Osceola Daily News, Osceola County's Leading and Trusted Source For Local News
Help Now of Osceola to Host 15th Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Rally, Walk, and Candlelight Vigil on October 24
Seniors Get Ready for a Day of Fun in Osceola County, Hosted by District 2 Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer
Harmomy Longhorns Fall To Lake Nona, Osceola Kowboys Lock in District 5 Championship
The Importance of Hiring Licensed and Insured Contractors PostHurricane Milton
Wild Florida’s Pumpkin Fest: Get Ready for a Gourd-geous Day of Family Fun Saturday October 19
Early Voting Begins Next Monday, October 21 for the November 5 General Election
ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS
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
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 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
IN & AROUND OSCEOLA
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
Harmomy Longhorns Fall To Lake Nona, Osceola Kowboys Lock in District 5 Championship
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.
SPORTS
Exciting Girls Volleyball District Matchups This Week, Plus Three Tuesday Football Makeup Games to Hit the Field!
A few days after Hurricane Milton reeked havoc across the state of Florida – including canceling school and athletic contests – student athletes and coaches attempt a return to normalcy this week as events return to campuses in Osceola County.
Here is a look around Osceola in sports: FOOTBALL
Seven county games scheduled for last week, were postponed because of Milton. Three of those contests (Lake Nona at Harmony, Osceola at Viera and Olympia at Celebration) were district games and will have to be made up. All three are tentatively scheduled to be played on Tuesday. Oct. 14. That will make for a short week for all three, as three were also scheduled to play on Friday. Harmony and Celebration will have an extra day to prepare as that kickoff has been pushed to 11 a.m. Saturday morning. Osceola was hoping to change its Friday night game to Saturday with Apopka, but that request was denied and that game is still on for Friday night.
“We tried to get it moved and Apopka wants to keep it on Friday,” Osceola coach Eric Pinellas said. “If that’s the case, we’ll get ready to play. It’s not like we haven’t played twice in four days of three games in 10 before, it comes with the territory.”
Osceola County Gears Up for the 4th Annual Anti- Bullying Event “Chalk Away Hate” Hosted by Commissioner Peggy Choudhry
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.
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.
Help Now of Osceola to Host 15th Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Rally, Walk, and Candlelight Vigil on October 24
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 & Comptroller Kelvin Soto Launches “Hope Cares Cards” to Improve Safety for Restraining Order Holders
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.
NEWS
Starting Monday, the City of St. Cloud will begin collecting yard debris left behind by Hurricane Milton. You can refer to the map to see which day city crews will be in your area. The city is asking residents to cut any yard debris to no longer than 4 feet and stack it at the curb. There’s no charge for this storm debris pickup.
Regular green yard waste carts will still be collected on Wednesday, as usual. However, there will be no bulk pickup during the week of October 14. The city will continue to collect garbage, yard waste, and recycling carts according to the regular schedule. Bulk pickup services will resume on October 21.
Additionally, Osceola County is opening a free yard waste drop-off site on Canoe Creek Road across from Bramble Wood Drive and Kanuga Village. The site will be open to all Osceola County residents 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily starting Saturday, October 12 and continuing through Sunday, October 20. If necessary, the timeline may be extended. For more information, call the Osceola County information line at 407-742-0000.
Yard Debris Collection in St. Cloud Post-Hurricane Milton to Begin Today, Other Recovery Services Available
Early Voting Begins Next Monday, October 21 for the November 5 General Election
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 Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto to Present Third Annual HalloWedding Scare-A-Mony & Reception
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.
Seniors Get Ready for a Day of Fun in Osceola County, Hosted by District 2 Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer
Attention Seniors! If you’re 55 and older, get ready for an exciting day at Osceola County’s Senior Fun Day this Wednesday, October 16th, from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Robert Guevara Community Center. This fantastic event, hosted by District 2 Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer, is free for Osceola County residents in this age group.
Join us for a day filled with fun activities, including games, music, raffles, prizes, and a delicious lunch! It’s a wonderful opportunity to socialize, make new friends, and enjoy a variety of engaging activities tailored just for you.
The Importance of Hiring Licensed and Insured Contractors Post-Hurricane Milton
As Osceola County begins to recover from the isolated damage caused by Hurricane Milton, it is crucial for home and business owners to be mindful when seeking contractors for repairs. Unfortunately, this is often the time when unlicensed contractors take advantage of desperate property owners, offering quick fixes that may come with long-term consequences.
Hiring licensed and insured contractors not only ensures that the work is done safely and up to code, but it also protects you from potential legal and financial risks. Trusted local businesses, such as Don Schmidt Roofing and Osceola Air, have built a reputation for excellence, honesty, and reliability—exactly what you need during a time of recovery.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Nq01eK
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.
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.
PARK HOPPING
Fall into Fun: Celebrate the Season with Enchanted Events at Walt Disney World Resort
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
Dive into the ‘Swift’ Life: Island H2O Water Park’s Taylor Swift-Themed Eras Splash Bash This Weekend!
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
Rising Development Chances for Invest 94L as New Caribbean Area Gains Attention
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports that a tropical depression may form this week in the Atlantic, particularly near the Leeward Islands. The system, identified as Invest 94L, is currently situated west of the Cabo Verde Islands and has a 60% chance of development over the next seven days.
At present, Invest 94L is navigating through a dry environment, which presents unfavorable conditions for development. However, forecasters expect the system to move westward toward warmer waters, which could foster gradual strengthening. Development is anticipated to become more likely by the middle or end of the week as it approaches the Leeward Islands.
Wild Florida's Pumpkin Fest: Get Ready for a Gourd-geous Day of Family Fun Saturday October 19
Join Wild Florida for a delightful day filled with family-friendly activities on Saturday October 19 from 10 am to 4 pm! Enjoy pumpkin painting, face painting, exciting raffles, and much more, all set in the beautiful backdrop of Wild Florida in Osceola County!
Here’s What You Can Look Forward To: Pumpkin Painting
Unleash your creativity by picking out the perfect pumpkin for just $5!
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.
Positively Osceola Unveils Dynamic Business Support Initiative, ‘Positively Osceola Plus’
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.
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.
POSITIVELY DELICIOUS
Refreshing Treats: Watermelon Cupcakes with Lemon Frosting
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.
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.
