Positively Osceola News Today, Osceola County's Leading and Trusted Source for News!

Osceola County Fair to Feature Country Recording Artist Chase Matthew, Sunday, February 19th at 6pm

Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida St. Cloud Branch to host Faces of the Future Fundraising Breakfast January 27

CarFit and St. Cloud: Helping to Keeping Our Older Drivers Safe on the Road

Celebrate Creative Art, Food and Performances at EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Jan.13 – Feb. 20

UPCOMING LIVESTREAMS

LIVE with Jeremy LanierFlorida Department of Health

January 24th - 10:00am

LIVE with Rev. Mary Lee DowneyHope Partnership

January 24th - 6:00pm

LIVE with Tammy DouglassHelp Now of Osceola Inc

January 26th - 10:00am

LIVE with Mike SteigerwaldCity of Kissimmee

January 31st - 10:00am

LIVE with Chief Douglas GoerkeSt. Cloud Police Department

January 31st - 6:00pm

ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS

LIVE with Dr. Chris Burns, from SDOC Fine and Performing Arts January 19th, 2023

LIVE with James Kenney, from the Central Florida Human Trafficking Task Force

January 12th, 2023

LIVE with William Morea & Wey Wey Wong, from Huntington Learning Center

January 19th, 2023

LIVE with Silver Spurs Rodeo Big Boss Clifton Chapman, and Miss Silver Spurs Raelynne Kempfer January 5th, 2023

LIVE with KVLS/Osceola County Fair Assistant General Manager Pam Plylar and Miss Silver Spurs Raelynne Kempfer January 4th, 2023

VIDEOS ON DEMAND

Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade

The Silver Spurs Rodeo is celebrating its 150th rodeo event this February, starting with the Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade in St. Cloud! The parade is free and open to the public and will kick off at 10:00am on February 11th, traveling through Downtown St. Cloud around Pennsylvania and 9th Street in Centennial Park.

Pinktoberfest

The City of St. Cloud, Florida and Pink Heals St. Cloud FL Charter have teamed up once again to host Pinktoberfest on Saturday, January 21st from 10:00am - 2:00pm at St. Cloud’s Lakefront Park. The event helps raise awareness and funds for the St. Cloud Charter of Pink Heals, a non-profit healthcare support group that provides financial and emotional support for individuals and families battling cancer within the St. Cloud Community.

Clue

at Osceola Arts

Next up at the Osceola Arts main stage is “CLUE” under the direction of Joy Belding-Gagne! This must-see show will take place Friday, January 20th through Sunday, February 5th.

Celebration Foundation’s Concert Series

The Celebration Foundation continues its exciting concert series on Friday January 27th at 7:00pm at Celebration’s Community Presbyterian Church featuring singer extraordinaire Zoë Tyler. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience presented by the Celebration Foundation and sponsored by Experience Kissimmee, Florida. For tickets and more information go to CelebrationFoundation.org.

12th Annual Monster Bulls

Come on out for a night of bull riding fun at the Silver Spurs Rodeo’s 12th Monster Bulls on Saturday, February 11th at 6:30pm! The biggest and baddest Silver Spurs bulls will enter the arena and give those cowboys the ride of their life.

Creative, Talented and Inspiring

High School Students

Chosen for This Year’s Disney Dreamers Academy at Disney World

A budding artist, an aspiring neurosurgeon and a creative storyteller are among the 100 talented high school students selected for this year’s Disney Dreamers Academy, an educational mentoring program hosted at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

The 100 students from across the country will descend on Walt Disney World Resort March 23-26 for the 16th annual event, aimed at broadening career awareness and creating exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America.

To kick off the announcement of the 2023 class, Mickey Mouse, Disney executives, and international recording star Kelly Rowland surprised one of the students with the news of her selection live on national TV from her school in Newark, N. J. Afterwards, the names of the entire Class of 2023 were displayed on a Times Square billboard.

Rowland, the four-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, actress and television executive producer, served last year as the program’s ambassador and as an advocate for the students. She shared personal insights, drawing from her own unique experience as a pre-teen performer, then as a teenager in one of the best-selling female groups of all time, Destiny’s Child. The Disney Dreamers program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to support diverse communities. By encouraging the next generation to think big, Disney hopes the students will carry what they learn back home and continue pursuing their dreams.

“We’re ready to welcome another outstanding group of teens from across the country for our 16th year!” said Tracey Powell, Disney Signature Experiences vice president and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “They are going to have the experience of a lifetime, setting them on a journey to go out and achieve their dreams, just like the classes who came before them.”

Florida Launches 2023 Black History Month Student and Educator Contests

The Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida has officially launched the 2023 Black History Month student art and essay contests with the theme of “Celebrating the Achievements of African American Floridians.” These contests will run through Tuesday, February 7, 2023. Black History Month is celebrated each year in the month of February.

“African Americans have a long and proud history in our great state of Florida, and Black History Month is the perfect occasion to celebrate their many achievements,” said Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Learning about African American achievements is central to learning about Florida and America itself. I have no doubt that this year’s art and essay contest submissions will be outstanding.”

“Florida goes the extra mile to recognize the immense and historical contributions of African Americans in our great state,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo. “We are proud to offer this opportunity each year to recognize outstanding students and educators in Florida for their unique efforts and talents.”

First Lady DeSantis invites students to participate in academic and creative contests throughout the month. Students in grades K-3 can participate in an art contest, and students in grades 4-12 can participate in an essay contest. Additionally, students, parents, teachers, and principals are invited to nominate full-time educators of all student grades for the Black History Month Excellence in Education Award.

About the Student Art Contest

Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Black History Month Art Contest is open to all kindergarten through third-grade students in Florida. Each student will submit original, two-dimensional artwork based on this year’s theme. Four statewide winners will be selected, and each winner will receive a $100 art supplies gift card and a 1-year pass to Florida state parks.

Florida Department of Health in Osceola County to Distribute Narcan Nasal Spray kits

The Florida Department of Health in Osceola County (FDOH-Osceola) is announcing the availability of free Naloxone (Narcan) Nasal Spray kits. This lifesaving medication could reduce thousands of substance abuse deaths across the state.

Naloxone is available to people who use drugs, people with a history of drug use, others at risk of experiencing an overdose, friends, family members, and others who may witness an overdose. Kits consist of two Naloxone nasal sprays that are administered even without a health care professional present.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3Hbgwbh

Osceola County Sheriff’s Office has announced that they have arrested a man in connection with a fatal shooting Monday night. Osceola Sheriff Marcos Lopez said that 42-year-old Gany Djurabayev was arrested following the shooting that took place in the 1200 block of Arisha Drive near Kissimmee around 8:30 p.m. According to Sheriff Lopez, Djurabayev was in a fight with 31-year-old Bekzod Nishonbove over $5,000, which was supposed to be a down payment on a piece of property. Lopez said Nishonbove struck Djurabayev, who then went to his car and got a gun which he used to shoot Nishonbove. Djurabayev multiple times. Djurabayev then drove Nishonbove to the hospital, according to the sheriff.

When asked about the suspect driving the shooting victim to the hospital Sheriff Lopez replied, “You know, that is unusual, it’s a first for me.”

Man

CarFit and St. Cloud: Helping to Keeping Our Older Drivers Safe on the Road

Getting older doesn’t always mean it’s time to hang up the keys, but it is a good idea to evaluate how you, or your loved ones, who may be getting older, are driving. The Florida Department of Transportation’s Safe Mobility for Life Coalition, in partnership with the City of St. Cloud and the St. Cloud Police Department, will offer free CarFit check-ups at the St. Cloud Community Center on January 25, 2023, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Attending a CarFit event is a fun and easy way for older adults to be proactive about staying safe on the road. CarFit is an educational program developed by AAA, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) designed to provide a quick yet comprehensive check of how well older drivers and their vehicles work together.

“Natural age-related changes can make us feel less confident and insecure behind the wheel,” said Megan Case, Statewide CarFit Instructor. “CarFit provides older drivers with the information and tools they need to better understand and optimize their vehicle’s safety features.”

During a FREE 20-minute check-up, trained volunteers and professionals review a 12-point checklist of key safety features with each driver seated in their own vehicle to help them learn about:

• Proper safety belt use and fit

• The safe distance between them and their vehicle’s airbag

• Clear line of sight above the steering wheel

• Mirror positioning to help reduce blind spots

• Accessing vehicle controls

• State and local resources

For an appointment or more information, visit car-fit-stcloud.eventbrite.com or call 407-891-6735. Appointments are encouraged to save you time but are not required. We will confirm your 20-Minute, 1-on-1 Check-up a few days before the CarFit event.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3GNrfbC

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Orlando Health Cancer Institute Introduces

CAR T-Cell Therapy for Treating Advanced Blood Cancers

Orlando Health Cancer Institute has added CAR T-cell therapy as a new option for treating advanced blood cancers.

CAR T-cell therapy is an immunotherapy that works by harnessing the power of a patient’s immune system to attack tumors. Treatment begins with the collection of the patient’s T-cells, which help protect the body from infection. The T-cells are then sent to a laboratory, where they are genetically re-engineered to produce proteins on their surface called chimeric antigen receptors. The new T-cells are reproduced by the millions in preparation for infusion back into the patient.

Florida Department of Education Releases 2021-2022 Graduation Rates for Osceola Schools

Data released today by the Florida Department of Education shows Osceola School District’s graduation rate decreased from 89.7% in 2021 to 85.2% in 2022. Florida’s statewide high school graduation rate similarly decreased by from 90.1% to 87.3%. Several highlights for the Osceola School District include:

• Ten high schools in Osceola County achieved graduation rates above the state average

• Osceola County’s graduation rate for English Language Learners is above the state average

• Osceola County’s graduation rate for at-risk students is above the state average

• Four high schools in Osceola County were above the state graduation rate for Exceptional Student Education students

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Xnd18w

Dunkin’ gave guests a sweet way to shine gold and support kids battling illness during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month last September. Dunkin’ has now allocated $27,000 to be granted locally to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children through the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation. Thanks to the support of Dunkin’ guests and the generosity of franchisees throughout the Southeast Region, the Dunkin’ Shine Gold program collectively raised $320,000 to support children’s hospitals throughout Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3w6kEnx

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PositivelyOsceola.com

Dunkin’ Shines Gold with $27,000 Grant to Bring Joy to Kids Battling Cancer at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Kissimmee Utility Authority has released its 2023 Calendar of Electrical Safety, a bilingual calendar in English and Spanish, featuring the winning entries from its 29th annual student art contest.

The calendar, available free of charge at the utility’s customer service center at 1701 W. Carroll Street in Kissimmee, features an assortment of electrical safety tips and incorporates the Osceola County School District calendar for convenient planning.

Open to Osceola County students in Kindergarten through fifth grade, the contest is designed to promote electrical safety among students and their families. This year, a total of 1,081 entries were received from 21 Osceola County elementary schools, including, public, private, and charter school students.

https://bit.ly/3vOjFbH

If you’re looking to “tie the knot” on Valentine’s Day this February 14th, The Osceola County Clerk & Comptroller Office may have exactly what you’re looking for. On Tuesday, February 14, Kelvin Soto and his County Clerk & Comptroller Office will welcome couples to be married at the Historic Osceola County Courthouse for their Valentine’s Day Group Ceremony & Reception!

Fifteen couples per group ceremony are invited to participate in a romantic celebration of love and marriage during the Valentine’s themed Wedding Ceremony and Reception to be held on Valentine’s Day. The event will be held in the courtroom at the renowned Osceola County Historic Courthouse, the oldest courthouse in active use in Florida located at 3 Courthouse Square in Kissimmee.

Osceola County Fair to Feature Country Recording Artist Chase

Matthew, Sunday, February 19th at 6pm

The Osceola County Fair, the county’s largest annual event, is back February 10-19, and will feature more exciting LIVE entertainment than ever before.

On Sunday February 19 at 6pm, the Osceola County Fair will feature country recording artist Chase Matthew.

Since releasing his debut album, Born For This, earlier this year, Matthew has been busy selling out venues across the nation on his headline ‘Born For This’ Tour. Matthew recently performed to a hometown headline debut in Nashville to a SOLD-OUT crowd of more than 1,600 fans.

His single, “She Loves Jesus,” is out now, and fans can expect more new music from this Nashville riser in the coming months.

For tickets and more information go OsceolaCountyFair.com.

Multi-year FWC investigation “Operation

Viper” leads to numerous charges for venomous and prohibited snake traffickers

On January 12, 2023, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement filed charges against eight individuals, ranging from second degree misdemeanors to thirddegree felonies related to the illegal trafficking of venomous and prohibited snakes.

The FWC has been receiving intelligence reports and complaints indicating that a black market exists for the sale and purchase of illegal and highly dangerous venomous reptiles in Florida. In 2020, the FWC initiated a long-term investigation with undercover investigators to determine the extent of this illegal activity and hold violators accountable.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3GNrfbC

Osceola County Fair to Return to Osceola Heritage Park February 10-19, 2023

The Osceola County Fair is back February 10th through the 19th, 2023 at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, and it’s sure to bigger, better, and more fun than EVER before.

Celebrating its 79th year, Osceola County’s largest event will feature amusement rides, games, exciting exhibits, livestock shows, positively delicious fair food, a demolition derby, a LIVE concert by Warner Music Nashville Country Music artist Chase Matthew on Sunday February 19th, and so much more! Tell your friends, tell your family, it’s the 79th Osceola County Fair at Osceola Heritage Park!

St. Cloud Pink Heals to Host Pinktoberfest at St. Cloud Lakefront January 21

The City of St. Cloud and Pink Heals St. Cloud Charter have teamed up once again to host Pinktoberfest on Saturday, January 21st, from 10am – 4pm at St. Cloud’s beautiful Lakefront Park.

The event helps raise awareness and funds for the St. Cloud Charter of Pink Heals, a non-profit healthcare support group that provides financial and emotional support for individuals and families battling cancer within the St. Cloud Community.

The free family event will feature raffles, vendors, a bounce house, and fun for the entire family. AND, of course, the highlight of the event, the Pink Fire Truck pull contest is back, where teams of 10 compete to pull partially-loaded pink fire truck at the St. Cloud Lakefront in the fastest time possible.

Each truck pulling team will consist of a maximum of 10 people and can raise money by hosting fundraisers, individual pledges, and corporate sponsorships. The cost of entering a truck pull team is only $200.00. To find out more about how you can participate, or to be a vendor for the event, contact Shawnta Price at 407-957-7226.

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Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida St. Cloud Branch to host Faces of the Future Fundraising Breakfast January 27

When you picture the future of our Central Florida Community, whose faces do you see? In the faces of the youth the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida serve, there is hope, dreams, promise, and potential.

Join the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida St. Cloud Branch on January 27th at the St. Cloud Marina Banquet Hall for their Faces of the Future Fundraising Breakfast breakfast and learn how this impacting organization is shaping the community’s future by bridging the opportunity gap for children.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3WhFVWa

INJURY LAW

Draper Law:

minor

Car accidents can happen in an instant. Even though these crashes happen quickly, recovery is not always quick and easy. A car accident can cause a variety of injuries, including back injuries. Even a minor crash can cause back injuries because the back tends to absorb most of the impact in an accident.

If you have suffered a back injury, seek prompt medical treatment. These injuries can be hard to treat, and sometimes can lead to secondary medical issues, such as hypotension, osteoporosis, pressure ulcers, sleep apnea, bowel problems, urinary tract infections, sexual dysfunction, and more. Draper Law Office understands how serious a back injury can be. These injuries can be long-lasting and costly to treat. Schedule a consultation by filling out the online form or by calling their office at (407) 846.0075.

Even

car accidents can cause back injuries, don’t wait to seek medical attention

Osceola Arts Kicks Off 2023 with Hilarious

Whodunnit Clue: On Stage, January 20

Osceola Arts is back on its main stage beginning Friday, January 20th and running through Sunday, February 5th with the whodunnit farce, Clue: On Stage, written by Sandy Rustin.

Adapted from the 1985 screenplay written by Jonathan Lynn, Clue: On Stage features some familiar colorful characters who have all been invited to a mysterious dinner party. When their host turns up dead, Miss Scarlett, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard must put their heads together to find the killer. If they don’t, they could be next.

Directed by Joy Belding, this production features a talented cast made up of Osceola Arts veterans and newcomers. Tickets are only $28, with Senior, student and group rates available. Showtimes for Clue: On Stage are 7:30pm on Fridays and Saturdays, 2pm on Sundays, and an additional 2pm matinee performance on Saturday, February 4th.

OSCEOLA BUSINESS

R E F E R R A L S E R V I C E

Making Business better, together

FAMILY LAW

Draper Law: Ten Mistakes to Avoid During Your Divorce

When you are going through a divorce, it can feel like every aspect of your life from where you live to how you are going to support yourself is at risk. At a time like this it is a natural response to be afraid but, if you are not careful, that fear can lead you to make errors which could hurt your case. The good news is that you can avoid mistakes during your divorce.

Knowing what actions to avoid during divorce is critical. Draper Law Office has experience helping clients circumvent mistakes and make the right choices during divorce. Call 407.846.0075 today or go to DraperLawOffice.com to set up your free, no-obligation consultation in one of their three locations: St. Cloud, Kissimmee, and Orlando.

to Osceola

Buckle up country music fans, Country Thunder Florida has announced that its October 2023 all-star lineup at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee will feature country music superstars Cody Johnson, HARDY, Keith Urban & so many more.

“When you have the world’s greatest country music fans show up the way they did in Florida in 2022, you owe them a follow-up of epic proportions,” says Country Thunder Music Festivals CEO, Troy Vollhoffer. “And we’re making that promise with one of the best lineups from start to finish we’ve had in years. We can’t wait to bring Cody Johnson, HARDY, and Keith Urban to the fans in Florida!”

By J. Daniel Pearson For Positively Osceola

Gateway Panthers Beat Harmony Longhorns, Advance to Title Game in OBC Soccer Tournament

Heading into this week’s Orange Belt Conference soccer tournament, Gateway coach Sagar Patel knew his team would most likely have to beat not one but two rivals if they were to win a championship.

After Monday’s convincing 8-0 win over Poinciana in the opening round, the second-seeded Panthers got by their first real test of the tournament by beating one of those nemesis — Harmony — by a 2-0 count on Wednesday night. The win sends Gateway (10-1-1) into Friday night’s championship game against top-seeded Celebration (9-2-1) and also ended an almost decade-long period of frustration against the Longhorns.

Although Gateway did beat Harmony, 2-0, earlier this season, the Panthers were a dismal 1-8-1 in their previous 10 matches against the Longhorns. “We knew tonight was going to be a struggle, Harmony is a really talented team that has had our number in recent years,” Patel said. “Tonight we got a great effort defensively and did enough offensively to win.”

Gateway would dominate possession, but thanks to a great defensive play by Harmony’s Aldo Ogando the game was scoreless after the first half. The Panthers best opportunity came in the 39th minute of the half when a corner kick bounced loose in front of the Harmony goal. But with the Harmony goalie out of position, the Panthers’ Nicolas Quintero’s unleashed a point blank shot that was blocked by the leg of a diving Ogando, who deflected the ball back to midfield.

The game would change dramatically early in the second half when Harmony’s Yekiel Hernandez-Plaza was sent off with a red card for a throwing an elbow. With the man advantage for the rest of the game, Gateway had several great opportunities to score but Longhorns goalie Miguel Zapata made several outstanding saves.

SPORTS

Osceola Kowboys Hope to Defend OBC Hoops Crown

When the Orange Belt Conference (OBC) boys basketball tournament begins on Monday, the Harmony Longhorns (13-3) will be the top seed, but defending champion Osceola served notice on Tuesday night that they will not be giving up the title easily with a convincing 5237 win over Gateway.

The win by the young Kowboys, Osceola’s sixth in their last 10 games, pushed them to 8-11 on the year and avenged a 64-63 loss to the Panthers two weeks earlier. “We still have not played a complete game,” Kowboys coach Steve Mason said of his team that is starting three sophomores. “But I like our chemistry and I like the fact that we are getting better every game and getting better every week.”

Osceola, which has played an extremely difficult schedule this year, will be the number two seed and will host #7 St. Cloud on Monday night in the first round. Osceola will get an advanced look at the Bulldogs (7-9) when they face St. Cloud in a regular season game today (1/18).

Tuesday’s game started off slowly for the Kowboys as nine quick points by Gateway’s Victor Prada and five from Dashawn Williamson allowed the Panthers to build early leads of 7-2 and 16-11. But Osceola rallied back and long three-point bomb by Jordan Mundle at the buzzer tied the game at 16-16 after one.

Both teams struggled to score in the second period, but Osceola got a three-pointer late in the period from Steven Bennett to take a 26-23 lead at intermission. The third quarter belonged to Osceola and sophomore standout Alex Springs. Hitting a variety of driving shots, Springs scored 13 of his game-high 22 points in the period as the Kowboys began to pull away 43-34.

“He (Springs) is going to be special,” Mason said. “He has a unique ability to drive the lane and get his shot off at different angles while going full speed. Alex is getting better and better every game.”

Creative Inspiration Journey School sees continued student growth amid school facility expansion

From the first day that Creative Inspiration Journey School opened its doors in the Fall of 2019, it was easy to see that it wasn’t going to be just another tuition free public charter school, it was focused on creating an environment of learning for its students unlike any other school in the St. Cloud and Osceola communities.

CIJS uses the Reggio Emilia approach to learning, which allows children to direct their own learning process according to their needs, and in a less-structured environment. This gives the students a apportunity to grow at their own pace, both as individuals – and community members.

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

HEALTH

Orlando Health hospitals awarded top grades for patient safety

Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital have received “A” grades for patient safety by The Leapfrog Group, an independent nonprofit organization committed to driving quality, safety and transparency in the U.S. health system. For Orlando Health South Lake, this is its 9th consecutive “A” grade from Leapfrog.

“Our clinical teams work extremely hard to achieve and maintain outstanding quality of care across the entire Orlando Health system,” said George Ralls, MD, chief medical officer, Orlando Health. “We have implemented quality and safety clinical practices across our system that protect our patients from harm and ensure the best possible outcomes. Our focus on quality and commitment to excellence has resulted in awards and recognition by other national, well-respected organizations.”

The American Heart Association recently recognized six Orlando Health hospitals for consistently following the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of stroke. In addition, U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in hospital rankings and consumer advice, ranked five Orlando Health clinical programs amongst the top 50 in the US, including a number one ranking for Neonatology in the state of Florida in 2022. Additionally, six Orlando Health hospitals were recognized as 2022-2023 High Performing hospitals in a total of twelve categories. And Orlando Health recently received 24 Beacon Awards for Excellence in nursing care from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses – more than any other healthcare system in Florida – recognizing high-quality patient care and a healthy work environment.

“Earning top recognitions for quality and safety is a continual journey,” adds Dr. Ralls. “Every achievement is a reflection of our mission to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve”

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

2023, A New Year, A New Hope – Kristen Arrington, State Representative for District 46

Positively Osceola asked a number of positive leaders in the community to share their hope and plans for the new year, and how we can encourage and support each other in 2023. We asked State Representative for District 46, Kristen Arrington, to share her hope and outlook for 2023.

2022 was a challenging year for many, including our community being hit by a hurricane. As always, everyone worked together to provide support, resources, and solutions as we experienced historic flooding. I was moved by the senior citizens in Good Samaritan who lost everything except each other and were living in a shelter temporarily with many of their neighbors. Their positivity and resilience should be a reminder to us all, that even in our most challenging times our outlook not only influences ourselves—but also those around us. I know many of us are ready to put 2022 behind us and look forward to a New Year.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3w2FYu1

2023, A New Year, A New Hope – Clifton Chapman, 2022-23 Silver Spurs Riding Club Big Boss

“The Silver Spurs Riding Club kicked off the 2022 year with our February rodeo recording some of its biggest crowds to date. It was evident that the sport of rodeo is alive and well in Osceola County. We also had the privilege of hosting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis during the Friday night performance.

Moving forward through the year, we continued the positive momentum from February and carried it into June where we witnessed cowboys and cowgirls from around the country show off their toughness and skill in all seven rodeo events. While it wouldn’t be a rodeo without our contestants, rodeo fans amaze me with their appreciation for this country and our freedoms, giving credit to the many veterans who have fought and sacrificed so much.

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

2023, A New Year, A New Hope – Kelvin Soto, Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller

Positively Osceola asked a number of positive leaders in the community to share their hope and plans for the new year, and how we can encourage and support each other in 2023. We asked Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, Kelvin Soto, to share his hope and outlook for 2023.

“As we say goodbye to 2022, I am excited about the new ways in which our office is endeavoring to best serve our community.

Over the past year, we have revolutionized the way we serve our constituents in all facets of our operations. We had a lot of work to do, but it’s safe to say that we’re excited about what we accomplished and what’s in store for 2023.

When I first took office, my goal was to better professionalize our staff and to adopt best-in-class performance measures, training, and recruitment. To that end, we implemented organizational practices seen only at the state and federal levels, ensuring quality candidates are onboarded and trained on best practices and operational standards to ensure a high level of customer care.

As part of this commitment to excellence, we acquired top notch leadership, adding a chief strategy officer with nearly 30 years of Walt Disney Company experience and a training and development manager dedicated to cutting edge models and methods. Alongside them, we brought on other dedicated leaders who have decades of experience with the state’s clerks and the court system. Simply put, we sought after the best to transform your Clerk & Comptroller’s Office into one that works for you with your needs at the forefront.”

This past year, we were excited to add photos to the passport application services we already provided. As the only U.S. Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility in Osceola County, we are proud to be your one-stop shop for your international travel needs. No longer do you need to obtain photos from the corner drugstore or schedule your own photographer ahead of your appointment.”

For more Positively Osceola, visit our Social Media & Website! PositivelyOsceola.com

2023, a New Year, a New Hope, with 2022, with Kathy Pierson, President of Kathy Pierson Communications

“Wahoo, it’s a New Year and I am looking forward to getting started eating well, being healthy, volunteering, and just living life to the fullest!

As a public relations professional for over 35 years, I really strive to help my clients with who they are and how to tell the community what they do, how they do it, and the impact they make on the community overall. I connect my clients with the community they reside in because it’s important to be involved, but also to give back.

My clients are the “best” and I am so proud to represent them in a positive direction, and that they trust and believe in me to help them to move forward. I love what I do, and I am looking forward to 2023!”

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

2023,

a New Year, a New Hope, with Osceola Kowboys Head Football Coach Eric Pinellas

Positively Osceola asked Eric Pinellas, Osceola Kowboys Head Football Coach Eric Pinellas to share his hope and outlook for 2023.

“Happy New Year to all, the 2022 season for us at Osceola was filled with some great wins as well as some challenging moments.  Week 11, we played a pretty good West Orange ball club, that week we were hit with the flu bug and over 20 of our kids missed practice time during the week. We knew that we needed the win however to solidify our seeding for the playoffs. Our kids were able to dig deep and pull out a last second win to solidify our playoff spot. Our biggest win of the year had to be round 1 of the playoffs. It was a rematch of our week 1 opponent Treasure Coast.

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

2023, a New Year, a New Hope, with local realtor and community leader, Marcy

Theobald

Positively Osceola asked Marcy Theobald, local realtor and community leader to share her hope and outlook for 2023.

“As your local professional realtor, I would say my best experiences in 2022 were fulfilling customers dreams. They filled my heart joy and love. I was proud to be president of Rotary of Kissimmee, and the president of the Women’s Council of Realtors, which brought education, stability, strength in women, guidance, and direction. 2022 was a phenomenal year, but of course as we know, difficulties were in supply and demand. In 2023 i’m looking forward to simplifying life, grounding with family and friends, growing my sphere with communications, and working with new clients. I’m always available for people’s needs in real estate, and am there to assist in every way possible. So, if you don’t know already know me , just give me a call at 407-908-4042. Happy New Year!

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Marcy Smiley Theobald PA Realtor, Iron Valley Real Estate -Osceola

2023, a New Year, a New Hope, with Kissimmee Commissioner, Community Leader, Angela Eady

Positively Osceola asked Angela Eady, City of Kissimmee Commissioner and community leader, to share her hope and outlook for 2023.

“The hope for tomorrow must start today. Each one of us has a true responsibility to mold our county to the dynamics that suits the diversity that reflects us as a unified group of unique individuals. All to benefit one cause, to teach and learn from each other. We must open our hearts and minds to a new form of love and understanding that we all have place and a voice for each other. To motivate, enhance, and excel to the fullest without compromising the integrity on which our upbringing carried us. We must promote the absence of pride and welcome grace and dignity. After all, we are in this together, and together we will stand, and succeed. #TomorrowStartsToday”

Angela Eady

Commissioner, City of Kissimmee

2023, a New Year, a New Hope, with Osceola Council On Aging President/CEO Wendy Ford

Positively Osceola asked Wendy Ford, President/CEO of the Osceola Council On Aging, to share her hope and outlook for 2023.

“As we plunge into 2023, it’s obviously important to look towards the future. Similarly, it’s just as important to look to the past and remember all the blessings which have been bestowed. The past few years have been challenging. Sadly, many have had to endure illness, personal tragedy, natural disasters, and even death. But we have persevered to become not only stronger individuals, but also, a stronger community.

I’m proud to say, The Osceola Council on Aging (OCOA) has continued to be an ever-growing, ever-expanding, stronger, more resilient organization. Despite the last couple of years of pandemic upheaval, we have persevered through obstacles with great outcomes which have constituted overall growth in these times of inflation and economic crisis.

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IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS

Celebrate Creative Art, Food and Performances at EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Jan.13 – Feb. 20

Global visual, culinary and performing arts create a tapestry of wonder during EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T at Walt Disney World Resort, Jan. 13 – Feb. 20, 2023.

EPCOT becomes the stage for this 39-day festival, with extraordinary artwork, culinary creations inspired by art movements and Broadway stars singing beloved Disney songs. The celebration of the arts is sure to delight festivalgoers with magic that only Disney can create.

The festival is just one of the many exciting events occurring during the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary celebration, happening now through March 31, 2023.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3ZJ1CBt

SeaWorld Orlando to host Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend at SeaWorld Orlando January 21-22

The holiday season may be behind us, but some very special fun for the kiddos is coming with Sesame Street Kids’ Weekend at SeaWorld Orlando on January 21-22.

Everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends are hosting a party just for kids, Jan. 21 – 22. Join Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, Rosita, and all your favorite furry friends for a fun-filled weekend with hands-on activities, character photo opportunities, and much more.

This family-friendly celebration takes place in Sesame Street Land and is included with SeaWorld Orlando admission. For more information visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

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2023, a New Year, a New Hope, with Kissimmee Advocate, Community Leader, and Department of Health PIO Jeremy Lanier

Positively Osceola asked a number of positive leaders in the community to share their hope and their plans for the new year, and how we can encourage and support each other in 2023. We asked Jeremy Lanier, Kissimmee business owner, positive advocate for the City of Kissimmee, and Public Information Officer with the Florida Department of Health in Osceola, to share his hope and outlook for 2023.

“2023 is upon us. For many, there is pressure to review the previous year and reflect on what will be done differently in the future. It’s the same every New Year’s – we promise ourselves to eat better, to work out more, to excel at work. We place unnecessary pressure on ourselves to set goals and timelines, all in an effort to be the “perfect human”.

But I have a suggestion for this upcoming year. In 2023, I will do things differently and refrain from repeating the routine of past New Year’s. Instead of setting unrealistic goals for myself, I’ll strive to simply be a better human.

I’ll work harder to be kinder to others. I’ll remember that empathy is the true key to building a harmonious community. I’ll take more time with my loved ones, and cherish those moments that are so fleeting. I’ll remember that a simple smile can change the course of another person’s day. 2023 will be less about myself, and more about others. I’ll live in the present and not dwell in the anxiety of future thinking. I’ll be truly thankful for what I have. And I’ll work harder at just giving myself a break and loving who I am. I hope you join me in this effort.

So many wonderful things happened this past year in Osceola County. And even with the challenges we experienced – hurricanes, emerging health threats, political differences – we have so, so much to be grateful for. Our community has shown its resiliency time and time again. And that resiliency is worth more than any currency on the planet. So in 2023, I challenge each of you to be kinder to yourself, and kinder to others. Let’s worry less and hope more. In doing so, I know we will make this the best year yet!”

Jeremy Lanier Public Information Officer, Florida Department of Health in Osceola

Celebration Foundation Concert Series to Feature

Singer

Extraordinaire Zoë Tyler January 27

The Celebration Foundation Concert Series continues on Friday, January 27 at 7pm with singer Zoë Tyler, a Leading Lady, National TV award winner, and TV judge.

Zoë has performed in Les Misérables, Joseph, Jesus Christ Superstar, Eva Cassidy her story, City of Angels, Fame, Smokey Joe’s café, and has sung with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for many years. She has also performed with Sir Elton John, Barry Manilow, Donna Summer, Cliff Richard and was part of the UK’S version of THE VIEW for 4 years.

Her TV career began alongside Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber as his fellow judge and voice coach for the BBC’S hit shows How do you solve a problem like Maria and Any dream will do. She helped search the UK for leading ladies and leading men and coach them to win their dream roles and was nominated for a BAFTA award.

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be confident.