Osceola County Urges Residents in Vulnerable Areas to
TRAFFIC LIGHTS OFF: Osceola Sheriff’s
as Hurricane Milton
Osceola County Emergency Shelters Open Ahead of Hurricane Milton
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
Gateway Panthers Get Defensive in Shutout Over Liberty Chargers
Gateway’s defense held Liberty to just 43 net yards in registering a 24-0 win over the Chargers during a rare Wednesday night game in Osceola County, that was moved from Thursday due to approaching Hurricane Helene.
“Really, we did?” Gateway coach Marlin Roberts said when asked about his team shutting out an opponent for a third time in their last four games. “To tell you the truth, I doubt our guys even realize that. We do not have many seniors or juniors on this team, but the ones we do, have not seen a lot of success or wins over the last couple seasons. Even if they did realize they got another shutout tonight, I can promise you they are a lot happier with the win.”
Osceola County Sports Teams Looking For Edge As District Play Opens This Week
With seven classifications consisting of 16 teams each in four different regions, most football districts in the state of Florida are small – consisting of between 3-5 teams. With an automatic bid to the state playoffs reserved for each of the 16 district champions, each district game becomes vitally important.
For the five teams in Osceola County participating in the system, that journey to state playoffs begins this week as all will play their first district games of the season. “If you want to get to the state playoffs, winning your district is the absolute most important goal of the season,” St. Cloud head coach Mike Short said at the beginning of pre-season camp. “Although there are at-large spots available, you don’t want to put your fate in the hands of computer rankings.”
Bulldogs Fall Short in Comeback after Mustangs’
Interception Seals the Win in Overtime
Merritt Island’s Liam Miller booted three field goals and Courtland Campbell came up with a huge interception in the end zone, as the Mustangs slipped out of St. Cloud with a 26-23 overtime win on Friday night.
The loss, the third straight for St. Cloud (2-3), was a bitter pill to swallow as the Bulldogs rallied from a double digit deficit to take the lead in the game – only to see the Mustangs (4-1) rally in the final minute to tie the game with a Miller field goal and then win it in overtime.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ZsWRy8
NEWS
Boating with Brandon Episode 5: Streaming Thursday
Morning with Special Guest Valencia College President Dr. Kathleen Plinske
“Boating with Brandon,” the inspirational 10-part video series hosted by District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington, returns with its fifth episode, promising another immersive adventure exploring and featuring Osceola County’s beautiful waterways. This series 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 beauty of Cypress Lake in Osceola County, guided by Wild Florida's Co-owner Sam Haught. The journey on Cypress Lake promises breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and insightful discussions about environmental conservation and community engagement.
Joining Commissioner Arrington is Valencia College President Dr. Kathleen Plinske. Together, they discuss the transformative impact of Osceola Prosper, an initiative that has been empowering Osceola County graduates for three years. Osceola Prosper allows graduates to attend Valencia College to earn an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree or complete one of Valencia College's Accelerated Skills Training or Technical Certificate programs.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/BoatingBrandonEp5
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.
Toho Water Authority Announces Office Closures and Emergency Plans Ahead of Hurricane Milton
In preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Milton, Toho Water Authority has announced that its offices will be closed starting today, Wednesday, October 9, with closures expected to last throughout the storm. The Authority is also enacting emergency response measures to ensure service continuity and safety for all residents during the hurricane. Toho will continue to respond to water-related emergencies as long as conditions are safe to do so.
Store tap water
As part of a hurricane plan, households should have enough water to last them and their pets at least three days.
• Potable water: Tap water can be stored in clean containers with lids. This water can be used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth and washing dishes. Households should have one gallon of potable water per person per day for at least days. Consider freezing some containers or food storage bags to help keep food cold while providing water if needed.
• Non-potable water: Your household will also need water for flushing toilets, bathing and any other way you use water that does not involve food preparation or ingestion. Fill up a bathtub (make sure the drain doesn’t leak), large container or clean trash can with tap water.
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.
Osceola County Urges Residents in Vulnerable Areas to Finalize Shelter Plans
The track of Hurricane Milton has shifted south and puts some areas of Osceola County in line for increased rainfall (10-15 inches of rain), making life-threatening flash flooding and flooding in our urban areas possible.
Residents living in low-lying, flood-prone areas, mobile and manufactured homes, or homes with potential structural issues should plan to seek alternate shelter before noon today, Wednesday, October 9.
Public shelters in Osceola County open at 8 a.m. today; special needs shelters for individuals with enhanced medical needs are currently open. Individuals headed to a shelter must bring bedding, including blankets, sleeping bags, or pillows. It is also recommended to bring books, quiet games, and battery-powered radios. Those on prescription medication should bring adequate supplies with them. Individuals should not bring perishable food items; food will be provided.
For more information, visit our website: https://osceolafl.co/shelterinfo, or contact the Citizens Information Center at 407-742-0000, available 24/7.
As Hurricane Milton approaches, Osceola County has opened multiple emergency shelters for residents seeking a safe refuge. While no mandatory evacuations are currently in effect, residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas, or homes with potential structural issues, are advised to prepare evacuation plans. The following shelters will open on Wednesday, October 9, at 8 a.m.: Celebration High School, Gateway High School (Pet-Friendly), Harmony High School (Pet-Friendly), Holopaw Community Center, Kenansville Community Center, Kissimmee Middle School (Pet-Friendly), Liberty High School (Pet-Friendly).
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.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS OFF: Osceola Sheriff’s Office Urges
Caution as Hurricane Milton Approaches
As major Hurricane Milton continues its approach toward Osceola County, residents should be prepared for widespread power outages that could affect daily activities, including road safety. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Marcos R. Lopez, has issued an important reminder to all motorists: If a traffic light is non-functional, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
This safety measure is crucial to preventing accidents as many traffic signals may go out due to potential power disruptions caused by the hurricane. Sheriff Lopez emphasized the need for all drivers to stay vigilant, drive carefully, and follow this rule to ensure public safety on the roads.
Osceola Air Introduces Affordable Family Comfort Club Plan for Just $14 a Month
Osceola Air has announced its Residential Family Comfort Club (FCC) Plan, offering customers the opportunity to maintain their HVAC systems at peak efficiency with exclusive benefits. The plan ensures that homeowners have access to topnotch services from highly trained technicians, who will perform precision tune-ups twice a year, keeping HVAC systems running smoothly.
What’s included in the Family Comfort Club Plan?
Members of the Family Comfort Club can enjoy several exclusive benefits, such as:
• No weekend or after-hours fees
• Guaranteed 24-hour response to any service calls
Stay Safe and Informed with Alert Osceola as Hurricane Milton Approaches Central Florida
As Hurricane Milton moves closer to Osceola County and Central Florida, staying informed through Alert Osceola is essential. Osceola County Commissioners, Peggy Choudhry District 1, Viviana Janer District 2, Brandon Arrington District 3, Cheryl Grieb District 4, and Ricky Booth District 5, are encouraging residents and visitors to stay informed and connected by signing up for Alert Osceola. This Emergency Alert Program ensures you receive critical information quickly and directly, keeping you updated on severe weather, road closures, missing persons, evacuations, and other community emergencies. By registering for Alert Osceola, you can tailor how and where you receive timesensitive notifications. Options include receiving alerts via your home, mobile, or business phone, as well as email, text messages, and more. This flexibility ensures you stay informed whether you’re at home, work, or on the go.
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
Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe 2025: A Faith-Filled Weekend of Powerful Music, Worship, and Thrills
Universal Orlando’s Rock the Universe, Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, is returning to Universal Studios Florida on January 24 and 25, 2025. This unforgettable weekend will feature powerful performances by some of today’s most popular Christian artists. Guests can now purchase tickets to the faith-filled event, which will include headline performances by GRAMMY award-winning singer Brandon Lake, Billboard Christian chart-topper Forrest Frank, Dove award-winning Bethel Music, American Music Award-winning Matthew West, and more. Below is the complete Rock the Universe 2025 concert lineup.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3zk9ZLp
Kissimmee Utility Authority’s 2024 Osceola Hurricane Guide is a free, bilingual, and comprehensive preparedness guide offered annually to Osceola County resident that provides a clear and simple way to ensure you and your family are well-prepared for potential severe weather in and around Osceola County.
Heart of Florida United Way’s 211 Line Ready to Support Communities as Hurricane Milton Approaches
As Hurricane Milton barrels toward Florida as a potentially catastrophic storm, Heart of Florida United Way’s 211 Information & Referral Crisis Line is on high alert, prepared to support residents with essential services during and after the storm. With 211 operating 24/7, it is a lifeline for those seeking critical resources such as shelter locations, emergency housing, disaster relief, and emotional support to navigate the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton.
Since 2006, Heart of Florida United Way’s 211 service has connected individuals and families to health and human services across 14 Florida counties. The service is free, confidential, and accessible by dialing 211, texting your zip code to 898211, or visiting their online chat service.
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.
Positively Delicious Hearty Harvest: Florida Chicken, Sweet Potato & Kale Salad
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.
Experience Positively Delicious Pan-Seared Florida Culotte Steak
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.
Positively Delicious Savory Sensations: Florida Chicken, Mushroom & Bacon Melt
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.
