OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) — Jorge Figueroa, president of the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida and a longtime economic advocate, has officially entered the race for the Florida House, seeking to represent voters in the St. Cloud–Osceola County region.

Figueroa said his campaign will center on affordability, property insurance reform, and expanding economic opportunity for working families. His announcement comes as Democrats continue efforts to flip the district after recent unsuccessful attempts, including in House District 47.

“I’m running to make Florida more affordable for working families and small business owners,” Figueroa said. “I grew up in public housing in Puerto Rico and came to the mainland at 16 to chase opportunity. My parents sold everything they owned so I could get an education—a sacrifice that changed my life.”

As president of the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce, Figueroa has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs, helping small businesses grow and strengthening economic pathways for local families. He said too many Floridians continue to struggle with skyrocketing property insurance costs, unaffordable rent, and rising prices for essentials such as groceries and gas.

The seat—representing a key portion of Osceola County—has become increasingly competitive in recent cycles, and Democrats hope Figueroa’s business background and personal story will energize voters ahead of the 2026 election.

Democrat Anthony Nieves, a former state financial crimes investigator is running again for Florida House District 47 seat.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News was the first media outlet to learn—during an exclusive one-on-one interview—that La’Tonya Stark has been appointed Vice President of Engagement for the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association (ORRA), as confirmed by CEO Cliff Long.

In her new role, Stark will oversee all areas of marketing, communications, philanthropy, community outreach, events, and business development for the major real estate trade association. She brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing and communications, having served in key roles at major Florida brands including Disney Destinations, Wyndham Worldwide, and Holiday Inn Club Vacations.

Stark also has an extensive military background, serving more than 12 years as a Public Affairs Officer in the U.S. Navy. She earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism and public relations from the University of Central Missouri and later completed her master’s degree in administration with a concentration in human resources at Central Michigan University, according to ORRA’s website.

Florida National News Managing Editor Monica Hoyos secured the impromptu exclusive interview with Stark during ORRA’s annual Veterans Day Celebration held at the organization’s World Headquarters in Orlando.

Stark Expresses Excitement About New Leadership Role

During the interview, Stark shared her enthusiasm about stepping into the Vice President of Engagement role, describing it as an opportunity to expand ORRA’s community impact and member engagement. She also highlighted her passion for leadership development and elevating the real estate industry through strong communications and outreach.

A Veteran’s Story: Service, Leadership, and Style

Stark discussed her career in the U.S. Navy, where she refined her public affairs and leadership expertise. She also noted her love for professional fashion, often being recognized as a trendsetter within the industry.

Florida National News captured WWII veteran Sallie Amato’s speech at ORRA’s Annual Veterans Luncheon, where the organization also wished her a happy 102nd birthday. Photo by J Willie David, III / Florida National News.

ORRA’s Growing Support for Military Members

Stark also spoke about ORRA’s commitment to veterans, including the launch of its annual Veterans Day Celebration and the importance of doing business with ORRA. She encouraged veterans and military-connected professionals to join ORRA’s Military Council, which plays a key role in community service and advocacy.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Osceola Magic (4-0) continued their dominant start to the season Friday night, setting a new franchise record for the largest margin of victory in a commanding 120-77 win over the Birmingham Squadron (1-3) at Osceola Heritage Park. The previous record was a 38-point win, achieved when the Lakeland Magic defeated the Cleveland Charge 129-91 in March 2022.

Javonte Smart delivered another standout performance, erupting in the fourth quarter with 12 points on 4-of-6 shooting, all from three-point range. The former LSU guard finished with 26 points, knocking down eight of the Magic’s 18 made threes.

For Birmingham, Hunter Dickinson posted a strong double-double with 16 points and 16 rebounds, while Chase Hunter added 15 points off the bench.

Osceola showcased exceptional depth, with seven players scoring in double figures. Orlando Robinson, the Magic’s two-way player, recorded his second double-double in as many games with 17 points and 13 rebounds.

Coach Dylan Murphy on Javonte Smart

“Javonte plays with supreme confidence, and we have that confidence in him. He knows what the right shots are, and even when he’s got it going, he still makes the right plays. I’m proud of him and how he’s been playing to start the season—and obviously, we need him.”

Up Next

The Magic close out their November homestand on Sunday, November 16, when they host the Squadron again at Osceola Heritage Park. Tip-off is at 3 p.m. ET. The night will feature Orlando Magic Night, presented by AdventHealth and Rothman Orthopaedics. The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive an exclusive Osceola–Orlando Magic reversible replica jersey.