Business
Don Quijote Awards 2024 Finalists Announced
Published
2 weeks agoon
By
Willie DavidThe announcement, made at the Great Southern Box Company, featured remarks from Yovannie Rodriguez, Esq., Chair of the 27th Don Quijote Awards Gala and Executive Vice President of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. Rodriguez emphasized, “The finalists represent the diverse talents of our Hispanic community, highlighting the remarkable contributions these businesses and professionals have made for decades.”
The awards gala will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Epcot’s World Showplace Pavilion from 6:00 PM to midnight. This year’s theme, inspired by Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, invites attendees to honor his masterpiece, Casa Batlló, with colorful masques celebrating creativity and discovery.
Finalists for the 27th Don Quijote Awards
The finalists have been recognized for their contributions across four major categories:
- HISPANIC MICRO-ENTERPRISE OF THE YEAR
- Antonio Cruz, Owner, Cruz Institute
- Helen Rojas, Owner, Kids Language Academy Preschool, LLC
- Elizabeth Ortiz, Owner, KEM Business Solutions
- HISPANIC ENTERPRISE OF THE YEAR
- Edwin Lurduy, Owner, Mecatos Bakery & Cafe
- Linsy Di Pietro, Owner, Warehouse Equipment and Supply
- Ramon Rodriguez & Lourdes Benes, Owners, Neurology One
- PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
- Aly Benitez, Vice President, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Dr. Joseph Lopez, Chief of Pediatric Head & Neck Surgery, AdventHealth
- Nilda Blanco, Senior VP of Strategic Initiatives, CareerSource Central Florida
- EXCELLENCE AWARD
- Cherisa Jerez, Author, Lake Union Publishing
- Angela Gonzalez, Executive Director, The Nurture Place
- Maritza Martinez-Guerrero, VP of External Affairs & Philanthropy, Orlando Magic
Special Honorees
- Hispanic Community Champion Award:
Dr. Laura Chilcutt, Medical Director of Medical-Social Impact, Nemours Children’s Health
Dr. Chilcutt was recognized for her transformative work providing healthcare access to underserved Hispanic communities, including launching a pediatric mobile clinic and numerous advocacy programs. - Lifetime Achievement Award:
Maritza Beltran, Executive Director of La Prensa Newspaper Orlando
Beltran’s groundbreaking career in media and community advocacy has spanned over 20 years, earning her numerous accolades for her unwavering commitment to empowering Central Florida’s Hispanic community.
What’s Next
- The winners in each category will be announced at the gala on December 14, 2024.
- Attendees are encouraged to wear colorful masques inspired by Casa Batlló to embrace the night’s theme of creativity and celebration.
Event Sponsors
The event is made possible through the support of leading organizations, including Walt Disney World Resort, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, Wells Fargo, Universal Destinations and Experiences, AdventHealth, and MCO Orlando International Airport.
For more information on the 27th Don Quijote Awards, visit www.donquijoteawards.com.
____________________________________________________________________________________
J Willie David, III and Hidekel Griffin
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com
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Business
Portada Latina Hosts Influential Gathering of Hispanic Community Leaders in Central Florida
Published
8 hours agoon
December 5, 2024ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Central Florida recently hosted an impactful event, “Connections That Make a Difference,” bringing together Hispanic leaders from government, business, education, non-profits, and international politics. This collaborative gathering showcased the vital contributions of these sectors to the growth and empowerment of the Latino community.
The event, organized by the President and Founder of Portada Latina international magazine, marked a milestone in the magazine’s 26-year journey of advocacy and support for the Hispanic community. It celebrated the power of networking and collaboration to create lasting change in Central Florida.
Leaders at the event highlighted how their shared goals and innovative approaches have created opportunities for Latinos, reinforcing their commitment to advancing the region’s prosperity. Attendees shared stories of resilience, showcased initiatives driving economic and educational progress, and emphasized the importance of cultural representation in leadership roles.
Hidekel Griffin, Florida National News’ Social Media Reporter, captured vibrant moments of the event, ensuring its essence reached a wider audience across platforms.
From fostering professional partnerships to addressing community challenges, this gathering underscored the influence and determination of Central Florida’s Hispanic leaders in shaping a better future for generations to come.
______________________________________________________________________________________
Hidekel Griffin
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association Named Florida’s Best Real Estate Trade Association for 3rd Year
Published
24 hours agoon
December 4, 2024By
FNN NEWSORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – The Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association (ORRA), the seventh largest real estate trade association in the United States, has been awarded Best Local Trade Association of the Year – Florida for the third consecutive year by the 2024 BUILD Real Estate and Property Awards.
BUILD Magazine, a renowned publication covering construction, engineering, real estate, and design industries, hosts the annual awards to recognize organizations and individuals demonstrating innovation, excellence, and commitment to client satisfaction.
A Legacy of Excellence
ORRA’s recognition reflects its leadership in innovation, growth, and diversity initiatives within the real estate industry. The organization has consistently worked to support its over 20,000 members while driving the real estate sector forward.
This year, ORRA reached a significant milestone with the grand opening of its new 45,000-square-foot headquarters. The state-of-the-art, four-story facility accommodates ORRA’s growing membership and serves as a central hub for real estate professionals across the country. It offers premier networking spaces, educational opportunities, and event venues to foster collaboration and launch transformative initiatives.
Global Expansion and Strategic Partnerships
In 2024, ORRA expanded its global reach, signing memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with Hungary, Brazil, Albania, and India, marking the highest number of agreements in a single year. The MOU with Brazil has been particularly impactful, creating opportunities for 300,000 Brazilian professionals to engage with the Orlando real estate market and fostering stronger international ties.
“2024 has been a year of growth and new beginnings for the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association,” said Cliff Long, CEO of ORRA. “Being recognized as the best real estate trade association is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our executives and members. We’ve positioned ORRA as a national leader in the real estate industry.”
Award Criteria and Recognition
The BUILD Awards judging panel evaluated nominees based on innovation, business growth, longevity, online reputation, client feedback, and overall business performance. ORRA’s continued success demonstrates its ability to adapt to industry trends while maintaining a strong commitment to its members and community.
Impact Analysis
ORRA’s recognition as Florida’s best real estate trade association reinforces its position as an industry leader. This achievement will likely enhance its reputation both locally and globally, attracting more members, partnerships, and opportunities for innovation. Additionally, the opening of its new headquarters highlights its commitment to growth, creating significant economic and professional opportunities for its members.
Business
Mayweather Boxing + Fitness: Where Seminole County Residents Knock Out Calories
Published
3 days agoon
December 2, 2024By
Willie DavidSEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN BUSINESS) – The fitness landscape in Oviedo has transformed with the arrival of Mayweather Boxing + Fitness, a unique training facility that opened in 2022 at 2871 Clayton Crossing Way, Suite 1093. Inspired by the unparalleled boxing career of Floyd Mayweather, this studio offers a fresh and dynamic approach to achieving fitness goals.
A Passion Turned Business: Lisa Brodsky’s Journey
At the heart of this venture is Lisa Brodsky, a former attorney who found her calling in the fitness world. Lisa discovered Mayweather Boxing + Fitness during a family vacation and instantly felt inspired.
“Mayweather Fitness + Boxing completely changed my life,” Lisa shared. “I went from being a lawyer to co-owning a fitness gym that helps people achieve their goals while building a sense of community.”
To bring her vision to life, Lisa partnered with Kevin Nuñez, a professional boxer and four-time state champion who also serves as the studio’s operating partner and head instructor. Kevin’s extensive experience ensures that members receive authentic and effective training tailored to all fitness levels.
Revolutionary Fitness: A New Way to Train
Mayweather Boxing + Fitness combines the science behind Floyd Mayweather’s undefeated 21-year boxing career with modern fitness techniques. Members engage in 45- and 60-minute classes that blend boxing, strength training, and cardio conditioning, all guided by state-of-the-art smart screen technology.
This immersive experience projects Floyd Mayweather’s image during sessions, giving participants the feeling of training alongside the champion himself.
“Our classes offer fast results, intense calorie burns, and a sense of accomplishment after every session,” Lisa explained.
Classes Designed to Suit Everyone
The Oviedo location provides an array of fitness classes designed for varying skill levels and goals:
- M45 Strong: Combines boxing and strength training.
- MBody: A full-body, non-boxing workout.
- M45 Undefeated: A fast-paced, HIIT-style boxing session.
- M60 Champ: A 60-minute class fostering community and endurance.
- Boxing Fundamentals: A skills-focused workshop.
- M45 Advanced Bagwork: Geared for experienced boxers.
Each session can burn up to 1,000 calories, leaving participants energized and confident.
Additional Offerings and Community Impact
Mayweather Boxing + Fitness Oviedo goes beyond group classes by offering:
- Personal training
- Open gym access
- Free weights
Lisa and Kevin aim to create more than just a gym; they strive to foster a community hub for health and wellness.
“We want members to feel like this is their second home,” Lisa said. “It’s not just about working out; it’s about building connections and inspiring others to live their best lives.”
Mayweather Boxing + Fitness: Fitness for Everyone
The Oviedo studio welcomes individuals of all fitness levels, from beginners looking to try something new to seasoned athletes seeking a challenging workout. This accessible, high-energy approach makes it a standout fitness destination in Seminole County.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com
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