Cuisine and Culture: Taste of Kissimmee Coming to Kissimmee Lakefront Park Ruby Plaza Friday Night
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 2024
Ramsey, Team USA Fly by Cuba at Osceola Heritage Park’s Silver Spurs Arena, 100-79
Investment with Osceola
Buyback
Valencia College Unveils State-of-the-Art Precision Optics Lab , Honors Inaugural Graduating Class Maximize Your HVAC
Air’s February Repair
Program
Employee
City of Kissimmee, KUA, Toho Water to Honor Past Employees at the Annual
Memorial Service
You’re not just our patient. You’re our neighbor. For more than 50 years, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has been honored to provide exceptional care for the Osceola County community we proudly call home. And because it’s your home, too, you deserve trusted healthcare within reach, so we can foster a partnership focused on health and wellness — together. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/StCloud
choose well. Minutes from Home. A Lifetime of Healing.
IN & AROUND OSCEOLA
Positively Osceola with St. Cloud Bulldogs Coach Cory Aun on Their 14th consecutive Orange Belt Conference Girls’ Weightlifting Win
Positively Osceola with Tohopekaliga lifter Alexa Woodman joins Positivley Osceola to Talk Her Performance OBC Championships
LIVE with Andrew Sullivan, Public Informations Officer for City of St. Cloud, and Bill Litton, Director of Emergency Management for Osceola County
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
IN & AROUND OSCEOLA
LIVE with Osceola Arts’ Marilyn CortesLovato and mural artist Monchy Rodriguez in Kissimmee
Positively Osceola with Jamie, who brought her kids to City of St. Cloud’s MLK Day of Service at Hopkins Park to teach them about the importance of giving
LIVE as the Central Florida Human Trafficking Task Force hosts the Red Sand Project at the Osceola County Administration Building
LIVE as St. Cloud High School Ladies Golfer, Cayden Challacombe, signs her letter of intent to play at Eastern Florida State College
LIVE at NeoCity as Representatives from the DoD, County, State of Florida and industry partners officially launch the collaboration as Osceola County spearheads the nation’s reshoring of semiconductor advanced packaging manufacturing
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS
LIVE with Osceola County Fair (KVLS)
General Manager Joel Rose and Tammi Shull Madison of Pantry Planters
January 16th, 2024
LIVE with Jim Kenney, representing the Central Florida Human Trafficking Task Force
January 12th, 2024
LIVE with the City of Kissimmee’s Parks and Rec’s Michael and Joshua
January 9th, 2024
LIVE with Keith Ronan and Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office
December 22nd, 2023
LIVE with Silver Spurs Riding Club Quadrille Chair, Ashley Fluke.
December 21st, 2023
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
VIDEOS ON DEMAND
Wild Florida Albino Alligators
Wild Florida is one of Central Florida’s must-see gems. Take a look at their unique Albino Alligators! Schedule your next Animal Encounter at Wild Florida. WildFl.com
Positively Osceola, Making a Positive Difference in and Around Osceola County!
Stay informed and inspired with Positively Osceola, your 24/7 go-to news in and around Osceola County! Positively Osceola shares the latest updates on local events, community achievements, and inspiring stories. From heartwarming features to breaking news, PO has you covered. Experience the power of positivity with Positively Osceola!
Buckle Up for Action: Demolition Derby to return to the 80th Osceola County Fair in February!
Get ready for heart-pounding excitement at the Osceola County Fair, coming back from February 9-18, 2024! Mark your calendars for February 11, when the adrenaline-fueled Demolition Derby returns - it’s a crowd favorite you won’t want to miss!
Don Schmidt Roofing
Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the finest materials and craftmanship.
Osceola County Fair
The Osceola County Fair (KVLS), the largest annual event in Osceola, is set to make a grand return for its 80th edition from February 9 to 18, 2024, at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee. The event once again promises to be a spectacular celebration for people of all ages.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
Osceola School District’s
KICK-OFF TO KINDERGARTEN
EVENTS!
Calling all our little learners! We can’t wait to see you in Kindergarten in August. All incoming kindergarteners and their parents/guardians are invited to attend any one of our three upcoming Kick-Off To Kindergarten regional events:
2.26.24
I’M GOING TO
2.29.24
3.5.24
For the following schools: For the following schools: For the following schools:
Boggy Creek Elementary
Central Avenue Elementary
Cypress Elementary
Flora Ridge Elementary
Highlands Elementary
Kissimmee Elementary
Mill Creek Elementary
Thacker Avenue
Elementary School for International Studies
Ventura Elementary
Osceola Virtual School
Bellalago K-8
Celebration K-8
Chestnut Elementary School for Science and Engineering
Deerwood Elementary
Island Village Elementary
Koa Elementary
Poinciana Academy of Fine Arts
Pleasant Hill Elementary
Reedy Creek Elementary
New “BB” K-8 - located in Knightsbridge
Sunrise Elementary
Westside K-8
Canoe Creek K-8
East Lake Elementary
Harmony Community School
Hickory Tree Elementary
New “CC” K-8located at Sunbridge
Lakeview Elementary
Michigan Avenue Elementary
Narcoossee Elementary
Neptune Elementary
Partin Settlement Elementary
St Cloud Elementary
at Osceola High School 5:30-7:30 p.m.
p.m.
at Poinciana High School 5:30-7:30
p.m.
at St. Cloud High School 5:30-7:30
Event Highlights Will Include: School Tables Highlighting Programs and Offerings Helpful School Department Information Information from Partners In Education
In Partnership With: For more information, contact Osceola School District’s Early Childhood Learning Center 407-870-4911
Valencia College Unveils State-of-the-Art Precision Optics Lab , Honors Inaugural Graduating Class
On Thursday, Valencia College, in partnership with Lockheed Martin, inaugurated its new Precision Optics Lab and celebrated the graduation of the inaugural class from Florida’s first optics technician program, a 15-week course that was launched in October 2023 to address the demand for skilled technicians in precision optics and photonics in Central Florida. Osceola County Manager Don Fisher, and Valencia College President Dr. Kathleen Plinske, spoke during the ceremony.
“Lockheed Martin has been one of Valencia’s strongest supporters since the college’s inception in 1967,” said Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College. “That partnership continues today, as Lockheed Martin continues to collaborate with Valencia College to develop and educate a skilled, talented local workforce – one that will pay dividends in this community for years to come.”
“Workforce development is very important for Central Florida. Valencia College and Lockheed Martin have collaborated for many years to develop programs such as the latest Optics Precision Technician accelerated skills training program,” said Joe Battista, vice president of Workforce, Career and Professional Education at Valencia College. “We thank all the partners involved and congratulate the first cohort of graduates.”
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
NEWS
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NEWS
Cuisine and Culture: Taste of Kissimmee Coming to Kissimmee Lakefront Park Ruby Plaza Friday Night
The City of Kissimmee Parks and Recreation Department will host its inaugural ‘Taste of Kissimmee’ at the scenic Kissimmee Lakefront Park Ruby Plaza on Friday night from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
This vibrant celebration will showcase Kissimmee’s rich cultural diversity and culinary excellence, offering attendees an immersive experience of live music, entertainment, and a positively sumptuous selection of food and drinks from local restaurants and eateries.
Taste of Kissimmee is a testament to the city’s mosaic of cultures and cuisines, inviting the community and visitors to enjoy an evening filled with delightful flavors and local charm. This event is sponsored by Experience Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority, and Mix 105.1.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/42QrAop
Ramsey, Team USA Fly by Cuba at Osceola Heritage Park’s Silver Spurs Arena, 100-79
Team USA rode the hot first-quarter shooting of Jahmi’us Ramsey to build a big lead and then cruise to a 100-79 win over Cuba, at Silver Spurs Arena in the opening round of qualifying for the 2025 FIBA Americup Basketball Tournament.
Ramsey, who plays professionally for Oklahoma City’s G-League team the Oklahoma City Blue, came out red hot in his Team USA international debut. He played in just six minutes in the first quarter but hit five of six shots taken – including a trio of three pointers in scoring 13 points and helping stake the United States to a 32-16 lead after one quarter.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3uGfPEx
more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
For
City of Kissimmee, KUA, Toho Water to Honor Past Employees at the Annual Employee Memorial Service
The City of Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority, and Toho Water Authority are set to host their annual Employee Memorial Service on Friday, March 8th, at 10:00 a.m. The ceremony will take place in front of Kissimmee City Hall, commemorating the dedication and service of past employees.
This annual event serves as a tribute to employees who have passed away, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, as well as those who have retired after years of faithful service. The focal point of the service is a permanent monument located on the grounds of City Hall, which serves as a reminder of the contributions made by these individuals and how their hard work, longevity, and dedication has paved the path for the growth and future of the City.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3woSIPp
Maximize Your HVAC Investment with Osceola
Air’s February Repair Buyback Program
In the twilight years of an air conditioning system, homeowners often grapple with the critical choice between repair or replacement. Opting incorrectly can lead to substantial financial outlay on a system on the brink of failure. During the month of February, Osceola Air is offering an innovative solution to this dilemma through its February Repair Buyback Program, designed to offer homeowners peace of mind and significant savings.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48nSghn
Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com NEWS
For more
NEWS
Celebrating Black History Month in Osceola County: A Tapestry of Culture and Community
February is the month set aside to celebrate Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements, history, and cultural richness of the African American community. This commemoration began in 1915, fifty years after the abolition of slavery, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a revered historian, established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Although the annual recognition is a welcomed one, the profound and extraordinary impact of the African American community on our nation, and notably in Osceola County, certainly warrants recognition and celebration every day, all year long.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
https://bit.ly/42pCTDG
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St. Cloud Celebrates Launch of New Innovative Mobile Food Pantry with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The City of St. Cloud held a ribbon cutting Thursday morning, along with the Osceola Council on Aging, for its new mobile food pantry, a refrigerated box truck that will assist those still experiencing food insecurity in the St. Cloud community.
“The City awarded a $103,000 Community Development Block Grant to our partners at the Osceola Council on Aging, to help them purchase this refrigerated truck, which enables them to continue providing this critical service to our residents,” said City Council Member Kolby Urban, who presided over the ribbon cutting.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
NEWS
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OC87Su
NEWS
Find Your Furr-Ever Valentine at Osceola County Animal Services, During February’s $14 Adoption Promotion
Osceola County District 3 Commissioner Brandon Arrington’s love of animals is manifesting with a month-long $14 adoption promotion with Osceola County Animal Services.
Arrington and his wife, Kristen, are proud parents of a 10-year-old pit bull they adopted. Brody is a happy dog. He wiggles his tail when he’s excited, which is often the case when he and his dad go for rides on Arrington’s skateboard. As Brody ages, he’s inclined to enjoy more relaxed activities such as long – and slow – walks. He’s partial to belly rubs and eating. Especially eating, Arrington notes.
Brody has brought such joy into the couple’s life that Arrington hopes that the FURREVER promotion in February will encourage other residents to help shelter pets find a forever home.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
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NEWS
Ignite Creativity This Summer with Osceola Arts!
This June, while schools take a break, Osceola Arts turns up the heat with its Summer Arts Camps at Valencia College’s Lake Nona and Poinciana Campuses, starting Monday, June 3rd, at 9 AM. Dive into a world where visual and performing arts meet, offering diverse camps tailored for the Central Florida community.
Whether you’re into painting, acting, or dancing, there’s a spot just for you!
Designed for kids aged 8-13, these camps provide a unique blend of learning and fun in a top-notch facility that sparks creativity. Each session concludes with a dazzling showcase, where students display their newfound skills. Witness the remarkable transformation and celebrate the achievements of these young talents.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/42NvIpm
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
SPORTS
By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola
Lady Bulldogs’ Courageous Comeback Falls Short in Regional Semifinals Against Wekiva
At the end of the day, it was matter of too little, too late.
The St. Cloud Lady Bulldogs basketball team fought back from a 19-point second half deficit, but came up short – dropping a 66-58 decision to the Wekiva Mustangs in an FHSAA Class 6A, Region 2 semifinal game on Monday night.
With the loss, St. Cloud finishes with a 22-7 record; while Wekiva (18-10) will meet Horizon (19-6) on Thursday night with a trip to the state Final Four on the line.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3SKxWkM
Osceola Kowboys, Harmony Longhorns Dominate District Wrestling Tournaments
As expected, Harmony and Osceola dominated their respective district wrestling tournaments on Saturday and each will send large contingents to next week’s regionals – the final stop before the FHSAA State Championships at Silver Spurs Arena, Feb. 29-Mar. 2.
Long a state power, the Kowboys served notice they would be seeking another Top 5 finish at states by dominating the field at the Class 3A, District 5 Tournament. Osceola (274 points), easily outdistanced Lakeland’s George Jenkins (190.5) for the team title.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
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NEWS
Celebrate Spring at St. Cloud’s Spring Fest!
Join the City of St. Cloud for a day of fun and festivity at the Spring Fest, happening at Hopkins Park on Saturday, March 30, from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Located at 620 E. 17th Street, this family-friendly event promises an array of activities for everyone to enjoy. Dive into the excitement with bounce houses, savor the flavors from a variety of food trucks, explore unique finds from vendors, get creative with crafts, and enjoy fun-filled games.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3SybHy4
NEWS
Empowering Tomorrow’s Voters: Elections Office Engages
Osceola County High School Seniors in Voter Registration
The Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Office is visiting high schools in and around Osceola County helping seniors to register to vote. This initiative is focused on empowering senior students by providing them with the resources and guidance needed to register to vote. Through this educational outreach, the elections office is not only facilitating the registration process, but also fostering civic engagement among the youth of Osceola County.
Every year outreach staff visits each public high school in the county one to two times to reach all their senior students. At these visits, elections outreach staff help eligible students to register to vote and educate all students on how, when, where and why to vote. Students wishing to register to vote need to know either their Florida Driver License/Permit/ID card number or the last 4 digits of their Social Security Number.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/42ioNUT During the month of February, PET ADOPTION is just $14 Find your at Osceola County Animal Services www.OsceolaCountyPets.com All new adoptions receive a complimentary pet carrier. (while supplies last)
NEWS
Beat the Heat Before It Hits With Osceola Air: Essential AC Maintenance Tips for Florida’s Winter Months
As the cooler months of February grace Florida, it’s the perfect time to consider preventative maintenance for your air conditioning units. This crucial step ensures your system is primed to handle the intense heat that the Sunshine State is renowned for in the warmer months. Preventative maintenance is not just a recommendation; it’s essential for the longevity and efficiency of your AC unit.
Routine checks and servicing during Florida’s winter months can prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need cooling the most. According to Osceola Air, preventive maintenance is key to ensuring your air conditioning is ready to combat the sweltering heat that inevitably returns. Moreover, maintaining your air conditioner, especially tasks like routinely replacing or cleaning its filters, is the most important maintenance task to ensure efficiency.
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Orlando Health Network launched innovative care models in 2023
Orlando Health Network launched various innovative health care models in 2023 to enhance the quality of patient care. Since its inception in 2013, the network has generated more than $165 million in savings to patients, payers, employers and taxpayers, according to the Clinically Integrated Network Value Report 2023.
The recently released 2023 report details how the network, part of the Orlando Health hospital system, launched multiple initiatives during 2023 to ensure that the nearly 300,000 patients it serves in Central and West Florida receive timely, efficient, and effective medical care from more than 6,600 multispecialty providers.
“Our 2023 Clinically Integrated Network Value Report showcases our myriad innovative care models, clinical and quality programs, and strong performance across value-based arrangements in the past year,” said Erik Walker, MD, board chairman, Orlando Health Network. “Now serving nearly 300,000 patients, Orlando Health Network achieved notable accomplishments for the tenth year in a row through the thoughtful collaboration with our dedicated providers and health system partners. On behalf of our network, I am once again humbled to share these efforts and their accompanying achievements.”
Initiatives launched by the network in 2023 include the Orlando Health Support Team for Aftercare and Resources Outpatient Centers, which are designed to effectively manage the post-hospitalization and advanced pharmacy needs of patients.
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NEWS
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Osceola School District Announces Finalists for
Prestigious Teacher of the Year and School-Related Employee of the Year Awards
The list of candidates for the Osceola School District’s Teacher of the Year and School-Related Employee of the Year awards has been narrowed down to the top ten finalists in each category. These exceptional individuals were each greeted with an unexpected visit from Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff, who personally delivered the exciting announcement.
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NEWS
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NEWS
Rolling Out Safety: Osceola County Sheriff’s Office on Wheels Mobilizes for Senior Community Care
Sheriff Marcos Lopez and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office have once again rolled out their “O.C.S.O. on Wheels” mobile office. Aptly named “Keeping Our Seniors Safe,” this innovative mobile unit is dedicated to engaging with and serving the senior members of our community.
The Sheriff Lopez’s mobile office’s mission is to bring education and resources directly to the doorstep of Osceola County’s seniors. The mobile office is set to visit various assisted living communities, providing a unique opportunity for residents to interact face-to-face with dedicated deputies. These interactions aim to foster a deeper understanding of the safety initiatives and agency programs available to them, including vital projects like Project Lifesaver and Project E.A.S.E.: Emergency Access Safe Entry.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
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Mark your calendars for an unforgettable local experience at the Whiskey In The Cloud Craft Spirits Festival 2024, happening on Saturday, March 2, in the heart of downtown St. Cloud, from 6-9 pm.
The event, now in its second year, promises an evening filled with the finest whiskey and spirits, captivating live music, local restaurants, food trucks filled with positively delicious fare, fine cigars, and the warmth of community spirit, all bundled into one ticket.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
NEWS
2024:
Festival Coming
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3UKdfYv
Experience Whiskey In The Cloud Craft Spirits Festival
St. Cloud’s Premier Craft Spirits
in March
NEWS
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital doctor performs first laparoscopic nephrectomy – kidney removal surgery
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital’s Dr. Sarat Sabharwal performed the hospital’s first laparoscopic nephrectomy this month, a milestone for patient care.
Nephrectomy, or removal of a kidney, may be necessary when a patient has recurrent kidney infections, irreversible damage, long-term obstruction or tumors that indicate kidney cancer. Laparoscopic nephrectomy – a minimally invasive approach – uses tiny incisions in the abdomen that result in decreased blood loss, less pain, plus a shorter hospital stay and recovery. Many patients are able to return to full activity within 3-4 weeks after surgery.
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https://bit.ly/3vbUsLi
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VISIT OSCEOLA
Osceola County is a hidden gem for avid runners, walkers, and kayakers seeking a combination of physical fitness and natural beauty. Although the county is one of the fastest growing regions in Florida, its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and wellmaintained trails, offer a haven for those who want to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through ten of Osceola County’s finest locations where you can experience invigorating runs and leisurely walks amid breathtaking natural landscapes.
• Shingle Creek Regional Park:
Shingle Creek Regional Park, often referred to as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. This vast park offers a network of scenic trails suitable for running and walking. The trails wind through lush forests, along the banks of Shingle Creek, and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an intense trail run, Shingle Creek has something for everyone.
• Celebration Lakeside Park:
Celebration, a charming community in Osceola County, and known to many as the ‘Town that Disney built,’ boasts Celebration Lakeside Park, a beautiful destination for runners and walkers. The park features a loop trail around Lake Rianhard, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The flat terrain and wellpaved paths make it an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or a brisk run.
MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3PrqVVu
READ
Exploring Osceola County’s Natural Trails and Spaces: A Paradise for Avid Runners, Walkers, and Kayakers For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
Positively
Osceola Unveils
Dynamic
Business Support Initiative, ‘Positively Osceola Plus’
In a move set to revolutionize local business growth and community engagement, Positively Osceola, the leading hub for local news, sports, and events in Osceola County, has unveiled an innovative initiative known as ‘Positively Osceola Plus.’
‘Positively Osceola Plus’ is designed to extend a helping hand to businesses, organizations, and individuals in and around Osceola County, fostering their capacity to connect with target audiences and achieve their marketing and promotional aspirations.
Recognized as Osceola County’s foremost source for trusted information, Positively Osceola is leveraging its extensive reach and credibility to provide an enhanced platform for businesses looking to expand their marketing presence and connect meaningfully with their communities.
Positively Osceola Plus offers a comprehensive suite of support services tailored to meet the diverse needs of local enterprises. From strategic marketing guidance and targeted advertising to community outreach initiatives, the program aims to empower businesses and organizations in amplifying their visibility and achieving their goals.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com NEWS
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3TntE4v
HEALTH
Orlando Health: Understanding Heart Disease in Women
Heart disease is often thought of as a “man’s disease,” but it is the leading cause of death in women in the United States, with one in every five women dying from this illness. Even without symptoms, women can still be at-risk for heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, almost 64 percent of women who die suddenly from coronary heart disease have no symptoms. That’s why it is important for women to be aware of the risks and take preventive steps. For those with heart disease, it is vital to take good care to minimize the progression of the illness. READ
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MORE,
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Making Business Better, Together
OSCEOLA BUSINESS R E F E R R A L S E R V I C E OBRS.NET
INJURY LAW
vehicles are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents?
Sadly, serious and fatal accidents take place on a daily basis in Central Florida. These crashes can happen in a number of ways and can be caused by not following traffic laws, inexperience, intoxication, distracted driving, fatigue, and medical issues.
Statistics show that fatal car accidents can often occur based on the type of vehicle. You may think that sports cars are most likely to be in crashes due to their speed and performance. However, according to the NHTSA, it’s the everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs on the roadways that are involved more frequently in serious or even deadly accidents, with sedans and pickup trucks accounting for more than three-quarters of fatal accidents. If you drive out on the roadways, here’s what you need to know about which vehicles have been involved in many of the crashes.
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Law: Which
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Draper
Beware of online scams when searching for home weatherization assistance programs
The Osceola Council on Aging is warning the community to beware of fraudulent websites while searching for home weatherization programs. These websites ask people to fill out online forms, which are then used to steal the applicant’s personal information. Unfortunately, when a victim of this malicious fraud attempts to contact the company, they receive no response or support.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com NEWS
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HEALTH
Arvind R. Murali, MD Hepatology Orlando Health
The scary truth is that you can experience liver failure and need a transplant without drinking a drop of alcohol. But the good news is that you can significantly lower your chances of this happening by making good choices now with your diet and exercise.
DANGEROUS LIVER CONDITIONS
Metabolic dysfunctionassociated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a state of chronic inflammation of the liver. This can cause progressive damage to your liver, eventually resulting in scarring of the liver (called cirrhosis).
MASH is a more serious stage of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). MASH is defined as a condition in which:
• Your liver contains fat in at least 5 percent of liver cells
• You drink minimal amounts of alcohol
• You are not on any medications that cause fat accumulation in the liver
• You have at least one cardio-metabolic risk factor
Don’t be confused if you’ve heard of these conditions with other names. MASH was recently renamed from non-alcohol related steatohepatitus (NASH), and MASLD was previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
SYMPTOMS OF MASH
Most patients with MASH have no symptoms until their condition worsens to cirrhosis or liver failure. For the few who do have symptoms, it is fatigue or discomfort in the right upper abdomen.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3wpLx9w
Orlando Health: Lower Your Risk of Liver Failure Now For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com
Elevate Your Child’s Learning Experience
With Pre-K through 8th Grade Creative
Inspiration Journey School in St. Cloud
As the educational landscape continues to evolve in and around Osceola County, parents are seeking more than just a conventional schooling experience for their children. They seek environments that foster individual growth, creativity, and a sense of community. Creative Inspiration Journey School (CIJS), a tuition-free Pre-K through 8th grade public charter school located in St. Cloud, has emerged as a beacon of innovative education, offering an unparalleled learning journey for students.
For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com NEWS
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/47Qghym
Heads Up. We’re Here.
We know emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. With 14 ER locations throughout Central Florida, we’re ready to provide expert emergency care if you’re facing one. No matter which one you choose, you’ll find a place where chaos meets calm and uncertainty finds answers. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/ER
IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS
Savor the Spectacle: Culinary Canvas at EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts
Art comes to life through February 19th as EPCOT International Festival of the Arts transforms Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, into a vibrant canvas of imagination. This spectacular event invites guests to immerse themselves in the world of artistry and creativity in an array of forms:
1. Culinary Delights: The festival is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide range of vibrant and artistically presented dishes. Each plate is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, showcasing the intersection of culinary arts and visual aesthetics.
2. Music and Performances: A highlight of the festival is the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series. Guests can experience the magic of Disney’s Broadway productions through enchanting performances that bring the energy and emotion of theater to EPCOT.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3U6yEe7
Universal Orlando Resort’s seasonal celebration, Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, begins Saturday, February 3 and runs daily through Sunday, April 7. The fanfavorite event returns to Universal Studios Florida with an expansive menu of sweet, savory and spicy dishes inspired by New Orleans favorites and iconic Carnaval flavors from around the globe, a dazzling Mardi Gras parade where guests can catch tons of beads, live concerts by top names in music on select nights – including recent addition, breakout pop sensation Nessa Barrett – and more.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ulPw6n
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&
For
Media
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the Good Times Roll! Universal
kicks off International Flavors of Carnaval
Universal’s Mardi Gras 2024: Let
Orlando Resort
Island H2o Water Park Unveils 2024 Season Lineup With Spring Break Bash
Island H2O Water Park has announces its 2024 season opening, set to kickoff on March 8. To celebrate, the park will kick off with a Spring Break Bash, March 14-23, inviting thrill-seekers of all ages to join in the aquatic adventure.
The Spring Break Bash at Island H2O Water Park will feature a multitude of exciting activities, including daytime contests with enticing prizes, opportunities for guests to score double points redeemable for exclusive park perks, captivating movies on the wave pool every Thursday from 3 to 5 pm, and delightful Family Foam parties on Friday and Saturday from 12 to 2 pm. Additionally, a DJ will spin the latest tunes every Friday and Saturday from 2 to 4 pm and interact with the crowds with HulaHoop contents and trivia, ensuring non-stop entertainment throughout the event.
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SeaWorld
Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival Sets Sail on a Taste Adventure Until May 19, 2024
Oceans of flavor and fun are waiting at SeaWorld Orlando during its 2024 Seven Seas Food Festival. From foodies to families, everyone will find tasty delights among more than 200 distinct offerings. Revitalize your taste buds as you share this welcoming, open-air experience on select dates February 2 – May 19, 2024.
Explore more than 50 fresh global cuisine choices to pair with over 75 wine and cocktail selections and 75 craft beers. It will be easy to sample your way around the world with exciting flavors and local craft beers, plus live performances.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/479joAl
IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS
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Tropical Breeze Chicken Sandwich
Indulge in the positively delicious Florida Roasted Chicken Sandwich, a culinary masterpiece that brings the essence of the Sunshine State to your plate. Each sandwich is crafted with succulent, perfectly roasted chicken, then layered with your favorite toppings to create a uniquely satisfying experience. This sandwich isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful journey through Florida’s rich, diverse flavors, sure to please any palate.
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Florida Fusion: Squash and Tomato Gratin
Indulge in the positively delicious flavors of the Sunshine State with Florida Squash and Tomato Gratin. This vibrant dish is a celebration of Florida’s bountiful harvest, combining the sweetness of locally-grown squash with the juiciness of ripe tomatoes. Whether served as a sumptuous side or as a vegetarian main course, it’s sure to add a splash of Floridian charm to any meal.
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The Floridian Feast: A Beef Meatball Sandwich Extravaganza
Savor the positively delicious Florida Beef Meatball Sandwich, a flavorful tribute to the Sunshine State. Juicy, seasoned beef meatballs pair perfectly with a zesty homemade marinara sauce, all nestled in a fresh sub roll. Topped with melted cheese, each bite offers a delightful blend of traditional flavors and culinary innovation, making it a must-try for anyone craving a taste of Florida.
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Sunshine State Snapper: Crispy Florida Fish with Watermelon and Sweet Chili Fusion
Savor the positively delicious Fried Florida Snapper with Watermelon and Sweet Chili, where golden, crispy snapper meets the refreshing sweetness of watermelon, topped with a tantalizing sweet chili sauce. This dish is a symphony of flavors and textures, embodying the essence of Florida’s coastal cuisine in every bite. A true delight for the senses!
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Sunshine Harvest: One Pan Florida Romaine Salad
Discover the positively delicious taste of this One Pan Florida Romaine Salad, a simple yet stunning blend of fresh Florida romaine, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Each ingredient shines in this easy-to-prepare dish, offering a burst of sunshine in every bite. It’s the perfect combination of health and flavor, crafted to delight your palate!
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Sunshine Harvest: Roasted Florida Vegetable Ratatouille
Dive into the positively delicious Roasted Florida Vegetable Ratatouille, a dish that celebrates the bounty of Florida’s gardens. This ratatouille features a medley of fresh, locally-sourced vegetables, each roasted to perfection to bring out their natural sweetness and robust flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience of Florida’s agricultural richness, served up in a heartwarming, nourishing dish.
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