Surfing Santas Make Waves in Cocoa Beach: A 16-Year Holiday Tradition With Over 12,000 Spectators, Sponsored by Orlando Health
Avery, Scarlett, Matthew, and Michael Led Christmas Baby Names in 2023— What Will Top the List This Christmas?
AAA Offers Free ‘Tow to Go’ Service to Help Prevent Impaired Driving Over the Holidays
Featured Videos
Commissioner Brandon Arrington’s Party with Santa Spreads Holiday Cheer to Osceola Families
Ring in 2025 with St. Cloud’s Rockin’ the Cloud: Music, Food, and Family Fun for All!
Merry Christmas, Mega Millions Jackpot Climbs to $1.15 Billion: Fifth Largest in Game History
District One Osceola Commissioner Peggy Choudhry Spreads Holiday Cheer with Toys, Vendors, and Community Fun
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
Commissioner
Brandon Arrington’s Party with Santa Spreads Holiday Cheer to Osceola Families
Families across Osceola County's District 3 gathered at Valencia College’s Poinciana Campus on Saturday for a magical afternoon of holiday festivities at Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington’s annual Party with Santa event. The celebration, held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, brought together community members for an unforgettable day of joy, laughter, and holiday cheer.
The event featured free toys for children, raffle giveaways for adults and students, and an array of activities, including face painting, balloon artistry, and pony rides. Attendees also enjoyed sweet treats and the opportunity to capture cherished holiday photos with Santa Claus.
“This event is all about celebrating the holiday spirit and bringing joy to the community,” Commissioner Arrington said during the festivities. “It’s always amazing to see families come together, especially during the holiday season. This year’s turnout is a testament to the strength and spirit of District 3, and I’m so grateful to our community partners for helping make it possible.”
Valencia College Sets All-Time Enrollment High for Fall 2024 With Record-Breaking 49,676 Students
Valencia College shattered its previous enrollment record this fall, welcoming an unprecedented 49,676 students to its campuses and marking a new milestone in the institution's historic growth trajectory. Overall, the number of degree-seeking students enrolled this fall increased 5.5% from fall 2023.
Coming on the heels of a record-breaking spring 2024 semester, the new data reinforce the college’s continuing commitment to providing access to quality, affordable higher education, and workforce training to the residents of Orange and Osceola counties.
“We are proud of our enrollment, not just because it is our highest ever, but because it demonstrates that we are fulfilling our mission as an affordable and open-access college responding to growing demand for education and training in Central Florida,” said Dr. Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College.
Notably, the college also welcomed more first-generation college students than ever before. Of the 49,676 students taking credit classes in the fall semester, 25,176 reported that their parents did not attend college or did not graduate from college.
Record Holiday Travel Predicted: 119.3 Million Americans to Travel for Year-End Holidays
AAA projects a record-breaking 119.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this holiday season, spanning December 21 to January 1. This figure narrowly surpasses the previous record set in 2019 by 64,000 travelers, showcasing a significant rebound in holiday travel post-pandemic. The projection also represents an increase of 3 million travelers compared to last year.
“This is the time of year when lifelong memories are made with loved ones, and travel plays a big role in that,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “With Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday, we’re anticipating record-breaking travel numbers the weekends before and after the holiday.”
Nearly 90% of holiday travelers—107 million people—will take to the roads, maintaining its position as the most popular travel method. While this marks an increase of 2.5 million drivers compared to 2023, it falls just short of the 2019 record of 108 million. Favorable gas prices, averaging lower than last year’s $3.12 per gallon, and the flexibility of road trips contribute to the surge.
Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute
Opens Walk-In Clinic in St. Cloud
The Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute is pleased to announce a new walkin clinic has opened in St. Cloud to provide expert sports medicine and orthopedic care to residents without an appointment. The practice opened its doors to the community earlier this month, offering the latest diagnostic and treatment options for injuries or illnesses that affect the bones and soft tissues in all ages.
Highly trained bilingual medical providers will evaluate and treat sports concussions, sprains, strains, stress fractures and other orthopedic injuries. Patients will have immediate access to x-ray imaging and casting during their visit.
“The Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute walk-in clinic is a convenient way for people to get faster, more streamlined specialty care for orthopedic and sports medicine injuries,” said Kelsey Kiser, Assistant Vice President Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute. “Patients are often able to skip a trip to the emergency room and go straight to the experts, who can diagnose, and in some cases treat the injury or condition in a single visit.”
Osceola’s Museum of Military History Among 62 Beneficiaries of United Arts of Central Florida Grant
United Arts of Central Florida has announced a transformative investment of $2.45 million in 62 local nonprofits to bolster arts and culture across Osceola, Lake, Orange, and Seminole Counties. This funding will sustain jobs, enrich cultural experiences, and fortify the artistic foundations of the region.Among the recipients, the Museum of Military History in Osceola County received $10,000.
The museum, which began in 2003 as the Veterans Tribute & Museum of Osceola County Inc. at the Osceola Square Mall, has evolved into a tribute to military history and education. Since moving to its current location in 2012, it has become a cornerstone of cultural and historical enrichment in the community.
Jennifer Evins, president and CEO of United Arts of Central Florida, said, “In a season of great need, we stand firm in our commitment to the arts, science, and history organizations, as well as individual artists, in our region. The $2.45 million in grant support will empower nonprofits to innovate and thrive, ensuring cultural experiences remain accessible to everyone—from our neighbors to visitors from across the globe. Together, we are building a vibrant cultural future for Central Florida and we could not be more proud to be Central Florida’s local arts agency.”
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4gLJe2s
Surfing Santas Make Waves in Cocoa Beach: A 16-Year Holiday Tradition With Over 12,000 Spectators, Sponsored by Orlando Health
The Surfing Santas returned to Cocoa Beach, Florida, for the 16th year, transforming Florida’s Space Coast into a vibrant spectacle of holiday cheer. Recognized as one of the world’s mostanticipated Santa-themed gatherings, and sponsored by Orlando Health, the event solidifies Cocoa Beach’s reputation as the surfing capital of Florida’s East Coast.
On Christmas Eve morning, more than 12,000 spectators flocked to the sandy shores to cheer on over 400 surfers dressed as Santa Claus. This year’s event set a record, raising $100,000 for charity, bringing the total funds raised since 2013 to over $400,000.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/49Vx6JR
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.”
District One Osceola Commissioner Peggy Choudhry Spreads
Holiday Cheer with Toys, Vendors, and Community Fun
District One Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry brought the holiday spirit to life on Saturday with her annual Toy Distribution Event, transforming West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway near Boston Lobster Feast into a festive celebration that delighted children and families in need.
Families lined up early to participate in the free, family-friendly event, which operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Salvation Army generously provided toys, ensuring that children left with gifts to make their holidays special. Adding to the excitement, Santa Claus made an appearance, posing for photos with delighted children.
In addition to the toy giveaway, the event featured numerous vendors, engaging activities, and community partners. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office participated, providing resources and connecting with families. An anti-bullying exhibit, a cause close to Commissioner Choudhry’s heart, highlighted her commitment to fostering kindness and inclusivity. The exhibit tied into her annual Anti-Bullying Glow Event, a signature initiative to raise awareness about bullying prevention.
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.
Merry Christmas, Mega Millions Jackpot Climbs to $1.15 Billion: Fifth Largest in Game History
As the holiday season reaches its peak, the Mega Millions jackpot is delivering its own celebration-worthy excitement. With no ticket matching all six numbers drawn on Christmas Eve – the white balls 11, 14, 38, 45, 46, and the gold Mega Ball 3 – the jackpot has surged to an estimated $1.15 billion ($516.1 million cash) for the next drawing on Friday, December 27. If won, this would mark the fifth largest jackpot in Mega Millions history.
“We know many people will likely receive tickets to Friday’s drawing as holiday gifts, and what an incredible gift it would be to win a $1.15 billion jackpot,” said Joshua Johnston, lead director for the Mega Millions Consortium. “It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season – from Christmas and Hanukkah to Kwanzaa and beyond – by making dreams come true through a life-changing prize.”
St. Cloud Police Bring Holiday Smiles and Joy at Annual Shop with a Cop Event
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.
“For many, the holidays aren’t always filled with joy, laughter, or gifts—but thanks to events like Shop with a Cop, we can bring a little holiday magic to those who need it most,” said St. Cloud Police Chief Doug Goerke.
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
NEWS
Avery, Scarlett, Matthew, and Michael Led Christmas Baby Names in 2023—What Will Top the List This Christmas?
On this Christmas Day, families across Florida are celebrating not only the holiday season but also the joy of welcoming new bundles of joy. In 2023, names like Avery, Scarlett, Matthew, and Michael led the list of Christmas-inspired baby names—will these festive favorites remain on top this year, or will new names capture the holiday spirit?
The Most Popular Names
On this Christmas Day, families across Florida are Data gathered by PlayFame from the Social Security Administration (SSA), highlights the top Christmas-inspired names given to Florida babies this year. Avery, a whimsical name meaning “ruler of the elves,” claimed the crown for girls, with 319 babies receiving the name in 2023. This old English name bridges the timeless charm of folklore with the playful tradition of “Elf on the Shelf.”
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.
