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Protect Yourself and Others This Flu Season

(NewsUSA) - Several seasonal celebrations are nearly upon us, but an unwelcome time of year also awaits—flu season.The “flu,” short for influenza, is a viral respiratory illness that often …

5 Meaningful Holiday Gifts That Give Back All Year

(BPT) - The holidays are approaching, which means it's time to start thinking about what you'll give your loved ones. This year, go beyond traditional presents and give your friends and family a …

3 Ways Coaches Can Cultivate Joy and Confidence in Young Athletes

(Feature Impact) Youth sports can change lives - building confidence, resilience and lifelong friendships among the kids and teens who play. In fact, winning games is often the least important part of the experience. Creating an environment where young athletes feel seen and appreciated is its own reward. Consider these tips highlighting three ways coaches can help their players feel like they belong.

A Lesson in Kindness, Inclusion and How Kids Eat Differently

(Feature Impact) The school year brings new classmates, routines and opportunities for children to learn about people whose experiences may be different from their own.

AAA: Two-thirds of Florida adults have seen children ride e-bikes or e-scooters without helmets

A survey from AAA found that 66% of Florida adults have seen children riding e-bikes or e-scooters without helmets, while 83% support helmet requirements. AAA urges riders to wear properly fitted helmets certified for their devices' speed and capabilities.

Apopka pulls away from Horizon for 28-7 victory

Apopka scored four touchdowns across the second and third quarters to defeat Horizon 28-7 Friday night. Freshman quarterback Kai Goodling ran for one touchdown and threw for two more as the Blue Darters combined an explosive offense with multiple defensive takeaways.

Uri Poliavich, co-founder of the Yael Foundation

Strategic Educational Philanthropy of the Yael Foundation and the Role of Uri Poliavich

The mission and scale of the Yael Foundation, strategic support for schools, infrastructure investments and educational initiatives of Uri Poliavich

Apopka Night Out brings first responders and families together on Fifth Street

Apopka families gathered on Fifth Street for an evening of activities and interaction with local first responders. The Apopka Police and Fire departments presented the event in partnership with Market on 5th.

A child’s ZIP code can shape the risk of being shot in Florida

More than 4,000 Florida children were hospitalized with firearm injuries from 2018 through 2024, with a small number of ZIP codes accounting for a disproportionate share of the cases. Orange County’s 32805 ZIP code recorded the state’s highest rate.

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Federal SNAP cuts put free school meals at risk across Florida

Federal SNAP reductions could affect Florida classrooms by weakening the formulas that fund free school breakfast and lunch programs. Most Orange County Public Schools students remain covered this year, but declining enrollment in assistance programs could reduce future federal reimbursements.

OCPS VPK programs outperform the state in the latest ratings

Ninety-six percent of Orange County Public Schools’ 91 Voluntary Prekindergarten sites were rated above expectations or excellent in the state’s latest accountability results. That exceeded the 88% achieved by public-school VPK programs statewide and in Florida’s other large urban districts.

Dr. Phillips Center’s free holiday festival returns in November

The free Frontyard Holiday Festival will transform Dr. Phillips Center’s outdoor spaces into a holiday destination from November 27 through December 31. Visitors can enjoy nightly snowfall, firepits, movies, live performances, seasonal refreshments, interactive attractions, and the return of North America’s only transportable carillon.

Orange County program teaches children lifesaving fire safety skills

Orange County Fire Rescue and Children’s Safety Village use realistic simulations to teach children how to prevent injuries and respond during emergencies. Lessons in the Fire Safety House help participants practice escaping smoke, checking doors, and following a safe evacuation plan.

Beyond School Supplies: UF/IFAS expert shares healthy, affordable meal plans you can prepare in minutes

Back-to-school preparation extends beyond purchasing notebooks, backpacks and other classroom essentials. A UF/IFAS expert offers practical ways families can prepare healthy, affordable meals in minutes.

Orange County awards $15,000 grant to youth wheelchair basketball program

Orange County has awarded Central Florida Dreamplex a $15,000 Youth Sports Enhancement Grant. The funding will help expand its Orlando Magic Dreamers wheelchair basketball program for athletes ages 5 to 18.

AAA urges drivers to slow down as students return to school

AAA is asking motorists to slow down, avoid distractions, and remain alert as students return to school and traffic increases around campuses and residential neighborhoods. The organization is also urging families to review safety practices for walking, riding the bus, and using e-bikes and e-scooters.

Cornerstone Connections receives $100,000 Truist Foundation grant to expand employment program

Cornerstone Connections has received a $100,000 grant from the Truist Foundation to expand its Connecting H.O.P.E. employment program for non-custodial parents. The funding will enhance career coaching, case management, and wraparound services designed to help participants secure long-term employment and better support their children.

Why does some rain fall harder than other rain?

A downpour or a drizzle: What causes the difference?

Some rainstorms drench you in a second, while others drop rain in a nice peaceful drizzle. A meteorologist explains how rainstorms can be so different.

Inside Disasterville: The Army National Guard brings hometown disaster relief missions to high school gyms this fall

(BPT) - Key takeaways: Disasterville, a mixed-reality experience, shows students how Army National Guard Soldiers respond to natural disasters in their home states.Students spend time inside three of …

Online college for working adults: What to look for

(BPT) - Sponsored by University of PhoenixKey takeaways:Key factors to consider when comparing online colleges include: recognized institutional accreditation, schedule flexibility, transparent …

Different styles, same goal — creating a strong foundation for your family

(BPT) - Parenting today isn't about following a single, rigid rulebook — it's about adaptability. As families celebrate National Family Day this fall, modern parents are moving away from the …

“Sharing is caring” and other lessons children learn in pre-K that lead to kindergarten success

(NewsUSA) - Many parents think kindergarten readiness starts with learning letters, numbers and how to write a name. Those skills matter, but educators know that the social-emotional and executive …

Toys for Tots’ Operation Turn the Page Unlocks Futures Through Books

(NewsUSA) - Across the Nation, millions of children are preparing to head back to school—filled with excitement, opportunity, and promise. But for far too many children, the year begins with a …

Growing more than school readiness

(NewsUSA) - The back-to-school season isn't just for school-age children. For many families with preschoolers, late summer is a time to evaluate early learning programs and consider which experiences …

Be a Summer Santa: Support Toys for Tots’ Year-Round Mission

(NewsUSA) - The magic of Christmas doesn’t wait until December—and neither does Marine Toys for Tots. Nationally recognized as America’s flagship children’s Christmastime charity, Toys for …

Reel Moments Make Real Impact: Marine Toys for Tots Encourages Outdoor Play

(NewsUSA) - June marks the start of summer—a season defined by adventure, exploration, and the simple joys of childhood. June also highlights National Fishing Week, celebrated June 6-14, making it …

Pediatric oncology nurse answers some of the most pressing questions about high-risk neuroblastoma

(BPT) - September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of pediatric cancers and recognize the children and families affected by these diseases.According to Children's Cancer …

How to manage the rising costs of being a pet parent

Current reports on managing rising costs as a pet parent, noting expenses for caring for pets range widely, with recommendations for emergency funds and insurance.

Uncover your kibble: 5 things to look for in your dog’s food

K9 Natural reports five key factors to consider when choosing dog food: protein quality, digestibility, ingredients, whole-body health, and avoiding unnecessary fillers.

What ingredients to look for in fresh dog food

Ollie reports that fresh dog food prioritizes real, recognizable ingredients like human-grade meats, vegetables, and healthy fats, ensuring quality and transparency.

How long does fresh dog food last in the fridge?

Ollie reports that fresh dog food lasts in the fridge for four days (unopened and opened), while leftovers should be consumed within 24 hours.

Barkitecture: 12 dog-friendly landscaping ideas for your backyard

Lawn Love reports on "Barkitecture," a trend for dog-friendly backyards, featuring designs that cater to dogs' natural behaviors while preserving landscaping.