The Osceola Daily News for June 12, 2025

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Kissimmee to Celebrate Juneteenth this Saturday at Civic Center

Kissimmee invites the community to come together in celebration of freedom, heritage, and unity at its annual Juneteenth Celebration this Saturday, June 14, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Civic Center.

Around Osceola

Celebrate Independence Day in St. Cloud on the 4th
Commissioner Arrington Leads Pet Microchipping
SeaWorld Orlando Brings Back “Bands, Brew & BBQ”
Commissioner Janer's ';'Vibing with Viviana Series
‘Go Skate Day’ Rolls Into Kissimmee on June 28
SeaWorld Orlando Welcomes Emperor Penguins
Osceola Arts Launches Colorful New Mural Project
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights
Grace Kline’Portraits Featured at St. Cloud Library

REOPENING

Friday, June 13, 2025 10 a.m. 100 Astor Court

Buena Ventura Lakes, FL 34743

Osceola County Chairwoman Viviana Janer (D2) invites you to join her for the re-opening of the El Yunque Splash Pad in Buenaventura Lakes.

Chairwoman Viviana Janer, District 2

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

Osceola Insights with District 1

Commissioner Peggy Choudry

Thanking Majors Ken and Jessie Chapman for Their Years of Service

Commissioner Viviana Janer Osceola History and Prosper

IN & AROUND OSCEOLA

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.

Vibing With Viviana Video Series

With the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially underway, Osceola County Chairwoman and District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer is urging residents to take simple but critical steps to stay safe and prepared. In a recent visit to the Osceola County Emergency Management Center, Janer joined Emergency Management

Celebrate Independence Day in St. Cloud with “4th on the Lake: Road to the Semi-Quincentennial”

St. Cloud is ready to light up the sky this Independence Day with one of Central Florida’s most anticipated celebrations — 4th on the Lake: Road to the Semi-Quincentennial! Hosted by the City of St. Cloud and sponsored by Toho Water Authority, Orlando Health, AdventHealth, and OUC, the event will take place on Thursday, July 4, at the scenic Lakefront Park beginning at 4 p.m.

This all-American celebration promises an unforgettable afternoon and evening of patriotic family fun for residents and visitors alike. Highlights include:

• Live Music by the Derek Mack Band

• Classic Car Show

• Delicious Eats at the Food Court and Bar

• Local Vendors Showcasing Community Favorites

• Kids Zones, Games, and Prizes

• Kids Bike Parade

• Grand Fireworks Show Set to Music at 9:15 p.m.

‘Go Skate Day’ Rolls Into Kissimmee on June 28 with Fun for All Ages

The City of Kissimmee is inviting residents and visitors of all ages to grab their skateboards, roller skates, and inline skates and head to Mark Durbin Skatepark for a high-energy celebration of skate culture. Go Skate Day takes place Saturday, June 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and is open to skaters of all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned pros.

Hosted at the city’s only skate park, the free event will feature skate-inspired activities, community engagement, and giveaways, all designed to promote the joy and creativity of skating. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with fellow skaters, practice their skills in a welcoming environment, and enjoy a lively outdoor experience in the heart of Kissimmee.

“Go Skate Day is about more than just skating—it’s about building community, encouraging active lifestyles, and celebrating the diverse culture that skating brings,” said event organizers.

Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy the fun, whether spectating or participating. The Mark Durbin Skatepark, named in honor of former Kissimmee City Manager Mark Durbin, continues to serve as a vibrant recreational hub for local youth and skate enthusiasts alike.

Commissioner Janer Highlights Osceola’s Rich History, Bright Future in 'Vibing with Viviana' Video Series

In a recent episode of her ongoing video series Vibing with Viviana, Osceola County Chairwoman and District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer spotlighted two key initiatives that define Osceola’s past and future — the treasured Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek and the transformative Osceola Prosper program.

Filmed at Osceola History’s Pioneer Village, Janer stepped inside a replica of the Naroossee Schoolhouse to reflect on the county’s deep educational roots and its evolving commitment to student success. The village features both original and replicated structures from the late 1800s, transported from various parts of Osceola County to paint a vivid picture of life before modern conveniences.

“Pioneer Village is more than just a step back in time — it’s a hands-on experience that brings Osceola’s early days to life,” Janer said. “It connects our community to the spirit, resilience, and ingenuity of the pioneers who helped build this county.”

Janer also invited the public to attend this year’s Pioneer Day on November 8 — a free, family-friendly event featuring live music, craft stations, historical demonstrations, and a real Florida market.

Guests will also have the chance to meet resident farm animals, including a goat named Buster and a few chickens that call the village home.

Osceola Arts Launches Colorful Five-Wall Mural Project at Orange Gardens Community Center

Osceola Arts has kicked off an exciting new chapter in community art with the launch of a bold and inspiring five-wall mural installation at the Orange Gardens Community Center in Kissimmee. Created by local artist Deivis Sanchez, the project is part of Osceola Arts’ ongoing ARTisNOW Public Murals Project.

Each of the five mural walls highlights a specific theme in that story, ranging from origins to aspirations for the future:

Wall 1: The Beginning features abstract flows and a radiant sun, symbolizing hope and the foundational moments of the community.

Wall 2: Growth and Identity is brought to life with a hummingbird among flowers, representing vitality, diversity, and strong identity.

Wall 3: Connection and Unity showcases a butterfly, blooming flowers, and an outstretched hand, symbolizing collaboration and collective progress.

Wall 4: Celebration explodes with energy and color, using butterfly wings and vibrant hues to reflect joy and harmony within a united community.

Wall 5: The Future closes the series with an optimistic vision of what’s ahead, filled with abstract shapes and colorful florals to represent growth, sustainability, and forward momentum.

Kissimmee to Celebrate

Juneteenth this Saturday with Festival of Freedom, Culture, and Community

The City of Kissimmee invites the community to come together in celebration of freedom, heritage, and unity at its annual Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, June 14, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Kissimmee Civic Center.

This powerful celebration honors the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans and recognizes their enduring legacy, resilience, and immeasurable contributions to the nation’s progress and culture.

This year’s Juneteenth Festival promises an unforgettable afternoon filled with music, movement, and meaningful moments. Highlights include:

• Live performances by hip-hop artist Yung Joc and soulful vocalist Michael Randolph

• Line dancing with the energetic and engaging Jaz

• A diverse array of delicious food vendors

• Unique craft and merchandise booths

• Family-friendly activities, including the exciting KUA Kids Power Zone with hands-on fun for children

The festival is made possible through the partnership and support of Experience Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA), and Toho Water Authority.

SeaWorld Orlando Brings Back “Bands, Brew & BBQ” for Sizzling Summer Series

SeaWorld Orlando has announced the grand return of its fan-favorite summer event, Bands, Brew & BBQ, spanning eight weekends from July 5 (or July 6) through August 24*. The festival promises a vibrant mix of live music, delicious BBQ, and refreshing drinks, all included with regular park admission .

What to Expect

Live Music Lineup – Held in the air-conditioned Nautilus Theater, the concerts feature a curated mix of country and rock tributes as well as live acts. Highlights include:

July 12: Journey Tribute

July 13: Joe Nichols

July 19: Toby Keith Tribute

July 20: Blue Öyster Cult

July 26: Jason Aldean Tribute

July 27: Dokken

Aug 2: Bon Jovi Tribute

Aug 3: Avery Anna

Grace Kline’s Expressive Portraits Featured at St. Cloud Library Through Osceola Arts’ Art in Public Places

Osceola Arts is shining a spotlight on local talent with its latest Art in Public Places exhibition, now featuring the expressive and thoughtful works of artist Grace Kline at the St. Cloud Library.

On view through July 25, Kline’s exhibit brings her lifelong passion for art to the public, showcasing her journey from creating paper dolls for her teachers as a child to mastering portraiture as her preferred medium. Her pieces reflect an artist who finds joy in bringing faces to life through the strokes of her brush.

Kline’s artistic journey has been marked by a commitment to growth and learning. She studied at the Windermere Art Gallery and received a year of private instruction from a prolific watercolorist. Over the years, she has expanded her skills through workshops in oil, pastel, and watercolor painting, participating in juried art shows and developing a signature style that captures emotion and personality in every portrait.

Visitors to the St. Cloud Library, located at 810 13th Street, can experience Kline’s work during regular library hours through July 25.

The exhibition is part of Osceola Arts’ Art in Public Places initiative, which places local artwork in public libraries and Kissimmee City Hall, enriching the community with vibrant, accessible art experiences.

Osceola Arts is nearing the completion of its 64th season with a thrilling and thoughtprovoking twist on a literary classic—and this is the final weekend to catch it!

“Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson, Apt. 2B” brings Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson into the modern day with a sharp, feminist edge. In this bold reimagining, the legendary detectives are reintroduced as Sherlock and Joan—two unconventional female roommates navigating a chaotic, post-pandemic world. Their partnership is anything but ordinary, combining razor-sharp wit, mystery-solving brilliance, and a dash of dysfunction as they confront a cunning new nemesis.

Packed with fast-paced storytelling, dark humor, and contemporary flair, the production offers audiences a unique take on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic characters while tackling timely themes through a modern lens.

This weekend’s special performances include:

Friday, June 13 at 7:30 p.m. – Audio Described Performance

Saturday, June 14 at 2:00 p.m. – ASL-Interpreted Performance

Sunday, June 15 at 2:00 p.m. – Final Performance of the Season

Kissimmee Utility Authority

Honored Nationally with Prestigious E.F. Scattergood System Achievement

Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) has once again earned national recognition for its excellence in public power service. During the American Public Power Association’s (APPA) National Conference in New Orleans, KUA received the esteemed E.F. Scattergood System Achievement Award — a top honor presented to APPA member utilities for sustained achievement and exemplary customer service.

This marks the second time KUA has received the award, having first earned the distinction in 2016.

“We are truly honored and humbled to receive this prestigious award,” said Brian Horton, KUA President & General Manager. “This achievement is a reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence and our customers’ confidence in our service and reliability.”

KUA’s long track record of innovation, reliability, and community engagement helped secure the award. Among its notable programs is the Good Neighbor Fund, which has now surpassed 8,000 participating customers who round up their utility bills to assist fellow residents facing financial hardship.

In 2023, the utility expanded its efforts to support a growing and evolving customer base with the launch of its Surge Protection Program and Home EV Charger Program, both of which advance KUA’s mission to deliver sustainable and reliable energy.

Kissimmee Drug Ring Dismantled: Five Plead Guilty in Cocaine Conspiracy Facing Decades Behind Bars

A cocaine trafficking conspiracy that stretched across multiple homes in Kissimmee has come to a close with five local residents pleading guilty to federal charges—one of whom now faces up to 40 years in prison.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, 26-year-old Luis Ruben Martinez Calderon entered a guilty plea on June 5, making him the final defendant in a federal case that targeted a cocaine distribution network operating out of residential neighborhoods in Osceola County.

Federal court documents show that Martinez Calderon supplied cocaine to streetlevel dealers, including 34-year-old Quamain Alique Barber. Investigators say Martinez Calderon stored cocaine both in his apartment—shared with his girlfriend, Aisha Nicolle Sanchez—and at his mother’s residence. Both women, Sanchez, 25, and Evelyn Calderon, 57, also pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy charges last month.

The investigation uncovered that Barber, while under surveillance, sold cocaine to an undercover officer in January and quickly returned to Martinez Calderon to restock. Authorities said Sanchez later retrieved at least two kilograms of cocaine from Evelyn Calderon’s home, which was delivered back to Martinez Calderon for further distribution.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Expands in Central

Florida with New Stake and Leadership in St.

Amid significant growth among congregations across Central Florida, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced a major regional reorganization, including the creation of a new stake and leadership changes across several communities.

Most notably for Osceola County, the St. Cloud Florida Stake now has new leadership to guide and support the Church’s growing presence in the area.

St. Cloud Florida Stake Names Warren L. James as New Stake President

The St. Cloud Florida Stake, which includes congregations in Narcoossee, Canoe Creek, Hickory Tree Branch, St. Cloud, Ellsworth, Kissimmee, and Pleasant Hill, has called Warren L. James to serve as its new stake president.

President James brings more than 30 years of public service experience as a retired fire chief in Utah’s Salt Lake Valley. He earned a degree in Public Emergency Services Management from Utah Valley University and previously served as a full-time missionary in Florida from 1988 to 1990. His deep affection for the state eventually led him and his wife, Michelle, to relocate to Osceola County in 2022—fulfilling a longtime personal goal.

“I am humbled with the trust Heavenly Father has placed in me and I’m very excited to serve our members and neighbors in Osceola County,” President James said.

District

3 County Commissioner Brandon Arrington Leads Pet Microchipping Event to Support Osceola Pets

Osceola County District 3 Commissioner & Vice Chairman Brandon Arrington hosted a free pet microchipping event last Saturday at Valencia College’s Poinciana Campus. In partnership with Osceola County Animal Services, the initiative successfully microchipped 114 pets, including both cats and dogs, despite “Mother Nature” supplying some rainy weather conditions.

The event aimed to promote responsible pet ownership by offering free microchipping services to local residents—providing an easy and effective way to help reunite lost pets with their families.

Microchipping is widely recognized as one of the most reliable methods for ensuring lost pets find their way home. According to a study by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), dogs with microchips were returned to their owners more than half the time—52.2%—compared to just 21.9% for those without. The impact is even more striking for cats: 38.5% of microchipped cats were reunited with their families, while only 1.8% of non-microchipped cats made it home.

With statistics like these, local officials and animal advocates are encouraging all pet owners to take advantage of microchipping services, calling it a simple step that can make a life-changing difference.

OSCEOLA WEATHER

KUA Releases Free Bilingual 2025 Osceola Hurricane Guide

for Predicted Active Storm Season

With the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season forecasted to be above average, Kissimmee Utility Authority has released its annual Osceola Hurricane Guide — a free, bilingual resource to help residents prepare for severe weather.

A partnership between KUA, Osceola County, the cities of Kissimmee and St. Cloud, Toho Water Authority, the Osceola County Property Appraiser, and UF IFAS Extension in Osceola County, the handbook includes information on emergency shelters, evacuation routes, generator safety and power outage restoration as well as helpful telephone numbers, and a disaster supplies checklist.

The guide can be downloaded in English and Spanish from KUA’s website at kua.com/ storm.

Printed copies of the bilingual handbook are now available in KUA’s Carroll Street lobby, located at 1701 W. Carroll St, Kissimmee, FL.

“We urge families to begin reviewing the information in this guide to help them develop a plan to prepare for hurricane season,” said KUA President and General Manager Brian Horton. “As you work on your plan, rest assured that KUA is prepared too. We have a team of nearly 300 highly skilled employees ready to respond to severe weather at a moment’s notice.”

OSCEOLA WEATHER

Chairwoman Viviana Janer Encourages Osceola Residents to Be Storm-Ready This Hurricane Season

With the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially underway, Osceola County Chairwoman and District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer is urging residents to take simple but critical steps to stay safe and prepared. In a recent visit to the Osceola County Emergency Management Center, Janer joined Emergency Management Director Bill Litton to emphasize the importance of early preparation.

“Hurricane season officially begins on June 1st, and I want to make sure you and your loved ones are ready,” Janer said in the newest episode of her Vibing with Viviana video series. “Don’t wait until a storm is already heading our way. Now is the time to build your emergency kit.”

Key recommendations from Janer and Emergency Management include:

Having enough water, non-perishable food, and medications

Packing flashlights, batteries, and pet supplies

Registering for emergency alerts via Alert Osceola by texting AlertOsceola to 888777

Staying tuned to local news and weather updates (right here on Positively Osceola)

Residents are also encouraged to visit ReadyOsceola.org for more preparedness

Commissioner Grieb Unveils Winning Zenith High Grad Student-Designed Boys & Girls Clubs Bike Rack

Earlier this week, Osceola County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb (District 4) hosted a special unveiling ceremony at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida – Tupperware Brands Branch in Kissimmee to reveal the winning design of the 2024 Bike Rack Competition. The event celebrated the creativity and technical skills of local students while showcasing the power of hands-on learning and community partnerships.

The centerpiece of the ceremony was the installation of a uniquely designed bike rack, created by Zenith High School graduate Scarlett Powers and fabricated by welding students from Valencia College’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center. Powers, who utilized support from the Osceola Prosper program, designed a structure that not only provides functionality but also reflects the diversity of the community it serves.

Commissioner Grieb emphasized the broader impact of the initiative, stating, “Each year, we invite students from Zenith High School to take on a real-world challenge, and every year they exceed those expectations.

This program is about more than designing a bike rack. It’s about giving students the opportunity to solve problems creatively; it’s about connecting education with workforce and technical skills … It’s about strengthening the partnerships that make our county prosper.”

Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation Expanding Health and Safety Protections for Florida Firefighters

At the 81st Annual Convention of the Florida Professional Firefighters this week, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 929 into law, a measure that expands the Florida Firefighters Occupational Safety and Health Act to include provisions for occupational disease prevention and mental health support.

The new law aims to address growing concerns about firefighter exposure to toxic substances and the psychological toll of emergency response work. HB 929 directs the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of the State Fire Marshal to adopt rules focused on reducing health risks—both physical and mental—faced by firefighters.

Among the bill’s key provisions:

Fire departments must begin purchasing gear free of hazardous chemicals once such equipment becomes commercially available.

Employers are required to notify firefighters if their current gear contains toxic materials.

The Division of the State Fire Marshal must implement protocols to monitor mental health, including suicide risk, and promote prevention strategies. Standard firefighter shifts will be capped at 42 hours per week to help reduce burnout.

HEALTH NEWS

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Launches AfterHours Dining to Support Patient Care and Recovery

In a move aimed at enhancing patient comfort and care, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has introduced a new after-hours dining service for patients who may miss regular meal times due to medical testing, treatments, or late-night hospital admissions.

The extended dining option, which operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., began in April and served 91 patients last month alone.

“We recognize the critical role of nutrition in our patients’ recovery,” said Tammy Foster, director of food and nutrition at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “This new service is a simple, but powerful way to support the comfort and healing needs of the patients we are grateful to care for.”

Beyond serving hot evening meals, the initiative also allows team members to connect with patients in the evenings to review breakfast options for the next day, further personalizing the care experience and ensuring continued nutritional support.

Orlando Health, the hospital’s parent organization, is a not-for-profit healthcare system serving Florida, Alabama, and Puerto Rico. With a mission to improve health and quality of life, the system manages over $12 billion in assets and delivers care through an expansive network of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty facilities.

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Recertified

as Advanced Primary Stroke Center

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital has once again earned national recognition for its commitment to exceptional stroke care. The hospital has been recertified by The Joint Commission as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center, a prestigious designation that reflects a hospital’s commitment to meeting high standards in clinical performance and patient outcomes.

Originally certified in 2023, this recertification acknowledges the hospital’s consistent efforts in delivering timely, life-saving care to stroke patients. When a patient exhibits warning signs of a stroke—such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or speech difficulty—a “stroke alert” is immediately initiated, activating a hospital-wide response designed to reduce brain damage and improve recovery outcomes.

“Access to rapid, expert stroke care saves lives, preserves brain function, and ensures patients have the best possible chance at recovery,” said Stacy Jemtrud, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, CENP, chief nursing officer at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “Our team is equipped to provide this critical treatment to patients in our community.”

Since launching its stroke program in May 2022, the hospital has responded to 1,702 stroke alerts and treated 292 stroke patients—a testament to the facility’s readiness and effectiveness in emergency stroke care.

LEGAL NEWS

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.

Park Hopping

There’s

a New Emperor in Town: SeaWorld Orlando Welcomes Emperor Penguins to Antarctica Realm

SeaWorld Orlando is welcoming royalty this summer—feathered royalty, that is. For the first time in the park’s history, Emperor Penguins, the largest and most majestic of all penguin species, are arriving at the Antarctica Realm beginning June 14, making SeaWorld Orlando the only place in the Western Hemisphere where guests can see these incredible birds in person.

Known for their impressive size, elegant black-and-white plumage, and remarkable adaptations to life in Antarctica, emperor penguins are true icons of the icy wilderness. These birds can dive deeper than any other bird species, with some plunges reaching more than 1,800 feet. Their courtship, nesting, and chick-rearing behavior has fascinated scientists and animal lovers alike for decades.

SeaWorld Annual Pass Members will receive exclusive early access to the new habitat on June 12 and 13, giving them a first glimpse of the emperors’ commanding presence and unique behaviors before the exhibit opens to the general public.

To celebrate the emperor penguins’ grand arrival, SeaWorld has partnered with the Creative City Project to launch “Big City Penguins,” an imaginative art installation featuring three towering penguin sculptures placed on rooftops across Downtown Orlando. The playful display includes two 14-foot-tall adult penguins and a 10-foot baby penguin, giving locals and visitors alike a whimsical preview of what’s to come.

Park Hopping

Magic Kingdom’s New Nighttime Parade, “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” Set to Debut July

Magic Kingdom’s Main Street U.S.A. will soon sparkle like never before as Walt Disney World Resort prepares to debut its all-new nighttime parade, “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” on July 20, 2025.

The dazzling new experience will bring dreams to life through the magic of the Blue Fairy, as guests watch their favorite Disney characters and stories unfold in a vibrant, starlit celebration. Featuring a brand-new musical theme, the parade will blend an original score with timeless melodies from beloved Disney and Pixar films, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for dreamers of all ages.

The parade will showcase a stunning lineup of Disney favorites — both classic and contemporary — in glowing splendor, including characters appearing in a nighttime parade for the first time. A highlight of the procession is a whimsical train float inspired by the iconic Main Street Electrical Parade, designed to carry guests on a magical journey through the stars.

Among the memorable scenes, guests can expect to see: Goofy, Pluto, Donald, and Daisy leading the way

Snow White and Dopey aboard a twinkling minecar

Rapunzel and Flynn Rider adrift in a glowing lantern boat

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4llRWqD

Park Hopping

Explore the Wild Side: Drive-Thru Safari Park at Wild Florida Offers an Unforgettable Adventure

Ready to embark on a thrilling wildlife journey without leaving the comfort of your car? Look no further than Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari Park, an Osceola County gem that’s redefining family road trips.

With over 150 exotic and native animals roaming freely across expansive grounds, the safari park offers a unique opportunity to get up close to giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and more. The gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 6 p.m., with the last car allowed in at 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

But the adventure doesn’t end there. Guests can enhance their visit with unforgettable animal encounters, from feeding gentle giants to painting alongside the tallest creatures on Earth.

And as a bonus, admission to Wild Florida’s Gator Park is included with every safari ticket, allowing visitors to walk on the wild side with alligators and other fascinating reptiles.

Whether booking online, calling 407-957-3135, or emailing reservations@wildfl.com, the process is quick and easy. Reservations are available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it simple to plan a day of adventure.

Park Hopping

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 34 Unleashes Nuclear Nightmares with Fallout House

This fall, Universal Orlando’s chilling Halloween Horror Nights 34 turns up the fear factor with a brand-new haunted house based on Prime Video’s hit series Fallout.

As Universal’s longest-running scare event continues from August 29 through November 2 on 48 select nights, the spotlight now shines on the post-apocalyptic wasteland where nuclear dread meets live terror .

From Vault to Wasteland: Face the Fallout

This first-ever Fallout-themed experience takes guests on a haunting journey:

Vault 33: Begin underground beside vault-dweller Lucy MacLean. Guests witness a horrific massacre before uncovering a sinister secret beneath the surface.

Wasteland Expanse: Step into irradiated streets filled with scavengers, raiders, and terrifying RAD Roaches.

Iconic Encounters: Spot The Ghoul—a radiation-scarred bounty hunter—and Maximus, armored in the formidable T-60 power suit.

Treacherous Landmarks: From the eerie Super Duper Mart to deadly scavenger pits, every turn reveals new horrors

POSITIVELY DELICIOUS

Positively Delicious: Classic Florida Beef Sliders Bring a Taste of Summer to the Table

There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of a grill and the aroma of seasoned beef to signal that summertime has officially arrived in Florida — and Positively Osceola’s Positively Delicious segment is featuring just the recipe to make your backyard barbecue a hit.

Introducing Classic Florida Beef Sliders — a fresh, flavorful bite-sized take on the traditional burger,

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44Cr2n0

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.

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.

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