Business

Don Quijote Awards Finalists and Hispanic Community Champion & Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients Announced

Published

10 years ago

December 11, 2015

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — At a press conference sponsored by Florida Blue, the Hispanic Business Initiative Fund of Florida, Inc. (HBIF) and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO) announced the Lifetime Achievement Award and Hispanic Community Champion Award recipients as well as the 12 finalists from 4 other categories for the 18th Annual Don Quijote Awards.

The award winners in those 4 categories will be announced at the Don Quijote Awards Gala on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015 at the Epcot World Showplace Pavilion. Each year, the Don Quijote Awards recognize business excellence, dedication to service and outstanding professionalism among Central Florida’s Hispanic community.

“Each year as we prepare for the Don Quijote Awards Gala, we are reminded of the admirable talent, service and leadership that exists in our community,” said HBIF President and CEO Augusto Sanabria. “We have the privilege of recognizing these individuals and celebrating their accomplishments, which benefit all of Central Florida.”

“This event, which has become an annual tradition in our community, is a great celebration for the Hispanic community of Central Florida. We cherish the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of outstanding business and civic leaders, whose contributions to our community have demonstrated success serving as inspiration to many in our region. We are honored to be part of such an amazing community filled with such amazing talented individuals,” said Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando President Diana Bolivar.

Honorable Mel Martinez will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his impact and legacy on the Hispanic community in Central Florida and the nation. He was elected to the United States Senate in 2004, representing Florida as a U.S. Senator. Prior to his time in the Senate, he served as the 12th Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). He was the first Cuban-American to serve in both of these high ranking positions.

Senator Martinez also served as Mayor of Orange County (Orlando, FL) and prior to his public service, he practiced law for 25 years having received both his B.S. and J.D. degrees from Florida State University. Today, Senator Martinez serves as Chairman of the Southeast U.S. & Latin America for JP Morgan Chase & Co.

The Hispanic Community Champion Award recognizes a non-Hispanic individual who has supported, promoted the advancement, and demonstrated leadership or involvement for the benefit of the Hispanic community in Central Florida. Aaron Hill, General Manager for Reed Nissan, is the recipient of this award in recognition of his generous spirit and his passion for the community.

For Hill, Reed Nissan is more than just a place to sell cars; It’s a place where the community—its citizens and its businesses—can come together. Aaron has developed numerous Hispanic outreach initiatives. On several Saturdays throughout the year, Aaron invites Hispanic businesses to showcase their products, goods or services on the showroom floor. He has also made it a priority to contract Hispanic-owned businesses as a way to support their economic growth. Even with a busy schedule, he finds time to mentor Latino youth.

Beyond those two prestigious awards, three finalists were named in each of four categories. The 18th Annual Don Quijote Awards finalists are:

Hispanic Business of the Year, Five Years or Less

Chatter Buzz – Asheley Cisneros and Shalyn Dever
E-Vacations, Inc. – Maria Guardera and Marco Antonio Galindo
Hispanic Family Counseling, Inc. – Denisse Lamas

Hispanic Business of the Year, More Than Five Years

Albu & Associates, Inc. – Jason and Andrew Albu
ECX Electronics – Ricardo and Rick Ballester
FLQ Interior Design – Erika Benfield

Professional of the Year

Dr. Cyndia Muñíz, University of Central Florida
Gloria Puerto, Feed and Fortify Community Organization, Inc.
Karla Radka, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida

Excellence Award

Henry Maldonado, Enzian and Florida Film Festival
Janet Perez Eckles, Language Line Solutions
Shawn Seipler, Clean the World Foundation

The Don Quijote Awards are made possible thanks to the support of the Central Florida business community. The event sponsors include Walt Disney World Resort, Florida Blue, CenturyLink, Darden, Florida Hospital, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase & Co., Orlando Health, Orlando Magic, Duke Energy, Fields Auto Group, and UPS, among others.

For more information on the Don Quijote Awards, please visit www.donquijoteawards.com.

About the Hispanic Business Initiative Fund of Florida, Inc.

The Hispanic Business Initiative Fund of Florida (HBIF) is the leading Hispanic economic development nonprofit organization specializing in providing bilingual assistance to Hispanic entrepreneurs trying to establish or expand their business in the State of Florida. Since 1991, HBIF has promoted the Hispanic entrepreneur, provided programs and created community partnerships to advance economic development and foster job creation. For more information, visit www.HBIFFlorida.org or call 407-428-5872.

About the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando

The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide leadership and support the economic development of the Hispanic business community of Metro Orlando. Since 1993, HCCMO has strengthened the Central Florida Business Community by providing quality programs through our business model of networking, business development, exposure and recognition. For more information about the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.hccmo.org or call 407-428-5870.

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Business

FNN Highlights Managing Editor Monica Hoyos During National Hispanic Heritage Month

Published

6 days ago

October 14, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News continues its celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month by spotlighting another Hispanic leader within its network — Managing Editor Monica Hoyos, a proud first-generation Colombian American whose professional journey reflects her passion for communication, cultural connection, and community empowerment.

A Career Built on Connection and Communication

Monica holds a B.A. in Communications and Spanish from Old Dominion University and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in TESOL from George Mason University. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to bridging language and cultural gaps as both a professional interpreter and voiceover actor, bringing clarity and authenticity to English and Spanish audiences alike.

In 2025, Monica joined Florida National News as Managing Editor, Reporter, and Co-Host of the FNN News Podcast en Español, where she uplifts diverse voices through storytelling, interviews, and press coverage that reflect the heart of the Hispanic community.

Empowering Communities Through Leadership

Beyond her work with FNN, Monica serves as an Independent Contractor, working as Lead Project Manager for Esther Wise Community Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and as Senior Project Manager for Aravicta, a minority- and women-owned business offering professional speaking, coaching, and communication training for leaders and executives.

In both roles, Monica leverages her leadership and expertise to strengthen community initiatives, create inclusive programs, and promote representation for underrepresented voices across various industries.

Celebrating Heritage and Representation

Monica embraces her Colombian heritage with pride and purpose. She views Hispanic Heritage Month as both a celebration and a responsibility.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor our roots while celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of our community,” said Hoyos. “I carry my family’s journey and culture with me in every role I take on, and I’m committed to opening doors for others to do the same.”

Through her work, Monica continues to embody the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month — honoring her roots, connecting cultures, and empowering others to raise their voices.

___________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Business

ORRA President Lawrence Beillo Shares Expert Tips on Homebuying Trends with FNN TV

Published

2 weeks ago

October 9, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News TV Talks Real Estate welcomes special guest Lawrence Bedillo, President of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association (ORRA), for an in-depth discussion on Florida’s housing market and the latest trends shaping homeownership this fall.

Market Insight:
A recent Realtor.com study identifies October 12–18, 2025, as the best week to buy a home this year. During this key period, buyers can expect more listings, lower prices, and reduced competition. According to the report, homebuyers could save over $15,000 compared to peak summer prices as inventory rises and homes stay on the market longer.

Expert Perspective:
In the exclusive video interview, ORRA President Lawrence Beillo shares his insights on what this means for Central Florida buyers and sellers, offering valuable advice on navigating the market, preparing for purchases, and making informed decisions during this ideal buying window.

Watch the full video interview with ORRA President Lawrence Beillo on the Florida National News TV platform and Facebook channels.

________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Business

“Bar Rescue” Star Jon Taffer Launches Florida’s First Taffer’s Tavern in Orlando

Published

3 weeks ago

October 2, 2025

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Hospitality entrepreneur and “Bar Rescue” host Jon Taffer has announced the official grand opening of Taffer’s Tavern Orlando on Wednesday, October 15. Located along International Drive, the debut marks the franchise’s first Florida location and introduces a refreshed design, reimagined menu, and immersive brand experience that Taffer calls the blueprint for the brand’s national expansion.

FNN Good News & Reviews is set to capture the one-of-a-kind experience as hospitality mogul Jon Taffer brings his Taffer’s Tavern franchise to Orlando with a highly anticipated grand opening on October 15, on I-Drive. The new tavern unveils a reimagined menu, spirit-infused sauces, and an exclusive lineup of signature cocktails, highlighted by Taffer’s own Browned Butter Bourbon.

A New Era for Taffer’s Tavern

Franchisee Nilesh Patel, a seasoned hospitality operator, brings the Orlando location to life in one of the city’s busiest entertainment districts. Just steps away from hotels, convention centers, and attractions, the tavern is positioned to welcome a mix of locals, tourists, and business travelers.
“Orlando is the perfect city to debut Taffer’s Tavern in Florida,” Patel said. “With its energy, diversity, and constant flow of visitors, it’s an ideal backdrop for the elevated tavern experience Jon has created.”

Elevated Comfort Food with Spirit-Infused Flavors

Inspired by traditional Old World pubs, Taffer’s Tavern features bold comfort food crafted with modern flair. Spirit-forward sauces developed with Taffer’s spirits portfolio infuse familiar dishes with innovative flavor. Menu highlights include:

Bourbon Burger – Browned Butter Bourbon sauce, glazed caramelized onions, whiskey bacon, cheddar, brioche bun ($17.95)
Hangover Wings – Twice-cooked chicken wings with flavors like michelada, tequila lime, and cinnamon whiskey ($12.95)
Whiskey Business Burger – Whiskey ketchup, bacon, arugula, fried egg, provolone, American cheese, brioche bun ($18.95)
Salted Caramel Triple Chocolate Brownie – Served with house-made honey bourbon ice cream and spiced rum caramel ($13.95)

Jon Taffer’s Vision for Expansion

Taffer says Orlando will serve as the model for future franchises. “This expansion into Orlando is more than just launching another location—it’s the blueprint for the future of Taffer’s Tavern,” he explained. “We’ve built a model that’s smarter, stronger, and designed to scale. Orlando is a natural fit for our brand, a city that thrives on energy, excitement, and hospitality.”

In addition to its food menu, the tavern features proprietary cocktails built around Taffer’s Browned Butter Bourbon, a whiskey with bold vanilla and toffee notes, inspired by Taffer’s work on “Bar Rescue.”

For reservations and franchise opportunities, visit tafferstavern.com.