The Osceola Daily News for Mqy 23, 2026

Gator Week Returns to Wild Florida with Free Admission, National Alligator Day Celebration

Florida’s most famous reptile will once again take center stage as Wild Florida Adventure Park prepares to host its annual Gator Week celebration from May 25 through May 30, featuring free Gator Park admission with a charitable donation, daily themed activities, and special American alligator events.

Around Osceola

Red, White & Rodeo: 157th Silver Spurs Rodeo Brings Bulls, Broncs & Patriot Pride June 5–6; Tickets On Sale Now

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

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

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

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

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.

It’s Very Important to Understand the Difference Between Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — As Memorial Day approaches, many Americans are reminded that the nation’s military holidays each carry a distinct meaning and purpose, honoring different groups connected to military service and sacrifice.

According to awareness campaigns promoted by Wreaths Across America, Armed Forces Day recognizes those currently serving in the military, Memorial Day honors those who died while serving the nation, and Veterans Day pays tribute to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Armed Forces Day, observed on the third Saturday in May, honors the men and women currently serving in the United States military across all branches of service.

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is dedicated to remembering military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Communities nationwide often mark the holiday with ceremonies, flag displays, moments of silence, cemetery tributes, and remembrance events honoring fallen heroes.

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, honors all military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces during both wartime and peacetime.

Lt/ Governor Jay Collins Visits Northbridge University to Highlight Workforce Training and Career Education

Florida Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins visited Northbridge University on Wednesday afternoon for a workforce development roundtable and campus tour focused on strengthening Florida’s skilled labor pipeline and expanding careerfocused education opportunities.

The visit brought together university leadership, elected officials, economic development leaders, business executives, and community stakeholders for discussions centered on workforce readiness, healthcare education, skilled trades training, and employer-driven academic pathways designed to meet Florida’s growing labor demands.

Jay Collins Visita Northbridge University para Mesa Redonda sobre Desarrollo Laboral

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — El vicegobernador de Florida, Jay Collins, visitó el miércoles el campus de Northbridge University para participar en una mesa redonda sobre desarrollo laboral y realizar un recorrido por las instalaciones enfocadas en la capacitación de la futura fuerza laboral del estado. La visita reunió a líderes universitarios, funcionarios electos, representantes del desarrollo económico, empresarios y líderes comunitarios para discutir la importancia de fortalecer la preparación laboral, la educación técnica y los programas académicos alineados con las necesidades de las industrias de mayor crecimiento en Florida.

Commissioner Janer Leads Osceola County in Groundbreaking for Las Margaritas Affordable Senior Housing

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Osceola County, Florida – Osceola County District 2

Commissioner Viviana Janer joined community leaders, residents, and partners Thursday morning to celebrate the groundbreaking of Las Margaritas, a new affordable senior housing development in Buenaventura Lakes designed to provide safe, accessible, and supportive housing for older adults.+

Located at 140 Oakwood Drive, the development will include nine one-bedroom units, a clubhouse, and shared outdoor spaces designed to create a place where seniors can truly feel at home. The project, part of Osceola County’s continued investment in expanding attainable housing opportunities for residents, is funded by more than $5 million in County funds and supported by $850,000 obtained by U.S. Congressman Darren Soto (FL-9) to bring the project to life.

La Comisionada Viviana Janer Lidera al Condado Osceola en la Ceremonia de Inicio de Construcción del Desarrollo de Viviendas Asequibles para Personas Mayores Las Margaritas

Condado Osceola, Florida – La comisionada del Distrito 2 del Condado Osceola, Viviana Janer, se unió la mañana del jueves a líderes comunitarios, residentes y socios del proyecto para celebrar el inicio de construcción de Las Margaritas, un nuevo desarrollo de viviendas asequibles para personas mayores en Buenaventura Lakes, diseñado para ofrecer un hogar seguro, accesible y de apoyo para adultos mayores.

Joey Fatone’s Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice Coming to Universal CityWalk Orlando

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

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

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

Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice de Joey Fatone Chegará ao Universal CityWalk Orlando

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

Draper Law Office Encourages Safe Driving During Graduation

Season and Memorial Day Weekend

As Memorial Day weekend travel ramps up across Florida and millions of Americans prepare for holiday celebrations, AAA – The Auto Club Group is once again activating its long-running “Tow to Go” program to help keep impaired drivers off the road.

The free and confidential service will be available beginning Friday, May 22 at 6 p.m. through Tuesday, May 26 at 6 a.m., offering safe rides to drivers who may be impaired by alcohol, drugs, or medications and do not have another way home. According to AAA, the program allows a tow truck driver to transport both the impaired driver and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius at no cost. The service is available to both AAA members and non-members.

Draper Law Office Promueve la Conducción Segura

Durante la Temporada de Graduaciones y el Fin de Semana de Memorial Day

Mientras continúan las graduaciones de escuelas secundarias y universidades en Florida Central y aumenta el tráfico por el fin de semana de Memorial Day, familias y líderes comunitarios están recordando a los jóvenes conductores la importancia de manejar de forma segura y responsable.

Con fiestas de graduación, viajes y reuniones familiares llenando las carreteras, expertos en seguridad advierten que conducir distraído o bajo los efectos del

Sunbridge Farmers Market Continues Monthly Community Gatherings

SUNBRIDGE, Fla. — Residents and visitors looking for fresh produce, handmade goods, and an evening outdoors can head to the Sunbridge Farmers Market, held on the third Thursday of every month from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Basecamp in Sunbridge.

Located at 6197 Cyrils Drive in St. Cloud, the market brings together local vendors, live music, family-friendly activities, and a focus on zero-waste shopping in a community-centered atmosphere designed to celebrate nature and local living.

Mercado de Agricultores de Sunbridge Continúa Reuniendo a la Comunidad

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Residentes y visitantes que buscan productos frescos, artículos hechos a mano y una tarde al aire libre podrán disfrutar del Mercado de Agricultores de Sunbridge, que se lleva a cabo el tercer jueves de cada mes de 5 p.m. a 8 p.m. en Basecamp, en Sunbridge.

Ubicado en 6197 Cyrils Drive en St. Cloud, el mercado reúne a vendedores locales, música en vivo, actividades familiares y una experiencia enfocada en compras sostenibles y sin desperdicios, todo dentro de un ambiente comunitario diseñado para celebrar la naturaleza y la vida local.

AAA Activates “Tow to Go” Program Across Florida for Memorial Day Weekend

As Memorial Day weekend travel ramps up across Florida and millions of Americans prepare for holiday celebrations, AAA – The Auto Club Group is once again activating its long-running “Tow to Go” program to help keep impaired drivers off the road.

The free and confidential service will be available beginning Friday, May 22 at 6 p.m. through Tuesday, May 26 at 6 a.m., offering safe rides to drivers who may be impaired by alcohol, drugs, or medications and do not have another way home. According to AAA, the program allows a tow truck driver to transport both the impaired driver and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius at no cost. The service is available to both AAA members and non-members.

AAA Activa el Programa “Tow to Go” en Florida Durante el Fin de Semana del Día de los Caídos

Mientras millones de estadounidenses se preparan para viajar y celebrar durante el fin de semana del Día de los Caídos, AAA – The Auto Club Group ha activado nuevamente su programa “Tow to Go” en toda Florida para ayudar a mantener a los conductores bajo los efectos del alcohol o drogas fuera de las carreteras.

El servicio gratuito y confidencial estará disponible desde las 6 p.m. del viernes 22 de mayo hasta las 6 a.m. del martes 26 de mayo, ofreciendo transporte seguro a conductores que puedan estar incapacitados por alcohol...

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Among Three Orlando Health Facilities Named Best Places to Work

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

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

The recognition continues a strong streak for the healthcare system. Orlando Health officials said at least one Orlando Health hospital has been named to the Best Places to Work list for six consecutive years. Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital earned the honor for the fifth straight year, while Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute received the recognition for the third consecutive year. Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital has now been recognized six times since 2020.

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

Osceola County Wraps Up Grad Week for the Class of 2026, El Condado Osceola Concluye la Semana de Graduaciones 2026

KISSIMMEE, Fla. —Osceola County officially wrapped up its 2026 graduation week Friday as thousands of students from across the School District of Osceola County celebrated one of the most important milestones of their lives during commencement ceremonies held throughout the week at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee.

The week began Monday evening with the Osceola County School for the Arts graduation ceremony, where graduates were recognized for both academic achievement and artistic excellence inside the school’s auditorium.

El Condado Osceola Concluye la Semana de Graduaciones de la Clase del 2026

El Condado Osceola concluyó oficialmente su semana de graduaciones 2026 este viernes mientras miles de estudiantes del Distrito Escolar del Condado Osceola celebraron uno de los momentos más importantes de sus vidas durante las ceremonias realizadas en Osceola Heritage Park en Kissimmee.

La semana comenzó el lunes por la noche con la graduación de la Osceola County School for the Arts, seguida por ceremonias durante toda la semana para estudiantes de escuelas secundarias en todo el condado.

Gaylord Palms Launches “Super Hero Summer Featuring DC” in Kissimmee

KISSIMMEE — Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center officially launched its “Super Hero Summer featuring DC” celebration Friday, bringing superhero-themed entertainment and experiences to the resort through Sept. 7.

Created in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, the event features activities inspired by iconic DC characters including Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.

Guests can enjoy interactive live shows, superhero splash parties, scavenger hunts, themed crafts, poolside movie nights, character dining experiences, and nightly light shows inside the resort’s atrium.

Gaylord Palms Lanza “Super Hero Summer Featuring DC” en Kissimmee

KISSIMMEE — Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center dio inicio este viernes a su celebración “Super Hero Summer featuring DC”, trayendo experiencias y entretenimiento temático de superhéroes al resort hasta el 7 de septiembre.

El evento, realizado en colaboración con Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, incluye actividades inspiradas en personajes icónicos de DC como Batman, Superman y Wonder Woman

St. Cloud Flag Football Standout Deishalee Pena Trinidad Signs With Davenport University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Orlando

Health

Jewett

Orthopedic Institute Making a Positive Impact in the St. Cloud Community with Specialized Care

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

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

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

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

Harmony Middle’s Kyndall Brown Named Florida Teacher of the Year Finalist, Among Top 5 Educators in the State

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — An Osceola County educator known for bringing hands-on agricultural learning and real-world experiences into the classroom has been recognized among the top teachers in the state of Florida.

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

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

“Kyndall Brown represents the best of Florida’s educators, making a lasting impact through her dedication to students and her contributions to school success,” said Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Congratulations, Kyndall, on the well-earned distinction of being named a state teacher of the year finalist. This recognition is a testament to the meaningful difference you make each day.”

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

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

Free Beer Returns to SeaWorld Orlando With Daily Guest Samples at Waterway Grill Patio

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

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

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

La Cerveza Gratis Regresa a

SeaWorld

Orlando con Muestras Diarias para Visitantes en Waterway Grill Patio

ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld Orlando anunció el regreso de su popular oferta de cerveza gratis para visitantes mayores de 21 años.

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

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

Osceola County Supervisor of Elections Reminds Voters to Renew Vote-by-Mail Requests for 2026 Elections

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

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

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

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

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

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

Addition Financial Launches Patient-Designed Debit Card

Supporting Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital

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

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

Addition

Financial Lanza Tarjeta de Débito Diseñada por Pacientes en Apoyo al Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children y la Atención Pediátrica

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

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

Commissioner Viviana Janer Celebrates Gateway High Senior During Adopt a Senior Event

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — The City of St. Cloud is inviting residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day in a big way during its annual “4th on the Lake” celebration on Saturday, July 4, at St. Cloud Lakefront Park.

This year’s event, themed “Celebrating America 250,” will honor the nation’s 250th anniversary with an afternoon and evening packed with patriotic entertainment, family-friendly activities, food, games, and one of the area’s largest fireworks displays.

Festival activities will begin at 4 p.m. at Lakefront Park and will feature live music from Modern Ties, performances by the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, Sami’s Kid Zone, vendors, food and drinks, glow-in-the-dark putt putt, volleyball, yard games, and contests including hot dog and ice cream eating competitions.

The celebration is designed to bring the community together for an evening of entertainment leading up to an extended fireworks show synchronized to music beginning at 9:15 p.m.

The annual waterfront event has become one of St. Cloud’s signature Independence Day celebrations, drawing families from across Osceola County and Central Florida to the city’s lakefront for an evening of patriotic fun and community spirit.

Osceola School District Named Guy Harvey Conservation District for 2025-2026 School Year

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

LEGAL NEWS

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.

PARK HOPPING

Gator Week Returns to Wild Florida Adventure Park with Free Admission, National Alligator Day Celebration

OSCEOLA COUNTY FL. — Florida’s most famous reptile will once again take center stage as Wild Florida Adventure Park prepares to host its annual Gator Week celebration from May 25 through May 30, featuring free Gator Park admission with a charitable donation, daily themed activities, and special events centered around the American alligator.

The weeklong event, which has become a popular family tradition in Osceola County, combines wildlife education and entertainment while also supporting local graduating seniors through the April and Ranier Munns Wild Florida Scholarship Fund.

La Semana del Gator Regresa a Wild Florida Adventure Park con Entrada Gratis y Celebración del Día Nacional del Alligator

Los caimanes volverán a ser el centro de atención en Wild Florida Adventure Park durante la celebración anual de la Semana del Gator, que se llevará a cabo del 25 al 30 de mayo con entrada gratuita al Gator Park mediante una donación, actividades familiares y eventos especiales en honor al Día Nacional del Alligator. El evento, que se ha convertido en una tradición familiar en el Condado Osceola, combina educación sobre la vida silvestre, entretenimiento y recaudación de fondos para estudiantes graduados de escuelas secundarias del condado a través del Fondo de Becas April and Ranier Munns Wild Florida.

PARK HOPPING

SeaWorld Orlando Unveils Massive Summer Entertainment

Lineup Featuring New Drone Show, Nighttime Spectaculars

ORLANDO, Fla. — Summer nights at SeaWorld Orlando are about to get louder, brighter, and more electrifying as the park prepares to launch one of its biggest summer entertainment lineups ever beginning June 12.

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

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

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

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