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FNN’s Hidekel Griffin Joins 2024 Graduating Class of Orlando’s Government Academy

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Orlando City Commissioner Tony Ortiz celebrate the Annual City of Orlando Government Academy. Source Hidekel Griffin, Florida National News

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – The City of Orlando celebrated its Government Academy graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone for its participants, including Florida National News social media reporter Hidekel Griffin, a member of the 2024 graduating class.

The ceremony, held at the Orlando Police Training Facility, brought together graduates, government officials, and notable Central Florida figures in an exciting event that underscored the power of civic engagement and education.

Annual City of Orlando Government Academy. Source Hidekel Griffin, Florida National News

 

Established by Orlando City Commissioner Tony Ortiz in 2014, the Government Academy was designed to empower residents to understand and engage with their government. Commissioner Ortiz, reflecting on the academy’s purpose, shared his vision: “True government power resides in the hands of the people. By teaching them the importance of understanding government, we can guide them in making the most of their governmental resources.”

Ortiz emphasizes the belief that educated citizens are essential for a thriving community, and he remains committed to improving residents’ quality of life through this educational initiative.

About the Government Academy Program

The Government Academy is a comprehensive 12-week program that covers government structures from the federal to the municipal level. Each session is taught by government leaders from Orlando and Orange County, offering students the chance to connect directly with professionals, gain practical insights, and foster relationships with like-minded residents passionate about civic engagement.

  • Participants receive hands-on learning opportunities and in-depth knowledge about the functions and services provided by various government agencies.
  • Graduates are awarded a certificate of Continuous Education Units from UCF, further solidifying the program’s educational impact.

Annual City of Orlando Government Academy. Source Hidekel Griffin, Florida National News


Takeaways for Orlando Residents

  • Educational Empowerment: The academy equips Orlando residents with essential tools to effectively engage in local governance.
  • Community Impact: Graduates are better positioned to contribute to their communities, enhancing Orlando’s civic landscape.
  • Networking and Collaboration: Participants build connections with professionals and peers, creating a strong network for future civic involvement.

Annual City of Orlando Government Academy. Source Hidekel Griffin, Florida National News

The next Government Academy session will begin on March 4, 2025, with an English-language program running through June 3, followed by a Spanish-language session later in the year. Orlando residents interested in deepening their understanding of government are encouraged to register.

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

Central Florida News

State Rep. Rita Harris Reelected Without Opposition in Florida House District 44

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida State Representative Rita Harris has secured reelection to the Florida House after no opposition qualified to challenge her in District 44 during the state’s candidate qualifying period.

Harris, a Democrat representing House District 44, will return to Tallahassee for another term after neither a Republican, third-party nor write-in candidate entered the race.

Her uncontested reelection reflects continued support within the district and allows her campaign to shift its focus toward supporting Democratic candidates and legislative priorities ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session.

House District 44 includes portions of west Orange County and surrounding communities in Central Florida.

Florida’s General Election is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.

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Central Florida News

Congressman Maxwell Frost Secures Third-Term Run Following Candidate Qualifying Period

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US Congressman Maxwell Frost gives federal update

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost secured an easy path to a third term representing Florida’s 10th Congressional District after no Democratic, Republican or write-in challengers qualified before the close of Florida’s candidate qualifying period Friday.

“I’m proud that the people of Central Florida continue to put their trust in me, and I don’t take that for granted,” Frost said. “Over the last term, we’ve delivered real results, and now it’s time to build on that.”

Campaign Focuses on Down-Ballot Races

Despite facing no major-party opposition, Frost said his campaign is expanding its political operation to help Democrats compete across Central Florida.

“We’re focused on electing Democrats up and down the ballot.”

The campaign has recruited 87 fellows this summer as part of its year-round organizing program for young people ages 16 to 24. Campaign officials said participants will engage in door-to-door canvassing, phone banking and voter outreach efforts while supporting Democratic candidates throughout the region.

According to the campaign, more than 162 fellows have participated in the program, helping contact more than 157,000 voters during the current election cycle.

Historic Member of Congress

Frost made history in 2022 as the first member of Generation Z elected to Congress. He represents Florida’s 10th Congressional District, which includes much of Orlando and surrounding portions of Orange County.

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Central Florida News

State Rep. Bruce Antone Wins Reelection Unopposed

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida State Representative Bruce Antone has won reelection to the Florida House after qualifying for the 2026 election cycle without opposition.

Antone, who represents portions of Orange County, remains the longest-serving Democratic state lawmaker in Orange County and one of the most senior members of Florida’s Democratic legislative delegation.

Following his reelection, Antone thanked supporters in a statement posted on Facebook.

“Today, I was reelected to the Florida House of Representatives. I didn’t have any opposition. Thank you to everyone who has supported me during my time and tenure in the Florida House of Representatives,” Antone wrote.

Under Florida election law, candidates who qualify for office without opposition are automatically elected and do not appear on the ballot.

Antone will begin another term in the Florida House as lawmakers prepare for the 2027 Legislative Session in Tallahassee.

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