Business
CFHLA Names Zack Brodersen as New Government Affairs Manager
Published
6 months agoon
By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association (CFHLA) announced the hiring of Zack Brodersen as its new Government Affairs Manager, effective August 18, 2025.
Brodersen’s Government and Policy Background
Brodersen brings more than seven years of experience in local, state, and federal government relations, public policy, and campaigns. Most recently, he served as Government Relations Coordinator at Propelus, a national software company that develops workforce compliance tools supporting healthcare professionals, hospitals, and health systems.
His previous roles include serving as Senior Legislative Assistant to Senate President Pro Tempore Jason Brodeur (2020–2024), Campaign Manager for Brodeur’s 2022 re-election campaign, Field Director/Coordinator for the Florida Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee, and Administrative Assistant to Seminole County Commissioner Lee Constantine. Brodersen is also a graduate of the University of Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science.
CFHLA Leadership Expresses Confidence
Robert Agrusa, President and CEO of CFHLA, praised Brodersen’s experience, stating:
“Zack’s proven track record in navigating complex legislative processes, combined with his extensive experience in political campaigns, makes him an exceptional fit for CFHLA. His background at the federal, state, and local levels will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for the best interests of our members and the hospitality industry across the Central Florida region.”
Brodersen Shares Excitement for New Role
Brodersen expressed enthusiasm about joining CFHLA, noting:
“I could not be more honored and excited to join the CFHLA team. CFHLA plays such a critical role in supporting and advancing Central Florida’s vibrant hospitality industry, and I am ready to help advance its mission. I look forward to building strong relationships with our members, community partners, and elected officials as we work together to promote the policies that ensure the continued growth and success of Central Florida’s tourism and hospitality industry.”
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Business
2026 PGA Show Takes Over Orange County Convention Center
Published
4 weeks agoon
January 23, 2026By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Florida National News is on site all week covering the 2026 PGA Show as it takes over the Orange County Convention Center, transforming Orlando into the global epicenter of the golf industry.
The annual event draws thousands of industry professionals, athletes, media, and golf enthusiasts from around the world to preview the latest innovations shaping the future of the sport.
Global Golf Industry Converges in Orlando
The PGA Show brings together exhibitors and attendees from across the globe, showcasing cutting-edge golf equipment, apparel, technology, and services. From club manufacturers and gear designers to course operators and teaching professionals, the show serves as a central meeting point for every sector of the golf world.
Attetion, Technology, and Interactive Experiences
This year’s PGA Show features immersive activations, including state-of-the-art golf simulators, interactive training tools, and expanded indoor and outdoor driving range experiences. Technology continues to play a major role, with advancements in swing analytics, performance tracking, and course management on full display.
The show floor also highlights sustainability efforts and innovations aimed at growing the game for future generations.
Florida National News Provides Front-Row Coverage
Florida National News will deliver comprehensive coverage throughout the week, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access, exhibitor highlights, and firsthand looks at the products and experiences defining the next era of golf.
Readers can follow along for daily updates, photos, and feature stories straight from the heart of the PGA Show
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– Todd Grasley and J Willie David, III contribute to this report.
News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
2025 Don Quijote Awards Program: A Keepsake for Event Attendees
Published
2 months agoon
December 22, 2025By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Inside the official event program booklet, attendees will find the powerful presence of premier media partner Florida National News, whose coverage team of reporters, photographers, videographers and social media journalists captures the very best of the annual awards gala.
From high-fashion red carpet arrivals and VIP guests to cocktail networking, exquisite dining, live musical performances, dynamic emcees, presenters, sponsors, finalists, honorees and winners—Florida National News amplifies every unforgettable moment of the prestigious 2025 Don Quijote Awards Gala.
Hosted by the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera, and powered by Diamond Sponsor Disney along with numerous supporting sponsors, the gala takes place at EPCOT’s World ShowPlace Pavilion. Through comprehensive, high-impact coverage, Florida National News elevates the awards gala experience—before, during and long after the final applause.
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J Willie David, III and Jenny Rosario | Corporate Partners and Events | Florida National News
– News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
Hispanic Chamber and Prospera Honor Business and Community Leaders at 28th Don Quijote Awards Gala
Published
2 months agoon
December 20, 2025By
Willie DavidORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera co-hosted the 28th annual Don Quijote Awards Gala on Dec. 13, 2025, at EPCOT’s World Showplace Pavilion, bringing together business, civic, and community leaders from across Central Florida to celebrate outstanding Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals.
Presented with the support of major sponsors including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, Wells Fargo, and others, the prestigious gala honored individuals whose leadership, perseverance, and vision continue to drive economic growth and community impact throughout the region. Florida National News captured highlights from the landmark celebration.
“Walt Disney World is a strong supporter of Central Florida’s entrepreneurial spirit, and we do business with over 2,300 small businesses across the region, many of which are proud members of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and clients of Prospera,” said Jose L. Gonzalez, director of government and industry relations for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. “The Don Quijote Awards represent the best of our community, and supporting this event is a priority for Walt Disney World.”
Celebrating Leadership and Entrepreneurial Excellence
For 28 consecutive years, the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and Prospera have partnered to spotlight exceptional entrepreneurial journeys through the Don Quijote Awards. Current board chairs Oscar Cristancho of the Hispanic Chamber and Adly Santiago of Prospera Central and Northeast Florida joined the celebration to recognize leaders who exemplify resilience and achievement within the Hispanic business community.
The evening was hosted by two distinguished masters of ceremony: Univision Emmy and Telly Award–winning journalist and meteorologist Jennifer Chang, alongside Univision Contigo host and longtime Sábado Gigante co-host Javier Romero.
Juan Amo, senior vice president and market executive at Bank of America, served as the 28th Event Chair and led the Don Quijote Awards Selection Committee.
“As this year’s chair, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the passion and perseverance behind these awards,” Amo said. “Our finalists exemplify courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to lifting others along the way. Their journeys strengthen our economy and reflect the values that define the Hispanic experience.”
2025 Don Quijote Award Recipients
The recipients of the 28th Don Quijote Awards are:
Hispanic Micro-Enterprise of the Year: Graceful Paws Pet Clinic, represented by owner Dr. Lynette Reyes
Hispanic Enterprise of the Year: Angels For Kids and Families, represented by owners Elizabeth and John Valencia
Professional of the Year: Rafael Caamaño, director of UCF Innovation Districts and Business Incubation Program, University of Central Florida
Excellence Award: Carlos Torres, chief deputy, Orange County Sheriff’s Office
Hispanic Community Champion Award: Jennifer Evins, president and CEO, United Arts of Central Florida
Lifetime Achievement Award: Ramon Ojeda
Legacy in Motion: Building the Future Together
Reflecting the theme “Legacy in Motion: Weaving Through the Future of Tomorrow,” the gala celebrated trailblazers whose leadership laid strong foundations that continue to uplift the Hispanic community today. Ten honorees were selected from more than 100 leaders, and the program included a special recognition honoring the legacy of Roberto Clemente, represented by the Roberto Clemente Foundation.
“Every person in this room represents a vital thread in the fabric we are building together,” said Pedro Turushina, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando. “Through leadership, service, and partnership, we are shaping a stronger Hispanic business community in Central Florida and beyond.”
Prospera Regional Vice President Katia Medina highlighted the organization’s milestone year, noting that the gala coincides with Prospera’s 30th anniversary in Central Florida.
“Our community’s spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation is vibrant and enduring,” Medina said. “We proudly carry forward the legacy planted by the pioneers who helped shape our path.”
Prospera President and CEO Augusto Sanabria added, “Their leadership laid the groundwork for the mission we continue today. Together, we are building a legacy that will benefit future generations.”
Guests enjoyed a culinary experience curated by renowned Disney Chef Luis Ruiz Guerra and the Disney Culinary team, followed by live Latin music from the band Caliente, which energized the dance floor late into the evening.
The gala was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, Wells Fargo, AdventHealth, Bank of America, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Travel + Leisure, Universal Destinations and Experiences, Florida Blue, OUC – The Reliable One, JCQ Services, JPMorgan Chase, and Sky Builders USA. Premier media partners included El Osceola Star, iHeartMedia, La Prensa, Telemundo, Univision, Florida National News, Communicate 360, and RTW Photography.
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