Osceola History's Nick Mathes
Osceola History appoints Nick Mathes as Executive Director
The Osceola County Historical Society Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Nick Mathes as Executive Director.
Mathes holds a Master of Arts in Human Services and a Master of Arts in History from Liberty University. In addition to academic training, he also brings a professional history in museum leadership, having recently served as Museum Director of the Florida Air Museum in Lakeland.
“We are excited to welcome Nick Mathes as the Osceola History Museum’s new Executive Director,” said Osceola History Board of Directors member Paola Grimes. “His leadership comes at an important time for the museum as we continue to grow our programs, strengthen our connection with the community, and preserve the stories that make Osceola County unique. We are confident that Nick’s experience, enthusiasm, and vision will be an incredible asset to the museum as we look toward the future.”
UCF Business Incubation Program Named Florida’s Top Incubator
The UCF Business Incubation Program, which includes a location in Kissimmee, has earned national recognition as one of the country’s top business incubators.
On Aug. 18, Time released its inaugural listing of America’s Best Incubators & Accelerators 2026, spotlighting programs that assist early-stage companies to grow, scale and create lasting economic impact. The UCF Business Incubation Program is the top-ranked incubator in Florida and the highest-ranked program focused entirely on traditional business incubation. It ranked 17th on the list of 80 accelerators and incubators across the country.
The recognition showcases the success of the companies served. In 2025, more than 100 client companies of the UCF Business Incubation Program employed more than 600 fulland part-time people, secured more than $78 million in contracts and attracted nearly $35 million in investment.
“UCF’s Business Incubation Program is working to build the next generation of businesses in Central Florida while creating new opportunities for our workforce to grow alongside them,” said Osceola County Commission Chairman Brandon Arrington. “This recognition is a testament to what happens when education, entrepreneurship, and economic development come together.”
“The UCF Incubator in Kissimmee is an important partner in our efforts to diversify and strengthen our economy,” said City of Kissimmee Economic Development Director David Rodriguez. “By supporting entrepreneurs, innovation, and high-growth businesses, the Incubator helps create new opportunities and builds the foundation for a more resilient and dynamic local economy.”
Lifeboat Project names new COO
The Lifeboat Project CEO and Founder Jill Cohen has announced the appointment of Tina Sopp as the organization’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO).
In her new role, Sopp will oversee the organization’s dayto- day operations, strategic initiatives, and organizational growth as The Lifeboat Project continues expanding its mission of empowering survivors of human trafficking through housing, advocacy, education, and comprehensive support services.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tina to The Lifeboat Project’s executive leadership team,” said Cohen. “Her leadership experience, strategic vision, and passion for building meaningful relationships will strengthen our organization as we continue expanding our mission to provide hope, healing, and comprehensive services to survivors of human trafficking.”
Sopp has earned a reputation for integrity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. She brings a collaborative leadership style to her work, believing the strongest organizations are built through partnerships founded on trust, respect, and shared goals.
Consignment list for 2027 Mecum Auto Auction Kissimmee coming together
Coming off a record-setting Kissimmee event in 2026 with $450 million in total sales, Mecum Auctions is already building toward its January 2027 event in Kissimmee.
The company is offering an early glimpse of what’s ahead, with eight standout automobiles on display representing the caliber of consignments already confirmed for The World’s Largest Collector Car Auction.
Per Mecum, among them is an exceptionally rare 1956 Chevrolet Corvette SR-1, one of just two known to exist, joined by two remarkably original Shelby competition cars: a 1965 Shelby 427 Factory Competition Cobra and a 1965 Shelby GT350 “R” Model. European standouts include the one-of-a-kind 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Gangloff Coupé and a 1955 Ferrari Europa GT Speciale , while a 2004 Porsche Carrera GT and 2025 Bugatti Mistral represent the modern era. Also on display is the legendary 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Baldwin-Motion Maco Shark Coupe, representing the Dan McMichael’s Baldwin-Motion Collection that will be offered at Kissimmee as a headlining attraction. The Brian Lang Road Art Collection adds another dimension to the early announcements, with much more still to come as the Kissimmee 2027 lineup continues to take shape.
Idol Across America—you can try to be the next star
Ever watch American Idol on TV, point and mutter, “That could be me!”
Take your shot at it. “Idol Across America” is coming to Florida on Wednesday, Aug. 26 via Zoom. Hopefuls will get to audition face-to-face with a show producer as the begin another search for the next singing superstar.
During the first round of auditions for the new season “American Idol,” hopefuls can sign up to audition face-toface with producers and receive real-time feedback for a chance to make Idol history and be crowned the next “American Idol.” “Idol Across America,” the live virtual nationwide search for the next superstar, includes dedicated audition days for all 50 states and Washington, D.C., making it easier than ever for aspiring singers to audition.
For more information about “Idol Across America,” including audition details, eligibility requirements, submission forms, and terms and conditions, visit www.americanidol.com/.
