Downtown St. Cloud came alive on Sunday, March 23, as the 16th Annual Rayzor’s Edge Music and Bike Fest for Relay for Life brought together hundreds of supporters, survivors, families, and music lovers for a day filled with energy, entertainment, and heartfelt purpose.
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” 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.
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.
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
LIVE with Osceola County Fair General Manager Joel Rose
January 6, 2025
LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office
December 19th, 2024
LIVE with Maryemma Bachelder, Director of Communications with the City of St. Cloud
December 10th, 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
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.”
In celebration of Women’s History Month, Osceola County honored five outstanding women for their remarkable contributions to the community during the Board of County Commissioners Meeting on Monday.
The announcement was made by Osceola Chairwoman Viviana Janer, District 2 Commissioner, who originally launched the Women Warriors Awards to recognize the dedication, leadership, and positive impact of women in Osceola County.
This annual tribute continues to highlight trailblazing women whose work has strengthened the community and inspired others.
“Today, as we commemorate Women’s History Month, we are proud to honor five outstanding women whose unwavering dedication, deep empathy, and transformative leadership have left a lasting mark on Osceola County,” said Commissioner Viviana Janer, Chairwoman of the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners. “These women are a true source of inspiration, leading the way to a future where equality prevails, opportunities thrive, and all voices are valued. Their accomplishments stand as a powerful reminder of the profound influence women have in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board has named Lance Lyttle as the next Chief Executive Officer, overseeing operations at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). Lyttle, currently the Managing Director of Aviation for Seattle-Tacoma Airport, will lead the multi-billion-dollar capital improvement program aimed at enhancing both airports as key economic and transportation hubs for Central Florida.
Orlando International Airport, one of the nation’s top 10 busiest airports, serves more than 57 million passengers annually, while Orlando Executive Airport provides critical general aviation access to the region.
Lyttle Brings Decades of Aviation Leadership
Lyttle, who launched his aviation career in 1999 at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport as Chief Information Officer, has held leadership roles in major U.S. airports, including Houston and Seattle. His background includes strategic planning, infrastructure development, and operational management, making him a strong fit to guide Orlando’s growing aviation network.
Osceola County District 1 Commissioner Peggy Choudhry welcomed families for a night of entertainment and community bonding on Friday, March 21, during her Free Family Movie Night at Studio Movie Grill in Kissimmee. The event brought Osceola County residents together for a special showing of Snow White, complete with free popcorn, soda, and exciting raffle prizes.
With the help of Commissioner Choudhry’s daughter, Athena, and the Student Committee — a youth leadership and volunteer group mentored by Choudhry herself — the evening was a heartwarming success. The Student Committee plays an active role in planning and assisting with events like these, learning firsthand about community service, leadership, and civic engagement.
Families checked in as early as 6:15 PM and filled the theater with laughter, smiles, and a shared sense of connection. The event served as a celebration of togetherness while promoting active participation in the community, one of Commissioner Choudhry’s core goals for her district.
“Opportunities like this are about more than just a movie,” said Commissioner Choudhry. “They’re about creating spaces where families feel valued, kids are inspired, and our community comes together in a positive way. ”
Orlando Health has been recognized as a winner of Glassdoor’s 17th Annual Employees’ Choice Awards, earning a spot among the Best Places to Work in 2025. What sets this award apart is that it is based entirely on feedback from employees, who voluntarily share anonymous reviews on Glassdoor, reflecting their experiences with the company, work environment, and overall job satisfaction over the past year.
"What makes this award so special is that it is based entirely on the feedback from our team members," says Karen Frenier, senior vice president, Human Resources and chief nurse executive, Orlando Health. "It's humbling to read the reviews and learn how our benefits, career development opportunities and unique culture have contributed to such a positive work environment for our team. I especially love seeing the comments about teamwork, and we are proud to support our team members as they daily go above and beyond for our patients."
When employees submit reviews about their employer on Glassdoor, they are asked to share their opinions on some of the best reasons to work for their employer (pros), any downsides (cons) and are encouraged to provide advice to management. In addition, employees are asked to rate how satisfied they are with their employer overall, rate their CEO and key workplace attributes,
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4gcEsKE
The Tohopekaliga Water Authority has received federal funding support for two critical infrastructure projects—the St. Cloud Downtown Water Main Replacement Project and the Reaves Road Force Main Replacement—aimed at improving water quality, reliability, and public health. During a recent event, ceremonial checks were presented to recognize the investment in these essential upgrades, which will benefit residents in St. Cloud and Poinciana for years to come.
“Investing in Central Florida’s water infrastructure is essential to protecting public health, strengthening our resilience, and supporting future growth,” said Congressman Darren Soto. “I’m proud to help deliver over $1.6 million for two critical water main replacement projects in Poinciana’s Reaves Road and downtown St. Cloud that will improve service reliability and ensure safe, clean water for our residents. These investments are a testament to our commitment to building stronger, more sustainable communities.”
The St. Cloud Downtown Water Main Replacement replaces aging pipes with larger pipes to improve water quality, system pressure, and overall reliability in downtown St. Cloud. The project cost is $3.7 million with $697,000 in federal funding. The project is expected to be completed in late 2025 or early 2026.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4iYb391
Adults, it’s your turn to join in on the egg-hunting excitement! The City of St. Cloud invites you to the Adult Moonlight Egg Hunt on Friday, April 11, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at The Ranch at St. Cloud, located at 5452 Jones Road (off Narcoossee Road).
This 21+ event promises a night of laughter, prizes, and fun under the stars. Participants can look forward to an exciting egg hunt, live music, food trucks, vendors, and a variety of games and prizes to keep the energy going all night long.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a flashlight to aid in the moonlit hunt and wear comfortable shoes for roaming the grounds.
Ticket Info:
**$15 per person** online (must purchase by 3 p.m. on April 11)
**$20 per person** at the entrance (first come, first served; space is limited)
Tickets are available now at https://webtrac.stcloudfl.gov
Whether you’re hunting for eggs or just enjoying the festive atmosphere, this is a can’tmiss adult night out in St. Cloud!
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4iNEjPB
Downtown St. Cloud came alive on Sunday, March 23, as the 16th Annual Rayzor’s Edge Music and Bike Fest for Relay for Life brought together hundreds of supporters, survivors, families, and music lovers for a day filled with energy, entertainment, and heartfelt purpose. Founded by beloved local hairstylist and cancer survivor Traudi Rayzor, and now led by her daughter, the annual event has grown year after year—while staying true to its heartfelt mission of raising awareness, supporting those battling cancer, and funding the fight for a cure.
This year’s event featured live music across two stages, a classic car and custom bike show, a wide variety of vendors and exhibitors, and special appearances from strolling characters including Star Wars stormtroopers and sandpeople, delighting guests of all ages throughout the day.
Each artist brought their unique sound and passion to the festival stage, drawing cheers and applause from the enthusiastic crowd.
“This community shows up year after year with such heart, and I’m so grateful,” said founder Traudi Rayzor. “It’s not just about raising money—it’s about celebrating survivors, remembering loved ones, and reminding everyone that no one faces cancer alone.”
The City of Kissimmee hosted its annual Women’s History Month Reception on Tuesday, uniting the community to honor the resilience, achievements, and enduring contributions of women throughout history. Held at the City Hall Rain Garden, the event featured an inspiring evening of art, live performances, and special recognitions, celebrating remarkable women whose impact continues to shape Kissimmee’s future.
During the reception, five honorees were recognized for their contributions to the community, highlighting their dedication and achievements in various fields.
Lynda Roth, with over 45 years in education, has dedicated her life to empowering students. A graduate of Rollins College, she has taught in Texas and Florida, inspiring countless students. Lynda has also contributed to the arts, performing in Osceola Arts’ inaugural musical and serving in leadership roles with the Vero Beach Women’s Club and the Kissimmee Junior Women’s Club. Recognized with awards like Kissimmee Women’s Club Member of the Year and the Gabe Allen Teacher of the Year, Lynda is deeply involved in Kiwanis and other local organizations while being a proud mother and grandmother. Her community impact continues to inspire others in Kissimmee.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4kH5q0w
The Central Florida Animal Reserve (CFAR) welcomed guests for a memorable afternoon of wine, wildlife, and conservation at its semi-annual Sip & Stroll event, held on Sunday, March 9. This unique fundraising event gave attendees the opportunity to support CFAR’s mission while enjoying a guided tour of its big cat residents.
The Spring Sip & Stroll featured fine wines curated by John Siudut of Vintage Vino in Kissimmee, paired with light snacks, creating a relaxing and engaging atmosphere for visitors. Attendees embarked on a captivating walking tour, observing CFAR’s majestic lions, tigers, and other big cats up close while learning about their care and conservation efforts.
In addition to the interactive animal experience, the event included an exciting silent auction, allowing guests to further support the reserve’s work in providing a home for big cats in need.
“We are excited to continue the Sip & Stroll as a semi-annual event, introducing our big cats to the community while sipping wonderful wines from Vintage Vino,” said Dr. Simba Wiltz, CEO of CFAR. “This is a great opportunity for our guests to learn more about these incredible animals, meet our dedicated volunteers, and contribute to a great cause.”
The Rotary Club of Kissimmee West is once again bringing art and philanthropy together with the 9th Annual Virtual Student Art Exhibit, showcasing the creativity of young artists while raising funds for youth education, scholarships, and hunger relief efforts in Osceola County.
The online art exhibit, featuring over 500 juried entries from talented student artists across the county, will run from April 7–14, 2025. Artwork will be displayed virtually on OsceolaGenerations.org, where visitors can review the submissions and vote for their favorite pieces.
Participants can support their favorite student artists by casting votes in the People’s Choice Award, with each vote costing $5. 100% of the proceeds from the voting process will go toward funding the winning artists and teachers, as well as local charitable initiatives.
Winners will be selected across various grade levels, with cash prizes awarded: People’s Choice Award: $250 for the top-voted student Best of Show: $100 for student winners, plus $100 for their teachers to purchase
Osceola and Polk counties are growing rapidly, with communities like Poinciana leading that change. The Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) is working with local leaders to find ways to relieve traffic congestion resulting from Poinciana’s rapid growth.
CFX is proposing the Southport Connector Expressway as part of a series of new roadways to help Move Poinciana. The proposed expressway would be part of a regional solution for easier and more efficient travel - including making it more convenient to get to Interstate 4 and Florida’s Turnpike.
• CFX would widen Cypress Parkway to six lanes to help relieve traffic backups, making travel easier and benefitting everyone.
• Elevated expressway in the middle of Cypress Parkway would let people making longer trips get to their destinations more quickly. That also would mean less traffic on the local road.
• Based on community input, CFX is looking at building the elevated expressway on bridge structures, which would maintain more open, community views; on fill dirt with retaining walls; or a combination of both.
• Cypress Parkway would be improved for pedestrians and motorists alike.
Orlando Health’s Hospital Care at Home program, which delivers acute hospitallevel care directly to adult patients in the comfort of their own homes, has successfully treated over 2,000 patients across Central Florida since its launch in February 2023.
The program, available to Orlando Health patients who meet specific clinical criteria determined by emergency department and hospital staff, is now available through Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, Orlando Health Emergency Room –Osceola, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Randal Park, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Lake Mary, Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. In June, Hospital Care at Home celebrated its 1,000th patient admitted into the program.
“This latest milestone reflects the significant growth of our program within less than two years of operation,” said Linda Fitzpatrick, assistant vice president, Orlando Health Hospital Care at Home. “It is a testament to our patients’ trust in this advanced healthcare model and the dedication of our care providers.”
The St. Cloud City Council and the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners convened today at Osceola Heritage Park for an interlocal meeting focused on key issues shaping the region’s future. The discussion, which was well attended by the community, centered on major transportation projects, infrastructure development, and strategic planning for growth within the St. Cloud Joint Planning Area (JPA) and beyond.
Local leaders collaborated on expanding roadway networks, enhancing public services, and managing sustainable development to accommodate the area’s rapid growth. The meeting reinforced a shared commitment to improving mobility, supporting economic development, and ensuring long-term infrastructure solutions that will benefit both St. Cloud and Osceola County residents.
“We appreciate Mayor Chris Robertson and the City Council inviting the Board to join in a robust and productive dialogue on how we can jointly continue to improve the lives of our residents,” said Commissioner Viviana Janer, Chairwoman of the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners. “As the nation’s 8th fastest growing county, we continue to work tirelessly with our public and private partners for the wellbeing of our community.”
The Jazz at Lincoln Center has officially announced the top high school jazz bands in the nation chosen to compete in the 30th Annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, set to take place from May 7-11, 2025, in New York City. Among the elite finalists is the Osceola County School for the Arts Jazz Band A, led by director Jason Anderson.
This marks another significant achievement for the talented young musicians, who proudly represent not only their school and county but also the entire state of Florida. The Osceola County School for the Arts Jazz Band A is the only high school jazz band from Florida to earn a spot in this prestigious competition.
Last year, the Osceola County School for the Arts (OCSA) Jazz Band A delivered an incredible performance at the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, placing second behind Newark Academy from New Jersey. Alongside their strong finish, OCSA earned prestigious sectional awards, including Outstanding Rhythm Section and Outstanding Brass Section, cementing their reputation as one of the top high school jazz bands in the nation.
Business and community leaders gathered at Osceola Heritage Park on Monday for the St. Cloud Economic Forecast Breakfast 2025, an event hosted by the City of St. Cloud in partnership with the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce. The annual event provided insights into workforce development, business expansion, and the regional economy, featuring discussions led by prominent industry leaders.
The event began with St. Cloud Mayor Chris Robertson delivering the welcome remarks and Pledge of Allegiance, setting the stage for a morning of discussions on St. Cloud’s economic future. Spectrum News 13’s Ybeth Bruzual, who served as emcee, introduced the lineup of speakers and moderated key panel discussions throughout the event.
The first session, “St. Cloud 2025: Navigating Economic Currents,” was presented by Neil Hamilton, Vice President of Research & Strategy at the Orlando Economic Partnership. Hamilton provided an overview of economic trends impacting St. Cloud and the greater Central Florida region, highlighting factors influencing business growth, infrastructure development, and investment opportunities.department staff to better triage patients and fast-track them for treatment.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has commenced work on the Accelerated Start Project, a key initiative under the Moving I-4 Forward program designed to relieve congestion and enhance safety along a heavily traveled stretch of Interstate 4 (I-4) in Osceola County.
The project focuses on a 7.5-mile section of I-4 from east of U.S. 27 to east of World Drive, one of the most congested segments of the interstate. To provide motorists with accelerated relief, FDOT is prioritizing the construction of two new congestion relief lanes—one in each direction—on the inside of the existing mainlines.
Expected Completion: End of 2025
Interchanges Affected: ChampionsGate Boulevard & World Drive
These new lanes will be a critical first step toward long-term roadway expansion, allowing FDOT to enhance infrastructure 10 to 15 years ahead of schedule and alleviate growing traffic pressure. back! community. Through meaningful contributions to nonprofits in need, we are honored to continue this legacy of generosity.”
Orlando Health Hospital Care at Home has made history as the first program in the nation to receive the prestigious Silver Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, recognizing its groundbreaking approach to delivering acute hospital-level care directly in patients’ homes.
The program, which has served more than 2,000 patients in Central Florida since its launch in February 2023, is available to Orlando Health patients who meet specific clinical criteria determined by emergency department and hospital staff. It is available through Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital, Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, Orlando Health Emergency Room –Osceola, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Randal Park, Orlando Health Emergency Room – South Seminole, Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. Orlando Health is among 186 hospitals in the United States that were recognized wit
h Beacon Awards. Recipients demonstrate effective systems for optimal patient care and positive, safe work environments.
rsey Mike’s Subs is aiming to break fundraising records this March as it kicks off its 15th Annual Month of Giving, encouraging customers to “eat a sub and help a local cause.”
On March 26, during the highly anticipated Day of Giving, 100% of sales from Jersey Mike’s locations nationwide will be donated to more than 200 local charities, reinforcing the company’s commitment to making a meaningful impact in communities across the country.
March is Jersey Mike’s Subs 15th Annual Month of Giving, supporting more than 200 local charities.
During the month of March, customers will have the option to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar or donate $1, $3, or $5 when placing their order. Charities include hospitals, youth organizations, food banks and more.
The campaign culminates in the nationwide event, Day of Giving, on Wednesday, March 26, when local Jersey Mike’s owners and operators will donate every single dollar that comes in to local charities.
At the first nationwide fundraiser in 2011, all of Jersey Mike’s 454 locations raised $600,000 for 66 charities.
Residents and families in Osceola County now have a greater opportunity to achieve homeownership through the updated SHIP Home Purchase Assistance Program. This initiative is designed to make owning a home more accessible by providing financial support and guidance to eligible participants.
The updated program includes:
A maximum purchase price of $360,000 for single-family homes, townhomes, or condos located within Osceola County.
Strict adherence to program guidelines to ensure fair distribution of funds and resources.
To apply for assistance, participating lenders must email SHIP@osceola.org. For more details or questions, visit the Osceola County Housing and Community Services Office at 1392 E. Vine Street, Kissimmee, FL 34744, or call 407-742-8400.
This program is part of Osceola County’s commitment to creating opportunities for affordable homeownership, fostering stronger communities, and supporting families across the region.
The Kissimmee Police Department’s Counter Crimes Unit removed three suspected criminals from the streets following the execution of a search warrant at 17 N. Thacker Avenue, marking another significant step in the department’s ongoing fight against drug-related crimes.
During the operation, officers seized cocaine, MDMA, oxycodone, cannabis, and a firearm. Most troubling, according to police, is that two of the individuals arrested were charged with selling cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school, an offense that carries enhanced penalties under Florida law.
“This operation reflects our department’s continued commitment to aggressively tackling drug-related crimes and protecting our community—especially areas near our schools,” said the department in a statement shared on social media.
The names of the suspects and further details about the investigation have not yet been released. The case remains under active investigation.
Kissimmee Police encourage residents to report suspicious activity and remain engaged as they continue working to keep neighborhoods safe.
The City of St. Cloud is calling on Osceola County residents to share their input on the future of local parks, programs, and recreational services by completing the Parks and Recreation Master Plan survey.
The survey, which takes just 10 minutes to complete, gives residents the chance to voice their needs and vision for improving parks and recreational offerings in the area. Feedback collected will help guide decisions on park developments, new amenities, and community programs.
City officials stress the importance of public participation in shaping St. Cloud’s recreational future.
Whether it’s enhancing existing parks or introducing new services, resident input is key to ensuring the community’s needs are met.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference in St. Cloud’s parks and recreation planning. To participate in the survey, click the link below:
Take the Survey Here
Drivers traveling on State Road 417 (Central Florida GreeneWay) should prepare for overnight ramp closures next week as part of the ongoing SR 417 Capacity Improvements Project. The Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) has announced multiple closures between March 23-27, 2025, to accommodate paving and bridge work.
Scheduled Ramp Closures & Detours:
Sunday, March 23& Tuesday, March 25 (9 PM–5 AM)
For the second time in school history, Harmony has an undefeated state wrestling champion.
On Saturday afternoon in a packed Silver Spurs Arena, junior Nathan Lyttle completed a perfect season (48-0) with a thrilling 2-1 win over Lake Mary’s Damonyal White.
The first period ended with both wreslters on their feet in a 0-0 standoff. Starting on the bottom, Lyttle reversed White midway through the second period for his only points of the match. Starting on top, Lyttle did a masterful job of riding White out for more than 80 seconds of the period before White narrowed the gap to 2-1 with an escape at the :36 mark of the match. Neither wrestlers would score the rest of the way , with Lyttle hanging on for the one-point win.
“He (White) was one of the few wrestlers I hadn’t competed against or seen this season,” Lyttle said. “Our styles are pretty much the same. I got the reversal in the second and being able to ride him out for most the third was a huge factor.”
“The conclusion of a great season for Nathan,” Harmony coach Vic Lorenzano said. “I thought White wrestled a smart match. When wrestlers attack Nathan, he usually counters those attacks and scores off of them. I think White knew that by staying cautious, he could keep the match close and have a shot.”
Osceola Magic two-way players Mac McClung and Ethan Thompson greeted fans at City KIA of Greater Orlando this past Saturday. The two guards signed autographs and took pictures with fans as they visited the dealership.
“What an amazing day. It’s great to celebrate the Osceola Magic, our local heroes here,” says City KIA general manager Raul Gomila. “City KIA and the Magic have a strong partnership and we’re looking forward to continuing that in 2025-2026. I’m here speaking on behalf of one dealer, but I’m proud of all our fellow dealers in Central Florida. We’re completely in support of the Osceola Magic and the Orlando Magic. We’re really excited for this partnership to continue for many years.”
McClung and Thompson, along with the rest of the Magic team, were on the back end of a five-game homestand but took time before their final game on Sunday to interact with the fans.
“Putting together this event with City KIA has been incredible,” said Osceola Magic Vice President Carlos Velez. “We know this partnership with them is just the beginning of fun activations for the Osceola community. Seeing Mac interact with fans in front of the K5 model that he dunked over in the dunk contest just showcases the strong ties between the Magic and KIA and makes this event even more special.”
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.
SeaWorld Orlando is set to elevate the thrill factor with its upcoming Coasters After Dark: Seven Seas Edition, an exclusive nighttime event that combines the excitement of riding world-class roller coasters with the culinary delights of the Seven Seas Food Festival. Scheduled for select nights—March 28, and April 4, 2025—from 9:00 PM to 12:00 AM, this limited-capacity experience promises shorter wait times and a unique after-dark atmosphere.
Tickets are $49.99 with sample lanyards available for purchase also.
Featured Attractions:
Pipeline: The Surf Coaster
Experience the sensation of surfing with this innovative coaster that launches riders 110 feet up at 60 mph, featuring dynamic seats that mimic the movement of riding ocean waves.
Manta
Florida’s only flying roller coaster, Manta lets riders glide face-down through multiple inversions at speeds up to 56 mph, simulating the grace of a manta ray.
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.
American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters.
In a move toward greater inclusivity, SeaWorld Orlando has launched ASL Saturdays, a monthly program designed to enhance the park experience for guests who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing beginning Saturday March 1.
Taking place on the first Saturday of every month, this initiative ensures that visitors can fully enjoy SeaWorld’s shows and attractions with the help of live
SeaWorld has partnered with American Sign Language Services (ASLS), a wellrespected interpretation provider, to make the park’s most popular performances, presentations, and guest interactions fully accessible.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Katelyn Tribble, RD, LDN
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.
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.
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.
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.
