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

79th Osceola County Fair Opens Friday, February 10-19 at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee

Country Music Singer Chase Matthew to Perform #7 Hit, ‘The Way I Am’ at Osceola County Fair Sunday, February 19th

150th Silver Spurs Rodeo to Hit the Dirt February 17-19 at Osceola’s Silver Spurs Arena, Monster Bulls February 11

Silver Spurs Riding Club Names 2023 Coca Cola Cowboys, Women’s Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

Come Show Your Heart and Heart Health, This Saturday in the Kissimmee 5K, Still Time to Register!

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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 Ryan Munns, of Bogin, Munns and Munns

January 27th, 2023

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

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

LIVE with St. Cloud Police Chief Douglas Goerke discussing pedestrian crosswalk safety

LIVE for the start of the 2nd Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K at the St. Cloud Lakefront!

LIVE with Osceola County Fair General Manager Joel Rose!

LIVE with St. Cloud double medalist Laylah Lara talking about the FHSAA Regional Meet

LIVE at the official Grand Opening of Somosfresh Market in St. Cloud

VIDEOS ON DEMAND

Osceola County Fair - Demolition Derby

On Sunday February 12th, demolition derby drivers will thrill the crowd as they intentionally ram, smash, and absolutely destroy each others’ cars. The driver of the last car running will claim victory. Come watch as these cars get demolished before your very eyes at the Osceola County Fair!

St Cloud Monthly Market

It’s time again for another stroll through the Saint Cloud Downtown Monthly Market. On Wednesday, February 22nd, you can enjoy walking through St. Cloud’s beautiful downtown district, browsing through the iconic shops and pop-up vendors. Enjoy live music along with a great selection of positively delicious fare from downtown St. Cloud’s unforgettable restaurants.

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.

Old Town’s Saturday Classic Car Show and Cruise

For over 30 years, the Old Town Classic Car Show and Cruise has been a local tradition and one of the premier weekly car shows in Central Florida. Every Saturday, the Classic Car Show welcomes show-quality 1985 and older hot rods, street rods, and antiques. The Classic Car Show is free for participants and free for the public to attend! For more information, visit MyOldTownUSA.com.

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.

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!

150th Silver Spurs Rodeo to Hit the Dirt

February 17-19 at Osceola’s Silver Spurs Arena, Monster Bulls February 11

The Silver Spurs Riding Club will host the 150th Silver Spurs Rodeo on February 17-19, 2023 at the Silver Spurs Arena at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee.

During the rodeo, fans will watch contestants from all over the nation compete in rodeo’s seven traditional events: bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, women’s barrel racing, steer wrestling, and team roping for an entire year of bragging rights and $52,500 in cash. Plus, rodeo fans will be entertained by the Spurs’ rodeo clown and talented Silver Spurs Quadrille team, who perform a square dance on horseback, something the club has performed since its inception over 79 years ago.

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

Silver Spurs Riding Club Names 2023 Coca Cola Cowboys, Women’s Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

The Silver Spurs Riding Club recently honored Danny Hall and Jimmy Chapman as their 2023 Coca-Cola Cowboys, and Lois Hall and Leslie Chapman as their 2023 Women’s Lifetime Achievement Award recipients. These awards recognize the many years of service these faithful men and women have provided to the Spurs organization and to the community.

Each year, the Silver Spurs Board of Directors carefully chooses two men to receive the honor of CocaCola Cowboy and two women to receive the Women’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

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

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Country Music Singer Chase Matthew to Perform

#7 Hit, ‘The Way I Am’ at Osceola County Fair

Sunday, February 19th

The 79th Osceola County Fair’s main stage will be rocking when it features country recording artist

Chase Matthew Sunday night February 19 at 6pm. Matthew, whose recent hit, “I Am What I Am” is climbing quickly in popularity in the country music world, and recently joined country artists Morgan Wallen, Dierks Bentley, and Corey Kent in the ACMC’s Top New Music. Matthew was #7 on the chart!

Chase Matthew. A Music City native, and one of Nashville’s hottest newcomers, has independently made a name for himself through his infectious personality, rowdy live performances and authentic, relatable music — amassing a massive 360M+ global career streams.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3XjhPe1

Osceola Awarded Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, 32nd Year in a Row

For the 32nd year in a row, Osceola County has received the highest honor in governmental accounting and financial reporting, a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its annual comprehensive financial report by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada.

“More than three decades of excellence is an amazing benchmark when you think about all the change that has happened in the world during that time,” said Osceola Commission Chairwoman Viviana Janer. “It’s a testament to the professionalism and hard work of county staff to be recognized year after year. I’m proud that we continue to display this level of stewardship over public finances.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3x8dBeu

Osceola

REDI awarded $100,000

for Hurricane Ian Recovery Efforts from Florida Disaster Fund

Osceola REDI has been awarded $100,000 from the Florida Disaster Fund to assist with Hurricane Ian recovery efforts. The announcement was made this week by Florida’s First Lady, Casey DeSantis who said the Florida Disaster Fund has raised over $60 million in donations to help with recovery in communities impacted by Hurricane Ian.

“This really builds on our efforts to harness private-sector philanthropy and generosity to recovery efforts after the impact of Hurricane Ian,” said Osceola County Emergency Management Director Bill Litton, who is on the non-profit’s board of directors. “It will further the mission of Osceola REDI (Recovery from Emergency Disaster Initiative) to assist local disaster victims through pooling of community resources and assistance.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3xc3oOc

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Local Businessman, Leader in Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Ryan R. Munns, to hit the mission fields of France

After serving for nine years as president of the St. Cloud Florida stake for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Osceola County, President Ryan R. Munns was released in October of 2022 as president and will be headed to Paris France for 3 years to oversee 100+ proselyting and service missionaries, leaving behind his career at Bogin, Munns and Munns, and life in Saint Cloud.

A partner at the law firm Bogin, Munns and Munns, Ryan Munns, who was known for a spirit of optimism and friendliness, provided countless hours of service to Church members and community members alike in Osceola County.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/40CU181

City of Kissimmee, Osceola Library System to host 10th annual African American Read-In February 25

The City of Kissimmee, along with the Osceola Library System will host the 10th annual African American Read-In on Saturday, February 25th at the Kissimmee Civic Center from 1 to 4 pm.

The African American Read-In is a unique openmic style event that celebrates African-American authors and artists that made significant cultural and artistic impacts on our nation and the world. Over one million readers from around the world will once again promote literacy and history in their communities.

Members of the community are welcome to volunteer to read or perform a selection at this event by reading a selection given to them, or by bringing their own piece. All pieces read must be written by an African American.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3jO1r7J

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Come Show Your Heart and Heart Health, This Saturday in the Kissimmee 5K, Still Time to Register!

Kissimmee Main Street’s Kissimmee 5K is a Valentine’s week tradition, and this Saturday February 11th, it will be all about the heart and heart health!

The annual 5K will kick off at 7:30 am and make its way along the beautiful Kissimmee lakefront and through historic downtown Kissimmee streets. Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers, but runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Strollers are welcome, so feel free to bring the entire family to the event! Come dressed in your favorite Valentine attire and be a part of the costume contests for Cutest Cupid, Prettiest Pair, and Care Club for large groups.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3x8dBeu

Property Appraiser Katrina Scarborough Announces Update on Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole Property Tax Refund

Osceola County Property Appraiser, Katrina Scarborough, CFA, CCF, MCF, has announced that Osceola County homeowners may be eligible for a partial refund of 2022 property taxes if a residential improvement was rendered uninhabitable for at least 30 days due to Hurricane Ian or Hurricane Nicole.

A Florida Homeowner’s Guide: Property Tax Relief for Hurricanes Ian and Nicole and Fillable Application is located on the Osceola County Property Appraiser’s Office website https://www.property-appraiser.org/forms/.

According to the Department of Revenue, “To be eligible for a partial property tax refund, the property must be determined “uninhabitable.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3xc3oOc

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Osceola Commissioners Recognize Dr. R. LeWayne Johnson as the Lt. Lloyd Burton, Jr. Service Award Winner

Dr. R. LeWayne Johnson, a retired military officer, Bronze Star recipient, and combat veteran was recognized as the Lt. Lloyd Burton, Jr. Service Award winner by Osceola County Commissioners on Monday.

Johnson is the Chief Executive Officer of The Florida Coalition to Prevent Veteran Homelessness, Inc., who is dedicated to ensuring that veterans have access to assistance, founded the organization in 2021 to prevent and end veterans’ homelessness across Florida.

“Dr. Johnson has provided invaluable service to our country and community –both as a member of the military and as a private citizen,” said Osceola Commission Chairwoman Viviana Janer. “His dedication to veterans experiencing homelessness and his efforts to assist them are an exemplary example of a citizen inspired to take action to help others. We’re lucky that he calls Osceola County home and we are grateful for everything he contributes to our community.”

Johnson’s activism turned into action when Johnson and his wife saw a man begging for money. He noticed that the man was wearing a military cap, so he asked if he was a veteran. The man replied that he was, but that the VA had been unresponsive to his claims. As a result, he lost his apartment and resorted to begging on the streets. Moved by the man’s situation, Johnson contacted the Salvation Army and the Mercy Foundation to get the man and his pregnant wife into a shelter. This led to the creation of the coalition that pulls together community resources to help veterans, while advocating for affordable housing, employment opportunities, suicide prevention, and mental health treatments.

Johnson says he found inspiration in his grandmother’s example. She was a midwife but never realized her dream of becoming a nurse or a doctor due to racial barriers. He credits her work ethic and empathy for others as motivating forces.

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Orlando Health Cancer Institute –St. Cloud Celebrates Official Grand Opening

Orlando Health Cancer Institute – St. Cloud celebrated the phased opening this month of the first comprehensive cancer center in the St. Cloud community.

The 7,200-square-foot facility, housed within Orlando Health Medical Pavilion – St. Cloud, features six exam rooms, a consultation room and an inhouse lab.

“Orlando Health Cancer Institute is nationally recognized for the superb cancer and hematology care we give patients,” said Margo Shoup, MD, president of Orlando Health Cancer Institute. “We are excited to have the opportunity to offer this great care to the St. Cloud community so that patients can stay as close to home as possible, while being treated with the expertise they would expect from Orlando Health.”

Patients who need chemotherapy, immunotherapy or IV therapy began receiving infusions in 10 semi-private bays, which opened this month. Two private infusion bays and a pharmacy are set to open in summer 2023.

“At the Orlando Health Cancer Institute in St. Cloud, you get the benefit of the entire hospital system,” said Simi George, MD, lead oncologist at the facility. “You get access to state-of-the-art surgery, access to clinical trials – all the things you would get at a big cancer center, with the bulk of the treatment being delivered close to home.”

Patients will have access to resources and support services, including nutritional care, counseling, pain management, palliative care and cancer support groups. Orlando Health Cancer Institute – St. Cloud is the organization’s fifth regional oncology facility, including Osceola and others in Lake Mary, Ocoee, and Orlando’s Dr. Phillips-area. The 3,238-bed system includes 23 hospitals and emergency departments – 18 of which are currently operational with five coming soon. The Orlando Health has more than 4,000 physicians, representing more than 100 medical specialties and subspecialties have privileges across the Orlando Health system.

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Osceola Chamber ‘Maxes Out’ its 98th Meeting at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Dressed in 60s, 70s, & 80s

On Saturday night, The Osceola Chamber gathered for its 98th Annual Meeting at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The ‘totally gnarly’ organization, whose mission is “Champions for business and the Osceola community” ‘maxed out’ the celebration with a bit of ‘retro flare’ in the evening’s theme of 60s, 70s, & 80s.

The ‘out of sight’ night began in typical cocktail party fashion, then moved into the main event where the gavel was officially passed from last year’s ‘fab’ chair Kevin Crain, owner of Osceola Press in Kissimmee, to current chair Allison Beeman, ‘totally cool’ sales account manager with Cemex, who was ‘stoked’ to lead the event and the chamber for the next year.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3JLtsr6

Woman killed in fiery rollover crash in Osceola County, troopers say

A woman is dead after crashing her car on State Road 60 west of Mae Bass Rd around 10:25pm Tuesday night, causing it to rollover and catch fire, according to FHP.

According to a crash report from Florida Troopers, woman from the UK was driving a sedan on SR 60, and for an unknown reason, traveled onto the right shoulder, overturned and came to rest on the roof of the car. The vehicle became “engulfed by fire,” and the driver was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers said they are still working to identify the vehicle, driver and cause of the crash.

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Broadband internet expansion coming to rural Osceola, including Kenansville, Yeehaw Junction, Deer Park, and Bull Creek

Large rural portions of Osceola County can look forward to expanded access to broadband internet thanks to Florida’s Broadband Opportunity Grant Program announced by Gov. Ron DeSantis last Thursday. The Governors said that a total of 58 projects valued at more than $144 million will take place across 41 Florida counties. In Osceola, including a private sector match from Charter Communications for build out, the total will be about $15 million.

“Broadband internet access creates jobs and enhances educational opportunities for Floridians. I look forward to continued investments through this program to ensure Florida families have access to important resources no matter where they live, said Governor Ron DeSantis. ”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3Yu4rEU

Poinciana area boil water advisory lifted, customers may see pressure issues while repairs are completed

Toho Water Authority (Toho) has lifted a precautionary boil water advisory to customers in the Poinciana area.

The boil water advisory was issued due to a water main break under Reedy Creek that has been isolated. Customers may continue to see pressure issues while the repairs are being completed, but there is no need to boil water.

Customers who use potable water for irrigation are asked to use it sparingly while more permanent repairs are put into place. For more information, visit www.tohowater.com or contact Toho Water Authority’s customer service center at 407-944-5000.

Osceola Clerk of Court & County Comptroller Kelvin Soto To Host Valentine’s Day Group Wedding Ceremony

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!

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

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Dr. Aaron Walton Joins Osceola County Animal Services as Staff Veterinarian

Dr. Aaron Walton, a veterinarian with more than 26 years of experience in small animal medicine, has joined the Osceola County Animal Services team as their staff veterinarian.

Walton is an advocate for the injured or ill animals that often arrive at Animal Services – either because they are lost, have been mistreated or their owners no longer have the means to care for them

“A lot of animals have medical issues when they come here, it’s the sensible thing to handle some medical and surgical cases in-house,” Walton said. “Some need to be referred to other practices for treatments but in the end, it’s really rewarding to help treat an animal so that it is ultimately adoptable. Strays can present with a lot of issues from malnourishment to fleas, skin ailments or injuries, he said.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3WO2F0i

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Gateway Easily Advances, St. Cloud and Harmony Eliminated in Girls Basketball

Osceola County’s state playoff hopes in girls basketball now rests solely with the Gateway Panthers.

Malayna Stephenson scored 13 of her game-high 23 points in the first quarter, as the Panthers (22-6) raced past Ocala Vanguard, 72-31, to advance to the FHSAA Class 5A, Region 2 semifinals. They will host Lake Wales on Tuesday night (Feb. 14).

“It was a total team win for us tonight,” Panthers coach Justin Marino said. “We did a great job hitting the threes and working the ball inside when it was available.”

Stephenson was unstoppable in the first period. She hit all four of her field goal attempts and went five of five from the free throw stripe, in addition to dishing out three assists. Only the hot three-point shooting of Kenaria Dowdy (three for three), kept the score relatively close at 21-15 after one quarter.

That would change in the second period. Alyssa Marino hit three field goals –including two three-pointers – and Vanessa Diaz added three more field goals as the Panthers outscored the Knights 20-6 in the period to build a 42-21 lead.

Stephenson added two more assists in the period to give her five in the half. “Malayna and Vanessa are our big guns, but they – like the rest of the team – are totally unselfish,” Marino said. “Our kids are always looking to dish to the open player.”

Any chance of a Vanguard rally was put to rest early in the third period.

Stephenson added eight more and her teammates hit three-threes from beyond the arc to spur a 23-point quarter. Stephenson’s late bucket extended the lead to 34 points and a Kiarra McCall free throw in the opening seconds of the fourth period triggered a running clock for the rest of the game.

For the contest, the Panthers shot 57 percent from beyond the arc (12 of 21) and 60 percent overall for the game (29 of 47). In addition to Stephenson’s 23 points, Diaz and Marino added 13 each; Evana Rivera added eight. Gateway would play its reserves the entire fourth quarter.

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Celebration Foundation Concert Series to Feature Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra Saturday February 18

The Celebration Foundation Concert Series continues on Saturday, February 18 at 3pm with the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra, sponsored by Experience Kissimmee.

Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras educate and inspire Florida’s top young musicians with programs that reflect a commitment to provide young musicians with the opportunity to strengthen their musical talents.

The Symphonic Orchestra, under Music Director & Symphonic Conductor Dr. James Welsch, is a pre-professional, conservatory level orchestra in which students are challenged with exceptionally difficult literature.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3RbgRz4

Governor DeSantis announces $7 billion infrastructure plan aimed at traffic congestion relief over 4 years, including Central Florida

Today, Governor DeSantis announced the Moving Florida Forward initiative to expedite transportation projects over the next four years, mainly in Central and South Florida. If passed by the legislature, this proposal would invest $4 billion of general revenue, redirect an average of $131 million annually to the State Transportation Work Program, and leverage additional funding over the next four years for a total of $7 billion to strengthen Florida’s transportation infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of people that rely on Florida’s roadways.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/406W6Zo

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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

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.

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

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

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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State Representative Kristen Arrington Files to Run for State Senate District 25

On Wednesday State Representative for District 46 Kristen Arrington drove to Tallahassee, not for a special legislative session, or a committee meeting ahead of the upcoming Florida legislative session which takes place in March, but rather, to file to run for State Senate District 25, the seat currently filled by Victor Torres, who will not be running for reelection due to term limits. District 25 in the Florida Senate includes all of Osceola County, and a portion of Southwest Orange County.

Arrington, who is currently serving her second term in the Florida House, is from Osceola County, went to school and college within her district, owns a small business locally, and is married to Osceola County Commissioner for District 3, Brandon Arrington. Her role as state representative may take her away from the county and off to the Capitol in Tallahassee, but she has continued to be plugged into the local community she serves by working with organizations like Hope Partnership, the Osceola Council On Aging, SNiP-it and more.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/40oBewY

Osceola County in Line for Billions from Governor’s Transportation Improvements Program

An initiative announced by Governor Ron DeSantis on Monday that would allocate $7 billion in traffic congestion relief to the state, including $2.8 billion to Osceola County for needed transportation improvements designed to benefit commuters and businesses, has brought praise from Osceola County leaders.

“Osceola is already on the move with $2.4 billion dollars being invested in transportation and infrastructure but this additional support from the state will advance critical transformational projects,” said Osceola County Commission Chairwoman Viviana Janer. “Connecting the Poinciana Parkway to I-4 is a significant step in creating a beltway system around the county and relieving gridlock throughout Osceola.”

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

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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

INJURY LAW

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.

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Draper Law: Even minor car accidents can cause back injuries, don’t wait to seek medical attention

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: http://bit.ly/3i91cD0

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Country Thunder to roar back to Osceola County in 2023 with Country Music Superstars Keith Urban, Cody Johnson, & Hardy

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!”

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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.

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HEALTH

Cholesterol is one of the most well-known, yet misunderstood, compounds found in the body. One of the biggest misconceptions is that all cholesterol is bad. The truth is that your body would fall apart without this critical component, which is essential for making cell membranes and hormones.

What’s important to know is that there is a difference between what’s commonly referred to as “good cholesterol” and “bad cholesterol.”

Cholesterol travels through your body’s bloodstream on two different types of lipoproteins – particles made of protein and fat. The types are:

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): This is the so-called bad cholesterol. When your body has too much of it, it can create dangerous buildup (plaque) on the walls of your blood vessels. Over time, this blockage can cause chest pain, heart attacks and strokes.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL): This good cholesterol transports cholesterol back to the liver, where it can be eliminated from your body. High levels of this material can help lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.

With that in mind, let’s look at some of the other common misconceptions and myths about cholesterol.

1. If I had high cholesterol, I would know it

The reality is that high cholesterol fits into the category of disorders and conditions referred to as “silent.” Particularly in the early stages, high cholesterol offers no noticeable symptoms. Waiting for your body to tell you that you have high cholesterol can be dangerous, since it may announce itself through a heart attack, chest pain, stroke or diabetes. Only a blood test can tell if you have cholesterol issues.

2. I can’t do anything to lower my cholesterol

Fortunately, there are a lot of things you can do to improve your cholesterol levels. The first options are diet and exercise, followed by medication. Making better diet choices, in particular, can both lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol. You should cut back on foods that are high in saturated fats, dietary cholesterol, salt, refined grains and ultra-processed food.

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IN THE LOOP - THEME PARK NEWS

Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2023 Celebration

Kicks Off this Saturday at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Orlando Resort guests can let the good times roll and party beyond the bayou starting this Saturday, February 4 during Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. The fan-favorite event returns to Universal Studios Florida with a dazzling parade, mouthwatering cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations and star-studded live concerts on select nights.

Running daily through April 16, this year’s festivities invite guests to:

• Enjoy eight live performances by top names in music like Sean Paul, Maren Morris and Goo Goo Dolls at the Music Plaza Stage on select nights (see below for full concert lineup)

• Catch beads by the handful during this year’s dazzling “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras” parade – featuring six new floats inspired by fantastical creatures like dragons, phoenixes, unicorns and more that will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats – such as the iconic, two-story Riverboat and nearly 50-foot-long King Gator. Plus, guests can take the celebration to the next level and be part of the festivities by tossing beads to fellow partygoers by purchasing the new Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, which includes a 3-course meal at one of four participating restaurants and one Mardi Gras parade float rider reservation.

• Taste the mouthwatering flavors of global Carnaval celebrations from New Orleans to Brazil to Belgium and beyond with an expansive menu featuring more than 50 tasting-sized items. Plus, guests can enjoy more for less with the purchase of the Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card by paying $65 for a $75 card, and Universal Orlando Passholders have exclusive access to a $150 card for only $120.

• Stock up on the latest Mardi Gras merchandise at this year’s Mardi Gras Tribute Store, located in an all-new space in the Hollywood area of the park. The highly immersive retail location is themed to represent an international jazz celebration that leads to the traditional alleyways of New Orleans and ultimately into a speakeasy where the Mardi Gras festivities continue.

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Roundup Rodeo BBQ Brings Even More Toy-Sized Fun to Disney’s Hollywood Studios Beginning March 23

Yee-haw! Andy’s backyard will welcome more toys when Roundup Rodeo BBQ opens in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios March 23.

A unique collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney World Food & Beverage, this one-of-akind dining experience will be the first “Toy Story” table service restaurant in the world.

Like all of Toy Story Land, Roundup Rodeo brings to life the stories, characters and heart from the award-winning Disney Pixar “Toy Story” films. It is a place where guests shrink to the size of a toy and feel like they have stepped into a clever, whimsical world filled with beloved toys.

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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

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