Central Florida News
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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — AdventHealth is now accepting applications for its 2026 Community Impact Grants, aimed at supporting nonprofit organizations working to address critical health needs across Central Florida.
The grant program partners with community-based organizations to expand initiatives that improve quality of life and promote long-term sustainability. Eligible nonprofits serving residents in Orange, Osceola, Seminole and South Lake counties are encouraged to apply.
Applications are open from March 30 through April 16, with funding expected to begin Jan. 1, 2027.
FOCUS ON COMMUNITY HEALTH NEEDS
The grants are guided by Central Florida’s Community Health Needs Assessment, which identifies key challenges impacting residents’ well-being.
“Our annual Community Impact Grants are guided by Central Florida’s Community Health Needs Assessment to ensure we are investing meaningfully where our neighbors need us most,” said Tricia Edris, senior vice president of innovation and partnerships for AdventHealth Central Florida. “We are honored to align our resources and stand as partners to create measurable, lasting impact across the region.”
PRIORITY AREAS FOR FUNDING
The 2026 grant cycle will focus on three key areas:
- Housing instability
- Transportation
- Food insecurity
These priorities reflect social determinants of health that can significantly influence a person’s ability to live a healthy and stable life. Community organizations often serve as the first line of support for residents facing these challenges.
COMMUNITY IMPACT AND PARTNERSHIPS
Past grant recipients say the program has helped expand opportunities for residents. Crystal Davidson highlighted the impact of the initiative on workforce development.
“Schools and colleges often don’t have the funding to provide introductory workforce programs that expose students to new career opportunities,” Davidson said. “Through partnership grants like the one AdventHealth is providing, we’re able to give young people hands-on experiences that help them discover their potential and build a path toward a meaningful career.”
AdventHealth will also host an informational webinar to guide organizations through eligibility requirements, funding priorities and the application process. Interested applicants can learn more and apply through the AdventHealth website.
APOPKA, Fla. (FNN) — Apopka voters have elected Nick Nesta as the city’s next mayor following a decisive runoff victory over Christine Moore.
Nesta, a current Apopka city commissioner, secured 61.94% of the vote, defeating Moore, who received 38.06%, according to unofficial results with all precincts reporting. Voter turnout was approximately 20%, based on data from the Orange County Supervisor of Elections.
LANDSLIDE RUNOFF VICTORY
Nesta’s win marks a significant political shift in the city of about 60,000 residents in northwest Orange County. The two candidates advanced to the runoff after emerging as the top vote-getters in the initial election, which unseated incumbent Mayor Bryan Nelson.
The margin of victory — nearly 62% — underscores strong voter support for Nesta’s campaign message and leadership vision.
CAMPAIGN DYNAMICS AND VOTER RESPONSE
Despite Moore receiving endorsements from prominent leaders and organizations, including the Orlando Sentinel, voters ultimately favored Nesta’s platform.
Observers say the results suggest local voters prioritized campaign messaging and community connection over high-profile endorsements, including that of the outgoing Apopka mayor, whom voters rejected in the initial election.
IMPLICATIONS FOR FUTURE ELECTIONS
Nesta’s victory could offer insight into voter sentiment ahead of the August 2026 primary elections across Orange County and beyond.
Political analysts note that the outcome may signal a broader trend in which voters are responding more strongly to local issues and candidate engagement than to traditional political backing.
Nesta is set to assume leadership of Apopka as the city continues to address growth, infrastructure and community development priorities.
Central Florida News
Maribel Gomez Cordero, Rick Singh and Emily Bonilla File for Orange County Clerk of Courts Race
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) — A slate of prominent and experienced political leaders has filed paperwork to run for Orange County Clerk of Courts in 2028, setting the stage for a competitive race to succeed incumbent Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell, who is running for Orange County mayor in 2026.
According to the Orange County Supervisor of Elections Office, Maribel Gomez Cordero filed on Jan. 12, 2026; Rick Singh filed on April 7, 2026; and Emily Bonilla filed on April 10, 2026.
CANDIDATE BACKGROUNDS AND EXPERIENCE
Gomez Cordero, a current Orange County commissioner and former vice mayor. She has been elected districtwide for two terms and is known for her focus on community engagement and mental health advocacy. Her campaign emphasizes modernizing the clerk’s office with transparency, efficiency and accessibility.
Singh previously served two terms as Orange County property appraiser, making him the only candidate in the race with countywide constitutional office experience. His tenure focused on property valuation accuracy, taxpayer fairness and government accountability.
Bonilla, a former Orange County commissioner and vice mayor, also served two terms representing her district. Her background includes work in economic development, housing and community revitalization, positioning her as a candidate with experience in policy and constituent services.
WHAT EACH CANDIDATE BRINGS
If elected clerk:
- Gomez Cordero is expected to focus on modernization of court services, expanded public access and community-centered initiatives, leveraging her long record of public service and advocacy.
- Singh would likely bring a data-driven and administrative approach, emphasizing transparency, fiscal oversight and operational efficiency based on his experience managing a countywide office.
- Bonilla is positioned to prioritize accessibility, customer service and equitable access to court resources, drawing from her background in community development and public policy.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE CLERK’S OFFICE?
The timing of Russell’s resignation will determine how the vacancy is filled. If Tiffany Moore Russell submits her resignation before the end of her term, the governor could appoint a replacement. Otherwise, the race could be placed on an upcoming election ballot, potentially as early as 2026.
The Clerk of Courts office plays a critical role in maintaining court records, managing legal filings, overseeing financial transactions and supporting the judicial system in Orange County.
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