
























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.
Osceola High School and science teacher Stacy Nichols have received a $10,000 STEM grant from the Toshiba America Foundation to help create a new “CSI-style” Forensic Science classroom on the Kissimmee campus.
The classroom will enhance students’ problem-solving skills using real-life scenarios and simulated crime scenes through hands-on learning and will give students the required critical thinking skills that can prepare them for science-related careers and advanced education. With a partnership already in the works with Kissimmee Police Department, the Osceola School District is ready to move forward with this new science program at OHS.
“Osceola High School will now have a model Forensic Classroom due to receiving this grant. From toxicology reports, fingerprinting processes, detective-like lesson plans, and a high level of inquiry, this opportunity is a dream come true for our school,” said Johana Santiago, Principal of Osceola High. “Ms. Nichols is an extraordinary individual with the heart of a true teacher. She is compassionate, graceful, dedicated, and loving. Ms. Nichols represents true Kowboy values, and we are blessed to have her on our staff.”
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Florida’s average price for a gallon of regular unleaded has creeped back to its highest price since August 2022, $3.84 per gallon. Osceola County drivers are paying the same price as the national average at $3.87.
“Last week, gasoline futures prices rebounded to the same levels that led to the 2023-highs we saw earlier this month. Since it can sometimes take a week or two before changes in the futures market hits the retail side, drivers could see gas prices move higher,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group.
According to AAA, gasoline futures rose as a number of refiners continue to grapple with hot weather, reducing petroleum output at a time when the country is seeing a late summer demand surge. Extreme heat can cause complications for refiners in the form of equipment failures, in addition to regional electrical outages and severe weather.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/45x6ifA
Students in Osceola County have stepped back into their classrooms with renewed enthusiasm, and Huntington Learning Center in St. Cloud and Kissimmee is once again standing ready to be their guiding light towards academic achievement. With a proven record of nurturing students’ growth, the center’s commitment to excellence remains unwavering as it embarks on a new school year journey.
The hallmark of Huntington Learning Center’s approach is its unwavering dedication to personalized learning. Recognizing that no two students are alike, the center continues to assess individual strengths and areas requiring development. Through comprehensive assessments, students receive tailored learning plans that address their specific needs and objectives, setting the stage for a successful academic year.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3qvxf4F
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This Saturday August 19 from 10 am to 2 pm, local Walmart pharmacies will offer opportunities for families to prioritize their health with free screenings and affordable immunizations. Customers can receive free glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure screenings as well as affordable immunizations like flu, HPV, tetanus, hepatitis and more at Walmart pharmacies nationwide.
Walmart is collaborating with the American Cancer Society (ACS) to educate communities about preventing human papillomavirus-related cancers.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OBIgJI
Happy Wednesday Osceola! Showers and thunderstorms should be more widespread than yesterday with rain chances at 80 percent. Partly sunny and hot, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 106. South southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts could be between a half and three quarters of an inch. 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
Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 11pm. Low around 74. South southeast wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3KKnPJn
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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
The Osceola Magic, NBA G League affiliate of the Orlando Magic and newly based in Kissimmee, have announced the open tryout dates for the 202324 season which will be held on Sat., Sept. 2 and Sat., Sept. 9 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the AdventHealth Fieldhouse (210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven, FL 33880). Local player tryouts provide athletes the chance to showcase their skills in front of Osceola Magic coaches and staff.
Pre-registration for tryouts is open now at Osceolamagic.com. All required registration and release forms, along with a $300 non-refundable fee, must be completed in order to be considered. Payments may be made through credit card or cashier’s check. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis and tryout spaces are limited. Local Player Tryout & Authorization Forms will be sent via DocuSign within 48 hours of purchase.
To register CLICK HERE. For additional questions regarding the tryout, please contact the Osceola Magic by calling 219.808.5992 or emailing info@osceolamagic.com.
For information about tickets, merchandising and much more, visit OsceolaMagic. com.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3YlCEYy
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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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We provide trusted, quality care in your community. At Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, get access to care from an expert and compassionate clinical team for all of your healthcare needs — from emergency services to heart care, surgical services and more — all close to home. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/StCloud choose well.