Business
Ambassador Rudy Moise attends groundbreaking ceremony on the $100 Million Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center
MIAMI, FLORIDA – Nick and Marc Buoniconti, University of Miami President Donna E. Shalala, Jackson Health System President and CEO Carlos A. Migoya, and other dignitaries gathered today to celebrate the groundbreaking of the $100 Million Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center.
Keith Tribble, CEO of Jackson Memorial Foundation, Ambassador at Large Dr. Rudy Moise, Vice Chair of Jackson Memorial Foundation and other dignitaries
“UHealth and Jackson provide not only South Florida, but the world with first-class health care across all areas of medicine,” Shalala said. “By combining our shared excellence in neuroscience research, clinical care and rehabilitation, we will be able to provide the most advanced and comprehensive care for patients with spinal cord and brain injuries.”
Mrs. Christine E. Lynn, whose generous donation of $25 million helped spearhead the fundraising for the center, was on hand to ceremonially break ground on the rehabilitation building. The remaining funds to build the new rehab center will come from a designated portion of the $830 million general obligation bond overwhelmingly supported by Miami-Dade voters in 2013 to upgrade Jackson’s infrastructure and build new facilities.
Once completed, the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center will offer state-of-the-art rehabilitation that will unite the spinal cord and brain injury clinical, basic science and translational research excellence of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine with the clinical and rehabilitation expertise at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
“The generosity of Christine Lynn and the community of Miami-Dade toward this project is helping cement Miami’s reputation as a global destination for cutting-edge rehabilitation,” said Migoya. “When paralysis is cured, the smart money bets it will happen at the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at UHealth/Jackson.”
Pascal J. Goldschmidt, M.D., Senior Vice President for Medical Affairs and Dean of the Miller School of Medicine and CEO of UHealth, said, “Our scientists, clinicians and technicians at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis are leading the way in exploring Schwann cell transplantation to treat spinal cord injuries. This new center for treatment and rehabilitation will help us provide extraordinary care for our patients.”
The rehabilitation center will be constructed on the corner of Northwest 12th Avenue and 16th Street on the UM/Jackson Memorial Medical Center campus near downtown Miami. The facility will be modeled after some of the nation’s leading rehabilitation centers and will encompass comprehensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services. The 100-bed, private-room facility will offer an exemplary inpatient experience for those dealing with some of the most challenging injuries. The Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center will also allow proximity to the necessary rehabilitation that accompanies the multiple clinical trials for those dealing with life-altering spinal cord and brain injuries currently led by Miami Project researchers at the medical center.
“Christine has been a true angel to those of us suffering from spinal cord and brain injuries. Her support of The Miami Project over the years has been a game changer in terms of catapulting our research, and now rehabilitation, to new heights. This facility will combine UM/Jackson’s efforts to the ultimate benefit of those unfortunately facing these life-altering injuries,” said Marc Buoniconti, president of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis.
“I have been truly moved by Marc Buoniconti’s perseverance and determination, to not only get out of his wheelchair, but to help others who are dealing with paralysis through The Miami Project,” said Mrs. Lynn. “As a former nurse, I know how difficult it can be to face paralysis and brain injuries and am eternally grateful knowing that I am able to make a difference in the lives of people suffering from debilitating accidents and diseases. The Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center will be the place where we will help make miracles and change lives.”
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Event photos of groundbreaking ceremony:
Paul Kleponis, physical therapist at JMH and Dr Rudy Moise
Nat Moore, Senior VP of Special projects for the Dolphins and former player for the Dolphins, Dick Anderson, former Dolphins player
Business
Orlando Regional REALTOR Association Event Highlights Orange County Growth, Housing Trends and Economic Outlook
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Orlando Regional REALTOR Association (ORRA) hosted its second annual State of Real Estate event for Orange County on April 17, bringing together industry professionals, policymakers and community leaders to examine the region’s housing market and economic outlook.
Held at ORRA’s headquarters in Orlando, the event focused on the evolving dynamics of residential and commercial real estate across Central Florida. Discussions centered on housing affordability, economic growth and long-term regional development.
Speakers and Panelists
- Lawrence Yun — Chief Economist, National Association of REALTORS
- Maria Henson — Senior Director of Market Research & Insights, Visit Orlando
- Racquel Asa — Head of External Affairs, Central Florida Expressway Authority
- Amy Mercado — Property Appraiser, Orange County
- Chris Atwell — Moderator, 2026 ORRA President
Industry experts said Central Florida’s economy continues to grow, though at a more measured pace. While housing and stock market wealth remain near record highs, job growth is softening, consumer sentiment has declined and loan defaults are rising — creating a market shaped by mixed signals.
Panelists noted the housing market has shifted into a more stable phase compared to the rapid growth seen during 2020 and 2021, with more balance and sustainable conditions.
Despite short-term fluctuations, long-term fundamentals remain strong. Orange County’s tax base has grown significantly since 2023, while the broader Central Florida region has experienced a 23% population increase over the past decade, with more than 1,200 people moving to the area each week.
Infrastructure and tourism were also highlighted as key drivers of future growth. Officials pointed to major roadway investments by the Central Florida Expressway Authority and the region’s continued strength as a tourism hub, drawing more than 75 million visitors in 2024.
“We’re operating in a global economy where interest rates, supply chains and migration policies all influence what happens at the local level,” said ORRA CEO Cliff Long.
Economic Trends Show Mixed Signals
Experts emphasized that strong asset values are being offset by softer job growth and declining consumer confidence.
Housing Market Enters Stable Phase
The market has transitioned from pandemic-driven volatility to a more balanced and sustainable pace.
Growth, Infrastructure and Tourism Drive Future
Population growth, infrastructure investment and tourism continue to support long-term expansion in Central Florida.
ORRA’s Impact and Benefits on the Real Estate Industry
The Orlando Regional REALTOR Association provides critical market insights, advocacy and professional resources for REALTORS® across Central Florida. Its events foster collaboration between industry leaders, policymakers and the community, helping guide responsible growth, inform housing policy and strengthen the regional real estate market.
Business
Walmart’s Road to Open Call Returns to Orlando, Offering Small Businesses Access to National Retail Opportunities
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Walmart, in partnership with the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, will host the 2026 Walmart Road to Open Call pitch event on May 21 in Orlando, offering small businesses the opportunity to present their products directly to Walmart buyers.
The Orlando event is the only Florida stop in 2026 and is part of a nationwide initiative designed to support small business growth, expand supplier diversity and strengthen U.S. manufacturing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
The Road to Open Call serves as a pathway for entrepreneurs to connect with Walmart’s sourcing team, refine their pitches and prepare for the company’s annual Open Call event in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Applications are open through May 1 at 10 p.m. EST. A select group of applicants will be chosen to participate in the Orlando event, where each business will receive a 30-minute, one-on-one pitch meeting with a Walmart buyer, along with feedback and mentorship.
Top participants may earn a fast pass to Walmart’s annual Open Call, where they can pitch for potential placement in Walmart stores or online.
FOCUS ON U.S.-MADE PRODUCTS
Walmart’s Open Call is the company’s largest sourcing event for products made, grown or assembled in the United States. The program is open to businesses across industries, including food and beverage, beauty, safety and consumer goods.
“The Road to Open Call provides a powerful platform for small businesses to grow and scale,” said Mark Espinoza, senior director of public affairs at Walmart. “By connecting entrepreneurs directly with our sourcing teams, we’re helping bring innovative, U.S.-made products to customers while supporting American jobs and local economies.”
LOCAL IMPACT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Local leaders say the initiative strengthens both entrepreneurship and the regional economy.
“We are proud to join forces with Walmart for the second consecutive year to bring this opportunity to the business community,” said Pedro Turushina, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando. “This initiative supports entrepreneurs and helps small businesses access national retail opportunities.”
Since launching in 2014, Walmart’s Open Call has helped thousands of small and midsize businesses become suppliers, while more than 85% of Walmart shoppers report valuing U.S.-made products.
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.
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