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FL-7 Moves to ‘Likely Republican’ as Scandals Weigh on Cory Mills, Dalton Sees Opportunity

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SANFORD, Fla. (FNN) — Inside Elections has revised its rating for Florida’s 7th Congressional District from “Solid Republican” to “Likely Republican,” signaling a notable shift toward Democrats as Navy veteran and former NASA Chief of Staff Bale Dalton builds momentum in his challenge against Republican Rep. Cory Mills.

The nonpartisan election analyst cited a series of controversies surrounding Mills, including past allegations of assault, a court-issued restraining order, and an ongoing ethics investigation involving potential financial conflicts tied to government arms contracts. Inside Elections noted that “Mills’ baggage makes this one to watch.”

Dalton said the rating change reflects growing dissatisfaction among voters in Central Florida. “Today’s news proves what we see on the ground every day: voters are fed up with politicians like Cory Mills,” Dalton said. “Families in Central Florida want lower costs, safer neighborhoods, opportunities to thrive, and a representative who works for them — not himself.”

Dalton pointed to his 23 years of military service as preparation for what he calls a leadership approach rooted in putting “mission over ego and people over politics.” He added, “That’s the kind of leadership Florida needs, and that’s why I am ready to beat Cory Mills next November.”

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Central Florida News

Old Dominion Downs USF 24-10 to Win 2025 StaffDNA Cure Bowl at Camping World Stadium

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Source: StaffDNA Cure Bowl / Orlando Sports Foundation

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Old Dominion capped a historic season with a 24-10 victory over South Florida on Tuesday night, capturing the 2025 StaffDNA Cure Bowl at Camping World Stadium behind a dominant defensive effort and two rushing touchdowns from quarterback Quinn Henicle.

The Monarchs (10-3) forced five turnovers, including four interceptions, and limited the Bulls (9-4) to 333 total yards. The win marked Old Dominion’s second 10-win season since moving to the FBS level in 2014 and capped a six-game winning streak to close the year.

Henicle Leads on the Ground, Earns MVP Honors

Making his first start after longtime starter Colton Joseph entered the transfer portal, freshman Quinn Henicle rushed for 107 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries. His final score — a 51-yard run with just over two minutes remaining — sealed the Monarchs’ victory and earned him game MVP honors.

“It means everything,” Henicle said. “I didn’t play my best game, but my teammates helped me out. We got the win, and that’s all that matters.”

Henicle completed 11 of 25 passes for 127 yards, overcoming early struggles through timely runs and strong support from the defense.

Defense Forces Turnovers, Sets Records

Old Dominion’s defense proved decisive, led by safety Jerome Carter, who intercepted two passes to set a school single-season record with six interceptions. Carter’s second pick, which came during a fake punt attempt late in the fourth quarter, set up Henicle’s game-clinching touchdown.

The Monarchs also set StaffDNA Cure Bowl records for interceptions by a team (four) and solo tackles in a game, as linebacker Jeremy Mack Jr. recorded 10 solo stops.

“This team prepared like champions all year,” said Old Dominion head coach Ricky Rahne. “Bowls are important. This isn’t the NFL — this is college football.”

USF Comes Up Short Amid Key Absences

South Florida played without starting quarterback Byrum Brown and head coach Alex Golesh, who departed after the regular season. Backup quarterback Gaston Moore threw for 236 yards and a touchdown but was intercepted four times and exited early in the fourth quarter with an apparent head injury.

Despite leading 10-7 at halftime, the Bulls were held scoreless in the second half, missed two field goals, muffed a punt, and struggled to establish the run, finishing with just 52 rushing yards.

Old Dominion running back Devin Roche added 100 yards on 19 carries, helping the Monarchs control the clock and close out the win.

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CFHLA Awards David Siegel, Barb Bowden and Industry Standouts at 2025 Hospitality Gala

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CFHLA President/CEO Robert Agrusa, CFHLA 2025 Board Chair Chris Mueller, David Siegel Jr., Jacqueline Siegel, Daniel Siegel, 2026 Incoming CFHLA Board Chair Jon McGavin

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association (CFHLA) hosted its 2025 Hospitality Gala on Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort, recognizing outstanding leaders whose service and dedication continue to elevate Central Florida’s hospitality and tourism industry.

Nearly 1,100 CFHLA members, elected officials and community leaders attended the association’s premier year-end event. Honors presented during the evening included the Charles Andrews Memorial Hospitality Award, Lodging Member of the Year, Allied Member of the Year and Engineer of the Year.

CFHLA President/CEO Robert Agrusa, CFHLA 2025 Board Chair Chris Mueller, David Siegel Jr., Jacqueline Siegel, Daniel Siegel, 2026 Incoming CFHLA Board Chair Jon McGavin

The evening’s highest honor, the 2025 Charles Andrews Memorial Hospitality Award, was presented posthumously to David Siegel, founder, president and CEO of Westgate Resorts. The award was accepted by members of his family, including Jacqueline Siegel, David Siegel Jr. and Daniel Siegel. Named in honor of CFHLA’s first board chair, Charles Andrews, the award represents the association’s most prestigious recognition.

Siegel founded Westgate Resorts in 1982 with its first property built on an orange grove he owned in Kissimmee, Florida. Under his leadership, the company grew into the largest privately held timeshare company in the world and one of the nation’s largest resort developers, operating more than 13,500 rooms across 22 resorts in the United States. Prior to his passing in April 2025, Siegel announced plans to expand to more than 44 resort destinations under the VI Resorts by Westgate brand.

Throughout his career, Siegel exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit that helped transform Central Florida into a global travel destination. Westgate Resorts also became the largest private employer in the region.

Beyond his business achievements, Siegel was widely recognized for his philanthropic and advocacy efforts. He was inducted into the Central Florida Hospitality Hall of Fame in 2013 by the University of Central Florida and was honored earlier this year with the American Resort Development Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Following the death of his daughter Victoria in 2015, Siegel dedicated himself to combating the nation’s drug epidemic. He founded the Victoria’s Voice Foundation and advocated for expanded access to naloxone through congressional outreach and public education. A military veteran, Siegel also donated more than 28,000 complimentary vacations to members of the armed services. In 2025, the Westgate Foundation distributed $1.5 million in grants to community-focused organizations nationwide.

CFHLA also recognized several industry professionals for excellence and leadership:

  • Barb Bowden, area managing director of Loews Hotels at Universal Orlando, received the 2025 CFHLA Lodging Member of the Year Award.

  • Glen Lyons, president of ATMFLA Inc., received the 2025 CFHLA Allied Member of the Year Award.

  • William “Bill” Mathews, director of engineering at the Sheraton Orlando Lake Buena Vista Resort, received the 2025 CFHLA Engineer of the Year Award.

Together, these honorees exemplify the leadership, innovation and community commitment that continue to drive Central Florida’s hospitality and tourism industry forward.

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Central Florida News

Osceola Magic Fall to Memphis Hustle 125-122 on Holiday Jersey Giveaway Night

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Photo by Bernie Walls / Florida National News

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Osceola Magic mounted a determined comeback after falling behind early but ultimately came up just short in a 125-122 loss to the Memphis Hustle on Holiday Jersey Giveaway Night.

Photo by Bernie Walls / Florida National News

The Magic struggled defensively in the opening quarter as Memphis established an early advantage, capitalizing on fast-break opportunities and efficient shooting. Osceola responded with improved ball movement and increased defensive intensity, gradually closing the gap as the game progressed.

In front of an energetic home crowd, the Magic surged late in the fourth quarter, trimming the deficit to one possession in the final moments. Despite several clutch baskets and key stops down the stretch, Osceola was unable to complete the comeback as Memphis held on for the narrow victory.

The matchup showcased the Magic’s resilience and depth, highlighting their ability to respond under pressure and compete until the final buzzer. Fans in attendance were treated to an exciting contest and a festive atmosphere as part of the team’s holiday celebration.

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