Osceola Daily News, Osceola County's Leading and Trusted Source For Local News
Lady Kowboys Advance to State Final Four After Dominating Win over Vero Beach
Early Voting Continues this Week 8am –8pm for the November 5 General Election
Osceola County Launches New, UserFriendly Website to Improve Access for Residents and Businesses
Celebration Returns: November 22 –December 31, Featuring Harry Potter,
and
Experience Holiday Magic at St. Cloud’s 61st Annual Christmas Parade on December 7!
Kissimmee to Host 2025 Beach Dodgeball World Cup at Island H2O Water Park in April
Grinchmas,
Macy’s Parade
Join KUA for a Free Family Movie Night in the Park Featuring Despicable Me 4!
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
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.
Experience Holiday Magic at St. Cloud’s 61st Annual Christmas Parade on December 7!
The St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce and the City of St. Cloud, in collaboration with Experience Kissimmee, will present the 61st Annual Christmas Parade, sponsored by Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, on Saturday, December 7. This year’s theme, “Toys on Parade,” promises a festive celebration filled with holiday spirit and fun for the whole family.
Stepping off at 10 a.m., the parade will wind through Downtown St. Cloud, featuring colorful floats, festive decorations, marching bands, dance teams, cheerleaders, and an abundance of holiday cheer. Spectators can look forward to entertaining performances and delightful displays that capture the magic of the season.
This family-friendly event will launch the holiday season with smiles, joy, and community pride, welcoming both residents and viewers from afar to join in this festive experience.
Mark your calendars for a joyous morning in Downtown St. Cloud, and get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere of “Toys on Parade.”
St.
Cloud Fire Rescue Unveils New Fire Training Facility with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
The St. Cloud Fire Rescue Department officially opening its new 7,000 square foot fire training classroom facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday. The event was attended by St. Cloud Fire Rescue officials, City of St. Cloud Council members, community members, and other guests.
Located at 3335 Cord Avenue, the new training space will enhance the City’s existing public safety training facility. The facility also offers the growing St. Cloud Fire Rescue Department additional office and conference space, as well as classrooms for up to 100 students. This project represents an investment of $3.7 million in public safety, aimed at the training and certification of local firefighters, new recruits, and fire rescue personnel from across the state.
According to the City of St. Cloud, the state-of-the-art new facility not only strengthens local capabilities but also positions St. Cloud as a central hub for firefighter training in Florida.
SPORTS
From Volleyball to Football to Golf, Osceola County Sports Continues to Roll On Big This Week!
In the sport of volleyball, the Lady Kowboys kept rolling with a pair of victories in regional play last week and are now just one game away from earning a spot in the Final Four in Class 7A. On the football side, Osceola High is in position to secure home field advantage through at least the first two rounds of the FHSAA Class 6A Football Playoffs; while St. Cloud—currently riding a three-game winning streak – finds itself with a chance to secure an at-large playoff bid in 7A Region 3. That’s not all the sports happening however, district competition is scheduled this week in golf and cross country. Here is a look in and around Osceola County High School sports scene:
VOLLEYBALL
Osceola (23-4) will attempt to reach the FHSAA 7A Final Four for a second time in three years and just the second time in school history when it hosts Vero Beach (19-4) in the Region 2 Finals on Wednesday night at 7 p.m.
It will be a battle of the top two seeds in the region.
“Obviously when you get to this stage, every team is pretty good. I don’t know a ton about them as we haven’t played them this year, nor have I seen them in any tournaments this year,” Osceola coach Carrie Palmi said. “From what I understand they are a really tall, athletic team and looking at their schedule they have played some good competition this year with limited losses. The important thing will be for us to play our game.”
SPORTS
Lady Kowboys Advance to State Final Four After Dominating Win over Vero Beach
Osceola’s volleyball team is one game away from playing for their first ever state championship.
The Lady Kowboys earned that right on Wednesday night, recording a 25-22, 25-15, 25-23 straight-set win over Vero Beach to capture the 7A, Region 2 championship.
With the victory, Osceola now advances to the State Final Four, along with Plant, Winter Park and Boca Raton. Those four teams will be reseeded this week and the Kowboys will play in a state semifinal game at Polk State College (Winter Haven) a week from Friday (Nov. 8) at either 4 or 7 p.m. A victory there would put them in the 7A State Championship game at 7 p.m. Saturday.
But for the next day or two, the Kowboys (24-4) will enjoy their second region championship in the last two years – getting past Vero Beach (19-5) without dropping a set. “Its something you always hope for but I wasn’t certainly wasn’t anticipating it,” Osceola coach Carrie Palmi said of the sweep. “They are a big, athletic team and I was ready for a four or five set fight. We got the momentum early, held it through two sets and kept our focus when we needed it in the third.”
SPORTS
With a pair of second place district finishes, the St. Cloud boys and girls golf teams have punched their tickets to the 2024 Class 3A, Region Championship next week.
On Tuesday, the Bulldog boys — led by freshman Arnold Pouncy’s oneunder 71– shot a solid four-over team score of 292 – five shots behind district champion Viera (287) but a comfortable 19 shots ahead of third place Lake Nona (311) to grab the second automatic qualifier spot for next Monday’s (Nov. 4) Regional Championship at Stoneybrook West Golf Club in Orlando.
Kissimmee Utility Authority, in partnership with the City of Kissimmee, will host its free annual Move in the Park event on Friday, Nov. 1 at the Veterans Lawn of Kissimmee Lakefront Park. The movie event is part of KUA’s annual 6-month Movie in the Park series, held on the first Friday of every month, beginning October through March. Activities begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the movie at sunset. Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket.
The event will feature “Despicable Me 4 ,” shown on a giant 50-foot screen. The movie will also feature closed captioning for the hearing impaired. Onsite food trucks will also be available.
Kissimmee to Host 2025 Beach Dodgeball World Cup at Island H2O Water Park in April
Kissimmee is set to make history as it hosts the inaugural 2025 Beach Dodgeball World Cup from April 3-6, welcoming over 600 participants from more than 15 countries and solidifying its status as a premier destination for global sporting events.
World Dodgeball, the sport’s official world governing body, was established in 2013. The first World Cup occurred in Manchester in 2016, the second at Madison Square Garden in New York in 2018, and the third at Cairo in 2022.
Osceola County Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto Launches “Hope Cares Cards” to Help Improve Safety
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.
Magic Open Training Camp with New Roster, Gearing Up for Season Opener on November 8
The Osceola Magic, the NBA G League affiliate of the Orlando Magic, are set to kick off their 2024-25 season preparations with the opening of training camp on Monday, October 28, at the Kia Center. With a roster of 13 players, including two signed to twoway contracts with the Orlando Magic, the team is ready to compete with an exciting mix of new and returning talent.
The roster features a blend of affiliate players, returning rights players, and a recent NBA G League Draft pick. Fans can look forward to watching standouts like Mac McClung and Trevelin Queen, both on two-way contracts, alongside other key players such as Jarrett Culver and Robert Baker II.
PARK HOPPING
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
Celebration Returns: November 22 – December 31, Featuring Harry Potter, Grinchmas, and Macy’s Parade
Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to unwrap a season of thrills, fun and excitement for the whole family with its destinationwide Holidays celebration – beginning Friday, November 22 and running daily through Tuesday, December 31.
As part of admission to the theme parks, guests can enjoy a merry slate of festive experiences inspired by beloved characters and stories – from reveling in the “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, to meeting everyone’s favorite mean, green grouch, the Grinch, during Grinchmas, to watching larger-than-life floats and balloons during Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, and so much more.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3C8DYqI
Osceola County Launches New, User-Friendly Website to Improve Access for Residents and Businesses
Osceola County has officially launched its newly redesigned website, Osceola. org, featuring a more user-friendly interface, faster load times, and improved accessibility. This update aims to significantly enhance the county’s online experience for both residents and businesses. The revamped website streamlines navigation, eliminates unnecessary pages, and upgrades the search functionality, making it easier than ever for users to find the information they need quickly and efficiently.
Early Voting Continues this Week 8am – 8pm for the November 5 General Election
Early voting is underway across Osceola County, running daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Sunday, November 3. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to vote early at any of the nine designated locations across the county. Voting early allows citizens to avoid the potential long lines on Election Day, November 5, and ensures their voices are heard without the rush. Make your plan to vote early and be part of shaping your community’s future.
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), and Osceola Welcome Center.
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.
