The Osceola Daily News for May 14, 2025

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Museum of Military History to Host Armed Forces Day Celebration and Korean War Veterans Dinner this Saturday May 17

The Museum of Military History in Kissimmee will proudly honor America’s heroes during its Armed Forces Day celebration this Saturday.

Women’s Barrel Returns for the 155th Silver Spurs
St. Cloud’s Paddle Boat Relaunches as “The Lillie”
Osceola County Postpones Pulse Tragedy Tribute
City of St. Cloud to Launch Free Grants Training Series
Commissioner Choudhry and Salvation Army Deliver Keys
St. Cloud to Host Free Outdoor Screening of “Moana 2
KUA Releases Free Bilingual 2025 Osceola Hurricane Guide
Poinciana’s Levi Lee Wins State Championship
Osceola Arts Launches 2025 Summer Camps
Around Osceola

In and 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

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

Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the

NEWS

Osceola Commissioner Arrington Highlights $2.1

Million County Investment in Liberty High’s STEM

“A valuable return on investment” was the theme of the day as Vice Chairman and District 3 Commissioner Brandon Arrington toured Liberty High School’s cutting-edge engineering academy—an innovative program aimed at inspiring students to pursue high-demand, high-paying careers in STEM.

As part of the County’s continued commitment to activities at NeoCity and expanding career opportunities for the region’s students, the County made a $2.1 million investment into the new academy at Liberty thanks in part to $500,000 from Commissioner Arrington’s allocated ARPA funds and other appropriated County revenues.

The County’s investment funded building improvements, equipment purchases, and faculty training.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact the work we do as a County Commission is making in our community,” said Osceola County Board of County Commissioners Vice Chairman Brandon Arrington. “By investing in our students’ futures through programs such as this engineering academy and Osceola Prosper, we are shaping a future-ready workforce that can lead in helping to reshore advanced manufacturing and STEM innovation in the U.S.”

Red, White & Rodeo: Silver Spurs Rodeo to Ride Back into Osceola Heritage Park May 30–31

Saddle up for a patriotic, adrenaline-pumping weekend as the Silver Spurs Rodeo returns to Silver Spurs Arena at Osceola Heritage Park on May 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m. for its Red, White & Rodeo event, brought to you by Experience Kissimmee. This summer showdown, brought to you by Experience Kiasimmee, promises high-flying action, heart-pounding excitement, and a heartfelt salute to America’s servicemen and women. Rodeo fans can expect all the classic events that make the sport legendary—bull riding, saddle bronc, bareback riding, barrel racing, team roping, tie-down roping, and steer wrestling—as top cowboys and cowgirls compete for cold. hard. cash and rodeo glory.

As part of the celebration, active and retired military members are invited to attend and will be honored throughout both nights. With paid admission and a valid military ID, veterans and active-duty guests can pick up a voucher in the arena lobby for a free hot dog or hamburger and a drink, courtesy of the Silver Spurs Riding Club.

The Silver Spurs Rodeo has been a staple of Osceola County’s heritage for generations, drawing rodeo fans from across the state for its blend of western sportsmanship and local hospitality. The summer rodeo is part of a long-standing tradition of supporting the community while showcasing elite rodeo talent.

City of St. Cloud Invites Community to “Zumba-Gold in the Park” – A Free Outdoor Fitness Event on May 17

The City of St. Cloud is inviting residents to lace up their sneakers and get moving at Zumba-Gold in the Park, a free community fitness event designed for all activity levels. This energizing morning of movement will take place on Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Performing Arts Pavilion, located at 1104 Lakeshore Blvd.

Attendees can look forward to a fun-filled day of wellness featuring Zumba-Gold, a lower-impact version of the popular dance fitness program, perfect for active older adults and beginners. The event will also include a variety of exciting exercise experiences tailored to promote health and fitness in a supportive, outdoor setting. Zumba-Gold in the Park is free to attend and open to all ages and fitness levels. No registration is required.

For more information, contact St. Cloud Parks and Recreation at 407-957-7243.

Registration Information:

Online Registration: Establish an account prior to enrollment; activation may take up to one business day.

In-Person Registration: Visit the Chris Lyle Aquatic Center during operating hours to enroll.

Osceola Commissioner Choudhry Teams Up with Regional Leaders to Strengthen Infrastructure/Services

Leading the charge for stronger regional collaboration, Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry joined fellow Central Florida leaders on Friday, May 9, at the Polk County Sheriff’s Northeast Substation for the Four Corners Area Commissioners’ Task Force Lunch Meeting. The discussion was chaired by Polk County and included participation from:

• District 1 Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry

• District 4 Polk County Commissioner Martha Santiago

• District 2 Lake County Commissioner Sean M. Parks

“The Four Corners region is one of the fastest-growing areas in Central Florida, and that growth demands cooperation,” said District 1 Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry. “By working together across county lines, we’re creating smarter solutions for water, infrastructure, and access to services that directly impact our residents’ daily lives. This kind of partnership is exactly what our communities need to thrive.”

The meeting agenda focused on regional collaboration and updates on key initiatives affecting the Four Corners region, which spans Osceola, Polk, Lake, and Orange counties.

Commissioner Peggy Choudhry and Animal Services Host Successful Free Microchip Event

Appreciative pet owners from around District One in Osceola County came together on Saturday for a Free Pet Microchip Event, hosted by District 1 Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry in collaboration with Osceola County Animal Services.

Held at 2925 International Drive (former Publix), the drive-up event aimed to enhance pet safety and help ensure lost animals have a better chance of being returned to their families.

The event, which took place from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, was open exclusively to Osceola County residents, with free microchipping provided while supplies lasted.

Commissioner Choudhry, who personally welcomed and assisted attendees, expressed her gratitude for the community’s participation:

“It was heartwarming to see so many residents come out today. Events like these show the strength of our community’s love for their pets,” said Commissioner Peggy Choudhry. “Microchipping is a simple but powerful way to make sure lost pets make it back home safely.”

Hosts Free Tree Giveaway to Promote Community

Osceola County hosted a Free Tree Giveaway on Thursday at Osceola County Fire Station 73, located at 7855 Osceola Polk Line Road. The event was led by District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry, who, alongside Osceola County Fire Chief Larry Collier, kicked off the morning with a ceremonial tree planting in front of the fire station.

The event offered both Maple and Holly trees to residents for free on a first-come, firstserved basis—promoting environmental stewardship and community involvement.

“Planting trees is more than just adding greenery—it’s about investing in the future of our community,” said Commissioner Peggy Choudhry. “This giveaway is a way to bring people together to take action for our environment and enjoy the long-term benefits of a healthier, greener Osceola.”

The initiative reflects the county’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and resilience through simple, impactful acts like tree planting.

“Today’s tree planting symbolizes growth, protection, and preparedness,” added Fire Chief Larry Collier. “Just like the trees we planted, our department is rooted in this community, standing strong to serve and support.”

Osceola County Commissioner Peggy Choudhry

St. Cloud Chamber to Host Quarterly Luncheon Featuring Orlando Health – St. Cloud Hospital

The St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce will host its upcoming Quarterly Luncheon on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Nona Church, located at 255 S Narcoossee Rd. in St. Cloud.

The event will feature a keynote address by Brian Wetzel, President of Orlando Health –St. Cloud Hospital, who will share the latest news and developments from the hospital.

Registration and lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m., with the program scheduled to start at 12:00 p.m. The luncheon provides an excellent opportunity for local business leaders, professiona

ls, and community members to stay informed on health care initiatives and network with others invested in the future of Osceola County.

Tickets are priced at $25 for Chamber members and $30 for non-members. Attendees are encouraged to register early to secure their spot.=

For more information or to register, contact the Chamber at 407-892-3671 or visit www.stcloudflchamber.com.

St. Cloud’s Beloved Paddle Boat Relaunches as “The Lillie” Under New Leadership, John and Terry Weaver!

A treasured symbol of East Lake Tohopekaliga is setting sail on a new course. The iconic paddle boat formerly known as The Pearl has officially begun its next chapter under the stewardship of respected St. Cloud residents and community leaders, John and Terry Weaver. Now renamed The Lillie, the boat will operate under the newly formed Old Florida Riverboat Company, established in 2025.

The unanimous approval by the St. Cloud City Council during Thursday’s meeting marks a powerful moment of renewal for the cherished vessel, which faced a difficult chapter last year following the arrest of its former captain, Richard Lawrence, 38, and his fiancée, Frances Fernandez. Now, with the Weavers at the helm, the community is seeing hope, trust, and purpose restored to a riverboat that has held a special place in the heart of St. Cloud.

“This riverboat has meant so much to the people of St. Cloud, and we’re honored to help write its next chapter,” said Terry Weaver. “The Lillie is more than just a boat — it’s a symbol of joy, history, and community. We’re committed to preserving that legacy and sharing it with generations to come.”

The Weavers, whose deep roots in St. Cloud have made them trusted figures in the community, say their vision is centered on honoring the past while creating memorable new experiences on the water.

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital’s Major 20,000-squarefoot Expansion to Feature New ICU and Cardiac Cath Lab

A significant milestone was reached this week at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital as construction progresses on a transformative expansion designed to elevate patient care in the community. Marked by a ceremonial “topping out,” the hospital celebrated the placement of the final beam on its new two-story, 20,000-square-foot expansion that will house two state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization laboratories and a brand-new 10bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The expansion, located on the northwest corner of the hospital campus, reflects a major investment in advanced cardiovascular and critical care services. The new facilities are expected to open in January 2026 and will provide patients with faster, more advanced treatments without needing to travel outside the community.

“We are thrilled to bring this needed expansion to our Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital campus as it allows us to continue to enhance our care capabilities and to provide, close to home, world class healthcare to this community that we so proudly serve,” said Brian Wetzel, president of Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “I look forward to seeing the great things we are able to do for our patients within this beautiful new space.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4cFcs2f

Osceola Arts Launches 2025 Summer Camps in Kissimmee and Poinciana: A Creative Outlet for Kids

Give your child the gift of creativity this summer with Osceola Arts’ 2025 Summer Camps, an exciting blend of theater, visual arts, music, and filmmaking designed for children ages 7 to 14. This year’s program will take place at two convenient locations: the main Osceola Arts facility in Kissimmee and the Valencia College campus in Poinciana.

Running weekly from June 2 through August 1, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the camps promise hands-on fun and skill-building in the arts. Participants will dive into themed experiences such as Stage Frights, Disney on Broadway, Monster Lab, and Pixel Palette, sparking imagination and collaboration in every session.

Camp offerings include:

• Broadway-inspired performance camps

• Visual arts adventures

• Filmmaking experiences

• Music intensives

Former Orlando Health Patient Reunites with Critical Care Team

In recognition of National Critical Care Awareness Month, a former patient of Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital returned to thank the medical team who saved his life after a harrowing battle with multiple organ failure.

Stephen P. Weisz, retired CEO of Marriott Vacations Worldwide, spent 17 days in the hospital in October 2024 after being admitted with kidney failure. His condition quickly worsened, with declining function in his heart, liver, and lungs. He was placed on a ventilator and into a medically induced coma to give his body a chance to recover.

Thanks to the expertise and coordinated efforts of the hospital’s critical care team, led by Dr. Inga Khachaturova, Weisz stabilized and was eventually transferred to the Orlando Health Advanced Rehabilitation Institute for continued recovery. Today, he has regained nearly 100% of his health.

“Recoveries like Mr. Weisz’s are a testament to the life-saving importance of critical care medicine,” said Dr. Khachaturova. “These cases require not just medical expertise, but also teamwork, resilience, and compassion.”

National Critical Care Awareness Month, observed each May, honors the dedication of critical care professionals—physicians, nurses, and specialists—who care for patients

Osceola County School for the Arts Jazz Band A Shines on International Stage, Finishes Top 3 at Essentially Ellington

In a dazzling celebration of youth jazz excellence, Osceola County School for the Arts (OCSA) Jazz Band A once again took the national stage by storm, once again finishing in the Top 3 in the world at the 30th annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, presented by Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Held Sunday afternoon at the prestigious Metropolitan Opera House in New York City, the final round of the competition brought together the world’s top three high school jazz bands, selected from a record 127 applicants. The three finalists were:

Memphis Central High School – 1st Place Winner

Sant Andreu Jazz Band (Barcelona, Spain) – 2nd Place

Osceola County School for the Arts (Kissimmee, FL) – 3rd Place

This marks back-to-back Top 3 finishes for OCSA, who placed second in last year’s competition, and 1st the year prior. Under the direction of accomplished bandleader Jason Anderson, whose own son is a trumpeter in the ensemble, the group delivered a passionate and technically brilliant performance before a packed house and jazz luminaries including Wynton Marsalis and members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3SlcFhP

Museum of Military History to Host Armed Forces Day Celebration, Korean War Veterans Dinner Saturday

The Museum of Military History in Kissimmee will proudly honor America’s heroes during its Armed Forces Day celebration on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and feature a variety of activities aimed at recognizing and supporting the veteran community.

Attendees can expect access to valuable veteran resources, unique vendors, and a moving Quilts of Valor ceremony — a heartfelt tradition that honors service members and veterans touched by war with comforting, handmade quilts.

Capping off the day of remembrance and community spirit will be the Korean War Veterans Dinner at 5:30 p.m., a special gathering dedicated to honoring those who served during the Korean War. Tickets are required for the dinner and can be purchased by visiting MuseumofMilitaryHistory.com.

The celebration will take place at the museum’s location at 5210 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746.

For more information or to reserve dinner tickets, please visit MuseumofMilitaryHistory. com or call 407-507-3894.

Osceola County and NSF Celebrate Launch of Florida Semiconductor Engine, Ushering in New Era Innovation

Innovation was center stage Tuesday as Osceola County leaders, federal partners, and industry trailblazers gathered at NeoCity for the official ribbon cutting of the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Florida Semiconductor Engine. The milestone event began with “Coffee & Conversation” at the OC Building in Kissimmee, featuring Tawny Olore, P.E., CEO of the newly renamed Engine, who unveiled a new identity and website—SemiconductorEngine.org—solidifying Florida’s place at the forefront of U.S. semiconductor innovation.

The Florida Semiconductor Engine, formerly known as the Central Florida Semiconductor Innovation Engine, is one of only 10 programs nationally selected by the NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines initiative. It was awarded up to $15 million in initial funding and has the potential to receive up to $160 million over the next 10 years to drive growth in the semiconductor advanced and specialty packaging industry.

“This is more than just a ribbon cutting,” said Olore. “It marks the beginning of an unprecedented partnership-driven effort to develop the infrastructure, workforce, and ecosystem needed to power the next generation of semiconductor technology—right here in Florida.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/42TeSXDly/42

St. Cloud to Host Free Outdoor Screening of

“Moana 2”

at Lakefront Park on Friday, May 16

The City of St. Cloud invites residents and visitors to a magical evening under the stars with its upcoming “Movie at the Lakefront” event, featuring a free screening of Moana 2. The movie screening takes place on Friday, May 16, at Lakefront Park, located at 1104 Lake Shore Blvd, with the movie starting at dusk.

Families are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and their sense of adventure as Moana returns to the screen in an all-new animated journey. Continuing the beloved story, Moana 2 follows the spirited wayfinder as she sets out on another daring voyage across the ocean—this time to restore harmony between new island tribes and protect her people’s future.

Joined once again by the shape-shifting demigod Maui and her loyal companions, Moana faces mystical creatures and the challenges of leadership in a beautifully animated tale that celebrates courage, community, and cultural heritage.

This event is part of the City of St. Cloud’s ongoing commitment to providing free, family-friendly entertainment throughout the year. The Movie at the Lakefront series brings the community together for unforgettable nights filled with laughter, storytelling, and connection—set against the scenic backdrop of East Lake Tohopekaliga.

Osceola County Commissioner Ricky Booth Hosts

Successful Plant & Tree Giveaway at Downtown St. Cloud

Osceola County residents gathered in front of St. Cloud City Hall on Wednesday night, April 30, for a special Plant & Tree Giveaway hosted by District 5 Osceola County Commissioner Ricky Booth.

The event, held during the Downtown St. Cloud Monthly Market from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., provided free trees and plants to the community on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Trees and plants increased property values and helped beautify our community,” Commissioner Booth said following the event. “This was a great opportunity to come together during a very busy Downtown St. Cloud Monthly Market and make Osceola even more beautiful.”

Many of the trees given away came directly from the Osceola County Tree Farm, which currently has more than 10,000 trees and seedlings growing. The farm supports countywide sustainability efforts and supplies greenery for community beautification projects like this one.

Attendees were able to choose from a selection of gallon-potted trees and plants.

KUA Releases Free Bilingual 2025 Osceola Hurricane Guide Ahead of 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 County Postpones Pulse Tragedy Tribute Groundbreaking to October

Out of respect for the victims, survivors, and families affected by the 2016 Pulse Nightclub tragedy, Osceola County has postponed the June 12 groundbreaking ceremony for its Wings of the Rainbow tribute, which was originally set to coincide with a final private tour of the nightclub site. The county emphasized its desire not to force loved ones of the victims to choose between the two meaningful events.

“We do not wish to place them in the position of having to choose between that solemn occasion and what we expect to be a meaningful groundbreaking,” the county statement read.

The new groundbreaking date will be in October, coinciding with LGBTQ+ History Month. The Wings of the Rainbow installation is planned for Brownie Wise Park along the shore of Lake Tohopekaliga in Kissimmee, and it will serve as a community-led tribute to those impacted by the Pulse tragedy.

County officials said they look forward to welcoming survivors and families to the rescheduled event and promised more information about exciting community partnerships will be released in the coming weeks.

New Era Begins for Fire Station 43 as Osceola County Celebrates Groundbreaking in Campbell City

Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS, alongside District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington, county leaders, and project partners, officially broke ground on the future site of Fire Station 43 in Campbell City—signaling the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of the county’s most established and dedicated fire stations.

“Station 43 is an institution in this community,” Osceola County Commission Vice Chairman and District 3 Commissioner Brandon Arrington said. “We are so proud that this new facility will give them the space and the resources to continue that tradition of service for many years to come.”

Station 43 has been serving the community in Campbell City for decades, originally founded as the all-volunteer Campbell City Fire Department; when OSCFR was created in 1989, the station was brought into the department and remained a volunteer station for several years.

The station became a “combination” station several years later when a paidprofessional EMS rescue unit was added, transitioning to full around-the-clock staffing in 2002.

Osceola School District Celebrates Official Opening of Voyager K-8 in Sunbridge

On Friday, the School District of Osceola County proudly celebrated the official ribbon cutting of its newest educational facility—Voyager K-8, a state-of-the-art prototype school serving kindergarten through eighth grade students in the rapidly growing Sunbridge community.

The ceremony was attended by a host of community leaders and district representatives, including School Board Members Anthony Cook, Paul Bronson, Terry Castillo, and Board Chair Heather Kahoun, as well as Superintendent Dr. Mark Shanoff and Chief Facilities Officer David Sharma. Also present were school staff, parents, and enthusiastic students eager to be part of this historic moment.

One of the most memorable highlights of the event came from a moving performance of the National Anthem by student Briella, whose heartfelt rendition stirred the audience and captured the pride and promise of Voyager K-8. The event continued with a studentled inspiration program featuring musical performances, student welcomes, a jazz band presentation, and a special time capsule ceremony.

“This school represents more than just a new building—it represents opportunity, innovation, and community,” said Dr. Shanoff. “We are proud to open a space that will empower our students from kindergarten through eighth grade with the tools they need to thrive.”

New Era Begins for Fire Station 43 as Osceola County Celebrates Groundbreaking

Osceola County Fire Rescue & EMS, alongside District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington, county leaders, and project partners, officially broke ground on the future site of Fire Station 43 in Campbell City—signaling the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of the county’s most established and dedicated fire stations.

“Station 43 is an institution in this community,” Osceola County Commission Vice Chairman and District 3 Commissioner Brandon Arrington said. “We are so proud that this new facility will give them the space and the resources to continue that tradition of service for many years to come.”

Station 43 has been serving the community in Campbell City for decades, originally founded as the all-volunteer Campbell City Fire Department; when OSCFR was created in 1989, the station was brought into the department and remained a volunteer station for several years. The station became a “combination” station several years later when a paid-professional EMS rescue unit was added, transitioning to full around-the-clock staffing in 2002.

“The new fire station stands as a lasting symbol to the commitment we have for public safety,” said District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry. “This new home for Station 43 will not only provide comfort and security to our residents and visitors but also serve as a proud and empowering space for our dedicated firefighters and paramedics.”

SPORTS

Coach Don Simon Returns to Harmony’s Sideline as Spring Football Kicks Off Across

There’s an old saying about being able to take the boy out of the country but not being able to take the country out of the boy.

For Harmony football coach Don Simon, that saying is certainly apropos.

Reflecting on his life and career a few years ago, Simon made the decision to step down as football coach of the Longhorns and accept the position of Athletics Director at Tohopekaliga High School.

At the time, the veteran coach noted “I’ve been coaching high school football for 28 years and just decided it was time to step down and let the younger guys take over,” Simon said. And although he said the last two years were interesting and sometimes rewarding, coaching football remained on his mind.

“I’d be less than truthful if I said I didn’t miss it,” he said. “In my mind, I kept questioning my decision wondering if I made the right choice.”

When Simon’s hand-picked replacement Nick Lippert – who was Simon’s long-time defensive coordinator at both Harmony and his previous stop in North Carolina –stepped down at the end of last year, Simon made a call back to Harmony principal James Hickey and was hired immediately.

PARK HOPPING

Explore the Wild Side: Drive-Thru Safari Park at

Wild Florida in Osceola County

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

Fun Spot Kissimmee’s One-Day Dining Deal

Snack

Fun Spot America in Kissimmee is offering an exclusive One-Day Dining Deal that allows guests to enjoy two meals and a snack for just $24.99 plus tax, representing a savings of over 34%. This online-only offer is designed to enhance your park experience with convenient and affordable dining options.

Deal Highlights:

Two Meals: Each meal includes an entrée, side, and dessert. The first meal is available for lunch, and the second for dinner.

One Snack: Redeemable at any time during the day.

Participating Locations: Meals and snacks can be enjoyed at various food venues throughout Fun Spot America Kissimmee.

How It Works:

Purchase Online: Add the One-Day Dining Deal to your ticket purchase through the official Fun Spot America website.

Redeem On-Site: Upon arrival, present your proof of purchase at the ticket window to receive a dining wristband.

Enjoy Your Meals: Use your wristband to claim your meals and snack.

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.

VISIT OSCEOLA

Exploring Osceola County’s Natural Trails and Spaces: A Paradise for Avid Runners, Walkers, and Kayakers

Osceola County is a hidden gem for avid runners, walkers, and kayakers seeking a combination of physical fitness and natural beauty. Although the county is one of the fastest growing regions in Florida, its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and wellmaintained trails, offer a haven for those who want to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through ten of Osceola County’s finest locations where you can experience invigorating runs and leisurely walks amid breathtaking natural landscapes.

• Shingle Creek Regional Park:

Shingle Creek Regional Park, often referred to as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. This vast park offers a network of scenic trails suitable for running and walking. The trails wind through lush forests, along the banks of Shingle Creek, and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an intense trail run, Shingle Creek has something for everyone.

• Celebration Lakeside Park:

Celebration, a charming community in Osceola County, and known to many as the ‘Town that Disney built,’ boasts Celebration Lakeside Park, a beautiful destination for runners and walkers. The park features a loop trail around Lake Rianhard, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The flat terrain and wellpaved paths make it an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or a brisk run.

HEALTH

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

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.

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.

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