Positively Osceola News Today, Osceola County's Leading and Trusted Source For Local News
Osceola Chamber Hosts Osceola Hob Nob, Spotlighting Candidates In and Around Osceola
Celebrate Christmas in July With Mr. and Mrs. Claus at Lake Nona Town Center July 19 and 20!
Kissimmee Public Works Completes Crucial Debris Removal at Mill Slough Canal
Tawny Olore Named CEO of National Science Foundation Engines at NeoCity, Osceola County’s 500-acre Tech Campus
Kissimmee Police Department Unveils ‘Vacation Watch Program’ for Enhanced Home Security
Secure Your Firearms: Central Florida’s Billboard Campaign Targets Gun Safety Featured Videos
Florida’s Closed Primary System: What You Need to Know to Vote
ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS
LIVE with Creative Inspiration
Journey School Founder and CEO
Patty Marquis
April 18th, 2024
LIVE with City of St. Cloud's Communications Director Maryemma Bachelder
June 6th, 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
Boating With Brandon Episode One
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.“
Boating With Brandon Episode Two
“Boating with Brandon” 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 pace of Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures at Southport, guided by the skilled Captain Chris Bryan. Joining Commissioner Arrington is ClickOrlando’s Trooper Steve Montiero.
Boating With Brandon Episode Three
Joining Commissioner Brandon Arrington in Episode Three of "Boating With Brandon" is Osceola County Commissioner for District 5, Ricky Booth, who delves into the rich history and natural beauty of the county’s scenic waterways, including Trout Lake, Lake Lizzie, Buck Lake, and East Lake Tohopekaliga. This episode showcases the beautiful biodiversity in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.
Don Schmidt Roofing
Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the finest materials and craftmanship.
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
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
Osceola Chamber Hosts Osceola Hob Nob, Spotlighting Candidates In and Around Osceola
The Kissimmee Civic Center was transformed into a bustling hub of political activity with its Osceola Chamber’s Hob Nob event. During election years, the event serves as an invaluable platform for candidates to engage directly with the voters of Osceola County, hoping to convince them that they are the best choice for the office they seek.
All candidates running in races that are involved with Osceola County at the local, state, or national level were invited to pre-record a brief statement for the event to help event attendees become better acquainted with their platforms and positions. These video statements played in loop throughout the event and can be viewed on the Chamber’s website theosceolachamber.com.
In addition, all candidates were invited to participate in the event with a physical booth space alongside our sponsors and other member businesses. Candidates with booth spaces also participated in a “Parade of Candidates” emceed by Chamber President/CEO John Newstreet.
“The Osceola Chamber was pleased to host our Hob Nob for the community. As the saying goes, ‘Elections have consequences,’ and businesses of all sizes are feeling great pressure today and for the foreseeable future due. Attendees were able to engage candidates, vote in our straw poll, and build their network. The event showcased candidates across the spectrum on the Osceola ballot and highlighted how ‘Business Works Better Together,” Chamber President John Newstreet said at Wednesday’s Hob Nob.
Celebrate Christmas in July With Mr. and Mrs. Claus at Lake Nona Town Center July 19 and 20!
Get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season a little early this year at Lake Nona Town Center on Friday July 20 and Saturday 21 when the center will be transformed into a winter wonderland for a special Christmas in July celebration.
Come make merry with live entertainment, festive carolers, and a special visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus themselves! It’s the perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit, enjoy some family fun, and create unforgettable memories.
For those looking to get a head start on their Christmas shopping, Art After Dark will be hosting a very special Christmas edition. This unique event, beginning at 6pm, will feature local artists and vendors offering a variety of handcrafted gifts and holiday goodies. Plus, Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be there, and rumor has it they might be joined by a couple of elves directly from the North Pole!
With a vibrant mix of holiday cheer and summer fun, Christmas in July at Lake Nona Town Center promises to be an enchanting event for all ages. So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and head over to Lake Nona for two days of festive fun under the summer sun.
Drive to Make a Positive Difference: Osceola Council on Aging’s Annual Jeep Raffle Returns Beginning July 1
Start your engines! The Osceola Council on Aging has announced the return of its annual Jeep Raffle Fundraiser, beginning July 1. All proceeds from this event go directly towards their programs and services, helping the advocacy agency to continue providing vital assistance to those in our community who need it most. By purchasing tickets, you’ll not only have the opportunity to win a beautiful new Jeep but also make a meaningful impact on the lives of your neighbors in need.
Ticket donations start on July 1, 2024, with each ticket priced at $25. There is no limit to the number of tickets you can purchase, and the more tickets you buy, the greater your chances of winning. The raffle is open to legal residents of the United States who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry, excluding executive staff of the Osceola Council on Aging. Tickets can be purchased at designated locations or online through the OCOA official website at osceolagenerations.org.
The raffle drawing will take place on December 31, 2024, at 11 am Eastern Time at 700 Generation Point, Kissimmee, FL 34744. You do not need to be present to win. The winner will be notified immediately by phone and email. If the winner cannot be contacted or fails to claim the prize within 30 days of notification, an alternate winner will be selected. The prize, a 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport S, must be accepted as awarded and is non-transferable and non-exchangeable. The winner is responsible for all taxes, fees, and costs associated with the prize, including registration, title, licensing, insurance, and any travel or transportation costs.
Mecum Auctions Returns to Osceola Heritage Park Today with Florida Summer Special Auction Featuring 1,500 Classic and Exotic Vehicles
Building on the tremendous success of The World’s Largest Collector Car Auction® held annually at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida, Mecum Auctions returns to Osceola County today for a Summer Special auction from July 10-13. This highenergy event will feature approximately 1,500 vehicles, including American muscle cars, classics, Corvettes, trucks, exotics, Hot Rods, and custom cars, all of which will be showcased and broadcast live on MotorTrendTV and Max.
This year’s January Kissimmee auction achieved a world-record $234 million in sales with another world record of more than 4,000 lots crossing the auction block throughout the duration of the event. The annual auction also became the first-ever collector car auction to eclipse the $200 million mark in sales in consecutive years, demonstrating an undeniable pattern of success for the Florida auction location and spurring on the continued staging of the summer auction edition, now in its fourth year and still growing in popularity.
Osceola Heritage Park will once again be transformed into a lively and unbeatably diverse car show-style display when the 1,500 auction-bound vehicles converge there in the coming week for the July 10-13 event, and with a selection of vendors and food options on-site, there is plenty to keep attendees and their families entertained throughout the entire three-day auction.
Orlando Health’s Hospital Care at Home reaches 1,000th patient milestone serving Central Florida residents
Orlando Health’s Hospital Care at Home, a program that provides acute hospital-level care in adult patients’ residences, has served 1,000 patients in Central Florida since its launch in February 2023.
The program, available to Orlando Health patients who meet specific clinical criteria determined by emergency department and hospital staff, is now available through Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Osceola, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Randal Park, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Lake Mary, Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital.
Secure Your Firearms: Central Florida’s Billboard Campaign Targets Gun Safety
A powerful message about gun safety is being broadcast across Central Florida through ten strategically placed billboards. The Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office has launched a campaign featuring Orange County Sheriff John Mina and Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez, emphasizing the critical importance of responsible firearm storage to help reduce gun violence in the community.
Every nine minutes, at least one gun is stolen from a car in the United States, according to research by Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund. This alarming statistic highlights a significant and growing issue in the country, with substantial implications for public safety. The theft of firearms from vehicles has tripled over the past decade, making it the largest source of stolen guns. These stolen firearms frequently end up being used in other crimes, including violent offenses, thereby exacerbating the problem of gun violence across communities.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3S2id0E
Kissimmee Police Department Unveils ‘Vacation Watch Program’ for Enhanced Home Security
The City of Kissimmee Police Department has announced the Vacation Watch Program, a program that allows residents of single-family homes to notify the police department when their homes will be vacant during vacation periods. Residents can complete a registration form online, providing information that will help officers monitor their property while they are away.
The program is managed by the Community Engagement Unit (CEU). Applications submitted by residents are reviewed, and the pertinent information is distributed to officers who patrol the areas.
Calling All Young Cooks: Compete in Florida Future Chef 2024 Competition!
Florida Future Chef 2024 invites budding young chefs, ages 7 to 13 to showcase their culinary talents by preparing their favorite dishes. Participants can submit a video, 2-5 minutes long, demonstrating the preparation of a dish using in-season Florida commodities. This is a fantastic opportunity for young cooks to get creative in the kitchen and share their culinary skills with a panel of judges who will evaluate the entries.
Don’t miss your chance to enter the Florida Future Chef Competition before the July 12 deadline! Submit your entry video through the provided link and get ready to impress the judges. The top three finalists selected from the submissions will compete in the exciting in-person Florida Future Chef Finale in Tampa September 9-11. This event will be a grand showcase of young culinary talent, with participants presenting their best dishes and vying for the title of Florida Future Chef.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Rz6G8L
Sip, Shop, and Savor on Saturdays at the Downtown
St. Cloud Farmers Market: Enjoy New Summer Hours!
Discover the charm and vibrancy of the Downtown St. Cloud Farmers Market, now with new summer hours! Every Saturday, from 9 AM to 1 PM, New York Avenue and 9th Street come alive with a bustling marketplace offering an array of fresh produce, delectable treats, and unique crafts.
At the market, you can start your day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a sweet pastry, then explore the stalls brimming with farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. Indulge in handmade crafts and savor savory delights from local vendors.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4aZaMhs
Florida’s Closed Primary System: What You Need to Know to Vote
In the upcoming primary elections on August 20, voters in Florida must remember that the state operates under a closed primary system. This means that only voters registered with a specific political party are eligible to vote for their party’s candidates in the primary election. Understanding this system is crucial for participating effectively in Florida’s electoral process.
WHAT IS A CLOSED PRIMARY?
A closed primary system restricts voting in primary elections to those who are registered members of a political party. In Florida, this means:
• Registered Republicans can only vote for Republican candidates.
• Registered Democrats can only vote for Democratic candidates.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4citHVx
Tawny Olore Named CEO of National Science Foundation Engines at NeoCity, Osceola County’s 500-acre Tech Campus
The U.S. National Science Foundation has announced Tawny Olore, P.E., as the new CEO of the Central Florida Semiconductor Innovation Engine. Led by BRIDG, a not-forprofit, public-private partnership specializing in advanced system integration and packaging, the Engine is dedicated to inclusive regional economic development. Ms. Olore, a seasoned expert in development and project launches in Central Florida, will spearhead this innovative, collaborative, and technology-driven initiative at Osceola County’s 500-acre technology campus, NeoCity.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3zw9ptM
PARK NEWS
Dive Into Fun at Aquatica Orlando's New AquaGlow: A Dazzling Neon Nighttime Swim Party!
Aquatica Orlando has unveiled AquaGlow, an electrifying nighttime swim party that transforms the award winning waterpark into a vibrant neon wonderland. Launched on Friday night, this all-new event features the dazzling Electric Tides laser show over the iconic wave pool and an illuminated lazy river with glowing tubes, creating a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
A standout feature of AquaGlow is the transformation of Roa’s Rapids into Roa’s Rapids Amp’ed Up! Guests drift through a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and mist effects, elevating their nighttime adventure.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Rl3C06
Brick by Brick: LEGOLAND Florida's Summer Brick Party Brings Back Non-Stop Fun!
LEGOLAND Florida Resort has announced its annual and most anticipated summer event, Summer Brick Party! Through August 11, families, and LEGO aficionados of all ages are in for a treat with new and thrilling shows, characters, and mouthwatering seasonal treats.
The Park’s beloved characters, including LEGO Shark Suit Guy, will be making a return, along with events like Red, White & BOOM!, the Park’s annual 4th of July celebration and more.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is heating up with adrenaline-pumping shows! Catch the highflying action of Go Xtreme! where you’ll be on the edge of your seat as stunt performers compete for fame on LEGO City’s hit TV show soaring on skateboards, stunt bikes and more. Stick around after the show to meet the newest character, “LEGO Producer” for pictures and high fives.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Ra2Inc
PARK NEWS
Country Bear Musical Jamboree: Reimagined Fun at Magic Kingdom
Get ready for a foot-stomping good time as the beloved Country Bear Musical Jamboree returns to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
After a comprehensive upgrade and refreshing update, this fan-favorite attraction will make its grand debut on July 17, 2024, bringing a fresh yet familiar experience to both seasoned park-goers and new visitors.
The Country Bear Musical Jamboree has been a staple of Magic Kingdom's Frontierland since its inception, delighting guests with its charming blend of humor, music, and animatronic artistry.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3RrF7OW
Universal Orlando to Unveil Ghostbusters Frozen Empire Haunted House for Halloween Horror Nights Beginning August 30
A new evil force, unleashed by an ancient artifact, threatens to destroy the world in the allnew haunted houses inspired by Sony Pictures’ latest film, “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.” The new haunted houses will debut at Universal Orlando Resort on Friday, August 30.
The all-new “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” haunted house at Universal Orlando Resort bring the latest installment of the global Ghostbusters franchise to life as well as iconic ghosts, creatures and characters from the beloved classic series in an authentic haunted house that captures the horror and humor for which the films are known. “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” will transport fans of the film franchise to New York City where the Spengler family teams up with the original Ghostbusters who are now at the helm of a top-secret research lab for their ghost-busting enterprise.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3znh25C
Floridians can look forward to significant savings this summer with the return of the ‘Freedom Month’ sales tax holiday. Running from July 1 through July 31, 2024, this initiative, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, aims to ease the financial burden on families by eliminating sales tax on a wide range of recreational items and activities.
The ‘Freedom Month’ sales tax holiday encompasses a variety of items and services, making it easier for families to enjoy their summer without worrying about additional costs. From tickets to concerts and sports events to essential outdoor gear, the tax break covers a broad spectrum of summer essentials.
Osceola County Realtors Association to Launch “The
REAL
Center” Real Estate Academy & Licensing in August
If you’re interested in becoming a real estate agent and ultimately a REALTOR®, the Osceola County Realtors Association is offering an exciting opportunity this August. The REAL Center: Real Estate Academy & Licensing, powered by Osceola REALTORS®, is dedicated to providing high-quality education tailored to the needs of busy individuals aspiring to enter the dynamic real estate industry.
The REAL Center, offers pre-licensing courses designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic real estate market. The curriculum, taught by Thomas Longmoore, a seasoned real estate expert with over 20 years of experience. is in-person and fully accredited, ensuring students receive a comprehensive up-to-date education with the tools they need to succeed in their new careers.
Hurricanes and Tropical Deluges in Florida Boost Threat From the 'World's Deadliest Animal'
Floridians and tourists flock outdoors in the Sunshine State during the summer months and may not realize that the world's deadliest animal is an ever-present uninvited guest.
Mosquitoes, stealthy and virtually invisible, are enjoying the weather and thriving in every outdoor setting. And they bring a serious health risk with them, potentially carrying diseases like Dengue fever, Zika, malaria, West Nile virus and Equine Encephalitis.
KUA Releases 2024 Hurricane Preparedness Guide
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.
In the Loop
Penguin Trek Set to Chill and Thrill at SeaWorld Orlando
Starting July 7
SeaWorld Orlando is about to get even cooler with the grand opening of its highly anticipated new ride, Penguin Trek. Slated to open on July 7, this unique family launch coaster promises a one-of-a-kind adventure through the icy expanse of Antarctica.
Penguin Trek invites thrill-seekers to board snowmobiles and join an expedition team racing through a breathtaking Antarctic landscape. With speeds reaching up to 43 miles per hour, riders will experience a series of twists, turns, and close calls as they navigate the dangers of a crumbling ice cavern.
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
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
Florida State Guard Enhances Statewide Readiness to Protect Floridians During Hurricane Season
This week, the Florida State Guard (FSG) completed their first annual training since Governor DeSantis’ reactivation of the agency in June 2022. During the 14-day mission rehearsal exercise, Soldiers underwent a series of rigorous simulations to test their emergency response proficiencies in the aftermath of a catastrophic hurricane with multi-county impacts.
After officially launching four operational units, the FSG exercised new ground, maritime, and aviation capabilities during the activation of over 300 personnel.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/45N3zA9
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.
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.
Get Ahead of the Storm: Essential Tips and Resources from KUA
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.
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.
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
Robert P. Olson, MD Orlando Health
Orlando Health: Avoid Sunburn with These Tips
Almost all of us have experienced a sunburn at some point in our lives. But getting a sunburn is dangerous because it increases your risk of developing skin cancer — one of the most common types of cancers in the world. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer over the course of their lifetime.
THE STAGES OF SUNBURN
Sunburn is actually a radiation burn caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. When you’ve had too much sun, the skin turns red and painful within a few hours. Sunburn symptoms tend to worsen within 24 to 36 hours, and it can take anywhere from days to weeks, depending on the severity of the burn, to feel better.
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.
IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS
LEGOLAND’s Summer Brick Party: Family Fun from June 1 to August 11
From June 1 to August 11, LEGOLAND®
Florida Resort is bringing back the Summer Brick Party, a celebration packed with fun activities included with your park admission or select annual passes. Get ready for thrilling shows, favorite characters, and special summer treats across various areas of the park. It’s an exciting way to soak up the sunny season with family and friends, offering everything from live entertainment to tasty food and drinks—all in one place.
Catch the action at the Go Xtreme! stunt show and Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show, where energy and excitement fill the air. These shows are perfect for families looking for fun and laughter, featuring high-energy stunts and spectacular performances. Plus, meet some of LEGOLAND’s coolest characters, like the Shark Suit Guy, who’s always up for a photo and ready to add a splash of fun to your visit.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4e3ZE5F
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
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.
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.
This Pan-Seared Florida Culotte Steak is a positively delicious choice for any meat lover, offering a rich and savory experience. This tender cut is expertly seared to achieve a perfect crust, locking in its natural juices and enhancing its robust flavors. Simple yet luxurious, this steak is sure to impress at any dinner table.
Coastal Cravings: Positively Delicious Florida Blue Crab Panini
This Florida Blue Crab Panini is a positively delicious twist on the classic sandwich. Bursting with the fresh, sweet flavors of local blue crab, this panini is grilled to crispy perfection, melding the delicate crab with a melty, creamy cheese. Ideal for a luxurious lunch or a satisfying dinner, it’s a gourmet treat that brings a taste of the Florida coast right to your table.
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.
