The Osceola Daily News for Saturday May 16, 2026

Saturday May 16, 2026

Museum of Military History to Host Armed Forces Day Event in St. Cloud Today Honoring Service Members The Museum of Military History will host a full day of activities in recognition of Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 16, bringing together veterans, families, and the community for a meaningful tribute to those who have served.

Around Osceola

St. Cloud to Honor Fallen Heroes on Memorial Day

OBC Athletic Awards Night Celebrates Students

Granny’s to Close Restaurant Doors Sunday

Silver Spurs Rodeo to Bring Bulls, Broncs & Patriot Pride

Kyndall Brown Named Teacher of the Year Finalist

Joey Fatone’s Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice

Orlando Health Facilities Named Best Places to Work

Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Veterans Day

Viviana Janer Celebrates Gateway High Senior

NEWS

It’s Very Important to Understand the Difference Between Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day ST. CLOUD, Fl. — As Memorial Day approaches later this month, organizations across the country are encouraging Americans to better understand the meaning behind the nation’s military-related holidays and the distinct purpose each one serves. Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day each honor different groups connected to military service and sacrifice.

Armed Forces Day, observed on the third Saturday in May, recognizes and honors the men and women currently serving in the United States military. The observance highlights active-duty members across all branches of service and acknowledges their ongoing commitment to protecting the nation.

As communities prepare to recognize Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 16, The Museum of Military History will host a day-long celebration honoring activeduty military personnel and veterans at the Grand Army of the Republic Hall in St. Cloud. The event will feature free admission from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., along with veteran resources, museum exhibits, and opportunities for the community to learn more about military history and service. A ticketed Armed Forces Dinner is also scheduled for 5:30 p.m. that day, with proceeds supporting the museum’s ongoing mission of preserving military history and honoring those who have served. The event is presented with support from Experience Kissimmee and will take place at 1101 Massachusetts Avenue in St. Cloud. For tickets to the dinner call 407.301.8424.

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NEWS

St. Cloud to Honor Fallen Heroes at Mount Peace Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 25

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — The City of St. Cloud will host its annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony on Monday, May 25, offering the community an opportunity to honor the men and women who lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

The ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. at Mount Peace Cemetery, located at 755 East 10th Street. The event will include remarks, tributes, and moments of reflection dedicated to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.

St. Cloud Honrará a los Héroes Caídos en la Ceremonia del Día de los Caídos en el Cementerio Mount Peace el Lunes 25 de Mayo ST. CLOUD, Fla. — La Ciudad de St. Cloud llevará a cabo su ceremonia anual de conmemoración del Día de los Caídos el lunes 25 de mayo, brindando a la comunidad la oportunidad de honrar a los hombres y mujeres que perdieron la vida mientras servían en las Fuerzas Armadas de los Estados Unidos.

La ceremonia está programada para las 10 a.m. en el Cementerio Mount Peace, ubicado en 755 East 10th Street.

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NEWS

Armed Forces Day Event in St. Cloud to Honor Service Members and Connect Veterans with Resources

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — The Museum of Military History will host a full day of activities in recognition of Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 16, bringing together veterans, families, and the community for a meaningful tribute to those who have served.

The event will take place at the Grand Army of the Republic Hall, located at 1101 Massachusetts Avenue in St. Cloud, and will feature a combination of educational exhibits, veteran support services, and an evening dinner honoring military service.

El Museo de Historia Militar Honrará a los Miembros de las Fuerzas Armadas con Evento Especial en St. Cloud ST. CLOUD, Fla. — El Museo de Historia Militar organizará un día completo de actividades en conmemoración del Día de las Fuerzas Armadas el sábado 16 de mayo, reuniendo a veteranos, familias y a la comunidad para rendir homenaje a quienes han servido.

El evento se llevará a cabo en el Grand Army of the Republic Hall, ubicado en 1101 Massachusetts Avenue en St. Cloud, y contará con una combinación de exhibiciones educativas, servicios de apoyo para veteranos y una cena especial en honor al servicio militar.

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NEWS

Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital Celebrates 1,500th Baby Birth Ahead of Mother’s Day ORLANDO, Fla. — Just ahead of Mother’s Day, Orlando Health announced a major milestone at its Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital, celebrating the 1,500th baby delivered at the hospital’s Center for Women and Babies since opening in January 2025. The milestone birth came on May 1 when baby girl Zoe was born to parents Ashley and Ian. According to Orlando Health, Zoe weighed 5 pounds, 13 ounces at birth, and both mother and baby are doing well.

Hospital officials said the achievement reflects the rapid growth of the Center for Women and Babies, which is part of the Orlando Health Women’s Institute and was designed to provide advanced maternity and women’s healthcare services closer to home for Central Florida families.

Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital Celebra el Nacimiento Número 1,500 Antes del Día de las Madres ORLANDO, Fla. — Justo antes del Día de las Madres, Orlando Health anunció un importante logro en el Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital al celebrar el nacimiento número 1,500 en su Center for Women and Babies desde su apertura en enero de 2025.

La bebé Zoe nació el 1 de mayo para sus orgullosos padres Ashley e Ian. Según Orlando Health, Zoe pesó 5 libras y 13 onzas al nacer, y tanto la madre como la bebé se encuentran en buen estado de salud.

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NEWS

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Among Three Orlando Health Facilities Named Best Places to Work ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Three hospitals within the Orlando Health system have been recognized nationally by Modern Healthcare as part of its 2026 Best Places to Work in Healthcare program.

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute, and Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital, each earned the national distinction, which recognizes healthcare organizations that foster positive workplace environments and employee satisfaction.

The recognition continues a strong streak for the healthcare system. Orlando Health officials said at least one Orlando Health hospital has been named to the Best Places to Work list for six consecutive years. Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital earned the honor for the fifth straight year, while Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute received the recognition for the third consecutive year.

Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital has now been recognized six times since 2020.

“Our three selected hospitals are among only 150 healthcare companies and organizations nationwide recognized by Modern Healthcare as best places to work,” said Colleen Harper, vice president of Human Resources for Orlando Health. “This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a culture where team members feel valued, supported and proud of the work they do.”

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NEWS

From Kissimmee to Disney: One Mother’s 35-Year Journey Creates a Family Legacy of Magic and Opportunity From family days at the parks and water parks to Disney Cruise Line vacations, Connie’s children grew up immersed in the Disney experience while watching their mother steadily build a career she loved.

Today, that story has come full circle.

Both of Connie’s children now work at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort while also attending Valencia College through Disney Aspire, the company’s education investment program.

Her son, Matthew, works in food and beverage, serving guests while pursuing a passion for pastry and culinary arts.

Her daughter, Aiyana, recently began her own Disney journey in recreation while studying business administration, with hopes of eventually stepping into a leadership role.

“Growing up, I always saw how much my mom cared about what she did,” Matthew said. “Watching her build a career here at Disney made me want to find something I’m passionate about too, and Disney has given me the chance to do that.”

For Aiyana, watching her mother’s dedication over the years became a powerful example of what was possible.

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NEWS

One Final Smoke: Award-Winning Granny’s Southern Smokehouse to Close Restaurant Doors Sunday in St. Cloud ST. CLOUD, Fla. — After more than a decade of serving what many across Osceola County consider some of the best barbecue in Central Florida, award-winning restaurateur Javarus “Jay” Brown has announced that Sunday, May 17, will mark the final day of restaurant operations for Granny’s Southern Smokehouse in downtown St. Cloud.

Located next to St. Cloud City Hall on Pennsylvania Avenue, Granny’s Southern Smokehouse has become a staple of the community, known for its slow-smoked meats, signature homemade sauces, and family-driven story rooted deeply in St. Cloud tradition.

Brown shared the emotional announcement with customers this week, saying the decision came after receiving an unexpected offer to purchase the building.

“After much consideration, I want to share that May 17 will be our final day of restaurant operations,” Brown said. “I’ve received an offer to purchase the building—one I simply couldn’t pass up.”

Brown added that while the restaurant itself is closing, the Granny’s Southern Smokehouse brand will continue.

“Granny’s Southern Smokehouse isn’t going away,” Brown said. “Our family will continue the brand, with plans already underway to transition our signature BBQ sauce into retail.

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NEWS

Red, White & Rodeo: 157th Silver Spurs Rodeo Brings Bulls, Broncs & Patriot Pride June 5–6; Tickets On Sale Now KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The iconic Silver Spurs Rodeo returns to Osceola County this summer for its 157th edition on Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6, 2026, bringing two nights of high-energy competition, family-friendly entertainment, and a celebration of western heritage to Silver Spurs Arena, with performances beginning at 7:30 p.m. each night.

Timed just as summer break begins for many students, the Silver Spurs Club is inviting families from across Central Florida to kick off the season with one of the region’s most anticipated traditions.

As the largest and longest-running rodeos east of the Mississippi, the Silver Spurs Rodeo continues to showcase the sport’s seven classic events: bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling, and women’s barrel racing. Each event highlights the athleticism, precision, and grit of cowboys and cowgirls competing for top honors and prize money.

Fans can expect heart-pounding moments as riders attempt to conquer powerful bulls, skilled ropers race against the clock, and barrel racers navigate tight turns in pursuit of victory. The event combines professional rodeo competition with a lively atmosphere that has become a staple of Osceola County’s cultural identity.

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NEWS

Champions, Coaches, Schools, and Scholars Recognized During 2025-26 OBC Athletic Awards Night OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — For the fourth time in five years and the 13th time since opening in 2004, Harmony High School sits on top the Orange Belt Conference as the county’s top overall athletic program.

The Longhorns were officially named recipients of the OBC All-Sports Award on Thursday night at the annual OBC Honors Dinner held at Heritage Park. With points being awarded on a 8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 basis based on OBC Championship finishes in 24 sports, the Longhorns edged out arch-rival St. Cloud, 152.5-151.5.

Campeones, Entrenadores, Escuelas y Estudiantes Destacados Fueron Reconocidos Durante la Noche de Premios Atléticos de la OBC 2025-26 Por cuarta vez en cinco años y la 13ª ocasión desde su apertura en 2004, Harmony High School se encuentra en la cima de la Orange Belt Conference como el mejor programa atlético general del condado.

Los Longhorns fueron oficialmente nombrados ganadores del Premio All-Sports de la OBC el jueves por la noche durante la cena anual de honores de la OBC celebrada en Heritage Park. Con puntos otorgados bajo un sistema de 8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 según los resultad os de los campeonatos de la OBC en 24 deportes, los Longhorns superaron por un estrecho margen a su rival St. Cloud, 152.5 a 151.5.

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NEWS

State Senator Kristen Arrington Applauds Signing of Animal Cruelty Protection Law She Sponsored With Rep. Chaney Florida has expanded its animal cruelty protections after Governor Ron DeSantis officially signed CS/HB 559 into law Tuesday, strengthening criminal penalties for animal abuse and adding new safeguards involving crimes committed in the presence of children or involving minors. The legislation was co-sponsored by State Senator Kristen Arrington alongside State Representative Linda Chaney.

Arrington said the new law focuses on prevention, accountability, and protecting vulnerable animals and children across Florida communities.

“This legislation is about prevention, compassion, and ensuring that children grow up in safe and healthy environments,” Senator Arrington added. “I am grateful to work on initiatives that protect our children and our animals, and I am thankful for the diligence and dedication from legislative partners, advocates, law enforcement professionals, and community members who helped support this effort.”

Arrington said the legislation strengthens protections for animals and children by increasing penalties for acts of animal cruelty committed in the presence of a minor or involving a child, while also supporting intervention efforts aimed at preventing future abuse.

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NEWS

Disney Surprises Central Florida Educators, Invests $1.3 Million in Regional Education Programs KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Walt Disney World is celebrating the end of the school year by investing $1.3 million into education initiatives across Central Florida while also bringing a preview of its upcoming “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” celebration directly to local elementary schools, including one in Osceola County.

The announcement, made Thursday, highlights Disney’s continued partnership with public schools and nonprofit education organizations throughout the region, benefiting students and educators in Osceola, Orange, Lake, Polk, and Seminole counties.

Disney Sorprende a Educadores del Centro de Florida e Invierte $1.3 Millones en Programas Educativos Regionales

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Walt Disney World está celebrando el final del año escolar con una inversión de $1.3 millones en iniciativas educativas en toda Florida Central, mientras lleva un adelanto de su próxima celebración “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” directamente a escuelas primarias locales, incluyendo una en el Condado Osceola.

El anuncio, realizado el jueves, destaca la continua colaboración de Disney con escuelas públicas y organizaciones educativas sin fines de lucro en toda la región, beneficiando a estudiantes y educadores en los condados de Orange, Osceola, Lake, Polk y Seminole.

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NEWS

Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute Making a Positive Impact in the St. Cloud Community with Specialized Care ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Sitting down over a cup of coffee in Downtown St. Cloud, just a stone’s throw from St. Cloud City Hall and the St. Cloud Greater Osceola Chamber of Commerce, Positively Osceola’s Keith Ronan recently joined Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute Physician Assistant Rick Ordon for a conversation about the value and convenience of having advanced orthopedic care available right in the Greater Osceola County community.

During the discussion, Ordon highlighted how the Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute walk-in clinic in St. Cloud is helping patients receive specialized orthopedic care quickly and conveniently, often without the need for an emergency room visit.

Ordon, who has served patients in Osceola County for the past 20 years, explained that the orthopedic walk-in clinic gives residents direct access to orthopedic specialists for a wide range of injuries and conditions affecting all areas of the body.

The clinic commonly treats sprains, strains, sports-related injuries, stress fractures, tendonitis, arthritis, back pain, and sports concussions for both adults and pediatric patients ages 2 and older. One of the clinic’s biggest advantages, Ordon noted, is that patients can walk in without an appointment and begin receiving treatment immediately.

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NEWS

Harmony Middle’s Kyndall Brown Named Florida Teacher of the Year Finalist, Among Top 5 Educators in the State OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — An Osceola County educator known for bringing hands-on agricultural learning and real-world experiences into the classroom has been recognized among the top teachers in the state of Florida.

The Florida Department of Education announced Monday that Kyndall Brown, an agriculture teacher at Harmony Middle School, has been named one of five finalists for the 2027 Florida Teacher of the Year award.

Brown was selected from 74 district teachers of the year statewide, with the overall 2027 Florida Teacher of the Year expected to be announced in July.

“Kyndall Brown represents the best of Florida’s educators, making a lasting impact through her dedication to students and her contributions to school success,” said Anastasios Kamoutsas.

“Congratulations, Kyndall, on the well-earned distinction of being named a state teacher of the year finalist. This recognition is a testament to the meaningful difference you make each day.”

According to the Florida Department of Education, Brown has become known for combining innovation, leadership, and practical learning opportunities in her classroom while teaching agriscience to students in grades 6 through 8.

At Harmony Middle School, Brown developed and implemented a standards-based agriscience curriculum that impacts more than 200 students annually.

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NEWS

Free Beer Returns to SeaWorld Orlando With Daily Guest Samples at Waterway Grill Patio ORLANDO, Fla. — Free beer is once again flowing at SeaWorld Orlando as the popular Central Florida theme park has brought back complimentary beer samples for guests 21 and older at Waterway Grill Patio.

According to SeaWorld Orlando, eligible guests can receive one free 7-ounce beer sample per day beginning at 12 p.m. and continuing until one hour before park closing for a limited time.

SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members will receive an added perk, with two complimentary 7-ounce beer samples available each day at the same location.

La Cerveza Gratis Regresa a SeaWorld Orlando con Muestras Diarias para Visitantes en Waterway Grill Patio ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Orlando anunció el regreso de su popular oferta de cerveza gratis para visitantes mayores de 21 años.

Los visitantes podrán recibir una muestra gratuita de cerveza de 7 onzas por día en el Waterway Grill Patio desde las 12 p.m. hasta una hora antes del cierre del parque. Los miembros Pass Members recibirán dos muestras gratuitas diarias.

Además, el parque ofrece especiales diarios de “Happy Hour” con cervezas draft, vinos y cocteles en diferentes bares dentro de SeaWorld Orlando.

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NEWS

Joey Fatone’s Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice Coming to Universal CityWalk Orlando ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort is adding another celebrity-backed dining location to its entertainment district as Joey Fatone’s Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice prepares to open at Universal CityWalk later this year.

The new restaurant, founded by former *NSYNC member Joey Fatone and business partner Joe Mulvihill, will replace the longtime Hot Dog Hall of Fame location at CityWalk Orlando, which is expected to close in July after more than a decade in operation.

According to Universal Orlando and multiple theme park industry reports, Fat One’s will feature “creative, flavor-packed hot dogs, Italian ices, and more” as part of CityWalk’s continuing transformation and expansion of dining and entertainment offerings.

Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice de Joey Fatone Chegará ao Universal CityWalk Orlando ORLANDO, Fla. — O Universal Orlando Resort adicionará mais um restaurante ligado a celebridades ao seu distrito de entretenimento com a chegada do Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice, de Joey Fatone, ao Universal CityWalk ainda este ano. Segundo o Universal como parte da contínua renovação das opções gastronômicas e de entretenimento do CityWalk.

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NEWS

Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Reminds Voters to Renew Vote-by-Mail Requests for 2026 Elections OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — The Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Office is reminding voters that vote-by-mail requests must be renewed for each election cycle, as required under Florida law.

Supervisor of Elections Mary Jane Arrington announced that the office is mailing notices to registered voters across Osceola County who currently do not have an active vote-by-mail request on file for the 2026 election cycle.

According to the Elections Office, Florida voters who wish to receive a vote-by-mail ballot must submit a new request each election cycle. Officials say the deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot is 12 days prior to an election.

Supervisora de Elecciones del Condado Osceola Recuerda a los Votantes Renovar sus Solicitudes de Voto por Correo para las Elecciones de 2026

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Una investigación de varios meses sobre una vivienda problemática en St. Cloud terminó con el arresto de 11 personas la mañana del jueves, luego de que la policía ejecutara una orden de allanamiento en una casa ubicada en West New Nolte Road.

Según el St. Cloud Police Department, oficiales trabajaron junto al Kissimmee Police Department en la residencia ubicada en 810 W. New Nolte Road, propiedad que había generado más de 40 llamadas de servicio en lo que va del 2025.

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NEWS

Addition Financial Launches Patient-Designed Debit Card Supporting Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital Addition Financial Credit Union has unveiled a new affinity debit card benefiting Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, giving members a new way to support pediatric healthcare in Central Florida simply by using their debit card for everyday purchases.

The co-branded Addition Financial Orlando Health Visa Debit Card was officially introduced in partnership with Orlando Health Foundation and features artwork created by sisters Celeste, 7, and Gabi, 10, both patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

Addition Financial Lanza Tarjeta de Débito Diseñada por Pacientes en Apoyo al Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children y la Atención Pediátrica Addition Financial Credit Union has unveiled a new affinity debit card benefiting Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, giving members a new way to support pediatric healthcare in Central Florida simply by using their debit card for everyday purchases.

The co-branded Addition Financial Orlando Health Visa Debit Card was officially introduced in partnership with Orlando Health Foundation and features artwork created by sisters Celeste, 7, and Gabi, 10, both patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital

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SPORTS

St. Cloud Flag Football Standout Deishalee Pena Trinidad Signs With Davenport University ST. CLOUD, Fla. — St. Cloud High School senior Deishalee Pena Trinidad officially signed to continue her academic and athletic career at Davenport University during a special ceremony held Monday at St. Cloud High School.

Pena Trinidad, a standout member of the Lady Bulldogs flag football program, earned the opportunity following an impressive senior season in which she made an impact on both sides of the ball.

Offensively, she recorded 35 receptions for 344 yards and five touchdowns, helping lead the Bulldogs throughout the 2025-2026 season. Defensively, Pena Trinidad added 44 flag pulls, four interceptions, and nine pass deflections, establishing herself as one of the team’s top all-around players.

Family members, teammates, coaches, school administrators, and staff gathered for the signing ceremony to celebrate the milestone achievement and recognize the dedication and hard work that helped her reach the collegiate level.

Pena Trinidad will continue her flag football career at Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, while also pursuing her academic goals.

Her signing marks another proud moment for St. Cloud High School’s growing flag football program and its continued success in developing student-athletes both on and off the field.

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NEWS

Commissioner Viviana Janer Celebrates Gateway High Senior During Adopt a Senior Event OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Viviana Janer recently recognized Gateway High School senior Aviance Sanchez during the 2026 Adopt a Senior celebration, honoring the student’s accomplishments, dedication, and plans for the future.

During the event, Commissioner Janer congratulated Sanchez as she prepares to graduate and begin the next chapter of her academic and professional journey.

Sanchez plans to pursue a career in either Medical Sonography or Veterinary Medicine, both fields focused on caring for and helping others.

The Adopt a Senior initiative continues to shine a spotlight on graduating students throughout the School District of Osceola County, while encouraging them as they transition from high school into college, career training, and future professions.

La Comisionada Viviana Janer Celebra a Estudiante de Último Año de Gateway High Durante Evento Adopt a Senior Viviana Janer reconoció recientemente a la estudiante de último año de Gateway High School, Aviance Sanchez, durante la celebración de Adopt a Senior 2026, destacando los logros, la dedicación y los planes futuros de la estudiante.

Durante el evento, la comisionada Janer felicitó a Sanchez mientras se prepara para graduarse y comenzar el próximo capítulo de su trayectoria académica y profesional.

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NEWS

Osceola School District Named Guy Harvey Conservation District for 2025-2026 School Year OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — The School District of Osceola County has been officially named a Guy Harvey Conservation District for the 2025-2026 school year, recognizing the district’s growing commitment to environmental education, conservation awareness, and hands-on learning opportunities for students and educators.

The designation comes through the Guy Harvey Conservation Education Program, an initiative designed to strengthen environmental STEAM education through teacher professional development, experiential learning opportunities, and conservation-focused leadership.

“We are inspired by the work and commitment of the educators and schools in the Osceola School District that, through the Guy Harvey Conservation Education Program, promote marine science and strengthen conservation education,” said Jessica Harvey, CEO of the Guy Harvey Foundation. “The program supports scientific research, advances education, and drives advocacy that protects marine ecosystems to keep the ocean a place for exploration for generations to come.”

According to the district, the program provides educators with access to regional professional development opportunities centered around environmental STEAM education.

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NEWS

Osceola Council on Aging Calling for Volunteer Drivers to Deliver Meals and Make a Positive Difference for Local Seniors The Osceola Council on Aging is calling on members of the community to step forward and volunteer as Meals on Wheels drivers, helping deliver nutritious meals and friendly check-ins to homebound seniors across Osceola County.

According to the organization, many seniors in the community are currently waiting for volunteers to help deliver their meals. For those receiving the service, the brief visit from a volunteer driver often means far more than just food—it provides safety, connection, and reassurance that someone is looking out for them.

The Osceola Council on Aging says volunteering requires only a small commitment but can make a significant difference in someone’s life.

Drivers typically spend just 60 to 90 minutes delivering meals, and volunteers can choose to help once a week or even just a few times each month.

Using their own vehicle, volunteers are assigned a route where they deliver meals and check in with seniors who depend on the program. For many of those individuals, the volunteer may be the only person they see that day.

“No special skills are required, and training is provided,” the organization said.

“What matters most is having compassionate volunteers willing to give a little of their time.

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NEWS

Osceola Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto’s Office Offers Virtual Queue System to Improve Customer Service The Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller has officially entered a new era of customer service with the rollout of its virtual queue system, a modernization effort designed to reduce wait times and improve the overall courthouse experience for visitors.

The system reflects Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto’s continued commitment to efficiency, accessibility, and innovation across county services.

With the virtual queue now fully operational, visitors can join the line digitally using their smartphones upon arrival.

Guests simply scan a QR code located near the elevators on the second floor to enter the queue, eliminating the need to wait in traditional lines.

Once checked in, visitors receive real-time notifications on their phones when a customer care representative is ready to assist them, allowing individuals to wait comfortably in their vehicles, a nearby coffee shop, or designated courthouse waiting areas.

The system also streamlines check-in for residents with scheduled marriage or passport appointments, who are able to confirm their arrival through an email or text message upon entering the courthouse.

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LEGAL NEWS Draper Law: Which vehicles are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents?

Sadly, serious and fatal accidents take place on a daily basis in Central Florida.

These crashes can happen in a number of ways and can be caused by not following traffic laws, inexperience, intoxication, distracted driving, fatigue, and medical issues.

Statistics show that fatal car accidents can often occur based on the type of vehicle. You may think that sports cars are most likely to be in crashes due to their speed and performance. However, according to the NHTSA, it’s the everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs on the roadways that are involved more frequently in serious or even deadly accidents, with sedans and pickup trucks accounting for more than three-quarters of fatal accidents.

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PARK HOPPING

Go Wild This Spring: Wild Florida’s Gator Week Returns May 25–30 with Up-Close Encounters, Live Feedings, Family Fun KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A popular Central Florida attraction is preparing to spotlight one of the state’s most recognizable—and often misunderstood—reptiles as Wild Florida Adventure Park gets ready to host its annual Gator Week later this spring.

The weeklong event, scheduled for May 25–30, will take place at Wild Florida Adventure Park in Osceola County, and is expected to draw families, wildlife enthusiasts, and visitors from across the region.

Gator Week centers on education and conservation, offering guests a closer look at the behavior and role of alligators in Florida’s ecosystem.

Through a series of daily programs and demonstrations, park staff aim to dispel common misconceptions about the reptiles while emphasizing safety and environmental awareness.

Among the featured activities are live feeding demonstrations, where visitors can observe alligators up close during scheduled “Feeding Frenzy” presentations.

Interactive elements, including a gator call competition and themed trivia, are also planned as part of the event’s lineup.

In addition to alligators, attendees will have opportunities to learn about other reptile species housed at the park, including crocodiles and caimans, as well as participate in animal encounters designed to engage younger visitors.

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PARK HOPPING

SeaWorld Orlando Unveils Massive Summer Entertainment Lineup Featuring New Drone Show, Nighttime Spectaculars ORLANDO, Fla. — Summer nights at SeaWorld Orlando are about to get louder, brighter, and more electrifying as the park prepares to launch one of its biggest summer entertainment lineups ever beginning June 12.

From an all-new drone spectacular and returning nighttime animal presentations to fireworks, cirque-style performances, immersive lighting environments, and high-energy dance parties, SeaWorld Orlando is transforming its park into a fullscale nighttime celebration for the summer season.

At the center of it all is the return of Electric Ocean, SeaWorld Orlando’s signature summer event that takes over the park after sunset with music, lights, live entertainment, and family-friendly experiences around nearly every corner.

“This summer, SeaWorld is raising the bar across the country—combining really enjoyable and fun nighttime shows and presentations, cutting-edge drone displays, exciting new experiences and nonstop family fun,” said Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Resorts, SeaWorld’s parent company.

One of the biggest additions this summer will be SeaWorld Orlando’s brand-new drone spectacular, featuring hundreds of synchronized drones soaring above the park to create glowing ocean-inspired scenes, sea creatures, rolling waves, and vibrant animations choreographed to music.

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Lighten the Load.

We’re Here.

Care for All Emergencies.

We know emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. With ER locations throughout Central Florida, we’re ready to provide care in any emergency. You’ll find a place where chaos meets calm, and uncertainty finds answers. OrlandoHealth.com/ER 2906 17th St. | St. Cloud, FL 34769