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Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and St. Cloud Fire

Rescue Team Up for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In a powerful show of support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital is sponsoring the pink wrapping of multiple St. Cloud Fire Rescue emergency vehicles to spread awareness about the importance of early detection and regular screenings.

Around Osceola

Osceola Moves Forward with Canoe Creek Road Expansion

Osceola Arts Expands its ARTisNOW Mural Project

Magic of Christmas Returns to Downtown St. Cloud

Supervisor of Elections Launches Calendar Contest

SeaWorld Orlando Unveils Christmas Celebration

Osceola History’s 33rd Annual Pioneer Day, Oct 8

Osceola Clerk to Host Halloween Group Wedding

Culture, Music, and Community at Viva Osceola

Tohopekaliga Travels to St. Cloud in Week 9 Battle

invites you to a

DRIVE THRU

S A T U R D A Y , O C T O B E R 2 5 , 2 0 2 5 10 A.M. - 12 P.M.

S T . R O S E O F L I M A C H U R C H 3880 PLEASANT HILL ROAD, KISSIMMEE, FL 34746

Meal packages will be given out to the first 600 families. This is a drive-thru event. Packages will be distributed one per car. First come, first serve. While supplies last.

Culture, Music, and Community Take Center Stage at Viva Osceola 2025

Despite cloudy skies and the threat of soggy weather, the 2025 Viva Osceola festival filled Kissimmee Lakefront Park with color, culture, and community spirit on Sunday, October 5. Presented by Orlando Health, brought to you by Experience Kissimmee, and proudly sponsored by Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) and Toho Water Authority, the annual celebration once again proved why it remains one of Central Florida’s premier Hispanic Heritage Month events.

From the opening beats to the final dance number, festivalgoers experienced an unforgettable showcase of Hispanic pride, unity, and joy. Families gathered to enjoy live performances, authentic cuisine, and vibrant cultural displays representing Venezuelan, Colombian, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Peruvian, and many other Latin American traditions.

Headlining this year’s festival was the internationally acclaimed merengue group Oro Solido, led by Raúl Acosta, whose high-energy performance had the crowd on their feet throughout the afternoon. Local talent also shined, including performances by Luzifer Cachao, México Lindo Orlando, Locura de la Banda Show, and FLaya Dance Academy, whose dancers lit up the stage with rhythm and flair.

The free event, which ran from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., drew big crowds to the scenic Kissimmee lakefront despite the forecast for rain.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/435moOH

“Til Death Do Us Part”: Osceola Clerk to Host Annual Halloween

Wedding Ceremony on October 31

In a spine-chilling yet heartwarming celebration of love, couples are once again invited to say “I do to their boo” at the Historic Osceola County Courthouse on Thursday, October 31, 2025, at 10 a.m. Hosted by Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq., the Historic Osceola County Courthouse in Kissimmee will transform into a whimsically eerie wedding venue for the annual Halloween Group Wedding Ceremony and Reception.

Couples can reserve their place for this one-of-a-kind event, where the courthouse is adorned with cobwebs, pumpkins, and gothic floral arrangements of black and purple roses. The setting combines romance and spooky charm, creating the perfect backdrop for a wedding day that is anything but traditional.

The group ceremony will be officiated in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for all who wish to participate. Following the vows, newlyweds and guests can enjoy a reception filled with Halloween-themed treats — from “horrifyingly delicious” cupcakes to festive music that adds a magical touch to the celebration. In past ceremonies, couples have exchanged vows, renewed commitments, and embraced the holiday’s playful spirit in a way that makes the day unforgettable. Halloween’s nostalgic connection to cherished childhood memories and its festive energy make it an ideal date for couples seeking a unique, nonconventional way to

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and St. Cloud Fire Rescue Team Up for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

“By wrapping these vehicles in pink, we’re sharing a powerful reminder that early detection saves lives,” said Brian Wetzel, president of Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital. “Every time these vehicles are seen in our community, we hope it inspires someone to schedule their mammogram, perform a self-exam, or remind a loved one to get screened.”

The pink emergency vehicles will display the Orlando Health Cancer Institute logo, representing the hospital’s ongoing commitment to advanced cancer care. The institute’s St. Cloud location, housed within the Orlando Health Medical Pavilion – St. Cloud, provides comprehensive services through six exam rooms, two consultation rooms, and 12 infusion bays.

Recently joining the team, Dr. Sara Ardila, a breast surgical oncologist at Orlando Health Cancer Institute – St. Cloud, specializes in the evaluation and treatment of both benign and malignant breast diseases.

Culture, Music, and Community Take Center Stage at Viva Osceola 2025

The free event, which ran from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., drew big crowds to the scenic Kissimmee lakefront despite the forecast for rain.

The Magic of Christmas Returns to Downtown St. Cloud with

the 62nd Annual Christmas Parade

The holiday season in St. Cloud will soon sparkle with joy and community spirit as the 62nd Annual St. Cloud Christmas Parade returns to Downtown St. Cloud on Saturday, December 6 at 10 a.m. Hosted by the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce and the City of St. Cloud, this year’s parade theme — “The Magic of Christmas” — promises to fill the streets with festive cheer, colorful floats, marching bands, and holiday fun for all ages.

The iconic parade is presented by Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, with support from Experience Kissimmee

The much-anticipated community tradition brings together residents, local organizations, and visitors to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

Families can look forward to a magical morning filled with music, creativity, and of course, an appearance from Santa Claus himself! The event is free to the public, and everyone is invited to attend and enjoy the celebration.

Those wishing to participate in the parade are encouraged to register soon before spaces fill up.

For more information, visit the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce.

Osceola County Supervisor of Elections

Launches

Fourth Biannual Calendar Art Contest

The Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Office has announced the start of its fourth biannual calendar art contest, inviting all K-12 students in Osceola County to showcase their creativity while promoting accurate voter information.

The winning artwork will be featured in the Elections Office’s 2026–2027 calendar, which will include key election dates and information for voters. Submissions must be on 8.5” x 11” paper in landscape orientation and contain accurate voter details without endorsing any political party or candidate.

The deadline to submit artwork to the Elections Office is October 14, 2025.

A public gallery event is scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Supervisor of Elections Operations Center, located at 2570 Partin Settlement Road in Kissimmee.

Community members will have the opportunity to view the submissions and vote for their favorite pieces. Artwork selected during the gallery night election will be featured in the upcoming calendar.

For more information, contact the Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Office at 407-742-6000 or visit www.voteosceola.gov/Voter-Information/Outreach-andEducation.

Osceola County Moves Forward with Major Canoe Creek Road Expansion in St. Cloud

Osceola County is moving ahead with plans to widen Canoe Creek Road from two lanes to four, following approval during Monday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting. The project aims to relieve congestion, enhance safety, and prepare the busy roadway for continued population growth in the St. Cloud area.

A Four-Lane Expansion Designed for the Future

The approved plan will expand approximately 4.65 miles of Canoe Creek Road—from Deer Run Road to U.S. Highway 192—transforming it into a four-lane divided arterial roadway. The design includes shared-use paths, sidewalks, upgraded intersections, and new traffic signals to improve flow and safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Right-of-way widths will vary from 150 to 157 feet between Deer Run Road and Pine Street and 122 to 132 feet from Pine Street to U.S. 192. The project will also include stormwater ponds, directional and full median openings, and modern drainage improvements to help manage runoff during heavy rainfall.

New Traffic Signals and Intersection Improvements

To improve safety and traffic efficiency, new traffic signals are proposed at Portofino Vista Boulevard, Creek Woods Drive, and Settlers Trail. These intersections currently experience heavy traffic and are expected to see continued growth as residential

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/46DrwvU

St. Cloud Fire Rescue to Add 48 New Firefighters with Historic $9.5 Million SAFER Grant

The City of St. Cloud has earned a historic $9.5 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that will allow St. Cloud Fire Rescue to hire 48 new firefighters, marking the largest grant award in the city’s history.

The funding, part of the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program, will help the department meet the growing demand for emergency services as St. Cloud’s population continues to rise. Since 2022, the city’s 9-1-1 call center has averaged more than 100,000 calls for service each year, while the city’s population has climbed to over 70,000 — nearly 20% higher than the last U.S. Census count.

Mayor Chris Robertson emphasized the importance of this milestone for the community.

Fire Chief Jason Miller also noted how the grant strengthens the city’s ability to respond in times of need.

“The quality of service we provide to our residents is paramount,” Miller said. “When you or your loved ones need emergency help, knowing you have a welltrained, caring, and professional fire department minutes away makes all the difference.”

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/47n0kT0

Step Back in Time at Osceola History’s 33rd Annual Pioneer Day, Saturday, November 8Tomorrow, Today’

Osceola History invites the community to celebrate the spirit and stories of Florida’s earliest settlers during the 33rd Annual Pioneer Day, taking place Saturday, November 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pioneer Village at Shingle Creek, located at 2491 Babb Road in Kissimmee.

This free, family-friendly festival honors Osceola County’s rich pioneer heritage and the resilience of its 19th-century residents. Visitors can explore the historic Pioneer Village, where authentic structures and costumed interpreters bring history to life — from traditional pioneer homesteads to Seminole camps, offering an immersive glimpse into Florida’s past.

Guests will enjoy live music, a kids’ craft zone, a real Florida market, and captivating demonstrations showcasing pioneer skills and Seminole traditions.

Pioneer Day Arts, Crafts & Market

The event’s lively market will feature an array of handmade arts, crafts, and food products from talented Florida artisans. Visitors can also pick up delicious homemade baked goods and one-of-a-kind creations while supporting local makers.

With free entry and free parking, Pioneer Day is the perfect opportunity for families, history enthusiasts, and visitors to experience “Old Florida” while celebrating the people who shaped Osceola County’s earliest communities.

Osceola Arts Expands its ARTisNOW Project with New Kissimmee Mural

A new mural at the Orange Gardens Community Center is giving Kissimmee residents wings — literally. The latest addition to Osceola Arts’ Public Murals project, the vibrant “Wings of Community” mural was unveiled Thursday with a ribbon-cutting celebration. Artist Deivi Sanchez of Kissimmee completed the five-wall mural on the exterior of the Orange Gardens Community Center over two months this past summer. Sanchez, 39, didn’t start out as an artist; he studied computer science and works as a program developer. “But I discovered art was always in my path,” he said. “I tried to make creative things, and I tried to paint, but it was never a career.” So in 2017, he started training in drawing and painting.

“I like both computers and art,” Sanchez said. “Sometimes people say, ‘You can do this,’ or ‘You can do that.’ They say you have to define. But I don’t want to define. I would like to keep exploring, and at some point, that will stop. But in the meantime, I’m just enjoying it.”

Combining his computer and art skills, Sanchez added an augmented reality element to his mural. By scanning the QR code provided, visitors can see elements of the artwork come to life on their screens.

Sanchez’s mural is the latest addition to the Osceola Arts’ ARTisNOW Public Murals project. The project began in 2019 and now has about 30 murals in Osceola County, according to Brian Camacho, public arts coordinator at Osceola Arts.

KUA Earns Orlando Sentinel’s 2025 Central Florida Top Workplaces Honor

For the third consecutive year, Kissimmee Utility Authority has been recognized with a Top Workplaces award through the Orlando Sentinel’s 2025 program. KUA was named among Central Florida’s 130 leading companies, honored for creating a positive workplace culture and achieving high employee satisfaction. The utility also ranked among the top ten employers in the midsize category. The full list was published in Sunday’s edition of the Orlando Sentinel and is also available online.

Adding to the achievement, KUA earned a special award for Training—one of only a few special honors presented this year—underscoring the organization’s strong commitment to employee growth and professional development.

The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for the third year in a row, and even more meaningful that this recognition comes directly from our employees,” said KUA President and General Manager Brian Horton. “Our team is the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to investing in their growth, and fostering a workplace where they can thrive.”

The confidential survey uniquely measured 24 factors that are critical to the success of any organization, including engagement, leadership, appreciation, respect and support. KUA staff members were officially recognized during an awards luncheon.

Four

County Commissioners Launch Online Tool to Simplify Life for Four Corners Residents

Residents of the Four Corners region now have a new way to quickly identify which county provides their public services, thanks to a collaborative effort by Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Polk counties.

Nearly 60,000 residents live in this unique area where all four counties meet. While the region is known for its rapid growth, bustling neighborhoods, commercial developments, and proximity to major attractions, it has also faced challenges. Because U.S. Postal addresses in Four Corners are often assigned based on routing rather than geography, residents and businesses have long struggled to determine which county to contact for essential services.

To solve that problem, county leaders unveiled a new online address tool at fourcornersfl.us. By entering an address into the search bar, residents can instantly access direct links to county-specific services including Tax Collector, Property Appraiser, Supervisor of Elections, Sheriff’s Office, School District, Clerk of Courts, libraries, and more.

The project was spearheaded by the Four Corners Task Force, an interlocal agreement group formed by the four counties to improve coordination and streamline government services in the region. District commissioners from each county lead the initiative.

Do You Dare? The Legend of the Haunted Trail Returns to St. Cloud’s Peghorn Nature Park This October

St. Cloud’s spookiest tradition is back, and it’s ready to test your courage. The Haunted Trail at Peghorn Nature Park will once again open its eerie paths for thrill-seekers on October 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25, running from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. each night.

Guests will step into the darkness of the park’s winding trails, never knowing what bone-chilling surprises might be waiting around the next corner. With scares lurking in every shadow, this immersive experience promises to deliver frights and thrills for those who dare to enter.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate, with advance purchases required by 5 p.m. the day of the event. Please note that pre-purchased tickets do not provide priority access, so arriving early is encouraged.

The Haunted Trail is not recommended for young children, and tickets are nonrefundable and non-transferable. Guests must bring a copy of their receipt and a photo ID to check in (digital copies are accepted).

Location: Peghorn Nature Park, 2101 Peghorn Way, St. Cloud

Tickets: Purchase here

Get ready for a hauntingly unforgettable night—if you’re brave enough to take the trail.

Osceola

County to Host 2025 State of the County: ‘Building for Tomorrow, Today’ with Chairwoman Viviana Janer

With heavy hearts, the Osceola County community is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished leaders, Beverly Rose Hougland, who passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family.

On Wednesday, friends, coworkers, community leaders, and the many people whose lives were positively touched by Beverly filled the Osceola Council on Aging—an agency she led for decades—for a celebration of life. It was a service not only of remembrance, but of gratitude for a life dedicated to others, to community, and to her beloved family.

Born October 29, 1942, in Loyall, Kentucky, Beverly grew up in Harlan with her twin brother, Rick. From her earliest years, she was known for her gentle spirit, her kindness, and her ability to see the good in everyone. At Loyall High School, she was a flute player, cheerleader, and Beta Club member, her easy smile and welcoming nature making her a friend to all.

She carried that same warmth into adulthood, first as a teacher, where she was remembered as a compassionate educator, and later as a devoted wife and mother. Her life was one of service—whether in the classroom, at home, or in the broader community.

In 1979, Beverly joined the Osceola Council on Aging as the Meals on Wheels coordinator. What began as a mission to ensure seniors received nutritious meals quickly grew into a lifelong calling.

Orlando Health Awards $1.1 Million in Grants to Central Florida Nonprofits to Address Key Health Needs

Orlando Health has announced the distribution of $1.1 million in grants to nonprofit organizations across Central Florida as part of its annual community grant program. The funding supports organizations dedicated to improving health and wellness, aligning with the findings of the newly released 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment.

Each selected nonprofit receives its full grant award at the beginning of the funding cycle, ensuring that resources are available immediately to address urgent community health priorities. The 2025 CHNA, developed in collaboration with local health and community partners, uses a combination of comprehensive data and community feedback to identify the most pressing health challenges throughout the region.

“The Community Health Needs Assessment is a critical component in identifying the highest priority areas impacting the health of our communities today,” said Sara Osborne, senior director of Orlando Health Community Benefit. “By making investments annually and providing grant funding in full at the start of the award period, we’re able to support an immediate impact and collaborate with exceptional community partners who are actively working toward improving health and wellness outcomes in the areas we serve.”

The 2025 assessment highlighted access to care as the top priority for this year’s grant program, focusing on healthcare accessibility, quality, and economic stability.

LEGAL NEWS

Draper

vehicles are

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.

Boots, Bulls & Barrels Returns to Silver Spurs Arena October 4 for One Night of Heart-Pounding Rodeo Action

The dirt returned to the Silver Spurs Arena Saturday night for a sold-out edition of Boots, Bulls & Barrels, hosted by the Silver Spurs Riding Club. The one-night-only event delivered everything rodeo fans love — fast-paced barrel racing, thrilling ranch saddle bronc rides, and high-stakes bull riding — while also highlighting the heart and community spirit that define the Silver Spurs legacy.

Before the first gate cracked open inside the arena, the Silver Spurs Club opened its arms outside for something truly special. Despite soggy afternoon weather, members of the Club hosted a Runway to Hope Trick or Treat event for children who have fought or are currently battling pediatric cancer. Families gathered on the grassy area across from the Silver Spurs Arena along Highway 192, where kids dressed in costumes, met the Silver Spurs Big Boss Kaye Whaley, and former Big Boss Randy Booth, cowboys, and cowgirls, and even spent time with the Club’s gentle horses — all “rodeo style.”

“This is what the Silver Spurs Club is all about,” said Big Boss Katharine Whaley. “Yes, we’re about the rodeo, but we’re also about community — about giving families unforgettable experiences and supporting those who need it most.”

Each participating family received complimentary tickets to attend Boots, Bulls & Barrels later that evening, turning a rainy afternoon into a night of excitement.

SPORTS

District Title Showdown: Tohopekaliga Travels to St. Cloud in Week 9 Battle for First Place as Other County

First place in District 10 7A will be on the line this week when the Tohopekaliga Tigers (4-3, 1-0) travel to St. Cloud’s Thomas Gannarelli Field for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff with the St. Cloud Bulldogs (5-2, 1-0).

The winner will gain control of the 4-team division and move a step closer to an automatic playoff bid.

The Tigers are coming off an impressive 42-8 win over Masters Academy last Friday, where Sabby Meassick became the state’s all-time leader in career completions. Going 28 for 52 for 381 yards and five touchdowns, Meassick has now completed 1034 career varsity passes – breaking the state record formerly held by Lake Nona’s Kyle Isreal.

With at least games left, he also holds county records for career passing yardage 12,202 and career passing TDs (126).

Meassick reached the state record against Masters, despite being without the services of his top target Tre Punter– who was out with an injury. Running back Xaevez Brown more than picked up the slack, catching four balls for 128 yards and rushing for 123. He finished the game with four touchdowns.

St. Cloud should be well-rested as the Bulldogs are coming off a bye week.

Historic

Finish: St. Cloud, Harmony Share OBC Girls Title as Jurgen and Powell Shine with Four Gold Medals

Elise Jurgen and Avery Powell won four gold medals each, as St. Cloud tied Harmony (152 points each) for the Orange Belt Conference Girls Swimming team championship at Markinson Aquatic Center in Kissimmee on Thursday afternoon.

It is believed that this is the first Lady Bulldogs OBC Championship in the sport since 1996 (conference records are missing or incomplete from 1998-2005). And it is also the first time in OBC swimming history that the team championship has ended in a tie.

Overall, St. Cloud won eight of the 11 swimming events.

“This was an amazing day, these kids swam their faces off today,” St. Cloud head coach Jolena Adams said. “It was definitely a team effort today, everyone gave their best and that’s all a coach can ever ask for.’

Having a smaller squad, Adams had to count on the heroic efforts of just six swimmers. Those six, that including Jurgen and Powell, accounted for 146 of St. Cloud’s 152 team points.

Powell set OBC meet records in winning 200-Free (2:06.51) and 500-Free (5:41.87); while swimming a leg on the winning 200 and 400-Free Relays. Jurgen won the 200-IM (2:31.40) and the 100-Free (1:00.07) and was on the winning 200 and 400-Free relays.

Osceola Kowboys Edge Viera 13–10 to Capture

District Crown

The Osceola Kowboys earned another District 5, Class 6A championship Friday night, defeating the Viera Hawks 13–10 in a hard-fought matchup at Markus Paul Stadium –Henry Ramsey Field in Kissimmee.

With the win, Osceola (5–2, 2–0) extended its long-running district title streak, securing a playoff berth for the 19th consecutive season and its 13th district crown in the last 14 years.

The Kowboys overcame an early 10–7 deficit thanks to a quick scoring drive just before halftime, capped by Amaree Rutland’s 19-yard touchdown pass to Alijah Jenkins. From there, Osceola’s defense took control, forcing two fourth-down stops and a pair of late interceptions by Jamari Lofton, including one that sealed the victory in the final minutes.

Viera (4–3, 0–1) threatened several times in the second half but couldn’t break through Osceola’s tough defensive front.

The Kowboys’ game-winning formula came together in the final seconds of the first half. A crucial defensive stop, followed by a perfectly executed scoring drive in the last 34 seconds of the second quarter, gave Osceola the lead — and ultimately, the win.

Historic

Finish: St. Cloud, Harmony Share OBC Girls Title as Jurgen and Powell Shine with Four Gold Medals

Overall, St. Cloud won eight of the 11 swimming events.

Having a smaller squad, Adams had to count on the heroic efforts of just six swimmers. Those six, that including Jurgen and Powell, accounted for 146 of St. Cloud’s 152 team points.

Overnight Closures Scheduled for ChampionsGate Boulevard Under I-4 Beginning October 13

The Florida Department of Transportation has announced that ChampionsGate Boulevard (County Road 532) will be closed nightly under Interstate 4 (I-4) from Monday, October 13, through Wednesday, October 15, 2025, between 11:00 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

According to FDOT, the temporary closure is necessary as crews work to erect girders for improvements to the I-4 westbound bridge at ChampionsGate Boulevard. In addition, the dual left-turn lanes at both the I-4 eastbound and westbound off-ramps (Exit 58, Poinciana/Kissimmee) will also be closed during this period.

Detour Routes

Motorists traveling through the area are advised to follow detour signage and allow extra time for travel:

From I-4 Westbound (Exit 58): Turn right onto westbound ChampionsGate Blvd., then left on Ronald Reagan Parkway, left on Lake Wilson Road, and right onto westbound Osceola Polk Line Road (C.R. 532).

From I-4 Eastbound (Exit 58): Turn right onto eastbound Osceola Polk Line Road (C.R. 532), then right on Lake Wilson Road, right on Ronald Reagan Parkway, and right onto eastbound ChampionsGate Blvd. (C.R. 532).

Osceola Air Urges AC Check-Ups Before Fall—End-ofSummer Deals Available Now!

As summer continues to march on in Central Florida, the signs of the approaching school year are beginning to show. Backpacks are being dusted off, routines are slowly returning, and parents are preparing for the shift from long, hot summer days to the structure of fall. But while the school bells will soon be ringing, one thing isn’t cooling down just yet—the Florida heat.

Before your family dives into the busy back-to-school season, now is the perfect time to check in on your home’s air conditioning system. Osceola County’s trusted HVAC provider, Osceola Air, is encouraging homeowners to schedule an end-of-summer AC check-up—and they’re offering limited-time specials to help keep your system running strong through the final stretch of summer and well into the fall.

End-of-Summer Comfort Starts with a Pre-Season Check-Up

Even as we begin thinking about cooler months ahead, Florida’s heat can linger deep into the school season. A quick and professional system check-up can ensure your AC unit remains efficient, reliable, and ready to handle whatever weather comes next.

Osceola Air’s skilled technicians will inspect refrigerant levels, clean filters, check electrical components, calibrate your thermostat, and more—all to prevent mid-season breakdowns, lower your utility bills, and keep your family cool and comfortable.

Park Hopping

Your Wildest Car Ride Yet: Discover Animals from Around the World Right Here in Osceola County

With the school year back in full swing and education once again at the heart of our communities, there’s no better time to turn learning into an unforgettable, up-close adventure—and you don’t even need to leave your car to do it!

Located in the heart of Osceola County, just a short drive from Orlando, Wild Florida’s Drive-thru Safari Park offers families and animal lovers the rare opportunity to explore 170 acres of pristine Florida wilderness while encountering more than 150 exotic and native animals from across the globe.

From the safety and comfort of your own vehicle, you’ll cruise a four-mile trail and come face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, eland antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more.

It’s a self-guided journey that feels like starring in your own wildlife documentary— without ever boarding a plane.

Insider Tip: Your admission includes unlimited loops through the safari on the same day, so take your time and enjoy every wild encounter. (Note: Convertibles, motorcycles, and vehicles without doors or roofs aren’t permitted for safety reasons.)

But the adventure doesn’t stop there.

Park Hopping

SeaWorld Orlando Unveils Dazzling Christmas Celebration for 2025 Season

The magic of the holidays returns to SeaWorld Orlando this year as the park launches its Christmas Celebration, scheduled for select nights from November 7, 2025 through January 5, 2026.

Promising a winter wonderland full of lights, festive entertainment, and holiday cheer, this year’s event is included with regular park admission — no extra ticket required.

What to Expect

SeaWorld is pulling out all the stops with a lineup of seasonal highlights designed to appeal to families, local visitors, and holiday lovers alike:

Millions of sparkling lights will transform the park into a nighttime spectacle.

Sea of Trees – stroll past dozens of illuminated trees floating on the lagoon, synchronized to holiday music.

Holiday Reflections: Fireworks & Fountains Finale – nightly fireworks and fountain displays set to festive tunes will cap off each event day.

Winter Wonderland on Ice – a Broadway-style ice skating show featuring dazzling visuals and seasonal music.

Park Hopping

Disney’s Hollywood Studios to Launch ‘The Magic of Disney Animation’ in 2026 with Immersive Experiences

A whimsical, character-filled adventure is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026. “The Magic of Disney Animation” will transform the current Star Wars: Launch Bay into a magical, immersive experience inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and the beloved short film Once Upon a Studio.

Topped with Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat, the reimagined space invites guests into a playful version of a Disney animation studio—where, when the animators are away, the characters come out to play. The experience will take place inside the transformed building, drawing direct inspiration from the real-life Burbank studio and will include several interactive areas designed to bring families closer to the animation process and the characters themselves.

In the Production Gallery, visitors will see portraits come to life just like in Once Upon a Studio, while the Screening Theater will present a short animated film that’s sure to charm the whole family. Aspiring artists will also get the chance to learn how to draw fan-favorite Disney characters and even meet them in person.

Families with young children will especially enjoy “Drawn to Wonderland,” a brand-new indoor play area inspired by Mary Blair’s original concept art for Alice in Wonderland. The imaginative playground will include a musical oversized flower garden, a Mad Tea Party playset, and an interactive Tulgey Wood area for exploration and fun.

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.

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.