"St. Cloud Pulse: High School Football Team Makes History, Kangaroo Escape Sparks Exotic Pet Crackdown, & More!"

"High School Football Team Makes History, Kangaroo Escape Sparks Exotic Pet Debate, and More in Today's Controversial St. Cloud Pulse!"

EXPERIENCE THE CHARM OF ST. CLOUD FLORIDA in 4k town 😊


October Edition

Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy October 22, 2025! 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

Osceola Realtors and Local Communities Join Forces for Successful Waterway Cleanup Effort
St. Cloud High School Football Team Makes Historic Breakthrough, Advances to State Championship Game
Kangaroo escape in Florida prompts crackdown on exotic pet ownership regulations.

Get Out & Go!

Adult Lunch & Learn – Health Topic
City Council Special Session & Workshop
Trail of Terror – Legend of Peghorn” (Night 1)

Business Buzz

Landsea Homes Launches Pre-Sales for Pines of St. Cloud Development in Orlando Market
The Cheesecake Factory Announces New Location in St. Cloud, Florida as Part of Larger Development Project.

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

Trivia Question❓

Which Florida city is known as the "Citrus Capital" but now is home to one of the most famous theme parks in the world?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Discover local gems! This newsletter is sponsored by St. Cloud ZaarHub, your 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!

Osceola Realtors and Local Communities Join Forces for Successful Waterway Cleanup Effort
St. Cloud High School Football Team Makes Historic Breakthrough, Advances to State Championship Game
Kangaroo escape in Florida prompts crackdown on exotic pet ownership regulations.

📰 St Cloud – News Highlights

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

📜 “Colored Quarters” Name Removed by City Ordinance

St.

Cloud city officials passed an ordinance to remove the historic name “Colored Quarters” from a subdivision dating back to 1910.

The area, located near Narcoossee Road, 10th Street, Pine Lane, and U.S.

192, will now be called “East Quarter,” marking a move toward greater inclusivity and acknowledgment of local history.

(MyNews13; ClickOrlando)

🚑 Osceola County Restructures EMS Operations

Osceola County commissioners approved restructuring Emergency Medical Services to reduce costs.

The high-expense “echo unit” will be retired and replaced with three Advanced Life Support transport units, plus one Basic/Advanced hybrid unit.

Part-time paramedic pay will also revert from $35/hr to $28/hr as per the 2026 union scale.

(Herald Review)

🏛 City Council Adopts $214.8M Budget

The St.

Cloud City Council approved the $214.8 million 2025–26 budget, keeping the city’s millage rate unchanged for the 13th consecutive year.

The budget includes funds for infrastructure upgrades, road widening, stormwater improvements, and additional resources for public safety and community programs.

(Positively Osceola)

⚖️ Mayor, City Manager Clash Over Trust Issues

Mayor Chris Robertson has publicly accused City Manager Veronica Miller of breaking trust with council members, sparking tension within city leadership.

A discussion regarding Miller’s future employment with the city is expected in the next council session.

(Around Osceola)

Also happening...

Osceola Realtors and Local Communities Join Forces for Successful Waterway Cleanup Effort

Osceola Realtors recently joined forces with Kissimmee and St.

Cloud in a countywide waterway cleanup effort.

Together, they removed over 100 pounds of trash from local waterways, including debris like plastic bottles, tires, and even a shopping cart.

The event aimed to promote environmental stewardship and community involvement while raising awareness about the importance of keeping waterways clean and free of pollution.

Participants expressed a sense of pride in their community and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Osceola County for future generations.

In a nearly decade-long waiting game, St.

Cloud High School's football team finally advanced to the state championship game after defeating long-time rival Harmony High School.

This victory marked a historic moment for the team and the community as they overcame numerous obstacles and setbacks.

The Bulldogs are now preparing to face off against Miami Central in the championship game, aiming to bring home a long-awaited title to St.

Cloud.

Kangaroo escape in Florida prompts crackdown on exotic pet ownership regulations.

A kangaroo was spotted hopping along a busy road in St.

Cloud, Florida, prompting concerned calls to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

The kangaroo was eventually captured by FWC officers and taken to a nearby veterinary clinic for evaluation.

The kangaroo, named Jack, had escaped from his owner's property and was safely returned home.

The owner was cited for not having the proper permits required to own a kangaroo in Florida.

The incident sparked discussions about the legality and safety of keeping exotic animals as pets.

The FWC reminded the public that owning kangaroos and other exotic animals requires permits to ensure the animals are properly cared for and the safety of the community.

Despite the unusual and amusing nature of the incident, authorities emphasized the seriousness of owning exotic animals and the importance of following the proper regulations to protect both the animals and the public.

Today's Weather Outlook

🌤️ St Cloud Mid-Week Forecast (Oct 22 – Oct 24, 2025)

Looking ahead at the coming days in St Cloud?

Here’s your forecast snapshot:

Wednesday, October 22, 2025: High: ~87 °F, Low: ~66 °F – Plenty of sunshine and warm; clear skies expected.
Thursday, October 23, 2025: High: ~85 °F, Low: ~64 °F – Mostly sunny with comfortable morning and warm afternoon conditions.

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Friday, October 24, 2025: High: ~84 °F, Low: ~63 °F – Warm and generally clear; good window for outdoor activities.

Overall: Expect warm and dry conditions through this mid-week period.

Sunshine will dominate, and rain chances are minimal, making this a strong window for outdoor plans.

Tip: Make the most of the sunny afternoons—sunscreen and water are smart to have on hand.

☀️

DIY Wednesday ✨

🔥 Get ready to unleash your inner creator: This DIY Wednesday promises to ignite your imagination like never before! 🌟

How to Get Rid of Pantry Pests

🌿 Pest-Proofing Your Pantry: Natural Ways to Keep Unwanted Guests Out of Your Food

Keeping your pantry fresh and pest-free doesn’t require harsh chemicals.

With simple, natural methods and a little organization, you can protect your food from ants, moths, and other unwelcome visitors—while keeping your kitchen safe and eco-friendly.

Use airtight containers: Store dry goods like rice, flour, and cereal in glass or BPA-free plastic containers to block moisture and prevent infestations.
Bay leaves for protection: Place a few bay leaves in flour, grains, and pet food containers—pests dislike their strong scent.
Keep it clean: Wipe pantry shelves regularly with vinegar and water to remove crumbs, spills, and invisible attractants.
Diatomaceous earth barrier: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth along corners and entry points to deter crawling insects safely.
Rotate and inspect: Check expiration dates and move older items forward.

Dispose of infested or stale food promptly to prevent spreading.

🪴 Tip: Add natural repellents like whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, or sachets of dried lavender to your pantry shelves for a pleasant scent and extra pest control.

With a few eco-friendly habits, you can keep your pantry organized, your food fresh, and pests out—naturally and safely.

🌾🍃

🌳GET OUT & GO

Get out & go today - embrace the thrill of the outdoors and let every step be an adventure! 🌍✨

Adult Lunch & Learn – Health Topic
City Council Special Session & Workshop
Trail of Terror – Legend of Peghorn” (Night 1)

🎉 St Cloud Events

Wednesday – Friday • October 22–24, 2025

📅 Wednesday • Oct 22

Adult Lunch & Learn – Health Topic
🕚 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 📍 Marina Banquet Hall, St Cloud, FL
A free health awareness session sponsored by Orlando Health for residents 18+.

(City Parks & Rec calendar)

📅 Thursday • Oct 23

City Council Special Session & Workshop
🕒 3:00 PM | 📍 St Cloud Community Center, St Cloud, FL
Public workshop and special session covering local policy and community initiatives.

(City calendar)

📅 Friday • Oct 24

“Trail of Terror – Legend of Peghorn” (Night 1)
🕗 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM | 📍 Peghorn Nature Park, 2101 Peghorn Way, St Cloud, FL 34769
A haunted walking event through Peghorn Nature Park—ticketed and not recommended for small children.

(City Parks & Rec calendar)

📌 Event listings drawn from the official City of St Cloud calendar and Parks & Recreation schedules.

Please double-check time, location, and ticketing before attending.

St Cloud City Events Calendar

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!

Landsea Homes Launches Pre-Sales for Pines of St. Cloud Development in Orlando Market
The Cheesecake Factory Announces New Location in St. Cloud, Florida as Part of Larger Development Project.

Landsea Homes Launches Pre-Sales for Pines of St. Cloud Development in Orlando Market

Landsea Homes has launched pre-sales for its new development in St.

Cloud, Florida.

The new community, called Pines of St.

Cloud, will have 122 single-family homes priced from the low $300,000s.

The homes will range from 1,672 to 2,927 square feet and the community will feature a playground and pool.

Landsea Homes aims to cater to first-time home buyers and offers financing options through their in-house mortgage company.

The new development is part of Landsea's strategy to expand its footprint in the Orlando market.

A national chain, The Cheesecake Factory, is set to open a new location in St.

Cloud, Florida.

The new restaurant will be part of a larger development project in the area.

This move is expected to bring jobs and economic growth to the community.

The Cheesecake Factory is known for its extensive menu and signature cheesecakes, making it a popular dining destination.

This expansion reflects the chain's continued success and growth strategy in the restaurant industry.

Green Living Tip✔️

🏡 Sustainable Home Renovations: Eco-Friendly Materials and Practices for Florida Homes

Build smarter and greener with materials and methods suited to Florida’s climate.

Renovating your Florida home sustainably not only helps the planet—it saves energy, lowers costs, and enhances comfort.

By choosing eco-friendly materials, optimizing water use, and planning for long-term efficiency, you can create a home that’s both stylish and environmentally responsible.

🌿 Use Sustainable Building Materials

Opt for reclaimed wood, bamboo, or recycled metal instead of new materials.
Choose low-VOC paints and adhesives to maintain healthy indoor air quality.
Install energy-efficient insulation made from cellulose or recycled denim.

💧 Improve Water Efficiency

Install low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads to conserve water.
Collect rainwater for landscape irrigation using rain barrels or cisterns.
Choose native plants that thrive in Florida’s climate with minimal watering.

☀️ Maximize Energy Efficiency

Upgrade to ENERGY STAR® windows, doors, and appliances to reduce electricity use.
Install solar panels or solar water heaters to take advantage of Florida’s sunshine.
Use reflective roofing materials to keep interiors cooler and reduce AC demand.

🔄 Reduce Waste & Recycle

Donate usable materials like cabinets or fixtures instead of sending them to landfills.
Plan your renovation to minimize demolition and reuse existing structures when possible.
Set up a recycling station for scrap materials like metal, glass, and drywall.

Business Spotlight✨

🌟 St. Cloud Business Spotlight 🌟

Each month, we shine a light on local businesses that bring flavor, culture, and community to our city. From long-standing favorites to hidden gems, these spots make St. Cloud a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

This month’s spotlight goes to...

🍽️ Anton’s Restaurant – A Historic Dining Experience in St. Cloud!

This spotlight celebrates a St. Cloud treasure that blends history, tradition, and unforgettable flavors. Congratulations to Anton’s for serving the community with charm, comfort, and hearty meals in a truly one-of-a-kind setting!

🏡 Dining in a Piece of History
Anton’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Housed in a log cabin with roots in the Prohibition era, this family-owned supper club offers cozy booths, antiques, and their legendary popovers that have become a local tradition. Favorites include Cajun pasta, prime rib, and classic Minnesota comfort dishes.

✨ What Guests Are Saying:
“Anton’s feels like stepping back in time. The food is amazing, and those popovers are worth the trip alone!”
– Emily R., St. Cloud resident

🎉 Visit Anton’s Today
Whether it’s a family dinner, date night, or special celebration, Anton’s delivers warm hospitality and timeless flavors that keep guests coming back for generations.

📍 2001 Frontage Rd N, Waite Park, MN 56387
🌐 antonsrestaurant.com

📲 instagram.com/antonsrestaurant

Let’s continue to support the restaurants that make St. Cloud shine!
#StCloudEats #SupportLocal #BusinessSpotlight #AntonsRestaurant

St Cloud Snapshot

🌕 Embrace the shine of the Corn Moon when September gracefully gifts the title of Harvest Moon to October 🌽✨ - Credits to Randy Ryals

Making it through the mid-week!

Keep your news tips, event submissions, and photos coming!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Orlando.

🌟 Help us grow by sharing this email with a neighbor, and if you have a news tip, simply hit reply! 📩

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

See you tomorrow,

- St Cloud Pulse Team