Harmony Life December 2025

DECEMBER 2025

A PESTFREE HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS THE PUBLICATION FOR THE RESIDENTS OF HARMONY Photo: Abbey Evans Photography

Health • Disability • Long Term Care Short Term Insurance • Supplemental • Life • Medicare Dental • Vision • Small and Large Group Benefits

Call Today to Save Money on Your Healthcare & Life Insurance Kim Kirsch Insurance Broker / District Manager 407.870.3462 • kkirsch@myhst.com

Letter From the Publisher Hello Harmony!

DECEMBER 2025 A Publication of Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC

Welcome to the December 2025 issue of Harmony Life Magazine!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year here in Harmony — and you can tell by the glow of Christmas lights, the smell of cookies in the air, and at least one neighbor who started decorating before Halloween (you know who you are!).

December is a season filled with light, love, and the kind of togetherness that makes our community shine.

As we wrap up another incredible year, I can’t help but feel grateful for all the moments, memories, and milestones that have made 2025 so special. From community gatherings and school events to new neighbors moving in and familiar faces lending a helping hand, this year has been a beautiful reminder of what makes Harmony so unique. We’ve celebrated achievements big and small, supported one another through challenges, and continued to build a neighborhood where kindness truly lives next door.

As always, Harmony Life wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our local businesses. This month, we’re thrilled to welcome and celebrate our newest sponsors who help keep our community connected: • Happily Ever After Cleaning – Bringing sparkle, shine, and peace of mind to Harmony homes. Their friendly, reliable team takes pride in helping families spend more time enjoying the holidays and less time worrying about chores.

• D’oro Pizza and Subs – The perfect spot for a family night out or a quick bite after a holiday event. We’re so lucky to have this local favorite right here in the neighborhood • Harmony Pet Nanny – For all your pet care needs, Harmony Pet Nanny is here to help! Whether it’s dog walking, pet sitting, or just giving your furry friends a little extra love while you’re away, April and her team treat every pet like family.

• Fit Train – Helping Harmony residents stay strong, healthy, and energized! Fit Train offers personalized fitness programs and expert coaching to help you meet your goals — the perfect way to kick off a healthy new year.

As we head into a brand-new year, I want to personally thank every reader, advertiser, and contributor who has been part of this magazine’s journey. Your encouragement and enthusiasm have turned Harmony Life into something truly special — a reflection of the heart of Harmony itself.

From my family to yours, wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas, a joyful holiday season, and a bright, peaceful New Year!

With warmest regards,

Contact Info for Residents CDD Email: askharmonycdd@pfm.com Maintenance: cddmaintenance@bermancorp.com Website: www.harmonycdd.org Dan Leet boardmember1@harmonycdd.org Jo Phillips boardmember2@harmonycdd.org Brittany Coronel boardmember3@harmonycdd.org Lucas Chokanis boardmember4@harmonycdd.org Julie Williams boardmember5@harmonycdd.org

SHERIFF, NON-EMERGENCY 407-348-2222 HROA Association Solutions 811 Mabette St., Kissimmee 407-847-2280, www.MyHOASolution.com CONDOS HOA Association Solutions, 407-847-2280 TOWNHOMES HOA Association Solutions, 811 Mabette St., Kissimmee, 407-847-2280, www.MyHOASolution.com SPECTRUM CABLE / INTERNET 877-892-3279 CENTURY LINK CABLE / INTERNET 866-314-4148 OUC ELECTRIC 407-957-7373 ADVANCED DISPOSAL – OSCEOLA 407-605-3892 3501 Pug Mill Rd., Kissimmee, FL 34741 OsceolaFL@advanceddisposal.com OSCEOLA COUNTY Osceola.org - “Citizen Action Center” COUNTY COMMISSIONER RICKY BOOTH ricky.booth@osceola.org

Brady Evans The opinions expressed in the Harmony Life Magazine articles are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the opinions of Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC, Harmony Life Magazine, or the Publisher. Harmony Life Magazine, Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC and the Publisher can, in no way whatsoever, be held responsible for the content of such views, nor can it be held liable for any direct or indirect damage that may arise from such views. All rights reserved. No part of any Harmony Neighbor- hood Magazine LLC published work may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher.

December 2025 | Harmony Life Magazine 1

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Paws in Harmony

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Cranberry Dog Cookies: A Tail-Wagging Holiday Treat!

The holidays are here, and you know what that means — cookies everywhere! While we’re busy baking goodies for friends and family, our four-legged pals are probably giving us that “where’s mine?” look. Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered with a fun, festive recipe your pup will adore: Cranberry Dog Cookies!

Not only are these treats super easy to make, but they’re also packed with dog-friendly ingredients. Cranberries (unsweetened, of course) are full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C — a little boost for your pup’s immune and urinary health. Plus, they add a bright pop of color that looks as good as it tastes!

Cranberry Dog Cookies

Ingredients: 1 cup Oat flour (you can blend rolled oats in a food processor) ½ cup Plain canned pumpkin or unsweetened applesauce ¼ cup Dried, unsweetened cranberries (chopped) Egg 1 1 tbsp Coconut oil

Directions: t with parchment paper.

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking shee ce), egg, and coconut oil.

2. Mix together oat flour, pumpkin (or applesau eat them all yourself!

3. Stir in your cranberries — and try not to ve cookie cutter for 4. Roll the dough into little balls or use a festi extra holiday flair. and lightly golden.

5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until they ’re firm will be very impatient).

6. Cool completely before serving (your pup These cookies make adorable gifts for your dog-loving neighbors — or a perfect reward after a holiday walk around beautiful Harmony! Here’s to a season full of wagging tails, happy hearts, and homemade treats.

About the Author: April Cox has been caring for animals for over 10 years and is the proud founder of Harmony Pet Nanny, offering trusted, loving care for pets right here in our community. Through her column Paws in Harmony, she shares stories, tips, and treats to help local pets live their happiest, healthiest lives.

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YOUTH GROUP DONATION DRIVE BENEFITTING OSCEOLA FOSTER CARE Please Drop a Small Unwrapped Gift in Our Donation Box at the Harmony Bistro Cafe in the Square We will be filling stockings for all ages and both genders—see gift ideas below:

Gender Neutral (Baby-Preschool Age): • Pacifiers • Socks • Baby Books (ABCs, Cat In The Hat, etc.)

• Stuffed Animals • Gender-Neutral T-shirts • Sensory Toys • Teething Snacks

Gender Neutral (Elementary – Teen Age): • Card Games • Candy • Socks • Mini Notebooks / Books • Fun Pens • Fidget Toys • Squishmallows

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SUNDAY SCHOOL: 9AM

Boys (Elementary-Teen Age): • Hot Wheels Cars • Pokémon Cards • Joke Books/Comic Books • Army Men • Flashlights • Socks

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Girls (Elementary-Teen Age): • Fun Hair Clips/Scrunchies • Nail Polish • Barbie Dolls (Elementary) • Barbie Doll Clothes (Elementary) • Face masks (sensitive, can be used for Elementary-Teen) • Nail Polish Remover • Pretty Journal • Girly Socks

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HARMONY COMMUNITY SCHOOL 3365 Schoolhouse Road • St. Cloud, FL 34773 (Enter by the Cafeteria) (407) 632-5445 • harmonycommunitychurchfl@gmail.com

www.HarmonyCommunity.church

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Meet the Superintendent of Osceola County Schools:

Dr. Mark Shanoff What inspired you to pursue a career in education, and what led you to your role as Superintendent of Osceola County Schools?

COURTESY OSCEOLA SCHOOLS

Interestingly enough, I pursued a career in elementary education because I enjoyed having my summers off. I always aspired to be the director of a summer camp. After I began teaching, I worked for some very inspiring leaders—people that showed me that there were impacts to be made in education beyond the classroom. Making the decision to leave the classroom was the toughest decision I've made with my career. Since then, I've been fortunate to work for some wonderful superintendents who showed me that the role of superintendent would allow me to work alongside teachers, principals, support personnel and all of the functions on the business side of the organization.

School districts are complex organizations, and I love organizational management. So, now I am in a role that allows an impact in the classroom and work through how our non-teaching and learning functions can better support learning.

How would you describe your leadership philosophy when it comes to guiding a large and diverse school district like Osceola County?

My leadership philosophy is rooted in the organizational drivers within our strategic plan: Engagement, Alignment, Community, Achievement, and Culture. These drivers work interdependently to run the district's engine. But more synonymous with our brand, I believe very strongly that each day needs to be treated as a new opportunity to be better than you were the day before.

Sometimes this comes on the heels of a great day. Sometimes it comes after a very challenging day. Its an individual journey that deserves respect. This applies to every person associated with our school district family—students, faculty, staff, administrators. Every Day is Day One.

What do you feel makes Osceola County Schools unique compared to other districts in Florida?

I have never been part of a community with such a strong emphasis on our young people. We have a county commission and two city councils that elevate, prioritize and engage our educational system. We have law enforcement, public safety, and public utilities that not only want to serve their functions at a high level, but also be part of the education process for our young people. We have employers that give our students 12 Harmony Life Magazine l December 2025

opportunities to work, internships, externships, clinical hours, apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships and on the job training in our legacy economies and also our emerging economies.

Looking back at 2025 so far, what accomplishments within the district are you most proud of?

There are several accomplishments we can be proud of. We have a best-in-class strategic plan that guides our work and challenges each corner of the district to be the best they can be. This starts with the direction provided by our tremendous school board. They are laser focused on student outcomes and ensuring our students have the best opportunities to a well-rounded education. I'm thrilled with how we finished 2025, our students achieved their highest levels in the history of Osceola County. Our high schools achieved record graduation rates, our students earned over 7,000 industry certifications, we expanded advanced coursework opportunities for middle and high school students.

Are there any new programs, partnerships, or initiatives that you’re particularly excited about right now?

I'm excited about a lot of things. I am excited about all of the new construction and renovation occurring across the district. I'm excited about our recent expansion of 3DE through Junior Achievement, our new Community School Partnership program with Heart of Florida United Way at Osceola High School, our expansion of choice programming, industry certifications, and the alignment of educational offerings and economic development.

How has the district continued to improve student outcomes, both academically and beyond the classroom?

Our latest student achievement results are fantastic. I'm proud of the growth we've made. It's not because I have done anything remarkable. Its the heroes in our classrooms, our hallways, our buses, kitchens, and offices that make the difference. And its the partnership. We are "rowing this boat" in better synchronization than any time in our past. That has helped moved outcomes as much as anything else.

Many of our readers are parents and educators in the Harmony area — what message would you share with families about the direction of our schools?

We should all be proud that our Harmony schools are all A-rated schools.

It shows that there is powerful partnerships between our homes and our school teams. I love visiting Harmony High School for Friday Night Lights and seeing how many residents from the Harmony area come to support our young people and share a sense of community around football, cheer and band.

How do you see the Harmony schools (Community, Middle, and High) contributing to the district’s overall success and reputation?

These schools are anchors for us. We

know that a successful trio of schools in Harmony will allow us to move that momentum across our district. There are so many great teachers, leaders and support staff in our Harmony schools. It starts with how you are greeted when you walk through the front door, to the feeling you get on class changes, to the support that pours in from the community to our schools.

What role does community involvement play in the success of Osceola schools, and how can residents better support education locally?

We want you to be involved. We want you to volunteer your time, attend a performance, cheer at a game, employ our students, donate to our clubs and organizations, serve on a local school committee. The beautiful thing about schools is that everyone can serve. Just connect with your local school principal about the best way for you to support us. In many cases, your time or expertise is more valuable than money. That is what makes our community great.

As we head into the holidays and the new year, what reflections or goals would you like to share with the Osceola school community?

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.

Every day brings challenges. But let's not

cede the power of service to others that we share. I am blessed to work alongside of 8,200 public servants that point inward towards our students and their success. My charge to every team member and every student is the same—be the best version of yourself, find affirmation and belief that you are important to someone, especially me, and that everyone uses each day to get a little bit better as individuals. I never expect folks to be perfect. I just want them focusing on today and growing in the moment.

What’s something about you that people might be surprised to learn — maybe a personal tradition, hobby, or favorite way to unwind after a busy school year?

There are a few things…I'm fanatical about exercising. I find it to be a great way to reduce stress and invest in myself. I am a die-hard Florida Gator, having attended business school there between 2004-2006. But, more than anything, I really enjoy spending my free time with my daughter. As a single parent, juggling the demands of my day job with the needs of my most important job of being a dad, can be a challenge. I'm fortunate that Osceola County has embraced my daughter and me and helps me remain centered on being a great dad more than anything else.

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PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS TO HARMONY RESIDENTS Contact Brady Evans for More Information Brady Evans brayevan1@gmail.com

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