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

Exploring Osceola’s Natural Splendor and Community Changemakers in “Boating with Brandon” Episode 3 Streaming Thursday

Florida Voters: Renew Your Vote-byMail Request Every Election Cycle

Prepare for a Busy Hurricane Season: NOAA Forecasts Increased Storm Activity for 2024

Saddle Up for the 153rd Silver Spurs Rodeo: Heart-Pounding Action Awaits With Two Unforgettable Nights of Rodeo Fun!

Kissimmee Hosts Pridefest Block Party: Fun, Food, and Celebration on June 1st

2024 Prime Time Showdown: Utah vs. UCF Black Friday Football Game to Air at 8 P.M. on FOX

Upcoming Gator Week at Wild Florida Promises Fun and Education May 27 to June 1 Featured Videos

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

LIVE at Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at Mt. Peace Cemetery

LIVE as Commissioner Booth and St. Cloud Team Up For Swimming Safety

LIVE at the St. Cloud Fire Rescue Meet and Greet

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

LIVE for the Awarding of Pa’Pikar Latin Grill in Kissimmee with the Downtown Beautification & Innovation Award

LIVE at the Ribbon-Cutting for OUC’s New St. Cloud Operations & Maintenance Center

LIVE for the Osceola County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony

LIVE as Commissioner Grieb and Osceola Community Health Services Announce the Start of Senior Smiles Osceola Denture Program in District 4

LIVE for the Operation Ride SMART Press Conference with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office

ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS

LIVE with Creative Inspiration

Journey School Founder and CEO

Patty Marquis

April 18th, 2024

LIVE with Huntington Learning Center

April 11th, 2024

LIVE with Jason Wethington from St. Cloud’s Theatre in the Cloud

May 10th, 2024

LIVE with Jennifer Panzella, Director of Education with Osceola Arts

May 2nd, 2024

LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper

Law Office

April 18th, 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!

Exploring Osceola’s Natural Splendor and Community Changemakers in “Boating with Brandon” Episode 3

Streaming Thursday

“Boating with Brandon,” the inspirational 10-part video series hosted by Osceola County Commissioner, Brandon Arrington, returns with its third episode on Thursday, promising another immersive adventure of exploring and featuring Osceola County’s beautiful waterways.

This series not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Osceola County but also profiles the influential change-makers who are shaping its future. In this episode, viewers will experience the thrilling beauty of the Kissimmee of Lakes, guided by Commissioner Arrington.

Joining Commissioner Arrington is Osceola County Commissioner for District 5, Ricky Booth, who will delve into the rich history of the county’s waterways, including Trout Lake, Lake Lizzie, Buck Lake, and East Lake Tohopekaliga. The commissioners will discuss the flood management strategies implemented last year to safeguard the community from the severe rains that threatened homes and properties. They will also highlight the historical significance and natural beauty of Osceola County’s scenic waterways.

Saddle Up for the 153rd

Silver Spurs Rodeo: Heart-Pounding Action Awaits With Two Unforgettable Nights of Rodeo Fun!

The 153rd Silver Spurs Rodeo is gearing up to bring heart-pounding, dirt-flying action two thrilling evening rodeos on May 31, and June 1. Expect a full lineup of rodeo’s classic events, including bull riding, bareback bronc busting, saddle bronc riding, tiedown roping, women’s barrel racing, steer wrestling, and team roping. 153rd Silver Spurs Rodeo is brought to you by Experience Kissimmee.

This summer’s rodeo also features some unique events that will keep you on the edge of your seat: junior barrel racing, junior bull riding, and the ever-popular mutton bustin’. Watch as young cowboys and cowgirls take the reins, showcasing their skills in front of a live crowd.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3QGVI0G

Kissimmee Hosts Pridefest Block Party: Fun, Food, and Celebration on June 1st

On Saturday, June 1st, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., the City of Kissimmee will present Pridefest Kissimmee—a “block party” celebration designed to foster awareness and honor the impactful contributions of our local LGBTQ+ community.

Held at the Kissimmee Civic Center, the event will feature an exciting lineup of fun, including exhibitors, advocacy organizations, drag bingo, live music, and food trucks. Enjoy LIVE performances by LIVE Hart, Lady Gaga Tribute Band, and Kissimmee Queens.

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

Upcoming Gator Week at Wild Florida Promises Fun and Education May 27 to June 1

Wild Florida has announced the return of Gator Week, a unique event dedicated to one of Florida’s most iconic and often misunderstood creatures—the American alligator. From May 27 to June 1, 2024, visitors can look forward to a week filled with educational and interactive activities aimed at debunking myths and showcasing the fascinating world of alligators.

To many, alligators are seen as fierce predators, but Wild Florida aims to change that perception through live demonstrations and interactive experiences. Like many misunderstood creatures, myths develop based on a lack of knowledge.

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

Florida Voters: Renew Your Vote-by-Mail Request

Every Election Cycle

Osceola County Supervisor of Elections, Mary Jane Arrington is reminding voters that if they want to receive a vote-by-mail ballot for the fall elections, they must request one for the next election.

Recent legislation changed vote-bymail request expirations. All vote-bymail requests expire at the end of every election cycle. Anyone who voted by mail in the 2022 election cycle must place a new request if they would like to vote-by-mail in the 2024 election cycle. These voters who have yet to place their new request will be receiving a mailer notifying them of this change. Voters who receive the mailer are encouraged to respond as soon as possible.

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

Prepare for a Busy Hurricane Season: NOAA Forecasts Increased Storm Activity for 2024

NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season, and a 5% chance of a belownormal season.

NOAA forecasts 17 to 25 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), 8 to 13 of which could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 4 to 7 major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges.

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

2024 Prime Time Showdown: Utah vs. UCF Black

Friday Football Game to Air at 8 P.M. on FOX

FOX Sports announced its FOX College Football Friday schedule for the 2024 season Wednesday afternoon and as part of the lineup, UCF’s Black Friday matchup against Utah on Nov. 29 will kick off at 8 p.m. on FOX from FBC Mortgage Stadium.

The contest will mark the first meeting between the programs on the gridiron and the second consecutive year that the Knights have had a game air on FOX, with last year’s game at Kansas on the network.

Announced earlier this year, FOX College Football Friday is a dedicated primetime window showcasing elite college football Friday nights on FOX throughout the fall. The new package will lead off FOX Sports’ unrivaled weekend football lineup – followed by college football’s most-watched window, BIG NOON SATURDAY, and the No.1 mostwatched program in all of television, FOX NFL’s AMERICA’S GAME OF THE WEEK.

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

KUA Releases 2024 Hurricane Preparedness Guide Ahead of June 1 Atlantic Hurricane Season Start

With the start of the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season beginning on June 1 and running through November 30, Kissimmee Utility Authority has released its 2024 Osceola Hurricane Guide, a free, bilingual, comprehensive preparedness guide offered annually to Osceola County residents.

A partnership between KUA, Osceola County, the cities of Kissimmee and St. Cloud, Toho Water Authority and UF IFAS Extension in Osceola County, the handbook includes information on emergency shelters, evacuation routes, generator safety and power outage restoration as well as helpful telephone numbers, and a disaster supplies checklist.

Free Swim Lessons for Osceola Kids: Commissioner Booth and St. Cloud Team Up for Swimming Safety

This summer, 150 children in Osceola County will benefit from free swim lessons, thanks to a $10,000 partnership among Osceola County District 5 Commissioner Ricky Booth, the City of St. Cloud, and St. Cloud Main Street. The program, launching during National Water Safety Month, arrives just in time for the summer swimming season in Central Florida, ensuring children are equipped with essential water safety skills.

“Swimming and enjoying our pools and waterways are one of the great things about being a kid in Florida,” Booth said. “We want to make it possible for our kids to be safe while they enjoy the water.”

Meet the Candidates: St. Cloud Greater Osceola Chamber of Commerce’s Politics

in the

Barn Comes to OHP in July

The St. Cloud Greater Osceola County Chamber of Commerce has announced that their Politics in the Barn event will take place at Osceola Heritage Park Event Center in Kissimmee on July 24 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. This event provides a unique opportunity for constituents to meet and greet candidates running in the 2024 election in Osceola County.

Politics in the Barn offers a relaxed, informal setting where attendees can interact with candidates and discuss their platforms. The event will also feature a Straw Poll hosted by the Supervisor of Elections Office, allowing attendees to cast their preliminary votes and gauge the political climate ahead of the official election.

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

NEWS

KUA Earns Diamond Level Reliable Public Power Provider

Designation for Exceptional Safety and Reliability

The Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) has been awarded the prestigious Diamond Level Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3)® designation by the American Public Power Association, recognizing their commitment to delivering safe and reliable electricity.

The RP3 designation, which lasts for three years, recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, workforce development, and system improvement. Criteria include sound business practices and a utility-wide commitment to safe and reliable delivery of electricity. KUA joins more than 250 public power utilities nationwide that hold the RP3 designation.

The Osceola County School for the Arts Jazz Band

Swings Back to the Essentially Ellington Jazz Competition in New York Lookin to Three-Peat

The top 15 high school-aged jazz bands from across the country will converge at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s home for the 29th annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival May 9-11. One of those jazz bands will once again be from the Osceola County School for the Arts, under the direction of Jason Anderson.

OCSA’s Jazz Band A pulled off a back to back repeat last year in New York, and is hoping to pull off a ‘three-peat’ next week when they face 14 other excellent jazz bands from around the country.

The Students will spend three days immersed in workshops, jam sessions, rehearsals, and performances, and compete for top honors in, the nation’s premier jazz education event.

Jazz at Lincoln Center marks the 125th birthday of Duke Ellington (April 29, 1899 – May 24, 1974) with a festival of events at Frederick P. Rose Hall, the organization’s home, in New York, NY.

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.

SPORTS

By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola

Building the Tigers’ Roar: Tohopekaliga’s Football Journey Continues Under Coach Paradiso’s Tenure

The building of Tohopekaliga’s football team remains a work in progress, as veteran coach Anthony Paradiso wrapped up his second full year at the school on Tuesday night with a spirited 80-play scrimmage against Hagerty High School at Austin Tindall Park.

“We’ve made tremendous progress but there is still a lot of work to do,” Paradiso said at the conclusion of his third spring with the Tigers. “It took a while, but our players are now starting to get comfortable with how we do things, what is expected of them academically and athletically — particularly as it pertains to off-season work. We knew that was going to take some time but we have progressed to the point where can concentrate more on the game itself.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4bDq2kV

Osceola Lady Kowboys Exit Softball Playoffs After Regional Quarterfinal Loss to Palm Beach Gardens

For four innings, Miranda Watford’s young Osceola Kowboys softball team gave second-seeded Palm Beach Gardens all they wanted. At the end of the day, it was too much Sydney Shaffer as the Gators ended Osceola’s season with a 6-2 win in a Class 7A, Region 3 quarterfinal game on Thursday night.

Shaffer, the PBG ace, pitched a complete game three-hitter. She struck out 12 and walked just one in improving her season record to 11-1. The Gators moved to 22-4 and will now host Centennial – a 15-0 winner over Harmony – in a regional semifinal. St. Cloud, who also saw its season come to the end Thursday, dropped a close 2-0 lead to number one seed Wellington in another Region 3 quarterfinal.

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

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

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.

Central Florida Expressway Authority to Introduce New Flex Lanes to Improve Traffic Flow

The Central Florida Expressway Authority is set to enhance driver safety and traffic flow this summer with the anticipated launch of Flex Lanes. Part of the latest capacity improvement projects on State Road 417 (Central Florida GreeneWay) and State Road 429 (Daniel Webster Western Beltway), this innovative traffic management system will temporarily open the left shoulder to traffic when incidents cause lane closures in one or more of the right lanes.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recognizes this approach as an Advanced Traffic Management Strategy that reduces congestion and improves safety during significant incidents.

Kissimmee’s Freebee Rideshare Expands Service Area, Offering Broader Coverage for Visitors

The City of Kissimmee is expanding its Freebee rideshare service, providing residents with an even more efficient, and cost-free way to travel within Downtown Kissimmee.

Designed to serve as a last-mile solution for commuters arriving at the SunRail/Intermodal Station, the service will now cover both inner and outer zones around the station, making it easier for riders to reach their destinations conveniently.

and Residents

Visitors and residents will now be able to travel to locations like the US Post Office for essential services, Oak Street Ballpark for sports and activities, and numerous local businesses, adding to the previous destinations of Valencia College, HCA Florida Osceola Hospital, the Kissimmee Medical Arts District, City Hall, Osceola County Courthouse, Kissimmee Lakefront Park, and many others.

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

Get Ahead of the Storm: Essential Tips and Resources from KUA

It’s National Hurricane Preparedness Week from May 5 to May 11, and KUA wants to remind you about the importance of preparing for the upcoming hurricane season. Having emergency preparations completed before a hurricane watch or warning is issued is critical.

When a storm alert is announced, take care of last-minute tasks quickly. Make sure emergency supplies like food, water, batteries, pet essentials, and first aid kits are fresh and sufficient. Create a list for any missing items and get them promptly. Fill your car with gas, check the oil and tires, and have evacuation essentials ready.

Chamber of

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.

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.

Osceola County Expands Senior Smiles Mobile Denture Program for Greater Access and Care

Senior citizens in select areas of Osceola County now have even more reasons to smile, thanks to the Senior Smiles program—a county initiative launched in 2023 by District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer. Senior Smiles provides affordable and accessible denture services through a collaboration between the Osceola County Commission and Osceola Community Health Services, and is now available to qualifying seniors in additional areas of the county.

Senior Smiles Osceola offers comprehensive services, including full dentures, partials, X-rays, and extractions, all carried out on a mobile dental trailer equipped with two exam rooms. This allows the Osceola Community Health Services team to deliver quality dental care directly to seniors ages 55 and older.

Funding for the program has now been expanded through the American Rescue Plan Act to reach even more areas within the county. District 4 Commissioner Cheryl Grieb recently distributed vouchers for free dentures to Hope Partnership in Downtown Kissimmee that will make it possible for 45 qualified seniors to receive no-cost dentures and denture services.

Addition Financial Credit Union Expands Partnership with Osceola County School District to Launch Student-

Operated Branch at Osceola High School

Addition Financial Credit Union and the School District of Osceola County have announced an expansion of their High School Branch Program partnership, with plans to open a student-run Addition Financial branch at Osceola High School.

Addition Financial’s High School Branch Program is designed to introduce young people to financial literacy and money management skills. The credit union will provide full training to Osceola High School students who are accepted into the program and will prepare them to fully staff and run the credit union branch, to be located on the Osceola High School campus.

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.

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

Orlando Health: Rebuilding Body Image After Cancer

Your body image changes frequently throughout your life. For cancer patients, this can be particularly difficult to manage as cancer can quickly and dramatically change the way their body looks and functions.

Certain cancers require treatment options that may result in temporary or permanent physical changes. Some of these changes include:

• Hair loss due to chemotherapy, radiation or as a side effect of other drugs

• Incontinence, particularly if you’ve had your prostate or bladder removed for treatment

• Sudden weight gain or loss, which can be caused by steroids given during treatment, or lack of appetite or dehydration throughout treatment

Martha Aragon Lopez, MD

In a move that underscores a steadfast commitment to education and community prosperity, Osceola County has once again cast a unanimous vote in favor of the transformative Osceola Prosper program. During Monday’s County Commission meeting, all five commissioners earmarked an impressive $8.3 million to continue fueling this initiative that has already begun reshaping the educational landscape for local students.

Making Business

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.

Patrick Fording Emerson, MD Orthopedic Surgery Orlando Health

Orlando Health: Prevent Dog-Walking Injuries with These Tips HEALTH

Taking your dog on regular walks is good for your pooch – and for you, too. Walking doesn’t only provide “man’s best friend” some outdoor time, it also decreases the risk for obesity, high blood pressure and heart-related conditions for both of you.

But it’s not uncommon to suffer an injury while being out and about with your furry friend. A study by JAMA Surgery revealed that dog-walking increases the risk of fractures in older American adults.

Being prepared and following a few safety suggestions before heading outside can decrease these risks.

WHAT CAN GO WRONG?

Dogs are easily distracted. When something catches your dog’s attention and they make a break for it, you could end up getting hurt.

From the way you grip a leash to the shoes you wear, you could seriously injure yourself if you aren’t prepared. Some common dog-walking injuries include:

• Wrist, hip, elbow and finger fractures, including cracked or broken bones

• Rotator cuff tears, which affect the tissues that connect muscle to bone in the shoulder

• Proximal humerus fracture, or injury of the humerus bone in the shoulder joint TIPS FOR SAFER DOG WALKING

Doctors see patients who fall because of being dragged by their distracted dog and then suffer fractures or sprains when they try to break their fall with their hands. A few tips can help.

Never wrap your leash around your wrist or fingers. If your dog suddenly moves at a faster speed, you’ll struggle to detach yourself. This could also result in a bad fall or a finger or wrist sprain.

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. Elevate Your Child’s Learning Experience With Pre-K through 8th Grade Creative Inspiration Journey School in St. Cloud

Up. We’re Here. We know emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. With 14 ER locations throughout Central Florida, we’re ready to provide expert emergency care if you’re facing one. No matter which one you choose, you’ll find a place where chaos meets calm and uncertainty finds answers. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/ER

IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS

Gatorland, Central Florida’s First Attraction to Kick Off Historic 75th Anniversary in May

Gatorland is making history this year! Central Florida’s very first attraction that opened in 1949 is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and is inviting the public to this Diamond Jubilee Celebration with all the fun and games of the Fifth Annual Gatorpalooza Weekend, May 18-19, 2024.

Gatorpalooza 2024, included with park admission, will feature music, specialty food, craft vendors, artisans, family fun, games, appearances by the Gatorland Vlog Team and, of course, all the alligators, animals, and awesomeness that a day at Gatorland has to offer. Gator Gully Splash Park, also included in park admission, is great way for kids and adults to cool down and have fun.

SeaWorld’s Viva la Música: Celebrate Latin Culture

Every Weekend from June 1 to June 30

Experience the vibrant color and rich culture of Viva la Música, returning to SeaWorld for five festive weekends from June 1st to June 30th. This family-friendly Latin celebration is included with park admission and features an array of Latin entertainment, from thrilling live music to dynamic dance performances. With the park’s coolest attractions and animal adventures as your backdrop, each Saturday and Sunday will offer something exciting for everyone. Don’t miss out on the sound, spice, and spirit of this special event that captures the essence of Latin culture.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3JU6DQZ

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to Open June 28 at Walt Disney World Resort

Get ready to “Drop on in” with Princess Tiana this summer, as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort on June 28!

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure invites guests to join beloved characters Princess Tiana, Mama Odie, Louis, and all-new friends on a thrilling adventure, all set against the music and excitement of a New Orleans celebration. This new attraction will feature dozens of Audio-Animatronics figures, a foot-tapping soundtrack, and a celebration where everyone’s welcome. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is replacing Splash Mountain at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, which closed in January 2023.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4bBpD2g

Splash into Cinema: Island H2O’s Dive In Movie Nights from May 31 to July 26

Grab your popcorn and get ready for a summer full of cinematic splashes at Island H2O Water Park! Every Friday from May 31 to July 26, starting at 6 PM, families and friends can gather to watch a series of beloved films on Central Florida’s LARGEST Outdoor Digital Wave Pool Screen. Each movie night is a unique opportunity to enjoy blockbuster hits and family favorites in a vibrant, poolside setting. As a special treat, Season Passholders receive a FREE bag of popcorn at every screening. Don’t forget to check our website for any updates to the movie lineup!

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44GuvAR

POSITIVELY DELICIOUS

Refreshing Treats: Watermelon Cupcakes with Lemon Frosting

Delight in the positively delicious and whimsical treat of Florida Watermelon Cupcakes. This unique dessert replaces traditional cupcake batter with fresh, juicy slices of Florida watermelon, creating a refreshing and light base. The watermelon is topped with a rich, creamy layer of cream cheese frosting, enhanced with a zest of lemon for a burst of citrus flavor. This inventive dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a sweet, hydrating bite that’s sure to impress.

Positively Delicious Hearty Harvest: Florida Chicken, Sweet Potato & Kale Salad

Enjoy a nutritious and vibrant meal with Florida Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Salad. This positively delicious dish combines tender grilled chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and fresh kale, tossed together for a wholesome and satisfying salad. Ideal for a lunch or light dinner, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy Florida’s fresh produce and proteins.

Sunshine in a Bowl: Florida’s Ultimate Tropical Fruit Salad, It’s Positively Delicious

This Florida Tropical Fruit Salad is a positively delicious celebration of Florida’s finest produce. This refreshing blend of colorful fruits is perfectly sweetened with a hint of local orange blossom honey, creating a delightful treat that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. Enjoy this luscious salad on a sunny day for a true taste of tropical paradise.

POSITIVELY DELICIOUS

Peach Perfection: Flaky Puff Pastry Dessert

Savor the positively delicious taste of Florida Peach Puff Pastry, a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the light, flaky texture of puff pastry. This simple yet elegant treat is perfect for any occasion, featuring thinly sliced peaches layered atop buttery pastry, baked until golden brown. The result is a warm, inviting dish that beautifully showcases the natural flavors and aromas of Florida peaches. Ideal for a sweet end to any meal or as a lovely afternoon snack.

Snackable & Savory: Florida’s Finest Broccoli Tots

Experience the crispy, golden delight of Florida Broccoli Tots, a positively delicious twist on a classic favorite. Made with fresh Florida broccoli and a hint of cheese, these tots are baked to perfection, offering a crunchy outside with a tender, flavorful inside. Perfect as a snack or a side, they’re a healthy, tasty option that brings a burst of flavor to any meal.

Positively Delicious Savory Sensations: Florida Chicken, Mushroom & Bacon Melt

Indulge in the positively delicious flavors of a Florida Chicken, Mushroom, and Bacon Melt. This mouthwatering sandwich layers tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and crisp bacon under a blanket of melted cheese, all nestled between toasted bread. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of hearty, rich flavors, making it a perfect choice for a fulfilling meal.