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
As expected, Osceola High took care of business on Wednesday night — dropping Harmony in straight sets (25-9, 25-14, 25-11) — to win the FHSAA Class 7A, District 7 championship. The win moved the Lady Kowboys to 21-4 on the season and clinched the top seed for next week’s regional tournament.
Osceola will next host a regional quarterfinal on Wednesday (Oct. 23). For as long as they win, they will have home court advantage through the regional final, Oct. 30. It was a historic win of sorts for the Kowboys.
Not only did it wrap up their third consecutive district championship and eighth in the last ninth years, but it also gave Carrie Palmi her 400th career coaching win at Osceola (20th season).
“I certainly don’t view it as any great individual achievement,” Palmi said. “Rather it is a tribute to the great athletes, assistant coaches and support personnel I have had the honor of working with for the last two decades. They are the ones that deserve the credit for the wins, I’m just so thankful to them for making this job so enjoyable.”
There was some good news and some bad, as three Osceola County football teams made up district football games on Tuesday night after Hurricane Milton wiped out action last week.
First the good news; Osceola traveled to Viera and pounded out a 49-9 win over the Hawks to secure the Class 6A, District 5 championship. The win, Osceola’s third district title in a row, ensures the Kowboys (5-2, 2-0) will make it to the FHSAA playoffs for a 15th consecutive year.
In winning for the 54th time in their last 55 district games, Osceola saw Alijah Jenkins return the opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown. They would jump out to a 14-0 lead and never trail, although the Hawks rallied with a touchdown and field goal before the half to make it a relatively close game at intermission, 21-9.
On Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 5 PM to 11 PM, parents and students across Osceola County are invited to join District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry for the 4th Annual Anti-Bullying Glow in the Dark Event at Celebration High School. The event, titled Chalk Away Hate, aims to unite the community in spreading awareness about the impact of bullying and the importance of kindness.
Attendees can look forward to fun activities, including chalk art and over $25,000 in free raffle prizes such as laptops, Apple Watches, Switches, and scooters. Special guests include popular TikTok and Instagram stars, with emcee Athena Choudhry adding to the entertainment.
“This event is all about bringing people together to stand against bullying and promote positivity,” said Commissioner Choudhry. “We want everyone to enjoy a memorable night while making a difference in the lives of our students.”
For more information, contact Commissioner Choudhry’s office at (407) 742-2387 or email Peggy.Choudhry@osceola.org.
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.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and on Thursday, October 24 at 6 PM, Help Now of Osceola will host the 15th Annual Domestic Violence Rally, Awareness Walk, and Candlelight Vigil. This extremely passionate event focuses to raise awareness about domestic violence and honors 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.
Help Now of Osceola’s event will conclude with a solemn candlelight vigil at the Kissimmee Police Department. This vigil is a tribute to those who have lost their lives to domestic violence, offering a moment of reflection and hope for current survivors.
Osceola County Clerk Kelvin Soto, Esq. has introduced the “Hope Cares Cards,” a new initiative designed to increase safety for individuals who have obtained restraining orders. These wallet-sized or digital cards contain essential information about a final injunction for protection, making it easier for individuals to carry proof of their restraining order wherever they go.
Starting October 1, 2024, eligible individuals can request a free “Hope Cares Card” from the Clerk’s Office. The cards are aimed at providing quick access to vital protection details, ensuring law enforcement and others can respond swiftly in cases of violation. This initiative is part of a broader effort to offer more accessible, secure, and effective ways to protect those who are at risk.
“By giving people an easy way to show the court’s decision, we hope to empower those who need protection, while supporting law enforcement in their efforts to respond effectively,” said Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller.
As the November 5 general election approaches, Osceola County residents are encouraged to prepare to take advantage of early voting options. Early voting provides a convenient way for voters to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day and avoid long lines at polling locations.
Early voting will be available across Osceola County starting on Monday October 21, 2024, and continuing through November 2, 2024. Residents can vote early at several designated locations across the county. The early voting sites are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily during this period.
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.
The City of Kissimmee will be participating in Florida City Government Week from October 21 to 27, aiming to raise awareness of the essential role local government plays in the lives of its residents while promoting greater community involvement.
In collaboration with the Florida League of Cities, this initiative will shine a spotlight on the various resources, services, and programs that enrich the quality of life in Kissimmee. The City Commission has officially proclaimed this week as Florida City Government Week, inviting all residents, city officials, and employees to take part in activities that highlight and celebrate the importance of municipal government.
The 2024 Osceola County Faces of the Future Fundraising Breakfast will be held on October 30 at the Tupperware Brands Branch in Kissimmee. The event will shine a spotlight on the transformative work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, especially the branches in Kissimmee and St. Cloud, and their ongoing efforts to change the lives of local youth.
Join the 2024 Osceola County ‘Faces of the Future Breakfast’ to Support local Boys and Girls Clubs on October 30 READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ziuiZK
Since its founding in 1944, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida have provided a safe, nurturing environment for children from underserved communities, helping them realize their potential. Their programs focus on building character, leadership, and academic success, acting as a bridge to brighter futures for the region’s young people.
Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS held a groundbreaking ceremony for Fire Station 75 on Wednesday, October 16. The event marks the start of construction for the county’s newest fire station, located at 7701 Funie Steed Road in Kissimmee.
The groundbreaking was led by Vice Chair and District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry, alongside Osceola County Fire Chief Larry Collier. The new facility, once completed, will become the 18th fire station in service for the county.
Fire Station 75 is set to enhance fire and emergency medical services on the county’s west side, adding both engine and rescue companies to improve response times and service coverage in the area. This new station is part of Osceola County’s ongoing efforts to expand its public safety infrastructure to keep up with the region’s growing population and needs.
Universal Orlando Announces Epic Universe Opening Date: May 22, 2025, with Five Immersive Worlds and Groundbreaking Attractions
The countdown to Universal Epic Universe has officially begun! Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated fourth theme park will open on May 22, 2025, unlocking the portals to five incredible worlds that will transport guests to extraordinary adventures beyond their imagination.
As Universal’s most ambitious project yet, Epic Universe will redefine theme park entertainment with over 50 experiences ranging from cuttingedge attractions to immersive dining and shopping. The park will feature five themed worlds, including Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe. At its heart, the luxurious 500-room Universal Helios Grand Hotel will offer exclusive views and direct access to Epic Universe.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3A6Yebr
Island H2O Water Park is set to host an exciting Taylor Swift-themed event this weekend, aligning with the singer’s concert appearances in South Florida. The Eras Splash Bash will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, following regular operating hours, ensuring shorter wait times for attendees. Early access for eventgoers begins at 2 p.m.
This family-friendly takeover promises a fun-filled experience with trivia contests, a lively foam party, and a costume competition, all accompanied by a playlist of Swift’s greatest hits. Guests can enjoy the park’s thrilling water slides, lazy river, and wave pool.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3BEVjHm
Osceola County Supervisor of Elections, Mary Jane Arrington, has sent out sample ballots for the upcoming 2024 General Election.
The Supervisor of Elections has mailed sample ballots to all registered voters who do not have a vote-by-mail ballot request on file. Voters may also visit our website www.voteosceola.gov/enus/Voter-Information/Check-Your-Voter-Status to see their sample ballot.
For trusted information about state and local elections, visit the Osceola County Supervisor of Elections website voteosceola.gov, and the Florida Department of State’s website at DOS.Myflorida.com/elections.
The City of St. Cloud is gearing up for another spine-chilling Halloween event with the return of its annual Trail of Terror, this time under the terrifying theme, Ripped from the Silver Screen. This year’s haunted trail promises to bring some of the scariest moments from classic horror films to life, making it a must-visit attraction for thrill-seekers in the community.
The Trail of Terror will take place over two weekends: October 18, 19, 25, and 26. Each night, the event will run from 8:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. at Peghorn Park, located at 2101 Peghorn Way in St. Cloud. Tickets are priced at $10 per person and can be purchased online via webtrac.stcloudfl.gov or at the gate.
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.
Katelyn Tribble, RD, LDN
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.
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.
