Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of July.
Good morning, Kissimmee.
Deputies said a man in a green ski mask robbed an Osceola County smoke shop at knifepoint— the sheriff's office is asking the public for help finding the suspect.
Local author James Warda released his book How Does Disney Do That to show how Disney’s magic can be used for personal and business success (with insights from former Imagineer Theron Skees).
The book details the creative process behind projects like Give Kids the World and builds on Warda’s experience in journalism and relocation to Osceola County.
Chief Broadway explained how his first 100 days have built new internal review procedures and improved training, wellness, and community programs to restore trust after a troubled time at the Kissimmee Police Department.
He said the department will soon form a Police Oversight Board, hire extra downtown officers starting in October, and launch a Citizens Police Academy in September and an annual report in January — steps that aim to boost transparency and accountability.
Gov. DeSantis vetoed several projects from the 2025-26 state budget last week, cutting funds for a north Kissimmee stormwater improvement, a community center at Hopkins Park in St. Cloud + substance use treatment for homeless veterans and academic support materials.
Rep. Jose Alvarez said local officials plan to refile these projects next session.
On June 14, AdventHealth’s Global Robotics Institute in Celebration performed a historic robotic telesurgery when Dr. Vipul Patel remotely operated on a patient in Angola, South Africa — the longest distance surgery to date.
The breakthrough comes after a robotic hysterectomy at its Wesley Chapel facility, and AdventHealth will expand surgical services with new campuses planned in Minneola and Celebration.
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.
Old Town Classic Car Show
3:00-7:30 p.m. — Old Town — Free entry — Experience the thrill with stunning muscle cars from 1964 and newer on display.
Fiesta Mo Sa USA
9 a.m. — Events Center — Free entry — Celebrate Filipino-American friendship and entrepreneurship in the community.
Mufasa, The Lion King Screening
1-4 p.m. — Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly screening of Mufasa The Lion King with free popcorn and crafts.
Freestyle Concert Series: Throwback Thursday Edition
9 PM — Sun On the Beach — General Admission $10, VIP $20 & $25 — Enjoy live performances from Fascination and guest DJs at this nostalgic concert.
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