Central Florida News
Congressman Maxwell Frost Takes Questions on Economy, Education, and Federal Cuts in Orlando Reddit AMA
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) took to Reddit’s r/Orlando community this past Friday for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session, addressing Central Floridians’ concerns on inflation, federal funding freezes, and the future of the Democratic Party. The discussion garnered over 81,000 views, 1,000 upvotes, and more than 350 comments and questions from local residents.
Congressman Frost on Economic Policy & Rising Costs
One Reddit user asked: Do House Democrats have a plan to offer an alternative to Trump’s economic policy?
Congressman Frost responded:
“We can’t just oppose Trump’s billionaire takeover—we must provide our vision. People don’t want marginal improvements, they want bold, transformational change.
Expanding Medicare so no one must choose between medical bills and rent.
Increasing affordable housing and enacting strong renter protections.
Holding corporations accountable for price gouging and price fixing.
Raising the minimum wage so workers aren’t stuck with $7.25 an hour.We have a popular agenda, and we must fight to reclaim the narrative. While Republicans cover up their SignalGate scandal, Democrats are working to lower costs. I’ve championed price-lowering legislation to reduce property insurance costs, grocery prices, rental fees, and prescription drug costs, including capping EpiPen prices.”
Concerns Over Federal Education Cuts & Public School Support
Another Orlando resident expressed concerns over federal funding cuts to Title I schools, fearing that many students will lose access to free lunch programs.
Congressman Frost, whose mother was a public school teacher for 37 years, responded:
“Florida’s state government is actively working to dismantle public education. Title I funding is crucial for schools serving low-income communities. In February, I marched with fellow members of Congress to the Department of Education’s doors to fight back against threats to public education.
It took Department of Homeland Security officers in body armor to keep us out. That should tell you how serious this is.
Parents, teachers, and school administrators must pressure elected officials at all levels to oppose Trump’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. A strong federal education system is more important than ever.”
Food Insecurity: Second Harvest’s Government Support Cut
A Reddit user voiced concerns over Second Harvest Food Bank losing federal food shipments, which impacts over 300 local food pantries, churches, and shelters that rely on their support.
Congressman Frost assured residents that he is taking action:
“This week, the Trump Administration canceled federal food shipments to Second Harvest, and it’s likely not a temporary cut. Hunger is a devastating crisis, affecting both physical and mental health.
I was able to secure $200,000 for Second Harvest to help offset their energy costs for food storage, but I will continue fighting for more resources to ensure families in our district don’t go hungry.”
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Central Florida News
State Attorney Monique Worrell Responds to Court’s Denial of Bond for Former Deputy in Fatal Shooting Case
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – State Attorney Monique Worrell issued a statement following the court’s decision to deny bond for Anthony Shea, a former deputy charged in connection with a fatal shooting.
Court’s Decision Reflects Seriousness of Charges
“The Court’s decision today to deny bond for Anthony Shea reflects the seriousness of the charges he faces,” Worrell said. Shea remains in custody as legal proceedings move forward in a case that has drawn significant public and law enforcement attention.
Honoring the Victim’s Life and Service
“Beyond the legal proceedings, this case is about honoring the life of a woman who dedicated herself to protecting others,” Worrell added. “This was a tragic loss of life that has deeply impacted the law enforcement community, as well as our circuit.”
Commitment to Justice
Worrell emphasized her office’s ongoing commitment to ensuring justice is served. “We continue to extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the victim during this painful time. Our office remains steadfast in ensuring that her service, her sacrifice, and her memory are met with the justice they deserve.”
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – The wait is over for music lovers across Central Florida. Star 94.5’s 5th Annual Heart & Soul Music Festival returns on Saturday, October 11, 2025, bringing an unforgettable night of soul, R&B, and funk to the Apopka Amphitheater.
Star-Studded Lineup
This year’s festival showcases some of the biggest names in soulful music. Headliners include Morris Day & The Time, The SOS Band, Dru Hill, Carl Thomas, and Chante Moore—each bringing their own timeless hits and electrifying performances to the stage. From funk classics like “Jungle Love” to smooth ballads like “I Wish,” the 2025 lineup promises an evening of nostalgia and nonstop energy.
Festival Details
Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
Gates Open: 2:30 p.m.
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Apopka Amphitheater – 3710 Jason Dwelley Parkway, Apopka, FL 32712
Labor Day Weekend Ticket Special
Fans can take advantage of a 20% discount on General Admission tickets during Labor Day weekend only. Use promo code Star20 at checkout for savings.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Central Florida’s most anticipated music events of the year.
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) — The Orange County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will host two public hearings on the proposed $8.3 billion Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget. The hearings are scheduled for Thursday, September 4, and Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 5:01 p.m. inside the BCC Chambers at the Orange County Administration Center.
Affordable Housing and Transportatio
Orange County continues its Housing For All initiative, with nearly 3,000 affordable units already created. For FY 2025-26, $17.7 million has been allocated to the affordable housing trust fund as part of a ten-year, $160 million commitment.
Transportation improvements remain a major priority, with $23.9 million designated for the Accelerated Transportation Safety Program, building on more than 60 completed projects in the program’s first year. This is part of a five-year investment of over $100 million in safety and efficiency upgrades.
Public Safety and Parks
Public safety remains one of the largest investments, with more than $1 billion allocated across Fire Rescue ($575M), Corrections ($220M), and the Sheriff’s Office ($446M). The budget supports new staff, infrastructure improvements, and additional fire stations to maintain rapid response times.
The county will also invest $133 million in Parks and Recreation for 15 Capital Improvement projects to enhance parks, trails, and recreational amenities across Orange County.
Utilities and Essential Services
For FY 2025-26, Orange County will invest $297.9 million in utility infrastructure, covering water, wastewater, reclaimed water, and solid waste systems. As an enterprise fund, Orange County Utilities is funded through customer rates and fees, not tax dollars, ensuring continued delivery of essential services.
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