The Osceola Daily News for Sunday January 4, 2026

Sunday January 4, 2026

‘Keeping the Dream Alive’: Kissimmee Hosts Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration January 17

The City of Kissimmee will bring the community together in celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration, set for Friday, January 17, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kissimmee Lakefront Park, Veterans Lawn.

Around Osceola

Run for the Cherubs 5K Returns to St. Cloud Feb 7

Osceola School District to Host Orientation Nights

Orlando Health St. Cloud Celebrates We Build Intern

KUA to Host Free Outdoor Movie Friday January 9

Silver Spurs Rodeo Charges Into 2026 With Big Events

Rare Ferraris and Thousands of Cars to Headline Mecum

2026: Hope Partnership CEO Mary Lee Downey

2026; Orlando Health St. Cloud Pres. Brian Wetzel

Chamber of Commerce to Host Three Kings Day

NEWS

‘Keeping the Dream Alive’: Kissimmee Hosts Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration January 17

The City of Kissimmee will bring the community together in celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Celebration, set for Friday, January 17, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kissimmee Lakefront Park, Veterans Lawn.

The family-friendly event is designed to honor Dr. King’s enduring message of unity, diversity, and compassion, while inspiring attendees to continue his vision of service and equality. Through live music, spoken word, and cultural performances, the celebration aims to “Keep the Dream Alive” by highlighting the power of community connection.

The Unity Celebration will be hosted by Tyesha Williams and will feature performances from members of Full Sail University Black Student Union, including Ayira Baptise, known as “YIRI,” and Dyvine Phoenix (Erica Gray). Their performances will reflect themes of empowerment, reflection, and hope that align with Dr. King’s legacy.

The event is supported by community-focused sponsors, including Experience Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority, and Toho Water Authority. Community partners such as the Osceola NAACP, the Black Empowerment Coalition, and Full Sail University’s Black Student Union will also take part in the program.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44K0HVq

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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

NEWS

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Celebrates First WE BUILD Intern Graduate, Welcomes Marco Vivas as Team Member The cafeteria at Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital was filled with applause, pride, and heartfelt emotion last week as hospital staff, leadership, and family gathered to celebrate a meaningful milestone — the graduation of Marco Vivas, the hospital’s first graduate of the Orlando Health WE BUILD Program.

Positively Osceola was on scene as the hospital community came together to honor Marco’s completion of the 12-week paid internship program, which is designed to create pathways to employment for individuals with unique developmental and learning abilities. The celebration brought together dozens of staff members, the hospital’s President and CEO Brian Wetzel, and Marco’s mother, who proudly watched as her son was recognized for his hard work and growth.

Throughout his time in the WE BUILD program, Marco worked alongside the hospital’s Environmental Services and Food & Nutrition teams, gaining hands-on experience while developing both job-specific and interpersonal skills. His journey through the program showcased what is possible when opportunity is paired with mentorship, encouragement, and a supportive workplace culture.recognizing Marco’s accomplishments and progress.

During the celebration, the Orlando Health team — often described by staff as a family — surprised Marco with a cake decorated with one of his favorite themes, Spider-Man.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4jr7Lwf

NEWS

2026: A New Year, A New Hope: Orlando Health St. Cloud Pres.

Brian Wetzel on Expanding Patient Care Close to Home In Positively Osceola’s 2026 — A New Year, A New Hope series, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital President Brian Wetzel shares how investment in people, facilities, and innovation is improving care today—while shaping a stronger healthcare future for 2026.

Every accomplishment Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital celebrated in 2025 reflects our unwavering commitment to our patients who trust us with their healthcare needs.

We proudly earned recertification as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission, a recognition of our ongoing efforts to provide fast, life-saving care when every second matters.

The addition of nine patient rooms and new equipment in our emergency department has reduced wait times and helped patients return home sooner to recover.

We also introduced an after-hours dining service so patients who miss regular meal hours due to treatment, testing or late admission can still enjoy a comforting meal as they begin healing.

Being named a “Best Place to Work” by Modern Healthcare for the fourth consecutive year highlights a culture in which our team members are valued, supported and encouraged to grow.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44Y617Q

NEWS

2026: A New Year, A New Hope: Hope Partnership CEO Reverend Mary Lee Downey on Building Hope Through Community As part of Positively Osceola’s 2026 — A New Year, A New Hope series, Hope Partnership CEO Reverend Mary Lee Downey reflects on how collective action, care, and housing-first solutions are transforming hope into lasting impact—while looking ahead to a year defined by dignity, stability, and the opening of Thrive Studios.

At the start of 2025, I often found myself asking a simple question: What does hope look like when it becomes real? By the end of the year, I had my answer.

Hope, I learned, looks like meals being shared, showers running, names being restored – and a community choosing to show up, again and again.

This year at Hope Partnership was defined by that kind of collective effort.

Through Hope Cares Day alone, we served more than 4,500 meals and provided over 1,500 showers to more than 1,100 neighbors. With the support of partners like AdventHealth, we launched a fully mobile shower trailer, doubling our capacity and allowing us to meet people where they are. We also expanded access to primary health care, including prescriptions and chronic disease management, for those who too often go without routine care.

Behind the scenes, our team focused on the quieter work of prevention and restoration.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/495LGzZ

NEWS

Silver Spurs Rodeo Charges Into 2026 With a Full Season of Events and a Strong Commitment to Community Osceola County’s rodeo tradition rides strong into the new year as the Silver Spurs Club announces a full slate of events for 2026, led by Spurs Big Boss Kaye Whaley, combining competitive rodeo action, long-standing traditions, and a continued dedication to giving back to the community it calls home.

From parades and specialty bull riding events to championship PRCA rodeos spread throughout the year, the Silver Spurs Rodeo season once again offers something for fans of all ages, beginning this February in Downtown St. Cloud.

Rodeo Season Kicks Off With Parade in Downtown St. Cloud The 2026 season officially gets underway with the Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade, stepping off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, in Downtown St. Cloud.

The parade traces its roots back to the early days of the Silver Spurs Club, when it was created as a modest promotional event for the rodeo itself. In its earliest years, the parade traveled through Downtown Kissimmee along Broa dway, drawing residents who lined the streets to cheer, connect with neighbors, and celebrate Osceola County’s agricultural and western heritage.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/45CkxlL

NEWS

2026: A New Year, A New Hope: Hope Partnership CEO Reverend Mary Lee Downey on Building Hope Through Community Osceola County and NeoCity are inviting families, students, and curious minds of all ages to experience the excitement of science and innovation during Community STEM Day at NeoCity, a free, hands-on event designed to spark curiosity and showcase the power of learning through exploration.

Community STEM Day will take place Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the NeoCity OC Building, located at 194 NeoCity Way in Kissimmee.

The afternoon event will feature interactive activities, engaging learning stations, and opportunities for attendees to explore science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and accessible way. From hands-on experiments to up-close looks at innovation in action, the event is designed to inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers.

Organizers say Community STEM Day is perfect for families looking for an educational outing, as well as students and community members eager to learn more about emerging technologies and the work happening at NeoCity — Osceola County’s growing hub for innovation and advanced industry.

The event encourages participants to learn, explore, and discover what’s possible, while connecting the community to the future of STEM education and career pathways right here in Osceola County.

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

NEWS

Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Launches New, UserFriendly Website The Osceola County Supervisor of Elections has officially launched a newly redesigned website aimed at improving accessibility, usability, and the overall voter experience for residents across Osceola County.

Supervisor of Elections Mary Jane Arrington announced the updated site on December 17, highlighting its modern design, simplified layout, and voter-focused features.

The refreshed platform offers a cleaner look while continuing to provide voters with all the essential information they need, including registration details, election dates, polling locations, and voting resources.

Importantly, the website’s web address remains the same. Voters can continue to access election information by visiting www.voteosceola.gov, ensuring a seamless transition for residents familiar with the site.

The redesign reflects the office’s ongoing commitment to transparency, efficiency, and public service, making it easier for voters to navigate election-related information ahead of upcoming local, state, and federal elections.

For additional information, residents may contact the Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Office at 407-742-6000.

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

NEWS

KVLS Celebrates Its Legacy While Looking Ahead to a Bright Future as the 2026 Osceola County Fair Approaches As Osceola County looks toward the return of the Osceola County Fair, running February 13–22, 2026, and sponsored by Orlando Health, KUA, Ford, Florida Coast Equipment, and Experience Kissimmee, one message rings clear across the community, its youth, and its agricultural leaders: The Legacy continues.

For generations, the Kissimmee Valley Livestock Show (KVLS) has stood at the heart of Osceola County’s agricultural identity. Long before the annual fair became one of the most anticipated community events in Central Florida, KVLS was investing in young people, strengthening local agriculture, and ensuring that Osceola County’s heritage remained not only preserved—but lived. Today, KVLS continues that mission with energy, purpose, and a vision for the future that is stronger than ever.

A Rich History Rooted in Community and Agriculture Founded on the values of hard work, family, education, and community service, KVLS has evolved from a local livestock show into a thriving, multi-generational organization that powers one of the largest fairs in Florida. What began as a simple showcase of local cattle and livestock has become a dynamic force for agricultural advocacy and youth development.

For decades, KVLS has been a cornerstone for FFA, 4-H, and youth exhibitors across Osceola County—offering educational opportunities, hands-on experience,

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3Ljb3F6

NEWS

Osceola School District to Host Orientation Nights for Incoming Sixth and Ninth Grade Students The School District of Osceola County will host Student Orientation Nights this January to help students and families prepare for the 2026–2027 school year.

The events are designed for students entering sixth or ninth grade, along with their parents or guardians, and offer an opportunity to become familiar with their future schools before the academic year begins.

During Orientation Nights, families will have the chance to meet school principals and key staff members, tour campuses, learn about academic programs, and explore extracurricular opportunities such as athletics, clubs, and arts programs.

Attendees will also receive important information about schedules, transportation, school policies, and tips to support a smooth transition into middle or high school.

INCOMING SIXTH GRADE ORIENTATION NIGHT Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026 Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Locations: Middle schools and K–8 schools Note: Osceola County School for the Arts will not participate in the districtwide sixth-grade Orientation Night.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3L2pygG

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.

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

NEWS

5th Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K Returns to St. Cloud February 7, Honoring Love, Life, and Community

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — More than a race, the 5th Annual Run for the Cherubs 5K is a powerful expression of love, remembrance, and community compassion as it returns to Lakefront Park & Marina on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

Hosted by the Graham J. Cowan Foundation, the annual event brings together runners, walkers, families, and supporters from across Central Florida for a morning that honors tiny lives, supports grieving families, and helps improve care for the most vulnerable newborns.

At the heart of the Run for the Cherubs is the story of Graham John Cowan, whose brief life inspired a mission that continues to touch countless families. Graham was stillborn at 21 weeks in 2016, a loss that forever changed his family’s lives. In the midst of grief, his parents chose to transform that pain into purpose—creating the Graham J. Cowan Foundation to ensure no family facing infant loss walks alone.

What began as a way to honor their son has grown into a movement of compassion, focused on supporting bereaved families, sharing resources, and raising awareness about infant loss while also strengthening neonatal care.

Through community events like the Run for the Cherubs, the Foundation keeps Graham’s memory alive by helping others heal.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/44LHjaE

NEWS

Rare Ferraris and Thousands of Cars Headline Mecum Kissimmee Auto Auction, January 6-18 The world’s largest collector car auction returns to Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida, January 6–18, 2026, with thousands of vehicles crossing the block in what has become a bucket-list event for automotive enthusiasts from across the nation and globe.

Now in its signature winter run, Mecum Kissimmee 2026 will feature an estimated 4,500 vehicles, ranging from classic muscle cars and vintage automobiles to rare exotics and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Ferrari Royalty: The Bachman Collection Headlines One of the most compelling attractions this year is the Phil and Martha Bachman Ferrari Collection, a private assemblage of 46 iconic Ferraris that will be offered at no reserve during the Kissimmee auction.

The collection represents nearly half a century of Ferrari history, including legendary models like the track-only Ferrari FXX, LaFerrari, Enzo, F50, F40, and more — many in pristine, low-mileage condition with impeccable provenance.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see and bid on such a lineup is expected to be a highlight for collectors and fans alike.

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

NEWS

Osceola County Officially Launches OLLie, Its Mobile Library Bringing Books, Wi-Fi, to Neighborhoods

Osceola County, led by Commissioner Viviana Janer for District 2, library staff, and community members gathered Tuesday morning at Osceola Library’s Buenaventura Lakes branch for the official unveiling of OLLie, the library’s new mobile library unit designed to bring books, technology, and library services directly into neighborhoods across the county.

Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer, representing District 2, described OLLie as “a library on the move”—a flexible, modern option that will help the county reach residents who don’t live near a branch.

“By bringing story time, tech help, Wi-Fi, materials for checkout, and library resources right to the residents’ doorsteps, we are ensuring everyone has access to learning and connection,” Janer said. “We don’t want to leave anybody out in Osceola County.”

Coming in at a cost of about $140,000, the new mobile unit is outfitted with features designed to support families, students, and seniors. OLLie includes solarpowered energy, an onboard generator, an exterior awning and TV for outdoor games, books, toys and materials for all ages. Inside, residents will find five Chromebooks for tech tutoring, Wi-Fi hotspots capable of supporting up to 100 devices, and on-site printing, and more.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3MpmlI8

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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3ptK6Uz

NEWS

KUA to Host Free Outdoor Movie Night at Kissimmee Lakefront Park Friday, January 9

Families across Osceola County are invited to enjoy a free movie night under the stars as Kissimmee Utility Authority hosts an outdoor screening of How to Train Your Dragon on Friday, January 9, at Kissimmee Lakefront Park.

The evening of family-friendly fun begins at 5:30 p.m. with a variety of free activities, including popcorn, inflatable games, creative crafts, and a photo booth.

Guests will also have the opportunity to enter prize giveaways for a chance to win special surprises throughout the night.

At 7 p.m., the main event takes center stage as the beloved animated film lights up a massive 50-foot outdoor screen.

Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to get comfortable while watching the story of Hiccup, Toothless, and their friends—a tale of friendship, courage, and adventure that continues to delight audiences of all ages.

Admission to the event is free, and the movie night is open to the entire community. The event is proudly presented by Kissimmee Utility Authority in partnership with the City of Kissimmee.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4qwuA48

NEWS

Osceola Chamber of Commerce to Host Annual Three Kings Day Celebration at Old Town on Sunday January 11 An iconic Osceola County tradition returns in January as the Osceola Chamber’s annual Three Kings Day celebration takes over Old Town in Kissimmee on Sunday, January 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Now in its nearly 20th year, the family-friendly event is free to attend, includes free parking, and is open to the entire community—bringing a day of generosity, celebration, and community spirit to the heart of Kissimmee.

The chamber’s Three Kings Day is designed to celebrate kindness, tradition, and giving—ensuring children and families can enjoy a memorable experience together, presented by AdventHealth, A Day Filled with Fun, Food, and Festivities Families attending the event can look forward to a wide variety of free activities and giveaways throughout the day. Highlights include: Attendeed can meet three real camels, offering a magical Three Kings experience at the AdventHealth booth Free hot dogs, sponsored by Florida Technical College, with grilling provided by the Knights of Columbus. The Three Kings photobooth is sponsored by Kissimmee Utility Authority. Popcorn, snow cones, snacks, and other treats available while supplies last.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4qvp5m9

Park Hopping

Seven Seas Food Festival Brings Oceans of Global Flavors Back to SeaWorld Orlando in 2026

Get ready to embark on a culinary voyage like no other at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival, returning from late January through early May 2026.

Whether you’re a devoted foodie or simply looking for family-friendly fun, this open-air festival delivers an unforgettable experience with more than 200 unique food and beverage offerings designed to satisfy every palate.

Guests can sample flavors from over 50 global cuisine selections, paired perfectly with 75 wines and cocktails and 75 craft beers from around the world. From savory bites to indulgent desserts, the festival invites visitors to explore international tastes while enjoying refreshing drinks and the vibrant atmosphere that defines SeaWorld’s signature seasonal events.

Live entertainment fuels the festival atmosphere throughout the season, featuring performances across rock, country, Latin, and nostalgic ’90s throwback favorites.

Special themed celebrations — including Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo — add even more excitement on select dates.

Beyond the food, the Seven Seas Food Festival pairs perfectly with SeaWorld Orlando’s thrilling roller coasters and up-close animal encounters, creating a fullday adventure for guests of all ages. With world-class cuisine, live music, and iconic attractions, the festival remains one of SeaWorld Orlando’s most anticipated events.

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

Park Hopping

Walt Disney World Unveils Exciting Lineup of Attractions, Events and Experiences for 2026

Walt Disney World Resort is preparing for an exciting year ahead, announcing a wide range of new attractions, refreshed experiences, live entertainment, and returning seasonal events set to debut throughout 2026.

The newly released details outline a full calendar of offerings designed to appeal to families, thrill-seekers, and longtime Disney fans, with enhancements planned across all four theme parks and beyond.

New and Updated Attractions Early 2026 will bring updates to EPCOT’s popular Frozen Ever After, featuring enhanced Audio-Animatronics for Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff that offer smoother movement and more expressive details.

At Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is scheduled to reopen following an extensive refurbishment, while Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will debut refreshed ride vehicles and upgraded interactive features, improving gameplay and guest engagement.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will see several notable additions, including Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, a reimagined version of the fan-favorite attraction that places the beloved Muppets at the center of the high-speed adventure.

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

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, upclose 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.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4mnDsY7

Park Hopping

Universal Orlando to Celebrate Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval in 2026

Universal Orlando Resort is bringing the spirit of New Orleans back to Central Florida as Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval returns to Universal Studios Florida in 2026, delivering weeks of festive parades, global cuisine, and live entertainment.

The annual celebration will run from February 7 through April 4, 2026, transforming the theme park into a vibrant, bead-filled celebration inspired by the traditions of Mardi Gras and Carnaval celebrations from around the world.

Nightly Parades & Street Festivities At the heart of the event is Universal’s nightly Mardi Gras parade, featuring elaborate floats, energetic street performers, and thousands of colorful beads tossed to cheering guests. The parade winds through Universal Studios Florida, creating a lively, immersive experience filled with music, dancing, and Mardi Gras flair.

International Flavors & New Orleans Favorites Food lovers can enjoy a wide selection of Carnaval-inspired food and beverages, with kiosks serving dishes representing cultures from around the globe. Guests can also indulge in classic New Orleans favorites such as beignets, gumbo, jambalaya, and other Cajun- and Creole-inspired offerings.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/48XIMx8

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