Good morning, Kissimmee.

Experience Kissimmee is seeking a local nonprofit to be its annual charitable recipient for the 2025-26 fiscal year after Healthy Start of Osceola County set a high standard by raising over $37,000 through the Kissimmee Cares Program—eligible groups must be based in Central Florida, have been a 501(c)(3) for over three years, and serve Osceola County, with the application period running throughout July.

Marcos Lopez, the suspended Osceola County Sheriff accused of running an illegal gambling operation that earned over $21 million, posted bond Thursday on $1 million under terms that require him to wear a GPS monitor—he faces two felony counts of racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering.

A judge ruled suspended Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez may post a $1M bond and leave jail—his funds were not tied to crime, though he still faces racketeering and conspiracy charges after his arrest on June 5 for illegal gambling.

FOX 35 reporter David Martin visited the 54,000 acre Kissimmee Prairie Preservation State Park for a new moon night in its designated International Dark Sky Zone—astronomers, campers and adventurers gathered to enjoy the clear celestial display.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced its largest-ever revegetation project for Lake Kissimmee to restore native aquatic plant communities and improve wildlife habitat.

The two-year initiative, funded with $2.35 million from the Florida Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis—part of a broader effort to restore the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes—will enhance water quality and support species such as the Everglade snail kite and Florida bass.

City commissioners approved re-creating the Civilian Police Oversight Board and will give final approval on July 1; the board will have five-to-seven members with two-year terms to review KPD policies.

It aims to boost community trust after former KPD Chief Betty Holland resigned amid an investigation into use-of-force issues.

The state of Florida approved its budget for fiscal years 2025 to 2026 last week, and it has set aside more than $13 million for 18 local projects that support transportation, public safety and community services in our region.

The funding will launch a Cross Prairie Parkway project with a new Turnpike interchange in 2026 plus fund stormwater improvements later this year and other local services in Kissimmee.

The Kissimmee Fire Department earned Gold-level recognition in pediatric emergency care after a year-long effort to meet strict criteria in staffing, training and equipment readiness—this certification is valid for three years.

The department is the fifth in Florida to earn this high-level designation through the Florida Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Program.

Freestyle / Old School Brunch Party 2

1-6 p.m. — FUMA Lounge — Tickets required — Enjoy a lively brunch party with freestyle old school vibes and good company.

Tribute to Stevie Wonder

5-10 p.m. — The Wharf at Sunset Walk — Ticket prices vary — Experience an unforgettable tribute to the legendary Stevie Wonder with all his greatest hits performed live.

Beginners Salsa Dance Class for Seniors

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Salsa Heat Dance Studio — Free entry — Learn the basics of Salsa in a fun and supportive environment without needing a partner.

Monumental Fourth Of July Celebration

7-9:30 p.m. — Kissimmee Lakefront Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, live music, and family fun in downtown Kissimmee.

Domino Club Event

6-8 p.m. — Kissimmee City Chambers Park Community Center — Free entry — Enjoy friendly competition and great company at the Domino Club event.

Welcome Baby Evie with Peppa Pig

12-4 p.m. — Walmart Supercenter — Free event — Experience a magical day with Peppa Pig and celebrate the arrival of baby Evie with fun activities and exclusive episodes.

Family Fun Day at Bigfoot Axe Throwers

5-9 p.m. — Bigfoot Axe Throwers and Rage Room — Free entry — Celebrate launch of the Splatter Paint Room with games and family activities.

Christmas in July Celebration

5-7 p.m. — Margaritaville Resort Orlando — Free admission — Celebrate Christmas in summer with tropical tunes, festive fun, and complimentary margaritas.

Back To School Jam 2025

10 AM – 1 PM — Kissimmee City Chambers Park Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate the end of summer with music, games, and community fun before the school year starts.

El Blachy Concert

9 PM – 3 AM — Perico Ripiao Latin Food — Ticket info available — Enjoy a vibrant night of music and dancing at this popular venue.