BACKto SCHOOL
THE PUBLICATION FOR THE RESIDENTS OF
Photo: Abbey Evans Photography
Letter From the Publisher
Hello, Harmony!
Welcome to the August 2025 edition of Harmony Life Magazine! I’m Brady Evans, your new magazine guy — husband, dad, neighbor, and now proud owner of this little slice of community storytelling.
Big changes are coming to Harmony Life Magazine, and I’m not just talking about switching fonts and fancy headers. We’re planning new features, fresh stories, and even a few surprises (no spoilers, but one may involve a pool…).
Speaking of which — a huge welcome to one of our newest advertisers, Reel in the Rays Pools and Spas! They’re currently building a pool right here in Harmony, and we’ll be following the progress like it’s the next big Netflix series. If you’ve been dreaming of turning your backyard into a tropical getaway, these are your people!
And of course, a huge thank you to our amazing continuing advertisers who help make this magazine possible every month: Corcoran Connect, Healthcare solutions, Hogan Roofing, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, Wild Florida, Furniture One of Saint Cloud, All Flooring USA & Cabinets, Kisselback Ford, Harmony Community Church, and Champion Property Maintenance.
Lastly, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Bill Bokunic for entrusting me with Harmony Life Magazine. Bill left the magazine in great shape. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to build on the work he’s done and continue growing the magazine to serve our neighbors.
Remember this magazine is by residents, for residents. Got a story idea? A neighbor worth highlighting? Email me at brayevan1@gmail.com. Let’s make this magazine reflect the awesome community we live in.
See you in September!
Brady Evans, Publisher
Contact Info for Residents
CDD HarmonyCDD.org, 407-566-1935 Dan, Jo, Lucas, Brittany or Julie @HarmonyCDD.org
SHERIFF, NON-EMERGENCY 407-348-2222
HROA Association Solutions, 811 Mabette St., Kissimmee 407-847-2280, www.MyHOASolution.com
CONDOS HOA Association Solutions, 407-847-2280
TOWNHOMES HOA Association Solutions, 811 Mabette St., Kissimmee, 407-847-2280, www.MyHOASolution.com
AUGUST 2025
A Publication of Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC
Publisher
Brady Evans brayevan1@gmail.com
Design & Layout
Renée Blair
Blair Creative Group, Inc.
Photography
Abbey Evans Photography
Contributors
Jeanine Corcoran Corcoran Connect
Brady Evans
Kerul Kassel PHD First Nature Foundation
The opinions expressed in the Harmony Life Magazine articles are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the opinions of Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC, Harmony Life Magazine, or the Publisher.
Harmony Life Magazine, Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC and the Publisher can, in no way whatsoever, be held responsible for the content of such views, nor can it be held liable for any direct or indirect damage that may arise from such views.
All rights reserved. No part of any Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC published work may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher.
Harmony Residents Forum
SPECTRUM CABLE / INTERNET 877-892-3279
LINK CABLE / INTERNET 866-314-4148
OUC ELECTRIC 407-957-7373
ADVANCED DISPOSAL – OSCEOLA 407-605-3892 3501 Pug Mill Rd., Kissimmee, FL 34741 OsceolaFL@advanceddisposal.com
OSCEOLA COUNTY Osceola.org - “Citizen Action Center”
COUNTY COMMISSIONER
RICKY BOOTH ricky.booth@osceola.org
Protecting & Serving with Purpose
BY BRADY EVANS
Harmony is proud to welcome Sheriff Christopher A. Blackmon, our new sheriff who brings a wealth of experience, a strong sense of duty, and deep commitment to community engagement. As he steps into this role, we had the opportunity to sit down and ask him a few questions to help our residents get to know the person behind the badge.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to a career in law enforcement?
Growing up in Pensacola, Florida, I was fortunate to have a family that maintained a close friendship with a state trooper. We frequently played baseball with his sons and engaged in fishing and hunting activities together. My stepfather had the privilege of riding along with this trooper several times and would share his experiences from those rides, igniting my initial interest in law enforcement. Growing up, watching police shows on TV was another catalyst that sparked my interest in law enforcement.
As I grew older, several of my childhood friends chose to become police officers. After speaking with them, I submitted my application to join the Florida Highway Patrol, and the rest is history.
What roles have you served in over the years with law enforcement?
I commenced my career with the Florida Highway Patrol in 1990. In 1992, I joined the DUI Enforcement squad, where I served until November 1996, when I transferred to Lake County as a road patrol trooper.
From 2001 until May 2002, I was assigned to the Drug Interdiction Unit. In May 2002, I was promoted to Sergeant in Troop D in Orlando, overseeing Orange and Osceola County troopers.
Sherrif Christopher A. Blackmon
In May 2013, I received another promotion to Lieutenant in Troop D, where I managed 21 troopers and three sergeants in the same counties.
In January 2016, I was promoted to District Commander/Captain, managing 105 troopers and supervisors across Orange and Osceola counties.
In December 2017, I was promoted to Major/Troop Commander in Troop H in Tallahassee, and in March 2022, I transferred back to Troop D in Orlando to take command of the largest troop in the state.
Most recently, in November 2023, I was promoted to Regional Chief, overseeing more than 800 personnel, including the Florida Highway Patrol Auxiliary and the Florida Highway Patrol Reserve program.
While serving as the Central Region Chief, I was appointed Statewide Immigration Incident Commander in February 2025.
Additionally, I was assigned to the University of Central Florida Knights football team from 2002 until 2017. I also worked part-time for Major League Baseball as a Resident Security Agent from late 2007 until mid-2015.
I have provided security protection to Lieutenant Governor Frank Brogan, Toni Jennings, and Jeff Kottkamp.
What goals have you set for your first year in office?
Osceola County has a growing population, a significant tourism industry (due to its proximity to major attractions like Disney World), and a diverse demographic, including a mix of urban and rural areas. The Sheriff's Office also plays a key role in ensuring the safety of both residents and tourists. My hyperfocus will be on children and senior citizens. Both groups are vulnerable to exploitation by criminals.
1. Assess the Sheriff's Office
Operations & Community Needs
Objective: Conduct a comprehensive
review of the OCSO's operations, staffing, and community safety concerns.
Action Steps:
• Review OCSO's current crime statistics, including property crime, drug-related offenses, and violent crime trends.
• Meet with key stakeholders in the community, including city officials from Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Osceola County Commissioners, and other leaders in the county.
• Engage in meetings with officers, community leaders, and residents to identify local concerns and expectations of law enforcement.
2. Strengthen Community Policing and Engagement
Objective: Build stronger relationships with residents and tourists through active community engagement and outreach.
Action Steps:
• Expand and enhance community policing initiatives, particularly in areas with high tourism or transient populations.
• Launch or rebrand a community outreach program that includes educational events, neighborhood watch partnerships, and collaborative crime prevention initiatives.
• Work with local businesses, particularly those in tourist-heavy areas (like around Walt Disney World and other attractions), to establish safety protocols and ensure crime prevention in hightraffic zones.
• Start a "Sheriff's Office in the Community" initiative, where deputies regularly visit businesses, churches, community centers, and HOAs for casual conversations with residents.
3. Improve Internal Communications and Officer
Morale
Objective: Foster a culture of openness, collaboration, and moralebuilding within the Sheriff's Office. This is already happening, as morale is at an all-time high since I took command of the Sheriff's Office.
Action Steps:
• Establish regular "Sheriff's Briefings" for all deputies, staff, and leadership to discuss crime trends, department goals, and community feedback. Organize quarterly wellness events and stress-relief activities for deputies to combat burnout, especially with high-call volume and the emotional strain of law enforcement. Set up peer support systems and ensure resources are available for those dealing with traumatic events, which are common in law enforcement. (Already underway)
4. Enhance Officer Training and Professional Development
Objective: Ensure OCSO officers have the latest skills, techniques, and tools to address evolving law enforcement challenges.
Action Steps:
• Review and expand training programs in de-escalation, mental health crisis intervention, and cultural competency, given the diverse population and tourists from around the world.
• Prioritize training on traffic enforcement, DUI detection, and safety measures, especially around high-traffic tourist areas and significant events. Increase training in the use of non-lethal options (e.g., tasers, bean bag rounds) and emphasize deescalation tactics.
5. Address Crime Trends and Public Safety in Tourist Areas
Objective: Develop proactive strategies for crime prevention, specifically addressing tourism-related crime and the growing population.
Action Steps:
• Work with other local agencies to understand tourism-driven crime issues (e.g., theft, scams, sex trafficking, human trafficking, etc.).
• Introduce crime prevention strategies around high-density tourist areas, including increased patrols, surveillance, and tourism outreach programs.
• Create a special "Tourist Safety Task Force" that collaborates with local businesses and hotels to address traffic violations, theft, and fraud.
• Analyze crime data related to tourist-heavy areas and adjust staffing levels and patrol routes to prevent crime before it happens.
6. Leverage Technology and Data for Smarter Policing
Objective: Integrate advanced technology and data analytics to improve the efficiency of the Sheriff's Office.
Action Steps:
• Expand the use of Predictive Policing tools to address crime hot spots in residential and tourist areas proactively. Rely on our Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) for data-driven results.
7. Focus on Officer Health, Well-being, and Retention
Objective: Ensure officers' mental, physical, and emotional well-being is prioritized to improve morale and retention.
Action Steps:
• Introduce or expand mental health support programs, particularly for those working in high-stress areas.
• Work with local healthcare providers to offer on-site wellness checks or counseling services for officers dealing with trauma, including post-critical incident debriefings.
• Develop a mentorship program that pairs veteran deputies with newer recruits to help with career development and mental health support.
8. Promote Transparency and Accountability
Objective: Foster transparency within OCSO to build trust with the community and ensure high standards of conduct.
Action Steps:
• Regularly release crime data, department performance statistics, and initiatives to the public through social media, town hall meetings, and newsletters.
• Ensure the department has a clear and accessible process for handling civilian complaints and misconduct investigations.
9. Strengthen Regional Partnerships
Objective: Foster strong collaborations with other law enforcement agencies in Central Florida to address regional threats. Action Steps:
• Create joint task forces for issues like human trafficking (a significant issue in the tourism industry), narcotics enforcement, and major crimes.
• Strengthen partnerships with FDLE, FHP, FBI, DEA, and ICE for state and federal support on critical investigations and enforcement.
10. Focus on Recruitment and Retention of a Diverse Workforce Objective: Ensure OCSO is diverse, equitable, and reflective of the community it serves, especially in a rapidly changing demographic. Action Steps:
• Partner with local colleges, universities, and vocational programs to recruit candidates who understand the community's unique needs.
• By focusing on these objectives, the Osceola County Sheriff's Office can strengthen its community relationships, enhance operational efficiency, and build a more transparent, responsive, and effective law enforcement agency that adapts to the area's unique challenges.
How can residents be more involved in keeping our neighborhood safe? We need to focus on awareness, communication, and community action to get residents more involved in keeping our neighborhood safe. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Encourage residents to monitor and report suspicious activities.
2. Ensuring well-lit streets enhances safety and discourages crime.
3. Share Home Safety Tips: Distributing information on securing homes can help residents
protect their property.
4. Enhance Communication Among Neighbors: Start a text group or create a social media page to facilitate quick communication and updates.
5. Partner with the Osceola County Sheriff's Office for Resources and Support: Collaborate with the Osceola County Sheriff's Office to provide residents with valuable safety tips and resources. By implementing these strategies, residents can play a more active role in maintaining safety within the community.
Have you had a chance to visit Harmony? What was your impression?
Yes—Harmony appears to be a tranquil community. I need to revisit Harmony to gather more information about this beautiful part of Osceola County. Harmony is a community where pride is prevalent.
What hobbies do you enjoy doing outside of your role as sheriff?
I often vacation with my wife, and we enjoy taking cruises. We have visited almost every cruise port that Royal Caribbean sails to. I'm an avid baseball fan, and my favorite team is the Los Angeles Dodgers, a passion I've had since the late 1970s. My love for the Dodgers began when I started following the career of Hall of Fame pitcher Don Sutton, who is from my hometown of Pensacola, Florida. Since 2002, I have provided security and traveled with the UCF Football team. In addition to this, we frequently tour our National Parks and attend Dodgers games throughout the country. One of my main hobbies is listening to Christian music. I'm a big fan of Elevation Worship, Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, and Brandon Lake. n
This story is brought to you by:
ABBEY EVANS
PHOTOGRAPHY
WEDDINGS | EVENTS | FAMILIES | NEWBORNS | SENIORS www.abbeyevansphoto.com
RESIDENT RECIPES
ALLISON WALDBIESER
ALLISONWALDBIESER
Baking has always been a special part of my life. My grandmother and I spent countless hours in the kitchen together, and it's where my love for baking truly began. Now, I’m passing that same joy down to my three daughters
It’s ’ simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing! We hope you love it too!
Bakinghasalwaysbeenaspecial partofmylife.Mygrandmother andIspentcountlesshoursinthe kitchentogether,andit'swhere myloveforbakingtrulybegan. Now,I’mpassingthatsamejoy downtomythreedaughters. It’ssimple,delicious,andperfect forsharing!Wehopeyouloveit too!
CINNAMONCHIP SCONES
CINNAMON CHIP
Yields12scones
Yields 12 scones
Ingredients:
•31/4cups all-purposeflour
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
•1/3cupsugar
• 1/3 cup sugar
•21/2tspbaking powder
• 2 1/2 / tsp baking d
•1/2tspbakingsoda
•1/2tspsalt
•3/4cupcoldbutter,cubed •1cupbuttermilk
•1(10oz)packagecinnamon chips(oryourfavoritemix-in)
Topping:
•2tbspmeltedbutter
•2tbspsugar
Instructions:
•Preheatovento425°F.Ina largebowl,whisktogetherthe flour,sugar,bakingpowder, bakingsoda,andsalt.
•Cutinthecoldcubedbutteru ntilthemixture resembles coarsecrumbs.(Iloveusingmystandmixerwiththepaddle attachmentforthisstep!)
•Stirinthebuttermilkuntiljustcombined,thengentlyfold inthecinnamonchips.
•Turnthedoughontoalightlyflouredsurfaceandknead about12times,justuntilthedoughisnolongersticky.
•Dividedoughinhalfandpateachhalfintoa6–7-inch circle.
•Sliceeachcircleinto8wedges.Brushthetopswithmelted butterandsprinklewithsugar.
•Placethewedgesslightlyapartonanungreased bakingsheet.
•Bakefor10–13minutes,oruntilthesconesarelightly golden. Servewarmandenjoy!
Harmony High School Football 2025 SEASON PREVIEW
BY BRADY EVANS
Excitement is in the air at Harmony High School as the football team kicks off its 2025 season. We sat down with Head Coach Don Simon after the team's first fall practice, and it’s clear that this year’s squad is ready to bring energy, discipline, and determination to the field.
“Compete Every Game” Coach Simon’s message for the upcoming season is clear: compete.
“We’re in a tough district, but if our kids come ready to play and compete, we’ve got a chance to win,” he said. “I’m really excited about the kids we have on the roster and optimistic about our season.”
Leadership on the Rise
Senior leadership will be key to the Longhorn’s success. Coach Simon highlighted defensive lineman Mekhi Ealy as a standout.
“He’s a four-year starter, threetime All-OVC, and he’s really stepping into a leadership role.”
Another name to know is Billy Cory, who has impressed the coaching staff with his growth over the summer. “I was surprised how he has developed as a leader over camp,” Simon added.
Players to Watch
On offense, running backs Damarian Moore and Nicholas Bertolani are expected to be key contributors, with quarter-
back Landon Hayes leading the charge.
Defensively, keep your eyes on linebacker Colton Sklarek, and defensive linemen Gerald Pifer and Brody Malukiewicz, who are all expected to play major roles.
A New Mindset
“This is going to be a focused team, a very disciplined team,” said Coach Simon. “There’s a different attitude and mindset with our kids this year.”
Community Support Matters
Coach Simon emphasized how important community involvement is for the team’s success.
“I want people to come out and watch us, be there for us each week,” he said. “Our Junior Varsity team plays Wednesday nights and Varsity on Friday nights. Come on out.”
With a strong roster, committed leadership, and a clear mission, the Harmony Longhorns are gearing up for a competitive and exciting season. Don’t miss your chance to support them under the Friday night lights. n
This story is brought to you by Kim Kirsch - kkirsch@myhst.com
JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
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VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
5
12
19
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Meet the Leaders Shaping Our Schools
s a community, we are incredibly fortunate to have dedicated and passionate administrators guiding our students at Harmony’s elementary, middle school, and high schools. These leaders play a vital role not only in managing day-to-day operations but also in creating a positive, nurturing environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive. Their hard work has truly paid off — all three Harmony schools earned an “A” rating this year, a reflection of their commitment to excellence. In this special feature, we’re excited to introduce you to the individuals behind the scenes who are committed to making our school the best they can be. Meet your Harmony administrators!
Thomas Dunham Harmony Middle School
Harmony Middle School recently
success and provide our students your eyes?
Despite being one of the largest middle schools in the county, Harmony maintains a community feel. Its families are welcoming, and its staff are deeply committed to serving students. Over the past year, I watched our students and staff excel across many areas—from athletics (multiple district championships), to academics (earning an A rating), and extracurriculars (FFA Premier Chapter). It’s hard to find an area where Harmony Middle doesn’t stand out.
small-group instruction opportunities for students.
Is there anything you'd like to say directly to the students, staff, or families reading this?
Are there any new programs, initiatives, or improvements we can look forward to this year?
As our community grows, we’re welcoming a host of new teachers this year. We’re excited about the experience and energy they bring. Plus, we’re introducing a Wednesday intervention model in our core classes to provide increased
I joined Harmony in January of last school year and immediately appreciated the culture and positivity here. I’m grateful to our families for supporting the school through their time and resources—and to our staff and students for making Harmony special. We’re excited to start the new school year and look forward to a great year ahead.
Jennifer
Ramsey Harmony High School
Tell us about your background and experiences. How many years have you been in education and what made you want to become a principal?
This school year will be my 20th year in education. Prior to entering administration, I spent most of my time within the Exceptional Student Education Department at the high school level, I also taught Research at the middle school level, and I spent five years as a Graduation Coach. I was an Assistant Principal for eight years, with four of them being a Liberty High School and three at Harmony High School prior to becoming Principal. I feel that throughout my journey in my educational career I have been blessed to be over various areas and have been given a plethora of opportunities to learn and grow as both an educator and leader.
As each school year comes to a close, I like to take time to focus on what I have accomplished, but I also like to be honest with myself about what my goals are for the next year and the areas in which I can grow and improve. It is this refection process, in both my professional and personal life, that was the catalyst in submitting my application to be a principal. I was ready for a new challenge, and my desire was to be the right principal for the right school, and I am grateful the decision was made to place me at Harmony High School.
What are your top goals for the school this year?
We want to ensure that our school and students continue to thrive academically. It is crucial that we have high expectations for all our students and that we provide them with the supports and guidance to exceed the goals that we have set for the school year. In addition, we want to continue to grow the
serve as the new principal of Harmony High School, a place where excellence in academics, character, and community is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to providing the highest quality education and fostering a positive environment for all students.
To our students, we are committed to providing you with a safe and supportive environment that gives each of you
community-based culture that is rooted in the traditions that are Harmony High School.
What makes your school special in your eyes?
We have amazing students, a great faculty and staff and unwavering support from our families and community, all these incredible stakeholders are what makes Harmony High School uniquely special. We would not be successful if everyone was not working together for the greater good of our school.
Are there any new programs, initiatives, or improvements we can look forward to this year?
We want to increase school spirit and continue to create a culture that promotes pride in Harmony High School. Whether it is through academics, athletics, or extra-curricular activities we want every student to feel that they have a purpose on this campus and that they matter and contribute to Harmony High School.
Is there anything you'd like to say directly to the students, staff, or families reading this?
It is my great honor and privilege to
the opportunity to thrive. The entire faculty and staff are dedicated to preparing each of you for not only academic success, but also for lifelong learning and responsible citizenship.
To our parents and community, we believe in a partnership between school, home, and the community. Your involvement is crucial to the success of our students, and we encourage open communication between all stakeholders and look forward to collaborating with you throughout the school year.
To our staff, your commitment and dedication to our students is unparalleled. You are the driving force behind the success of Harmony High School, and I am truly grateful for all that you do.
At Harmony High School we will continue to focus on innovation, continuous improvement, and building strong relationships. Our goal is to help every student reach their full potential and leave Harmony High School with the confidence, knowledge, and skills needed to succeed in whatever path they choose. n
Installs Include Basic Furniture Moving and Haul-Away of Old Carpet
FLOORING : From hardwood to laminate, and carpet to tile, we provide a wide range of flooring options tailored to fit any
and budget.
KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS: We transform kitchens and bathrooms into beautiful, stylish spaces that enhance both form and function to meet the unique needs of each homeowner.
DIVING DEEP:
How Reel in the Rays Pool & Spa Is Revolutionizing Pool Design in Central Florida
Located in Saint Cloud, Florida, and proudly owner-operated, Reel in the Rays Pool & Spa is reshaping the pool construction landscape in Central Florida. Frustrated by contractors who vanish halfway, miss deadlines, and leave homeowners in the dark, owner and founder Robert Jordan started Reel in the Rays with a clear mission: quality, reliability, and honesty—every time. With over 20 years of design and construction experience, this tight-knit crew is committed to building elegant, functional pools—efficiently and with unwavering dedication.
Full-Service Offerings
Reel in the Rays brings your vision to life from start to finish:
• Free design consultations to explore your ideas and understand your lifestyle.
• Cutting-edge pool design software, including immersive 3D renderings.
• Inground gunite pool and spa construction—timeless, durable, customizable.
• A la carte features: waterfalls, sun decks, bubblers, tanning ledges, and more.
What Clients Can Expect
Take it from local Harmony residents Ryan and Nikki Grathwol, who hired Reel in the Rays Pools to design and build their new pool:
Robert, the owner of the company, told me directly: “As the business owner, I’m the one who designs your pool, I will be onsite, and I’ll personally make sure the process is smooth and perfect.” That level of involvement gave me so much
confidence that the job would be done right, without any runaround or guesswork.
Ryan went on to say:
“What really sealed it was the local connection. Robert and his wife Tiffany are St. Cloud residents who are deeply involved in the community. In fact, Tiffany was our daughter’s cheer coach—and knowing we were working with a family who shares our values made a big difference. Robert’s communication has been phenomenal from day one.”
“I can’t recommend them enough. Robert and Tiffany make you feel like more than just customers—they make you feel like friends. A pool is a big investment for any family, and I truly feel like we’re in good hands with people who care.” n
Ready to take the plunge? Call today to set up your free design consultation! 407-595-8165
