The Osceola Daily News for Wednesday February 26, 2025
154th Silver Spurs Rodeo: A Tradition of Excellence and a Heart for Giving
The 154th Silver Spurs Rodeo, held from February 20 to 23, once again delivered high-energy action, drawing fans both old and new to the Silver Spurs Arena. The excitement kicked off with the Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade on Saturday February 15, which rode back into the downtown streets.
Get Your Green On! St. Cloud to Host Annual St. Patrick’s
Celebration to Host Spring Porch & Yard Sale on Saturday
Old Town Celebrates 35 Years of the Iconic Saturday Nite
Bringing Love Home: $14 Pet Adoptions Available in Osceola County in February!
Silver Spurs Riding Club’s Special Rodeo: A Tradition
Osceola County’s NeoCity Expands Semiconductor
Community Celebrates at Taste of Kissimmee with Food & Music
The Wall That Heals: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Replica
Experience Empowerment and Laughter with ‘9 to 5
Around Osceola
In and Around Osceola
Boating With Brandon Episode One
Osceola County is on the verge of captivating its residents and visitors alike with a new video series that promises to explore its hidden natural treasures like never before. Titled “Boating with Brandon,” this 10-part series is hosted by District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington.“
Boating With Brandon Episode Two
“Boating with Brandon” not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Osceola County but also profiles the influential change-makers who are shaping its future. In this episode, viewers will experience the thrilling pace of Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures at Southport, guided by the skilled Captain Chris Bryan. Joining Commissioner Arrington is ClickOrlando’s Trooper Steve Montiero.
Boating With Brandon Episode Three
Joining Commissioner Brandon Arrington in Episode Three of "Boating With Brandon" is Osceola County Commissioner for District 5, Ricky Booth, who delves into the rich history and natural beauty of the county’s scenic waterways, including Trout Lake, Lake Lizzie, Buck Lake, and East Lake Tohopekaliga. This episode showcases the beautiful biodiversity in the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.
Don Schmidt Roofing
Wild Florida is one of Central Florida’s must-see gems. Take a look at their unique Albino Alligators! Schedule your next Animal Encounter at
Don Schmidt Roofing takes pride in every project by using only the
Coffee Talks LIVE
LIVE with Osceola County Fair General Manager Joel Rose
January 6, 2025
LIVE with Charlie Draper of Draper Law Office
December 19th, 2024
LIVE with Maryemma Bachelder, Director of Communications with the City of St. Cloud
December 10th, 2024
LIVE in the City of St. Cloud to swear in new Mayor Chris Robertson, Council Member Jennifer A. Paul, and Council Member Kolby Urban
November 14th, 2024
LIVE with Mayor of Kissimmee, Jackie Espinosa
November 6th, 2024
2025 Vendor
Friday, March 21, 2025 9 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.
Orlando Health Named One of the Best Places to Work in 2025, A Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award Winner
Orlando Health has been recognized as a winner of Glassdoor’s 17th Annual Employees’ Choice Awards, earning a spot among the Best Places to Work in 2025. What sets this award apart is that it is based entirely on feedback from employees, who voluntarily share anonymous reviews on Glassdoor, reflecting their experiences with the company, work environment, and overall job satisfaction over the past year.
"What makes this award so special is that it is based entirely on the feedback from our team members," says Karen Frenier, senior vice president, Human Resources and chief nurse executive, Orlando Health. "It's humbling to read the reviews and learn how our benefits, career development opportunities and unique culture have contributed to such a positive work environment for our team. I especially love seeing the comments about teamwork, and we are proud to support our team members as they daily go above and beyond for our patients."
When employees submit reviews about their employer on Glassdoor, they are asked to share their opinions on some of the best reasons to work for their employer (pros), any downsides (cons) and are encouraged to provide advice to management. In addition, employees are asked to rate how satisfied they are with their employer overall, rate their CEO and key workplace attributes,
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4gcEsKE
Silver Spurs Riding Club’s Special Rodeo: A Legacy of Love, Passion, and Inspiration
Decades ago, a touching story of love and inclusion began with Fran McLaughlin, a dedicated member of the Silver Spurs Riding Club. During a visit to the “Exceptional Rodeo” at the 1987 National Finals Rodeo, Fran was deeply inspired by what she witnessed. Motivated by her own child with special needs, she envisioned an event where all children in Osceola County, regardless of their abilities, could experience the excitement and joy of rodeo. From this vision, the Special Rodeo was born.
For over 30 years, the Special Rodeo has fostered a meaningful connection between Osceola County’s youth and the rich western traditions of the Silver Spurs Riding Club, offering children the opportunity to ride horses, rope a steer dummy, or sit atop the famous Big Blue Boot, all with the support of volunteers, rodeo queens, contestants, and club members.
The day concludes with cheers, trophies, and a celebration of the courage, spirit, and love these children bring to the event.
Today, the legacy of the Special Rodeo is carried forward by Silver Spurs Riding Club members Bridget Coggins and Sara Berlinski, and a huge team of passionate volunteers, like former Big Boss Gary Ketchum and others, who help the special kiddos get up on a horse before they make their way around the iconic Silver Spurs Rodeo dirt.
Get Your Green On! St. Cloud to Host Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with Parade, Live Music & More in March
Get ready to turn Downtown St. Cloud green as the city’s annual Paint the Cloud Green – Light Parade & Street Party returns on Saturday, March 15, from 7:30 PM to 11 PM. This St. Patrick’s Day-themed celebration promises an evening filled with live music, family fun, and festive energy, bringing the community together for one of the most anticipated events of the season.
A Parade of Lights and Community Spirit
The highlight of the night is the Light Parade, where floats decorated in glowing green will light up the streets, spreading Irish cheer along the way. The parade kicks off at Lakeshore Blvd., making its way through Pennsylvania Ave., 11th Street, Massachusetts Ave., and back to Lakeshore Blvd. Families, friends, and visitors are encouraged to line the route and enjoy the colorful displays and lively entertainment.+
Adding to the excitement, local organizations and businesses are invited to participate in the parade by registering a float. Those interested in being part of the celebration can contact St. Cloud Parks & Recreation at 407-957-7243 or parksandrecreation@stcloudfl. gov.
Osceola County School District Breaks Ground on New Transportation West Facility in Poinciana
The School District of Osceola County (SDOC) held a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday for its new Transportation West facility, which will be constructed on 65 acres in Poinciana. The state-of-the-art facility, expected to open in June 2026, will span 42,000 square feet and serve as the home base for 200 school buses.
For years, the district has operated a single transportation facility on Simpson Road in Kissimmee. The addition of the Transportation West hub, along with the upcoming Transportation East hub on Nova Road in St. Cloud set to open in two weeks, marks a significant step forward in enhancing the district’s transportation efficiency.
The Transportation West project is a partnership between SDOC, Bentley Architects + Engineers, and Charles Perry Partners, Inc. (CPPI). The new facility will include an Administrative/Fleet Maintenance Building, a Refueling/Bus Wash Depot, and a Bus Driver Restroom Pavilion.
The Administrative/Fleet Maintenance Building will house administrative offices, staff training spaces, and 12 maintenance bays equipped with storage for parts, batteries, tires, and bulk fluids.
Community Celebrates at Taste of Kissimmee with Food, Music, and Fellowship
The highly anticipated Taste of Kissimmee event took place on Friday, February 21 at Ruby Plaza in Kissimmee Lakefront Park, and it was a resounding success. The event brought together the community to celebrate local flavors, live music, and fellowship in a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
City Commissioners Jeanette Martinez, Noel Ortiz, and Deputy Mayor Angela Eady welcomed the crowd as attendees made their way around the Ruby Plaza area. The event featured an array of delicious fare samples from local restaurants and vendors, refreshing beverages, and captivating live music performances that kept the energy high throughout the evening, with the help of some outdoor heaters to offset the mildly chilly air.
The vendors, including Ruby Plaza Cafe, Big Johns Rockin BBQ, Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, Café Barista, Buster’s Real Ice Cream, Lechonera el Jibarito, Susana’s Café, Son Pastelitos, Gatorland, Toho Water Authority, Manila Grill Asian Fusion, and Onward Kissimmee, welcomed and greeted attendees with warm smiles, making it a memorable experience for all who attended.
Osceola County’s NeoCity Expands Semiconductor Innovation with UF Florida
NeoCity, Osceola County’s 500-acre technology hub, marked another major milestone on Tuesday in its mission to build a cutting-edge semiconductor ecosystem. The hub hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the University of Florida’s Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI), which has officially established offices at NeoCity’s OC Building. This addition further strengthens Osceola County’s position as a leader in semiconductor innovation and advanced technology development.
Ahead of the ribbon cutting, industry leaders, elected officials, and key stakeholders gathered for Coffee & Conversation at NeoCity, featuring a Leadership Spotlight with Dr. David P. Arnold, Director of the Florida Semiconductor Institute and George Kirkland Engineering Leadership Professor at the University of Florida. The event provided valuable insight into semiconductor research, workforce development, and the expanding impact of NeoCity as a global technology hub.
The Florida Semiconductor Institute serves as a statewide hub for semiconductor research, development, innovation, and workforce initiatives. Its expertise spans emerging materials, chip design, process development, microsystems, heterogeneous integration, advanced packaging, and cybersecurity, making it a key player in advancing the semiconductor industry.
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Central Florida Human Trafficking Task Force Hosts 5th Annual Red Sand Project Event
A refreshing collaboration between Experience Kissimmee and Celebration Brewing has resulted in a meaningful contribution to a community organization that makes a positive difference in and around Osceola County. On Friday, January 31, the two organizations presented a $1,000 check to the Healthy Start Coalition of Osceola County, raised through sales of the limited-edition sour beer, Citrus Kiss.
The fundraiser was a resounding success, with 2.5 barrels (approximately 100 gallons) of Citrus Kiss selling out in less than a week. This first-of-its-kind beer, inspired by the sunny essence of Kissimmee and Osceola County, featured vibrant citrus notes that resonated with the local community’s taste and spirit.
Jason Holic, CDME, Chief of Destination Stewardship for Experience Kissimmee, thanked the community’s enthusiasm and support. "Seeing Citrus Kiss come to fruition and witnessing the community's enthusiasm has been incredibly rewarding. The craft beer industry has a history of unwavering community support, and we are thrilled to have partnered with Celebration Brewing to uplift the vital work of the Healthy Start Coalition for the growing families of Osceola County."
The Healthy Start Coalition of Osceola County, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting maternal and child health, will use the funds to advance its mission.
Orlando Health’s Hospital Care at Home Hits 2,000-Patient Milestone in Central Florida
Orlando Health’s Hospital Care at Home program, which delivers acute hospitallevel care directly to adult patients in the comfort of their own homes, has successfully treated over 2,000 patients across Central Florida since its launch in February 2023.
The program, available to Orlando Health patients who meet specific clinical criteria determined by emergency department and hospital staff, is now available through Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, Orlando Health Emergency Room –Osceola, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Randal Park, Orlando Health Emergency Room – Lake Mary, Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. In June, Hospital Care at Home celebrated its 1,000th patient admitted into the program.
“This latest milestone reflects the significant growth of our program within less than two years of operation,” said Linda Fitzpatrick, assistant vice president, Orlando Health Hospital Care at Home. “It is a testament to our patients’ trust in this advanced healthcare model and the dedication of our care providers.”
NEWS
Mexican Developer MB Signature Properties Launches $250 Million Project in Kissimmee
MB Signature Properties, a real estate developer headquartered in Yucatán, Mexico, marked its entry into the Central Florida market last week with a groundbreaking ceremony for Princess Village. The event underscored the company’s $250 million investment in Osceola County and its commitment to job creation, international collaboration, and economic growth.
“This is more than just a development—it’s our legacy and commitment to bringing world-class projects to Central Florida while creating jobs and opportunities for the local community,” said Miguel Barbosa Marín, founder of MB Signature Properties. The ceremony brought together influential figures from government, business, and international sectors, reflecting the project’s far-reaching impact.
Among the groundbreaking attendees were:
Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington
Pedro Turushina, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Orlando
Governor María Teresa Jiménez Esquivel of Aguascalientes, Mexico
Consul Juan Sabines of the Mexican Consulate in Orlando
Gary Berrios, Director of Multicultural Affairs for Senator Rick Scott
OCSA Jazz Band A Selected to Compete in Essentially
Ellington Competition in NY
The Jazz at Lincoln Center has officially announced the top high school jazz bands in the nation chosen to compete in the 30th Annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, set to take place from May 7-11, 2025, in New York City. Among the elite finalists is the Osceola County School for the Arts Jazz Band A, led by director Jason Anderson.
This marks another significant achievement for the talented young musicians, who proudly represent not only their school and county but also the entire state of Florida. The Osceola County School for the Arts Jazz Band A is the only high school jazz band from Florida to earn a spot in this prestigious competition.
Last year, the Osceola County School for the Arts (OCSA) Jazz Band A delivered an incredible performance at the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, placing second behind Newark Academy from New Jersey. Alongside their strong finish, OCSA earned prestigious sectional awards, including Outstanding Rhythm Section and Outstanding Brass Section, cementing their reputation as one of the top high school jazz bands in the nation.
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Unveils
Expanded
Emergency Department
Last Wednesday, Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital proudly unveiled the expansion of its emergency department, marking the facility’s first operational expansion since 2018. This expansion is designed to accommodate the continuous growth in patient volume, with the addition of nine new patient rooms, bringing the total to 29 rooms in the emergency department. These enhancements will allow the hospital's team members to provide even more compassionate and efficient care, resulting in shorter wait times and quicker recovery for patients.
Marc Lillis, Chief Operations Officer, shared his thoughts on the expansion: "This expansion is a vital step in our commitment to providing exceptional care to our community. The additional rooms and new equipment will significantly enhance our ability to efficiently triage and treat patients, ensuring they receive the best possible care in a timely manner."
The event was attended by Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital President Brian Wetzel, Chief Operations Officer Marc Lillis, Chief Nursing Officer Stacy Jemtrud, members of St. Cloud Fire Rescue, Osceola County Fire Rescue, and numerous hospital staff.
Experience Empowerment and Laughter with ‘9 to 5 The Musical’ at Osceola Arts
Get ready to relive the bold spirit of the late 1970s as Osceola Arts brings “9 to 5 The Musical” to the stage. Based on the iconic 1980 film, this lively production features Dolly Parton’s celebrated music and lyrics, paired with Patricia Resnick’s sharp and witty book.
Set to captivate audiences, the story follows three determined female coworkers— Violet, Judy, and Doralee—who have had enough of their sexist, egotistical boss. In an unexpected twist, they devise a wildly imaginative plan to turn the tables on him, resulting in a workplace transformation that’s equal parts empowering and hilarious. Along the way, the trio discovers strength in solidarity, embracing a newfound confidence that changes their lives forever.
Performances begin this Friday, February 28, 2025, and run through Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Osceola Arts in Kissimmee. Special accommodations are available, including an Audio Described performance on Friday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m. and an American Sign
Bringing
Love
Home: $14 Pet
in Osceola County During February
District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington and State Senator Kristen Arrington are teaming up with Osceola County Animal Services to help residents find their perfect pet match this February—just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Throughout the entire month, pet adoptions will be just $14, making it more affordable than ever to bring home a new furry friend. To make the process even easier, every adoption includes a complimentary crate or pet carrier (while supplies last).
"February is all about love, and what better way to celebrate than by giving a shelter pet a loving home?" said Commissioner Brandon Arrington. "There are so many amazing animals in need of families, and we want to encourage our community to adopt, don’t shop. Every adoption saves a life.
According to Downey, her priorities include tackling the housing crisis with innovative solutions that balance development, strengthen infrastructure, and improve access to transit. She also plans to advocate for greater investment in arts and culture, which she believes can drive economic development, boost tourism, and enrich the local community. Downey says she will champion efforts to promote high-tech industries and forward-thinking strategies aimed at creating high-paying jobs, diversifying the economy, and reinforcing infrastructure.
81 Years of Tradition Continues: Silver Spurs Rodeo, Monster Bulls & Rodeo Parade Return to Osceola
The excitement of rodeo returns to Osceola County as the 154th Silver Spurs Rodeo gears up for a week of action-packed events, kicking off with the Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade and Monster Bulls on February 15, followed by four days of top-tier rodeo competition from February 20-23 at Osceola Heritage Park.
One of Florida’s most cherished rodeo traditions, the Silver Spurs Rodeo will feature the sport’s seven classic events, including bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, team roping, calf roping, and steer wrestling. Fans can also look forward to performances from the Silver Spurs Quadrille team and the humor of world-class rodeo clowns. With $100,000 in prize money on the line, the competition is set to be fierce as cowboys and cowgirls from across the country take center stage.
For Big Boss Randy Booth, this year’s event is about more than just the rodeo—it’s about upholding a tradition that has supported the community for decades.
“I am so honored to lead this organization as a fourth-generation Big Boss, following in the footsteps of my grandfather, father, and brother, who also served in this role,” Booth said. “My commitment remains to continuing the cherished traditions of the rodeo for all families while our board stays true to the club’s original purpose—giving
154th Silver Spurs Rodeo: A Tradition of Excellence and a Heart for Giving
The 154th Silver Spurs Rodeo, held from February 20 to 23, once again delivered highenergy action, drawing fans both old and new to the Silver Spurs Arena. The excitement kicked off with the Silver Spurs Rodeo Parade on Saturday February 15, which rode back into the downtown streets of St. Cloud, thrilling rodeo fans who live in and around St. Cloud and Osceola County, as well as visitors experiencing Osceola’s deep-rooted love for rodeo.
The parade set the stage for an unforgettable rodeo weekend, blending tradition, community pride, and thrilling competition.
Featuring bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and the fan-favorite bull riding, the Silver Spurs Rodeo once again lived up to its reputation as the largest professional rodeo east of the Mississippi. The addition of a Thursday night rodeo performance—free for Osceola students— marked a historic expansion in response to increasing demand. This move allowed more families and young rodeo fans to experience the thrill of the Silver Spurs Rodeo firsthand, fostering the next generation of rodeo enthusiasts.
The Wall That Heals: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Replica Coming to Kissimmee
A powerful tribute to the heroes of the Vietnam War is coming to Kissimmee Gateway Airport as The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be on display from March 13 – 16, 2025.
This moving exhibit, which includes a mobile Education Center, offers a meaningful opportunity for veterans, their families, and the community to honor, reflect, and heal.
Since its debut on Veterans Day in 1996, The Wall That Heals has visited nearly 700 communities nationwide, providing millions of visitors with a space to connect with their memories, pay tribute to fallen service members, and experience the memorial’s powerful message of healing.
Event Details and Opening Ceremony
The free, 24-hour public exhibit will open at Kissimmee Gateway Airport on March 13, remaining accessible until 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 16. Before its opening, the memorial will receive a special honorary escort into Kissimmee on March 11, followed by its assembly and setup in preparation for the display.
Osceola County Launches Updated SHIP Home Purchase Assistance Program
Residents and families in Osceola County now have a greater opportunity to achieve homeownership through the updated SHIP Home Purchase Assistance Program. This initiative is designed to make owning a home more accessible by providing financial support and guidance to eligible participants.
The updated program includes:
A maximum purchase price of $360,000 for single-family homes, townhomes, or condos located within Osceola County.
Strict adherence to program guidelines to ensure fair distribution of funds and resources.
To apply for assistance, participating lenders must email SHIP@osceola.org. For more details or questions, visit the Osceola County Housing and Community Services Office at 1392 E. Vine Street, Kissimmee, FL 34744, or call 407-742-8400.
This program is part of Osceola County’s commitment to creating opportunities for affordable homeownership, fostering stronger communities, and supporting families across the region.
Celebration to Host Spring Porch & Yard Sale on Saturday March 1
Calling all treasure hunters and bargain enthusiasts! The Spring Porch & Yard Sale is returning to Celebration on Saturday, March 1, 2025. From 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., residents will open their porches, yards, and garages, transforming the community into a vibrant marketplace filled with hidden gems and incredible finds.
Presented by Experience Kissimmee, this semi-annual event offers shoppers the opportunity to browse an array of goods, including antiques, collectibles, baby and children’s items, clothing, electronics, furniture, tools, and more. Whether you’re on the hunt for a rare vintage item or practical household goods, the Celebration Porch & Yard Sale promises something for everyone.
In addition to residential sales throughout the community, a designated area at Lakeside Park, located at 631 Sycamore Street, will feature even more offerings for visitors to explore.
Registration and Event Details
Residents interested in participating can register now at https://celebrationth.square. site/. Registration ensures a spot on the official event map, helping shoppers easily locate participating homes.
Old Town Celebrates 35 Years of the Iconic Saturday Nite Classic Car Show & Cruise
Old Town, the iconic walking district in Kissimmee known for its unique shops, dining, entertainment, and events, is gearing up to celebrate a major milestone—the 35th anniversary of its Saturday Nite Classic Car Show & Cruise on Saturday, March 15.
Recognized as America’s longest-running weekly car show, this classic event has remained a timeless tradition, taking place every Saturday night without interruption for the past 35 years. Guests are invited to step back in time and cruise down memory lane as Old Town welcomes an impressive lineup of show-quality hot rods, street rods, and antiques from 1985 and earlier.
Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply looking for a nostalgic evening filled with chrome, horsepower, and classic vibes, this anniversary celebration promises to be a night to remember!
The Car Show will begin at 11 a.m. with vehicles on display during the day, prior to the Car Cruise down Old Town’s Main Street at 8:30pm.
The Main Street stage will feature live bands throughout the day and night, and live “streetmosphere” entertainment for guests to enjoy. Old Town’s Saturday Nite Classic Car Show and Cruise are free for participants and free to attend.
Learn Local Government: Kissimmee’s 2025 School of Government Program Accepting Applications
The City of Kissimmee is now accepting applications for its 2025 School of Government program. This nine-week program offers an exclusive opportunity for individuals who live, work, or own a business within Kissimmee city limits to learn about local government operations, engage with city leaders, and understand how to best utilize government services. The program will feature presentations from city leaders, providing insights into the roles and functions of various City departments. Participants will also have opportunities to meet with representatives from key partner agencies.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4hROWQZ
Kissimmee Hosts Vibrant Black History Month Celebration at City Hall
Reception on Tuesday at the Rain Garden of Kissimmee City Hall. The evening brought together city officials, local artists, performers, and community members to honor the rich cultural heritage and contributions of African Americans in Kissimmee and beyond.
The event featured a compelling art exhibition by Osceola Arts, live musical performances, and an evening of recognition and celebration. WFTV Reporter Daryl Matthews emceed the event, guiding attendees through an evening filled with art, music, and cultural expression.
Throughout the evening, several talented artists and performers were recognized for their contributions to the community:
Black History Month Exhibition Artists:
Rick Arnold – Celebrating Black figures and loved ones as heroes, inspired by Saturday morning cartoons.
Renee Elizabeth – Blending influences from the Caribbean, the Carolinas, and Florida into vibrant reflections of home.
Hannah Forbes – Showcasing the beauty and strength of Black women through graphic
Osceola County Honors LaVell D. Monger with Lieutenant Lloyd Burton Jr. Service Award
Osceola County Commissioner Chairwoman Viviana Janer honored LaVell D. Monger with the prestigious Lieutenant Lloyd Burton Jr. Service Award on Monday, recognizing his outstanding leadership and community impact. The award was presented as part of the Board of County Commissioners’ Black History Month celebration, highlighting Monger’s dedication to making a difference in Osceola County.
Since moving to Central Florida in 2018, Monger, co-owner of RTW Photography, has combined business success with a deep commitment to public service. His leadership includes roles as Osceola County Planning Commissioner and board member for the Education Foundation and Osceola Chamber of Commerce.
"LaVell’s leadership is a testament to the power of community and service”, said Chairwoman Viviana Janer. “He brings passion, purpose, and a commitment to excellence in everything he does. His efforts inspire those around him to make a difference, and we are fortunate to have him in our community."
Monger serves as Vice Chair of United Way Emerging Leaders and has participated in leadership programs such as Leadership Osceola and Leadership Florida Connect. He was the 1st African American and youngest-ever St. Cloud Chamber Chairman.
PARK HOPPING
Explore the Wild Side: Drive-Thru Safari Park at
Wild Florida in Osceola County
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.
PARK HOPPING
SeaWorld Orlando Unveils World’s First Arctic Flying Theater, Opening Spring 2025
SeaWorld Orlando unveiled plans for its latest groundbreaking attraction planned to open in Spring 2025: the World’s firstof-its-kind Arctic flying theater. This new experience invites families to soar over icy landscapes, dive beneath frozen waters and come face-to-face with some of the planet’s most magnificent creatures.
From majestic beluga whales to awe-inspiring orcas and walruses, this adventure puts riders right in the middle of the action. It’s also all indoors, so rain or shine, this attraction guarantees a cool, thrilling escape for the entire family all year round.
READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4fSvjHj
INJURY LAW 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. 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.
VISIT OSCEOLA
Exploring Osceola County’s Natural Trails and Spaces: A Paradise for Avid Runners, Walkers, and Kayakers
Osceola County is a hidden gem for avid runners, walkers, and kayakers seeking a combination of physical fitness and natural beauty. Although the county is one of the fastest growing regions in Florida, its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and wellmaintained trails, offer a haven for those who want to stay active while immersing themselves in nature.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through ten of Osceola County’s finest locations where you can experience invigorating runs and leisurely walks amid breathtaking natural landscapes.
• Shingle Creek Regional Park:
Shingle Creek Regional Park, often referred to as the “Headwaters of the Everglades,” is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. This vast park offers a network of scenic trails suitable for running and walking. The trails wind through lush forests, along the banks of Shingle Creek, and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an intense trail run, Shingle Creek has something for everyone.
• Celebration Lakeside Park:
Celebration, a charming community in Osceola County, and known to many as the ‘Town that Disney built,’ boasts Celebration Lakeside Park, a beautiful destination for runners and walkers. The park features a loop trail around Lake Rianhard, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding greenery. The flat terrain and wellpaved paths make it an excellent choice for a leisurely walk or a brisk run.
HEALTH
Prostate Wellness: Dietary Choices from Orlando Health That Make a Difference
Eating right can keep your heart, digestion and brain functioning properly, but did you know a healthy diet can help your prostate, too? While there are certain factors outside of your control that affect prostate health, such as your age and family history, making healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent prostate problems.
Why Prostate Health Matters
An important part of a man’s reproductive system, the prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate produces fluid that contains enzymes, minerals and proteins that nourish and transport sperm.
Maintaining prostate health is important for men of all ages, but as you get older and risk increases for complications like incontinence, sexual dysfunction and prostate cancer, it’s even more essential.
HEALTH
Katelyn Tribble, RD, LDN
Orlando Health: Strengthen Your Aging Bones with Smart Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle Choices
As you grow older, it is inevitable that your bones will become more fragile. It’s simply part of your body’s natural life cycle. But that doesn’t mean you are powerless to slow the process – or bolster the strength of your bones to avoid osteoporosis.
From the time you are born, your bone tissue is constantly breaking down and rebuilding, through bone remodeling. The process operates at different rates throughout your life.
You reach peak bone mass in your 20s and then hit a period of stability throughout your 30s. But then sometime in your 40s and 50s, your bones start breaking down faster than your body can rebuild them.
From Family Feasts to Office Treats: Cowboy Chicken’s Thanksgiving Meals Perfectly Sized for Every Celebration
As Thanksgiving approaches, Cowboy Chicken is making holiday meals stress-free and delicious with their expanded turkey offerings, ensuring gatherings of all sizes are well-fed. From now until December 31, Cowboy Chicken offers handseasoned, juicy turkeys in a variety of meal packages to suit any occasion, whether it’s a large family gathering or an intimate meal for one.
Enjoy a nutritious and vibrant meal with Florida Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Salad. This positively delicious dish combines tender grilled chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, and fresh kale, tossed together for a wholesome and satisfying salad. Ideal for a lunch or light dinner, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy Florida’s fresh produce and proteins.
Sunshine in a Bowl: Florida’s Ultimate Tropical Fruit Salad, It’s Positively Delicious
This Florida Tropical Fruit Salad is a positively delicious celebration of Florida’s finest produce. This refreshing blend of colorful fruits is perfectly sweetened with a hint of local orange blossom honey, creating a delightful treat that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. Enjoy this luscious salad on a sunny day for a true taste of tropical paradise.
This Pan-Seared Florida Culotte Steak is a positively delicious choice for any meat lover, offering a rich and savory experience. This tender cut is expertly seared to achieve a perfect crust, locking in its natural juices and enhancing its robust flavors. Simple yet luxurious, this steak is sure to impress at any dinner table.
Coastal Cravings: Positively Delicious Florida Blue Crab Panini
This Florida Blue Crab Panini is a positively delicious twist on the classic sandwich. Bursting with the fresh, sweet flavors of local blue crab, this panini is grilled to crispy perfection, melding the delicate crab with a melty, creamy cheese. Ideal for a luxurious lunch or a satisfying dinner, it’s a gourmet treat that brings a taste of the Florida coast right to your table.
Indulge in the positively delicious flavors of a Florida Chicken, Mushroom, and Bacon Melt. This mouthwatering sandwich layers tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and crisp bacon under a blanket of melted cheese, all nestled between toasted bread.
Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of hearty, rich flavors, making it a perfect choice for a fulfilling meal.
