Honoring Heroes: St. Cloud’s Veterans 5K Ruck Raises Funds for Veterans Support
Experience
on December 7!
Understanding the Difference: Veterans Day vs. Memorial Day – Honoring All Who Served This Monday on Veterans Day
Featured Videos
Kick Off the Holidays with ICE! at Gaylord Palms, Opening November 15 in Kissimmee
Holiday Magic at St. Cloud’s 61st Annual Christmas Parade
Big Cat Sip & Stroll: Fall Collection – An Event to Savor at Central Florida Animal Reserve Sunday November 17
St. Cloud Veterans Celebration Honors History with New Historical Marker at Veterans Park
Osceola Kowboys Gear Up for Football Playoffs, While Cross Country and Golf Teams Compete at State Championships
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
Honoring Heroes: St. Cloud’s Veterans 5K Ruck Raises Funds for Veterans Support
On Saturday, the St. Cloud Police Department, led by Police Chief Doug Goerke, hosted the annual Veterans Day 5K Ruck, which kicked off from St. Cloud VFW Post 3227 on New York Avenue. The event attracted participants from across the community, including Chief Goerke, who joined participants on the ruck, demonstrating his team’s dedication to supporting local veterans and fostering community unity.
The 5K route led participants from the VFW post through downtown St. Cloud, weaving through historic state streets, before circling back to the starting point. This ruck was not only a chance to honor Veterans Day but also an opportunity to gather the community in support of veterans and raise funds for a cause that matters deeply to St. Cloud, the McCormick Research Institute.
Kick Off the Holidays with ICE! at Gaylord Palms, Opening November 15 in Kissimmee
Starting November 15, Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee is bringing back its signature winter event, ICE!, as part of the beloved Christmas at Gaylord Palms celebration. This year, guests can once again immerse themselves in a holiday wonderland featuring incredible ice sculptures, thrilling holiday activities, and festive entertainment.
Crafted from over two million pounds of ice, the larger-than-life sculptures and displays are hand-carved by skilled artisans and showcase scenes from classic holiday stories and winter landscapes. Set within a stunning, snowglobe-inspired exhibit, the ICE! attraction is maintained at a brisk 9°F, so guests are encouraged to bundle up to fully enjoy the frosty spectacle.
In addition to ICE!, Gaylord Palms’ holiday celebration features a lineup of familyfriendly activities, including live holiday shows, interactive experiences, and the opportunity to meet Santa. Other highlights include seasonal shopping, themed dining options, and the dazzling nightly light show that fills the resort atrium with holiday cheer.
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.”
Osceola Kowboys Gear Up for Football Playoffs, While Cross Country and Golf Teams Compete at State Championships
After an uncharacteristic early exit from the football playoffs last year, Osceola finds itself in position for a deep run when the 2024 FHSAA post-season kicks off this Friday night.
The Kowboys, 8-2 overall and the number two seed in Class 6A, Region 2, will host Viera in a first round regional quarterfinal at 7 p.m. on Friday night at Markus Paul Stadium. Tohopekaliga (6-4) also rallied to make the playoffs and will travel to number two seed Dr. Phillips (9-1) in a Class 7A, Region 3 quarterfinal, also at 7 p.m. Friday night.
The Kowboys will enter the post-season well-rested and on a roll. Ever since a heartbreaking 34-28 overtime loss to Jones on Sept.19, Osceola had won five games in a row –including victories over highly rated Apopka and Lake Wales.
Osceola’s game with Viera (4-6) will be a rematch of a district game that Osceola won on the road, 49-9 on Oct. 15. “It’s really hard to beat a team twice in one season,” Kowboys head coach Eric Pinellas said. “And our guys know that and are not going to take this game lightly. They (Viera) have some really good players and they moved the ball against us in that first game both through the air and on the ground.”
Understanding the Difference: Veterans Day vs. Memorial Day – Honoring All Who Served This Monday on Veterans Day
Today, Monday, November 11, is Veterans Day, a holiday dedicated to honoring all individuals who have served in the U.S. military. Unlike Memorial Day, which commemorates those who lost their lives in military service, Veterans Day celebrates all veterans, both living and deceased, who have served honorably.
History of Veterans Day
Veterans Day has its origins in Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I. The armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany, took effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. In 1938, November 11 was made a national holiday to honor World War I veterans. However, after World War II and the Korean War, the day was renamed “Veterans Day” in 1954 to honor American veterans of all wars.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3V9OKUn
Big
Cat Sip & Stroll: Fall Collection – An Event to Savor at Central Florida Animal Reserve Sunday November 17
Experience an unforgettable afternoon of fine wine, majestic big cats, and charitable giving at the Central Florida Animal Reserve’s semi-annual “Big Cat Sip & Stroll: The Fall Collection” on Sunday, November 17, brought to you by Experience Kissimmee.
This unique fundraising event invites attendees to explore the Reserve while supporting the care and conservation of its big cats. Enjoy a perfect fall day filled with the flavors of exquisite wines, light snacks, and the thrill of a silent auction.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48QyfCc
St. Cloud Veterans Celebration Honors History with
New Historical Marker at Veterans Park
St. Cloud’s community gathered at Veterans Park on Saturday for a special Veterans Day celebration, led by St. Cloud Main Street’s Executive Director and recenky re-elected State Representative Paul Stark, to unveil a new historical marker commemorating the park’s storied past.
The event began with a moving presentation of colors by the Osceola Veterans Council, setting a respectful and solemn tone for the occasion. Among the attendees were community members, St. Cloud Mayor-elect and Executive Director of the Museum of Military History Chris Robertson, St. Cloud Council Member Seat 2-elect Jennifer Paul, and McCormick Research Institute CEO Eric Davidson, all coming together to honor local veterans and recognize the importance of this historic site.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4hLtHkG
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.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4gO9QAH
PARK HOPPING
Experience the Wondrous Magic of SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration Starting November 16
Get ready for the magic of the season as SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration returns from November 16 to January 5! This festive event transforms the park into a winter wonderland, featuring stunning decorations, enchanting shows, and a variety of holiday treats.
Visitors can enjoy the spectacular Sea of Trees show, where thousands of twinkling lights dance to holiday music, creating a mesmerizing experience on the lagoon. The celebration also features beloved holiday characters, including Santa and his reindeer, offering photo opportunities and delightful interactions for families. Enjoy our Signature Shows during SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration! Please check the show schedules for performance dates.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3YyglPI
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
PARK HOPPING
Experience the Magic of the Holidays: Enchanting Festivities for All Ages at Walt Disney World!
As Mickey Mouse and all his pals prepare for the most wonderful time of the year, Walt Disney World Resort begins the process of transforming into a whimsical wonderland for the holiday season. Here’s an overview of the special, daytime experiences guests can enjoy this holiday season. Experience the Magic of the Holidays at Magic Kingdom Park
Merrymaking comes alive at Magic Kingdom Park starting Nov. 12, with seasonal decorations lining Main Street, U.S.A., and themed food and drink items at select locations throughout the park! There’s plenty of holiday cheer to be spread.
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
2024
Healthcare Open Enrollment Period Begins Today: Explore Your Coverage Options
Today marks the start of the 2024 Healthcare Open Enrollment Period, running from November 1, 2024, through January 15, 2025. This annual enrollment window allows Americans to secure or update their health insurance plans, providing coverage options tailored to a variety of needs. To ensure uninterrupted coverage by January 1, enrollees should sign up or make changes by December 15, 2024.
Health Insurance Options Based on Your Needs
The Marketplace offers a range of coverage levels and plans, each designed to meet different health and financial needs:
1. Bronze Plans: Ideal for those looking for lower premiums, these plans cover basic needs and are well-suited for individuals who expect minimal healthcare use.
2. Silver Plans: Offering a balance between premiums and out-of-pocket costs, Silver plans are beneficial for people who want moderate coverage and may qualify for additional cost-sharing reductions.
3. Gold and Platinum Plans: With higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs, these plans are perfect for individuals or families who expect regular medical care and want a greater portion of costs covered by insurance.
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.
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.
