Welcome to February, the shortest month of the year but one of great celebrations such as the American Heart Month and Black History Month. Knowing, commemorating and celebrating the many contributions our ancestors built, makes history exceptionally rich.

Progress is seen in a number of ventures around Poinciana.  A new signal has been installed at the northern most drive-way on Pleasant Hill Road.  New sidewalks are planned north of the school on the west side to provide a continuous path.  The County Commission approved 07/08 fiscal year budget appropriating funds for sidewalks within the county.

Osceola and Polk residents in the Poinciana area need convenient and timely access to emergency services and healthcare; that is a reality.  Another reality we are facing is the tough budgetary restraints statewide.

As in other areas of the county, crime, juvenile delinquency and violence have threatened the safety and security of our neighborhood.  We stand strong, in partnership with Avatar, YMCA, APV and the Sheriff’s Office for Polk and Osceola counties, in joining efforts for providing programs and alternatives that will make a positive difference.  I believe in developing strong communities, and in doing so, we must empower our youth by providing opportunities to enhance their recreational and social experiences in a supportive environment.  We are genuinely concerned and are working together in our pledge to a safer community.

On August 7, neighborhoods across Osceola County are encouraged to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide to celebrate the 24th Annual National Night Out (NNO), a crime and drug prevention event. The Sheriff's Office is asking residents to turn on an outside ight from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. to support the campaign.

Dear Poinciana Citizens,

Summer days have flown by and we are moving forward to a new school year! School supplies, new teachers, new friends, and maybe even a new school. Schools in Osceola County are back in session on Monday, August 20th. Researches overwhelmingly demonstrate that parent involvement in children's learning is positively related to achievement. Let us encourage our children to strive for excellence and promote them toward their highest potential.

Osceola County Sheriff's detectives arrested and charged 19 year old Enmanuel Mendez (DOB 5/13/88) from Poinciana with murder in the death of Hakeem Ahmed Rasheed. A warrant was issued for Mendez on July 21 and detectives located him at a residence on Brixham Court at approximately 10:00 p.m.  The investigation is on-going with additional charges pending.

Dear Poinciana Citizens: Hot weather, swimming, the smell of hot dogs on the grill, summer camps and family time best depict the summer season! As we struggle with managing so many priorities, it is important to remember there is nothing more enjoyable than spending quality time with the ones you love. "Quality time" is time spent doing an important activity together, sharing thoughts and feelings, or having the opportunity to have a meaningful conversation with your loved ones.

Did you know only 2 years ago, identity theft was the second fastest growing crime in the United States? Over the last year, we've seen the number of identity theft cases increase. Here's some basic information you should know to keep you safe.

We are in the middle month of the summer season and summer break and I hope you have had the opportunity to spend time with your families!  As a follow-up to my previous article, Hurricane season officially began June 1 and ends November 31. This is a good time to assess your preparation supplies and have a plan in place, if you have not done so already. Awareness and preparation are the best tools!