The Osceola Daily News for Tuesday August 4, 2026

Museum

of

Military History to Celebrate

and Honor WWII Veterans During “Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive!”

on Aug. 8

The Museum of Military History, in partnership with Experience Kissimmee, will commemorate the legacy and sacrifice of America’s World War II generation during its annual “Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive!

AROUND OSCEOLA

NEW SERIES: Beyond the Badge With KPD Chief Broadway

Reflecting

on

September 11, a Promise to Never Forget

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Welcome to Beyond the Badge with Kissimmee Police Chief Chuck Broadway, a new Positively Osceola series that offers our community an opportunity to get to know Kissimmee Police Chief Charles “Chuck” Broadway beyond his title. Throughout this series, Chief Broadway will share the experiences that have shaped his career, his philosophy of community policing, his commitment to public safety, and the lessons that continue to guide his leadership of the Kissimmee Police Department.

In this inaugural installment, Chief Broadway reflects on one of the defining moments of his life and career—the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. At the time, he was serving as a detective with the New York City Police Department and would spend countless hours at Ground Zero during the rescue and recovery efforts. His story is one of courage, sacrifice, heartbreak, and an unwavering commitment to serving others—a commitment that continues to define his leadership today.

Más Allá de la Placa con el Jefe de la Policía de Kissimmee, Chuck Broadway: Reflexiones sobre el 11 de Septiembre y la Promesa de Nunca Olvidar

Bienvenidos a Más Allá de la Placa con el Jefe de la Policía de Kissimmee, Chuck Broadway, una nueva serie de Positively Osceola que brinda a nuestra comunidad

Florida’s

Through August 20

Sales Tax Holiday Underway

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida families can save money on a wide range of back-to-school purchases as the state’s annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday continues through Thursday, August 20. The month-long tax holiday allows shoppers to purchase qualifying school-related items without paying state sales tax, helping families prepare for the new school year while stretching their budgets.

The tax holiday, approved by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, applies to many commonly purchased school items, including clothing, school supplies, computers, and educational materials, provided they meet specific price limits.

Qualifying Tax-Free Items Include:

Clothing, footwear, and accessories priced at $100 or less per item, including backpacks, wallets, handbags, diaper bags, and book bags.

School supplies priced at $50 or less per item, including notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, crayons, markers, rulers, lunch boxes, binders, calculators, and more.

Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles priced at $30 or less per item, including flashcards, educational games, and similar instructional materials.

Personal computers and qualifying computer accessories priced at $1,500 or less when purchased for personal, non-commercial use. Eligible items include laptops, desktops, tablets, monitors, keyboards, mice, and printers.

Museum of Military History to Celebrate and Honor WWII Veterans During

“Keep

the Spirit of

’45

Alive!” on Aug. 8

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — The Museum of Military History, in partnership with Experience Kissimmee, will commemorate the legacy and sacrifice of America’s World War II generation during its annual “Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive!” celebration on Saturday, Aug. 8, at the historic G.A.R. Hall in downtown St. Cloud.

The Museum of Military History and Executive Director Chris Robertson invite the community to take part in this special day of remembrance honoring the legacy of America’s World War II veterans while preserving the spirit of service, sacrifice, and unity that defined the Greatest Generation. Residents of all ages are encouraged to explore the museum’s World War II exhibits, pay tribute to those who served, and help ensure their stories and sacrifices continue to inspire future generations.

The day begins with free admission from 9 a.m. to noon, featuring a World War II exhibit showcasing military artifacts, displays, and historical exhibits that highlight the courage and resilience of those who served during the war.

Following the morning activities, a ceremony and luncheon will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets for the luncheon are $25 per person, with reserved tables available for $200. The afternoon program will recognize and celebrate World War II veterans through a special tribute honoring their service and lasting contributions.

Temporary Traffic Signal Begins Operating Today on U.S. 192

Near I-4 as Interchange Reconstruction Continues

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Drivers traveling on U.S. 192 near Interstate 4 should prepare for a new traffic pattern beginning Sunday, August 2, as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) activates a temporary traffic signal east of the I-4 interchange.

The signal, located on U.S. 192 (West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway), will initially operate in a flashing mode before transitioning to a fully operational traffic signal with standard red, yellow, and green lights in the coming weeks. The temporary signal is expected to remain in place through early 2027.

According to FDOT, the signal is a key part of the ongoing reconstruction of the U.S. 192/I-4 interchange.

Once the signal begins full operation, the existing flyover bridge that currently carries eastbound U.S. 192 traffic onto I-4 eastbound will close. The bridge will then be demolished and replaced as part of the larger interchange improvement project.

While the signal remains in flashing mode, traffic patterns will remain unchanged. Eastbound U.S. 192 motorists will continue using the existing flyover bridge to access I-4 eastbound, while westbound drivers will encounter a flashing yellow signal and should proceed with caution.

Near I-4 as Interchange Reconstruction Continues

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Zaza Cuban Comfort Food is expanding into Osceola County with plans to open its first local restaurant at The Loop shopping center in Kissimmee in early 2027.

The new restaurant, located at 3208 N. John Young Parkway, will become the company’s 13th location as it continues its growth across Central Florida.

Company officials said Osceola County’s rapid growth made it a natural fit for the expansion.

“Zaza sees Osceola County as an incredible opportunity because of the dynamic growth this part of Central Florida is experiencing,” CEO Luis Fernandez said.

“We’re excited to bring Zaza’s unique Cuban heritage and flavors to The Loop Shopping Center and surrounding community.”

Zaza is known for its modern take on Cuban comfort food, serving meals prepared fresh to order using traditional recipes. The company bakes its Cuban bread daily and emphasizes quality by preparing food without microwaves.

The restaurant is also recognized for its Cuban coffee program, featuring beans hand-selected in South America and roasted locally to create its signature café con leche, cafecito, and espresso beverages.

The

Future of St. Cloud Is Shaped by the People Who Make Their Voices Heard

If you’re registered to vote in the August 18 Primary Election and live within the St. Cloud city limits, please consider voting for Kirk Zilke for St. Cloud City Council –Seat 5.

A lifelong St. Cloud resident and retired St. Cloud Police Deputy Chief, Kirk Zilke dedicated nearly 35 years to serving and protecting the people of St. Cloud. Throughout his distinguished law enforcement career, he earned the trust and respect of residents by leading with integrity, mentoring future leaders, and working every day to keep the community safe.

Now, Kirk is seeking the opportunity to continue serving the city by bringing experienced leadership, practical decision-making, and a deep understanding of St. Cloud to the City Council.

Kirk believes in:

• Supporting public safety and standing with our first responders

• Planning responsibly for St. Cloud’s continued growth

• Being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars

• Promoting transparent, accountable leadership

• Preserving the hometown character and values that make St. Cloud unique

Clerk of the Court to Open New Poinciana Office with Grand Opening and Back-to-School Giveaway

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.

Public Safety Organizations in Osceola and Orange Counties

Endorse Christina Arguelles for Circuit Judge, Group 2

Law enforcement and firefighter organizations around Osceola and Orange Counties have announced their endorsements of Christina Arguelles in the race for Circuit Judge, Group 2, citing their confidence in her experience, integrity, and commitment to the fair application of the law.

The endorsements include the Florida State Fraternal Order of Police, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Fraternal Order of Police, the Florida Sheriffs Association District 7, and the Osceola County Professional Firefighters.

Law enforcement officers and firefighters regularly interact with the judicial system through their work and rely on judges to administer justice impartially and in accordance with the law. The organizations supporting Arguelles said their endorsements reflect confidence in her ability to serve the community with fairness, professionalism, and respect.

Vote-by-mail ballots have already been mailed to eligible voters. Early voting in Orange County is scheduled for August 3–16, while early voting in Osceola County will take place August 7–16. Election Day is August 18.

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Christina Arguelles for Circuit Judge Campaign, Ninth Judicial Circuit, Non-Partisan, Group 2.

KUA Board Chairman Manuel Ortega Receives State Award for Leadership in Florida’s Public Power Utilities

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) Board Chairman Manuel Ortega has been recognized statewide for his leadership and advocacy on behalf of Florida’s public power utilities, earning the prestigious Policymaker Award from the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA).

The award was presented during FMEA’s annual conference banquet in Palm Beach and recognizes a local elected or appointed official who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to advancing public power.

Ortega, who has served on KUA’s Board of Directors since 2015, has been a strong advocate for municipal electric utilities at both the state and federal levels. In addition to representing KUA, he has worked closely with the Florida Legislature and members of Congress on issues affecting community-owned utilities.

Presidente de la Junta Directiva de KUA Recibe Premio Estatal por su Liderazgo en las Empresas Públicas de Energía de Florida

KISSIMMEE, Florida — El presidente de la Junta Directiva de la Autoridad de Servicios Públicos de Kissimmee (KUA), Manuel Ortega, fue reconocido a nivel estatal por su liderazgo y defensa de las empresas municipales de energía eléctrica al recibir el prestigioso Premio al Responsable de Políticas Públicas (Policymaker Award) otorgado por la Asociación Municipal Eléctrica de Florida (FMEA).

2026 ELECTION DATES: MARK YOUR CALENDAR, OSCEOLA!

2026 Primary Election

Election Day: Tuesday, August 18 (7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.)

Early Voting: August 7–16, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

2026 General Election

Election Day: Tuesday, November 3 (7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.)

Early Voting: October 19–November 1, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Before you head to the polls, take a few minutes to:

Check your voter registration status

Update your voter information if needed

Request a Vote-by-Mail ballot

Find your polling place and election information

Visit VoteOsceola.gov for Osceola County election information, or check and update your Florida voter registration through the state’s official portal at RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov.

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.

Orlando Health Planning Expansion of Osceola Emergency Room into Acute Care Hospital

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Families across Osceola County now have access to a new early literacy program designed to help children build reading and language skills before they enter kindergarten.

The Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County, in partnership with Experience Kissimmee, Wild Florida, Osceola Reads, and the Osceola Library System, has launched Read to Rise, a countywide family literacy initiative that provides free educational resources, hands-on activity kits, and learning opportunities for children from birth through age 6.

Orlando Health Trabaja en Planes para Expandir su Sala de Emergencias en Osceola y Convertirla en un Hospital de Cuidados Agudos

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Orlando Health confirmó que está trabajando en planes para expandir el Orlando Health Emergency Room and Medical Pavilion – Osceola y convertirlo en un hospital de cuidados agudos que atendería las crecientes necesidades de atención médica de los residentes del condado de Osceola.

En una declaración proporcionada a Positively Osceola, Orlando Health señaló que la organización mantiene su compromiso de seguir brindando la atención médica compasiva y de alta calidad que sus equipos ofrecen a las comunidades a las que tiene el privilegio de servir.

Osceola Council on Aging Celebrates Grand Opening of Buen Vecino Affordable Senior Community in Kissimmee

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Osceola Council on Aging, joined by Osceola County leaders, elected officials, and community partners, celebrated the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of Buen Vecino, a new 60-unit affordable senior housing community designed to provide safe, independent living for residents ages 62 and older in the Buenaventura Lakes area.

The newly completed development represents a major investment in affordable housing for Osceola County seniors and is the result of a collaborative partnership between the Osceola Council on Aging, Osceola County, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the City of Kissimmee, Spectrum Charter Communications, and numerous federal, state, and local organizations.

Buen Vecino was made possible through more than $12.6 million in public and private funding, including $5.2 million from Osceola County, approximately $5.7 million from HUD, $500,000 from the City of Kissimmee, and $1.25 million from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, distributed through member bank Truist.

The community provides affordable apartment homes where qualifying seniors pay just 30 percent of their income toward rent, allowing residents to remain close to family members, healthcare providers, shopping, and other essential services.

Buen Vecino includes in-unit washers and dryers, a community clubhouse, walking trails, supportive services, and a new Digital Learning Lab.

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.

Kissimmee Utility Authority Encourages Residents to Seal Doors and Windows to Reduce Summer Energy Costs

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — As Central Florida’s summer heat continues to drive up air conditioning use, Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) is reminding customers that one of the easiest ways to improve home comfort and lower energy bills is by making sure doors and windows are properly sealed.

As part of its Summer Smart Squad energy efficiency campaign, KUA is encouraging residents to inspect their homes for gaps and cracks around doors and windows where cool air can escape.

Even small air leaks can force air conditioning systems to work harder, increasing energy consumption and utility costs during the hottest months of the year.

KUA Recomienda Sellar Puertas y Ventanas para Reducir los Costos de Energía Durante el Verano

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Mientras el intenso calor del verano continúa aumentando el uso del aire acondicionado en el centro de la Florida, la Autoridad de Servicios Públicos de Kissimmee (KUA) recuerda a sus clientes que una de las formas más sencillas de mantener el hogar cómodo y reducir el consumo de energía es asegurarse de que las puertas y ventanas estén correctamente selladas.

Osceola School District

Transportation

Parent Hotline Opens August 3

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Families preparing for the start of the 2026-2027 school year will have additional support beginning August 3 as the Osceola School District launches its Transportation Services Parent Hotline to assist with school bus questions and other transportation needs.

The hotline will be available in both English and Spanish by calling 407-483-3673. Representatives will answer calls Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Parents will also be able to view their child’s bus route beginning August 3 through the district’s online Bus Planner eligibility portal.

In addition to the hotline, the district is encouraging families to use its Onflo online customer service platform for back-to-school questions. By selecting the “Contact Us” tab on the right side of the Osceola School District’s website, parents can submit questions in either English or Spanish and receive responses by email.

District officials said both the Transportation Services Parent Hotline and the Onflo platform will remain available throughout the school year, providing families and community members with continued access to transportation information, assistance, and support.

The first day of school for Osceola School District students is Monday, August 10.

Powerball Jackpot Soars to $786 Million Ahead of Wednesday Drawing

Powerball Jackpot Soars to $786 Million Ahead of Wednesday Drawing

The Powerball jackpot is climbing once again after no ticket matched all six numbers in Monday night's drawing, pushing the grand prize to an estimated $786 million for the next drawing on Wednesday night. The one-time cash option is estimated at approximately $341.6 million before taxes.

Monday night's winning numbers were 8, 30, 41, 48, 54, with a Powerball of 4. While no one claimed the jackpot, lottery officials reported that several players across the country won smaller prizes.

The latest jackpot now ranks among the largest in recent Powerball history and continues to grow as excitement builds nationwide. Powerball drawings are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET. Tickets cost $2, with the optional Power Play feature available for an additional $1.

El Premio Mayor de Powerball Aumenta a $786 Millones Antes del Sorteo del Miércoles

El premio mayor de Powerball continúa creciendo después de que ningún boleto acertara los seis números ganadores en el sorteo del lunes por la noche, elevando el jackpot a un estimado de $786 millones para el próximo sorteo del miércoles por la noche. La opción de pago único en efectivo está estimada en aproximadamente $341.6 millones, antes de

Kissimmee to Begin Railroad Safety Improvements to

Preserve Downtown Quiet Zone

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The City of Kissimmee will begin a series of railroad crossing safety improvements next month designed to preserve its downtown Quiet Zone designation, a program that limits the routine use of train horns at designated railroad crossings.

According to the City of Kissimmee, construction is scheduled to begin during the week of August 10 and is expected to continue through November 2026. The project will upgrade railroad crossings at Vine Street (U.S. 192) and Clay Street to meet federal safety requirements needed to maintain the Quiet Zone.

As part of the project, the Quiet Zone boundaries will be updated and will no longer include the East Donegan Avenue railroad crossing.

Planned improvements include the installation of updated railroad signs and pavement markings, as well as expanded median extensions and new traffic delineators at the East Oak Street railroad crossing to enhance safety for motorists and pedestrians.

During construction, residents can expect a temporary return of train horn use. Federal regulations require locomotive engineers to sound train horns at public railroad crossings while the required safety improvements are being completed. Once the project is finished and the Quiet Zone is reestablished, routine train horn use within the designated area will cease.

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 Sheriff’s Office Reminds Families About Autism Initiative Designed to Enhance Emergency Response

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fl. — The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office is reminding families of individuals with autism about its ongoing Autism Initiative, a voluntary program designed to provide deputies with critical information before responding to a home or vehicle, helping improve communication and enhance safety during emergency situations.

Available to residents in unincorporated Osceola County, the program provides free autism awareness decals for homes and vehicles. The decals alert responding deputies that an individual with autism may be present, allowing first responders to apply specialized training and tailor their approach to the individual’s unique needs.

La Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Osceola Recuerda a las Familias la Disponibilidad de su Iniciativa para Personas con Autismo

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — La Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Osceola recuerda a las familias de personas con autismo la disponibilidad de su Iniciativa para el Autismo, un programa voluntario diseñado para proporcionar a los agentes información importante antes de responder a una residencia o vehículo, con el propósito de mejorar la comunicación y reforzar la seguridad durante situaciones de emergencia.

Early Voting Begins August 7 in Osceola County; 11

Convenient Locations Available for 2026 Electionse

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — As the 2026 election season approaches, the Osceola County Supervisor of Elections is encouraging voters to make a plan now by taking advantage of Early Voting, which offers registered voters the flexibility to cast their ballots before Election Day at any designated early voting location throughout the county.

For the 2026 Primary Election, Early Voting will be held Friday, August 7, through Sunday, August 16, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Primary Election Day is Tuesday, August 18, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

La Votación Anticipada Comienza el 7 de Agosto en el Condado de Osceola; 11 Centros Estarán Disponibles para las Elecciones de 2026

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A medida que se acerca la temporada electoral de 2026, la Supervisora de Elecciones del Condado de Osceola invita a los votantes a planificar con anticipación y aprovechar la Votación Anticipada, una opción que ofrece mayor flexibilidad para emitir su voto antes del Día de las Elecciones en cualquiera de los centros autorizados del condado.

SPORTS

Osceola’s Nick Palmi Powers His Way Onto Major League Baseball Scouts’ Radar

If he were a song, Nick Palmi would be climbing the Billboard Charts “With a bullet.”

The 2024 Osceola High standout has used an incredible year to not only secure a Division-1 scholarship, but has also started to capture the attention of Major League baseball organizations – all the way to the point where he was contacted by those scouts during the past Major League Draft in June.

Despite the positive developments, things did not start smoothly for Palmi year.

Signing with the College of Central Florida out of high school, Palmi was told after the exhibition fall season that they wanted to redshirt his freshman year. Their reasoning was that they had some returning upper-classmen at his position and wanted to preserve his four years of eligibility.

“That was a really a hard decision to accept. To me, the only way to really get better at baseball is to play. Instead, I ended up going to the practices and workouts and then had to watch the games,” he said. “It was hard to stay focused. but I decided to use that year to get bigger and stronger.” He did just that, using the year to add 15 pounds of muscle to his 5-11, 185-lb. frame.

But another decision he made, however, was to find another place to play. “Without any stats from the year before, there weren’t a lot of schools beating my door down,” Palmi said.

Cartwrights Commit Additional $500,000 to UCF Football Gateway Project, Bringing Total Pledge to $750,000

ORLANDO, Fla. — Longtime University of Central Florida supporters Ron and Julie Cartwright have pledged an additional $500,000 to the university’s Hagle Football Gateway project, bringing their total commitment to $750,000, UCF Athletics announced.

The latest gift will support ongoing enhancements to the football program’s facilities and game-day experience at Acrisure Bounce House. University officials also announced that a new gathering space near the stadium’s Roth Tower will be named the Ron and Julie Cartwright Head Coaches Corner in recognition of the couple’s decades of philanthropy and service to UCF.

The landscaped area will be located near IOA Plaza between the north and south entrances of the new Roth Tower and is intended to honor the history of UCF Football and the coaches who helped build the program.

The space will also become the permanent home of the George O’Leary statue, creating a destination that recognizes the leadership behind the Knights’ rise from a young football program to national prominence.

UCF Vice President and Director of Athletics Terry Mohajir said the Cartwrights have played an important role in the university’s growth and success.

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

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.”

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.

Universal Orlando Sets Closing Date for Fast & Furious –

Supercharged at Universal Studios Florida (August 16)

ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort has announced that Fast & Furious – Supercharged at Universal Studios Florida will permanently close on August 16, 2026, ending an eight-year run for the attraction inspired by the blockbuster film franchise.

The announcement came in a message to Universal Orlando Annual Passholders, confirming the attraction’s final operating day as the resort continues preparations for its next major thrill ride, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, which is scheduled to open in 2027.

Universal had previously indicated the attraction would remain open into 2027, making the newly announced August closing date several months earlier than many fans expected. The resort has not announced what will replace the current attraction’s location within the San Francisco section of Universal Studios Florida.

Fast & Furious – Supercharged opened in 2018, inviting guests aboard a “party bus” for a screen-based adventure through the world of Dominic Toretto and his crew.

The attraction featured appearances by several stars from the film series, including Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, and Tyrese Gibson, as riders became part of a high-speed chase through the streets of San Francisco.

Stranger Things Final Season Coming to Life at Halloween Horror Nights 2026

ORLANDO, Fla. — Fans of Netflix’s hit series Stranger Things will once again step into the terrifying world of the Upside Down as Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights unveils an all-new haunted house inspired by the fifth and final season of the acclaimed series.

Developed in partnership with Netflix, the new attraction will debut at both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood as part of the 2026 Halloween Horror Nights season. The experience is designed to immerse guests in the climactic battle to save Hawkins, bringing some of the final season’s most memorable scenes, characters, and supernatural threats to life.

La Temporada Final de Stranger Things Cobra Vida en Halloween Horror Nights 2026

ORLANDO, Fla. — Los fanáticos de la exitosa serie de Netflix Stranger Things volverán a adentrarse en el aterrador mundo del Upside Down cuando Halloween Horror Nights de Universal presente una nueva casa embrujada inspirada en la quinta y última temporada de la aclamada producción.

Desarrollada en colaboración con Netflix, la nueva atracción debutará tanto en Universal Orlando Resort como en Universal Studios Hollywood como parte de la temporada 2026 de Halloween Horror Nights.

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.