Central Florida News
Orange County Convention Center announces new Gold Key partnership with Walt Disney World
Published
2 years agoon
By
Willie DavidThe Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) is pleased to announce its newest Gold Key partnership with Walt Disney World.
The agreement between the OCCC and Walt Disney World offers exposure to show managers, exhibitors and attendees visiting the OCCC through a range of sales and marketing channels to build relationships and host events off-site. The agreement is effective May 1, 2023, and runs for a three-year term. The contract also includes three additional one-year renewal periods, upon mutual agreement.
“The Center’s Gold Key Partnership with Walt Disney World will greatly enhance our mission and support our clients’ events in our destination,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “Walt Disney World’s premier resources and offerings will be extremely valuable for our customers, exhibitors and sponsors.”
Disney Meetings & Events offers meeting planners and attendees access to world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources that transform clients’ events into unforgettable experiences. From customized, private events across Disney theme parks, water parks or resorts to full-scale productions onsite at the Orange County Convention Center, the possibilities are endless when working with Disney’s legendary creativity, storytelling and attention to detail.
“We are thrilled to work alongside the Orange County Convention Center through this new Gold Key relationship, infusing the magic and wonder of Disney storytelling into the conferences and conventions coming to Central Florida,” said Vice President of Walt Disney World Gatherings, Ramiro Vazquez. “Event planners and exhibitors will have full access to exclusive benefits and world-class Disney entertainment, production and creative resources onsite at the Orange County Convention Center or at our Walt Disney World theme parks.”
The OCCC’s Gold Key Partners represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. Transformational Experiences come to life by working with these partners, who share the Center’s vision and mission.
Central Florida News
Orange County Mayor Demings Breaks Ground on $7 Million Osprey Sound Affordable Housing Community for Seniors
Published
22 hours agoon
October 31, 2025By
Willie DavidORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – Orange County leaders broke ground today on Osprey Sound, a new 100-unit affordable apartment community for seniors located at 5453 Rio Grande Avenue.
Developed by Denver-based Ulysses Development Group, Osprey Sound will offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom units designed for residents aged 62 and older earning at or below 70 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI).
The County supported the project with a $7 million investment from its Affordable Housing Trust Fund, in addition to $378,000 in impact fee waivers to help make the development possible.
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, District 6 Commissioner Michael Scott, and District 3 Commissioner Mayra Uribe attended the groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the milestone.
“With housing developments like these, we are moving the needle in our community to make housing more affordable,” said Mayor Demings. “The seniors living here will be incredibly blessed with a good place to live. This is going to uplift the entire community.”
Since the creation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund in 2020, Orange County has allocated $58 million to support more than a dozen affordable housing projects, creating nearly 2,400 new affordable units. In October 2025, the Board of County Commissioners approved an additional $58.5 million investment over the next three years, expected to create or preserve an estimated 3,570 affordable housing units.
Set to open in Spring 2027, Osprey Sound will feature a variety of modern amenities, including:
In-unit washers and dryers
Stainless steel appliances
Walk-in closets
A fitness center
A business center
Multipurpose space for resident activities and crafts
A swimming pool
The Osprey Sound project underscores Orange County’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to affordable housing and improving quality of life for seniors across Central Florida.
Central Florida News
Orange County Clerk Hosts “HalloWedding” Ceremonies for Couples Saying “I Do” This Halloween
Published
23 hours agoon
October 30, 2025ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Love is in the spooky air this Halloween as the Orange County Clerk of Courts invites couples to celebrate their big day with a festive twist during its “HalloWedding” themed ceremonies on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ceremony rooms at the Orange County Courthouse in downtown Orlando and the Winter Park branch will be decorated for the fall season, providing a whimsical and memorable setting for couples ready to say “I do” to their boo.
“This event is all about bringing our community together in a creative and festive way,” said Orange County Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell. “Couples can celebrate their love while adding their own personal touch to a day that will be remembered for years to come.”
Costumes Welcome—but Follow the Rules
Couples and guests are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes to add flair to their ceremonies, but all costumes must comply with courthouse security regulations.
Masks or face paint may only be applied right before the ceremony and must be removed immediately afterward.
Masks are not permitted while walking through courthouse buildings.
Costume accessories resembling weapons—including plastic swords, guns, or handcuffs—are strictly prohibited.
Outfits must be publicly appropriate and not sexually explicit or revealing.
These rules ensure that couples can safely enjoy the festivities while maintaining courthouse security standards.
Appointments, Fees, and Marriage License Details
Couples can schedule appointments in advance or walk in on the day of the event; however, appointment slots are limited, and early registration is encouraged. Both the marriage license and the ceremony require separate fees.
Florida residents should be aware of a possible three-day waiting period before the ceremony, depending on specific requirements. Couples are urged to visit the marriage section of the Clerk’s website for detailed information on eligibility, documentation, and fees.
Marriage licenses remain valid for 60 days, so couples must confirm that their license is active on their ceremony date.
For those preferring a traditional wedding, the Clerk’s Office will also conduct ceremonies at all locations, including Apopka and Ocoee branches, on Halloween or any regular business day.
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News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Central Florida News
Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Hosts 8th Annual Halloween Safety Spooktacular in Sanford
Published
2 days agoon
October 29, 2025By
Willie DavidSEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) is inviting the public and media to its 8th Annual Halloween Safety Spooktacular, presented by The Hartford in partnership with Seminole State College, Hits 96.5, K92.3, Wal Rose, and Nationwide Insurance – Charles Davis.
This family-friendly haunted trunk-or-treat event will take place on Thursday, October 30, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Seminole State College, located at 100 Weldon Boulevard in Sanford. A designated parking area will be available to ensure a safe and organized experience for all attendees.
Family-Friendly Fun with Safety in Mind
Children and families will enjoy a safe evening of trick-or-treating at more than 40 themed displays decorated by members of the SCSO and various Seminole County partner agencies, including the Fire Department, Emergency Management, and Seminole State College.
In addition to the trunk-or-treat experience, guests can enjoy live music, entertainment, and candy giveaways while supplies last. The SCSO encourages families to attend in costume and enjoy a night of fun, safety, and community spirit.
Community Partnerships Make the Magic Happen
The event highlights the ongoing collaboration between law enforcement, local organizations, and community partners to promote safety and connection among Seminole County residents. Sponsors like The Hartford and local radio stations help make the Halloween Safety Spooktacular a memorable experience each year.
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