Surfing Santas to Ride the Waves in Cocoa Beach This Christmas Eve Morning
ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS
LIVE with City of St. Cloud’s Special Event Manager Rose Testerman
November 21st, 2024
LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office
November 20th, 2024
LIVE with Maryemma Bachelder, Director of Communications with the City of St. Cloud
November 15th, 2024
LIVE in the City of St. Cloud to swear in new Mayor Chris Robertson, Council Member Jennifer A. Paul, and Council Member Kolby Urban
November 14th, 2024
LIVE with Mayor of Kissimmee, Jackie Espinosa
November 6th, 2024
VIDEOS ON DEMAND
Boating With Brandon Episode One
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 Episode Two
“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.
Boating With Brandon Episode Three
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
Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the finest materials and craftmanship.
Wild Florida Albino Alligators
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
IN & AROUND OSCEOLA
LIVE in the City of St. Cloud to swear in new Mayor Chris Robertson, Council
Member Jennifer A. Paul, and Council Member Kolby Urban
LIVE at St. Cloud Levee Liquor & Gas
Unveiling New Mural Part of Osceola Arts in Public Places
LIVE at the 12th Annual State of Osceola County
IN & AROUND OSCEOLA
LIVE as St. Cloud Honors Veterans and Reveals New Historical Marker
LIVE with Randy Booth, Big Boss with the Silver Spurs Rodeo
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
Holiday Cheer Meets Film Noir: Don’t Miss Osceola Arts’
A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol this December!
Following the sold-out success of Jersey Boys, Osceola Arts is gearing up for another highly anticipated production: A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol. Running from December 6 through December 22, 2024, this festive show promises to deliver holiday cheer with classic tunes, original songs, and a nostalgic twist. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic—tickets are expected to go fast!
Set on Christmas Eve, 1943, this production takes you back in time with the Feddington Players, who bring a unique twist to Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” during a chaotic live radio broadcast in Newark, NJ.
The story takes a dramatic turn when William St. Claire, a veteran actor but newcomer to radio, faces a personal crisis on air, blending his life story with Dickens’s tale. The cast improvises through various mishaps, leading to a suspenseful, film noirinspired finale that promises plenty of mystery, humor, and heartfelt moments.
A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol, featuring original songs by Faye Greenberg and David Wohl (of High School Musical fame), also includes swing versions of beloved Christmas classics. The show offers a perfect mix of drama, comedy, and holiday cheer for the entire family.
Hope Partnership to Launch ‘Hope IDs,’ Continuing Vital Identification Assistance Program in 2025 Under New Name
Effective January 1, 2025, Hope Partnership will officially transition its identification assistance program from IDignity Osceola to Hope Identification (Hope IDs). This change reflects the organization’s commitment to providing seamless services while better aligning with its mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities.
Since 2016, IDignity Osceola has helped individuals navigate the challenging process of obtaining essential identification documents. Without these documents, many face barriers to housing, employment, healthcare, and other fundamental needs. Over the years, this program has empowered individuals to overcome these obstacles, fostering stability and self-sufficiency.
“While the name of the program is changing, the mission remains the same: to serve individuals facing challenges in obtaining identification,” said Rev. Mary Lee Downey, CEO of Hope Partnership. “Hope IDs will continue to build on the legacy of IDignity Osceola, with deep gratitude to IDignity Inc. for their years of guidance and partnership, while planning for future growth to meet the evolving needs of our community.”
Commissioner
Brandon Arrington’s Party with Santa Spreads Holiday Cheer to Osceola Families
Families across Osceola County's District 3 gathered at Valencia College’s Poinciana Campus on Saturday for a magical afternoon of holiday festivities at Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington’s annual Party with Santa event. The celebration, held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, brought together community members for an unforgettable day of joy, laughter, and holiday cheer.
The event featured free toys for children, raffle giveaways for adults and students, and an array of activities, including face painting, balloon artistry, and pony rides. Attendees also enjoyed sweet treats and the opportunity to capture cherished holiday photos with Santa Claus.
“This event is all about celebrating the holiday spirit and bringing joy to the community,” Commissioner Arrington said during the festivities. “It’s always amazing to see families come together, especially during the holiday season. This year’s turnout is a testament to the strength and spirit of District 3, and I’m so grateful to our community partners for helping make it possible.”
Valencia College Sets All-Time Enrollment High for Fall 2024 With Record-Breaking 49,676 Students
Valencia College shattered its previous enrollment record this fall, welcoming an unprecedented 49,676 students to its campuses and marking a new milestone in the institution's historic growth trajectory. Overall, the number of degree-seeking students enrolled this fall increased 5.5% from fall 2023.
Coming on the heels of a record-breaking spring 2024 semester, the new data reinforce the college’s continuing commitment to providing access to quality, affordable higher education, and workforce training to the residents of Orange and Osceola counties.
“We are proud of our enrollment, not just because it is our highest ever, but because it demonstrates that we are fulfilling our mission as an affordable and open-access college responding to growing demand for education and training in Central Florida,” said Dr. Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College.
Notably, the college also welcomed more first-generation college students than ever before. Of the 49,676 students taking credit classes in the fall semester, 25,176 reported that their parents did not attend college or did not graduate from college.
SPORTS
Record Holiday Travel Predicted: 119.3 Million Americans to Travel for Year-End Holidays
AAA projects a record-breaking 119.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this holiday season, spanning December 21 to January 1. This figure narrowly surpasses the previous record set in 2019 by 64,000 travelers, showcasing a significant rebound in holiday travel post-pandemic. The projection also represents an increase of 3 million travelers compared to last year.
“This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “With Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we’re anticipating record-breaking travel numbers the weekends before and after the holiday.”
Nearly 90% of holiday travelers—107 million people—will take to the roads, maintaining its position as the most popular travel method. While this marks an increase of 2.5 million drivers compared to 2023, it falls just short of the 2019 record of 108 million. Favorable gas prices, averaging lower than last year’s $3.12 per gallon, and the flexibility of road trips contribute to the surge.
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Performs First
Life-Saving Pulmonary Thrombectomy
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has reached a medical milestone with the successful completion of its first percutaneous pulmonary thrombectomy, a life-saving procedure used to remove dangerous blood clots from the pulmonary artery.
The groundbreaking procedure was performed by Dr. Prakrut Patel, MD, FACC, and the cardiac catheterization laboratory team on Barbara Gilbert, a 74-year-old St. Cloud resident. Using a minimally invasive technique, the team utilized a small needle and catheter, guided by X-ray, to extract a six-inch blood clot from Gilbert’s lung.
Gilbert had been diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism, a condition caused by blood clots traveling from the lower extremities to the lungs via the heart. Pulmonary embolism affects approximately 900,000 Americans annually, according to the American Lung Association, and is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death in the United States.
“Pulmonary embolism is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death, which is why a thrombectomy needs to be performed quickly and efficiently,” Dr. Patel said. “Patients in our community can now receive this crucial treatment at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and possibly recover at home within a few days.”
Experience Kissimmee and Celebration Brewing Launch Citrus Kiss Beer to Support Healthy Start Coalition of Osceola
Yesterday, Experience Kissimmee and Celebration Brewing unveiled Citrus Kiss, a unique, limited-edition sour beer inspired by the vibrant flavors of Kissimmee and Osceola County. This first-of-its-kind collaboration highlights the region’s zest for life while giving back to the community.
A portion of the proceeds from Citrus Kiss will be donated to the Healthy Start Coalition of Osceola County, a non-profit committed to improving maternal and child health by reducing infant mortality, preterm births, and low birth weight.
“This partnership exemplifies what Experience Kissimmee stands for: supporting our community while promoting the unique charm of our region,” said DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee, during the event.
Light the World: Charity-Focused Giving Machines Bring Hope and Joy to Central Florida
The Light the World Giving Machines, innovative charity-focused vending machines sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have made their debut in Florida. Located at the Altamonte Mall from December 17, 2024, to January 2, 2025, these machines offer a unique way to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will officially launch the initiative on December 17 at 6:00 p.m. at the Altamonte Mall. The machines allow donors to purchase essential items such as newborn welcome kits, hot showers, bedding sets, holiday meals, and senior medical alert systems. Each item purchased is donated to help local and global communities, bringing relief, dignity, and joy to recipients.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4ggnegh
Drive to Make a Positive Difference: Osceola Council on Aging’s Annual Jeep Raffle Returns Beginning July 1
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.
Surfing Santas to Ride the Waves in Cocoa Beach This
Christmas Eve Morning
Cocoa Beach is gearing up for its 16th annual Surfing Santas event, a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration set for December 24. Starting at 7:30 a.m., the beach at 3 Minutemen Causeway (where the causeway intersects with Route A1A North Atlantic Avenue) will transform into a festive spectacle of surfboards and Santa suits, drawing thousands of participants and spectators.
What began in 2009 as a whimsical family outing has evolved into a globally recognized holiday tradition, earning its title as the “Greatest Show on Surf.” Last year, the event attracted over 10,000 spectators and nearly 600 surfing Santas dressed in their jolliest attire. This year’s event promises to be even bigger, with hopes of setting a new record for the most surfing Santas riding the Atlantic waves.
NeoCity, Osceola County’s technological innovation district, has taken a significant leap forward with a newly approved Memorandum of Understanding between the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners, Concept Companies, and Empyrean Medical Systems, Inc. This collaboration signals a transformative step in the region’s journey to become a global leader in advanced technology and innovation.
PARK HOPPING
SeaWorld Orlando Unveils World’s First Arctic Flying Theater, Opening Spring 2025
SeaWorld Orlando unveiled plans for its latest groundbreaking attraction planned to open in Spring 2025: the World’s firstof-its-kind Arctic flying theater. This new experience invites families to soar over icy landscapes, dive beneath frozen waters and come face-to-face with some of the planet’s most magnificent creatures.
From majestic beluga whales to awe-inspiring orcas and walruses, this adventure puts riders right in the middle of the action. It’s also all indoors, so rain or shine, this attraction guarantees a cool, thrilling escape for the entire family all year round.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4fSvjHj
VISIT OSCEOLA
Exploring Osceola County’s Natural Trails and Spaces: A Paradise for Avid Runners, Walkers, and Kayakers
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.
Wreaths Across America Ceremony Honors Veterans at St. Cloud’s Mount Peace Cemetery
On a beautiful December afternoon, more than 1,400 wreaths were carefully placed on the graves of fallen heroes during the Wreaths Across America ceremony held on Saturday at Mount Peace Cemetery in St. Cloud. The event, part of a nationwide initiative, united local residents from St. Cloud and Around Osceola, veterans, and families in a moving tribute to honor those who served and sacrificed for their country.
This year’s ceremony at Mount Peace Cemetery was a solemn yet uplifting occasion, marked by heartfelt speeches, ceremonial wreath placements, and the shared commitment to the Wreaths Across America mission: Remember, Honor, Teach.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3VFIKTx
$944 million Up for Grabs in Christmas Eve Mega Millions Drawing
There’s extra magic in the air this holiday season as the Mega Millions® jackpot has grown to almost a billion dollars! A massive prize currently estimated at $944 million ($429.4 million cash) is on tap for the next drawing on Tuesday, December 24.
The jackpot rolled again after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn Friday night – the white balls 2, 20, 51, 56 and 67, plus the gold Mega Ball 19. If won at that level, it would be the largest prize ever won in December and the seventh largest in Mega Millions history!
Osceola Chamber to Host 20th Annual Three Kings Day Celebration at Old Town Kissimmee January 5
The Osceola Chamber will host the 20th Annual Three Kings Day Osceola Celebration on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Old Town in Kissimmee, presented by AdventHealth, brought to you by Experience Kissimmee.
This annual tradition unites the community in a joyous celebration of Three Kings Day, or Día de los Reyes, offering a vibrant day filled with culture, generosity, and festive cheer.
Rooted in rich Latin folklore, Three Kings Day commemorates the journey of the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the Christ Child. For many, especially children, this day is filled with excitement, as they anticipate gifts and treats brought by the Three Kings.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4gFDOGh
Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute Opens Walk-In
Clinic in St. Cloud
The Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute is pleased to announce a new walkin clinic has opened in St. Cloud to provide expert sports medicine and orthopedic care to residents without an appointment. The practice opened its doors to the community earlier this month, offering the latest diagnostic and treatment options for injuries or illnesses that affect the bones and soft tissues in all ages.
Highly trained bilingual medical providers will evaluate and treat sports concussions, sprains, strains, stress fractures and other orthopedic injuries. Patients will have immediate access to x-ray imaging and casting during their visit.
“The Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute walk-in clinic is a convenient way for people to get faster, more streamlined specialty care for orthopedic and sports medicine injuries,” said Kelsey Kiser, Assistant Vice President Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute. “Patients are often able to skip a trip to the emergency room and go straight to the experts, who can diagnose, and in some cases treat the injury or condition in a single visit.”
HEALTH
Prostate Wellness: Dietary Choices from Orlando Health That Make a Difference
Eating right can keep your heart, digestion and brain functioning properly, but did you know a healthy diet can help your prostate, too? While there are certain factors outside of your control that affect prostate health, such as your age and family history, making healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent prostate problems.
Why Prostate Health Matters
An important part of a man’s reproductive system, the prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate produces fluid that contains enzymes, minerals and proteins that nourish and transport sperm.
Maintaining prostate health is important for men of all ages, but as you get older and risk increases for complications like incontinence, sexual dysfunction and prostate cancer, it’s even more essential.
HEALTH
Katelyn Tribble, RD, LDN
Orlando Health: Strengthen Your Aging Bones with Smart Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle Choices
As you grow older, it is inevitable that your bones will become more fragile. It’s simply part of your body’s natural life cycle. But that doesn’t mean you are powerless to slow the process – or bolster the strength of your bones to avoid osteoporosis.
From the time you are born, your bone tissue is constantly breaking down and rebuilding, through bone remodeling. The process operates at different rates throughout your life.
You reach peak bone mass in your 20s and then hit a period of stability throughout your 30s. But then sometime in your 40s and 50s, your bones start breaking down faster than your body can rebuild them.
INJURY LAW Draper
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.
From Family Feasts to Office Treats: Cowboy Chicken’s Thanksgiving Meals Perfectly Sized for Every Celebration
As Thanksgiving approaches, Cowboy Chicken is making holiday meals stress-free and delicious with their expanded turkey offerings, ensuring gatherings of all sizes are well-fed. From now until December 31, Cowboy Chicken offers handseasoned, juicy turkeys in a variety of meal packages to suit any occasion, whether it’s a large family gathering or an intimate meal for one.
Positively Delicious Hearty Harvest: Florida Chicken, Sweet Potato & Kale Salad
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.
Sunshine in a Bowl: Florida’s Ultimate Tropical Fruit Salad, It’s Positively Delicious
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.
Experience Positively Delicious Pan-Seared Florida Culotte Steak
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.
Coastal Cravings: Positively Delicious Florida Blue Crab Panini
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.
Positively Delicious Savory Sensations: Florida Chicken, Mushroom & Bacon Melt
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.
