The Osceola Daily News for Thursday, June 18, 2026

Commissioner Viviana

Janer to Host “Splash into Safety” Water Safety Event for Children Today!

As summer temperatures rise and families spend more time around pools, splash pads, and lakes, Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer is inviting local families to participate in “Splash into Safety,” a free educational event focused on teaching children important water safety skills.

AROUND OSCEOLA

Commissioner Ricky Booth Honors Harmony Wrestling Standout Nathan Lyttle Following Historic High School Career

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — One of the most accomplished student-athletes in Harmony High School history received special recognition this week as the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners honored wrestling standout Nathan Lyttle for his extraordinary achievements both on and off the mat.

Commissioner Ricky Booth presented Lyttle with a county commendation celebrating a high school career that has been marked by athletic excellence, academic success, leadership, and a commitment to representing Osceola County with pride.

The recognition comes as Lyttle prepares to begin the next chapter of his wrestling journey at Division I Central Michigan University after signing with the Chippewas earlier this year.

A cornerstone of Harmony High School’s wrestling program, Lyttle established himself as one of the premier wrestlers in Florida. During his career, he earned multiple district, regional, and state honors, captured regional championships, achieved a state title, and earned national recognition for his performances on the mat.

He also represented Puerto Rico in international competition, competing among some of the world’s top young wrestlers.

Osceola School Board Member Paula Bronson Earns State Certification

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Less than two years after taking office, Osceola County School Board Member Paula Bronson has earned a significant professional distinction from the Florida School Boards Association, completing the organization’s Certified Board Member program.

The certification recognizes school board members who complete extensive training designed to strengthen their understanding of public education governance, policy development, school finance, labor relations, and other responsibilities associated with serving on a local school board.

Bronson, who was elected in 2024, completed 96 hours of training to earn the designation.

Miembro de la Junta Escolar de Osceola, Paula Bronson, Obtiene Certificación Estatal

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Florida — A menos de dos años de asumir su cargo, la miembro de la Junta Escolar del Condado de Osceola, Paula Bronson, ha obtenido una importante distinción profesional otorgada por la Florida School Boards Association, al completar el programa de Miembro Certificado de la Junta Escolar (Certified Board Member).

Bronson, quien fue elegida en 2024, completó 96 horas de capacitación para obtener esta designación.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/43Aqu1t

Aquatica Orlando Honors Veterans with Free Fourth of July Admission Offer

ORLANDO, Fla. — Aquatica Orlando is celebrating Independence Day by honoring the men and women who have served in the United States military with a special summer promotion that includes complimentary admission for veterans and their families.

As part of the limited-time offer, U.S. military veterans can receive one free admission ticket to Aquatica Orlando along with up to three complimentary guest tickets, providing an opportunity to enjoy the park's water attractions with family and friends during the Fourth of July holiday period.

Veterans must verify their military status through ID.me and claim the offer by June 21, 2026. The complimentary tickets may then be used for admission through July 5, 2026. Additional tickets may also be purchased at 50% off the regular admission price.

Aquatica Orlando Honra a los Veteranos con Entradas Gratuitas por el Día de la Independencia y Pases Anuales con Descuento

ORLANDO, Fla. — Aquatica Orlando está celebrando el Día de la Independencia rindiendo homenaje a los hombres y mujeres que han servido en las Fuerzas Armadas de los Estados Unidos con una promoción especial de verano que incluye admisión gratuita para veteranos y sus familias.

Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital ENT Specialist Dr. Thuong Trinh Shares Allergy and Sinus Health Insights on Coffee Talk

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Residents across Osceola County recently had the opportunity to learn more about seasonal allergies, sinus issues, and ear, nose, and throat health during a special edition of Positively Osceola's Coffee Talk LIVE featuring Dr. Thuong H. Trinh, an ear, nose, and throat specialist with Orlando Health Medical Group.

Joining Positively Osceola Vice President Keith Ronan in downtown St. Cloud, Dr. Trinh discussed one of Central Florida's most common health challenges: seasonal allergies and the impact they can have on daily life.

La Especialista en Otorrinolaringología del Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, Dra. Thuong Trinh, Comparte Información Sobre Alergias y Salud Sinusal en Coffee Talk LIVE

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Los residentes de todo el condado de Osceola tuvieron recientemente la oportunidad de conocer más sobre las alergias estacionales, los problemas sinusales y la salud del oído, la nariz y la garganta durante una edición especial de Coffee Talk LIVE de Positively Osceola, que contó con la participación de la Dra. Thuong H. Trinh, especialista en otorrinolaringología de Orlando Health Medical Group.

Acompañando al vicepresidente de Positively Osceola, Keith Ronan, en el centro de St. Cloud, la Dra.

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.

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 Clerk & Comptroller’s Office Offers Convenient Passport Services with On-Site Services and Appointments

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — As more Osceola County residents plan international vacations, cruises, study-abroad opportunities, and mission trips, the Osceola County Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller is reminding the community that passport services are available locally at the Osceola County Courthouse in Downtown Kissimmee.

The Clerk’s Office serves as a passport acceptance facility, allowing residents to apply for new passports, obtain passport photos, and receive assistance with the application process without traveling outside the county.

Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Osceola County Courthouse, located at 2 Courthouse Square in Kissimmee.

WHO MUST APPLY IN PERSON?

According to the U.S. Department of State, applicants must complete Form DS-11 and apply in person if any of the following apply:

They have never had a U.S. passport. They are under age 16.

Their most recent passport was issued more than 15 years ago.

Their most recent passport was lost or stolen.

Commissioner Viviana Janer to Host "Splash into Safety"

Water Safety Event for Children in Kissimmee

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — As summer temperatures rise and families spend more time around pools, splash pads, and lakes, Osceola County Commissioner Viviana Janer is inviting local families to participate in "Splash into Safety," a free educational event focused on teaching children important water safety skills. The event is scheduled for Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 10 a.m. at El Yunque Splash Pad, located at 100 Astor Court in Kissimmee.

Hosted by Commissioner Janer and presented in partnership with the Florida Department of Health and Osceola County Fire Rescue, the program is designed for children ages 4 to 10 and will combine fun activities with potentially life-saving water safety lessons.

La Comisionada Viviana Janer Organizará el Evento de Seguridad Acuática "Splash into Safety" para Niños en Kissimmee

A medida que aumentan las temperaturas del verano y las familias pasan más tiempo en piscinas, áreas de juegos acuáticos y lagos, la comisionada del Condado de Osceola por el Distrito 2, Viviana Janer, invita a las familias de la comunidad a participar en "Splash into Safety", un evento educativo gratuito enfocado en enseñar a los niños importantes habilidades de seguridad en el agua.

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

Kissimmee Utility Authority Releases 2026 Hurricane Preparedness Guide Ahead of Atlantic Hurricane Season

KISSIMMEE — As the start of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches, Kissimmee Utility Authority has released its annual 2026 Osceola Hurricane Guide, a free bilingual preparedness handbook designed to help residents across Osceola County prepare for potential tropical weather threats.

The comprehensive guide is produced through a partnership involving KUA, Osceola County, the cities of Kissimmee and St. Cloud, Toho Water Authority, the Osceola County Property Appraiser’s Office, and UF IFAS Extension.

According to KUA, the handbook includes important information on emergency shelters, evacuation routes, generator safety, disaster supply checklists, power outage restoration procedures, and key emergency contact numbers.

KUA Publica la Guía de Preparación para Huracanes 2026 Antes del Inicio de la Temporada

KISSIMMEE — Ante el inicio de la temporada de huracanes del Atlántico 2026, Kissimmee Utility Authority publicó su Guía de Huracanes de Osceola 2026, un manual gratuito y bilingüe diseñado para ayudar a los residentes del condado de Osceola a prepararse para posibles amenazas tropicales.

La guía integral fue desarrollada en colaboración con KUA, el condado de Osceola, las ciudades de Kissimmee y St. Cloud, Toho Water Authority, la Oficina del Tasador de Propiedades del Condado de Osceola y UF IFAS Extension.

St. Cloud Council Approves Roan Bridge Development Agreement Amendment, Commercial Use Permit Rules

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — The St. Cloud City Council approved several significant measures during its June 11 meeting, including amendments to a major development agreement, new permit requirements for commercial use of cityowned property, and updates on the long-delayed downtown hotel renovation project.

One of the most notable actions involved the Roan Bridge development, a large mixed-use project planned west of Old Hickory Tree Road, south of 19th Street, north of Nolte Road, and east of Orange Avenue.

The development, which already holds development entitlements, will include 1,207 residential units and 100,000 square feet of commercial space constructed in three phases.

Council approved an amendment to an existing agreement between the City of St. Cloud, Osceola County, and Roan Bridge Properties, LLC. The revised agreement addresses transportation improvements requested by the city, including extending Orange Avenue beyond the project frontage to Nolte Road.

The extension is expected to create an alternative north-south transportation corridor that will eventually connect Mildred Bass Road to U.S. Highway 192.

June Brings Rodeos, Festivals, Soccer, Concerts and Family

Fun Across Central Florida

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — As summer arrives in Central Florida, June is packed with opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy everything from rodeos and community festivals to major concerts, sporting events, family attractions, and educational programs.

Across Osceola County and the surrounding region, families can explore local traditions, celebrate holidays, attend live entertainment, and take part in special events throughout the month.

One of the month’s biggest events is the 157th Silver Spurs Rodeo, returning to the Silver Spurs Arena on June 5 and 6. The historic rodeo will feature professional rodeo competition, including bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, breakaway roping, mutton bustin’, patriotic tributes, and performances by the Silver Spurs Quadrille teams.

Junio Trae Rodeos,

Festivales, Fútbol, Conciertos y Diversión Familiar al Centro de Florida

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Florida — Con la llegada del verano al Centro de Florida, junio estará lleno de oportunidades para que residentes y visitantes disfruten de rodeos, festivales comunitarios, conciertos, eventos deportivos, atracciones familiares y programas educativos.

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.

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.”

Candidate Qualifying Ends; Several Key Osceola County Races

Headed to the Ballot

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The qualifying period for local offices officially closed Friday, setting the stage for several competitive races across Osceola County ahead of the 2026 election cycle. Candidates seeking county, school board, municipal, and judicial offices have now secured their places on the ballot, while several incumbents won reelection without opposition.

Among the most closely watched contests will be the race for Osceola County Commission District 2, where incumbent Commissioner Viviana Janer, a Democrat, will face Republican challenger, and former Mayor of Kissimmee Olga Gonzalez. Janer enters the race with a significant fundraising advantage, reporting more than $80,000 in campaign contributions.

The race for County Commission District 4 features a crowded field. Democrats Mary Downey, Jose Gonzalez, and Rafael A. Lebron have qualified, while Republicans Nelly Hernandez and Donald A. Shroyer will compete for their party’s nomination. Candidate Chris Mack did not qualify for the ballot.

Voters will also decide several seats on the Osceola County School Board.

With two-term School Board member Teresa Castillo stepping down from her District 1 position, voters will choose between former District 1 representative Jay Wheeler, who served on the board from 2004 through 2018, and former Celebration Community Development District Chairman Greg Filak.

Three Osceola High Students Represent at National Junior Achievement ‘Future Bound’ Event in Boston

BOSTON, Mass. — Three students from Osceola High School recently represented Central Florida on the national stage at Junior Achievement’s prestigious Future Bound conference, where they showcased their innovative business concept, SmartSpoil, at Boston University.

The students, members of Osceola High School’s 3DE program and rising seniors, earned their invitation after SmartSpoil finished among the top 15 student teams in the nation and qualified for the JA Social Innovation Challenge.

SmartSpoil was developed as part of a year-long 3DE project and is designed to help users reduce food waste by tracking grocery expiration dates through scanned receipts and sending alerts when items are nearing expiration.

Estudiantes de Osceola High School Representaron al Centro de Florida en Evento Nacional de Junior Achievement en Boston

Tres estudiantes de Osceola High School representaron recientemente al Centro de Florida en el prestigioso evento nacional Future Bound de Junior Achievement, donde presentaron su innovador proyecto empresarial, SmartSpoil, en Boston University.

Los estudiantes, integrantes del programa 3DE de la escuela y próximos estudiantes de último año, obtuvieron su invitación después de que SmartSpoil se ubicara entre los 15 mejores equipos estudiantiles del país y clasificara para el JA

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

Kissimmee Celebrates Freedom, Culture, and Community at Juneteenth

Festival

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Kissimmee Lakefront Park came alive Saturday as residents and visitors gathered for the City of Kissimmee’s annual Juneteenth Festival, a vibrant celebration honoring freedom, culture, and the enduring contributions of the African American community.

Presented by the City of Kissimmee, brought to the community by Experience Kissimmee, and sponsored by Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA), the communitywide event welcomed families, friends, and neighbors for an afternoon filled with live entertainment, food, fellowship, and reflection on the significance of Juneteenth—the day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.

Kissimmee Celebra la Libertad, la Cultura y la Comunidad

Durante el Festival Juneteenth

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Kissimmee Lakefront Park cobró vida el sábado cuando residentes y visitantes se reunieron para disfrutar del Festival Juneteenth de la Ciudad de Kissimmee, una vibrante celebración que honró la libertad, la cultura y las contribuciones duraderas de la comunidad afroamericana.

Presentado por la Ciudad de Kissimmee, llevado a la comunidad por Experience Kissimmee y patrocinado por la Autoridad de Servicios Públicos de Kissimmee (KUA), el evento comunitario reunió a familias...

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.