Pups and Pints Festival Festival for Pet Lovers and Families Returns to Celebration January 18
St. Cloud Hosts Annual Tree Swap: Turn Your Old Christmas Tree Into a New One!
Free Movie Night with KUA: The Wild Robot to Shine on 50-Foot Screen at Lakefront Park, Friday, January 10
Osceola Magic Open Regular Season with Victory Over College Park Skyhawks
Orlando Health Shares Tips for Making New Year’s Resolutions Stick
Ring in 2025 with St. Cloud’s Rockin’ the Cloud: Music, Food, and Family Fun for All!
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
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Welcomes Lin Lin as Chief Financial Officer, Bringing Nearly 20 Years of Experience
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has named Lin Lin as its new chief financial officer. With nearly 20 years of financial leadership experience, Lin will oversee the hospital’s financial operations, including strategic and capital planning, daily expense monitoring, and key performance indicator analysis.
Lin joined Orlando Health in 2010, bringing a wealth of experience to roles of increasing responsibility. She began as a financial manager and consultant at Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, where she worked for eight years. In 2018, she transitioned to Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center in a similar capacity.
In 2019, Lin was promoted to finance director for corporate financial planning, where she played a critical role in managing COVID-19 financial reporting, forecasting organization-wide needs during the pandemic. Her leadership continued to shine in 2022 when she became finance director for Orlando Health Medical Group, overseeing the financial performance of adult and pediatric service lines.
In 2023, Lin joined Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital as senior director of finance, where she has contributed significantly to the hospital’s growth strategies and service expansions.
Experience Empowerment and Laughter with ‘9 to 5 The Musical’ at Osceola Arts
Get ready to relive the bold spirit of the late 1970s as Osceola Arts brings “9 to 5 The Musical” to the stage. Based on the iconic 1980 film, this lively production features Dolly Parton’s celebrated music and lyrics, paired with Patricia Resnick’s sharp and witty book.
Set to captivate audiences, the story follows three determined female coworkers— Violet, Judy, and Doralee—who have had enough of their sexist, egotistical boss. In an unexpected twist, they devise a wildly imaginative plan to turn the tables on him, resulting in a workplace transformation that’s equal parts empowering and hilarious. Along the way, the trio discovers strength in solidarity, embracing a newfound confidence that changes their lives forever.
Performances begin on Friday, February 28, 2025, and run through Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Osceola Arts in Kissimmee. Special accommodations are available, including an Audio Described performance on Friday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m. and an American Sign Language-interpreted performance on Saturday, March 15, at 2:00 p.m.
Orlando Health Shares Tips for Making New Year’s Resolutions Stick
New year, same resolutions: Lose weight, exercise more, quit smoking. If you vow to make changes every year but never succeed, you need to have a better plan. Setting goals is a great first step, but to transform those goals into permanent lifestyle changes, you need a plan of action. This plan sets realistic expectations and provides the support you’ll need to reach them.
Reframe Your Goal
How you define your goal is important. Nobody “gives up” something they’re attached to, whether you’re ditching cigarettes or daily dessert. And while resolutions such as “start exercising” may sound positive, they lack specifics and a greater motivation. To get the best head start, reframe your goal so that it positively identifies not only what you are seeking to achieve, but how and why.
For example:
• “Stop smoking” becomes “replace smoking with healthy actions that ensure I’ll be a fun grandparent.”
• “Lose weight” becomes “improve my BMI by eating vegetables at every meal and moving my body for 30 minutes every day.”
Osceola Magic Open Regular Season with Victory Over College Park Skyhawks
The Osceola Magic (1-0) tipped off their regular season in style, securing a 115-107 win over the College Park Skyhawks (0-1) on Friday night. Ethan Thompson led the charge for the Magic, delivering a career-best performance with 29 points. Thompson also set new personal highs with eight three-pointers made on 16 attempts, showcasing his sharpshooting abilities.
For the visiting Skyhawks, Dominick Barlow and Keaton Wallace each contributed 20 points. Wallace added a double-double to his night with 10 assists, highlighting his playmaking skills.
The Magic saw strong contributions across the board, with Robert Baker and Mac McClung both recording double-doubles. Baker posted an impressive 21 points and 11 rebounds, while McClung tallied 17 points and a game-high 14 assists, proving pivotal in the team’s victory.
Newly acquired Patrick Gardner made his debut for Osceola, pulling down 10 rebounds in just 14 minutes of action, providing a solid presence on the boards.
St. Cloud Police Captain Curtis Wesler Graduates from Prestigious FBI National Academy
St. Cloud Police Department Captain Curtis Wesler has recently achieved a milestone in his law enforcement career by graduating from the FBI’s esteemed 292nd session of the National Academy. This prestigious 10-week program is renowned for providing advanced training to law enforcement leaders from across the globe, focusing on leadership, ethics, and investigative techniques.
Captain Wesler’s dedication to public service spans more than 20 years with the St. Cloud Police Department. During his tenure, he has held diverse roles, including patrol officer, training unit officer, and street crimes investigator. Currently serving as the Patrol Operations Division Commander, Captain Wesler becomes the second member of the department to complete the National Academy, following Captain Denise Roberts’ graduation in 2023.
“I am proud of Captain Wesler for this incredible achievement,” said Police Chief Douglas Goerke, a 2019 graduate of the FBI National Academy. “He is a dedicated and hardworking officer who constantly demonstrates his commitment to serving the community. His graduation from the FBI National Academy is a testament to his dedication and commitment to excellence.”
Pups and Pints Festival Festival for Pet Lovers and Families Returns to Celebration January 18
Dog lovers and craft beer enthusiasts, mark your calendars for the muchanticipated “Pups and Pints” event, set to take place on Saturday, January 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lakeside Park, located at 851 Celebration Avenue.
This annual festival celebrates all things canine, offering a day filled with live entertainment, popular vendors, engaging contests, and a “watering hole bar” serving a selection of beverages. Whether you’re a pet owner or simply an animal admirer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Pe73Ea
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.”
Addition Financial and Envision Credit Unions Announce Merger to Create $4 Billion Institution
Addition Financial Credit Union and Envision Credit Union have announced plans to merge, creating a unified institution poised to serve members across Central Florida, North Florida, and South Georgia.
Pending approval from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and a membership vote, the combined entity will operate under the Addition Financial Credit Union name, led by current President and CEO Kevin Miller. Once finalized, the merger will establish a credit union with nearly $4 billion in assets and over 248,000 members across 38 branches in two states.
With origins dating back to 1937 and 1954 respectively, Addition Financial, based in Lake Mary, Florida, and Envision Credit Union, headquartered in Tallahassee, share deep-rooted histories as member-focused institutions founded by educators. Over decades, both credit unions have expanded their services to broader communities while maintaining a commitment to exceptional member service.
Ring in 2025 with St. Cloud’s Rockin’ the Cloud: Music, Food, and Family Fun for All!
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.
Free Movie Night with KUA: The Wild Robot to Shine on 50Foot Screen at Lakefront Park, Friday, January 10
Grab your blankets and lawn chairs for a magical night under the stars! On Friday, January 10, Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA), in partnership with the City of Kissimmee, will host a special showing of The Wild Robot at Kissimmee Lakefront Park.
This free, family-friendly event kicks off at 5:30 p.m. with a variety of activities designed to delight attendees of all ages. Guests can enjoy complimentary popcorn, bounce around on inflatable games, unleash their creativity with free activities, and capture memories at the event’s photo booth. Adding to the excitement, KUA will also host prize giveaways throughout the evening.
Mecum Kissimmee 2025:
World’s Largest Collector Car Auction Returns January 7–19
Mecum Auctions is set to host its renowned Kissimmee event from January 7 to 19, 2025, at Osceola Heritage Park. Celebrated as “The World’s Largest Collector Car Auction,” this year’s gathering promises an impressive lineup of approximately 4,500 vehicles, including American muscle cars, classics, Corvettes, trucks, exotics, hot rods, customs, and more.
Several prestigious collections will be showcased, offering attendees a chance to witness and bid on rare and unique automobiles:
• The Double G Collection: This assemblage features exceptional vehicles, including a 1936 Ford Coupe and a 1981 DeLorean, highlighting automotive history’s diversity.
• The Heritage Collection: Celebrating American automotive heritage, this collection includes Fords, Shelbys, a split-window Corvette, a Camaro Z28, and more.
• The Ray Fauber Estate Collection: Dominated by vintage Corvettes and Cadillacs, this collection features low-mileage originals and desirable special editions, all offered at no reserve.
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.
AAA Offers Free ‘Tow to Go’ Service to Help Prevent Impaired Driving Over the Holidays
AAA is helping ensure safe holiday celebrations with the return of its Tow to Go program, offering a free ride and tow for impaired drivers during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. The program is available starting Tuesday, December 24, at 6 p.m., and will run through Thursday, January 2, at 6 a.m.
The Tow to Go service is designed to remove impaired drivers from the road by transporting them and their vehicles to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. It is available to both AAA members and non-members, providing a lifesaving option for those who might otherwise drive under the influence.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3VTJYug
St. Cloud Hosts Annual Tree Swap: Turn Your Old Christmas Tree Into a New One!
As the holiday season wraps up, the City of St. Cloud is encouraging residents to recycle their Christmas trees in a meaningful way. The annual “Don’t Curb it, Swap it!” Tree Swap will take place on Saturday, January 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Peghorn Nature Park, located at 2101 Peghorn Way.
This eco-friendly event offers a unique opportunity for residents to trade in their old, undecorated Christmas trees for a new tree to plant at home. By participating, residents not only recycle their holiday trees but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable community.
The City of St. Cloud invites everyone to take part in this creative and environmentally conscious initiative. For more information about the event, contact 407-957-7243.
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.
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.
