ENDOMETRIOSIS
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MAGAZINE Mar/Apr 2017
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH Not to be missed...
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WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH LUNCHEON
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MAR APR 2017
MAGAZINE
from the publisher Dear Osceola Women, I hope you’ll consider joining us for our Women of Influence luncheon on Wednesday, March 23rd at Osceola Heritage Park. For $25, you’ll get to hear from our featured speakers, eat a delicious lunch, check out a few displays from local, women-owned businesses, and network with women from different industries and walks of life. In this issue, you’ll find a feature filled with photos of historic Osceola County women, important information on endometriosis from Osceola Regional Medical Center, and information on the fun, family-friendly events surrounding the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo in April. (If you haven’t been
to a rodeo, you’re missing out! It’s my second favorite sport… Just behind Gator football!) In the spirit of Women’s History Month this March, I want to highlight some of the women who have been influential in my life. My mother, Kena Blain, who raised me on her own and provided me with everything I needed – from food and a roof to love and support during darker days. Not only has she taught me valuable life lessons, she’s also taught me everything I know about publishing, quality content, and providing value to our advertising partners here at Osceola Woman Magazine. My dear friend and adopted aunt, the late JoAnn Overstreet, who was an adored leader in the community and a loving wife and mother. She embraced the
cattle ranching lifestyle and managed to make it a little more feminine and classy. She never met a stranger, and she was always willing to help anyone she knew, no matter who they were or were not. The women of Fat Boy's Bar-B-Q in Kissimmee, who I had the pleasure of working with for nearly seven years. These women are some of the hardest working women out there, and I thank them for sharing their life lessons and work ethics with me. And, of course, my gal pals – they’re loving, giving, encouraging, creative, and spunky souls who inspire me and lift me up regularly. Many are native Osceolans who are doing their part to share our history and heritage with newer residents of this fine community that we all call home.
What are you doing to celebrate Women’s History Month? I encourage you all to take a few minutes this season to thank the women who help you along the way! Until next time,
departments HEALTH
Staying fit and healthy ENDOMETRIOSIS THE “INVISIBLE” DISEASE AFFECTING MILLIONS OF WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD! p8-9
HOW DOES ENDOMETRIOSIS AFFECT FERTILITY? p10-11
LIFE, WORK & PLAY
All the goods of living in Osceola
TRADITIONS AT EASTER p12 YOU, WOMEN’S HISTORY, AND THE POWER OF SOCIAL SECURITY p14 PET HEALTH ISSUES: THE HEART p16 USE YOUR TAX REFUND WISELY p18 FASHION HIGHLIGHTS p20
COMMUNITY
People, events and activities 5 REASONS WHY YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THE RAM NATIONAL CIRCUIT FINALS RODEO p22 WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH LUNCHEON p23 OSCEOLA ARTS PRESENTS FLORIDA MOSAIC: A FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS p24-25 CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH p26-29 AROUND OSCEOLA - OSCEOLA READS INITIATIVE SURPASSES ITS YEAR ONE GOAL p30
MAR/APR 2017
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OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM IS PUBLISHED BIMONTHLY AND IS AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE, BY SUBSCRIPTION, DISPLAY STANDS IN APPROVED PRIVATE AND PUBLIC ESTABLISHMENTS AND AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORS ONLY. TRADEMARK AND U.S. COPYRIGHT LAWS PROTECT OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM. NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER. OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY EDITORIAL COMMENT (OTHER THAN ITS OWN), TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS FROM ADVERTISEMENTS SUBMITTED AS CAMERA-READY OR ANY REPRODUCTIONS OF ADVERTISEMENTS SUBMITTED AS CAMERA-READY. IF AN ADVERTISEMENT DOES NOT MEET OUR STANDARDS OF ACCEPTANCE, WE MAY REVISE OR CANCEL IT AT ANY TIME, WHETHER OR NOT IS HAS BEEN ALREADY ACKNOWLEDGED AND/OR PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED. THE ADVERTISER ASSUMES SOLE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL STATEMENTS CONTAINED IN SUBMITTED COPY AND WILL PROTECT AND INDEMNIFY THE OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGZINETM, ITS OWNERS, PUBLISHERS, AND EMPLOYEES AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, LOSS OR EXPENSE ARISING OUT OF CLAIMS FOR LIBEL, UNFAIR TRADE NAMES, PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS AND PROPRIETY RIGHTS, AND ALL VIOLATIONS OF THE RIGHT OF PRIVACY OR OTHER VIOLATIONS RESULTING FROM THE PUBLICATION BY THIS MAGAZINE OF ITS ADVERTISING COPY. PUBLISHER SHALL BE UNDER NO LIABILITY FOR FAILURE, FOR ANY REASON, TO INSERT AN ADVERTISEMENT. PUBLISHER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE BY REASON OF ERROR, OMISSION AND/OR FAILURE TO INSERT ANY PART OF AN ADVERTISEMENT. PUBLISHER WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR DELAY OR FAILURE IN PERFORMANCE IN PUBLICATION AND/OR DISTRIBUTION OF ALL OR ANY PORTION OF AN ISSUE IS DELAYED OR SUSPENDED FOR ANY REASON. THE PUBLISHER WILL EXERCISE REASONABLE JUDGMENT IN THESE INSTANCES AND WILL MAKE ADJUSTMENTS FOR THE ADVERTISER WHERE AND WHEN APPROPRIATE. OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGZINETM ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR UNSOLICITED MATERIAL OR REPRODUCTIONS MADE BY ADVERTISERS. THIS MAGAZINE WILL BE PUBLISHED BY THE 15TH OF EVERY OTHER MONTH. THE OPINIONS OF OUR AUTHORS DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF OSCEOLA WOMAN MAGAZINETM, OUR PUBLISHER, OUR EDITORIAL TEAM AND/OR OUR ADVISORY BOARD. THE AUTHORS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT OF THEIR SUBMITTED MATERIAL.
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7
HEALTH
ENDOMETRIOSIS The “invisible” disease affecting millions of women around the world! WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS? Endometriosis is defined as endometrial glands or stroma (tissue that is inside of the uterus) occurring outside the uterus. Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women worldwide, and can occur in adolescents and teens. Let’s talk a little more about this disease. Typically, the endometrium comprises the innermost lining of the uterus. It grows, in response to the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, during the month and then is shed when a woman has her menstrual cycle. Endometriosis is what happens when this tissue does not remain in its usual neighborhood, but instead grows outside the uterus. It can grow on organs such as the uterus, ovaries, small or large intestines, rectum, bladder, peritoneum or even outside the pelvis. It has been found in organs such as the diaphragm, lung or even the brain, but luckily these sites are less common.
THE CAUSE OF ENDOMETRIOSIS is currently believed to be
multifactorial. It was believed that endometriosis starts when endometrial cells and menstrual blood flow backwards out through the fallopian tubes and make their way into the abdominal cavity. They can then implant, grow and disseminate further from there. However, there are many additional factors that are known to be related to endometriosis, including altered immune system function and genetics.
WHAT ABOUT THE SYMPTOMS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS? Well, the symptoms vary according to how extensive the endometriosis is and where the endometrial implants are located. These symptoms typically occur during the menstrual cycle but some women have symptoms throughout the month, even daily.
SYMPTOMS May include but are not limited to: Heavy or prolonged bleeding Breakthrough bleeding/bleeding between cycles Pain or bleeding during or after intercourse Pelvic, abdominal, and/or back pain Pain with urination or bowel movements Change in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation) Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant Pain outside the abdomen/pelvis – such as shoulder, under the rib cage or chest (this can happen due to endometriosis on the diaphragm or in the lungs).
It can cause no pain, minimal pain or debilitating pain. Women may suffer for many years before being diagnosed or may be misdiagnosed with other causes of pain or heavy bleeding. The definitive method to diagnose endometriosis is through a laparoscopy (typically by a gynecologist) to identify endometriosis lesions, both inside and outside the pelvis. There are some gynecologists who focus specifically on endometriosis and pelvic pain. Once it is diagnosed, there are many options for treatment. Options can include no treatment if the symptoms are mild or tolerable. Or can range from medical options to surgery. Medical options for treatment can include forms of birth control (pills, ring, patches), IUDs, or
Looking for a support group? Join Endometriosis Warriors of Central Florida on Facebook!
8 osceolawoman.com | MAR/APR 2017
injectable medications to suppress hormones, such as Depo Lupron. Surgical options include laparoscopic or open surgery to remove the endometriosis. Expert laparoscopic excision(LAPEX) is an effective approach to treating patients with endometriosis. However, depending on where the lesions are located, excision may not be an option, without causing damage to the organ that the lesion is on (such as bowel or diaphragm). Ablation of endometriosis may only be temporarily effective unfortunately, as the return of endometriosis can occur. Some studies have quoted a recurrence rate of up to 70% after ablation/fulgaration (burning) of endometriosis. Endometriosis may often take an emotional toll on Women, in addition to the physical manifestations. Women may feel like their bodies are defeating them or lose hope for living without pain/discomfort. It effects them personally, but can effect marriages, their sex lives, work (due to needing time off due to pain), and relationships with friends. Much like mental illness, the disease does not show outward physical signs other than pain, and patients may not receive the needed support from those around them.
Many women may suffer in silence. MARCH IS ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS MONTH. If you, or someone you know, may be suffering from endometriosis, it is best to seek out an endometriosis specialist or gynecologist to discuss further evaluation. Information and support about endometriosis and treatment options are available through seeking medical care and via local support groups such as Endometriosis Warriors of Central Florida on Facebook. By joining support groups, you will receive reviews on current medicines, procedures and practicing professionals. This information may help you better advocate for yourself or someone you love who is suffering from this “invisible disease”.
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HEALTH
How Does Endometriosis Affect Fertility? Learn why endometriosis can make it harder to get pregnant and find out about fertility treatments Endometriosis is a painful condition that’s caused by the growth of uterine tissue, or endometrium, outside of the uterus. Up to 50 percent of women with endometriosis may have a hard time getting pregnant, but it’s often still possible to start a family if you receive the proper treatments and support.
Why does endometriosis sometimes cause infertility? Patches of uterine tissue may grow on your ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder or other organs with endometriosis. Those tissues bleed each month when you get your period, regardless of where they are in your body. When pockets of blood form without the vagina to escape through, they can cause swelling, inflammation and scarring. Scarring and inflammation
may then lead to infertility. For example: •Inflammation could interfere with the way your ovaries and uterus function •Blood-filled cysts may form in your ovaries, preventing ovulation •Uterine tissue can block your fallopian tubes, keeping your eggs from meeting sperm •The endometrium inside your uterus might not grow enough, making it harder for a fertilized egg to grow into a healthy pregnancy
To determine why you’re having trouble getting pregnant, your fertility specialist may complete a fertility evaluation, or a series of tests that could include blood work, a physical exam and a trans-vaginal ultrasound. That information can let him or her know which treatments may work best for you.
Your fertility treatment options Laparoscopic surgery is the most effective treatment for infertility from endometriosis. It may be used to diagnose the cause of your infertility, determine how widespread your endometriosis is or remove tissue patches that could be blocking pregnancy.
During this procedure, a surgeon will make tiny cuts on your abdomen. He or she will guide a small camera and thin instruments through the cuts. They’ll then use the instruments to find and remove tissue patches. Many women are able to conceive naturally after surgery, but some require additional treatments. Other treatments include: •In vitro fertilization (IVF): IVF involves combining a number of your eggs with sperm in a lab dish. Once pairs are formed, they’re placed
If you have endometriosis, talk to your OB/GYN about your plans for starting a family and what treatment options are right for you. To find an OB/GYN, visit our online physician directory at OsceolaRegional.com or call our Consult-A-Nurse® free physician referral line at (800) 447-8206.
10 osceolawoman.com | MAR/APR 2017
back into your uterus so that one pair, or embryo, may develop into a pregnancy. •Medications: Your fertility specialist might recommend medications to help you ovulate regularly or release multiple eggs in one month. Medications are often used alongside other treatments like IVF. If you do get pregnant, having endometriosis won’t hurt the baby. In fact, the symptoms of endometriosis often improve during pregnancy.
What if you’re not ready to get pregnant, but you’d like a family some day? Taking hormonal birth control pills now can increase your chances of getting pregnant later. These pills decreases the number of times you ovulate and periods each year. Since every period could cause scarring to your ovaries, fallopian tubes or uterus, having fewer periods can boost your odds of getting pregnant in the long run.
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SOCIAL SECURITY | By Blanca Taylor |
M
arch is Women’s History Month — a time to focus not just on the past, but on the challenges women continue to face. Nearly 60 percent of the people receiving Social Security benefits are women, and in the 21st century, more women work, pay Social Security taxes, and earn credit toward monthly retirement income than at any other time in our nation’s history. Knowing this, you can be the author of your own rich and independent history, with a little preparation. Social Security has served a vital role in the lives of women for over 80 years. With longer life expectancies than men, women tend to live more years in retirement and have a greater chance of exhausting other sources of income. With the national average life expectancy for women in the United States rising, many women will have decades to enjoy retirement. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a female born today can expect to live more than 80 years. As a result, experts generally agree that if women want to ensure that their retirement years are comfortable, they need to plan early and wisely.
of your retirement benefits. Plug in different retirement ages and projected earnings to get an idea of how such things might change your future benefit amounts. You can use this valuable tool at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. You should also visit Social Security’s financial planning website at www.socialsecurity. gov/planners. It provides detailed information about how marriage, widowhood, divorce, selfemployment, government service, and other life or career events can affect your Social Security. Your benefits are based on your earnings, so you should create your personal My Social Security Account to verify that your earnings were reported correctly. Your account also can provide estimates of your future retirement, disability, and survivors benefits.
You can start with a visit to Social Security’s Retirement Estimator. It gives you a personalized estimate
If you want more information about how Social Security supports women through life’s journey, Social Security has a booklet that you may find useful. It’s called Social Security: What Every Woman Should Know. You can find it online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10127.html.
14 osceolawoman.com | MAR/APR 2017
MAR/APR 2017
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PET HEALTH ISSUES: | By Dr. Gary A. Borgman |
I
n the Jan./Feb. issue of Osceola Woman Magazine, I indicated that I would address the various body systems in future articles. So… I will begin with the cardio-vascular system. As we all know, healthy heart function is absolutely essential for humans and animals.
Fortunately, dogs and cats have very few heart birth defects. The seldom-encountered patent ductus arteriosis condition is failure of a shunt (between the pulmonary artery and aorta) to close at birth resulting in very poor oxygenation to the body tissues. When we listen to the heart of these unfortunate young puppies, we hear a very pronounced “machinery murmur” instead of a nice regular “lub-dub”. These patients often are weak, lethargic, and exercise-intolerant. Their gums and tongue are often bluish instead of pink. The only treatment option is a risky heart surgery by a specialist surgeon. Fortunately, though, this is a very rare
condition. In my 47 years of practice, I can count on one hand the number of cases I’ve encountered. Occasionally we will detect a mild “functional murmur” in a young animal with no adverse symptoms. Oftentimes, these patients grow out of it. We also sometimes hear a murmur when puppies or kittens are anemic due to parasites. This is because the blood is thin. This condition goes away after we correct the anemia. The most common heart conditions of adult dogs and cats are either heart valve disease or cardio-myopathy. When we detect a murmur in small- and medium-sized dogs, it is usually atrio-ventricular disease, meaning the valves are leaking and producing a “whoosh” instead of a nice “lubdub”. We can pick up
these murmurs at any age, but usually it is in middleaged or older patients. Heart murmurs are more common in small dogs. I have detected many heart murmurs at various ages, and the patients are clinically normal. We always alert their owners to be observant for symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF). The symptoms of CHF include coughing, labored breathing, exercise intolerance, lethargy, gagging and spitting up of phlegm or foam and sometimes even collapsing with exercise or stress. Fainting or seizures can also occur. Severe CHF with resultant pulmonary edema is very serious and life-threatening. Fortunately, we have a number of medications available to help relieve lung edema, increase circulation efficiency and strengthen the heart contractures. Before beginning medications, it is best to evaluate the heart and lungs with an x-ray and sometimes ultrasound imaging. Also, we will advise laboratory tests (blood and urine analysis) to evaluate liver, kidney, electrolytes and other health issues. Electrocardiograms are helpful, and we can transmit EKG data to specialists for consultation.
Larger dogs are more likely to suffer from cardiomyopathy, which means unhealthy cardiac musculature. Most of these patients have enlarged heart size and decreased contractural strength. This is a very serious condition and can rapidly advance to become life-threatening. X-ray, ultrasound, EKG, laboratory analysis and consultation with a veterinary cardiologist may be needed. On a personal note, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed is genetically pre-disposed to develop CHF due to heart valve disease. We lost our nine-year-old Princess Leia last year to this condition. I understand the heartbreak of CHF! Our feline patients are also prone to a variety of heart problems. Cats can and do get CHF, hypertension and arrhythmias. Diagnostic work-up (x-ray, EKG, blood pressure monitoring and appropriate laboratory tests) enable appropriate treatments. One example, unique to cats, is a cardiomyopathy secondary to uncontrolled feline hyperthyroidism. I will discuss endocrine diseases in the next issue.
The veterinarians and staff of Kissimmee Animal Hospital (407-846-3912) and Poinciana Pet Clinic (407-518-0880) are available to answer any pet health questions. We are here to help and to serve!
16 osceolawoman.com | MAR/APR 2017
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USE YOUR
WISELY | Cleve Grissom |
IT’S TAX TIME AGAIN – which for many Americans means that a tax refund is on its way. If you’re going to get a refund this year, how can you use the money to your best advantage? Of course, it’s always tempting to spend the check from Uncle Sam on something fun. But a tax refund could be sizable – the average amount in 2016 was $2,857, according to the IRS – so putting this money to work could help boost your progress toward your financial goals. Here are some possibilities for using your refund: • HELP FUND YOUR IRA. If you were to receive a tax refund of $2,857, you’d have slightly more than half of the $5,500 annual IRA contribution limit for 2017, although, if you are 50 or older, you can contribute an extra $1,000. Consequently, you may find it much easier to fully fund your IRA for the year — and you should do exactly that, because an IRA is a great retirement savings vehicle. If you have a traditional IRA, your contributions may be fully or partially deductible, depending on your income, while your earnings can grow tax deferred. (Taxes are due upon withdrawal, and withdrawals prior to age 59½ may be subject to a 10% IRS penalty.) With a Roth IRA, your contributions are not deductible, but your earnings are distributed tax-free, provided you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re 59½ and you’ve had your account at least five years. • HELP DIVERSIFY YOUR PORTFOLIO.
If a market downturn hits one asset class, and that’s where you keep most of your money, you could take a big hit. Owning an array of investments – such as stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, and so on – can help prepare your portfolio to weather the effects
of market volatility, By adding new investments, or increasing your holdings of existing investments, you may be able to further diversify your portfolio – and you can use your refund for this purpose. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss.) • CONTRIBUTE TO A 529 PLAN. If you have children or grandchildren whom you’d like to help send to college, consider using your tax refund to help fund a 529 plan. Your 529 plan contributions may be deductible from your state taxes, and your earnings are distributed tax-free, provided they are used for qualified higher education expenses. (However, withdrawals not used for higher education expenses may be subject to both income tax and a 10% penalty.) • PAY OFF SOME DEBTS. You can help improve your financial picture by reducing your debt load – but it may make sense to prioritize these debts. For example, rather than make an extra mortgage payment, you might want to first tackle those debts or loans that carry a high interest rate and that don’t allow you to deduct interest payments. After all, your monthly mortgage payment will remain the same even if you make an extra payment, but if you can get rid of some smaller debts, you will free up some cash that you could use to invest for your future.
THINK CAREFULLY ABOUT HOW TO USE YOUR TAX REFUND. IT REPRESENTS AN OPPORTUNITY THAT YOU WON’T WANT TO WASTE.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. For more information on investing your money please contact Cleve Grissom at 407-891-7833.
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live, work &
PLAY
As New York Fashion week comes to an end, we know what to look forward to for the Fall/Winter season of 2017/2018. However, we have some warm weather to get through before we get those oversize coats we saw all over the runway! We’ve got you covered for the spring trends of 2017. Take a peek at the fashion trends to get some outfit ideas, and start planning out your style for next season…
HIGHLIGHTS
FIFTY SHADES OF Yellow
Yellow is the color this season. For those of you that think you're one that can’t wear the bright fun color, think again. Every and any shade goes this season!
es p i r t DE S
I EAS
S
SLOGAN Tees They are back and making big statements. Bold lettering was seen on the runways - some political and others just plain sassy. Match it with some thick eyeliner and a maxi skirt and you're ready to go. Whatever you prefer, wear how you feel.
Stripes have made their way to jumpers, dresses and basically everything else! In every color, shape, size and form. Prevailing moods include preppy, beachy and even elegant. We're also calling them statement stripes.
SINGLE SHOULDER CUTOUTS We 've been all about cutouts for a while now in the fashion world. This season is all about strateg ically placed cutouts for maximum impact.
Patchwork
Pairing different prints and colors on one individual piece instantly takes any outfit to the next level. The more prints the better this spring and summer! Just make sure you wear your new statement pieces with classic wardrobe essentials. Hairstyles, haircare tips & tricks, fashion news and much more monthly from the stylists at Victor Russell Salon. A full service, Paul Mitchell Focus Salon located at 105 East 13th street in St. Cloud Florida 34769.
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APRIL 8 & 9 10am - 5pm
Historic Downtown Kissimmee Fine Art Artisan & Craft Market Student Art Exhibit Student Chalk Art Contest Live Music Performance Art Local Restaurants & Food Trucks Free Admission & Free Parking photo: Ryder Gledhill
Become an Art Patron! Join our Patron Purchase Program and get *Early & Exclusive Access to Art *Champagne Brunch Invitation *Artist Award Breakfast Invitation
"Down the Rabbit Hole" ©Janet and Jay O'Rourke Designs ™
Visit us at FloridaMosaic.org Celebrating 50 years of enriching the Osceola County community through the arts.
PLAY
5 Reasons Why You Won’t Want to Miss
THE RAM NATIONAL CIRCUIT FINALS RODEO Alright, ladies. Let’s talk about finding unique, family-friendly entertainment options in Central Florida that won’t break the bank. We all know that Kissimmee is one of the top travel destinations in the world – we have easy access to thrilling theme parks and delicious restaurants. But as locals, it can be tough to wrap our heads around spending hundreds of dollars at the parks or for a meal.
Our rodeo is committed to offering a one-of-a-kind, familyfriendly, and budget-conscious experience that pays homage to our hometown heritage year after year. We like to keep our ticket prices simple – $20 for most performances, but $25 on championship Sunday – and kids 12 and under are always free! So what should you expect if you buy tickets for our national championship rodeo?
FREE CONCERTS, GREAT FOOD, AND COLD BEVERAGES Perhaps you enjoy DJs, live music, a cold beverage, or sampling some of our local flavors. Maybe all of the above? You’re in luck! We can’t wait for performances by some of the best local country and rock bands around town. Also, try some of our favorite local bites, like our Kowtown Crusher Burger or the Pork Belly Mac and Cheese!
FREE PARKING!
live, work &
Yep... Free! We’ve all been to events before where parking costs you almost as much as your ticket to the event. What a bummer, right? We want to be sure you know you are welcome, and that everyone gets treated like a VIP.
THE KIDS ZONE AT OUR TAILGATE EXPERIENCE
Your kids are gonna love it! This year we’ve expanded our Tailgate Experience Kids Zone by offering even more fun activities for you and your family to enjoy. Our Kids Zone, great for all ages, includes bounce houses, face painting, bungee trampolines, rock climbing walls, corn hole boards, ziplines, rodeo games, and more! Best of all, it’s F-R-E-E!
A RODEO EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER
The RNCFR is hands down one of the best rodeo experiences you can witness in Florida. You’ll be watching the top 200+ cowboys and cowgirls, who are already champions in their events, go head-to-head competing for $1 million in cash and prizes. Meet contestants like bareback rider Tim O'Connell, the reigning Wrangler National Finals Rodeo world champion and two time RNCFR All-Around Champion Josh Peek! These are the type of quality of contestants you’ll get to see compete.
MEET AND GREETS WITH THE CONTESTANTS
For more information visit www.rncfr.com
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Do you have a favorite circuit rodeo contestant? Would you like to meet them? No problem – we can hook you up! After each performance of the RNCFR, the winning contestants will be out in our Tailgate Experience for an autograph session. Shake their hands, introduce yourself, and take a Snapchat pic with them! The contestants love to interact with their fans, and at the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo, we like to provide ample opportunity for them to do so. There are many things to experience at our rodeo, so whether you are a rodeo regular or a first-timer, we hope you’ll check out the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo April 6th-9th at Osceola Heritage Park!
COMMUNITY
OSCEOLA ARTS PRESENTS
Florida Mosaic:
A Festival of the Arts
F
or one weekend this coming April, historic downtown Kissimmee will be transformed into an inclusive art showcase for the Florida Mosaic: A Festival of the Arts. The festival is hosted by Osceola Arts in partnership with Kissimmee Main Street and the City of Kissimmee. For the last 55 years, Osceola Arts has been enriching Osceola County in theatre, fine art, music, and arts education through the many programs held at their facility. Each year they take over historic downtown Kissimmee for an entire weekend and host hundreds of fine artists, crafters, artisans, musicians, and performers for The Osceola Art Festival. As this year’s event – a milestone 50th – approaches, Osceola Arts is excited to announce a rebranding of the event. The new title, Florida Mosaic: A Festival of the Arts, embodies the updated vision the organizers have for the event. While keeping all of the current art elements, those
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attending the festival will see the expansion of other forms of art including music and performing arts. “Florida Mosaic: A Festival of the Arts is an opportunity for the community to come together in celebration of artistic creation and culture,” said Osceola Arts’ Visual Arts Director, Marilyn Cortes-Lovato. “Participation in creative cultural activities like the art festival helps connect people to each other and the community. It creates opportunities for community dialogue, creative community building, shared cultural experiences, and can improve economic development.” Admission and parking for the festival are free, and those in
attendance can see a variety of art elements showcased in different ways. Festival activities include a juried art show, local artisans and crafters market, student art display, student chalk art contest, live music and art performances, local restaurants, specialized food
vendors, and traveling entertainment. The festival also offers an Art Patron Purchase Program, which provides a rewarding opportunity to own original and unique art. Individuals
where art and community come together.
or businesses pledge to purchase artwork from the artists in attendance at the festival. These good faith pledges, beginning at $150, bolster support for the arts and the community. In addition, all future Florida Mosaic: A Festival of the Arts events will be held in the spring. To kick things off, the 2017 festival will be held on Saturday, April 8th and Sunday, April 9th and will continue to be held along Broadway in historic downtown Kissimmee. As downtown Kissimmee begins its exciting new redevelopment, the date change will allow Florida Mosaic: A Festival of the
Arts to continue offering residents, merchants, and visitors – both old and new – an immersive arts experience in the heart of the City amid a beautifully unique backdrop. Anyone interested in participating in any of the aspect of the festival should visit the festival website at
www.FloridaMosaic.org for more information. Join Osceola Arts, Kissimmee Main Street, and the City of Kissimmee on April 8-9, 2017 for Florida Mosaic: A Festival of the Arts, an event where art and community come together.
3rd Annual RNCFR
Skirts & Spurs (Brunch & Style Show)
benefiting the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund
April 8th, 2017 10:30am-12:30pm (doors open at 10am)
Osceola Heritage Park • KVLS Pavilion 1911 Kissimmee Valley Lane • Kissimmee, FL
Tickets $40 each For more information or tickets:
www.justincowboycrisisfund.org jccfinfo@prrodeo.com or 719.440.7255
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Celebrating Women’s History Month From Red Cross workers to generations of Miss Silver Spurs pageant queens to Osceola’s first female elected officials, women have influenced Osceola County’s culture and values for decades. This month, we’re looking back at the women who celebrated monumental “firsts” and left their
marks, paving the way for more trailblazing women like all of us, so that we can spend our days in board rooms, raising the next generation, working on cattle ranches, serving our constituents, making folks more beautiful, ending homelessness, helping people heal, and so much more.
Minnie Moore Wilson- First President of Woman’s Club (1915-Kissimmee)
Red Cross workers at St. John Episcopal Church Dale Logsdon, Margaret Parish Hall. Cudahay, Mabel Parks, Betty Milsap, Dana Ray, Lola Norris, Mary Lupfer, Mabel Pearson, Aileen Jo "Bill" Chapman, Tissie Ca hnston, rter Buckles, Mrs. Crosbe y, Joe Berta Weaver, Martie Tindall, Mrs. Bailey . Approx. 1943
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Mrs. H.C. Stanford (top rig librarian of the Hart Mem ht), was first orial Library
Barrel Racer competing in Silver Spurs Rodeo
1955 Boat-A-Cade
n Naomi Winbush- Became first woma y and African American appointed to Cit Commission for Kissimmee
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with Billy Minnie Moore Wilson r of the Bowlegs and MarthTraibTiege Seminole
Theresa Helm s- Taught thirty five consecuti ve years in Osc eola County schoo ls
Martha Jane, "Bandanna Mammy" who cooked the Treaty dinner for General Worth in 1842
nts in 1966
, Sue Cleme Polly Thacker, Diane Pearson
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Brownie Wise- Pioneer American saleswoman. Largely responsible for the success of Tupperware Home Parties, Inc. Wise became the first woman to appear on the cover of Business Week
Bertha Stallworth- Helped raise funds to replace the St. Luke Baptist Church by selling sweet potato pies for $2 each
Sis Ivey- During a sorority event for the Woman’s Club
Photos provided by
Louise G. Hettinger- First woman member of Osceola Board of Public Instruction Theresa BudingerStanding in the exhibit room
www.floridamemory.com Teri Tarcai Stonebraker
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COMMUNITY
AROUND OSCEOLA
SEE WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR BACKYARD
OSCEOLA READS
INITIATIVE SURPASSES ITS YEAR ONE GOAL Since the launch of the Osceola Reads program in February 2016, the literacy app, Footsteps2Brilliance, has registered 3,863 community users in Osceola County, surpassing the goal of 3,750 expected users in the first year of the five-year initiative. Of the estimated 15,000 eligible families, over 25% have currently registered for the reading readiness app, which provides Osceola County children a head start prior to beginning their first day of school. The program, best suited for second graders and below, aids in the acceleration of
vocabulary skills, comprehension, creativity, and improves test-taking skills through engaging games and learning exercises. The launch of this five-year reading initiative last year aimed to increase the literacy rate throughout the community, and is already proving successful. Last year, it was estimated that only 13% of Osceola kindergarteners were prepared for school via the kindergarten assessment. This year, the data shows a significant increase to 33% due to the efforts of many district and community initiatives. Use of the free reading
tool, Footsteps2Brilliance, continues to aim to decrease the amount of time teachers spend catching students up and teaching them to read. Through digital technology, this mobile app links home and school. From the start, we garnered partnerships with key organizations in the community, including the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County, an organization crucial to reaching our youngest learners before they enter kindergarten. Their ongoing efforts to reach families with young children within Osceola’s private child care
system, as well as the efforts of our other partners, made achieving our first-year goals possible. With the use of the app, sponsors of the Osceola Reads program (the School District and Education Foundation of Osceola County, cities of Kissimmee and St. Cloud, and the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners) are confident that Osceola County’s youngest learners will be prepared for school and achieve a higher level of learning in phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, and writing.
To register, parents may visit www.OsceolaReads.com and complete the registration process. For the latest information, follow the initiative on social media at facebook.com/OsceolaReads, @OsceolaReads on Twitter, and @OsceolaReads on Instagram.
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