Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy February 06, 2026! We hope your day is going splendidly. Dive into this month's edition as we bring you exciting updates, and, of course, sprinkle some joy into your inbox! Don't forget to stay curious and inspired! ✨

Today's St. Cloud Pulse

The Local Lowdown

• St. Cloud Police Department Hosts Expedited Hiring Event for Experienced Officers
  
• Health Department in Osceola Issues Rabies Alert in St. Cloud Area
  
• Osceola County Commemorates Veterans Day 2025 with Community Events and Activities

Get Out & Go!

• $5 Fridays at Blacklight Adventures!
• Intro to Calligraphy Workshop
• Woodwind Summit: An Afternoon of Duos & Quartets

Business Buzz

• Pioco's Chicken Expands to Saint Cloud
  
• Orange County's Surplus Auction Offers Vehicles and Equipment at Bargain Prices

Stay connected for more updates this week—and let’s work together to make it a great one for St. Cloud, Florida!

What is St. Cloud's official nickname, and why was it given that name?

Discover local gems! This newsletter is sponsored by St Cloud Zaarhubyour go-to online directory for finding the best local businesses in your community. Find everything from restaurants and shops to services and more. Visit Zaarhub today!

The Local Lowdown

🌟 Uncover the Essence of Your Community: Stay updated with the latest happenings, hidden gems, and exciting events right in your neighborhood, making you feel more connected than ever!

• St. Cloud Police Department Hosts Expedited Hiring Event for Experienced Officers
  
• Health Department in Osceola Issues Rabies Alert in St. Cloud Area
  
• Osceola County Commemorates Veterans Day 2025 with Community Events and Activities

The St. Cloud Police Department will host a two-day hiring event on January 30 and 31, running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the St. Cloud Civic Center on 17th Street.

This initiative is specially designed for Florida state-certified law enforcement officers and eligible out-of-state officers seeking Equivalency of Training (EOT).

By offering testing, interviews, and physical assessments all in one place, the department aims to cut down on hiring delays and travel costs.

Interested candidates are encouraged to RSVP with Sgt. Ronnie Morales by phone or email.

Further details can be accessed via the QR code provided on event flyers.

This effort highlights the department’s commitment to welcoming new officers dedicated to supporting St. Cloud’s fast-growing community.

Osceola County health officials have issued a rabies alert after confirming a rabid cat was euthanized on January 10, 2026, near Carolina Avenue in St. Cloud. The alert covers the area between Lakeshore Boulevard, Fertic Road, Old Hickory Tree Road, and Wisconsin Avenue for the next 60 days.

This announcement highlights the ongoing risk of rabies within the region’s wildlife. Residents and visitors are urged to vaccinate all pets and livestock, supervise animals outdoors, and avoid any contact with wild or stray creatures—especially raccoons, bats, and coyotes.

Officials stress the importance of not feeding wildlife or leaving food accessible outside.If bitten or scratched by an animal, immediate medical care is vital, and incidents should be reported to the Health Department at 407-742-8606.

Rabies is a fatal disease affecting the nervous system in both people and animals.

Today's Weather Outlook 

WEEKEND REMINDER

🌸 Weekend Reminder: Pamper Yourself! 🌸

Hey there! Just a gentle nudge to remember that the weekend is your time to recharge. Whether it’s a long bath, a cozy book, your favorite music, or simply doing absolutely nothing—treat yourself with the love and care you deserve. 💆‍♀️✨

Your mind, body, and soul will thank you. Take this weekend to unwind, refresh, and embrace a little self-indulgence. 🌿💖

🌳GET OUT  & GO

🌟 **Feeling a little restless?** *It's time to switch things up, explore new places, and add some excitement to your routine with unique adventures and experiences.* ✨

• $5 Fridays at Blacklight Adventures!
• Intro to Calligraphy Workshop
• Woodwind Summit: An Afternoon of Duos & Quartets
  
  

Business Buzz!

We are thrilled to announce St Cloud Pulse's latest business addition! 🌟 Stay tuned for exciting updates on community initiatives and opportunities in the heart of Palm Bay!

• Pioco's Chicken Expands to Saint Cloud
  
• Orange County's Surplus Auction Offers Vehicles and Equipment at Bargain Prices
  

Pioco's Chicken, a beloved family eatery known for its Puerto Rican rotisserie chicken, is expanding to Saint Cloud at 5160 Boggy Creek Road.

This new spot brings Pioco’s culinary heritage to the thriving Lake Nona area of Osceola County.

Founded in 2000 in Buena Ventura Lakes by Miguel Fontanez Sr. and Jr., the restaurant has earned devoted fans with its savory chicken and Puerto Rican flavors.

The spacious new dining area will seat over 200 guests and feature vibrant murals that honor Pioco’s roots.

Diners can expect the famous rotisserie chicken in various portions, plus pork ribs, steak, fried pork, and classic sides like plantains, yuca, and tostones.

Fan-favorite mofongo will be served, with options for added proteins.

A dedicated takeout area promises speed and convenience. As anticipation builds, Lake Nona and Saint Cloud residents can soon savor Pioco’s signature hospitality and authentic taste.

Orange County is hosting its latest surplus auction, offering a unique chance for residents and businesses to score vehicles and equipment at budget-friendly prices.

The lineup includes SUVs, pickup trucks, dump trucks, vans, golf carts, and more—some with starting bids as low as $50.

Comptroller Phil Diamond notes this semi-annual tradition helps repurpose county inventory and supports essential services.

In August, the auction raised over $943,000, directly benefiting local parks, safety, and road improvements.

Bidding is open to everyone, but purchases must be picked up in person.

Besides vehicles, shoppers can find office furniture, construction tools, generators, and even fire hoses, with some bids starting at just $5.

All items are sold “as is”, so inspections at the county warehouse are encouraged before bidding closes on Wednesday, February 4.

Outdoor & Survival

🌿 Outdoor & Living Survival

Gear Maintenance and Storage for Florida's Outdoor Equipment

Proper maintenance and storage of outdoor gear ensures your equipment lasts longer and performs reliably, especially in Florida’s humid and variable climate.

From hiking boots to camping tents, a little routine care goes a long way in protecting your investments and keeping your adventures safe.

• Clean Gear After Each Use: Remove dirt, sand, and salt residue from tents, backpacks, and footwear to prevent mold and material degradation.
• Dry Thoroughly: Florida humidity promotes mildew.
  
  Air-dry tents, tarps, and clothing completely before storing to avoid odors and rot.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid attics or garages that heat up; choose shaded indoor areas or breathable storage bags to preserve fabrics and materials.
• Inspect and Repair: Check for tears, loose stitching, or broken hardware.
  
  Repair minor damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.
• Maintain Tools and Metal Gear: Clean, dry, and lightly oil knives, axes, and other metal tools to prevent rust from Florida’s moisture.
• Rotate Seasonal Equipment: Keep frequently used items accessible while storing off-season gear safely in labeled bins or racks to reduce wear.

Tip: Use silica gel packs or moisture absorbers in storage containers to reduce humidity and protect sensitive items like electronics, sleeping bags, and tents.

⚠️ Safety: Always check gear functionality before heading outdoors.

Faulty equipment can create dangerous situations in remote areas — a quick pre-trip inspection is essential.

Trivia Challenge!

"Congratulations to all who participated in this week's trivia! To enter our weekly drawing for a [local prize,
e.g., gift card to a local restaurant], email us your answers to all three trivia questions by January 30, 2026 at 8 PM."

St. Cloud's nickname is "The Soldier City" because it was founded as a retirement community for
Union Civil War veterans in 1909.)

Your weekend starts here with the Pulse! 🎉
Make the most of St. Cloud, Florida this weekend. 🌊 Have a furry friend that makes you smile? 🐾 We’d love a pic! 📷

🌐 Stay connected by visiting our website at stcloudpulse.com
📘 Follow us on Facebook for news and updates: facebook.com/stcloudpulse
👥 Join the conversation in our community group: facebook.com/groups/stcloudpulse

Check out our local business directory: zaarhub.com

Enjoy the weekend,

-St Cloud Pulse Team