There’s no question, the last two years have been challenging, possibly the most challenging many of us have experienced during our lifetimes. But, a new year is here, and as a community, as a nation, and as a world – we embrace a fresh start with hope for the new year. Positively Osceola asked a number of positive leaders in the community to share their hope and their plans for the new year, and how we can encourage and support each other in 2022. We asked Jeremy Lanier, proud Osceola County resident and Public Information Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County, to share his hope and outlook for 2022.
2021 was a year of many challenges for Osceola County. As our community continued to experience tremendous growth, we worked together to fight a common enemy – COVID-19. Residents listened to the guidance provided by our community’s health professionals and came out to get vaccinated against this virus. The response was so resounding that our county became one of the leaders in the state for the percentage of eligible population vaccinated.
As a lifelong Osceola County resident, I was so proud of my fellow community members. The pride in my neighbors continues as we move into 2022. I have the privilege of living in Historic Downtown Kissimmee, a microcosm of our broader community. As our local small businesses continue to grow and visitors from around the world visit to enjoy our area’s amenities, we are again faced with challenges. But every day I see our residents coming together – business owners helping business owners and neighbors helping neighbors – and it reminds me of how lucky we are.
Our community has survived hurricanes, challenging economic times and now we face a foe like no other. But in the end, I know our community will come out stronger and more vibrant than ever before – if we all stick together.
2022 will be the best year yet for Osceola County, of that I am sure.
