Business

Disney-DeSantis war of words heats up at annual meeting

Published

3 years ago

April 4, 2023

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Disney CEO Bob Iger on Monday said any retaliatory actions by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Republican-controlled Florida Legislature against the company that threaten jobs or expansion at its Florida resort is not only “anti-business … but anti-Florida.”

Answering a question during an online shareholders’ meeting, Iger said that the Republican governor and lawmakers appeared to be retaliating against the company for exercising its constitutional rights. He referred to the incident last year when Disney criticized Florida’s law dubbed by critics “Don’t Say Gay” while Bob Chapek was helming the company at the time. The measure bars instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, as well as lessons deemed not age-appropriate.

In response, Florida lawmakers passed, and DeSantis signed, legislation revamping the government-like board that oversees Walt Disney World’s 27,000-acre (11,000-hectare) property outside Orlando. Among the changes the legislation made was that the Florida governor got to pick the five supervisors of the governing board instead of it being controlled by Disney, as it had been in its previous 55 years.

During the shareholders’ meeting, Iger declared the company’s love for the state of Florida, noting it was the largest taxpayer in the state and employed around 75,000 workers. The company has plans to make $17 billion in investments at Disney World over the next 10 years that will create an additional 13,000 jobs, he said.

Iger acknowledged that there may have been some missteps in how Disney initially responded to the Florida legislation — the company took its time in speaking out against it publicly, and only after Disney employees exerted internal pressure. But he said the company, which is based in Burbank, California, had a right to free speech, just as individuals do.

Some shareholders during the question-and-answer period of the meeting criticized the company for promoting a “woke” agenda, while a Disney employee thanked Iger for supporting the company’s workers. Iger responded that Disney’s primary goal is to entertain and is not driven by an agenda.

By taking on Disney, DeSantis attempted to further his reputation as a culture warrior willing to battle perceived political enemies and wield the power of state government to accomplish political goals, a strategy that is expected to continue ahead of his potential White House run.

But the DeSantis-appointed supervisors said last week at the second meeting of the revamped board that their predecessors had pulled a fast one on them by passing restrictive covenants that strip the new board of most of its powers.

Disney has said all agreements were above board and took place in public.

DeSantis on Monday asked Florida’s chief inspector general, with help from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, to launch an investigation into the actions of the previous board.

DeSantis said in a letter to chief inspector general that any legal or ethical violations should be referred to “the appropriate authorities.”

“Disney is again fighting to keep its special corporate benefits and dodge Florida law,” DeSantis spokesman Jeremy Redfern said in an email. “We are not going to let that happen. As Governor DeSantis recently said, ‘You ain’t seen nothing yet.’”

Business

2026 PGA Show Takes Over Orange County Convention Center

Published

4 weeks ago

January 23, 2026

Willie David

ORLANDO, 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 ago

December 22, 2025

Willie David

Florida National News Vice President Jenny Rosario showcase a ads inside of the 2025 Don Quijote Awards Program Booklet

ORLANDO, 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 ago

December 20, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, 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.