Osceola High forensics science teacher Stacy Morris has received a $5,000 STEM from Toshiba. (Photo/School District of Osceola County)
HCA Osceola Hospital now a Level II Trauma Center
HCA Florida Osceola Hospital announced that its trauma center has been verified as a Level II Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons (ACS), providing independent national validation of the hospital’s capabilities to care for seriously injured patients.
“This verification is ultimately about the patients and families who depend on us during some of the most critical moments of their lives,” said HCA Florida Osceola Hospital CEO David Shimp. “Earning verification from the American College of Surgeons reflects years of investment, preparation and an extraordinary commitment from our physicians, nurses and colleagues. Most importantly, it means our community has access close to home to a trauma program that has been independently evaluated against rigorous national standards.”
Dr. Dustin Huynh, trauma medical director at HCA Florida Osceola Hospital, said the verification reflects not one service or department, but an entire system built around the trauma patient.
“Trauma care begins before a patient ever reaches the operating room and continues throughout hospitalization and recovery,” Dr. Huynh said. “ACS verification examines that entire system. This recognition validates the work our multidisciplinary team does every day while challenging us to continually measure, evaluate and improve the care we provide.”
Osceola High earns Toshiba STEM grant
Osceola High School and forensic science teacher Stacy Nichols have received a $5,000 STEM grant from the Toshiba America Foundation (TAF) to support the schools’ Forensic Science 2 program. Toshiba assisted OHS in launching the popular science program three years ago with a similar grant.
With this new grant, students will gain hands-on experience using professional tools such as specialized laboratory equipment and realistic crime scene simulations focused on odor analysis and insect activity, helping them build the skills, confidence, and emotional preparedness needed for future careers in crime scene investigation.
Top right photo: Osceola High Forensic Science teacher Stacy Nichols has received a $5,000 STEM grant from Toshiba.
Duke awards Education Foundation $20,000 grant
The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded the Education Foundation Osceola County a $20,000 grant to support its Career Pipelines program, helping students explore career opportunities and prepare for future success. The Foundation works to strengthen communities through investments in education and workforce development.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for their generous support,” said Education Foundation Osceola County Executive Director Kerry Avery. “By working hand-in-hand with the School District of Osceola County, we are creating clear pathways from the classroom to careers, giving our students the opportunity to achieve their goals and strengthen our community’s workforce.”
The Career Pipelines program connects students with local employers through career awareness activities, workplace experiences, and hands-on learning that prepares them for their next step into the workforce. The grant will help expand these opportunities and strengthen partnerships with local industries, the Foundation said.
Florida State DAR hits $5,000 goal for Tunnel to Towers donation in honor of 9/11 25th anniversary
The Florida State Society Daughters of the American Revolution (FSSDAR) raised $5,213 for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in honor of the 25th anniversary of 9/11. The fundraiser was held at last week’s FSSDAR Fall Forum at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate.
To commemorate the 343 FDNY firefighters who died on Sept. 11, 2001, Tunnel to Towers has committed to delivering 343 mortgage-free homes in 2026 to injured veterans and first responders, Gold Star families, and families of fallen first responders.
Following the 9/11 attacks, colorful paper cranes appeared across Manhattan, including on a replica of the Statue of Liberty outside a Midtown firehouse. Placed by members of the public, the cranes became symbols of compassion, community, hope, and healing.
Inspired by that tribute, each fundraiser donor received a handmade paper crane to keep or place on the FSSDAR Remembrance Board with a note honoring a loved one, first responder, veteran, or other special person. Project Co-Chair April Douglas, regent of the William P. Duval Chapter in Winter Park, created the board and a signage display. Project Co-Chair and FSSDAR Service to America State Chair Kim Tennison oversaw the project’s administration and creative direction. Joshua Stevens Chapter Regent Claudia Dundas of Saint Cloud, FL handcrafted hundreds of paper cranes. FSSDAR State Regent Kim Zeman selected the project, inspired by her husband’s service as a firefighter before his retirement.
The FSSDAR Welcome Dinner on Friday, Sept. 11, featured a program commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Tennison gave a presentation about Tunnel to Towers’ work serving first responders and veterans.
“I hope this little crane will remind you of something much bigger than tonight. I hope it reminds you of the people who ran toward danger. Of the families who were left behind. Of the veterans and first responders who continue to live with the consequences of their service. And of a country that, for a brief and heartbreaking moment 25 years ago, remembered just how much we have in common. We were united in grief. And tonight, we can be united in gratitude. United in remembrance. And united in service. And I hope this 9/11 anniversary inspires all Florida Daughters to service . . . because service is what we do best.”
At the Florida State Chairman’s Club Breakfast on Sunday, Sept. 13, a motion was made to increase the total contribution to more than $5,000, bringing the final donation to $5,213.
For more about DAR membership, visit Joshua Stevens Chapter, NSDAR Facebook page and leave a message for Joshua Stevens Chapter of St. Cloud Regent Claudia Dundas.
AAA encourages Floridians to plan holiday vacations—now
AAA encourages travelers to begin planning holiday trips now. Rising fuel prices could contribute to higher travel costs, particularly airfares. A new AAA travel survey found that many travelers delay booking because of budget concerns or hopes for lower prices, yet nearly half later pay more than they would have if they booked earlier. Travelers who start planning now typically have more choices and flexibility as they prepare for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s travel.
According to a new AAA travel survey, one-quarter (26%) of Floridians begin planning holiday trips during September and October, while only 10% wait until November or December.
For many travelers, cost is driving those decisions. The survey found that budget concerns (41%) and waiting for lower prices (36%) are the leading reasons travelers delay booking trips. Yet that strategy often backfires. Nearly half (49%) of residents said they delayed booking a trip and later paid more than they would have if they booked earlier. Fifteen percent paid significantly more, while 34% paid somewhat more.
