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Congressman Maxwell Frost Discusses FEMA Resources, Disinformation, and NOAA’s Hurricane Hunters

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US Congressman Maxwell Frost gives federal update

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – During a press conference led by Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, U.S. Congressman Maxwell Frost addressed Hurricane Milton, highlighting FEMA resources, combating disinformation, and his firsthand experience flying with NOAA’s Hurricane Hunters to assess the storm’s impact.

Congressman Frost emphasized the critical importance of FEMA’s resources in helping Florida residents who would be impacted by the approaching massive hurricane. “FEMA will be pivotal in providing assistance to those affected, ensuring they get the help they need as quickly as possible,” he stated.

When the federal process is available to Floridians, Frost urged residents to apply for assistance through FEMA’s official channels and warned of misinformation circulating online. “We need to stay vigilant against disinformation that spreads false information about relief efforts,” he added.

Additionally, Frost shared his experience flying with NOAA’s Hurricane Hunters as they conducted aerial surveys of Hurricane Milton. The data gathered by the Hurricane Hunters has been essential in tracking the storm’s movements and understanding its impact on Florida’s communities. “Their work is crucial in helping us prepare and respond effectively to these powerful storms,” Frost explained.

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J Willie David, III contributed to this report.
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

Central Florida News

Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe Secures Reelection, Defeats Senator Linda Stewart in Heated District 3 Rematch

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ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – Incumbent Orange County Commissioner Mayra Uribe clinched victory in the District 3 race, overcoming State Senator Linda Stewart in a contentious rematch. Both candidates entered the race amid controversies that fueled headlines and scrutiny.

Takeaways:

  • Ticket Scandal and Ethics Dismissal: Uribe faced intense scrutiny after a report revealed that she had transferred hundreds of event tickets from the county’s Skybox at the Kia Center and Camping World Stadium to her husband’s nonprofit since 2019. The nonprofit, however, had not filed recent 990 tax forms, sparking questions around possible personal benefit. While ethics concerns were raised, the Florida Ethics Commission ultimately dismissed the complaint against Uribe, affirming that no ethical violations occurred. Uribe and her husband consistently argued the issue was politically motivated.
  • Policy Change on Ticket Transfers: In response to the controversy, Orange County implemented a new rule in late October to close the loophole that allowed commissioners to assign county tickets to nonprofits of their choice.
  • Stewart’s Own Controversy: Sen. Linda Stewart also faced backlash from local officials after drafting a bill with a county lobbyist that could have restricted county control over funding for Visit Orlando. The move, seen by some as undermining county authority, led to the dismissal of the lobbyist after the Orlando Sentinel reported the story. Stewart’s attempt to preserve Visit Orlando’s funding without direct county involvement frustrated county leaders, adding tension to her campaign.
  • Uribe’s Statement on Reelection: After securing another term, Uribe expressed gratitude for the continued support from her constituents, promising to maintain transparency and prioritize community needs.

Impact of Uribe’s Win:

  • Demonstrates voter confidence despite ethical challenges and a heated campaign.
  • Highlights growing focus on ethics and transparency in county governance.
  • Secures Uribe’s role in shaping policy for District 3 as Orange County enforces stricter ticket transfer rules.

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J Willie David, III contributed to this report.
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

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Central Florida News

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers for Orange County Residents Impacted by Hurricanes Open this Weekend

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ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) will open this weekend to serve residents impacted by Hurricane Milton: the Orange County Multicultural Center and the Bithlo Community Center.

The Orange County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center and a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) are at the following locations:

The Orange County Multicultural Center FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

7149 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32818

Hours:
Saturday, October 28
1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, October 27
9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Monday, October 28 –
Saturday, November 2

7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Bithlo Community Center -State of Florida Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC)
18501 Washington Avenue
Orlando, FL 32820

Hours:

Saturday, October 26, and Sunday, October 27, 2024

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Monday, October 28 through Saturday, November 2

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Apopka City Hall – CLOSED
120 E. Main Street
Apopka, Florida 32703

The FEMA DRC provides a one-stop-shop for individuals or businesses that need help recovering from loss or damage sustained during the storms. FEMA partners with local and state agencies.

Representatives from state agencies, partners, and federal organizations, along with volunteer groups, will be available to provide individual and business assistance, including:

  • FEMA Individual Assistance
  • FEMA Mitigation
  • Small Business Administration
  • Crisis Counseling
  • Florida Dept. of Children and Families
  • Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation
  • Agency for Persons with Disabilities

Individuals can also apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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Central Florida News

Fake Cop Accused of Armed Robbery and Handcuffing Woman in Orlando Hotel Room

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – The Orlando Police Department has issued an arrest warrant for Michael Darren Jesse Rodriguez, a New York man accused of impersonating a police officer and committing armed robbery at an Orlando hotel on August 23, 2024. Rodriguez, 27, of Poughkeepsie, NY, was apprehended by Georgia police and is facing multiple charges across Florida.

Crime Details:

  • Incident Date & Location: On August 23, 2024, the Orlando Police responded to reports of an armed robbery at a hotel near Universal Blvd. and International Dr.
  • Suspect’s Actions: The victim reported that an unknown man, wearing a badge around his neck, forced his way into her room, claiming to be a police officer. He restrained her with handcuffs, stole her wallet, and displayed what appeared to be a handgun in his waistband.
  • Surveillance Evidence: The victim’s account was supported by hotel surveillance footage, which also helped officers identify the suspect’s vehicle. The vehicle was seen in multiple Florida cities during August.

Crime Spree:

  • Similar Incidents: Rodriguez is also wanted for an armed robbery under investigation by the Lantana Police Department.
  • Apprehension: On September 8, 2024, Rodriguez was apprehended in Georgia by Gwinnett County Police while driving the same vehicle spotted in the Lantana and Orlando incidents.
  • Evidence Recovered: Orlando detectives recovered a fake police badge, handcuffs, and other items linking Rodriguez to both robberies.

Charges:

Rodriguez faces the following charges once extradited to Orange County:

  • Falsely Personating an Officer to Commit Felony with a Weapon
  • False Imprisonment with a Weapon
  • Robbery with a Firearm

The Orlando Police Department is encouraging anyone who believes they may have been victimized by Rodriguez to come forward and contact law enforcement.

 

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