The Osceola Daily News for Sunday April 12, 2026

Sunday April 12, 2026

Thrive Studios Opens in Kissimmee, Offering Hope, Housing, and a Path Forward for Families in Need A transformative new chapter in addressing housing instability in Osceola County officially began Friday as Hope Partnership celebrated the grand opening of Thrive Studios, a newly redeveloped residential community designed to support families on their journey toward self-sufficiency.

Around Osceola

St. Cloud to Honor Fallen Heroes on Memorial Day

Orlando Health St. Cloud Joins Operation Skyfall

Universal Orlando: 35 Years of Halloween Horror Nights

Caribbean Fusion Back to Kissimmee April 26

“I Am Enough” 5K & Fun Run Returns May 2

St. Cloud Chamber's 44th Annual Golf Tournament

Spring Brings Earth Day Celebration to St. Cloud

Osceola Showcases Future of Innovation at NSTEM Day

Wild Florida’s Gator Week Returns May 25–30

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

SeaWorld Orlando Receives Fresh Lettuce Donation from Duda Farms to Boost Care for Rescued Manatees ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Orlando is continuing its efforts to care for rescued manatees with the help of a major donation from Duda Farms Fresh Foods, which delivered 70 boxes of locally grown romaine lettuce Tuesday morning—providing a vital supply for the SeaWorld Rescue team that uses about 60 boxes daily to feed the manatees in its care.

SeaWorld Rescue is presently caring for around 30 rescued manatees, many of which require consistent access to fresh, nutrient-rich food as part of their recovery process before returning to Florida’s waterways.

SeaWorld Orlando recibe donación de lechuga fresca de Duda Farms para mejorar el cuidado de manatíes rescatados ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Orlando continúa sus esfuerzos para cuidar a los manatíes rescatados con la ayuda de una importante donación de productos frescos por parte de Duda Farms Fresh Foods.

El martes por la mañana, Duda Farms entregó 70 cajas de lechuga romana cultivada localmente para apoyar el trabajo continuo de rehabilitación del parque.

La donación representa un suministro significativo para el equipo de rescate de SeaWorld, que utiliza aproximadamente 60 cajas de lechuga cada día para alimentar a los manatíes bajo su cuidado.

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NEWS

Thrive Studios Opens in Kissimmee, Offering Hope, Housing, and a Path Forward for Families in Need KISSIMMEE, Fla. /April 10, 2026 — A transformative new chapter in addressing housing instability in Osceola County officially began Friday as Hope Partnership celebrated the grand opening of Thrive Studios, a newly redeveloped residential community designed to support families on their journey toward self-sufficiency.

Located along West Vine Street, Thrive Studios represents the conversion of the former Crown Motel on U.S. Highway 192 into permanent, trauma-responsive studio apartments for individuals experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.

The project is part of Hope Partnership’s broader mission to provide not only shelter, but the tools and support systems needed for long-term success.

Thrive Studios Abre en Kissimmee, Ofreciendo Esperanza, Vivienda y un Camino Hacia Adelante para Familias en Necesidad KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Un nuevo capítulo transformador en la lucha contra la inestabilidad de vivienda en el Condado de Osceola comenzó oficialmente el viernes cuando Hope Partnership celebró la gran apertura de Thrive Studios, una comunidad residencial recientemente renovada diseñada para apoyar a las familias en su camino hacia la autosuficiencia.

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NEWS

“I Am Enough” 5K & Fun Run Returns May 2, Celebrating Women’s Health and Empowerment in St. Cloud

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — A message of empowerment, wellness, and community will take center stage at St. Cloud's Lakefront Park on May 2 as the “I Am Enough” 5K & Fun Run/Walk returns, inviting participants of all fitness levels to come together in support of women’s health.

Participants can choose to run or walk the 5K course, with organizers emphasizing that all experience levels are welcome — from first-time participants to seasoned runners. Check-in for the event will begin at 5:30 a.m., with the race officially starting at 7:00 a.m.

“I Am Enough” 5K y Carrera/Caminata Recreativa regresa el 2 de mayo, celebrando la salud y el empoderamiento de la mujer en St. Cloud ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Un mensaje de empoderamiento, bienestar y comunidad tomará protagonismo en el Lakefront Park de St. Cloud el 2 de mayo con el regreso del “I Am Enough” 5K y Carrera/Caminata Recreativa, invitando a participantes de todos los niveles a unirse en apoyo a la salud de la mujer.

Los participantes podrán correr o caminar el recorrido de 5K, y los organizadores destacan que todos los niveles de experiencia son bienvenidos.

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NEWS

Four Corners Leaders Launch New Regional Chamber of Commerce to Advance Growth, Collaboration Across County OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — A new chapter in regional cooperation is underway across Central Florida, as leaders from Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Polk counties officially transition their long-standing Four Corners Commissioners Task Force into a newly formed business-led organization aimed at strengthening collaboration and supporting continued growth.

After years of coordinated efforts addressing shared challenges such as transportation, infrastructure, public safety, and environmental stewardship, the Task Force is concluding its work in its current form. In its place, the 4 Corners Chamber of Commerce, Inc., which will carry forward and expand.

Líderes de Four Corners Lanzan Nueva Cámara Regional para Impulsar el Crecimiento y la Colaboración Una nueva etapa de cooperación regional está en marcha en el centro de Florida, ya que líderes de los condados de Lake, Orange, Osceola y Polk han anunciado la transición del Four Corners Commissioners Task Force hacia una nueva organización liderada por el sector empresarial, enfocada en fortalecer la colaboración y apoyar el crecimiento continuo.

Después de años de trabajo conjunto abordando desafíos compartidos como el transporte, la infraestructura, la seguridad pública y la protección ambiental, el grupo de trabajo concluye sus funciones en su forma actual.

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NEWS

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Expands Breast Cancer Screening with Advanced 3D Mammography

Patients in Osceola County now have access to advanced breast cancer screening technology close to home as Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital introduces 3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis.

The new imaging technology enhances traditional mammograms by creating a three-dimensional image of the breast. Instead of capturing a single flat image, 3D mammography takes multiple images from different angles, allowing radiologists to examine breast tissue layer by layer.

This added depth improves the ability to detect small, invasive cancers earlier and is especially beneficial for patients with dense breast tissue.

Medical experts say the technology not only improves cancer detection but also reduces unnecessary callbacks for additional imaging, helping provide patients with clearer answers sooner.

“Every clearer image represents an opportunity to detect cancer at an early stage, which means more treatment options that are typically less invasive,” said Sara Ardila, MD, breast surgical oncologist with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute — St. Cloud.

“When patients can access advanced screening close to home, they are more likely to stay consistent with annual mammograms."

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NEWS

Valencia College Student Cesar Parra of Kissimmee Named 2026 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholar KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Valencia College student and Kissimmee resident Cesar Parra has been named a 2026 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholar, earning national recognition for his academic achievement, leadership, and service.

Selected from a competitive pool of community college students nationwide, Parra will receive a $1,300 scholarship through the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Parra will graduate from Valencia College in May with two AAs through the Seneff Honors College before transferring to UCF to study computer engineering.

Estudiante de Valencia College es nombrado becario del Equipo Académico Coca-Cola 2026

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — El estudiante de Valencia College y residente de Kissimmee, Cesar Parra, ha sido nombrado becario del Equipo Académico Coca-Cola 2026, obteniendo reconocimiento a nivel nacional por su excelencia académica, liderazgo y servicio.

Seleccionado entre un competitivo grupo de estudiantes de colegios comunitarios en todo el país, Parra recibirá una beca de $1,300 a través de la Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation y la Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

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NEWS

Taste of Kissimmee Returns Friday, May 8 to Lakefront’s Ruby Plaza with Food, Music, and Community Celebration KISSIMMEE, Fla. — One of Kissimmee’s most anticipated community events is set to return as the “Taste of Kissimmee,” presented by the City of Kissimmee and sponsored by Experience Kissimmee, once again delivers an evening of flavor, entertainment, and community spirit along the city’s scenic lakefront.

The event will take place on Friday, May 8, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kissimmee Lakefront Park – Ruby Plaza, located at 201 Lakeview Drive, offering a vibrant outdoor experience for residents and visitors alike.

Taste of Kissimmee Regresa el Viernes 8 de Mayo al Ruby Plaza del Lakefront con Sabor, Música y Comunidad

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Uno de los eventos comunitarios más esperados de Kissimmee está de regreso, ya que “Taste of Kissimmee,” presentado por la City of Kissimmee y patrocinado por Experience Kissimmee, vuelve a ofrecer una noche llena de sabor, entretenimiento y espíritu comunitario en el pintoresco lakefront de la ciudad.

El evento se llevará a cabo el viernes 8 de mayo de 2026, de 5 p.m. a 8 p.m. en Kissimmee Lakefront Park – Ruby Plaza, ubicado en 201 Lakeview Drive, brindando una experiencia al aire libre vibrante para residentes y visitantes.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4vhgN4n

NEWS

Spring Brings Earth Day Celebration to St. Cloud with Vendors, Wildlife, and Family Fun April 25 at Veterans Library ST. CLOUD, Fla. — As spring takes hold in Central Florida, the City of St. Cloud is inviting residents to welcome the season with a community-focused Earth Day Celebration filled with hands-on activities, education, and family-friendly fun.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Library – St. Cloud Branch, located at 810 13th Street. Admission is free and open to the public.

La primavera trae la Celebración del Día de la Tierra a St. Cloud con vendedores, vida silvestre y diversión familiar el 25 de abril en la Biblioteca de Veteranos ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Con la llegada de la primavera al centro de Florida, la Ciudad de St. Cloud invita a los residentes a darle la bienvenida a la temporada con una Celebración del Día de la Tierra enfocada en la comunidad, llena de actividades prácticas, educación y diversión para toda la familia.

El evento está programado para el sábado 25 de abril, de 10 a.m. a 1 p.m., en la Biblioteca Conmemorativa de Veteranos – Sucursal de St. Cloud, ubicada en 810 13th Street. La entrada es gratuita y está abierta al público.

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NEWS

Poinciana Council Announces 2026 Scholarship Winners / El Consejo de Poinciana anuncia a los ganadores de las becas POINCIANA, Fla. — Five local students have been awarded scholarships through the The Osceola Chamber’s Poinciana Council.

The awards are part of the council’s annual scholarship program, which supports graduating seniors and, for the third straight year, students already enrolled in post-secondary programs living in the Poinciana area (ZIP codes 34758, 34759 and 34746).

Four $1,000 scholarships were funded through community donations and council events. Additional funding from an Osceola County Government Community Betterment Grant, secured by Commissioner Brandon Arrington, allowed matching funds.

El Condado financia el quinto año del programa Osceola Prosper POINCIANA, Fla. — Cinco estudiantes locales han sido galardonados con becas a través del Consejo de Poinciana de la Cámara de Osceola.

Las becas forman parte del programa anual del Consejo, que apoya a estudiantes de último año de secundaria y, por tercer año consecutivo, a estudiantes ya inscritos en programas de educación postsecundaria que residen en el área de Poinciana (códigos postales 34758,

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NEWS

St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce Announces 44th Annual Golf Tournament at Royal St. Cloud Golf Links Golfers, business leaders, and community members are invited to hit the links this spring as the St. Cloud Greater Osceola Chamber of Commerce prepares for its 44th Annual Golf Tournament, set for May 8, 2026, at Royal St. Cloud Golf Links.

Presented by Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, the long-running community event brings together local businesses and supporters for a day of golf, networking, and philanthropy. Proceeds from the tournament help support the St. Cloud Chamber Foundation Scholarship Fund, which provides educational opportunities for local students.

La Cámara de Comercio de St. Cloud anuncia el 44.º Torneo Anual de Golf en Royal St. Cloud Golf Links Golfistas, líderes empresariales y miembros de la comunidad están invitados a salir al campo esta primavera, ya que la Cámara de Comercio Greater Osceola de St. Cloud se prepara para su 44.º Torneo Anual de Golf, programado para el 8 de mayo de 2026 en el Royal St. Cloud Golf Links.

Presentado por Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, este evento comunitario de larga trayectoria reúne a negocios locales y colaboradores para un día de golf, networking y filantropía.

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NEWS

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, St. Cloud Fire Rescue Join Mass Casualty Exercise to Strengthen Emergency Response ST. CLOUD, Fla. — A large-scale emergency preparedness effort unfolded across Central Florida Thursday morning as Orlando Health hospitals joined more than 100 facilities in what officials describe as the largest medical surge exercise in the nation, known as Operation Skyfall.

The full-scale mass casualty training, coordinated by the Central Florida Disaster Medical Coalition, took place from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and brought together hospitals, emergency responders, law enforcement, and healthcare facilities across multiple counties to test their ability to respond to a major incident.

Positively Osceola was on-site at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital.

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital y St. Cloud Fire Rescue participan en el ejercicio de víctimas masivas Operation Skyfall para fortalecer la respuesta a emergencias.

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Un esfuerzo de preparación ante emergencias a gran escala se llevó a cabo el jueves por la mañana en toda la Florida Central, ya que los hospitales de Orlando Health se unieron a más de 100 instalaciones en lo que los funcionarios describen como el ejercicio de aumento de capacidad médica más grande del país, conocido como Operation Skyfall.

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NEWS

Osceola Chairman Brandon Arrington to Host “Mega Bingo” Event for Osceola County Seniors in Kissimmee KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Osceola Chairman and County Commissioner for District 3 Brandon Arrington is inviting local residents ages 55 and up to enjoy an afternoon of fun, connection, and prizes at a special “Mega Bingo” event on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tierra Pointe Apartments Clubhouse, located at 4659 Old Pleasant Hill Road in Kissimmee.

Open to Osceola County residents ages 55 and older, the gathering aims to bring the community together through engaging bingo games, social interaction, and a welcoming atmosphere. Attendees can expect a lively experience featuring multiple rounds of bingo, fun activities, and opportunities to win prizes throughout the afternoon.

El Presidente Brandon Arrington Organizará Evento “Mega Bingo” para Adultos Mayores del Condado de Osceola en Kissimmee KISSIMMEE, Fla. — El presidente del Condado de Osceola y comisionado del Distrito 3, Brandon Arrington, está invitando a los residentes locales de 55 años o más a disfrutar de una tarde de diversión, conexión y premios en un evento especial de “Mega Bingo” el miércoles 22 de abril de 2026, de 1 p.m. a 3 p.m., en el clubhouse de Tierra Pointe Apartments, ubicado en 4659 Old Pleasant Hill Road en Kissimmee.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/41pFkqr

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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NEWS

Caribbean Fusion Festival Set to Bring Island Vibes Back to Kissimmee Lakefront Park April 26

The rhythms of the islands, the aroma of authentic Caribbean cuisine, and the vibrant colors of cultural celebration will once again fill the waterfront as the Caribbean Fusion Festival returns to Kissimmee Lakefront Park on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from noon to 7 p.m. at the Veterans Lawn.

Now celebrating 36 years in operation, the free, family-friendly festival is hosted by the Caribbean and Floridian Association, Inc. (CAFA), a longtime community organization dedicated to promoting Caribbean culture, unity, and service throughout Central Florida.

El Festival Caribbean Fusion traerá nuevamente el ambiente isleño al Kissimmee Lakefront Park el 26 de abril Los ritmos de las islas, el aroma de la auténtica cocina caribeña y los vibrantes colores de la celebración cultural volverán a llenar el paseo frente al lago cuando el Caribbean Fusion Festival regrese al Kissimmee Lakefront Park el domingo 26 de abril de 2026, de 12 p.m. a 7 p.m., en el Veterans Lawn.

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

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4deq72y

PARK HOPPING

Universal Orlando Celebrates 35 Years of Fear with the Return of Halloween Horror Nights in August ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort is preparing to mark a major milestone this fall as its globally recognized Halloween Horror Nights returns for its 35th year, running select nights from August 28 through November 1.

Billed as the “World’s Premier Halloween Event,” this year’s celebration will span 48 nights at Universal Studios Florida and is expected to be the most expansive in the event’s history. Organizers say the 2026 edition will feature 10 all-new haunted houses, immersive scare zones, live entertainment, and themed street experiences—along with additional surprises still to be announced.

Universal Orlando Celebra 35 Años de Terror con el Regreso de Halloween Horror Nights

ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort se prepara para celebrar un importante hito este otoño con el regreso de su reconocido a nivel mundial Halloween Horror Nights, que llega a su 35.º aniversario y se llevará a cabo en noches selectas del 28 de agosto al 1 de noviembre.

Considerado como “el principal evento de Halloween del mundo”, la celebración de este año se extenderá por 48 noches en Universal Studios Florida y se espera que sea la más grande en la historia del evento. Los organizadores señalan que la edición 2026 contará con 10 casas embrujadas completamente nuevas, zonas de terror inmersivas, entretenimiento en vivo y experiencias temáticas en las calles,

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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