The event will take place on Friday, May 8, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kissimmee Lakefront Park – Ruby Plaza, located at 201 Lakeview Drive, offering a vibrant outdoor experience for residents and visitors alike.

Guests attending Taste of Kissimmee can expect a lively, family-friendly atmosphere featuring a variety of food offerings, live music, and cultural entertainment that highlights the diversity and energy of the Kissimmee community. Set against the backdrop of the lakefront, the event creates the perfect setting for an evening out with friends and family.

Ruby Plaza will once again transform into a hub of activity, where attendees can explore a wide range of flavors, enjoy engaging performances, and connect with the community in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Taste of Kissimmee has grown into a signature event for the city, celebrating not only local cuisine but also the culture and togetherness that define the community. With strong attendance and enthusiastic support in previous years, this year’s event is expected to once again draw a crowd eager to experience everything the evening has to offer.

With its blend of food, music, and community connection, the return of Taste of Kissimmee on May 8 promises another memorable night along Kissimmee’s beautiful lakefront.

Taste of Kissimmee Regresa el Viernes 8 de Mayo al Ruby Plaza del Lakefront con Sabor, Música y Comunidad

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Uno de los eventos comunitarios más esperados de Kissimmee está de regreso, ya que “Taste of Kissimmee,” presentado por la City of Kissimmee y patrocinado por Experience Kissimmee, vuelve a ofrecer una noche llena de sabor, entretenimiento y espíritu comunitario en el pintoresco lakefront de la ciudad.

El evento se llevará a cabo el viernes 8 de mayo de 2026, de 5 p.m. a 8 p.m. en Kissimmee Lakefront Park – Ruby Plaza, ubicado en 201 Lakeview Drive, brindando una experiencia al aire libre vibrante para residentes y visitantes.

Los asistentes podrán disfrutar de un ambiente animado y familiar con una variedad de opciones gastronómicas, música en vivo y entretenimiento cultural que resaltan la diversidad y energía de la comunidad de Kissimmee. Con el lago como escenario, el evento ofrece el ambiente perfecto para disfrutar con amigos y familiares.

Ruby Plaza se transformará una vez más en un punto de encuentro lleno de actividad, donde los visitantes podrán explorar distintos sabores, disfrutar de presentaciones en vivo y conectarse con la comunidad en un entorno relajado y acogedor.

Taste of Kissimmee se ha convertido en un evento emblemático de la ciudad, celebrando no solo la gastronomía local, sino también la cultura y el sentido de comunidad que hacen de Kissimmee un lugar especial. Con una gran asistencia en años anteriores, se espera que esta edición vuelva a atraer a numerosos asistentes.

Con su combinación de comida, música y conexión comunitaria, el regreso de Taste of Kissimmee el 8 de mayo promete otra noche inolvidable en el hermoso lakefront de Kissimmee.

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Since taking the role, Chief Broadway has led initiatives aimed at improving operations, strengthening transparency, and building trust with the community. Over the past year, the department has worked with regional partners to combat illegal narcotics activity and human trafficking, while also introducing the FUSUS camera integration system to enhance real-time information sharing.

The department also launched a drone program to support patrol and investigative efforts, hired a full-time Accreditation Manager, expanded recruitment efforts, and implemented an online reporting system to improve access to services for residents.

Community outreach efforts included the launch of a Citizens Police Academy, the return of the Citizens Police Oversight Board, and hosting the department’s first youth basketball camp. Internally, the department introduced a Chaplaincy Program, expanded wellness initiatives including a therapy dog, and created a mentorship program for officers.

Chief Broadway credited the department’s personnel for the progress made over the past year.

“While we are proud of what has been accomplished, our focus remains on the future,” Broadway said. “We are not slowing down—we are just getting started.”

As the department moves forward, officials say the focus will remain on innovation, community partnerships, and delivering high-quality public safety services.

Departamento de Policía de Kissimmee Marca un Año de Progreso Bajo el Jefe Charles Broadway

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — El Departamento de Policía de Kissimmee celebra un año bajo el liderazgo del jefe Charles Broadway, destacando avances en tecnología, participación comunitaria y seguridad pública.

Desde que asumió el cargo, el jefe Broadway ha impulsado iniciativas enfocadas en mejorar las operaciones, fortalecer la transparencia y generar confianza con la comunidad. Durante el último año, el departamento ha colaborado con agencias regionales para combatir la venta ilegal de narcóticos y la trata de personas, además de implementar el sistema de cámaras FUSUS para mejorar el intercambio de información en tiempo real.

El departamento también lanzó un programa de drones para apoyar patrullajes e investigaciones, contrató a un Gerente de Acreditación a tiempo completo, amplió los esfuerzos de reclutamiento e implementó un sistema de reportes en línea para facilitar el acceso a servicios para los residentes.

En cuanto a la participación comunitaria, se lanzó la Academia de Policía para Ciudadanos, se restableció la Junta de Supervisión de la Policía y se realizó el primer campamento juvenil de baloncesto. Internamente, se creó un Programa de Capellanía, se ampliaron iniciativas de bienestar —incluyendo un perro de terapia— y se estableció un programa de mentoría para el personal.

El jefe Broadway destacó el trabajo del personal del departamento en estos logros.

“Aunque estamos orgullosos de lo que se ha logrado, nuestro enfoque sigue siendo el futuro,” dijo Broadway. “No estamos desacelerando—apenas estamos comenzando.”

De cara al futuro, el departamento continuará enfocado en la innovación, las alianzas comunitarias y en brindar servicios de seguridad pública de alta calidad.

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Specially trained officers use advanced drone technology to assist in a wide range of operations, including search and rescue missions, traffic crash scene mapping, crime scene documentation, disaster response, and monitoring large-scale community events. The drones provide real-time aerial perspectives that enhance situational awareness, allowing officers to respond more quickly and make more informed decisions during critical incidents.

“Safety is our top priority,” said Kissimmee Police Chief Charles Broadway. “The Drone Program is a valuable tool for community protection, helping our officers monitor situations, respond efficiently to emergencies, and keep our neighborhoods safe.”

Department officials emphasized that all drone operations are conducted in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and follow strict safety protocols. The agency also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and the responsible use of technology, ensuring that deployments prioritize both public safety and individual privacy.

The department will continue to share updates on the Drone Program and its impact on the community through official communication channels.

La Policía de Kissimmee Amplía Programa de Drones para Mejorar la Respuesta a Emergencias y la Seguridad Pública

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — El Departamento de Policía de Kissimmee continúa ampliando su Programa de Drones como parte de su compromiso continuo de fortalecer la seguridad pública y mejorar la respuesta a emergencias en toda la ciudad.

Oficiales especialmente capacitados utilizan tecnología avanzada de drones para apoyar una amplia variedad de operaciones, incluyendo misiones de búsqueda y rescate, mapeo de escenas de accidentes de tránsito, documentación de escenas del crimen, respuesta ante desastres y monitoreo de eventos comunitarios de gran escala. Los drones proporcionan perspectivas aéreas en tiempo real que mejoran la conciencia situacional, permitiendo a los oficiales responder con mayor rapidez y tomar decisiones más informadas durante incidentes críticos.

“La seguridad es nuestra máxima prioridad”, dijo el jefe de policía de Kissimmee, Charles Broadway. “El Programa de Drones es una herramienta clave para la protección de la comunidad, ayudando a nuestros oficiales a monitorear situaciones, responder eficientemente a emergencias y mantener seguros a nuestros vecindarios.”

Funcionarios del departamento destacaron que todas las operaciones con drones se realizan en cumplimiento con las regulaciones de la Administración Federal de Aviación (FAA) y siguen estrictos protocolos de seguridad. Asimismo, reafirmaron su compromiso con la transparencia y el uso responsable de la tecnología, garantizando que su implementación priorice tanto la seguridad pública como la privacidad individual.

El departamento continuará compartiendo actualizaciones sobre el Programa de Drones y su impacto en la comunidad a través de sus canales oficiales.

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The day started out as birthday parties do — but this one carried a uniquely Kowtown flair. The celebration was officially kicked off with Kissimmee Police Chief Chuck Broadway leading the crowd in a spirited rendition of “Happy Birthday” to the City of Kissimmee. Moments later, City Commissioners, led by Vice Mayor Angela Eady, took center stage to cut the ceremonial birthday cake as attendees looked on. Guests were then treated to delicious birthday cupcakes provided by Candieland Designs, adding a sweet touch to the milestone celebration.

From the moment festivities got underway, attendees were treated to a full lineup of live entertainment. Opening the celebration was local favorite Distorted Xpression, setting the tone with high-energy performances that got the crowd engaged early. As the afternoon continued, the excitement built toward the headline performance by country duo Thompson Square, whose nationally recognized hits and dynamic stage presence drew cheers from fans gathered near the waterfront stage.

Beyond the music, Kowtown Festival offered something for everyone. Local vendors lined the park with handcrafted goods and unique finds, while a variety of food trucks served up everything from classic festival fare to local favorites. Families enjoyed activities throughout the day, including the popular KUA Kid’s Power Zone, which provided interactive fun for younger attendees.

A highlight of the celebration was the community birthday moment, where attendees came together to mark 143 years of Kissimmee’s history — a tradition that continues to reflect the city’s deep-rooted pride and connection among residents.

Sponsored in part by Experience Kissimmee and Kissimmee Utility Authority, the event also highlighted the strong partnerships that help bring large-scale community celebrations like Kowtown to life each year.

As the sun set over Lake Tohopekaliga, the festival wrapped up with smiles, music, and a renewed sense of community pride. The Kowtown Festival once again proved to be more than just a birthday party — it was a celebration of Kissimmee’s past, present, and future.

With another successful year in the books, residents are already looking ahead to next year’s event, where Kowtown tradition will continue to ride strong in and around Osceola County. 🤎

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The ARTisNOW Public Murals Project will bring together four acclaimed artists to transform a 180-foot wall facing E. Magnolia Street into a vibrant, community-centered visual experience celebrating Kissimmee’s identity, environment, and cultural diversity.

The expansive wall—measuring 180 feet wide and 6.5 feet tall—is segmented by architectural pillars into four individual canvases, each approximately 44 feet wide. This design allows each artist to present a unique vision while contributing to a cohesive and immersive mural that reflects the spirit of the community.

Four Artists, One Unified Vision

Jacksonville-based muralist Jennifer Veal will present an underwater-themed composition that blends expressive realism with environmental storytelling. Her piece features a woman merging with ocean elements, surrounded by sea grass, schools of fish, and glowing jellyfish—symbolizing harmony with nature and the importance of environmental stewardship.

Orlando-based artist Gabriella Shepherd draws inspiration from Kissimmee’s wetlands and sunsets. Her mural highlights a radiant sun in warm orange and gold tones, framed by elegant crane birds gliding above flowing waters—capturing the natural beauty that defines the region.

Lake County artist Eric Wise, known professionally as “The Wise Knight,” will depict a joyful, community-driven scene inspired by Kissimmee Lakefront Park. His work features children exploring the park alongside native wildlife, including a red cardinal and monarch butterfly, emphasizing community, diversity, and connection to nature.

Internationally recognized mixed media artist Mike Baca, also known as “2Esae,” brings a bold fusion of portraiture and street art. His mural showcases a stylized female figure surrounded by lush florals and layered textures, using vibrant color palettes and hidden visual elements to celebrate identity, culture, and creative expression.

A Community-Driven Art Experience

“This installation represents everything ARTisNOW was built to do,” said Brian Camacho, Public Arts Coordinator at Osceola Arts. “Four extraordinary artists, four distinct visions, one unified wall—and a community that gets to see itself reflected in world-class public art right in their own neighborhood.”

Residents and visitors are invited to witness the creative process in real time, with artists beginning work on-site starting Monday, March 16, 2026.

The ARTisNOW initiative continues its mission of connecting artists with the community to create transformative public art that revitalizes shared spaces, sparks dialogue, and celebrates local culture across Osceola County.

For more information about the mural program, visit osceolaarts.org/murals.

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“We celebrate the women who have shaped Kissimmee, and we’re committed to ensuring that the next generation has opportunities to reach their full potential,” said Mayor Jackie Espinosa during the event.

The celebration featured a keynote address by Tammy Douglass of Help Now of Osceola, an organization dedicated to providing safety, support, and healing for survivors of domestic violence. Her remarks highlighted the importance of empowerment and continued support for women across the community.

The celebration also included an artistic showcase presented by Osceola Arts as part of its Art in Public Places program, currently on display at City Hall through April 30. The Women’s History Month exhibition features the work of six local artists: Yeny Rojas, Madison Wilkins, Jesenia Alvarez, Grace Kline, Joan Robinson, and Amalia Monroe.

City leaders presented certificates of recognition to Douglass, national anthem performer Alexis Tillman, emcee Melissa Zayas Moreno, and all participating artists in recognition of their contributions to the event and the community.

Following the reception, the Kissimmee City Commission issued an official proclamation recognizing Women’s History Month, reaffirming the City’s commitment to celebrating the vital role women play in shaping the community’s past, present, and future.

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — La Ciudad de Kissimmee honró los logros y contribuciones de las mujeres en toda la comunidad durante su Recepción del Mes de la Historia de la Mujer, que contó con un discurso principal, reconocimientos especiales y una exposición de arte a nivel de la ciudad.

“Celebramos a las mujeres que han dado forma a Kissimmee, y estamos comprometidos a garantizar que la próxima generación tenga oportunidades para alcanzar su máximo potencial”, dijo la alcaldesa Jackie Espinosa durante el evento.

La celebración contó con un discurso principal de Tammy Douglass, de Help Now of Osceola, una organización dedicada a brindar seguridad, apoyo y sanación a sobrevivientes de violencia doméstica. Sus palabras destacaron la importancia del empoderamiento y el apoyo continuo para las mujeres en toda la comunidad.

La celebración también incluyó una muestra artística presentada por Osceola Arts como parte de su programa Art in Public Places, actualmente en exhibición en el Ayuntamiento hasta el 30 de abril. La exposición del Mes de la Historia de la Mujer presenta el trabajo de seis artistas locales: Yeny Rojas, Madison Wilkins, Jesenia Alvarez, Grace Kline, Joan Robinson y Amalia Monroe.

Líderes de la ciudad entregaron certificados de reconocimiento a Douglass, a la intérprete del himno nacional Alexis Tillman, a la maestra de ceremonias Melissa Zayas Moreno y a todas las artistas participantes, en reconocimiento a sus contribuciones al evento y a la comunidad.

Tras la recepción, la Comisión de la Ciudad de Kissimmee emitió una proclamación oficial reconociendo el Mes de la Historia de la Mujer, reafirmando el compromiso de la ciudad de celebrar el papel fundamental que las mujeres desempeñan en la formación del pasado, presente y futuro de la comunidad.

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The ceremony began with the Posting of Colors by the Kissimmee Public Safety Honor Guard, followed by opening remarks from Master of Ceremonies Justin Hetu of the City of Kissimmee.

A musical reflection, “It Is Well With My Soul,” performed by Lisa Kane of the City of Kissimmee, provided a moment of reflection before the reading of recent retirees, recognizing those whose careers recently concluded after years of service.

The keynote address was delivered by Heather Havey, Chief Stakeholder Services Officer for Toho Water Authority, who spoke about the lasting impact of public service and the legacy left by those who dedicate their lives to serving others.

One of the ceremony’s most moving moments came during the Placing of Roses, conducted by the Kissimmee Public Safety Honor Guard and special guests, as roses were placed in remembrance of employees honored during the service.

The ceremony concluded with a closing prayer offered by Ben Radford of Kissimmee Utility Authority and a recessional by the Honor Guard.

A printed tribute titled “In Fond Remembrance of Our Fellow Employees” recognized dozens of individuals who served the community through the City of Kissimmee, Kissimmee Utility Authority, and Toho Water Authority over the decades.

City officials noted that the annual memorial service serves as a reminder of the dedication and commitment of public servants whose work helped maintain essential services and support the continued growth of the Kissimmee community.

While the individuals honored may no longer be present, organizers said their contributions and legacy continue to live on in the community they helped build and serve.

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Nopetro Energy announced it has extended its decade-long partnership with LYNX and will construct a new fueling facility powered entirely by renewable natural gas.

The station will be built at 100 N. Alaska Ave. in Kissimmee and will feature two fueling lanes and two dispensers designed to serve LYNX’s growing fleet of buses. Construction is expected to be completed by Aug. 31, 2026, with operations beginning shortly afterward.

Company officials say the new facility will increase fueling capacity for the regional transit system and help improve operational efficiency as demand for public transportation continues to grow.

“Public transit agencies need fueling infrastructure that keeps pace with their growth,” said Jorge Herrera, CEO of Nopetro Energy. “This new station strengthens LYNX’s ability to operate a modern, lower-emission fleet while managing costs and maintaining reliable service.”

Compressed natural gas has become a widely used fuel for transit fleets because it typically offers more stable pricing than diesel, produces fewer emissions, and performs reliably for high-mileage buses. The Kissimmee station will further strengthen LYNX’s fueling network, allowing the agency to expand service while maintaining efficiency.

Over the past decade, Nopetro has supported LYNX’s transition to natural gas-powered buses through infrastructure design and construction, maintenance facility development, and fleet conversion initiatives. The new Kissimmee station builds on that partnership and is intended to support long-term transit planning across Central Florida.

Transit officials say additional fueling locations can also help reduce operating costs. By positioning buses closer to routes and fueling stations, agencies can limit “empty miles” — when buses travel without passengers — which can reduce daily expenses and extend the life of vehicles.

Industry studies indicate that each compressed natural gas or renewable natural gas bus can save transit agencies more than $15,000 annually in fuel costs, or approximately $150,000 over the life of the vehicle.

The Kissimmee facility will become the 15th CNG station operated by Nopetro in Florida. The company has also developed renewable natural gas infrastructure across the state, including a recently announced $50 million investment in a landfill gas-to-renewable natural gas facility in Manatee County and an RNG facility in Vero Beach that began producing fuel for buses and trucks in 2025.

Nopetro Energy will fund 100 percent of the construction and equipment costs associated with the new Kissimmee station.

Once operational, the facility will support LYNX’s continued efforts to operate a fully compressed natural gas and renewable natural gas-powered fleet, helping provide lower-emission public transportation for communities across Central Florida.

Photo Source: LYNX

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The 37-foot, 10½-inch vehicle weighs 54,000 pounds (empty) and is purpose-built to handle some of the most challenging emergency situations. Heavy Rescue 1 allows firefighters to respond directly to automobile accidents involving entrapment, confined-space rescues, and high-angle operations without having to rely on outside assistance.

Staffed by firefighters and paramedics equipped with Advanced Life Support (ALS) capabilities, Heavy Rescue 1 enables crews to begin critical patient care immediately upon arrival while awaiting transport units. The truck carries specialized rescue equipment, including hydraulic rescue tools and heavy-lifting devices, giving responders the tools needed to safely manage complicated incidents.

“A heavy rescue truck responds when an emergency is complicated and dangerous, requiring specialized tools and training to save lives,” said Fire Chief Jim Walls. “Putting Heavy Rescue 1 into service strengthens our ability to act immediately and provide critical care on scene, improving safety for our residents, businesses, and visitors.”

The department commemorated the truck’s arrival with a traditional Push-Back Ceremony — a longstanding fire service tradition that dates back to the days when firefighters manually moved horse-drawn apparatus into stations after returning from calls. Today, the ceremony symbolizes the department’s continued commitment to preparedness, teamwork, and service to the Kissimmee community.

With Heavy Rescue 1 now fully operational, the City of Kissimmee Fire Department expands its capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies across the city, reinforcing its mission to protect life and property.

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (Positively Osceola) — El Departamento de Bomberos de la Ciudad de Kissimmee ha puesto oficialmente en servicio una nueva y poderosa unidad con la presentación del Heavy Rescue 1, un vehículo especializado diseñado para mejorar la respuesta ante emergencias complejas y de alto riesgo en toda la comunidad.

El vehículo mide 37 pies y 10½ pulgadas de largo y pesa 54,000 libras (sin carga). Está especialmente diseñado para atender algunas de las situaciones de emergencia más desafiantes. El Heavy Rescue 1 permite a los bomberos responder directamente a accidentes automovilísticos con personas atrapadas, rescates en espacios confinados y operaciones en ángulos elevados, sin depender de asistencia externa.

Operado por bomberos y paramédicos con capacidades de Soporte Vital Avanzado (ALS, por sus siglas en inglés), el Heavy Rescue 1 permite iniciar la atención médica crítica de inmediato mientras se espera la llegada de las unidades de transporte. El camión cuenta con equipo especializado, incluyendo herramientas hidráulicas de rescate y dispositivos de levantamiento pesado, lo que permite manejar emergencias complejas de manera segura y eficiente.

“Un camión de rescate pesado responde cuando una emergencia es complicada y peligrosa, y requiere herramientas y capacitación especializadas para salvar vidas”, expresó el Jefe de Bomberos Jim Walls. “La puesta en servicio del Heavy Rescue 1 fortalece nuestra capacidad de actuar de inmediato y brindar atención crítica en la escena, mejorando la seguridad de nuestros residentes, negocios y visitantes.”

El departamento celebró la llegada de la unidad con una tradicional ceremonia de “Push-Back”, una práctica histórica del servicio de bomberos que recuerda cuando los equipos eran movidos manualmente hacia las estaciones en la época de los carros tirados por caballos. Hoy en día, esta ceremonia simboliza el compromiso continuo del departamento con la preparación, el trabajo en equipo y el servicio a la comunidad de Kissimmee.

Con el Heavy Rescue 1 ahora completamente operativo, el Departamento de Bomberos de la Ciudad de Kissimmee amplía su capacidad para responder de manera rápida y efectiva ante emergencias en toda la ciudad, reforzando su misión de proteger vidas y propiedades.

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