Central Florida News

Tribute to Reverend Jesse Lewis Jackson

Published

8 months ago

February 18, 2026

By The Honorable Rick Singh
Former Orange County Property Appraiser
Commentary

From marching alongside Martin Luther King Jr. to founding the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and running historic presidential campaigns, Reverend Jesse Jackson never stopped challenging America to live up to its promise.

He empowered millions to declare, “I am somebody,” and helped expand opportunities for leaders of color in politics and public life.

During the Justice for Trayvon Martin movement, I had the extraordinary honor of spending time with Reverend Jesse Lewis Jackson — not for a single meeting, but for two full weeks as I drove him throughout Florida.

What made the experience even more unforgettable was this: Reverend Jackson was traveling with his biographer, who often sat in the back seat of my car.

So for two weeks, I didn’t just have the privilege of being near a civil rights icon — I had a front-row seat to living history.

As we drove from city to city, I listened to stories you won’t find in textbooks — stories from the heart of the Civil Rights Movement. Stories of struggle, sacrifice, and strategy. Stories about the leaders he stood beside, the battles he fought, and the moments that helped shape America.

But what stayed with me just as much as the history…
was the humanity.

One of the most memorable parts of those two weeks was watching Reverend Jackson in everyday moments — especially when we stopped at one of his favorite restaurants: Cracker Barrel.

Away from microphones and stages, I saw him interact with people from every walk of life — working families, seniors, young people, staff members, strangers who recognized him, and people who didn’t.

And he treated them all the same.

With respect.
With warmth.
With patience.
With genuine attention.

It was a powerful reminder that his leadership was never about ego — it was always about people.

In his later years, like so many of our elders, there were moments when it took him a while to recognize me.

I’ll be honest — at first, I felt that familiar sadness that comes when you realize time is catching up with all of us.

But then something happened that I will never forget.

After we talked for a bit — just when I thought he still wasn’t sure who I was — he suddenly lit up and said:

“Singh! You still got the 550?”

He was talking about my Mercedes.

And in that instant, I didn’t just laugh — I felt something deeper.

Because that wasn’t small talk.

That was Jesse Jackson reminding me that even when time tries to steal memories, the important ones fight their way back. Some connections don’t disappear — they just take a little longer to surface.

I also remember something else — something personal.

At the time, I was on the fence about running for public office.

I had the desire… but I also had uncertainty.

Reverend Jackson sensed it.

He smiled and told me I was sharp, good-looking, tall, and had a good head of hair — and then he said something that I still carry with me today.

He looked at me and said:

“Singh… you are somebody.”

In that moment, I understood something great leaders do better than anyone else:

They don’t just inspire crowds.
They inspire individuals.

They plant seeds.

They remind you of your worth — and your responsibility — even when you’re not sure you’re ready.

Reverend Jesse Lewis Jackson is not simply someone who witnessed history — he helped write it.

He spent his life standing up for those who were too often ignored, mistreated, or left behind. Long before it was popular — long before it was safe — he made it his mission to challenge America to live up to its promise, not just in words, but in action.

He carried that same fight into the national spotlight, including his historic run for President, expanding the national conversation about justice, opportunity, and inclusion in ways that changed American politics forever.

What I will never forget is not only his stature — but his presence.

Even in quiet moments between stops, there was something powerful about him: calm strength, deep faith, and an unwavering sense of purpose.

Those two weeks gave me something rare —
a deeper understanding of the past… and a clearer view of what leadership truly looks like.

I will always be grateful for that experience — for the conversations, the lessons, and for the reminder that progress is never automatic.

Progress is built by people who refuse to give up.

Reverend Jesse Lewis Jackson is one of those people.

And I am proud to say I had the honor of driving him across Florida — and the privilege of witnessing up close the kind of courage, humility, and commitment that helps move a nation forward.

Thank you, Reverend Jackson.

And thank you for reminding me — and so many others — of a truth the world still needs to hear:

We are somebody.

Central Florida News

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

Published

2 days ago

October 2, 2026

FNN NEWS

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.

Business

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

Published

3 days ago

October 1, 2026

FNN NEWS

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.

Central Florida News

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

Published

3 days ago

October 1, 2026

FNN SPORTS

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.