Positively Osceola News Today, Osceola County's Leading and Trusted Source For Local News

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 2024

Cuisine and Culture: Taste of Kissimmee Coming to Kissimmee Lakefront Park Ruby Plaza Friday Night Find Your Furr-Ever Valentine at Osceola County Animal Services, During Commissioner Arrington’s February’s $14 Adoption Promotion

Valencia College, Osceola County School Graduate Faith-Christina Duncan: Challenge Accepted!

St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce’s New ‘CoLab’ Coworking Space to Bridge the Gap for Small Businesses

City of Kissimmee, KUA, Toho Water to Honor Past Employees at the Annual Employee Memorial Service For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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Minutes from Home.

A Lifetime of Healing.

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.

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

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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!

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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

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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.

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Osceola School District’s

KICK-OFF TO KINDERGARTEN EVENTS!

I’M GOING TO

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 at Osceola

2.29.24

3.5.24

High School 5:30-7:30 p.m.

at Poinciana High School 5:30-7:30 p.m.

at St. Cloud High School 5:30-7:30 p.m.

For the following schools:

For the following schools:

For the following schools: Canoe Creek K-8 East Lake Elementary Harmony Community School Hickory Tree Elementary New “CC” K-8 located at Sunbridge Lakeview Elementary Michigan Avenue Elementary Narcoossee Elementary Neptune Elementary Partin Settlement Elementary St. Cloud Elementary

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

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

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.

Looking for a convenient way to save?

Check out the Taste of Kissimmee Lanyard, available until 5pm at Big John’s Rockin’ Barbecue. $25 at Big John’s until noon Friday, or $30 at the gate.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/42QrAop For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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NEWS

Find Your Furr-Ever Valentine at Osceola County Animal Services, During Commissioner Arrington’s February’s $14 Adoption Promotion Osceola County Animal Services, currently at capacity, is urging the community to adopt pets instead of shopping for them. In a response to the shelter’s pressing need, Osceola County District 3 Commissioner Brandon Arrington has spearheaded a month-long initiative, the $14 Furrever Valentine Promotion, running through February. This initiative aims to find loving homes for the shelter’s animals at a reduced adoption fee, making it easier for residents to welcome a new furry family member.

Commissioner Arrington’s personal commitment to animal welfare, highlighted by his own history of adopting pets, underscores the importance of this campaign. By adopting during this promotion, community members can provide a forever home to pets in need, alleviate the shelter’s overcrowding, and embrace the joy of pet companionship.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3uK6Sdf

Valencia College, Osceola County School Graduate Faith-Christina Duncan: Challenge Accepted!

Faith-Christina Duncan is a beaming, glowing, 4-foot-8-inch bundle of positive energy, and is a graduate of Osceola County Schools and Valencia College!

She’s hard-working, happy, and determined to succeed. Yet, when Faith-Christina Duncan was born, doctors reluctantly told her parents that they were sorry to inform the couple that the baby had Down Syndrome.

Mike and Nancy-Carole Duncan didn’t blink.

Instead, they embraced Faith-Christina and got to work – arranging appointments with neurologists, physical therapists, and cardiologists (who would be needed to repair the holes in her heart) to begin helping Faith-Christina overcome any obstacle that stood in her way.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OU3MdE For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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NEWS St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce’s New ‘CoLab’ Coworking Space to Bridge the Gap for Small Businesses The St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce has announced its newest initiative, CoLab @ the Chamber, a new coworking component of the Chamber Small Business program. This initiative is designed to bolster the growth, success, and operational efficiency of small businesses within the community, and represents a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

CoLab @ the Chamber offer resources and networking small businesses need to thrive with monthly subscription plans available to both members and non-members.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3woARI9

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 For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/42pCTDG

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NEWS 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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OC87Su

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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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4bqkJ9i

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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

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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.

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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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3SybHy4

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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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/42ioNUT Find your

at Osceola County Animal Services www.OsceolaCountyPets.com

During the month of February, All new adoptions receive a complimentary pet carrier.

PET ADOPTION is just $14

(while supplies last)

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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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3uBKId2

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NEWS

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 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 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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4bpOUgK

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NEWS Experience Whiskey In The Cloud Craft Spirits Festival 2024: St. Cloud’s Premier Craft Spirits Festival Coming in March 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.

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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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VISIT OSCEOLA Exploring Osceola County’s Natural Trails and Spaces: A Paradise for Avid Runners, Walkers, and Kayakers 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.

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NEWS

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.

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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 MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48si2Bk

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OSCEOLA BUSINESS REFERRAL SERVICE

Making Business Better, Together

OBRS.NET

INJURY LAW Draper Law: Which 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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NEWS 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.

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HEALTH

Kenny Tello, LCSW Wellness and Resilience Orlando Health

Orlando Health: 5 Ways to Increase Optimism and Reduce Anxiety Every Day

remember we simply have greater access to bad news.

Anxiety is increasing due to overexposure to news and social media. This causes people to assume that only bad events are taking place in the world. At the same time, we are constantly looking at our friends’ posts of amazing experiences.

This creates a sense that bad news is happening all of the time while only good is happening to those we know.

Except life doesn’t look quite like that. It is helpful to

CHANGING THE STORY Here are five strategies to help counteract the effects of negative experiences, whether they are happening to you or someone else: 1. Change the story. When we worry, we are overwhelmed, often coming up with a story not based on true events, telling ourselves it’s not going to work out or coming up with the worst-case scenario. By focusing on a specific story, our other thoughts follow suit and allow for it to feel like the truth. It’s up to us to flip the script. Choose a more realistic story instead. Rehearse it. Share it. Make it visible. Remind yourself of it always.

2. Find the other track in tough situations. People often think of life in terms of seasons.

We assume good and bad scenarios cannot happen at the same time. When we deal with losses or difficult situations, we are waiting for the season to be over. Look at life as two sets of train tracks instead, the good and the bad running side by side.

Sometimes when great events are happening to us, something else comes along and messes it up. This also can happen when we’re struggling. Look toward the other track — the good one — and you’re likely to find a reason to be thankful in the midst of all else.

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NEWS 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.

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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’s Mardi Gras 2024: Let the Good Times Roll! Universal Orlando Resort kicks off International Flavors of Carnaval

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.

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IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS

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.

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POSITIVELY DELICIOUS 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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POSITIVELY DELICIOUS 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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Tropical Harmony: Florida Pink Shrimp and Citrus Ceviche Delight Discover the positively delicious Cooked Florida Pink Shrimp and Citrus Ceviche, a vibrant blend of fresh, succulent pink shrimp and zesty citrus. This refreshing dish captures the essence of Florida’s coastal flavors, offering a light yet satisfying taste experience that’s perfect for any seafood lover.

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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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