Positively Osceola Weekly - 24/7 Osceola News

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POSITIVELY OSCEOLA WEEKLY

Making a Positive Difference in and around Osceola County!

OUC, St. Cloud Break Ground on New Operations Center, First Net-Zero Florida Utility Campus Click Here to Read More: https://bit.ly/3il1ALC

Inside this issue

Valencia College’s New Mascot Voting Has Begun, and You Can Vote!

Page 39

Florida leads nation with over 1 million registered boating vessels, FWC announces Page 39

Battle at Narcoossee Mill Returns to St. Cloud’s Chisolm Park March 26-27 Page 40

Osceola Library System to Host English for Families at BVL Library beginning March 21st Page 11

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ENGLISHFOR

FAMILIES Buenaventura Lakes Library

6pm, Mondays March 21 May 23 English for Families is a series of interactive classes for parents and children (ages 6-12) that focuses on developing English vocabulary and literacy skills through strategic and fun story reading.

To Register: visit bit.ly/OLSEnglish

osceolalibrary.org

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407.742.8888

WEEKLY LIVESTREAMS Good Morning Osceola Mon, Wed, Fri at 7:30AM

In the Loop LIVE Tue at 6:00PM

Daybreak LIVE Wed at 9:00AM

Osceola Matters Thu at 6:00PM

In the Loop LIVE Sat at 8:00AM For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS Positively Osceola’s In the Loop LIVE with Guest: Logan Allen March 3rd, 2022

Positively Osceola’s Good Morning Osceola LIVE With Nolan Bottomley March 14th, 2022

Positively Osceola’s Good Morning Osceola LIVE With Krissi Hardy March 7th, 2022

Positively Osceola’s In the Loop LIVE with Guest: Brandon Arrington March 2nd, 2022

Positively Osceola’s In the Loop LIVE with Guest: Ansley Bo March 2nd, 2022

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

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IN & AROUND OSCEOLA LIVE at the Osceola County School District’s 2022 Education Awards

LIVE as OUC The Reliable One breaks ground on its St. Cloud Operations & Maintenance Center

LIVE with Jamie and Nancy at the Pups & Pints Celebration

LIVE with Christina Saintlouis at St. Cloud’s “A Community Day of Love”

LIVE at Cariños Cafe with KPD Chief O’Dell for “Coffee with a Cop”

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

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VIDEOS ON DEMAND 2022 Kowtown Festival at Kissimmee Lakefront Park Get ready for the City of Kissimmee Government’s big birthday bash at the 2022 Kowtown Festival on Saturday, March 19th from 12:00pm - 5:00pm at Kissimmee’s beautiful Lakefront Park. There will be delicious food, live music, the KUA kids zone, exciting games, and a large assortment of craft vendors you don’t want to miss.

The Mayor’s Minute with Nathan Blackwell The Mayor’s Minute with Nathan Blackwell, Mayor of the City of St. Cloud, Florida. The St. Cloud City Council recently approved an agreement to have Toho Water Authority begin management of the City’s utility operations. This agreement with Toho offers significant financial and operational benefits to the city and to customers.

Liberty University Wind Symphony’s Fire & Ice Concert

On Thursday, March 17th at 6:30 pm, the Liberty University Wind Symphony under the direction of Dr. Stephen Kerr, director of bands, will present their Fire & Ice concert on East Dakin Avenue in Historic Downtown Kissimmee on March 17th at 6:30pm. The free concert will be about one hour in length and the public is invited to attend.

Divinity: Works by local artist Patricia Cavazos

Osceola Arts will kick off Spring with a new visual arts exhibit called Divinity: Works by local artist Patricia Cavazos, through April 1st with a free art reception on Saturday, March 5th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

The exhibit “Divinity” is an abstract interpretation of the Aztec world’s creation and the gods behind it. For more information on works by Patricia Cavazos go to www.bycavazos.com.

Old Town’s Karaoke Nights Do you sing and wish you had a stage to show off your vocal talents? Or maybe you’re a little off-key but love to sing with friends? Then head out to Old Town in Kissimmee every Tuesday and Thursday night from 7pm to 11pm for FREE Karaoke on Trophy Row Stage next to Southern Breeze! You’ll be the star as you get up on stage and belt out your favorite hit songs from every generation.

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

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ENGLISHFOR

FAMILIES Buenaventura Lakes Library

6pm, los lunes 21 de marzo 23 de mayo English for Families es una serie de clases interactivas para padres e hijos (de 6 a 12 años) que se centra en el desarrollo del vocabulario en inglés y las habilidades de alfabetización a través de la lectura estratégica y divertida de historias.

Regístrese: bit.ly/OLSEnglish

osceolalibrary.org

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407.742.8888

MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE

Gov. DeSantis announces end of FSA testing, first state to implement education progress monitoring Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced that a legislative proposal has been passed that will end the common-core-based, end-of-year Florida Statewide Assessment (FSA) making room for the new Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (F.A.S.T) plan, which will monitor student progress and individual growth. In short, Florida Standards Assessments (FSA) will be eliminated in all Florida public schools.

Students in third through 10th grade will take English and math tests throughout the year.

The proposal is intended to reduce testing time by upwards of 75 percent, with the hope of benefiting both students and teachers. The idea is to make it possible for educators to track and receive real-time data that will better show where a student may need additional instructional help. The reference to real-time meaning the F.A.S.T. would make it possible for students to receive feedback in the current school year, not like the FSA method which typically provided testing results during summer break.

“We are here with legislators to officially announce the removal of the FSA from the state of Florida,” Governor DeSantis said. “Instead of having one major test at the end of the year, which provided no feedback to students before the summer came, we would do progress monitoring that would monitor progress throughout the school year; it will be shorter, it will be more individualized, and it will provide good feedback for students, teachers, and parents.”

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

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MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE Osceola Library System to Host English for Families at BVL Library beginning March 21st English for Families is a weekly family reading program designed for those whose native language is not English (ESOL).

This 10-week program will be offered on Mondays at 6 pm at the Buenaventura Lakes Library beginning March 21, 2022.

Families are encouraged to attend each of the 10 sessions to benefit fully from the curriculum.

In this fun and engaging weekly program, parents and children will explore and practice specific reading strategies using various children’s stories. Parents and children will also learn vocabulary and basic grammar to use at each session to help increase confidence and fluency.

Participating families that complete the full 10 weeks will receive two free books at the end of the last session. Registration is required for each week of the 10-week program. Click the link below to get started. The Library will reach out to confirm reservations. English for Families’ goal is to improve English as a Second Language reading strategies in both children and parents and develop fundamental literacy skills needed for everyday life. Research shows that when parents support good reading habits and get involved in early literacy practices, the child is much more likely to find reading success.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3szph8H

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NEWS

U.S. Senate passes bill to make Daylight Saving Time permanent The U.S. Senate has passed a bill that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent across the United States, that’s right – no more “falling back – or springing forward.”

The Sunshine Protection Act passed the Senate unanimously but still needs to clear the house, and then get a signature from the president. A sponsor of the bill, Florida Senator Marco Rubio said he’s not sure that the House will take up the measure, but “it’s an idea whose time has come.”

“You’ll see it’s an eclectic collection of members of the United States Senate in favor of what we’ve just done here in the Senate, and that’s to pass a bill to make Daylight Savings Time permanent,” said Rubio on the Senate floor. “Just this past weekend, we all went through that biannual ritual of changing the clock back and forth and the disruption that comes with it. And one has to ask themselves after a while why do we keep doing it?” “If we can get this passed, we don’t have to keep doing this stupidity anymore,” Rubio shared.

Lead Democratic sponsor Sheldon Whitehouse Senator from Rhode Island said, “this would give us a chance for Americans all across the country to be rid of fall back and make Daylights Savings Time permanent and to add a little sunlight into most people’s lives.”

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

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

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NEWS

St. Cloud to host an “egg-citing” event – a moonlight adult egg hunt!

The City of St. Cloud is putting together another – eggciting event… that’s right… it will be egg-citing! On Friday night April 8th from 7 pm – 10 pm at the Ranch at St. Cloud – located at 5452 Jones Road, St. Cloud’s Moonlight Adult Egg Hunt will take place, and it’s an event you’d have to be “cracked” not to attend.

There will be food and drinks for purchase, Egg Hunt Candy Filled Egg Prizes, a DJ for dancing, and loads of other fun and surprises.

The adult egg hunt will cost $15 per person and all participants must be 21 and older.

Please bring a flashlight and wear comfortable shoes.

For more info call 407.957.7243 or to register by April 1st go to webtrac.StCloud.org.

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NEWS

Celebrate Earth Day and “Tidy Up Toho” with County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb and the City of Kissimmee Celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 23rd from 9 am – 12 pm with Osceola County District 4 Commissioner Cheryl Grieb and the City of Kissimmee as they partner with the community to “Tidy Up Toho” – an Earth Day cleanup event!

For those who would like to take the cleanup process to the water, there will be canoes and kayaks available to use. Participants may also bring their own canoe or kayak to help in the cleanup. Life Jackets will be required.

Adult supervision will also be required for youth 17 & under who will be participating with cleanup on the water.

There will be Educational & conservation exhibits, a Native Florida flowering plant giveaway, and additional giveaways for the first 100 participants or families that register.

Preregister now Kissimmee.gov/TidyUpToho.

Prizes will be awarded for: – Most trash collected by an individual – Most trash collected by a family – Most unique item collected For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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NEWS Help conserve Florida wildlife as they become more active this spring Spring is an active season for Florida wildlife and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is reminding residents and visitors how to help conserve native species and reduce conflicts with them. As the weather warms, many species begin to migrate, mate, feed and nest. This increased level of wildlife activity means that people are more likely to encounter wildlife and should take precautions to avoid disrupting these natural behaviors and prevent conflicts with wildlife. Tips on how to enjoy and help conserve Florida wildlife during spring: Sea Turtles – These large marine reptiles start to nest in spring. You can help by keeping beaches dark at night and free of obstacles during their March through October nesting season. Artificial lighting can disturb nesting sea turtles and disorient hatchlings, so avoid using flashlights or cellphones on the beach at night.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/37wOR6n

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NEWS Sit back, stay later, and let SunRail do the driving during Spring Break Week!

Spring Break is here and with SunRail you can Stay out LATER March 14-18, 2022 because SunRail is running longer than its normal hours, and with gas prices setting new record highs, this can be a great way to sit back and let SunRail do the driving!

Take advantage of SunRail’s new train schedule for evening events scheduled near their stations. Here’s your chance to discover new places and enjoy all the Spring Break festivities happening around Central Florida while avoiding traffic and parking fees this time of year.

From Anavitoria and Patti Labelle performing at the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center, to Magic games, the Sanford Art & Jazz Night, and the 63RD Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, you can hop on a SunRail train, stay later and let SunRail do the driving!

Per TSA guidelines, masks are required onboard trains.

Osceola County to resurface KOA Street and Marigold Avenue in Poinciana Osceola County has announced the tentative scheduling for road resurfacing on Sunday, March 20th through Friday, April 8th.

• KOA Street: San Remo Road to Marigold Avenue • Marigold Avenue: Cypress Parkway to San Lorenzo Road Work will be performed daily from 8 pm to 5 am with schedules possibly varying based on weather conditions or equipment-related issues. There will be temporary lane closures but no road closures, and traffic delays can be expected in the area.

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NEWS

FWC officers intercept commercial vessel with more than 11,000 pounds of illegally harvested shrimp On March 3, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation (FWC) officers onboard the FWC’s Gulf Sentry, an offshore patrol vessel, conducted a resource inspection on a commercial shrimping vessel that was determined to be operating illegally just south of MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa Bay. The vessel, named the Dona Lupa, and its crew were from Port Isabel, Texas. During their inspection, officers discovered more than 11,000 pounds of shrimp, valued at more than $30,000, and several pounds of cobia fillets in the vessel’s freezer. Upon further inspection, officers also discovered turtle-excluder device (TED) violations.

“Our officers remain committed to stopping these illegal commercial shrimping trips,” said Major Rob Rowe, FWC Southwest Regional Commander. “Florida’s resources must be protected from illegal harvest, and our specially trained officers are dedicated to ensuring that these illegal commercial vessel operators are cited accordingly.”

The vessel’s captain was cited for not having a restricted species endorsement on their Saltwater Products License, failure to display Saltwater Products License on vessel, possession of cobia not in whole condition and TED violations.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/37wPrRB For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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NEWS Falling oil prices halts daily surge in gas pump prices, but will it last?

After cresting above $123 per barrel shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the price of crude oil has gradually fallen below $110. If this trend holds, it may remove some of the extreme upward price pressure consumers have found at the pump, but not all. The national average price of a gallon of gas hit $4.33 on Friday, March 11, before falling a penny and holding throughout the weekend and Monday at $4.32.

“It bears reminding that the cost of oil accounts for about 50% of what drivers pay at the pump,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “This war is roiling an already tight global oil market and making it hard to determine if we are near a peak for pump prices, or if they keep grinding higher. It all depends on the direction of oil prices.”

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

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NEWS Help Now’s 4th Annual “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” to Focus on Domestic Violence Awareness April 27th On Wednesday, April 27th at 6 pm Help Now of Osceola will host the 4th Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes!

There is an old saying: “You can’t understand another person’s experience until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.” So, to get people listening, learning, and talking, Help Now of Osceola’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes will center around local men literally walking one mile in women’s high-heeled shoes. It’s not an easy walk, but it’s an experience focused on education, self-reflection, and change. It’s all about increasing Domestic Violence Awareness, which unfortunately is still a terrible reality in and around Osceola County.

For more information call (407) 847-0128, or email info@helpnowshelter.org.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3t3djDy

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SPORTS Orange Belt Conference softball title chase could be wide open affair After two weeks of games, most county teams were slated to start their Orange Belt Conference schedule last week before mother nature stepped in – raining out eight games including the OBC opener for five teams.

This year’s conference race could be a wide open affair with at least four teams having a chance to contend for the title. In addition to the OBC title, teams will be trying to build a resume that will affect their district seeding and hopeful advancement to the state playoffs.

Osceola’s Miranda Watford’s team is off to a 2-2 start but saw it OBC opener with Celebration postponed by Thursday’s rain. Osceola is in somewhat of a rebuilding year after graduating four senior starters off of last year’s 16-10 district champion team.

Still the Kowboys return some talent, including juniors Nayeli Hernandez (.508 BA, 15 RBI) and Gabriela Avila (Jr., .403, 25 RBI). They also return two pitchers in Alyssa Miranda and Alexis Miranda, who combined for 10 of their 16 wins last year. Veronica Fernandez and Keanna Ducasse are first-year starters who could play a key role Osceola’s fortunes this year.

Watford believes that although her team lost some key players to graduation, they can still compete for OBC and District titles. “We have some a group of solid returning players and behind the leadership of senior pitcher Alyssa Miranda, I believe this team will grow and come together as the season progresses. We have a dedicated, focused group that is not afraid to put in the work.”

After a tough 5-12 season, Harmony head coach Kristi Mindrup believes the Longhorns will be a much- improved club this year.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3wn9sEH For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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SPORTS Seven from Osceola County named AllState Football Seven athletes from Osceola County were named to All-State this week by FloridaHSFootball.com. The web site compiles it All-State teams from input for coaches around the state, player statistics and rankings from MaxPreps.com, the strength of schedule from each team and from media lists of all-area selections.

Osceola High led all county teams by placing five players on the Class 8A team.

Junior defensive back Bo Mascoe was named to the first team, junior defensive lineman John Walker was on the 2nd team, while senior quarterback Chad Mascoe and junior defensive line Derrick Leblanc were third team honorees. Senior defensive back Jeremiah Wilson was tabbed the honorable mention team.

It was no surprise that Osceola had four players named to the defensive unit. Despite playing six games against ranked teams, the Kowboys allowed just over 11 points per game and just over one yard per rush on the season (557 yards on 414 attempts).

Applying pressure up front, Walker and Leblanc where two main reasons for Osceola’s defensive success. Walker had a monster year, with 71 tackles, 17 tacklesfor-loss and 13 quarterback sacks; overshadowing Leblanc’s impressive numbers of 38 tackles, 12 TFL and eight sacks.

The pressure asserted by Osceola’s front four, gave ample opportunities for Bo Mascoe and Wilson to make big plays in the secondary. From his corner spot, Mascoe led Central Florida with seven interceptions and also batted down 11 passes; while Wilson – a safety – had eight pass defenses and a pair of picks.

With Chad Mascoe at quarterback in the past two years, Osceola transformed itself from a team that ran the ball almost 90 percent of the time to a much more balanced attack that saw a run-pass ratio of nearly 60-40 last year.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3i8MGb2 For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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SPORTS

By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola

JDs Weekly Musings, talking Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Syracuse’s Jim Boeheim, and more!

Tom Brady retired from being retired, it was either the high price of jet fuel had him worried about his 401K tanking or he just wanted to spend more time with someone else’s kids (Evans, Godwin, etc.)…

Don’t think for a second that Aaron Rodgers re-upping with the Packers and not seeking a trade elsewhere had anything to do with his love and loyalty to Wisconsin.

Rodgers took a good hard look at the talent of a couple of teams he would have considered a trade to (Denver or 49ers) but then took an equally hard look at the divisions he would have to play in and who he would have to compete with. Let’s face it, a significant part of the Rodgers legacy is tied to his eight division titles in last the 10 years and Aaron has always seemed to care about Aaron first.

Can’t help but think Rodgers realized it’s a lot easier to win division titles and get into the playoffs by going against the Bears, Vikings, and Lions twice a year, compared to having to play against teams like the Rams, Seahawks, Cardinals, or Bills, Chiefs, Raiders, and Chargers twice a year…

In a world where the NFL’s immense popularity is directly tied to gambling, some fans are suggesting the indefinite suspension of Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley for betting on an NFL game while on injured reserve was a bit harsh. While it is not unreasonable to suggest that, the NFL knew this was eventually going to happen and they were going to lower the hammer on the first offender no matter what. Is it fair that a $1500 bet (chump change to an NFL player) on a football game he was not involved in is going to cost him at least $11 million in salary next year? Probably not, but make no mistake about it, the Shield was sending a message to all the players…

Speaking of that, let me make sure we understand the NFL’s Scales of Justice correctly…beat girlfriend in elevator…two games (Ray Rice)… ask an equipment manager to leave a little air out of the ball four games (Tom Brady)…

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3u6d6jw For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Works by Leila Beauvais on display at Veterans Memorial St. Cloud Library beginning March 16th Osceola Arts – Art in Public Places at the Veterans Memorial Library. St. Cloud Branch presents local artist Leila Beauvais. Works by Leila Beauvais will be on display at the Veterans Memorial St. Cloud Library from March 16 through April 30.

Beauvais loves creating pieces that are beautiful and joyful. She is a Florida native, a self-taught artist that draws inspiration from the Florida landscape and her Puerto Rican heritage. She enjoys exploring all different types of mediums and experimenting “just to see what happens”.

Creating is a source of peace and very therapeutic for Beauvais.”Our beautiful natural surroundings, most especially the beach is where most of my inspiration comes from, as well as dancing. I love conveying the sheer happiness and fun that comes with dancing.

It brings people together as one universal language, especially in Latin culture. I love the movement and connection made whether I am a participant or watching.” says Beauvais.

For more information on Art in Public Placmailto:marilyn@osceolaarts.orges, contact marilyn@osceolaarts.org.

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IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade Returns to Magic Kingdom Park Maleficent towers over guests during the “Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade” in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista.

The extremely popular non-holiday parade returned to the happiest place on earth Wednesday, March 9, 2022, after a nearly two-year absence and was also its eighth anniversary!

The Festival of Fantasy parade features some state-of-the-art floats, a magical soundtrack, lots of fan-favorite characters, and of course, a fire-breathing dragon.

Be sure to check showtimes either on the Disney World website or on the My Disney Experience app.

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

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IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at SeaWorld Orlando Thursday, April 29th – May 8th The Wild Arctic Plaza will come to life as entertainers, stilt walkers, and party starters get this full-blown fiesta going in a big way from Thursday, April 29 – May 8 at SeaWorld Orlando.

From 12 pm – 6 pm enjoy SeaWorld’s DJ Dance Pary that’s sure to get your feet moving at the fun-filled party as they spin new and old beats throughout the day.

Immerse yourself in the traditional music of Mexico as classic bands bring their beautiful and bold sounds to Orlando. Make sure to savor new and classic tastes as part of SeaWorld Orland’s Seven Seas Food Festival including mini churro bites, drunken shrimp tostadas, beef barbacoa tacos, and delicious beer and cocktails.

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POSITIVELY DELICIOUS Florida Broccoli and Avocado Soup, it’s Positively Delicious!

Broccoli, Avocado, Spinach… mmm they’re so good and so good for you! So, let’s put them together and call it Florida Broccoli and Avocado Soup. We think you’ll agree, that it’s positively delicious!

INGREDIENTS • 1 cup Florida broccoli, chopped • 1 cup fresh Florida spinach • ½ Florida avocado • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 onion, chopped • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced • ⅓ cup low-fat milk • 1 ¼ cup low-sodium vegetable broth • 1 cup homemade croutons • 4 teaspoons Parmesan cheese, grated • Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste PREPARATION Place a medium-sized stockpot over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated pan. Add onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until translucent. Add broccoli, vegetable broth, and milk to the pan. Reduce heat and bring to a simmer. Cook ingredients until the broccoli is just crisp-tender.

Add broccoli mixture to a blender with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure not to fill the blender more than half full at a time. Add the avocado and spinach to the blender as well. Carefully pulse the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Return soup to pot and heat back up to serving temperature. Garnish soup with croutons and Parmesan cheese.

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POSITIVELY DELICIOUS Florida Snap Beans with Caramelized Onions and Mushrooms, They’re Positively Delicious!

Who says it can’t be delicious, healthy, and low in calories? Not us, because it can be, and here is an awesome example. Florida Snap Beans with Caramelized Onions and Mushrooms… we think you’ll agree, that they’re positively delicious!

INGREDIENTS • 1 pound Florida snap beans, stems trimmed • 16 large Florida button mushrooms, rinsed and sliced • 2 large onions, peeled and sliced • 2 teaspoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter • Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste PREPARATION Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the preheated sauté pan. Add sliced onions to pan and cook them for 3 to 5 minutes until almost caramelized. Add the green beans and garlic to the pan and continue to cook ingredients for another 3 to 4 minutes until the green beans are almost to desired tenderness. Add mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce and butter. Cook another 2 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve warm.

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407-979-4161 www.CIJSstcloud.org

TechCentral is a brand new creative space providing access to tools and technologies that will help the community gain the necessary skills to make their dreams a reality!

Featuring: Recording Studio Sewing Studio iMac Computer Lab with Adobe Creative Suite Virtual Reality Equipment Robotics for Kids Photography Studio 3D Printing On Demand Located on the second floor of Hart Memorial Central Library 211 E Dakin Avenue | Kissimmee, FL | 34741

osceolalibrary.org/techcentral | 407.742.8888

COMMUNITY

OUC, St. Cloud Break Ground on New Operations Center, First Net-Zero Florida Utility Campus OUC – The Reliable One, the second largest municipal utility in Florida. and the City of St. Cloud held a groundbreaking ceremony for OUC’s new state-of-the-art St. Cloud Operations & Maintenance Center, the first net-zero campus for a Florida utility.

The $63.6 million, 24-acre campus will reach net-zero emissions through conservation and efficiency practices and its use of renewable energy. Designed by OUC and Jacobs, a design firm, the project aligns with OUC’s and the City of St. Cloud’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy. Ajax Construction is building the facility located at 2070 Hickory Tree Road in east St. Cloud.

“Today marks another step toward OUC’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” said Clint Bullock, OUC’s General Manager & CEO. “This campus will include unique sustainability features and renewable energy throughout. We believe this will show what commercial buildings can look like while eliminating their carbon footprint, and we hope others will follow our lead with more net-zero energy buildings in the future.”

Construction includes building a 55,000-square-foot warehouse and a 22,000-squarefoot fleet maintenance facility with service bays, parts stores, electric vehicle (EV) fleet charging and fueling stations, and a vehicle wash area. Approximately 260 people will work on this portion of the project.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3il1ALC For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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COMMUNITY Valencia College’s New Mascot Voting Has Begun, and You Can Vote!

Valencia College is selecting a new mascot, and they’re looking for some help by opening it up for a vote! That’s right, you can vote on Valencia College’s next cool mascot through March 29.

Valencia College received more than 650 inspired submissions for the new Valencia College mascot, and after taking a look and evaluating the submissions, the President Student Advisory Board (PSAB) Mascot Development Committee has selected three final candidates. Now it’s time for you to vote for your favorite!

When voting for your mascot, consider the one that best represents the Valencia College community and the following qualities the college is known for: perseverance, strength, resilience and the ability to overcome challenge. So there is the guidance in the voting now all that’s left is to help by voting by March 29.

Vote Now –>> https://bit.ly/3MY2onB

Florida leads nation with over 1 million registered boating vessels, FWC announces The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) today announced that Florida continues to lead the nation and has passed the mark of 1 million registered recreational vessels across the state. Florida, with its great year-round weather and plenty of access to fresh and salt water, is the “Boating Capital of the World.” With more people calling Florida home and more vessels on the water, it’s important that residents and visitors practice safe boating. The top five counties for vessel registration in Florida are Miami-Dade (74,622), Pinellas (53,867), Lee (50,304), Broward (47,741) and Hillsborough (41,495).

Boaters are encouraged to wear their life jackets, maintain 360-degree awareness and know the dangers (and penalties) for operating a vessel while impaired.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3tl6pKV For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website!

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COMMUNITY

Battle at Narcoossee Mill Returns to St. Cloud’s Chisolm Park March 26-27 On Saturday, March 26th and Sunday 27th take a step back in time to 1864 and experience the 28th Annual Battle at Narcoossee Mill, regarded as one of the most realistic, enjoyable, and spectator-friendly battle reenactments in Florida.

Stroll and shop among civil war period merchants – known as sutlers, enjoy LIVE music from “7 lbs. of Bacon,” visit authentic military camps, witness musket demonstrations, and experience, enjoy, and learn from actors portraying historical figures of the civil war. At 2 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, sit back and watch an authentic grandstand view of the Battle at Narcoossee Mill like no other. Of course, while you’re there you’ll be able to enjoy some of “Jacob Summerlin’s famous pulled pork sandwiches” and so much more delicious fare. Proceeds from admission and BBQ sales will help support civic and charitable activities of the Jacob Summerlin Camp.

The park is open to the public at 9:30 am and parking is FREE. Admission is $10 per adult, $5 per child 5-11 years of age, under 5 is free. There is discounted admission for those with valid military ID. The event will take place at The Ralph V. Chisholm Park on the eastern shores of East Lake Tohopekaliga at 4700 Chisholm Park Trail 34771, off of Narcoossee Road (SR-15) between US-192 and SR-417.

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COMMUNITY

Spring means active Florida gators, here are some tips to safely co-exist with alligators Signs of spring – balmy weather, blooming flowers, and nesting birds – are occurring throughout Florida. Warmer temperatures also mean alligators are more active and visible. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recommends taking precautions when in and around the water and has expanded its safety materials to include a video and infographic in Spanish.

While serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, the FWC offers the following tips about how to safely co-exist with them: Keep a safe distance if you see an alligator and never feed one. When fed, alligators can lose their natural wariness and instead learn to associate people with the availability of food. Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours.

Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn. Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge and never let them swim in fresh or brackish water. Pets often resemble alligators’ natural prey.

Call the FWC’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286) if you believe an alligator poses a threat to people, pets, or property and the FWC will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation.

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COMMUNITY

Council On Aging Revives Senior Companion Program after $100,000 Florida Blue Foundation Grant The Florida Blue Foundation has awarded the Osceola Council on Aging (OCOA) a $100,000 grant to revive the Council’s existing Senior Companion Program. The previously unfunded program is dedicated to reducing social isolation amongst disadvantaged seniors living in Osceola County.

“Osceola County is home to more than 50,000 residents ages 65 and older, and these numbers are growing rapidly, making our Senior Companion Program an essential resource that focuses on the well-being of our senior population,” said Wendy Coschignano-Ford, president/CEO of the Osceola Council on Aging.

The goal of this grant is to help the OCOA increase its reach by providing additional companionship to more seniors. The program improves quality of life, provides a sense of purpose, while encouraging healthy mental stimulation, and addresses critical needs in support of maintaining one’s independence. “Our goal is to help seniors live the rest of their lives in the comfort of their own home,” added Ford. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reported that approximately one in four older adults in the U.S. have a mental illness, and this number is expected to double to 15 million by 2030.

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COMMUNITY Huntington’s Free Webinar Thursday March 17th: How is Your Child Doing in School?

How is your child really doing in school, and what steps can you take to make sure they are successful and keeping up?

During Huntington Learning Center’s upcoming Free How-To Webinar on Thursday, March 17 at 1 pm, their education expert will provide an overview of the areas in school that children are struggling with, plus tips and techniques for parents to ensure their children are completing homework and preparing well for exams.

Why does Huntington Learning Center work? For over 44 years, Huntington has treated students as individuals and tailored their tutoring programs to fit their unique needs, academic goals, and schedules. Trust Huntington to help your child succeed! To register for Thursday’s free webinar, visit huntingtonhelps.com. The webinar is free and it’s simple to register.

City of St. Cloud Announces Dates for Upcoming City-wide Garage Sales The City of St. Cloud has set April 8-10 and November 18-20, as the dates for their upcoming citywide garage sales this year.

All residents and property owners within the city limits automatically qualify for the citywide no-fee permit and do not need a hard-copy permit for those dates.

Start cleaning out those closets and garages and get ready to participate! For more information on City permits, visit stcloud.org or call 407-957-8427.

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HEALTH

Tiffany S. Cross, DO Family Medicine Orlando Health

Can You Take Expired Medications?

If your prescription medication has expired, don’t use it, toss it — safely.

Expired drugs lose their effectiveness, can chemically change and even cause unexpected side effects.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1979 began requiring drug manufacturers to list an expiration date on medications. Those dates reflect the medication’s strength, quality and purity when stored according to directions.

You should never use a medication past its expiration date. But some drugs, like insulin, are particularly important to dispose of after their expiration date to guarantee effectiveness and safety.

Consider two main factors to consider before taking an expired medication: Effectiveness: Some medications are not as effective after their expiration date.

This means that if someone takes the medicine after the expiration date, they won’t be getting the proper medication they need to stabilize their condition. For example, antibiotics used past their expiration date can fail to treat an infection, potentially leading to additional complications as the infection spreads in the body.

Safety: Other expired medications are at risk of bacterial growth. This can cause infection, irritation and other potentially harmful side effects.

An FDA study determined that drugs like liquid antibiotics, aspirin, nitroglycerin and insulin are among the drugs found to have deteriorated past their expiration date. Once a drug has expired, you should dispose of it properly.

Storage Matters Some drugs need to be refrigerated because they’re only effective at a certain temperature. They can break down without the use of a fridge and won’t be as potent.

For example, insulin needs to be kept refrigerated. Other common drugs that need to be stored at a cool temperature, include: Eye and ear drops, some antibiotics, injectibles like insulin, some birth control methods like intravaginal rings, chemotherapy drugs, glucagon used to manage hypoglycemia, as well as some topical medications like creams or gels.

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HEALTH

Kenny Tello LCSW, CAP, CCTP, CCISM Orlando Health

5 Ways to Increase Optimism and Reduce Anxiety Every Day 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 remember we simply have greater access to bad news.

Changing the Story Here are five strategies to help counteract the effects of negative experiences, whether they are happening to you or someone else: 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.

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.

Establish a support system. Albert Einstein said, “Problems cannot be solved with the same mindset that created them.” Find someone to speak to regularly who gives you encouragement. Having that presence can be extremely helpful. We can often have a sense that we’re going through everything by ourselves. In reality, there are many who have gone through similar situations. They can be an invaluable support. Reach out to them.

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Research from Home

with your Osceola Library Card!

Britannica Library

From the makers of Encyclopedia Britannica

Gale Business: Plan Builder Create a customized business plan

America’s News

Archives of newspapers from across America

Mango Languages Learn a new language

And so many more!

osceolalibrary.org/databases

osceolalibrary.org | 407.742.8888

INJURY LAW Riding a motorcycle in Central Florida, here are some safety tips and precautions!

Florida is one of the most beautiful states in the nation for motorcycle riding. With stunning views and a gorgeous climate, it’s no question why so many riders choose Florida’s highways for joyriding and experiencing the open road, particularly during the summer. However, while Florida may be one of the most scenic states for motorcycle riding, it is also one of the most fatal.

Florida consistently ranks as one of the three top states for the highest number of motorcycle fatalities. Here are some basic tips and precautions for drivers and motorcyclists to help avoid fatalities whenever possible.

If you have been in a motorcycle-vehicle collision and would like personalized advice based on your case, please contact the experienced Florida personal injury attorneys at Draper Law Office for a consultation.

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FAMILY LAW The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted marriages and divorces in Florida, and not in a good way It’s something most people have heard about since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, divorce rates have been increasing and there’s no sign of that changing anytime soon. Families have been forced to adjust to a very different lifestyle amid a long-term locked down, a period of serious health concern, and general uncertainty in life.

Relationships have been experiencing extreme pressure, causing relationships to fail, especially those that were already stressed by everyday life.

In many cases, one or both partners have lost a job, or perhaps their businesses have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. Unfortunately, money has become an even more significant issue in the family dynamic than it normally is, causing stress to build in that relationship, sometimes to the point where a permanent breakup is unfortunately inevitable.

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REAL ESTATE Goodwin Realty: How To Navigate a Market Where Multiple Offers Is the New Normal If you’re thinking of buying a home today, you already know that the number of homes available for sale is low. But what does that really mean for you? As a buyer, low housing supply coupled with high buyer demand means you should be prepared to navigate a highly competitive market where homes sell fast and get multiple offers. Realtor.com has this to say: “Homes also flew off the market at record pace as buyers put offers in the moment properties came up for sale….”

In a bidding war situation like this, doing everything you can to get ahead of the competition is a wise move. That’s because when you find a house and submit an offer, it’ll likely be up against strong offers from other buyers. According to the latest Realtors Confidence Index from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes today are receiving an average of 3.9 offers. That’s the most offers we’ve seen in January for the last 5 years.

To help you navigate bidding wars with multiple offers, an expert real estate advisor is key. They know what’s worked for other buyers, what sellers are looking for, and how to help you prepare when it comes time to make an offer. Here are three tips to keep in mind that will help you make the best offer possible.

1. Know Your Numbers​ Knowing your budget and what you can afford is critical to your success as a homebuyer. The best way to understand your numbers is to work with a lender so you can get pre-approved for a loan. Pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious, which can give you a competitive edge. You should also know making an offer at the home’s asking price may not be enough. Homes today often sell for more than their listing price. An agent can help you understand the market value of the home and what other homes are selling for in your area.

Speed and the pace of sales are contributing factors to today’s competitive housing market. When homes are selling fast, it’s important to stay on top of the market and be ready to move quickly.

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