South Florida News
Miami-Dade County launches largest film incentive program in Florida
Published
2 years agoon
MIAMI-DADE ( May 06, 2024 ) – The Miami-Dade County Office of Film and Entertainment has launched the largest film incentive in Florida to attract major motion pictures and television series. The film incentive, known as the High Impact Film Fund Program (HIFFP), will provide up to $50 million over the next 5 years to bring productions back to Miami-Dade County through a cash rebate of up to 20% for qualifying domestic and international productions filming locally. The HIFFP was sponsored by Miami-Dade County Commissioner René Garcia and unanimously approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
The Film Office underscores the significant economic contribution of the local film industry, generating job opportunities and showcasing our region on a global scale. Highlighting Miami-Dade County in films and TV series not only enhances our visibility but also boosts tourism and attracts investments.
The Film Office conducted an extensive year-long outreach, engaging with producers, directors, studio executives, and other industry stakeholders, including those already involved in our county’s film scene and those considering future ventures. Feedback analysis revealed the absence of competitive entertainment economic development programs has hindered major TV and film productions from choosing Miami-Dade County as their filming destination.
“The High Impact Film Fund Program is a testament to our commitment to nurturing both the artistic and economic growth of our community,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “This initiative aligns with our vision of making Miami-Dade a thriving hub for creative industries, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our county. Not only will this program create jobs, but it will support the many local businesses that are the backbone of our economy in Miami-Dade County.“
Miami-Dade County Commissioner René Garcia is thrilled over the tremendous support he has received from his colleagues on the Board of County Commission, industry stakeholders, and residents alike. “Our unmatched crews, talent, infrastructure, and locations have made Miami-Dade the perfect place to shoot movies and television series. This program will help create and sustain thousands of small businesses and good paying jobs for our residents and while bringing billions in much needed new investment to our county. I am especially excited about the possibility of growing this program with the promise of retaining our talented workforce and youth, and the economic growth a robust program can bring to our community. It will also strengthen our global competitiveness and deliver significant, long-term value to our economic future,” said Commissioner René Garcia.
“Film incentive programs support economic development by creating jobs, stimulating local spending, attracting investment, promoting tourism, and enhancing the county’s overall appeal. The main concern I always hear from producers to artists to crew personnel is the lack of a real incentive. The program will begin to position Miami-Dade as a global destination for major film and television production,”, stated Miami-Dade Film Commissioner, Marco Giron.
Miami-Dade County was recently selected as a top 10 destination and named as one of the best places to live and work as a movie maker in 2024 by MovieMaker Magazine. The Film Office also won numerous awards including the National Association of Counties (NACo) Best in Category for its Movie and TV Map Tour, and also won NACo awards for the Magic City Music Tour and the One-Stop-Shop Film Permitting Center. Also this year, the Film Office was selected among 200 film commissions around the world as a finalist for Film Commission Initiative of the Year by Makers & Shakers.
Miami-Dade County is proudly featured in some of the most iconic TV series, such as Miami Vice, Burn Notice, CSI: Miami, Dexter, Ballers, Glades, Magic City and Keeping up with The Kardashians to name a few. Major movies set in Miami include the Bad Boys franchise, There’s Something About Mary, Pain and Gain, Iron Man 3, and the recent HBO remake of Father of the Bride starring hometown superstars Gloria Estefan and Andy Garcia.
The Miami-Dade County Office of Film & Entertainment is part of The Office of Innovation and Economic Development (OIED) which catalyzes a FutureReady Miami-Dade — where investing in equity, resilience, and innovation cements our position as a global economic hub.
For more information about the High Impact Film Fund Program (HIFFP) and how to apply, please visit www.filmiami.org or contact The Miami-Dade County Office of Film & Entertainment at 305-375-3288.
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Business
Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute, Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center Welcome Dr. Anna Walker
Published
6 days agoon
July 6, 2026BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute (FEMI) and Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center (MRSE) have announced the addition of optometrist Dr. Anna Walker to their medical teams, expanding comprehensive eye care services for patients across Palm Beach County.
Walker provides comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages, specializing in primary eye care, ocular disease management, specialty contact lenses and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. Her practice focuses on preventive eye health through comprehensive examinations, advanced diagnostic technology and individualized treatment plans.
“Dr. Walker brings excellent clinical training and a compassionate approach to patient care,” said Omayra Alvarado, practice administrator for FEMI. “We are confident she will help further our mission of delivering exceptional eye care across South Florida.”
Walker earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry after receiving a Bachelor of Arts in biology from Stonehill College. She completed her residency at the Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center, where she specialized in comprehensive optometric care with an emphasis on ocular disease management and specialty contact lenses.
Her clinical training also includes refractive surgery co-management, IPL therapy and advanced diagnostic techniques. Walker is certified in laser procedures and injections through the New England College of Optometry.
According to the practices, Walker combines advanced clinical expertise with a personalized approach to patient care, focusing on preserving long-term eye health and improving patients’ quality of life.
Walker will see patients at Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute’s East Boynton Beach office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and at Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center in Boca Raton on Mondays and Fridays.
Patients interested in scheduling routine eye examinations or establishing ongoing eye care with Dr. Walker can learn more by visiting Florida Eye Microsurgical Institute or Mitchell Refractive Surgery & Eye Center.
South Florida News
Uruguay, Saudi Arabia Play to 1-1 Tie as World Cup Atmosphere Electrifies Miami Gardens
Published
4 weeks agoon
June 16, 2026By
FNN SPORTSMIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Hard Rock Stadium felt more like Montevideo than South Florida on Monday as tens of thousands of Uruguayan supporters packed the venue for Uruguay’s World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia.
FIFA World Cup 2026, Uruguay vs Arabia Saudita, Miami, Florida. Photo by Harry Castiblanco / Florida National News
A crowd of 62,764 fans created a vibrant international atmosphere, with Uruguay supporters draped in giant blue-and-white flags and chanting “U-ru-guay! U-ru-guay!” throughout the match. Despite the passionate backing, Uruguay was forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia.
The stadium was awash in light blue as Uruguayan fans filled much of the venue, transforming Miami Gardens into a home-away-from-home for La Celeste. Meanwhile, a spirited contingent of Saudi supporters occupied sections of the south stands, waving green flags and providing energetic support for their national team.
FIFA World Cup 2026, Uruguay vs Arabia Saudita, Miami, Florida. Photo by Harry Castiblanco / Florida National News
WORLD CUP ATMOSPHERE IN SOUTH FLORIDA
The match showcased South Florida’s growing reputation as an international soccer destination, drawing fans from across the globe and creating a World Cup-like environment inside Hard Rock Stadium.
Both teams battled evenly throughout the contest, with neither side able to find a decisive breakthrough. The result leaves Uruguay and Saudi Arabia with a point apiece as they continue their tournament campaigns.
FIFA World Cup 2026, Uruguay vs Arabia Saudita, Miami, Florida. Photo by Harry Castiblanco / Florida National News
FANS DELIVER MEMORABLE SCENE
While the match ended in a draw, the atmosphere was among the day’s biggest highlights. The sea of blue-and-white and the nonstop chants from Uruguay supporters were matched by the enthusiasm of Saudi fans, producing a memorable international soccer showcase in Miami Gardens.
Florida
Florida Sen. Shevrin Jones Will Not Seek Re-Election, Fuels Speculation About Congressional Run
Published
1 month agoon
May 31, 2026MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) — Democratic State Sen. Shevrin Jones announced Wednesday that he will not seek re-election to Florida Senate District 34, ending a 13-year tenure in the Florida Legislature and fueling speculation about a possible run for Congress.
Jones, who has represented Senate District 34 since 2020, shared the decision in a video posted on social media.
“After a lot of prayer, reflection, and honest conversations with the people closest to me, I’ve decided that I will not seek re-election to the Florida Senate,” Jones said.
13 Years in the Florida Legislature
Jones was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2012, where he served until his election to the Florida Senate in 2020. During his legislative career, he emerged as one of South Florida’s most prominent Democratic lawmakers, advocating on issues including education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and civil rights.
His decision not to seek another term marks the end of more than a decade of service in Tallahassee.
Speculation Grows About Congressional Bid
Jones’ announcement comes as political observers speculate that he may be preparing a campaign for Florida’s 24th Congressional District.
The seat is expected to become open following Congresswoman Frederica Wilson’s decision not to seek re-election in 2026. Wilson has represented the district since 2011 and remains one of South Florida’s most influential Democratic leaders.
Although Jones did not formally announce plans for another office, he acknowledged public interest regarding his political future.
“I know there’s been a lot of conversation about what’s next for me,” Jones said. “And there will be time to talk about that at a later date.”
Open Congressional Seat Draws Attention
Wilson’s departure is expected to trigger a competitive race to succeed her in Congress, with several current and former elected officials reportedly considering bids for the seat.
Jones’ decision to leave the Florida Senate immediately places him among the names being discussed as a potential contender for the congressional district, which includes portions of Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
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