Kaye Whaley’s Leadership as Big Boss
Strengthened
the Silver Spurs Club’s Legacy of Rodeo Excellence and Community Service
During her year as Big Boss of the Silver Spurs Riding Club, Kaye Whaley successfully led one of Florida’s most respected rodeo organizations while reinforcing the Club’s enduring commitment to preserving Western heritage.
AROUND OSCEOLA
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.
KUA Breaks Ground on $20 Million Van Meter Substation to Strengthen Electric Reliability
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Kissimmee Utility Authority officially broke ground Wednesday on a new $20 million electrical substation that will expand the utility’s capacity, improve electric reliability, and help meet the demands of continued growth in KUA’s northwest service area in Kissimmee.
The Van Meter Substation, located on Helios Circle in Kissimmee, is expected to be completed by the summer of 2027 and will provide up to 80 megawatts of transformer capacity to serve new residential and commercial development within KUA’s service area.
Utility officials say the project represents one of KUA’s latest investments in modernizing its electric infrastructure while preparing for the area’s long-term growth.
The substation has been designed with the ability to expand to as much as 120 megawatts of capacity as demand continues to increase.
“The Van Meter Substation is a significant investment in Kissimmee’s future; a project that will strengthen our electric system and support the continued growth of our community for decades to come,” said KUA President and General Manager Brian Horton during Wednesday’s groundbreaking ceremony.
Orlando to Tampa in 30 Minutes? Kissimmee Gateway Airport Showcases the Future of Flight With
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The future of aviation took center stage Tuesday as Kissimmee Gateway Airport welcomed aviation executives, technology innovators, elected officials, and economic development leaders for an event highlighting how advanced air mobility is poised to transform transportation, strengthen the regional economy, and position Central Florida at the forefront of aerospace innovation.
Held at the Signature Aviation Hangar, the Kissimmee Vertiport & Air Taxi Infrastructure Event focused on the rapid evolution of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)—an emerging sector centered on electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, commonly referred to as flying taxis, and the infrastructure needed to support next-generation aviation.
The program was emceed by Shaun Germolus, Director of Aviation for the City of Kissimmee, and featured presentations from representatives of Signature Aviation, BETA Technologies, and Bell Dancy Industries, along with remarks from State Senator Kristen Arrington, Florida Representative Leonard Spencer, and Representative Jose Alvarez.
Discussions centered on the partnerships, infrastructure investments, and legislative support needed to prepare communities for the future of advanced air mobility as electric aviation moves closer to commercial implementation
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.
Kaye Whaley’s Leadership as Big Boss Strengthened the Silver Spurs Club’s Legacy of Rodeo Excellence & Community Service
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — During her year as Big Boss of the Silver Spurs Riding Club, Kaye Whaley successfully led one of Florida’s most respected rodeo organizations while reinforcing the Club’s enduring commitment to preserving Western heritage, producing premier professional rodeo events, and giving back to the Osceola County community.
As only the fourth woman to serve as Big Boss in the Club’s 85-year history, Whaley’s leadership reflected the values that have defined the Silver Spurs Riding Club since its founding in 1941—service, volunteerism, family, tradition, and a deep commitment to the community.
Throughout her tenure, Whaley oversaw the continued success of the Club’s signature rodeo events, including the nationally recognized Silver Spurs Rodeo and Boots, Bulls & Barrels Rodeo.
These events brought thousands of spectators to the Silver Spurs Arena while showcasing many of the nation’s top Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association athletes and preserving a Western way of life that remains deeply rooted in Osceola County.
For Whaley, however, the Silver Spurs Riding Club has always represented much more than rodeo.
Seventh-Generation Osceola Native Henry Thacker Elected 2026–2027 Big Boss of the Silver Spurs Club
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Silver Spurs Club has elected seventh-generation Osceola County native Henry Thacker as its 2026–2027 Big Boss, continuing a family legacy of leadership, volunteerism, and dedication to Osceola County’s Western heritage.
Thacker becomes the first person in Silver Spurs Club history whose mother and father, Clarence and Jo Thacker, both previously served as Big Boss.
Before being elected to lead the organization, Thacker served five years as Old Bossy, the club’s treasurer, helping oversee its financial stewardship and supporting its mission of community service.
“It is an incredible honor to serve as Big Boss of the Silver Spurs Club,” Thacker said. “This organization has meant so much to my family and to Osceola County for generations.”
Henry and his wife, Melissa, are raising their sons, Jon and Murray, around the traditions of rodeo, volunteerism, and community service.
As Big Boss, Thacker will lead the organization through another year of rodeos, scholarships, charitable giving, and community events
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.
City of Kissimmee to Host Free Community Resource Event
Offering Family Support Services July 18
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Families throughout Osceola County are invited to attend the City of Kissimmee’s Community Resource Event on Saturday, July 18, where residents can connect with local organizations offering valuable services and assistance.
The free event will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at The Haven on Vine, 1815 Vine Street, Kissimmee, and will feature a variety of community resources designed to support individuals and families.
Attendees will have access to information and assistance related to rental assistance programs, employment services, health care resources, food banks and pantries, veterans services, senior services, and child care providers.
La Ciudad de Kissimmee Organizará un Evento Comunitario Gratuito con Recursos y Servicios para las Familias
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Las familias de todo el condado de Osceola están invitadas a participar en el Evento Comunitario de Recursos de la Ciudad de Kissimmee el sábado 18 de julio, donde podrán conectarse con organizaciones locales que ofrecen servicios y asistencia para apoyar a la comunidad.
Kissimmee Gateway Airport Levels Up, Moving Closer to International Air Service
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — After years of planning, the City of Kissimmee has reached a major milestone as Kissimmee Gateway Airport received preliminary approval from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for a User Fee Facility designation, moving the airport one step closer to welcoming international arrivals and departures.
Once finalized, the designation will allow Customs officers to process international passengers on-site, opening new opportunities for international air service, private aviation, tourism, and economic development. Airport officials also say the expansion could help relieve congestion at Orlando International Airport by accommodating overflow international traffic.
Aeropuerto Gateway de Kissimmee Avanza Hacia los Vuelos Internacionales Tras Aprobación Federal Preliminar
Después de años de planificación, la Ciudad de Kissimmee alcanzó un importante logro luego de que el Aeropuerto Gateway de Kissimmee recibiera la aprobación preliminar de la Oficina de Operaciones de Campo de la Oficina de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza de Estados Unidos (CBP) para una designación de User Fee Facility (UFF), acercando al aeropuerto un paso más a la llegada y salida de vuelos internacionales.
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 County’s Caden Scarborough Continues Rise as He Delivers Scoreless Inning in MLB All-Star Futures Game
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Just days after earning one of the highest honors in Minor League Baseball by being selected to the 2026 MLB All-Star Futures Game, Osceola County native and Harmony High School graduate Caden Scarborough showcased why he is regarded as one of the Texas Rangers’ top pitching prospects. Pitching for the American League team at Citizens Bank Park on Sunday, Scarborough worked a scoreless inning against some of the game’s most highly regarded young talent. The 21-year-old right-hander struck out Los Angeles Dodgers prospect Josue De Paula to begin his outing before retiring Alfredo Duno on a deep fly ball to center field. After allowing a two-out single to San Diego Padres prospect Ethan Salas, Scarborough escaped the inning by inducing a fly ball to left field from Luis Peña, preserving his scoreless appearance on one of baseball’s biggest prospect stages.
The performance marked another milestone in what has become an inspiring season for the former Harmony High School standout.
Scarborough entered the Futures Game after posting a 3.90 ERA with a 1.12 WHIP and 31 strikeouts over 27.2 innings for the High-A Hub City Spartanburgers. His season began later than expected after he missed the opening weeks of spring training and the regular season while recovering from offseason surgery to remove a malignant melanoma.
Florida Python Challenge Underway, Offering $25,000 in Prizes for Invasive Snake Removal; Registration Now Open
EVERGLADES, Fla. — The 2026 Florida Python Challenge has returned, giving participants the chance to compete for a share of $25,000 in prizes while helping remove invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades.
Hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the South Florida Water Management District, the competition features a $10,000 grand prize for the participant who removes the most pythons. Additional prizes will be awarded in novice, professional, and military divisions.
Desafío
de Pitones de Florida Regresa el 10 de Julio con $25,000 en Premios
EVERGLADES, Fla. — El Florida Python Challenge™ 2026 regresa del 10 al 19 de julio, ofreciendo a los participantes la oportunidad de competir por una parte de $25,000 en premios mientras ayudan a eliminar las pitones birmanas invasoras del ecosistema de los Everglades.
Organizado por la Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission y el South Florida Water Management District, el concurso incluye un gran premio de $10,000 para la persona que capture la mayor cantidad de pitones.
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.
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital Among Three Orlando Health Facilities Named Best Places to Work
ST. CLOUD, Fla. — Three hospitals within the Orlando Health system have been recognized nationally by Modern Healthcare as part of its 2026 Best Places to Work in Healthcare program.
Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital, Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute, and Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital, each earned the national distinction, which recognizes healthcare organizations that foster positive workplace environments and employee satisfaction.
The recognition continues a strong streak for the healthcare system. Orlando Health officials said at least one Orlando Health hospital has been named to the Best Places to Work list for six consecutive years. Orlando Health St. Cloud Hospital earned the honor for the fifth straight year, while Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute received the recognition for the third consecutive year. Orlando Health Lake Mary Hospital has now been recognized six times since 2020.
“Our three selected hospitals are among only 150 healthcare companies and organizations nationwide recognized by Modern Healthcare as best places to work,” said Colleen Harper, vice president of Human Resources for Orlando Health. “This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a culture where team members feel valued, supported and proud of the work they do.”
Osceola County Sheriff’s Office Honors Excellence, Courage, and Service at Annual Awards Ceremony
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office celebrated the extraordinary dedication of its deputies, civilian employees, telecommunicators, and community partners Wednesday afternoon during its Annual Awards and Recognition Ceremony, honoring those whose commitment and selfless service have made a lasting impact on both the agency and the residents of Osceola County.
osted by Captain Ivan Molina, the ceremony featured remarks from Sheriff Christopher A. Blackmon, who thanked the award recipients for their unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the community while strengthening the Sheriff’s Office through their daily work and extraordinary actions.
One of the afternoon’s most heartfelt moments came as Deputy Alyssa Wolnik received the prestigious July M. Rivers Character Award, only the third time the honor has been presented since its creation in 2010.
Wolnik was recognized for opening her home to one of her students after the child entered foster care, providing stability, mentorship, and a brighter future.
The student, Aaliyah Shaw, was also honored with the Youth Leadership Excellence Award for her resilience, leadership, academic achievements, and volunteer service.
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
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.
