Early Learning Coalition Opens Interactive LearnHub at Hart Memorial Library in Kissimmee
Chairwoman Viviana Janer Brings Holiday Cheer with Free Meal Distribution in Kissimmee
St. Cloud Police Bring Holiday Smiles and Joy at Annual Shop with a Cop Event Featured Videos
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Performs First Life-Saving Pulmonary Thrombectomy
South Florida Water Management District and Partners Complete 7,000-Acre Water Quality Project in Osceola County
Ring in 2025 with St. Cloud’s Rockin’ the Cloud: Music, Food, and Family Fun for All!
Osceola Chamber to Host 20th Annual Three Kings Day Celebration at Old Town Kissimmee January 5
ON DEMAND LIVESTREAMS
LIVE with City of St. Cloud’s Special Event Manager Rose Testerman
November 21st, 2024
LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office
November 20th, 2024
LIVE with Maryemma Bachelder, Director of Communications with the City of St. Cloud
November 15th, 2024
LIVE in the City of St. Cloud to swear in new Mayor Chris Robertson, Council Member Jennifer A. Paul, and Council Member Kolby Urban
November 14th, 2024
LIVE with Mayor of Kissimmee, Jackie Espinosa
November 6th, 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 in the City of St. Cloud to swear in new Mayor Chris Robertson, Council
Member Jennifer A. Paul, and Council Member Kolby Urban
LIVE at St. Cloud Levee Liquor & Gas
Unveiling New Mural Part of Osceola Arts in Public Places
LIVE at the 12th Annual State of Osceola County
IN & AROUND OSCEOLA
LIVE as St. Cloud Honors Veterans and Reveals New Historical Marker
LIVE with Randy Booth, Big Boss with the Silver Spurs Rodeo
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
Holiday Cheer Meets Film Noir: Don’t Miss Osceola Arts’
A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol this December!
Following the sold-out success of Jersey Boys, Osceola Arts is gearing up for another highly anticipated production: A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol. Running from December 6 through December 22, 2024, this festive show promises to deliver holiday cheer with classic tunes, original songs, and a nostalgic twist. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic—tickets are expected to go fast!
Set on Christmas Eve, 1943, this production takes you back in time with the Feddington Players, who bring a unique twist to Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” during a chaotic live radio broadcast in Newark, NJ.
The story takes a dramatic turn when William St. Claire, a veteran actor but newcomer to radio, faces a personal crisis on air, blending his life story with Dickens’s tale. The cast improvises through various mishaps, leading to a suspenseful, film noirinspired finale that promises plenty of mystery, humor, and heartfelt moments.
A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol, featuring original songs by Faye Greenberg and David Wohl (of High School Musical fame), also includes swing versions of beloved Christmas classics. The show offers a perfect mix of drama, comedy, and holiday cheer for the entire family.
Ring in 2025 with St. Cloud’s Rockin’ the Cloud: Music, Food, and Family Fun Await
The City of St. Cloud is gearing up for its signature Rockin’ the Cloud New Year’s Eve celebration, promising a night of unforgettable entertainment and community spirit in Downtown St. Cloud.
This year’s event will feature local favorite Slickwood as the headlining musical act, bringing their unique sound to the heart of the celebration. In addition to Slickwood, the downtown area will showcase numerous other musical acts, creating a festive atmosphere filled with live performances to suit all tastes.
Guests can also look forward to delicious food from local vendors, family-friendly fun, and the vibrant energy of downtown St. Cloud’s restaurants and bars. The evening’s highlight will be the Midnight Countdown and Cloud Drop, a St. Cloud tradition that puts a hometown twist on the classic ball drop, welcoming 2025 in style.
Rockin’ the Cloud is presented by the City of St. Cloud and proudly sponsored by OUC, Experience Kissimmee, and Toho Water Authority. This highly anticipated event offers something for everyone, making it the perfect way to celebrate the New Year with friends and family.
Early Learning Coalition Opens Interactive LearnHub at Hart Memorial Library in Kissimmee
The Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County celebrated a major educational milestone on Monday with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Early LearnHub at the Hart Memorial Library in downtown Kissimmee. The Early LearnHub is a stateof-the-art learning installation designed to provide free, interactive educational opportunities for children in underserved areas of Osceola County.
Located at 211 E. Dakin Avenue, the LearnHub features engaging spaces for children of all ages, including an infant and toddler area, a hands-on STEAM room, and a colorful interactive wall wrap that celebrates Kissimmee’s natural beauty.
Local leaders and community advocates, including Early Learning Coalition CEO Amanda Kelkenberg, Osceola County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb, State Senator Kristen Arrington, State Representative Erika Booth, and Tiffany Jeffers of the Black Empowerment Council, gathered to mark the occasion.
Speaking at the event, Early Learning Coaltion Amanda Kelkenberg emphasized the importance of community-driven educational initiatives. “The most powerful learning experiences for young children do not always happen in a classroom,” Kelkenberg said. “Early LearnHubs create access for all families to make the most of everyday moments with their children.”
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/49KkSUu
SPORTS
St. Cloud Bulldogs Stun Lake Highland 59-58 Behind Ryan Rodriguez’s Last-Second Game-Winning Layup
Ryan Rodriguez’s lay-up with 1.9 seconds left gave the St. Cloud a 59-58 upset win over Lake Highland Prep and kept the gritty Bulldogs (5-0) undefeated on the season.
The win appeared an unlikely one for the Bulldogs, who were in danger of getting blown out in the second half. St. Cloud trailed by four at the half and then watched the Highlanders go on a 12-0 run to start the third quarter and pull out to a 36-20 lead.
But Rodriguez would score 13 of his game-high 24 in the final five minutes of the third period to keep St. Cloud in the game, as the Dogs trailed 44-34 with eight minutes remaining.
Although Rodriguez scored three quick buckets to open the fourth, Lake Highland was able to maintain a 4-6 point lead for most of the final stanza.
RJ Ingram was fouled on a layup and completed the three-point play to push the lead to 54-47 with just over three minutes to go. But the Bulldogs kept fighting back. A Diomar Ortiz three pointer made it 54-50 and after St. Cloud forced a turnover, Malaki Baker nailed a three from the right corner to cut the lead to 54-53 with 1:20 remaining.
https://bit.ly/3D8rP5j
Jamie Merrill, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, Named Osceola Magic Game Changer
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida President & CEO, Jamie Merrill, was recently honored as a Community Game Changer by the Osceola Magic during their November 10 game against the Austin Spurs. The award recognizes her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting Central Florida's youth and families.
"I am honored to receive the Community Game Changer award from the Osceola Magic,” Merrill said. “This recognition reflects not just my efforts, but the collective commitment of our dedicated team at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. Together, we are making a meaningful impact in the lives of our youth and families. I am grateful for the support of our community, including partners like the Osceola Magic, and inspired to continue our mission of empowering the next generation."
Since taking the helm as BGCCF President just 18 months ago, Merrill has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have significantly expanded the organization's reach. These efforts include the opening of a new Club in Osceola County, the groundbreaking of a new facility in Winter Garden, and the expansion of the MAGIC of Literacy program, which now serves youth across the entire organization.
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Performs First
Life-Saving Pulmonary Thrombectomy
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has reached a medical milestone with the successful completion of its first percutaneous pulmonary thrombectomy, a life-saving procedure used to remove dangerous blood clots from the pulmonary artery.
The groundbreaking procedure was performed by Dr. Prakrut Patel, MD, FACC, and the cardiac catheterization laboratory team on Barbara Gilbert, a 74-year-old St. Cloud resident. Using a minimally invasive technique, the team utilized a small needle and catheter, guided by X-ray, to extract a six-inch blood clot from Gilbert’s lung.
Gilbert had been diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism, a condition caused by blood clots traveling from the lower extremities to the lungs via the heart. Pulmonary embolism affects approximately 900,000 Americans annually, according to the American Lung Association, and is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death in the United States.
“Pulmonary embolism is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death, which is why a thrombectomy needs to be performed quickly and efficiently,” Dr. Patel said. “Patients in our community can now receive this crucial treatment at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and possibly recover at home within a few days.”
Experience Kissimmee and Celebration Brewing Launch Citrus Kiss Beer to Support Healthy Start Coalition of Osceola
Yesterday, Experience Kissimmee and Celebration Brewing unveiled Citrus Kiss, a unique, limited-edition sour beer inspired by the vibrant flavors of Kissimmee and Osceola County. This first-of-its-kind collaboration highlights the region’s zest for life while giving back to the community.
A portion of the proceeds from Citrus Kiss will be donated to the Healthy Start Coalition of Osceola County, a non-profit committed to improving maternal and child health by reducing infant mortality, preterm births, and low birth weight.
“This partnership exemplifies what Experience Kissimmee stands for: supporting our community while promoting the unique charm of our region,” said DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee, during the event.
Chairwoman Viviana Janer Brings Holiday Cheer with Free Meal Distribution in Kissimmee
Osceola County Chairwoman Viviana Janer (District 2) is inviting residents to a Free Holiday Meal Distribution on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at Archie Gordon Memorial Park, 420 Buenaventura Blvd. in Kissimmee. The event begins at 10 a.m. and will continue until supplies last.
This special drive-thru event offers a complimentary pork shoulder and holiday meal essentials, to help local families during the festive season who might be experiencing food insecurity.
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.
The holiday spirit was alive and well last night as the St. Cloud Police Department hosted its annual Shop with a Cop event at the St. Cloud Walmart. Over 25 officers, including Police Chief Doug Goerke, escorted children through the aisles, helping them select Christmas gifts during a heartwarming evening filled with smiles and joy.
The event, supported by the nonprofit organization We Dare to Care, provided an opportunity for children in need to experience the magic of the season alongside their local heroes. Officers paired with kids to pick out gifts, creating special memories that will last a lifetime. St. Cloud Police Bring Holiday Smiles and Joy at Annual Shop with a Cop Event
Disney Treasure Sets Sail: Disney’s Newest Cruise Ship to Bring Adventure and
Storytelling to the High Seas
In a dazzling celebration filled with Disney magic, the Disney Treasure was officially christened, marking a new chapter for Disney Cruise Line’s fleet. The spectacular event featured stunning pyrotechnics, drone displays, and a heartfelt tribute to the Cast Members who bring Disney stories to life every day.
“For more than 100 years, Disney stories have filled the world with joy and wonder, capturing the hearts and imaginations of generations across every continent,” said Bob Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “Since the launch of the Disney Cruise Line in 1998, our ships have become brand ambassadors that bring our world-class storytelling and the immersive nature of our theme parks to new audiences in new places all over the world.”
PARK HOPPING
SeaWorld Orlando Unveils World’s First Arctic Flying Theater, Opening Spring 2025
SeaWorld Orlando unveiled plans for its latest groundbreaking attraction planned to open in Spring 2025: the World’s firstof-its-kind Arctic flying theater. This new experience invites families to soar over icy landscapes, dive beneath frozen waters and come face-to-face with some of the planet’s most magnificent creatures.
From majestic beluga whales to awe-inspiring orcas and walruses, this adventure puts riders right in the middle of the action. It’s also all indoors, so rain or shine, this attraction guarantees a cool, thrilling escape for the entire family all year round.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4fSvjHj
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.
South Florida Water Management District and Partners
Complete
7,000-Acre
Water Quality Project in Osceola County
On Monday, the South Florida Water Management District, in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Garcia Land Management, LLC, and numerous local, state, and federal partners, celebrated the completion of the El Maximo Ranch Northern Everglades Water Quality Project in Osceola County, a 7,000acre effort aimed at reducing nutrient pollution in Lake Okeechobee.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/49Oo8hK
City of St. Cloud to Host Free Elf-Themed Holiday Movie Night at Hopkins Park Friday Night
The City of St. Cloud invites residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday season with a FREE Holiday Movie in the Park, featuring the movie classic Elf. The event will take place on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Hopkins Park, located at 620 E. 17th Street.
The community is encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy a cozy, festive evening under the stars with family, friends, and neighbors. The movie will begin at sunset, around 6:15 p.m., when the park transforms into a cinematic winter wonderland.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3OVxJK3
Prepare Your Home for Cooler Days with Osceola Air’s Family Comfort Club Plan
As the summer heat in Central Florida begins to fade and fall arrives, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler days ahead. Before the holiday gatherings and festivities begin, consider a professional HVAC inspection from Osceola Air, a trusted, licensed, and insured local contractor.
Osceola Air is now offering its Residential Family Comfort Club (FCC) Plan—a hasslefree way to keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency, with exclusive benefits to ensure your home remains comfortable year-round.
Osceola Chamber to Host 20th Annual Three Kings Day Celebration at Old Town Kissimmee January 5
The Osceola Chamber will host the 20th Annual Three Kings Day Osceola Celebration on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Old Town in Kissimmee, presented by AdventHealth, brought to you by Experience Kissimmee.
This annual tradition unites the community in a joyous celebration of Three Kings Day, or Día de los Reyes, offering a vibrant day filled with culture, generosity, and festive cheer.
Rooted in rich Latin folklore, Three Kings Day commemorates the journey of the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the Christ Child. For many, especially children, this day is filled with excitement, as they anticipate gifts and treats brought by the Three Kings.
HEALTH
Orlando Health: Unexpected Reasons to Cut Back on Drinking This Holiday Season
The dangers of alcohol often go unmentioned during the holiday season—or perhaps all year—but this is precisely when the conversation matters most. Even moderate drinkers in America increase their alcohol consumption by as much as 27% during this time of year, with one in five admitting to drinking daily on their days off.
Nutritionists will tell you there are no “bad” foods. But there are better and worse choices. One issue with holiday drinking is saving up calories in order to consume excessive amounts of alcohol later. The problem with hoarding calories is that you are forgoing vitamins, minerals and water your body needs — and you’ll be picking up plenty of sugar with those drinks.
The other big concern is behavioral. Humans are creatures of habit, and it doesn’t take us long — as little as two months — to form a new one. For many folks, the merrymaking rolls from October through December, plenty of time to form new habits you might be sorry to carry into the new year. Another reason to slow down on your drinking: the risk of cancer. More on that later.
HEALTH
Prostate Wellness: Dietary Choices from Orlando Health That Make a Difference
Eating right can keep your heart, digestion and brain functioning properly, but did you know a healthy diet can help your prostate, too? While there are certain factors outside of your control that affect prostate health, such as your age and family history, making healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent prostate problems.
Why Prostate Health Matters
An important part of a man’s reproductive system, the prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate produces fluid that contains enzymes, minerals and proteins that nourish and transport sperm.
Maintaining prostate health is important for men of all ages, but as you get older and risk increases for complications like incontinence, sexual dysfunction and prostate cancer, it’s even more essential.
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.
