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Former State Rep. Daisy Morales Honors Veterans Day, Highlights Legislative Support for Florida’s Heroes

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Then State Rep. Daisy Morales presents a certificate of recognition to Lt. Col. Dennis Freytes (Ret.) for his longtime advocacy in Central Florida's Puerto Rican community. Photo: Daisy Morales (via Facebook).

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – Hon. Daisy Morales honors Veterans Day with a message of gratitude and legislative impact, which the former Florida state lawmaker shared on her official Facebook page.

In observance of Veterans Day, former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales shared a heartfelt message recognizing the bravery, sacrifice, and service of America’s military veterans and their families. Morales, a proud mother of a U.S. military veteran, emphasized her deep respect for those who have worn the nation’s uniform and her continued commitment to advancing veteran-related policy.

Honoring the Heroes Who Serve

“As a proud mother of a U.S. military veteran and as a former member of the Florida House of Representatives, I hold deep respect and gratitude for the men and women who have served our nation in uniform,” Morales said. “Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to defending our freedoms embody the very best of America.”

Legislative Leadership for Veterans and Military Families

During her first term in the Florida House of Representatives, Morales sponsored and co-sponsored several key pieces of legislation designed to support veterans and their families. Among her most notable contributions was House Bill 45: Educational Opportunities for Disabled Veterans, which became a national model for recognizing and assisting those who have served.

“These efforts reflect my commitment to ensuring that our veterans receive not only our gratitude but also the tangible support they deserve,” Morales added.

A Call to Action for All Floridians

As Veterans Day is commemorated across the state, Morales encourages residents to reflect on the service of veterans and to show appreciation in their communities.

“This Veterans Day, I encourage all Floridians to take a moment to honor our heroes—past and present—and to extend a hand of friendship and community to veterans and military families in your neighborhood. Let us stand united in appreciation and continue working to make Florida the most veteran-friendly state in the nation.”

— The Honorable Daisy Morales, Former Florida State Representative

Central Florida News

Orange County Announces $28,200 Public Art Opportunity at Tangelo Park Community Center

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Artists and artist teams invited to submit qualifications for artwork at the renovated center in Orlando’s historically Black Tangelo Park community

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Orange County Public Art Review Board is seeking artists or artist teams to develop artwork for the newly renovated Tangelo Park Community Center, according to a public art call announcing a $28,200 commission budget.

The request for qualifications invites participation from one or more artists or artist teams. Applications must be submitted through CaFÉ by 11:59 p.m. EST on Nov. 4, 2026, according to the announcement.

Art Opportunity in a Historically Black Community

The announcement describes Tangelo Park as a historically Black community with a proud heritage. The artwork will be developed for a community center designed to bring residents of different generations together through social services, recreation and community activities.

The center sits within a midcentury modern neighborhood next to Tangelo Park Elementary School and an adjoining outdoor recreation center.

Renovated Center Expands Community Space

According to the announcement, the renovated community center features a multipurpose meeting space, classrooms, a computer lab and offices. The site also includes an indoor gymnasium, an outdoor pool and solar gazebos available for community use.

The center’s primary purpose is to support county social service programs and recreational activities. Its spaces are also intended to accommodate family programs, community gatherings, art exhibitions, festivals and other events.

The announcement describes the facility as a welcoming extension of home, where individuals and families can gather safely and comfortably.

Application Details

The public art call lists the following information:

  • Project: Tangelo Park Community Center public artwork.
  • Location: Orlando, Florida.
  • Seeking: One or more artists or artist teams.
  • Commission budget: $28,200.
  • Application platform: CaFÉ.
  • Deadline: Nov. 4, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

Artists interested in the commission should consult the complete CaFÉ listing for submission requirements and additional project details.

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Hola at the Park Set for Oct. 3 in Altamonte Springs; Admission Free

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Florida National News and FNN News en Español will provide on-site coverage of the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at Cranes Roost Park.

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (FNN) — Hola at the Park will bring Hispanic culture, local businesses and live entertainment to Cranes Roost Park on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 2 to 6 p.m.

Hosted by the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and presented by AdventHealth, the event celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month through food, entertainment, entrepreneurship and community connections.

According to the chamber’s event announcement, admission is free, the celebration is open to the community and no registration is required.

FNN to Spotlight Businesses and Community Voices

Florida National News and FNN News en Español, official media sponsors, will be on location covering the festivities.

The FNN team will spotlight chamber representatives, sponsors, participating businesses and community leaders, while sharing attendees’ perspectives throughout the afternoon.

Coverage will highlight the people, businesses and cultural traditions contributing to the celebration.

Photo: Florida National News

Food, Entertainment and Family Activities

The chamber’s announcement lists authentic cuisine, live entertainment, local businesses, wellness experiences, community resources, networking and family-friendly activities among the event’s offerings.

Attendees will have opportunities to explore Hispanic traditions, connect with entrepreneurs and learn about organizations serving Central Florida.

Photo: Florida National News

A Waterfront Setting in Uptown Altamonte

Cranes Roost Park, located in Uptown Altamonte, features a waterfront setting with scenic walkways around Cranes Roost Lake and the Eddie Rose Amphitheater and floating stage.

The park will serve as the gathering place for an afternoon celebrating Hispanic heritage and the connections between culture, business and community.

Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
  • Time: 2–6 p.m. EDT
  • Location: Cranes Roost Park, Altamonte Springs
  • Host: Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando
  • Presenting sponsor: AdventHealth
  • Admission: Free and open to the community
  • Registration: Not required

Photo: Florida National News

Vendor Inquiries

For information about vendor opportunities, contact the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando at info@hispanicchamber.com or events@hispanicchamber.com.

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Central Florida News

Orlando Magic Announce $20 Tickets, $2–$7 Concessions for Home Games

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New affordability options include ticket offers, merchandise deals and select concessions at Kia Center.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Orlando Magic announced new affordability options Wednesday, including $20 ticket offers, select concessions priced from $2 to $7 and merchandise starting at $15, aimed at making home games more accessible to fans.

The initiative includes monthly ticket promotions, community ticket programs, designated concession value menus and retail deals at Kia Center.

“Making Magic games accessible to every fan has always been a priority for our organization, and this season we worked closely with the DeVos family to build on that commitment,” said Charlie Freeman, the Magic’s president of business operations.

$20 Ticket Offers and Community Programs

The Magic’s Monthly Steals Program will offer $20 ticket options for every home game, with offers released on the first of each month.

The team also will offer group ticket options, including complimentary tickets through the Jr. Magic and Honor Roll programs. Discounted tickets will be available to Orange County Public Schools staff and through OneBlood donations.

Fans can find more information at OrlandoMagic.com/MonthlySteals or by calling 407-89-MAGIC.

Concession Value Menu Features Items From $2 to $7

The Fan Favorites Value Menu will be available at Slam Dunk in Section 115 and Flavors of Orlando in Section 218.

Select food and beverage items will cost between $2 and $7. Options include hot dogs, pretzel bites, popcorn, nachos, cookies, chips, bottled water, soda and beer.

“From affordable ticket and concession options to retail merchandise deals, we want to make sure a Magic game remains within reach for families across our community,” Freeman said.

Merchandise Deals Start at $15

The Magic will offer an item of the game at every home game, with merchandise starting at $15.

Weekly deals at the Magic Authentics team shop at Kia Center also will feature a $15 hat or T-shirt. The team’s Eighty9 Collection, an affordable private-label merchandise line, will be available in the shop at each game.

SunRail Partnership Supports Game-Day Transportation

The Magic said they will continue working with SunRail to ensure trains operate after weeknight home games, allowing fans to ride free with a game ticket.

According to the announcement, SunRail serves 17 stations across Central Florida, including locations in DeLand and DeBary, and provides access near Kia Center.

Keeping Games Within Reach for Fans

Freeman said the affordability initiative reflects the ownership group’s commitment to maintaining access as the team grows.

“The DeVos family ownership has been clear that growth on the court should go hand-in-hand with keeping this experience affordable for the fans who support us every night,” he said.

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