Kissimmee to Host Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration Saturday, January 11
The City of Kissimmee invites the community to its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration on Saturday, January 11, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Kissimmee Lakefront Park Festival Lawn, located at 201 Lakeview Drive. Read the Full Story
Around Osceola
P ups and Pints Festival Festival for Pet Lovers and Families Returns to Celebration Jan. 18
Free Movie Night with KUA: The Wild Robot to Shine on 50-Foot Screen at Lakefront Park, Friday, January 10
4th Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K on February 1: Honoring the Footprints on Our Hearts with a Mission of Hope
Osceola Chamber to Host Three Kings Day Celebration Kissimmee January 5
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
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital earns APEX Recognition Award from American Association for Respiratory Care
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has earned an APEX Recognition Award from the American Association for Respiratory Care for its commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based respiratory care.
The respiratory department at Orlando Health St. Cloud was among 41 recipients in the United States of the 2025-2026 Apex Recognition Award, including Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. This is the first APEX designation for both Orlando Health facilities, which were honored in the Acute Care Hospital category.
“We are honored to receive this recognition, which highlights our commitment to providing compassionate and exceptional respiratory care,” said Sheila Bakker, BHS, RRT, director of respiratory care at Orlando Health St. Cloud. “This achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of our team, who work tirelessly to deliver personalized, high-quality care tailored to the unique needs of each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our community.”
Celebrate the 81st Osceola County Fair: Thrilling Entertainment and Family Fun Coming to OHP February 14-23
The Osceola County Fair is gearing up to celebrate its milestone 81st anniversary, offering ten days of excitement, entertainment, and community spirit from February 14 to 23, 2025, at Osceola Heritage Park. Organized by the Kissimmee Valley Livestock Show (KVLS), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting agriculture and youth development, this year’s fair promises to be the biggest and best yet, with an expanded lineup of attractions, performances, and special events.
Among the special events planned for this year is the highly anticipated Demolition Derby, set to take place on Sunday, February 16, at 5:00 PM, where attendees can witness cars crash and collide in a thrilling display of automotive mayhem. Fans of horsepower will also enjoy the Truck & Tractor Pull, scheduled for Saturday, February 15, at 12:00 PM, showcasing some of the most powerful machines in action. The Osceola Young Hearts Pageant, celebrating the youth of the county, will take center stage on Sunday, February 16, at 1:00 PM, while the 4H/FFA “Share the Fun” contest on February 18 at 6:30 PM will encourage young participants to showcase their talents.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4fKn53N
Orlando Health’s Hospital Care at Home Hits 2,000-Patient Milestone in Central Florida
Orlando Health’s Hospital Care at Home program, which delivers acute hospitallevel care directly to adult patients in the comfort of their own homes, has successfully treated over 2,000 patients across Central Florida since its launch in February 2023.
The program, available to Orlando Health patients who meet specific clinical criteria determined by emergency department and hospital staff, is now available through Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, Orlando Health Emergency Room –Osceola, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Randal Park, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Lake Mary, Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital.
In June, Hospital Care at Home celebrated its 1,000th patient admitted into the program.
4th Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K on
February 1: Honoring the Footprints on Our
Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 1, 2025, as the community gathers for the 4th Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K.
This inspiring event, taking place from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the St. Cloud Florida Lakefront Park, brings together runners, walkers, and families to honor the memory of children and loved ones lost too soon, while supporting the vital work of Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies.
Organized by the Graham J. Cowan Foundation, the event has raised $27,575 since its inception, with 100% of proceeds directly benefiting the hospital.
Participants are invited to join this USATF certified course and chip-timed race, which is open to runners, walkers, and strollers. The event fosters an uplifting environment where the lives that live in our hearts are honored, hope is shared, and resilience is celebrated.
To register for the event, visit RunSignUp.com.
Experience Empowerment and Laughter with ‘9 to 5 The Musical’ at Osceola Arts
Get ready to relive the bold spirit of the late 1970s as Osceola Arts brings “9 to 5 The Musical” to the stage. Based on the iconic 1980 film, this lively production features Dolly Parton’s celebrated music and lyrics, paired with Patricia Resnick’s sharp and witty book.
Set to captivate audiences, the story follows three determined female coworkers— Violet, Judy, and Doralee—who have had enough of their sexist, egotistical boss. In an unexpected twist, they devise a wildly imaginative plan to turn the tables on him, resulting in a workplace transformation that’s equal parts empowering and hilarious. Along the way, the trio discovers strength in solidarity, embracing a newfound confidence that changes their lives forever.
Performances begin on Friday, February 28, 2025, and run through Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Osceola Arts in Kissimmee. Special accommodations are available, including an Audio Described performance on Friday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m. and an American Sign Language-interpreted performance on Saturday, March 15, at 2:00 p.m.
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.
The Osceola Chamber continues this tradition, offering a day of festivities and familyfriendly activities, including:
• Toy giveaways to bring smiles to children’s faces
• Bicycle and tablet raffles for some lucky attendees
Pups and Pints Festival Festival for Pet Lovers and Families Returns to Celebration January 18
Dog lovers and craft beer enthusiasts, mark your calendars for the muchanticipated “Pups and Pints” event, set to take place on Saturday, January 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lakeside Park, located at 851 Celebration Avenue.
This annual festival celebrates all things canine, offering a day filled with live entertainment, popular vendors, engaging contests, and a “watering hole bar” serving a selection of beverages. Whether you’re a pet owner or simply an animal admirer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Pe73Ea
Kissimmee to Host Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration at Lakefront Park on January 11
Mark your calendars for Saturday, January 11, 2025, as the City of Kissimmee hosts its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration at the picturesque Kissimmee Lakefront Park –Festival Lawn, located at 201 Lakeview Drive in Kissimmee. The event runs from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, inviting the community to honor Dr. King’s legacy through a vibrant day of unity, diversity, and celebration.
This family-friendly event will feature a variety of activities and entertainment, including:
• Live Music: Enjoy performances that inspire and bring the community together.
• Delicious Food: Savor flavors from diverse food vendors.
• KUA Kids Power Zone: A fun and interactive space for children to enjoy.
• Children’s Art Village: A creative outlet for young artists to explore and express themselves.
Dunkin’ Teams Up with Sabrina Carpenter to Kick Off the New Year with ‘Sabrina’s Brown Sugar Shakin’ Espresso
Dunkin’ has teamed up with Sabrina Carpenter, the GRAMMY-nominated global superstar behind this year’s chart-topping hit “Espresso,” to introduce “Sabrina’s Brown Sugar Shakin’ Espresso”—a limited-time, handcrafted iced beverage combining Dunkin’s bold espresso, brown sugar notes and oatmilk, shaken to perfection. The result is a deliciously frothy, subtly sweet sip ready to kick off 2025 in style. The launch is celebrated through Dunkin’s Positively Playful new ad campaign, Shake That Ess’, starring the espresso expert and bringing Sabrina’s burst of personality and trademark humor into the Dunkin’ cinematic universe.
It’s Your Move: FLHSMV Calls on Drivers to Prioritize
Safety in January’s ‘Move Over’ Awareness Campaign
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), in collaboration with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA), and AAA—The Auto Club Group, has launched a January campaign to educate drivers about Florida’s recently expanded ‘Move Over’ law.
The ‘Move Over’ law, first introduced in Florida in 1971, initially required motorists to yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles. Over the years, it has been revised to enhance road safety. In 2014, the law was expanded to include utility and sanitation vehicles, and in 2021, it was updated to cover road and bridge maintenance or construction vehicles displaying warning lights.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3W4rMy5
The City of Kissimmee invites the community to its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration on Saturday, January 11, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Kissimmee Lakefront Park Festival Lawn, located at 201 Lakeview Drive.
This free event provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to come together in celebration of the life, achievements, and lasting legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The gathering will highlight his contributions to civil rights and unity, offering a meaningful day of reflection and community connection.
Mecum Kissimmee 2025: World’s Largest Collector
Car Auction Returns January 7–19
Mecum Auctions is set to host its renowned Kissimmee event from January 7 to 19, 2025, at Osceola Heritage Park. Celebrated as “The World’s Largest Collector Car Auction,” this year’s gathering promises an impressive lineup of approximately 4,500 vehicles, including American muscle cars, classics, Corvettes, trucks, exotics, hot rods, customs, and more.
Several prestigious collections will be showcased, offering attendees a chance to witness and bid on rare and unique automobiles:
• The Double G Collection: This assemblage features exceptional vehicles, including a 1936 Ford Coupe and a 1981 DeLorean, highlighting automotive history’s diversity.
• The Heritage Collection: Celebrating American automotive heritage, this collection includes Fords, Shelbys, a split-window Corvette, a Camaro Z28, and more.
• The Ray Fauber Estate Collection: Dominated by vintage Corvettes and Cadillacs, this collection features low-mileage originals and desirable special editions, all offered at no reserve.
REFLECTION & HOPE
City of Kissimmee Reflects on 2024, Shares Vision and Hope for 2025
Positively Osceola connected with influential community leaders, organizations, agencies, and businesses, inviting them to reflect on the achievements and challenges of 2024 while sharing their aspirations and goals for 2025. Among those offering valuable insights and a forward-looking vision was the City of Kissimmee.
As the City of Kissimmee reflects on its accomplishments, challenges, and vision for 2025, it remains committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, driving economic development, and advancing sustainable initiatives. This year’s efforts addressed immediate needs while paving the way for a more prosperous and resilient community in the year ahead. Notable accomplishments include:
Ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents continued to be a top priority for the City of Kissimmee. The Kissimmee Fire Department earned accreditation from the Commission of Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), which reflects its commitment to providing reliable emergency services and maintaining high operational standards.
REFLECTION & HOPE
Osceola Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff Reflects on 2024, Shares Vision and
Positively Osceola connected with influential community leaders, inviting them to reflect on the achievements and challenges of 2024 while sharing their aspirations and goals for 2025. Among those offering valuable insights and a forward-looking vision was Dr. Mark Shanoff, Superintendent of the School District of Osceola County.
"The School District of Osceola County has had a successful 2024. And we are looking forward to an even better 2025. In the school district, we are unapologetic about our high expectations for our students. For our team, we have focused on building a Day One culture. This means that we aspire to approach each day with the same optimism and belief that typically comes with the first day of school.
In November, we welcomed three new board members, Bethzaida Garcia is District 2, Anthony Cook is District 3 and Paula Bronson in District 5. Chair Heather Kahoun (District 4) and Vice Chair Terry Castillo (District 1) were unanimously elected by their fellow board members to continue in their leadership roles. "
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
