Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Highlights Hispanic Heritage Through Flavor and Care, Led by Chef Roberto Santiago
Kissimmee Gateway Airport Secures $10 Million FAA Grant for Major Taxiway Rehabilitation
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Highlights Hispanic Heritage Through Flavor and Care, Led by Chef Roberto Santiago
Kissimmee Gateway Airport Secures $10 Million FAA Grant for Major Taxiway Rehabilitation
LIVE with Creative Inspiration
Journey School Founder and CEO
Patty Marquis
April 18th, 2024
LIVE with City of St. Cloud's Communications Director Maryemma Bachelder
June 6th, 2024
LIVE with Jason Wethington from St. Cloud’s Theatre in the Cloud
May 10th, 2024
LIVE with Jennifer Panzella, Director of Education with Osceola Arts
May 2nd, 2024
LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office
April 18th, 2024
Osceola County is on the verge of captivating its residents and visitors alike with a new video series that promises to explore its hidden natural treasures like never before. Titled “Boating with Brandon,” this 10-part series is hosted by District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington.“
“Boating with Brandon” not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Osceola County but also profiles the influential change-makers who are shaping its future. In this episode, viewers will experience the thrilling pace of Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures at Southport, guided by the skilled Captain Chris Bryan. Joining Commissioner Arrington is ClickOrlando’s Trooper Steve Montiero.
Joining Commissioner Brandon Arrington in Episode Three of "Boating With Brandon" is Osceola County Commissioner for District 5, Ricky Booth, who delves into the rich history and natural beauty of the county’s scenic waterways, including Trout Lake, Lake Lizzie, Buck Lake, and East Lake Tohopekaliga. This episode showcases the beautiful biodiversity in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.
Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the finest materials and craftmanship.
Wild Florida is one of Central Florida’s must-see gems. Take a look at their unique Albino Alligators! Schedule your next Animal Encounter at Wild Florida. WildFl.com
LIVE at Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at Mt. Peace Cemetery
LIVE as Commissioner Booth and St. Cloud Team Up For Swimming Safety
LIVE at the St. Cloud Fire Rescue Meet and Greet
LIVE for the Awarding of Pa’Pikar Latin Grill in Kissimmee with the Downtown Beautification & Innovation Award
LIVE at the Ribbon-Cutting for OUC’s New St. Cloud Operations & Maintenance Center
LIVE for the Osceola County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony
LIVE as Commissioner Grieb and Osceola Community Health Services Announce the Start of Senior Smiles Osceola Denture Program in District 4
LIVE for the Operation Ride SMART Press Conference with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office
A big volleyball win for Osceola against a ranked state-power and a first-ever win over St. Cloud by Poinciana highlighted a busy week of action in Osceola County Sports, but all will take a back-seat this week’s action, when the Kowboys will square off against St. Cloud for the 101st time in one of the nation’s longest-running football rivalries.
Here is a look around the county in high school sports: VOLLEYBALL
In the biggest match of the week, Osceola (10-3) took down previously undefeated Deland in four sets on Tuesday night, winning (25-18, 25-21, 20-25, 25-19). Deland came into the match with a 9-0 record and ranked third in the state by MaxPreps.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3MBIM9R
In his first two years at Osceola, head coach
Eric Pinellas has seen his team win two district titles, make a run to a regional final and beat some pretty talented football teams along the way. One item that is missing on his head coaching resume is a signature regular season win against a Top 5 opponent.
Pinellas and his Kowboys (3-1) will get that chance on Thursday night, when they host Jones High School (3-0). Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Markus Paul Stadium. The number four ranked team in Class 4A, the Tigers have won three straight regional championships. There 3610 overall record during that time – against a highly competitive schedule – include wins over Osceola in both 2022 (18-7) and 2023 (28-20).
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4guuGVM
It was the Jordin Southall show on Tuesday night as the Osceola Kowboys rolled to their fifth straight win on the season – taking down county rival and previously undefeated Harmony in straight sets, 25-19, 25-14, 25-11.
Southall came up huge in the first set, recording eight kills in leading the Kowboys to a six-point win. Osceola was ahead comfortably for most of the set, but a 4-0 Harmony mini-run cut the gap to five at 21-16. But Southall came up with back-to-back kills to make it 2316 and Osceola held on for the win.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4gnN4PO
Historically, Poinciana has had little success on the gridiron. In fact, the school has had just two non-long seasons since it opened 33 years ago. But things appear to be changing—and in a hurry. Under first-year head coach Taron Mallard, Poinciana football is rocketing on an upward trajectory as the Eagles are 3-0 for the first time in school history and more importantly few believe that success to be a fluke or related to Poinciana’s Independent Status, which would allow them build a winning record by scheduling weaker opponents.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ZhjBB6
“Boating with Brandon,” the inspirational 10-part video series hosted by District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington, returns with its fifth episode, promising another immersive adventure exploring and featuring Osceola County’s beautiful waterways. This series not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Osceola County but also profiles the influential change-makers who are shaping its future.
In this episode, viewers will experience the thrilling beauty of Cypress Lake in Osceola County, guided by Wild Florida's Co-owner Sam Haught. The journey on Cypress Lake promises breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and insightful discussions about environmental conservation and community engagement.
Joining Commissioner Arrington is Valencia College President Dr. Kathleen Plinske. Together, they discuss the transformative impact of Osceola Prosper, an initiative that has been empowering Osceola County graduates for three years. Osceola Prosper allows graduates to attend Valencia College to earn an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree or complete one of Valencia College's Accelerated Skills Training or Technical Certificate programs.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/BoatingBrandonEp5
Start your engines! The Osceola Council on Aging has announced the return of its annual Jeep Raffle Fundraiser, beginning July 1. All proceeds from this event go directly towards their programs and services, helping the advocacy agency to continue providing vital assistance to those in our community who need it most. By purchasing tickets, you’ll not only have the opportunity to win a beautiful new Jeep but also make a meaningful impact on the lives of your neighbors in need.
Ticket donations start on July 1, 2024, with each ticket priced at $25. There is no limit to the number of tickets you can purchase, and the more tickets you buy, the greater your chances of winning. The raffle is open to legal residents of the United States who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry, excluding executive staff of the Osceola Council on Aging. Tickets can be purchased at designated locations or online through the OCOA official website at osceolagenerations.org.
The raffle drawing will take place on December 31, 2024, at 11 am Eastern Time at 700 Generation Point, Kissimmee, FL 34744. You do not need to be present to win. The winner will be notified immediately by phone and email. If the winner cannot be contacted or fails to claim the prize within 30 days of notification, an alternate winner will be selected. The prize, a 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport S, must be accepted as awarded and is non-transferable and non-exchangeable. The winner is responsible for all taxes, fees, and costs associated with the prize, including registration, title, licensing, insurance, and any travel or transportation costs.
Chef Roberto Santiago
At Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, providing compassionate, high-quality care goes beyond traditional medical services—it extends to the heart of the kitchen, where Chef Roberto Santiago and his Food & Nutrition team craft meals that nourish both the body and soul. Known for curating menus that include traditional Hispanic dishes, Chef Santiago ensures that patients, staff, and visitors experience the comforting flavors of home during their time at the hospital.
Chef Santiago, an integral part of the hospital’s culinary team, understands that food is not just about nutrition—it’s about creating a sense of belonging and comfort, especially for those away from home and recovering. With Osceola County’s large Hispanic population, his menus often feature beloved traditional Hispanic dishes, offering patients the familiar tastes they grew up with. The hospital’s menu, however, extends far beyond Hispanic cuisine, offering a variety of meals from all over the world, reflecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of its patients and community.
“For many of our patients, enjoying a meal that reminds them of home can make a significant difference in their overall hospital experience,” said Chef Santiago. “Food is healing, and it’s one of the ways we show compassion and care.”
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Bf3REA
Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS, alongside Osceola County leadership and key project partners, celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Fire Station 71, located on Westside Boulevard. This modern facility will replace the current station on West U.S. Highway 192, ensuring enhanced capabilities and continued coverage for the community.
“This groundbreaking represents the County’s ongoing commitment to public safety,” said Fire Chief Larry Collier. “It is part of a long term plan to improve the level of service for the community by placing fire stations in more efficient locations and constructing them to not only meet the needs of the firefighters and apparatus but also handle future growth.”
County officials were joined by representatives from Arnco Construction, the project’s construction contractor; Ardmore Roderick, the project’s planning contractor; and BRPH, the project’s architects.
Kissimmee Gateway Airport has been awarded a $10 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for a critical taxiway rehabilitation project. This significant investment will address essential maintenance needs and upgrade the airport’s infrastructure, ensuring long-term operational efficiency and safety.
Recent assessments revealed deterioration in key taxiways at the airport, prompting the need for immediate action. The upcoming project will tackle these issues head-on, focusing on improving approximately 3,200 linear feet of Taxiway Delta, including vital Runway Incursion Mitigation System (RIMS) corrections. Additionally, 800 linear feet of Taxiway Charlie will undergo partial rehabilitation.
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, the Veterans 1st Community Partners Coalition (V1CP) will host a special veterans resource event on Saturday, September 21st, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the McCormick Research Institute, located on Rummell Road in St. Cloud, FL.
This event is designed to support veterans and their families by providing access to a wide array of local resources. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about services and programs related to education, employment, food security, housing, and benefits. In addition, the event will offer information on treatment options for those in need of mental health and medical care.
In keeping with the spirit of community and family, the day will be filled with fun activities for all ages. There will be live music, art displays, and kid-friendly activities, ensuring that everyone in the family can enjoy the day. The event will also feature free raffles and prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.
The McCormick Research Institute, known for its work with veterans and equineassisted therapies, provides an ideal setting for this important community event. The Institute’s commitment to supporting veterans aligns perfectly with the goals of the V1CP.
Osceola County Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq. invites 25 couples to say “I Do” to their BOO this Halloween at the third annual HalloWedding Group Wedding “Scare-AMony” and Reception—an eerily epic way to pledge eternal love!
The Halloween Group Wedding Ceremony and Reception will take place in the idyllic setting of the Historic Osceola County Courthouse, the oldest continually operating courthouse in Florida. Couples will pledge their love and commitment amidst history, with the charm of the courthouse adding to the magic of the occasion.
Included with the “Scare-A-Mony” is a delightful reception featuring sweet treats sponsored by local Kissimmee Bakery, Candyland Designs, beverages, and themed music that will set the perfect atmosphere for celebration. Each couple will receive a decorative certificate commemorating their special day, themed photo opportunities, and a printed keepsake photo to cherish the memories forever.
Guests and couples alike are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the season by wearing family-friendly costumes or Halloween attire, adding a touch of whimsy and magic to the festivities.
By Derrick Chubbs President and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
As the rising cost of living continues to push more Central Floridians into the grip of food insecurity, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is working tirelessly to ensure no family goes hungry, providing critical resources and support to those in need across the region.
Can I afford to buy groceries this month? If I do, how will we cover rent? What will the kids eat when they come home from school? How will we make it through the weekend?
When you’re living with food insecurity, it’s all you can think about – from the moment you wake up in the morning to your last restless worries before falling asleep. That’s because hunger is much more than an empty stomach. It’s an impossible dilemma that casts a shadow over every aspect of your life.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4dgDjQG
The Silver Spurs Riding Club is gearing up to host its 7th Annual Boots, Bulls, and Barrels event on Saturday, October 5 at 7:30 p.m. inside the Silver Spurs Arena, located at 1875 Silver Spur Lane in Kissimmee. For one night only, the arena will come alive as cowboys and cowgirls compete in three of rodeo’s most exciting events—barrel racing, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding—all for the chance to take home a cash prize in this thrilling jackpot competition.
This action-packed evening is set to deliver unforgettable moments as athletes go head-to-head, showcasing their talents in these fan-favorite events. With the Silver Spurs Riding Club’s long-standing tradition of hosting world-class rodeo, the Boots, Bulls, and Barrels event promises to be an exhilarating spectacle for rodeo enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4go6JiH
Jordin Southall had six of her teamhigh 25 kills in a decisive fifth set as the Osceola Kowboys (14-3) ran its winning streak to seven in a row with a thrilling 24-26, 25-19, 26-28, 25-22, 15-9 win over Hagerty on Tuesday night.
Osceola, ranked 10th overall in the state and fourth in Class 7A, dropped the first and third sets to the Huskies — a team that came into the contest ranked 15th overall in the state and sixth in 7A.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4gwPwDA
The Osceola Chamber’s Viva Osceola, the largest Hispanic festival in Osceola County, is set to return on Sunday, October 6th, from 1 PM to 7 PM at Kissimmee Lakefront Park’s Festival Lawn. This exciting, familyfriendly event will celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of Hispanic cultures, from Venezuelan, Colombian, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Peruvian, and more.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience of Hispanic music, folklore, and cuisine that will transport you straight to the heart of these vibrant cultures. The festival is completely free and open to the community, inviting everyone to join in this lively celebration.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4eacZJ0
As summer fades, the arrival of fall brings an array of delightful family adventures to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. From beloved annual festivities to spooky treats and experiences, there is something for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
Experience Spooky Fun at Mickey’s NotSo-Scary Halloween Party
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park conjures up a spellbinding mix of fun with lively entertainment, exclusive character photo ops, and deliciously spooky treats. This separately ticketed event runs on select nights from Aug. 9 to Oct. 31, after regular park hours, from 7 p.m. to midnight.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ykAlfR
Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe 2025: A Faith-Filled Weekend of Powerful Music, Worship, and Thrills
Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe, Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, is returning to Universal Studios Florida on January 24 and 25, 2025. This unforgettable weekend will feature powerful performances by some of today’s most popular Christian artists. Guests can now purchase tickets to the faith-filled event, which will include headline performances by GRAMMY award-winning singer Brandon Lake, Billboard Christian chart-topper Forrest Frank, Dove award-winning Bethel Music, American Music Award-winning Matthew West, and more. Below is the complete Rock the Universe 2025 concert lineup.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3zk9ZLp
Celebrate Ribbon-Cutting of Partin Family Ranch Water Storage Project
On Monday, Osceola County and the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) came together to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the Partin Family Ranch Water Storage Project, a groundbreaking initiative designed to mitigate local flooding and improve water quality. The project, located on the Partin Family Ranch in District 5 of Osceola County, covers more than 3,000 acres and will serve as a crucial resource for water retention in the region.
Old Town Celebrates Halloween All October with New Characters, Photo Ops, and a Spooktacular Trick-or-Treating Event
Old Town in Kissimmee, known for its vibrant mix of shops, food, entertainment, and its famous Classic Car Cruises and Car Shows, is transforming into a Halloween wonderland this October! With new characters, exciting photo opportunities, and the annual Oct. 31 Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza, Old Town is the place to be for Halloween fun.
Spooky Saturdays in October
Every Saturday evening in October, visitors can catch the Sanderson Sisters from the beloved Halloween classic Hocus Pocus and other fan favorites like Beetlejuice roaming the streets, interacting with guests, and creating magical memories.
As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, Help Now of Osceola will host the 15th Annual Domestic Violence Rally, Awareness Walk, and Candlelight Vigil on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The event, organized by the Help Now of Osceola and the Osceola County Domestic Violence Task Force, aims to raise awareness about domestic violence and honor those affected by it.
The rally will begin at the Osceola County Courthouse in Downtown Kissimmee, where survivors and community advocates will share powerful messages to end violence against women and children. Following the rally, participants will take to the streets of Kissimmee for an Awareness Walk, demonstrating the community’s solidarity and commitment to this important cause.
Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures Celebrates 30 Years of ‘Real Florida’ with Exciting New Ownership and $19.5 Million Expansion
Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures, known for its thrilling airboat rides and authentic glimpses of ‘Real Florida,’ is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a new chapter under the ownership of KP Adventures LLC, an Orlando-based company led by local entrepreneur Chris Park.
A native of Orlando, Park was captivated by the property’s unique allure—34 acres of untouched natural lakefront beauty, located just 35 minutes from Disney, nestled in the heart of Osceola County and offering visitors an escape into the state’s natural beauty.
MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/47lfA0u
Osceola County is a hidden gem for avid runners, walkers, and kayakers seeking a combination of physical fitness and natural beauty. Although the county is one of the fastest growing regions in Florida, its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and wellmaintained trails, offer a haven for those who want to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through ten of Osceola County’s finest locations where you can experience invigorating runs and leisurely walks amid breathtaking natural landscapes.
• Shingle Creek Regional Park:
Shingle Creek Regional Park, often referred to as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. This vast park offers a network of scenic trails suitable for running and walking. The trails wind through lush forests, along the banks of Shingle Creek, and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an intense trail run, Shingle Creek has something for everyone.
• Celebration Lakeside Park:
Celebration, a charming community in Osceola County, and known to many as the ‘Town that Disney built,’ boasts Celebration Lakeside Park, a beautiful destination for runners and walkers. The park features a loop trail around Lake Rianhard, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The flat terrain and wellpaved paths make it an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or a brisk run.
In a move set to revolutionize local business growth and community engagement, Positively Osceola, the leading hub for local news, sports, and events in Osceola County, has unveiled an innovative initiative known as ‘Positively Osceola Plus.’
‘Positively Osceola Plus’ is designed to extend a helping hand to businesses, organizations, and individuals in and around Osceola County, fostering their capacity to connect with target audiences and achieve their marketing and promotional aspirations.
Recognized as Osceola County’s foremost source for trusted information, Positively Osceola is leveraging its extensive reach and credibility to provide an enhanced platform for businesses looking to expand their marketing presence and connect meaningfully with their communities.
Positively Osceola Plus offers a comprehensive suite of support services tailored to meet the diverse needs of local enterprises. From strategic marketing guidance and targeted advertising to community outreach initiatives, the program aims to empower businesses and organizations in amplifying their visibility and achieving their goals.
If you’re a snacker, chances are you’ve found yourself at the fridge or pantry late in the evening, looking for something to munch on that won’t derail the goals you work hard on in daylight hours.
Dietitians will tell you there are at least two problems with late-night eating: quantity and quality. You are likely to consume more calories than you mean to. And studies show you’re less likely to choose nutrient-dense, healthy foods as a late-night snack. Over time that can impair blood-sugar control and lead to weight gain. And if you’re eating close to bedtime, heartburn could be another problem.
Law: Which vehicles are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents?
Sadly, serious and fatal accidents take place on a daily basis in Central Florida. These crashes can happen in a number of ways and can be caused by not following traffic laws, inexperience, intoxication, distracted driving, fatigue, and medical issues.
Statistics show that fatal car accidents can often occur based on the type of vehicle. You may think that sports cars are most likely to be in crashes due to their speed and performance. However, according to the NHTSA, it’s the everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs on the roadways that are involved more frequently in serious or even deadly accidents, with sedans and pickup trucks accounting for more than three-quarters of fatal accidents. If you drive out on the roadways, here’s what you need to know about which vehicles have been involved in many of the crashes.
Delight in the positively delicious and whimsical treat of Florida Watermelon Cupcakes. This unique dessert replaces traditional cupcake batter with fresh, juicy slices of Florida watermelon, creating a refreshing and light base. The watermelon is topped with a rich, creamy layer of cream cheese frosting, enhanced with a zest of lemon for a burst of citrus flavor. This inventive dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a sweet, hydrating bite that’s sure to impress.
Enjoy a nutritious and vibrant meal with Florida Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Salad. This positively delicious dish combines tender grilled chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and fresh kale, tossed together for a wholesome and satisfying salad. Ideal for a lunch or light dinner, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy Florida’s fresh produce and proteins.
This Florida Tropical Fruit Salad is a positively delicious celebration of Florida’s finest produce. This refreshing blend of colorful fruits is perfectly sweetened with a hint of local orange blossom honey, creating a delightful treat that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. Enjoy this luscious salad on a sunny day for a true taste of tropical paradise.
This Pan-Seared Florida Culotte Steak is a positively delicious choice for any meat lover, offering a rich and savory experience. This tender cut is expertly seared to achieve a perfect crust, locking in its natural juices and enhancing its robust flavors. Simple yet luxurious, this steak is sure to impress at any dinner table.
This Florida Blue Crab Panini is a positively delicious twist on the classic sandwich. Bursting with the fresh, sweet flavors of local blue crab, this panini is grilled to crispy perfection, melding the delicate crab with a melty, creamy cheese. Ideal for a luxurious lunch or a satisfying dinner, it’s a gourmet treat that brings a taste of the Florida coast right to your table.
Indulge in the positively delicious flavors of a Florida Chicken, Mushroom, and Bacon Melt. This mouthwatering sandwich layers tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and crisp bacon under a blanket of melted cheese, all nestled between toasted bread. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of hearty, rich flavors, making it a perfect choice for a fulfilling meal.