Haines City Drops St. Cloud 34-6, Apopka

Haines City Drops St. Cloud 34-6, Apopka
Fandom Kissimmee 2023: Where Fantasy, Sci-fi Passion, and Pop Culture Converge
NOAA forecasters increase Atlantic hurricane season prediction to above normal, preparation is key to safety
Osceola County Weather: More Heat, Less Rain Saturday Than Sunday, Tropical Wave to Bring Scattered Storms to Osceola
Osceola County School District Announces Dates for 2024 Graduation Ceremonies
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LIVE as the Central Florida Expressway Authority speaks about the Southport
Connector Expressway at Valencia College’s Poinciana Campus
LIVE for the grand opening of the renovated Cannery Park building in the City of St. Cloud
LIVE as Suncoast Credit Union, Florida’s largest credit union, celebrates the Grand Opening of its first branch in Central Florida
LIVE at Carinos Cafe for their ribbon cutting as they officially share the, “hall of umbrellas” with the community!
LIVE for the City of St. Cloud, Floridas 4th of July Fireworks Show
LIVE with District 46 State Representative Kristen Arrington
July 26th, 2023
LIVE with Michelle Incandela of Draper Law Office
July 19th, 2023
LIVE with new Osceola School District Superintendent, Dr. Mark Shanoff
June 26th, 2023
LIVE with Michelle Incandela of Draper Law Office
June 21st, 2023
LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office
April 19th, 2023
The Mayor’s Minute with Nathan Blackwell, Mayor of the City of St. Cloud, Florida. Homeschool Open House will be held on August 25th at the Chris Lyle Aquatic Center. The City is asking for residents’ input to help plan The Ranch - a 219 acre park in St. Cloud.
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!
With the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season here, Kissimmee Utility Authority has released its 2023 Osceola Hurricane Handbook, a free, bilingual, comprehensive preparedness guide offered annually to Osceola County residents.
Every Tuesday is Talent Tuesday at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital from 1-3pm.
Check out the lineup for SeaWorld Orlando’s Summer Spectacular Concert Series every Saturday and Sunday night from July 8th to August 6th.
It was mixed reviews for both the St. Cloud and Osceola high school football teams as they went through their final dress rehearsals on Friday night prior to the start of the 2023 regular season.
At Austin-Tindall Park, St. Cloud dropped a 34-6 decision to Haines City; while the Kowboys lost a 16-15 decision to state power Apopka in its pre-season Kickoff Classic. Both games were exhibitions and do not count on the regular season record.
“To tell you the truth, I really thought we played well tonight,” Osceola head coach Eric Pinellas said. “We had a few first half jitters but I thought we moved the ball well on offense and I thought our defense put up an excellent effort against a really talented, well-coached team.”
Trailing 3-0 in the game, quarterback Cam West hit Notorious Reynolds on a slant for a touchdown and a 7-3 lead. Although the Kowboys would fall behind 10-7 and never regain the lead, Pinellas said he was happy with his team’s effort. “Our offensive line played really well and we were able to establish a running game. Both of our quarterbacks made some plays and our young secondary really did some good things. With only two starters back between our defensive line and linebacker group, I thought they also played extremely well. For a first game against a really good opponent, I saw a lot of positives out there.”
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OOUrDc
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Fandom Kissimmee, an exhilarating fantasy, sci-fi and comic book convention extravaganza will captivate the hearts of enthusiasts from all corners of the pop culture universe on Saturday, September 16 from 12pm – 5pm.
The much-anticipated 2023 Fandom Kissimmee event is just around the corner, promising a spellbinding fusion of all things geek, from comics and movies to gaming and more. This year’s gathering will once again seamlessly meld an array of pop culture elements, creating an immersive experience that caters to a diverse range of interests. Whether you’re a die-hard comic book aficionado, a gaming virtuoso, a movie buff, or an avid follower of fantasy and scifi literature, there’s something for everyone at this year’s event.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3QKyS9q
Scientists at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center — a division of the National Weather Service — have increased their prediction for the ongoing 2023 Atlantic hurricane season from a near-normal level of activity to an above-normal level of activity. Forecasters believe that current ocean and atmospheric conditions, such as record-warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures, are likely to counterbalance the usually limiting atmospheric conditions associated with the ongoing El Nino event.
NOAA forecasters have increased the likelihood of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season to 60% (increased from the outlook issued in May, which predicted a 30% chance). The likelihood of near-normal activity has decreased to 25%, down from the 40% chances outlined in May’s outlook. This new update gives the Atlantic a 15% chance of seeing a below-normal season.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3quMBqa
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NOAA forecasters
hurricane season prediction to above normal, preparation is key
Happy Saturday Osceola! Rain chances will be a bit lower today at 50 percent today with showers and thunderstorms more likely after 2pm. Partly sunny and hot with a high temp around 93. Heat index values as high as 106. Light east wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Remember to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, and stay out of the sun as much as possible today. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Try to take breaks out of the sun, use sunscreen, and stay hydrated at all times!
Tonight
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. East wind 5 to 10 mph.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3YDkIsB
The Osceola County School District has officially announced the dates and times for its 2024 Graduation Ceremonies!
*May 20, 2024 – Location: Osceola County School for the Arts
Osceola County School for the Arts at 6:00 p.m.
*May 21, 2024 – Location: Osceola Heritage Park
Poinciana High School at 1:30 p.m.
Tohopekaliga High School at 5:30 p.m.
*May 22, 2024 – Location: Osceola Heritage Park
Liberty High School at 9:30 a.m.
Harmony High School at 1:30 p.m.
Osceola High School at 5:30 p.m.
*May 23, 2024 – Location: Osceola Heritage Park
Celebration High School at 9:30 a.m.
St. Cloud High School at 1:30 p.m.
Gateway High School at 5:30 p.m.
*May 24, 2024 – Location: Osceola Heritage Park
Osceola Virtual School/Zenith Accelerated Learning Academy at 9:30 a.m.
NeoCity Academy at 12:30 p.m.
Professional and Technical High School (PATHS) at 3:30 p.m.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/45dfTZf
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When the heat index in the Kissimmee region topped 110 degrees on Tuesday, residents set a new all-time record for electricity use.
Kissimmee Utility Authority recorded an instantaneous system peak of 439.2 megawatts at 5:12 p.m. on Tuesday. On Monday, the utility recorded a system peak load of 435.7 megawatts, shattering the previous record of 416.2 set on July 13, 2022.
With heat indices forecasted to remain above 100 degrees through next week, air conditioners are working overtime. KUA offers the following energy-saving tips that require little or no expense and can help to reduce summertime energy costs:
• Set the thermostat on the highest comfortable setting (KUA recommends 78-80 degrees). Raising the temperature just two degrees can reduce cooling costs by as much as five percent.
• Change or clean air conditioner filters monthly. Dirty filters can increase operating costs by 20 percent.
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The Osceola Council On Aging has revved up its highly anticipated 4th Annual Car Raffle Fundraiser, an exciting event that promises to make dreams come true for both the lucky winner and the local senior community.
The 4th Annual Car Raffle Fundraiser is a testament to the OCOA’s commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of seniors, and brings together the community, local businesses, and philanthropic individuals in a spirit of generosity and camaraderie. This year’s lucky ticket will be drawn 30 minutes prior to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 29, 2023.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3rWR6tE
Last season, the Osceola Kowboys broke through a glass ceiling by winning their first regional championship and advancing to the state Final Four. Although Osceola lost three key players to graduation, the Lady Kowboys are once again loaded this season and should be poised for another run at the Class 7A title. Osceola is one of several talented teams in the county this season with high aspirations. With the 2023 season beginning, let’s take a look around the county:
Celebration
Head Coach: Pedro Davila
2022 Record: 9-4
Although head coach Pedro Davila graduated seven of his top 12 players off of last year’s 9-4 team, it’s a pretty good bet that the long-time highly successful club and high school coach will find a way to field a competitive team in 2023. With All-OBC selections Bruna Braga-Manthozinho and Joharis Castillo departing via graduation, Davila is left with one returning starter – Lauren Perez – who will move from middle to outside hitter. Celebration and Davila has always taken a “team first before individual accolades” approach and he simply said the Strom will have at least three freshmen in their 2023 starting lineup. “We have some talent but we are going to be a young team. It may take a year or two to gel, but our goal is to definitely be competitive this year.”
Gateway
Head Coach Heidi Lizardi
2022 Record: 79
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Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital has achieved national recognition with the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award. The award recognizes the hospital’s dedication to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.
“This award reaffirms our commitment to improving stroke care,” said Amit Bansal, MD, chief quality officer, Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. “We are proud of our dedicated team, who continue to make significant strides in early stroke detection and treatment, which is key to improving a patient’s health and recovery.”
Get With The Guidelines – Stroke, is an in-hospital program for improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize the longterm effects of a stroke and prevent death.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3pYJcj6
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In an effort to ensure safer roads and instill responsible driving habits in young individuals, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office offers a very special program called the Teen Driver Challenge. Aimed at equipping teen drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the challenges of the road, this initiative has proven to be a significant step towards reducing accidents and promoting road safety. The next class is scheduled for August 19 at the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Training Facility, located at 3901 Arthur J Gallagher Blvd. in St. Cloud.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OrqCbq
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Osceola County roads are about to get more crowded – and hazardous as nearly 70,000 students prepare to return to school in the Osceola County School District. This time of year is particularly dangerous due to the combination of young inexperienced drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists who will all share the road in the early morning and afternoon hours.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 64 percent of child pedestrians killed in traffic crashes occurred during the weekday (6 a.m. Monday to 6:00 p.m. Friday) in 2021 (NHTSA Traffic Safety Facts).
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ql2YW0
Osceola County Mosquito Control is urging its residents to remain proactive throughout the year in safeguarding the community against bothersome and disease-carrying mosquitoes. Recently, the Florida Department of Health (FLDOH) issued a mosquito-borne illness advisory for the local transmission of Malaria in Sarasota County.
“OCMC continuously monitors mosquito populations, and we take action as populations start to increase or disease is identified in our area,” said Natural Resource Manager Susan Gosselin.
Malaria is transmitted by a certain type of mosquito, Anopheles quadrimaculatus, which is currently at low population levels in freshwater swamp areas of Osceola County. OCMC is very aware of the concern of residents and is keeping a close eye on the situation.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3qaSRTO
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Osceola County held a groundbreaking event on Monday for Fire Station 85, strategically located along Cypress Parkway. This pivotal addition not only signifies a step forward in enhancing public safety in the area, but also elevates the total count of stations within the County to 16. Station 85 station is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing emergency response capabilities and providing timely assistance to the community.
The new station is important because it relocates existing Osceola County units from a station within Polk County to a more efficient location in Osceola County, allowing the department to better serve residents.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44bBXCv
The St. Cloud Police Department will partner with One Blood on Tuesday, August 15th from 11am to 4pm at the St. Cloud Police Department, offering citizens a convenient location for donating blood, and helping to save lives.
The St. Cloud PD donation site is for everyone 16 years and older. Donors who are 16 years old will need parental permission, and everyone planning to donate will need to present a valid ID to donate.
To schedule an appointment, visit oneblood.org/donate-now and use sponsor code #23834.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3XHEOkL
Meatable, a Dutch food company, is aiming to deliver ‘cultivated’ meat that looks like, tastes like, and has the nutritional profile of traditional meat. The proprietary optiox™ technology they use enables Meatable to produce meat rapidly, sustainably, and without harming animals.
Impossible Foods, founded in 2011 in California, produces popular food products that contain a meaty flavor using plants. The company has seen growth in consumption over the last few years, and can now be purchased in grocery stores, fast-food restaurants, and in fine-dining establishments. READ
More than 550 million views on TikTok can’t be wrong: Cottage cheese is hot. Blended into ice cream or bread dough or straight off the spoon, it’s fun to watch Gen Z discover the creamy goodness your grandmother loved.
But cottage cheese goes back further than that — curdled-milk cheese is mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey, and there’s evidence of its existence in the Middle East as early as 5,000 B.C. So why the hullabaloo now?
Some put it down to Americans’ insatiable taste for soft and creamy comfort foods. But cottage cheese has survived the eons for a good reason: It’s packed with protein. One cup can contain as much as 25 grams, the equivalent of a double cheeseburger. But as with that burger, there can be other things to be aware of, like the amount of salt and added sugar.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3DuzMiv
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.
The Osceola Council on Aging is warning the community to beware of fraudulent websites while searching for home weatherization programs. These websites ask people to fill out online forms, which are then used to steal the applicant’s personal information. Unfortunately, when a victim of this malicious fraud attempts to contact the company, they receive no response or support.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44DSoZo
We are all susceptible to falls. But, older adults have an increased risk of falling, and the harm sustained can be more complicated than just your average cut, scrape or bruise. Serious injuries may occur in the form of fractured or broken bones and internal bleeding.
Each year, more than three million people 65 and older are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries. Unfortunately, fewer than half of them follow up with their primary physician about the accident, increasing the likelihood of another fall. Proper follow-up care can be instrumental in helping to identify and minimize risks for future falls.
Falls can occur for a variety of reasons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists these common causes:
• Impaired vision—as you get older, your vision may not be as clear, making it more difficult to see tripping hazards.
• Health conditions–diabetes, heart disease and other health issues can affect your balance.
• Medications— sedatives and antidepressants can make you dizzy or sleepy. Other over-the-counter medicines may also lead to conditions that alter your balance.
• Weakness—can contribute to imbalance and falls.
• Vitamin D deficiency—a lack of bone strength can lead to weakness and falls.
• Foot pain or poor footwear—increase likelihood of tripping/falling.
• Hazards in the home—throw rugs that present tripping hazards or broken or uneven steps can increase the risk of falls.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Y8AOde
Heavy metal band Metallica’s foundation, All Within My Hands, continues its multimilliondollar investment in critical workforce programs at community colleges nationwide, including Valencia College, that has been invited to return for a fourth year and will continue to receive Metallica Scholars funding to enhance career and technical education programs.
Altogether, Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation has provided $185,000 in scholarships to students in Valencia’s short-term training programs – providing adults the chance to become welders, truck drivers, heavy equipment operators and industrial automation technicians.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/45iCXp0
As the scorching sun continues to beat down Osceola County and the entire Sunshine State, a reliable air conditioner is not just a luxury but a necessity for comfort and good health. With temperatures soaring and humidity levels skyrocketing, homeowners in Florida heavily rely on their air conditioning systems to provide respite from the sweltering heat. However, the harsh climate and demanding workload can take a toll on these cooling units, making regular preventative maintenance crucial for their longevity and optimal performance.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Oasgyd
It may not feel like Fall is in the air, with temperatures in the mid 90s and thunderstorms soaking Osceola County nearly every afternoon, but at Disney World, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are welcoming the first touches of fall on Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.
Fall decor can be enjoyed by guests through Nov. 1 and is just one of many festive touches that visitors can look forward to experiencing this autumn at the “Most Magical Place on Earth.”
Disney is also currently celebrating with its 2023 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, going on now through Nov. 18th at Walt Disney World!
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OkjE8h
A flurry of tropical holiday magic is coming to Island H2O Water Park with the park’s all-new “Holiday Nights” immersive island-themed holiday spectacle every Wednesday through Sunday from Nov. 8 – Dec. 10 and everyday Dec. 13 – 31.
During 44 nights, hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, themed displays, unique photo spots, live entertainment, and tantalizingly themed treats and gifts will transform Island H2O Water Park into an extravaganza for the whole family.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3qsvO6W
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SeaWorld Orlando‘s Craft Beer Festival isn’t just about the brews. They’ve got Positively Delicious fresh food choices to tempt you too every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through Sept. 4—included with park admission.
From the new Pipeline Pretzel and Short Rib Poutine to returning staples like Beignets and Walking Tacos, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your next craving.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Kr3aKp
Minion Land on Illumination Avenue is officially open at Universal Orlando Resort. Guests of all ages can now step into the beloved world of the Minions franchise like never before, experiencing a whole new level of Minion mischief in this vibrant new land.
“We are thrilled to officially welcome our guests to the all-new Minion Land,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “This immersive and captivating new addition to our destination was brought to life in a partnership with our colleagues at Illumination and puts our guests into the heart, and villainous minds, of this diabolically fun franchise. This rich new environment has so much for all our guests to enjoy.”
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3qsgqHO
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The Osceola Magic’s mascot Swish, joined “The New Start Thrift Store” and ‘Clancy & Theys Construction Company” in reminding the community that the Education Foundation of Osceola County is still accepting donations for school supplies for the school year.
The New Start Thrift Store donated $2,000 and Clancy & Theys Construction Company donated $1,000 to the foundation’s school supply drive during Tuesday’s school board meeting.
The St. Cloud Police Department open its doors to the media on Friday to showcase its new VirTra interactive training simulator. The simulator, which cost approximately $315,000, is used to train officers in a variety of scenarios, including de-escalation, judgmental use of force, and active shooter response.
“We are excited to add this state-of-the-art simulator to our training arsenal,” said Police Chief Douglas Goerke. “This simulator will allow us to provide our officers with realistic and challenging training that will help them make the best decisions in critical situations.”
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OpvDRS
Fresh chicken with crisp Florida arugula on toasted bread, it’s Positively Delicious!
• 2 Florida chicken breasts, grilled
• 1 Florida tomato, sliced thin
• 2 cups Florida arugula
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• Sandwich bread (your favorite)
• Sea salt and fresh ground pepper
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/43XgVI3
After a long day at the beach soaking up the sun, reward yourself with a delicious meal. Try these Grilled Shrimp skewers made with fresh Florida seafood…they’re Positively Delicious!
• 1 pound Florida shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 Florida Key limes, juiced
• ½ Florida avocado, mashed
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons spicy mustard
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Oil for cooking
• Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3XNATmC
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Looking for a fun dish to bring to summer cook-outs? Try this chicken pasta with fresh Florida vegetables…it’s Positively Delicious!
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups Florida Chicken, cooked and chopped
• 2 Florida tomatoes and Florida zucchini, diced
• 2 cups Florida spinach
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 12 ounces whole wheat penne, cooked
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Olive oil, for cooking
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3X6XRon
Honey-glazed fried chicken wings with the perfect mix of crunch and tang…it’s Positively Delicious!
INGREDIENTS
• 12 Florida chicken wings
• ⅓ cup Florida honey
• ¼ cup Florida orange juice
• 10 sprigs fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose seasoning
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3CDS3sU
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