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

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Two Months to Go! Get Ready for Florida’s 2024 Hurricane Season

April Fools’ Day Surprise: Powerball Jackpot Nears the $1 Billion Mark for Tonight’s Drawing

St. Cloud Lifters and Harmony Lifters Eye State Championships, Roger Jones Kissimmee Klassic Begins Thursday

Unraveling the Enigma: The Historical Tapestry of April Fool’s Day

Osceola Magic Playoff Tickets On Sale Now, After Winning Top Seed in Eastern Conference for the NBA G League Playoffs

Positively Osceola Plus

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 at the Paint the Cloud Green Light Up Parade in St. Cloud

LIVE at the Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Parade

LIVE at the City of Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority, and Toho Water Authority Annual Employee Memorial Service

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

LIVE as Cheryl Grieb unveils the result of the 2023 Bike Rack Competition at Pioneer Village

LIVE as The Osceola County School District announces its Teacher of the Year and School Related Employee of the Year

LIVE at Osceola Arts experiencing the beauty and wonder of artist Vera Gubnitskaia’s exhibit Dreams and Realities

LIVE at Osceola Arts in Kissimmee, where Marilyn Cortes-Lovato unveils an exciting new series of art exhibits

LIVE at the Ted Broda Skate Park Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in St. Cloud

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.

Boating With Brandon

Osceola County Commissioner for District 3 Brandon Arrington is launching a new series that will highlight the natural beauty of Osceola County and the amazing leaders that make a positive difference in our community everyday!

NEWS

St. Cloud Lifters and Harmony Lifters Eye State Championships, Roger Jones Kissimmee Klassic Begins Thursday

Weight lifters from St. Cloud and Harmony will take center stage on Friday, as they attempt to qualify for the 3A FHSAA State Championships at St. Cloud’s Gym. Two-time state champion Mike Ziss (St. Cloud) will be among the favorites to advance to the state meet in both the Traditional (Bench Press plus Clean-and-Jerk) and Olympic (Clean-andJerk plus Snatch) disciplines. Both the Bulldogs and Longhorns qualified most of their respective teams to the regionals after great performances last week at districts (see below).

In softball, some of the top teams and talent in the state will converge in Kissimmee beginning Thursday for the 32nd Annual Roger Jones Kissimmee Klassic at the Fortune Road Softball Complex. Defending 6A state champion Bartow (16-0 and the number ranked overall team in the state) will be the favorite to win the Blue Bracket, which consists of five of the top 12 teams in the state.

Here is a look at sports around Osceola County for this week:

Flag Football

The 2024 regular season wraps up this week as teams begin preparations for District Tournaments that start April 9. Harmony (10-2) and St. Cloud (9-3) are currently battling for the number one seed in Class 2A, District 18, with the final seeding to be determined by MaxPrep State Rankings.

April Fools’ Day Surprise: Powerball Jackpot Nears the $1 Billion Mark for Tonight’s Drawing

The Powerball® jackpot has gone up, as it edges closer to becoming a ten-figure lottery prize! The Powerball jackpot is now estimated at $975 million for tonight’s drawing. The jackpot has an estimated cash value of $471.7 million.

This is Powerball’s fifth-largest jackpot and biggest advertised jackpot, so far, this year.

“This is no April Fools’ Day joke, we have an advertised Powerball jackpot that’s closing in on $1 billion to kick off the month of April,” said Drew Svitko, Powerball Product Group Chair and Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director. “This is an exciting time to play Powerball. Whether you’re a frequent or new player, please remember to keep the game fun by playing responsibly. It only takes one ticket to win.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3xp4iu4

Gas prices continue to rise locally, statewide, and nationally, AAA says

As of today, the national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline stands at $3.53, reflecting a trend of gradually increasing fuel costs. This national figure is closely mirrored by the state of Florida, where drivers are currently paying an average of $3.59 per gallon. In Osceola County, the prices are slightly higher, with the average cost for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline reaching $3.61.

“Uncertainty of the impact of Ukraine’s targeting of Russia’s oil infrastructure likely spiked oil prices recently,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson, in the press release. “But those concerns have abated somewhat for now, and gas prices are settling into a pattern similar to last year when the usual seasonal increase was slow and steady.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3xk56Ra

NEWS

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4cE78vm

Two Months to Go! Get Ready for Florida’s 2024 Hurricane Season

With the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season just two months away, it’s crucial for residents of Florida to start thinking about hurricane preparedness. It’s important to remember how powerful the forces of nature are, and the importance of being prepared. Here are ten essential steps to ensure you, your family, and your community remain safe and ready:

1. Review Your Insurance Coverage: Make sure your home and property insurance is up to date and covers flood damage, which is often not included in standard policies.

2. Create an Emergency Plan: Discuss and plan for where you will go if an evacuation is ordered. Consider both local and out-of-town scenarios.

3. Build a Hurricane Kit: Stock up on non-perishable food, water (one gallon per person per day), medications, flashlights, batteries, and other essentials.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3TY2QaS

NEWS

Unraveling the Enigma: The Historical Tapestry of April Fool’s Day

April Fool’s Day, celebrated on April 1st each year, is a day known for its tradition of playing practical jokes and spreading hoaxes. The origins of this peculiar day are somewhat murky, with various cultures celebrating it for centuries, yet no singular inception point can be definitively pinpointed.

One popular theory suggests its origins during the Middle Ages when New Year’s Day was celebrated on March 25th in most European towns, with festivities lasting until April 1st. People who continued to celebrate New Year’s Day on April 1st were often the subjects of jokes and hoaxes, marking the beginning of what we now recognize as April Fool’s Day.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4aeq7eE

Osceola

Magic

Playoff Tickets

On Sale

Now, After Winning Top Seed in Eastern Conference for the NBA G League Playoffs

The Osceola Magic have clinched the first seed in the Eastern Conference for the NBA G League Playoffs. This milestone marks the first-ever playoff game for the Magic in Osceola.

The Osceola Magic, the NBA G League affiliate of the Orlando Magic receive a first-round bye and will host the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Friday, April 5, at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee at 7 p.m. The Magic will play the winner of the Long Island Nets and Capital City Go-Go. Tickets are now available for purchase.

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

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3SJ2yCU

From Licensing to Limits: Your Complete Guide for the 2024 Florida Turkey Season

The 2024 spring turkey hunting season is underway! If you’re planning to venture south of State Road 70, be ready to enjoy the season which is now open and will run until April 7. For those looking to explore north of State Road 70, you’ll have a bit more time with the season extending until April 21. As you prepare for your hunting adventures, keep the following important information in mind.

ABOUT WILD TURKEYS

Florida is home to two subspecies of wild turkey — the eastern wild turkey and the Osceola or Florida wild turkey. The Osceola wild turkey only lives on the Florida peninsula.

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

Kissimmee Fire Department Launches Advanced Fire Vehicle Simulator for Enhanced Training

The Kissimmee Fire Department has unveiled its latest advancement in firefighter training technology: the cutting-edge Sim-Tech Fire Vehicle Training Simulator. This state-of-the-art simulator represents a monumental stride in the evolution of fire apparatus training, setting a new benchmark in the field.

With this sophisticated tool, the department reaffirms its staunch dedication to providing its team with unparalleled training opportunities. This commitment not only elevates the department’s operational capabilities to new heights but also significantly strengthens the safety and well-being of the community it serves. Through this acquisition, the Kissimmee Fire Department is poised to meet the challenges of modern firefighting with unmatched readiness and efficiency.

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

Habitat for Humanity to host Spanish-speaking FirstTime Homebuyer Workshop in Kissimmee Saturday

Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County will host a free Spanish-speaking First-Time Homebuyer Workshop for those looking to take the first step toward homeownership. The workshop will take place on Saturday, March 23 and covers essential topics including credit, down payment assistance programs, property title, working with real estate agents and homeowners’ insurance.

In the heart of Osceola County, a revolution in education is taking place at Creative Inspiration Journey School (CIJS) in St. Cloud, heralding a new era of learning for students from Pre-K through 8th grade.

Known as the most soughtafter tuition-free public charter school in the area, CIJS is now inviting new families to join its vibrant community through an open enrollment period, offering a unique chance to be part of its innovative educational approach.

City of Kissimmee Announces Alibeth

Suarez as New Communications Director

The City of Kissimmee has announced that Alibeth Suarez will step into the role of Communications Director for the City, bringing a dynamic blend of journalistic expertise and a proven track record in community engagement. Suarez’s appointment is poised to invigorate the city’s communication strategies with innovative approaches and strengthened public relations.

“We are excited to welcome Alibeth to our team,” said City Manager Mike Steigerwald. “Her extensive experience will strengthen our connection with residents and business owners.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/KissimmeeCommunications

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

Celebration Storm Tennis Teams Dominate OBC Championships

They took slightly different routes to get there, but both Celebration high school tennis teams put on dominating performances to win Orange Belt Conference championships this week.

The boys’ squad picked up eight valuable OBC All-Sports Trophy points, taking 17 of a possible 21 team points to easily out-distance second place Gateway (9). Tohopekaliga was third (8); while St. Cloud and Harmony tied for fourth (6).

The Lady Storm were even more dominant winning 20 of 21 matches in the tournament and posting four individual champions and both doubles championships to beat Gateway (14), St. Cloud (6) and Harmony (5).

32nd Roger Jones Kissimmee Klassic Begins Thursday at Fortune Road Softball Complex

Five of the 12 top-ranked high school softball teams in Florida, including overall number one ranked Bartow, will invade Kissimmee beginning Thursday (Apr. 4) for the 32nd edition of the Roger Jones Kissimmee Klassic. The three-day tournament will feature 32 teams playing in two 16team brackets (Blue and Gold), with championship games in each bracket slated for 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Formerly known as the Kissimmee Klassic, the tournament was renamed in 2019 in honor of Roger Jones, a long-time coach, administrator youth sports mentor, tournament co-founder and long-time Executive Director of the event that passed away in 2018. The MVP trophies for the event are named after former Osceola coach George Coffey, another co-founder of the event, who passed away in 2021.

NEWS

A Taste of Paradise Returns: Experience

Unforgettable Blueberry Picking and Positively Delicious Treats at Double C Bar Ranch

The Double C Bar Ranch Blueberry Picking Season commenced with great enthusiasm on Saturday, March 23, and Sunday, March 24. Enthusiastic visitors traveled to the Chapman family’s sprawling 30-acre blueberry fields, nestled 15 miles south of St. Cloud on the way to Kenansville, eager to partake in the annual harvest. This season introduced an exciting array of culinary delights, including savory brats, an assortment of newly crafted blueberry jams, and a uniquely flavorful blueberry hot sauce, all of which received rave reviews from Positively Osceola. Additionally, in a fresh venture this year, Double C Bar Ranch expanded its offerings to include citrus trees, inviting patrons to bring a piece of the ranch’s verdant bounty into their own backyards.

Maximizing Comfort and Efficiency with Osceola Air: The Critical Role of Spring Air Conditioning TuneUps Before the Summer Blaze

As the cooler air of winter gives way to the vibrant blossoms of spring, Florida residents know all too well that the sizzling heat of summer is just around the corner. Preparing for the inevitable spike in temperatures means ensuring your air conditioning system is in top-notch condition. Why? Because a well-maintained AC system is not just about comfort; it’s about health, efficiency, and longevity. And when it comes to reliable air conditioning services in Osceola County, there’s one name that stands out: Osceola Air.

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

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.

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

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital celebrates 60th anniversary of care and service to the Osceola County community

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital is celebrating the 60th anniversary of care at its location in the heart of St. Cloud, a milestone of service to the Osceola County community.

Since 1964, the hospital, formerly known as St. Cloud Regional Medical Center, has been providing high-quality healthcare to patients with a broad range of services, advanced technology and a skilled team of care providers.

“Achieving 60 years of caring for the residents of St. Cloud within this facility is a remarkable milestone,” said Brian Wetzel, President of Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “It’s touching to think about the number of people, patients and families, who have been helped, in often very difficult times, over those six decades.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Vr6L13

NEWS

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.

Be a Beach Hero: Simple Steps to Protect Florida’s Nesting Sea Turtles

Last year marked an exceptional period for sea turtle nesting along Florida’s coasts, with both loggerhead and green turtle nest numbers surpassing all previous records. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) emphasizes the critical role that people can play in continuing this success. By adhering to a few simple guidelines, beachgoers can significantly increase the chances of another record-breaking nesting season for these endangered and threatened species.

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

NEWS

Osceola Arts Illuminates Kissimmee City Hall with ‘We Are the Light’ and ‘The Return of HerStory’: A Tribute to Women’s Creativity in Art

In an inspiring celebration of creativity and womanhood, the Osceola Arts’ Art in Public Places initiative presented “Celebration of Women’s Creativity” through two remarkable art exhibits, “WE ARE THE LIGHT” and “The Return of HerStory.” Held at Kissimmee City Hall on Tuesday, this event became a beacon of artistic expression and recognition during National Women’s History Month.

The exhibits showcased the extraordinary talents of 18 women artists, featuring over 50 pieces of art that adorned every floor of Kissimmee’s City Hall. Visitors were treated to an eclectic inventory of artworks ranging from introspective sculptures and visual arts to artifacts, each reflecting the unique perspectives and experiences of these talented creators.

“Celebration of Women’s Creativity” was not just an exhibition but a testament to the diverse voices and stories of women artists. The art on display offered insights into self-topics and narratives, illuminating the halls of the city hall with personal tales and expressions of identity.

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

Osceola County is a hidden gem for avid runners, walkers, and kayakers seeking a combination of physical fitness and natural beauty. Although the county is one of the fastest growing regions in Florida, its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and wellmaintained trails, offer a haven for those who want to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through ten of Osceola County’s finest locations where you can experience invigorating runs and leisurely walks amid breathtaking natural landscapes.

• Shingle Creek Regional Park:

Shingle Creek Regional Park, often referred to as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. This vast park offers a network of scenic trails suitable for running and walking. The trails wind through lush forests, along the banks of Shingle Creek, and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an intense trail run, Shingle Creek has something for everyone.

• Celebration Lakeside Park:

Celebration, a charming community in Osceola County, and known to many as the ‘Town that Disney built,’ boasts Celebration Lakeside Park, a beautiful destination for runners and walkers. The park features a loop trail around Lake Rianhard, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The flat terrain and wellpaved paths make it an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or a brisk run.

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.

Orlando Health: The Hazards of Binge Drinking HEALTH Orlando Health

A night spent downing beers and shots of hard liquor with friends usually results in a day spent hungover with a pounding headache. Truth is, a hangover may be the least concerning consequence. Called binge drinking, pounding a lot of alcohol in a short amount of time creates effects that linger long after the headache and sour stomach pass.

“Binge drinking involves consuming several alcoholic beverages quickly, raising a person’s blood alcohol concentration to 0.08 or higher in just a few hours,” says Dr. Annette Cabiac, an internal medicine specialist with Orlando Health Physician Associates. “For men, that means 5 or more drinks in a 2-hour period. For women, it’s 4 or more drinks in 2 hours.” READ

Boating with Brandon: Exploring Osceola

County’s Natural Splendor and Changemakers

Osceola County is on the verge of captivating its residents and visitors alike with a new video series that promises to explore its hidden natural treasures like never before. Titled “Boating with Brandon,” this 10-part series is hosted by District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington, who aims to shed light on the rich biodiversity and pristine waterways that are the pride of this rapidly growing region. Along for the ride will be some amazing “changemakers” from in and around Osceola!

Heartfelt Bravery and Solidarity: Downtown Kissimmee

Hosts St. Baldrick’s Shave Fest to Battle Childhood Cancer

In an inspiring display of community unity and compassion, Downtown Kissimmee transformed into a beacon of hope on Saturday afternoon, as Dakin Avenue, in front of 3 Sisters Speakeasy, buzzed with the sound of clippers for a noble cause. The annual St. Baldrick’s Shave Fest once again brought together local leaders and community members, all united in a single mission—to fight childhood cancer head-on.

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.

Orlando Health: 12 Strategies for Fighting Insomnia HEALTH

Ziad R. Mattar, MD Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Orlando Health

It’s hard to know where to begin if you struggle to fall asleep. Roughly a third of all adults battle insomnia at some point in their lives, and the answer to a better night’s rest may be as simple as changing a few everyday habits.

Before you seek the help of a sleep medicine specialist, here are some strategies you can try to return to restorative sleep.

START A SLEEP LOG

Before you make any changes, begin a sleep log to track what is and isn’t working. Record what time you go to bed and awaken, as well as what time you wake up at night, if that’s an issue. The more information you track, the better. You may find it helpful to also track what time you finished dinner as well as if you exercised during the day.

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

Splash into Summer: Disney’s H2O Glow After Hours Lights Up Walt Disney World from May 25

With summer break just around the corner, Walt Disney World Resort guests can get ready to have a “glowing’’ good time when Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon starting May 25.

Guests can look forward to magical late-night parties throughout the summer, giving them an opportunity to enjoy the tropical Disney water park with shorter wait times. The 2024 H2O Glow After Hours season offers more event nights than ever before, with 18 select evenings from May 25 to Aug. 31, 2024.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3x31NOa

Universal Orlando Unveils Exclusive Sneak Peek of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Isle of Berk Adventure at Epic Universe

Universal Orlando Resort is set to expand its horizons with the introduction of its muchanticipated new theme park, Epic Universe, scheduled to open in 2025. Among the myriad of attractions, the “How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk” area stands out as a cornerstone of the park’s immersive experiences, promising to whisk guests away to the fantastical world of Vikings and dragons. The park is set to enchant visitors with its themed dining and shopping venues, complemented by four innovative attractions, an engaging live performance, and unique meet-and-greet opportunities with beloved characters and dragons. Guests will be captivated by breathtaking views familiar from the movies, framed by a dazzling lagoon, and guarded by majestic 40-foot Viking statues, creating an immersive world straight out of the films.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3PKF4wN

Coastal Crunch: Florida Shrimp Tacos with Fresh Cabbage

Dive into the positively delicious taste of Florida Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage, a perfect blend of succulent shrimp and crisp cabbage wrapped in a soft taco shell. This dish offers a burst of flavors and textures, celebrating Florida’s seafood and produce in every bite. A true seaside delight, these tacos are a must-try for anyone craving a fresh, flavorful meal.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3TJ5PnC

Gulf Coast Green: Florida Avocado Crostini

Savor the positively delicious taste of Florida Avocado Crostini, a delightful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of Florida avocados atop crisp, toasted bread. This simple yet elegant dish is a testament to the flavors of the Sunshine State, offering a perfect blend of texture and taste that avocado lovers will adore.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3x651Al

Sunshine Sweetness: Decadent Stuffed Florida Strawberries

Indulge in the positively delicious taste of Stuffed Florida Strawberries, a gourmet treat that marries the natural sweetness of ripe Florida strawberries with rich, creamy fillings. Each berry is a bitesized piece of heaven, offering a perfect balance of fruit and decadence. Ideal for a luxurious snack or an elegant dessert, these stuffed strawberries showcase the best of Florida’s bountiful harvest.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/43CB6vL

POSITIVELY DELICIOUS

Tropical Tide: Garlic-Lemon Steamed Clams with Tomato

Steamed Florida Clams with Tomato, Lemon, and Garlic is a positively delicious dish that combines tender clams with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic. This simple yet exquisite blend brings a refreshing taste of the ocean’s bounty, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

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Florida Blueberry Breakfast Casserole

Indulge in the essence of Florida mornings with this Florida Blueberry Breakfast Casserole. This positively delicious dish brings together the lush, vibrant flavors of locally sourced blueberries with a rich, creamy base, creating a symphony of taste that dances across your palate. Perfect for a family breakfast or a special brunch, this casserole captures the spirit of Florida’s sunny groves and warm, welcoming culture.

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Sunshine Stir-Fry: Florida Chicken & Vegetable Fried Rice

Enjoy the positively delicious flavors of Florida Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice, a vibrant dish that blends succulent chicken with fresh, local veggies. This hearty meal is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, perfect for a nourishing and satisfying dining experience.

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