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 Tonight at 6pm
Early Voting Begins Today, October 21 for the November 5 General Election
County to
Tonight at 5:30pm on Sunbridge Parkway Extension Corridor Evaluation
Featured Videos
Osceola County Unveils New 6.9-Mile Fortune Lakeshore Trail, Expanding Its 200-Mile Master Trail Network
Osceola
Host Public Meeting
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Volunteers Mobilize for Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
St. Cloud Sweeps OBC Cross Country Championships as Decker and Lee Defend Individual Titles
Osceola County, Led by District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry, to Host 4th Annual ‘Chalk Away Hate’ Anti-Bullying Event on November 9
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
SPORTS
Soldier City Classic, Battle of the Boulevard, OBC Championships Highlight Busy Week in and Around Osceola in Sports
To say it’s a big week in Osceola High School sports is a massive understatement. Football grabs top billing as the 20th Soldier City Classic between St. Cloud and Harmony is slated for the Ranch at 7 p.m. Friday. Less than 30 miles away, Poinciana travels to Liberty for the 18th playing of the Battle of the Boulevards. Tohopekaliga can clinch a share of a district football championship with a win at Lake Nona on the same night. Toss in Osceola’s Friday game at highly-ranked Lake Wales and it is a tasty menu of football this week.
As if that wasn’t enough, Orange Belt Conference Championships will be contested in girls’ golf Monday, boys’ golf Tuesday and in cross country on Wednesday. For good measure, Osceola, the fifth ranked team in Class7A and top-ranked teamin Region 2, starts its state playoff run by hosting Windermere in a first round regional game on Wednesday. With a win, Osceola would host a regional semifinal on Saturday. Orange Belt Conference individual and team champions will be crowned in cross country on Wednesday.
“If you love high school sports, this is an incredible week of action,” Osceola County Athletics Director Ryan Adams said. “We are going to crown four more Orange Belt Conference team champions this week, Osceola and Harmony have made it to the regional playoffs in volleyball and we have some great football rivalries on Friday.”
SPORTS
St. Cloud Sweeps OBC Cross Country Championships as Decker and Lee Defend Individual Titles
Lailana Decker and Levi Lee repeated as individual champions, and the Bulldogs swept the team competition to claim titles at the 2024 Orange Belt Conference Championships on Wednesday afternoon at Austin Tindall Park.
Decker, who ran for Harmony the first three years of her varsity career before transferring to St. Cloud this past summer, was masterful in winning the 5K race in 20:17.87. Her time was a few seconds off her winning time a year ago, but was still 32 seconds faster than teammate Kyla Perez’s second place finish of 20:50.13.
“It felt good to win again,” Decker said after the race. “It was really nice running weather and didn’t feel pressed at all, it was a relaxing run.”
In addition to the 1-2 finish by Decker and Perez, the Lady Bulldogs got a seventh place finish from Jade Shroyer (22:34.13), a 16th place from Caitlyn Matchak (23:57.22) and a 20th from Ahryanna Garay-Torres (24:51) to tally 40 points and unseat defending champion Celebration (46) – who finished second. Harmony (56) was third; with Gateway (100), Tohopekaliga (158) and Poinciana (194) rounding out the field.
St. Cloud’s Espn Pool Dominates to Win Orange Belt Conference Boys
Golf Title, Leading Bulldogs to Fifth Championship in Six Years
After losing the Orange Belt Conference individual golf championship to Celebration’s Ethan Badilla in a two-hole playoff last year, St. Cloud’s Espn Pool knew he had to get better with his short game. Pool said he put in the time putting and chipping for the last 12 months and it was apparent that effort paid off Tuesday as the senior shot a blistering four-under par 68 to win the OBC title by five shots over teammate and freshman Dominick Velazquez.
“It was a relief to finally win this tournament, especially after coming so close last year,” Pool said. “It was a little windy out there today and to tell you the truth I needed to scrap around a little. I missed a lot of greens out but I was able to get up and down and then the putter stayed pretty hot.”
Pool’s only blemish came on his third hole of the day, when he missed the green on the par three, third and failed to get up and down. But he birdied the fifth and ninth holes for an outward bound one-under 35. He then chipped in for birdie on 10 to go three under. On the #13, a 515-yard Par 5, Pool hit a massive drive over the corner of the right side waste area–catching the downside of the slope and leaving himself just over 100 yards from the green. He then flipped an easy wedge to within four feet and tapped in for an eagle to get to four under.
SPORTS
Alex Springs’ Three Touchdowns and Key Turnovers Propel Bulldogs Past
Tohopekaliga, Keeping St. Cloud’s District Championship Hopes Alive
By any sense of the word, it was far from artistic football. But that did not keep St. Cloud coach Mike Short from calling the Bulldogs come-from-behind 31-24 win over Tohopekaliga “beautiful,” in a contest where the two teams combined for 10 turnovers (12 if you count recovered on-sides kicks) and were whistled for more than 200 yards in penalties.
The win by the Bulldogs threw the Class 7A, District 10 race into some serious doubt. If Tohopekaliga (4-3, 1-1) can beat Lake Nona (53, 2-0) and if St. Cloud (4-4, 1-1) can beat Harmony (1-5, 0-2) next week, it would create a three-way tie for the district championship. In that case, the highest ranked team would be awarded the district title and would advance to the state playoffs.
Osceola County, Led by District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry, to Host 4th Annual ‘Chalk Away Hate’ Anti-Bullying Event on November 9
On Saturday, November 9, 2024, parents and students from Osceola County are invited to the 4th Annual Anti-Bullying “Chalk Away Hate” event held from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Celebration High School. Hosted by District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry and the Salvation Army, this glow-in-the-dark event aims to promote kindness, inclusion, and positivity.
With over $25,000 in free raffle prizes such as laptops, Apple Watches, Switches, and scooters, participants will have a chance to win while enjoying the festivities.
Attendees can also expect special appearances from TikTok artists and Instagram stars, with Athena Choudhry and Major Ken Chapman serving as special emcees for the event.
For more information, or to arrange bus transportation, attendees can contact Commissioner Peggy Choudhry’s office at (407) 742-2387 or by email at 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 Tonight at 6pm
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and tonight, 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 Unveils New 6.9-Mile Fortune Lakeshore Trail, Expanding Its 200-Mile Master Trail Network
Osceola County celebrated the official opening of a new 6.9-mile multi-use recreational trail on Tuesday, adding a significant link to the County’s expansive 200mile Master Trail Network. The Fortune Lakeshore Trail, which runs along Fortune Road and Lakeshore Boulevard, offers residents and visitors an enhanced, safe, and scenic route for walking, cycling, and commuting.
The 10 to 12 feet wide trail includes the restriping of 11 existing crosswalks, the installation of five new crosswalks, and the construction of a 145-foot pedestrian bridge over the C-31 Canal. The path connects Fortune Road from US 192 to Lakeshore Boulevard and continues along Lakeshore Boulevard to Columbia Avenue, providing a continuous and convenient route for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Fortune Lakeshore Trail is expected to boost recreational opportunities while promoting eco-friendly commuting options, aligning with Osceola County’s vision of a comprehensive, interconnected trail network for its growing population.
Osceola County Commission Chair Cheryl Grieb was joined by District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer and a host of dignitaries at ribbon cutting ceremonies lauding completion of the Trail.
Experience Kissimmee Marks a Decade of Transforming Osceola County into a Leading Global Travel Destination
Experience Kissimmee recently marked its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of success built on its core values of fostering partnerships, embracing innovation, and fueling tourism growth in Osceola County. Since its founding as the county’s tourism authority, Experience Kissimmee has played a pivotal role in transforming the area into a premier global destination.
In 2024 alone, EK helped attract more than 10.4 million visitors, underscoring its impact on both the local economy and the broader tourism industry. By championing collaboration and forward-thinking strategies, Experience Kissimmee continues to shape the future of Osceola County as a world-class travel hotspot.
‘Welcome Home Vietnam’ Event to Honor Vietnam War Veterans at Museum of Military History November 2
The Museum of Military History in Kissimmee, will host the “Welcome Home Vietnam” event on Saturday, November 2. This special event is a tribute to Vietnam War veterans, offering a day of celebration, commemoration, and respect for their service.
The free event will feature veteran resources, vendors, and museum tours from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Attendees can explore exhibits and engage with vendors providing valuable resources for veterans and the community.
Osceola County to Host Public Meeting Tonight at 5:30pm on Sunbridge Parkway Extension Corridor Evaluation
Osceola County will hold a Public Meeting regarding the Alternative Corridor Evaluation (ACE) for the extension of Sunbridge Parkway in northeast Osceola County, Florida, tonight at 5;30pm. Osceola County is offering multiple ways for the community to participate in the meeting. All participants, regardless of which platform they choose, will receive the same information.
The Public Meeting is being held to present information and solicit community feedback on alternative corridors for the Sunbridge Parkway Extension Project, a new roadway proposed to connect Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway (US 192), the southern Project limit, to Nova Road (CR 532), the northern Project limit. It is anticipated to be a four-lane divided roadway accommodating pedestrians and bicyclists.
Prepare for Screams: St. Cloud’s Spine-Chilling Trail of Terror Set to Scare the Community Again This Weekend
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 thrillseekers in the community.
The Trail of Terror will continue weekend: Friday October 25, and Saturday 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.
PARK HOPPING
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.
Universal Orlando Announces Epic Universe Opening Date: May 22, 2025, with Five Immersive Worlds and Groundbreaking Attractions READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3A6Yebr
Experience Guy Harvey Weekend at SeaWorld Orlando
This November 15-16
SeaWorld Orlando has announced the return of Guy Harvey Weekend on November 15-16, 2024, offering fans and conservation enthusiasts an exclusive chance to meet the renowned marine wildlife artist, scientist, and conservationist, Guy Harvey.
During this special weekend, guests can interact with Guy Harvey, known for his captivating oceanthemed artwork and commitment to marine conservation. The event will feature opportunities for autographs, photos, and discussions with Harvey about his efforts to preserve ocean life. In addition to meeting Guy Harvey, visitors can explore various exhibits highlighting marine conservation efforts and purchase exclusive Guy Harvey merchandise, including art and apparel.
Early Voting Begins Today, October 21 for
Early voting kicks off across Osceola County today, Monday, October 21, 2024. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity at one of the nine locations throughout the county to cast their ballots ahead of the November 5 general election day, avoiding long lines and ensuring their voices are heard at convenient locations open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Sunday November 3.
Early Voting Locations Include: Supervisor of Elections Office, West Osceola Branch Library (Celebration), Robert Guevara Community Center, St. Cloud Civic Center, Kissimmee Civic Center, The Gym & Aquatic Center, Narcoossee Community Center, Tax Collector (Campbell City Branch), Osceola Welcome Center.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Volunteers Mobilize for Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
Over 6,100 volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from the Southeastern United States arrived in Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina to help homes and houses of worship affected by Hurricane Helene. Among them were 93 volunteers from the St. Cloud Florida Stake in Osceola County who served residents in Lake City, Florida.
In their trademark yellow shirts and vests, volunteers cleared debris, mucked out homes, and brought hope with them everywhere they served.
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
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
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.
