The Osceola Daily News for Thursday April 23, 2026

Education Foundation Honors 574 Seniors, Awards $860K in Scholarships.

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Education Foundation of Osceola County awarded 574 scholarships to graduating seniors Wednesday night during its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony at Osceola Heritage Park, delivering more than $860,000 in support at the event presented by Orlando Health St. Cloud

Around Osceola

“I

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

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

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

“I Am Enough” 5K y Carrera/Caminata Recreativa regresa el 2 de mayo, celebrando la salud y el empoderamiento de la mujer en St. Cloud

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

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

Education Foundation Honors 574 Seniors, Awards $860K in Scholarships at Ceremony Presented by Orlando Health St. Cloud

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Education Foundation of Osceola County awarded 574 scholarships to graduating seniors Wednesday night during its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony at Osceola Heritage Park, delivering more than $860,000 in support at the event presented by Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital and pushing the Foundation’s total scholarship investment to over $12.96 million since its founding.

Established in 1985 by Tom Tompkins, the Education Foundation was created with a mission to ensure every Osceola County graduating senior had access to financial support for their first year of college. That mission continues to guide the organization nearly four decades later through partnerships with local businesses, donors, and community leaders.

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — La Education Foundation of Osceola County otorgó 574 becas a estudiantes de último año el miércoles por la noche durante su ceremonia anual de entrega de becas en Osceola Heritage Park, marcando otro hito en el apoyo continuo de la organización a los estudiantes locales.

Presentado por Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, el evento de este año entregó más de $860,000 en apoyo financiero para estudiantes que continuarán su educación superior. Con estos nuevos beneficiarios, la Fundación ha superado los $12.96 millones en becas otorgadas desde su creación.propietario del Orlando City Soccer Club y del Orlando Pride.

Kissimmee Fire Department Swears In 33 Members in Historic Ceremony, Launches New D-Shift

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The City of Kissimmee Fire Department marked a major milestone April 16, swearing in 33 members during a ceremony at Kissimmee Christian Church that highlighted both the agency’s continued growth and a significant operational shift set to take effect later this month.

The event, led by Fire Chief Jim Walls, recognized 18 promotions and welcomed 15 new firefighters who recently completed their orientation program. The ceremony also marked the department’s transition to a new 24/72 work schedule and the creation of its first-ever “D-Shift,”

El

Departamento

de Bomberos de Kissimmee Jura a 33 Miembros en Ceremonia Histórica y Lanza Nuevo Turno D

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — El Departamento de Bomberos de la Ciudad de Kissimmee marcó un importante hito el 16 de abril al juramentar a 33 miembros durante una ceremonia en la iglesia Kissimmee Christian Church, destacando tanto el crecimiento continuo de la agencia como un cambio operativo significativo que entrará en vigor a finales de este mes.

El evento, encabezado por el jefe de bomberos Jim Walls, reconoció 18 ascensos y dio la bienvenida a 15 nuevos bomberos que recientemente completaron su programa de orientación.

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.

Thrive Studios Opens in Kissimmee, Offering Hope, Housing, and a Path Forward for Families in Need

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

Located along West Vine Street, Thrive Studios represents the conversion of the former Crown Motel on U.S. Highway 192 into permanent, trauma-responsive studio apartments for individuals experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. The project is part of Hope Partnership’s broader mission to provide not only shelter, but the tools and support systems needed for long-term success.

Thrive Studios Abre en Kissimmee, Ofreciendo Esperanza, Vivienda y un Camino Hacia Adelante para Familias en Necesidad

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Un nuevo capítulo transformador en la lucha contra la inestabilidad de vivienda en el Condado de Osceola comenzó oficialmente el viernes cuando Hope Partnership celebró la gran apertura de Thrive Studios, una comunidad residencial recientemente renovada diseñada para apoyar a las familias en su camino hacia la autosuficiencia.

City

of St. Cloud Streamlines Bulk Pickup Service,

Launching

On-Demand Scheduling May 1

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — The City of St. Cloud is rolling out a more efficient and convenient way for residents to dispose of large household items, with a new scheduled bulk pickup system set to begin May 1.

Under the current system, bulk pickups are tied to designated zone days, which can result in delays and added inefficiencies for both residents and collection crews. City officials say trucks often spend extra time driving through neighborhoods searching for bulk piles, leading to increased fuel use and occasional missed or unintended pickups.

Beginning May 1, the city will eliminate zone-based special bulk pickup routes and instead allow residents to schedule their own pickup date—typically within two business days—through an online request form

Ciudad de St. Cloud moderniza el servicio de recogido de artículos voluminosos a partir del 1 de mayo

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — La Ciudad de St. Cloud implementará un sistema más eficiente y conveniente para la recolección de artículos voluminosos, con un nuevo servicio programado que comenzará el 1 de mayo.

Actualmente, la recolección de artículos grandes está vinculada a días específicos por zonas, lo que puede generar retrasos y afectar la eficiencia tanto para los residentes como para las cuadrillas de trabajo.

Osceola Kowboys Tap Program Veteran Ryan Buhain as Head Basketball Coach, Continuing a Winning Legacy

For the second time since Nate Alexander stepped down as basketball coach at Osceola High in 2020, Osceola has reached into its rich history to find a successor. Late Monday afternoon, athletics director Jerry Gallman named Ryan Buhain as its next Head Coach.

Buhain replaces Steve Mason, who stepped down from his post following a 30-year relationship with the program.

A native of Kissimmee and a 2010 Gateway High graduate, Buhain earned a degree in exercise and sports science from UCF in 2016. He spent more than a decade as a “behind the scenes” influencer on Osceola High basketball players – designing and developing training programs for its players.

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Por segunda vez desde que Nate Alexander dejó su cargo como entrenador de baloncesto en Osceola High en 2020, Osceola ha recurrido a su rica historia para encontrar a un sucesor. A última hora de la tarde del lunes, el director atlético Jerry Gallman nombró a Ryan Buhain como su próximo entrenador principal.

Buhain reemplaza a Steve Mason, quien dejó su puesto tras una relación de 30 años con el programa.

Lady Kowboys Run Away With District Title, Showcase

Osceola’s

Rising Track Power

ST. CLOUD, Fla. —Although all track coaches will tell you the only goal of the district championships is to advance as many athletes as possible to regionals, you can’t blame Osceola coach Eric Pinellas for smiling at little as his girls squad ran away with the team championship at the FHSAA Class 4A, District 7 Championships on Friday afternoon at Harmony High School.

The Lady Kowboys won eight individual events and two relays to amass 205 points and nearly double up on second place Harmony (117) and third place St. Cloud (116). Tohopekaliga finished 7th and Poinciana was 8th.

Las Lady Kowboys arrasan con el título distrital y exhiben el creciente poder del atletismo de Osceola

Aunque todos los entrenadores de atletismo dirán que el único objetivo de los campeonatos distritales es avanzar a la mayor cantidad posible de atletas a la fase regional, no se puede culpar al entrenador de Osceola, Eric Pinellas, por sonreír mientras su equipo femenino arrasaba con el campeonato por equipos en el Campeonato Distrital 7 de la Clase 4A de la FHSAA, el viernes por la tarde en Harmony High School.

Las Lady Kowboys ganaron ocho eventos individuales y dos relevos para sumar 205 puntos, casi duplicando al segundo lugar, Harmony (117), y al tercer lugar, St. Cloud (116). Tohopekaliga terminó en séptimo lugar y Poinciana en octavo.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4n22ayt

FWC Launches ‘Cast for Cash’ Pilot Program to Study

Recreational Fish Releases

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has announced the launch of a new pilot research initiative designed to gather critical data on recreational fishing practices, offering financial incentives to anglers who participate.

The program, titled “Cast for Cash: It Pays to Fish for Science,” will enlist private recreational anglers in the Tampa Bay region to assist scientists by documenting their fishing activity—specifically focusing on reef fish that are caught and released Under the initiative, selected participants can earn $250 per recorded fishing trip, with the opportunity to complete up to six trips during a three-month research period. In total, anglers could receive as much as $1,500 for their participation.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — La Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission ha anunciado el lanzamiento de una nueva iniciativa piloto de investigación diseñada para recopilar datos clave sobre las prácticas de pesca recreativa, ofreciendo incentivos económicos a los pescadores que participen.

El programa, titulado “Cast for Cash: It Pays to Fish for Science”, invitará a pescadores recreativos privados en la región de la Bahía de Tampa a ayudar a los científicos documentando su actividad de pesca, con un enfoque específico en los peces de arrecife que son capturados y luego liberados.

Art Meets Earth Day in Kissimmee as Osceola Arts Unveils

New ARTisNOW Mural at Mosaic at Lake Toho

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A new piece of public art was officially unveiled Wednesday as Osceola Arts, in partnership with the City of Kissimmee’s Kissimmee Community Redevelopment Agency, hosted an Earth Day ribbon cutting for the latest addition to the city’s ARTisNOW Public Murals collection.

The ceremony took place at Mosaic at Lake Toho, located at 110 Lakeview Drive, where community members and local leaders gathered to mark the completion of the large-scale mural.

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Una nueva obra de arte público fue inaugurada oficialmente el miércoles, cuando Osceola Arts, en colaboración con la Agencia de Reurbanización Comunitaria de Kissimmee de la Ciudad de Kissimmee, organizó un corte de cinta por el Día de la Tierra para la más reciente incorporación a la colección de murales públicos ARTisNOW de la ciudad.

La ceremonia tuvo lugar en Mosaic at Lake Toho, ubicado en 110 Lakeview Drive, donde miembros de la comunidad y líderes locales se reunieron para conmemorar la finalización del mural de gran escala.

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

Kissimmee Commission Advances Ethics Complaints Against Mayor and Commissioner

Commissioners voted to move both complaints forward to the Ninth Judicial Circuit for review. Espinosa and Martinez each recused themselves from voting on their respective cases.

One complaint, filed by Kissimmee resident Alex Alemi, alleges that Mayor Espinosa has a conflict of interest tied to the city’s Business Boost 2.0 Program. The complaint states that Espinosa and her family received a combined total of $50,000 through the program, raising questions about her involvement in a city initiative from which her family business benefited.

A second complaint involving Commissioner Martinez alleges a conflict of interest related to her support of a proposed citywide food truck permit. The complaint cites her personal friendship with an applicant, along with her ownership of a food truck, as factors that could present a conflict in her official role.

Comisión de Kissimmee avanza denuncias éticas contra la alcaldesa y una comisionada

Los líderes de la ciudad también reconocieron el Día Nacional de Oración, programado para el 7 de mayo, una tradición anual que se celebra el primer jueves de mayo e invita a las personas a reflexionar y orar por la nación, sus líderes y sus comunidades.

St. Cloud Pushes Back $10M Hopkins Park Improvement Project, Summer Camp Moves Forward

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — The City of St. Cloud is delaying the start of a long-anticipated $10 million redevelopment of Hopkins Park, opting to push construction to the end of the summer while keeping its free summer camp program in place for local families.

The decision allows the Hopkins Park Summer Camp to continue uninterrupted, providing a familiar and accessible option for area youth during the summer months. City officials have begun contacting families whose children participated in last year’s camp and remain eligible, giving them the first opportunity to complete registration requirements for the 2026 program.

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — La Ciudad de St. Cloud ha decidido retrasar el inicio de la esperada remodelación de $10 millones del Hopkins Park, posponiendo la construcción hasta finales del verano mientras mantiene en funcionamiento su campamento de verano gratuito para las familias de la comunidad.

La decisión permitirá que el Hopkins Park Summer Camp continúe sin interrupciones, ofreciendo una opción accesible y familiar para los jóvenes durante los meses de verano. Funcionarios de la ciudad ya han comenzado a contactar a las familias cuyos hijos participaron en el campamento el año pasado y que aún son elegibles, brindándoles la primera oportunidad de completar los requisitos de inscripción para el programa de 2026.

Viviana Janer, Osceola County Commissioner for District 2, Hosts Arbor Day Tree Planting at 65th Infantry Park

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Osceola County Commissioner for District 2 Viviana Janer hosted an Arbor Day tree planting Tuesday morning at 65th Infantry Park, as Osceola County prepares to observe Arbor Day this Friday, April 24.

The morning planting highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance green spaces and promote environmental stewardship across the county. Commissioner Janer took part in planting a tree during the event, underscoring Osceola County’s continued focus on sustainability and neighborhood improvement.

Viviana Janer, Comisionada del Condado de Osceola para el Distrito 2, Organiza Siembra de Árbol por el Día del Árbol en 65th Infantry Park

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — La comisionada del Condado de Osceola para el Distrito 2, Viviana Janer, organizó una siembra de árbol por el Día del Árbol la mañana del martes en 65th Infantry Park, mientras el condado se prepara para celebrar el Arbor Day este viernes 24 de abril.

La jornada destacó los esfuerzos continuos para mejorar los espacios verdes y promover la conservación ambiental en todo el condado. La comisionada Janer participó en la siembra de un árbol durante el evento, resaltando el compromiso del condado con la sostenibilidad y el mejoramiento de los vecindarios.inicio a la temporada con una de las tradiciones más esperadas de la región.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/4sVF7GT

Taste of Kissimmee Returns Friday, May 8 to Lakefront’s Ruby Plaza with Food, Music, and Community Celebration

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — One of Kissimmee’s most anticipated community events is set to return as the “Taste of Kissimmee,” presented by the City of Kissimmee and sponsored by Experience Kissimmee, once again delivers an evening of flavor, entertainment, and community spirit along the city’s scenic lakefront.

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

Taste of Kissimmee Regresa el Viernes 8 de Mayo

al Ruby Plaza del Lakefront con Sabor,

Música y Comunidad

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

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

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

Spring Brings Earth Day Celebration to St. Cloud with Vendors, Wildlife, and Family Fun April 25 at Veterans Library

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — As spring takes hold in Central Florida, the City of St. Cloud is inviting residents to welcome the season with a community-focused Earth Day Celebration filled with hands-on activities, education, and family-friendly fun. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Library – St. Cloud Branch, located at 810 13th Street. Admission is free and open to the public.

La primavera trae la Celebración del Día de la Tierra a St. Cloud con vendedores, vida silvestre y diversión familiar el 25 de abril en la Biblioteca de Veteranos

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Con la llegada de la primavera al centro de Florida, la Ciudad de St. Cloud invita a los residentes a darle la bienvenida a la temporada con una Celebración del Día de la Tierra enfocada en la comunidad, llena de actividades prácticas, educación y diversión para toda la familia. El evento está programado para el sábado 25 de abril, de 10 a.m. a 1 p.m., en la Biblioteca Conmemorativa de Veteranos – Sucursal de St. Cloud, ubicada en 810 13th Street. La entrada es gratuita y está abierta al público.

Get

Ready Before the Storm: Osceola County Invites

Residents to Free Hurricane Prep Event May 2

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Osceola County officials are inviting residents to take an active role in hurricane preparedness during the upcoming “Before the Storm” event, scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the NeoCity OC Building in Kissimmee.

Hosted by Osceola County Emergency Management, the event will take place at 194 NeoCity Way and is designed to help individuals and families prepare ahead of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.

Antes de la Tormenta: Condado de Osceola Invita a Residentes a Evento de Preparación para Huracanes el 2 de Mayo

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Funcionarios del Condado de Osceola están invitando a los residentes a tomar un papel activo en la preparación para huracanes durante el próximo evento “Antes de la Tormenta”, programado para el sábado 2 de mayo de 2026, de 10 a.m. a 2 p.m. en el edificio NeoCity OC en Kissimmee.

Organizado por el Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias del Condado de Osceola, el evento se llevará a cabo en 194 NeoCity Way y está diseñado para ayudar a individuos y familias a prepararse antes de la temporada de huracanes del Atlántico 2026.

St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce Announces 44th Annual Golf Tournament at Royal St. Cloud Golf Links

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

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

La Cámara de Comercio de St. Cloud anuncia el 44.º Torneo Anual de Golf en Royal St. Cloud Golf Links

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

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

St. Cloud to Host Free CONNECT Business Growth Workshop with LYNX

ST.CLOUD, FlaLocal business owners will have the opportunity to explore new growth and contracting opportunities during the upcoming “CONNECT: Resources for Business Growth Workshop” hosted by the City of St. Cloud in partnership with LYNX.

The free, in-person workshop will take place Tuesday, May 12, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Cannery Park Building, 901 Virginia Ave.

Designed for both new and established businesses, the session will provide practical guidance on navigating public contracting and working with LYNX. Topics include current and upcoming procurement opportunities, how to register for LYNX solicitations, preparing for public contracting, and partnering as a prime or subcontractor.

St. Cloud Ofrecerá Taller Gratuito CONNECT para el Crecimiento Empresarial con LYNX

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Los dueños de negocios locales tendrán la oportunidad de explorar nuevas oportunidades de crecimiento y contratación durante el taller “CONNECT: Recursos para el Crecimiento Empresarial”, organizado por la Ciudad de St. Cloud en colaboración con LYNX.

El taller gratuito se llevará a cabo el martes 12 de mayo, de 10 a.m. a 12 p.m., en el Cannery Park Building, ubicado en 901 Virginia Ave.

Free Tree Giveaway Set for April 29 at Downtown St. Cloud Monthly Market, Hosted by Commissioner Ricky Booth

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Osceola County residents in District 5 will have the opportunity to take home a free tree later this month as part of a community event aimed at promoting environmental awareness and neighborhood beautification.

The Booth Tree Giveaway, hosted by Osceola County Commissioner Ricky Booth, is scheduled for Wednesday, April 29 at 5 p.m. during the Downtown St. Cloud Monthly Market. The event will take place in front of St. Cloud City Hall.

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Osceola County residents in District 5 will have the opportunity to take home a free tree later this month as part of a community event aimed at promoting environmental awareness and neighborhood beautification.

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Los residentes del Distrito 5 del Condado de Osceola tendrán la oportunidad de llevarse un árbol gratis a finales de este mes como parte de un evento comunitario enfocado en promover la conciencia ambiental y el embellecimiento de los vecindarios.

La entrega de árboles, organizada por el Comisionado del Condado de Osceola Ricky Booth, está programada para el miércoles 29 de abril a las 5 p.m. durante el Mercado Mensual del centro de St. Cloud. El evento se llevará a cabo frente al Ayuntamiento de St. Cloud.

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.

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

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

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

El Festival Caribbean Fusion traerá nuevamente el ambiente isleño al Kissimmee Lakefront Park el 26 de abril

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

PARK HOPPING

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A popular Central Florida attraction is preparing to spotlight one of the state’s most recognizable—and often misunderstood—reptiles as Wild Florida Adventure Park gets ready to host its annual Gator Week later this spring.

The weeklong event, scheduled for May 25–30, will take place at Wild Florida Adventure Park in Osceola County, and is expected to draw families, wildlife enthusiasts, and visitors from across the region.

Gator Week centers on education and conservation, offering guests a closer look at the behavior and role of alligators in Florida’s ecosystem.

Through a series of daily programs and demonstrations, park staff aim to dispel common misconceptions about the reptiles while emphasizing safety and environmental awareness.

Among the featured activities are live feeding demonstrations, where visitors can observe alligators up close during scheduled “Feeding Frenzy” presentations. Interactive elements, including a gator call competition and themed trivia, are also planned as part of the event’s lineup.

In addition to alligators, attendees will have opportunities to learn about other reptile species housed at the park, including crocodiles and caimans, as well as participate in animal encounters designed to engage younger visitors.

PARK HOPPING

Orlando Celebrates 35 Years of Fear with the Return of Halloween Horror Nights in August

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

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

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

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

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

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