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of Osceola Magic Basketball and Marvel Magic at Osceola Heritage Park Tonight!

Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer to Host Drive-thru Easter Meal Distribution Event

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Osceola Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto Announces 2024’s Operation Green Light Initiative

Universal Hosts Celebration with Exclusive Treats, March 15-April 30!

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

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

LIVE as the St Cloud Little League Season Officially Opens

LIVE at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new K-8 school in Osceola County in the Kindred Development

LIVE at the Osceola County Fair with the Burn the Jukebox band

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

LIVE with Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry at her Ice Cream Social Community Update event in Celebration

LIVE at Osceola County Animal Services with Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington and Miss Silver Spurs Riley DeRosa, her court and Rodeo Queens from around the U.S. and Canada

LIVE at the Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade in St. Cloud

LIVE as City of St. Cloud held a ribbon cutting for its new mobile pantry program, managed by Osceola Council On Aging

LIVE at the Kissimmee Police Department’s Annual Award Ceremony at the Kissimmee Civic Center

ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS

LIVE with Attorney Charlie Draper

February 21st, 2024

LIVE with City of St. Cloud’s Strategic Initiatives Administrator Abismael Abreu

February 15th, 2024

LIVE with Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington and his dog Brody

February 7th, 2024

LIVE with Silver Spurs Quadrille Marshal Ashley Fluke and District 5 Osceola County Commissioner Ricky Booth

February 2nd, 2024

LIVE with Demetrius Chappell, St. Cloud Police Departments Lone Ranger

January 30th, 2024

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!

St. Cloud’s Monthly Park Pop-Up

Meet Sami the Sandhill Crane at St. Cloud’s next Monthly Park Pop-Up on March 2nd at Ted Broda Memorial Park, located at 4499 Michigan Avenue. Enjoy awesome bounce houses, surprise activities, and fantastic giveaways, making the day even more memorable.

Don Schmidt Roofing

Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the finest materials and craftmanship.

Paint the Cloud Green Parade

St. Cloud will host their annual Paint the Cloud Green Light Up Parade on Saturday, March 16th from 7:30PM to 11PM. This year’s event is presented in partnership with Experience Kissimmee, OUC, Toho Water Authority, and Advent Health.

NEWS

42nd Street” Opens TONIGHT at Osceola Arts: A Broadway Spectacular Awaits in Kissimmee!

Immerse yourself in the enchantment and excitement of classic Broadway as “42nd Street” makes its grand opening tonight at Osceola Arts in Kissimmee and will run on select dates through Sunday March 31. This beloved musical, known for its captivating charm and the allure of 1930s New York, promises an unforgettable evening of dance, music, and theatrical magic. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the arts or seeking a unique night out, don’t miss the chance to witness this spectacular showcase of talent and creativity.

“42nd Street” tells the captivating story of a wide-eyed young chorus girl who is thrust into the spotlight, becoming an overnight sensation. It’s a classic tale of ambition, love, and the quintessential Broadway success story, brought to life with laughter, dance, and heartwarming moments. Audiences can expect a spectacle of showstopping tunes that will have everyone’s feet tapping to the rhythm of Broadway’s golden age.

In addition to the mesmerizing performances, Osceola Arts is proud to offer an Audio Described performance on Friday, March 29 at 7:30 PM, and an American Sign Language-interpreted performance on Saturday, March 30 at 2:00 PM. These special performances ensure that everyone can enjoy the magic of “42nd Street,” highlighting Osceola Arts’ commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

NEWS

Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer to Host Drive-thru Easter Meal Distribution Event Wednesday March 27 at 10am

Osceola County residents are in for a treat this Easter season with Commissioner Viviana Janer’s Easter Meal Distribution event. Set to take place on Wednesday, March 27, at 10 a.m., this Osceola County drive-thru event promises to spread joy and support to the community during the festive holiday.

Held at Archie Gordon Memorial Park, located at 420 Buenaventura Blvd in Kissimmee, the event is specially designed for Osceola County residents. Attendees can look forward to receiving a delicious fresh ham along with other essential ingredients for a delightful Easter meal.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Vcg7Om

A Splash Through Time: SeaWorld’s Monumental 60th Year Festivities Begin March 21st!

SeaWorld is set to commemorate an extraordinary milestone this year, marking 60 years of captivating experiences, educational animal encounters, and thrilling attractions. To celebrate this significant anniversary, SeaWorld parks across the United States are gearing up for a grand celebration.

Since the beginning, SeaWorld has been at the forefront of offering guests unforgettable moments through its diverse marine-life themed attractions, award-winning rides, and shows. The slogan ‘So Much More to Sea’ encapsulates the essence of SeaWorld’s mission to provide enriching experiences that go beyond entertainment, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine life. As SeaWorld looks toward the future, it invites guests to embark on a nostalgic journey through its rich history and discover the innovations that continue to make it a unique and cherished destination.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/494cz44

Beginning today, embark on a magical journey at Universal Orlando Resort as the behemoth theme park hosts its inaugural Butterbeer™ Season! From March 15 through April 30, 2024, “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” invites fans and visitors alike to discover and enjoy Butterbeer in exciting, new ways. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the beloved wizarding beverage like never before during this special celebration.

Slam Dunks and Super Heroes: A Night of Osceola Magic Basketball and Marvel Magic at Osceola

Tonight, Osceola Heritage Park becomes a battleground not just for basketball but for superhero fanfare, as the Osceola Magic face off against the Long Island Nets in what promises to be an unforgettable evening. The event, dubbed Marvel Super Hero Night, is set to merge the thrills of professional basketball with the excitement of the Marvel Universe in a unique celebration that’s a first of its kind for fans of both worlds.

Celebrate Community and Fun at Kissimmee’s City-Wide Birthday Party!

The City of Kissimmee is inviting the community to an extraordinary birthday celebration like no other. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 23rd, and be part of Kissimmee’s 141st birthday bash from noon until 4 pm at the 2024 Kowtown Festival, proudly hosted by the City of Kissimmee, and sponsored by Experience Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority, Toho Water Authority, and K92.3.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Kissimmee Lakefront Park, this festival is poised to be a memorable community-wide birthday bash. Attendees can look forward to an array of attractions, including delectable food options, vibrant live music, a diverse range of vendors and exhibitors, and the KUA Kids Power Zone.

Osceola Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto Announces

2024’s Operation Green Light Initiative

To help those who may be struggling with suspended driver licenses due to unpaid fines & fees, Kelvin Soto Esq, Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, has announced the return of “Operation Green Light,” running from March 25 – April 20, 2024, in Osceola County.

“Operation Green Light,” is an opportunity for individuals who have overdue financial obligations in Osceola County court cases to save 20 percent in collection surcharges and to potentially have their driver’s license reinstated.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/43mMsnI

NEWS

Island Village Elementary School: Igniting Joy and Innovation in Creative Learning

Island Village Elementary School, a beacon of creativity and talent development, celebrated its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday March 1st, marking a significant milestone in the journey of educational excellence and innovation in Osceola County. The ceremony was a showcase of the school’s commitment to fostering an environment where every student can discover and develop their unique talents and abilities.

The ceremony included School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff, School Board Chair Heather Kahoun, School Board Member Terry Castillo, and Williams Company Project Manager Freddy Torres. Island Village Elementary’s own Principal Audie Confesor opened the ceremony, with Assistant Principal Patty Cummings extending a warm welcome to all attendees.

KUA Introduces Cutting-Edge Surge Protection for Enhanced Home Safety

KUA customers are now eligible to sign up for the utility’s new surge protection program, which can protect large appliances from electric surges.

The surge protection device is installed directly on the customer’s meter and diverts high-energy surges that can enter through electric power lines from coming into the home.

Homeowners insurance or renter’s insurance typically doesn’t cover appliance damage caused by electric surges, but customers now have the option to protect expensive appliances through KUA’s Surge Protection Program. Items covered under the program include appliances such as air conditioning equipment, refrigerators, washers and dryers, dishwashers, microwaves, and electric ranges.

NEWS

Get Ready to Paint the Cloud Green!

St. Cloud is gearing up for its muchanticipated annual celebration, the Paint the Cloud Green Light Up Parade, happening on Saturday, March 16, from 7:30 PM to 11 PM. This vibrant event lights up the night with an electrifying parade, culminating in an exhilarating street party featuring the dynamic sounds of the Paradigm Party Band.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, join us in downtown St. Cloud for an unforgettable evening of music, lights, and festivity. Immerse yourself in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with dazzling floats and spirited performances that promise to entertain attendees of all ages.

Interested in showcasing your creativity? Float registration is now open! Call 407-9577243 to secure your spot in this spectacular parade. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unique celebration.

NEWS

Osceola County Secures $4M for CuttingEdge Tech Library Initiative

Osceola County has received yet another significant technology boost with a $4 million grant from the Multipurpose Community Facilities Program (MCFP) to support the creation of the Osceola County Technology Library. This substantial investment is set to enhance community services directly, focusing on advancing work opportunities, educational access, and health monitoring for residents.

The planned facility represents an investment in empowering the local community with cutting-edge technology and resources. The $7.2 million library will encompass an 8,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art space located in District 2.

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

SPORTS

By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola

Osceola County Sports Roundup: Toho Baseball, Harmony

Flag Come Up With Statement Wins Ahead of Spring Break

The Harmony girls’ flag football team and the Tohopekaliga boys’ baseball team both made statements last week with big wins. With spring break arriving this week, many teams have elected to go dark but here is a look around high school sports in Osceola County this week.

BOYS’ VOLLYBALL

The sport is off this week for spring break, but Ettie Singleton’s St. Cloud Bulldogs is off to a fast start (2-0) with wins over Forest Lake and a 5-set win over perennial county power Celebration (1-1). Senior Will Stuphen had 16 kills in the season opener. Led by senior Cyus Cory (23 kills) and freshmen Brayden Buehler (24 kills) last week, Harmony split a pair of matches and found themselves sitting at 2-3 on the season. Gateway (1-1) split their opening matches, losing to Harmony but beating Liberty.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48Rw9Ah

At 6-1 Tohopekaliga High Continues to Build a Winning Baseball Program

First-year head coach Armando Perez says he not only wants to not only build one of the better baseball programs in Osceola County but he wants to be one of the better programs in Central Florida. His young team took a big step in the right direction on Friday night, taking a 3-1 decision over Lake Nona to push to their season record to a county-best 6-1.

“These are the type of games you want to win if you are trying to build a program and establish a winning culture,” Perez said. “They have had a winning program for a long time and we’re kind of the new kids on the block. Historically, these are not the type of games people expect us to win and it’s a victory we can build on.”

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

NEWS

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.

Help Now’s 6th Annual ‘Walk a Mile in Her Shoes’ Event to Unite Community in Solidarity Against Domestic Violence

Walking a mile in someone else’s shoes… not an easy thing to literally do, but on Wednesday night March 27th at 6 pm, Help Now of Osceola will host the 6th Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event where a group of men will walk down New York Avenue during the St. Cloud Monthly Market event, wearing heels, and hoping to raise awareness of domestic violence in the community. The goal is to get people listening, learning, thinking, and working together to help solve this terrible reality of abuse.

The walk will begin – in heels of course – at St. Cloud City Hall and will make its way down New York Avenue. This event is not only for men, though! Women and children are welcome and encouraged to join the walk to make a collective voice to end domestic and sexual violence in our community.

Here are some domestic violence statistics:

• Every two minutes another American is sexually assaulted.

• 1 out of every 6 American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime (14.8% completed, 2.8% attempted).

• 11.2% of all students experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation (among all graduate and undergraduate students).

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.

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.

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.

NEWS

2024 Caribbean Fusion Festival: A Tapestry of Culture, Cuisine, and Music at Kissimmee’s Lakefront Park

Experience the vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture at the 2024 Caribbean Fusion Festival, happening Sunday, April 28th, from 12 to 7 PM at Kissimmee’s Lakefront Park.

Dive into the heart of the Caribbean with an array of music, delectable food, unique crafts, and lively dance performances. This free daylong extravaganza is more than just a festival; it’s an experience that brings the community together to revel in the rich fusion of Caribbean cultures.

Whether you’re a lover of reggae, soca, or calypso music, a foodie eager to sample authentic Caribbean cuisine, or someone who appreciates handmade crafts and vibrant dance, there’s something for everyone.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3V2jUNW

KUA Celebrated for Exceptional Efforts in Community Power Restoration with FMEA Award

KUA was one of 16 Florida public power utilities recently recognized by the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) with a Restoring Communities Award. The award recognizes public power utilities for their exemplary power restoration efforts to their own communities and for providing or receiving mutual aid following significant weather events or when fellow public power communities were in need of extra assistance.

Florida public power utilities were honored for their efforts to restore power quickly and safely when called on in 2023. This not only included providing mutual aid assistance following the unprecedented landfall of Hurricane Idalia in the Big Bend region, but for other weather and non-weather-related emergencies. The 2023 Restoring Communities Awards also recognized public power utilities providing supplemental crews to fellow utilities for large-scale projects like infrastructure upgrades.

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.

NEWS

Zenith Academy Students Shine in Commissioner Grieb’s Bike Rack Design Challenge

Osceola County Commission Chair Cheryl Grieb’s annual bike rack competition once again showcased the remarkable creativity of local youth, this year highlighted by the innovative design submitted by Zenith Accelerated Learning Academy’s 10th graders, Ayden Berthel and Arthur Rodriguez.

This initiative not only fosters a culture of creativity and environmental consciousness among students but also demonstrates the practical impact of educational projects that blend learning with real-world application. The contributions from Ayden and Arthur exemplify how young individuals are capable of thinking critically and inventively to solve community needs, further proving the contest’s success in nurturing the next generation of problem solvers and designers.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/49KmfBM

Kissimmee Fire Department Earns Prestigious International Accreditation

The Kissimmee Fire Department has achieved an internationally renowned accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI).

This honor is the result of an exhaustive evaluation process, including in-depth peer reviews of the department’s policies, operational practices, safety protocols, and a comprehensive on-site assessment. The accreditation process culminated in a final review and approval by the CFAI Board on February 27, 2024, underscoring the department’s commitment to excellence and adherence to the highest standards of fire safety and emergency services.

CFAI is dedicated to helping fire and emergency service agencies worldwide achieve organizational and professional excellence. By voluntarily seeking accreditation, Kissimmee Fire Department has ensured that it stays up-to-date on industry standards, follows best practices, ensures continuous improvement, and keeps citizens and fire personnel safe.

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.

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

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.

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.

HEALTH

Ricardo J. Lopez, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology Orlando Health

Orlando Health: Understanding the Difference Between HIV and AIDS

WHAT IS HIV?

In 1991, when NBA basketball star Magic Johnson announced he was HIV-positive, the world was stunned and sad, fearing the athlete had a death sentence. Many people assumed HIV and AIDS were the same, and at that time, few treatments were available for AIDS.

Although HIV and AIDs are related, they are different illnesses, and treatment and prognosis for them are different as well.

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, destroys the white blood cells in your immune system that fight infection. Without those white blood cells, you are more at risk for infections and cancers. Although HIV can develop into AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), you can be HIV positive without having AIDS—in fact, with early and consistent treatment, people with HIV may never develop AIDS.

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

Making Business Better, Together

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.

HEALTH

Health information can overwhelm even those with advanced medical knowledge and literacy skills. Medical science is constantly evolving. Even doctors with specialties may need to expand their knowledge to best understand a condition they may be facing. It can be particularly difficult for patients to retain information when facing frightening news.

This is why health literacy is so important. Health literacy involves the degree to which patients can understand and process what’s happening with their health. It has nothing to do with education, reading level or socioeconomic status, but rather it’s about empowering patients to know what questions to ask and providing them with information in a format they can understand.

Orlando Health understands the challenges that patients face when trying to comprehend their medical diagnoses, and makes a point to train staff, the public, and patients on the most effective ways to communicate and retain new medical knowledge. Presentations, lunch-and-learns, and providing resources for patients are just some of the ways that Orlando Health improves health literacy at its locations and in its community.

It’s about empowering patients to know what questions to ask and providing them with information in a format they can understand.

Located on the campus of Orlando Regional Medical Center is The Clifford E. Graese Community Health Library. Established in 2000, the library helps patients, family members, health care professionals and community members better understand health care through reliable and reputable resources.

Professional librarians staff the library and materials are available in person, over the telephone, by email or can be delivered directly to a patient’s hospital room. Materials are customized to a patient’s specific medical condition.

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.

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

Explore the Untamed Heart of Florida and Exclusive Deals at Wild Florida’s Everglades Adventure

Tucked away at the headwaters of the iconic Florida Everglades near Lake Cypress, Wild Florida presents an unmatched adventure experience, just 15 minutes south of St. Cloud and conveniently close to the world-famous theme parks. This sanctuary is not just an attraction; it’s a journey into the heart of the Everglades, emphasizing wildlife connection, education, and conservation.

Guests are invited to delve into Florida’s unparalleled natural beauty with Wild Florida’s signature Everglades airboat tours. These U.S. Coast Guard-certified voyages offer a rare glimpse into a vibrant ecosystem, bringing visitors face-to-face with the Everglades’ most captivating inhabitants, including alligators, turkeys, wild hogs, eagles, and more. Each tour is a unique venture into the wilderness, ensuring no two experiences are alike.

Aquatica Orlando Welcomes Summer with Aloha to Summer Celebration March 30-June 2

Aquatica Orlando is set to kick off the summer season in grand style with its Aloha to Summer celebration. From March 30th to June 2nd, every Saturday and Sunday will offer visitors a unique opportunity to greet the summer with a splash. The event promises an array of festivities from morning till night, including the most extensive collection of waterslides in Orlando, mouthwatering specialty foods and beverages, and vibrant entertainment options.

IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS

Leprechauns in Orlando: A St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Seaworld

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Seaworld this year with a vibrant celebration from March 7 – 10 and 14 – 17, bringing the heart of Ireland to the streets. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Irish Market Plaza, where the streets come alive with green. At select times between 12:30 and 6 p.m., you’ll be entertained by lively performers, incredible stilt walkers, and more, all ready to share the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with you. This is a unique opportunity to experience the joy and culture of Ireland right in the heart of Orlando, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Pe5FlI

Climb, Cross, and Zip into Excitement with Gatorland’s Croc Rock Adventure

Gatorland Orlando, Florida’s premier park for reptilian adventures, is taking excitement to unprecedented heights with its newest attraction, the Croc Rock Adventure! This unique three-in-one interactive experience redefines thrill-seeking in the Sunshine State, offering visitors the chance to engage in climbing, bridge-crossing, and ziplining activities, all in one exhilarating sequence. Unlike any other climbing endeavor in Florida, the Croc Rock climbing wall astonishes with its lifelike replication of real rock. Local sandstone has been meticulously mimicked by artists who have carved natural handholds and crafted the structure to look incredibly natural.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4cb6vJv

POSITIVELY DELICIOUS

Garden Fresh: Florida Endive with Bacon, Tomato, and Egg

Dive into the positively delicious flavors of our Florida Curly Endive Salad, adorned with crispy bacon, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a perfectly poached egg. This masterpiece salad captures the essence of Florida’s freshest produce. Perfect for any meal, this salad offers a delightful taste experience that celebrates the bounty of Florida with every forkful.

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

Tropical Harvest: Florida Cauliflower Antipasto

Discover the positively delicious flavors of our Florida Cauliflower Antipasto Salad, a vibrant dish that showcases the best of Florida’s fresh produce. This refreshing salad features crisp cauliflower florets, masterfully combined in a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a flavorful side, this unique take on traditional antipasto offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, celebrating the garden’s bounty in every bite.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/43i8TKx

Seaside Feast: Peel & Eat Florida Shrimp with Smoky Cocktail Dip

Dive into the positively delicious world of Peel & Eat Florida Shrimp, perfectly paired with a homemade smoky cocktail sauce. This dish is a true celebration of Florida’s coastal bounty, offering succulent shrimp that’s both juicy and flavorful. Ideal for a festive gathering or a casual seaside meal, this dish promises a delightful taste adventure that seafood lovers will relish.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Tg8OT7

POSITIVELY DELICIOUS

Sizzling Sunshine: Seared Florida Teres Major Steak with Mushroom, Tomato, and Spinach

Indulge in the positively delicious Seared Florida Teres Major Steak with Mushroom, Tomato, and Spinach, a culinary delight showcasing the rich flavors of perfectly seared steak, complemented by a savory medley of sautéed mushrooms, ripe tomatoes, and fresh spinach. A must-try for steak enthusiasts seeking a unique and satisfying dining experience!

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Sunset Sizzle: Florida Sweet Pepper & Chicken Street Tacos

Indulge in the positively delicious flavors of Florida Sweet Pepper and Chicken Street Tacos. Each taco is a celebration of Florida’s vibrant produce, featuring tender, marinated chicken paired with the sweet crunch of locally-grown peppers. Perfect for a casual dinner, these street tacos offer a mouthwatering taste of Florida’s culinary best, ensuring a flavor-packed experience that will leave you craving more.

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Golden Harvest: Roasted Florida Sweet Corn Delight

Savor the positively delicious taste of Roasted Florida Sweet Corn, where each kernel bursts with the sundrenched sweetness of Florida’s fields. This simple yet exquisite side dish captures the essence of summer with its golden, roasted perfection, offering a taste that is both comforting and refreshingly sweet. It’s the perfect embodiment of Florida’s rich agricultural bounty, sure to delight corn lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

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be confident.

We provide trusted, quality care in your community. At Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, get access to care from an expert and compassionate clinical team for all of your healthcare needs — from emergency services to heart care, surgical services and more — all close to home. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/StCloud

choose well.