Business
Orlando Economic Partnership Receives National 2023 Chamber of the Year Award
ORLANDO, Fla. – The Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives (ACCE) names the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) as the 2023 Chamber of the Year. The announcement came at the ACCE conference in Salt Lake City, Utah this week.
Chamber of the Year is the most prestigious and competitive award in the chamber industry. It honors exceptional chambers that have demonstrated organizational strength and made an impact on key community priorities such as education, transportation, economic prosperity, and quality of life.
“The Orlando Economic Partnership is honored to receive this national distinction,” said OEP President and CEO Tim Giuliani. “It recognizes the importance of our work to advance the benefits of our region’s growth to everyone who lives, works, learns, and plays in Central Florida.”
Noted for its innovation, adaptability, and community leadership, the OEP was chosen over finalists Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Portland Business Alliance.
“This award is a testament to the Partnership’s commitment to seizing the moment, to grow and diversify an economy that works for everyone,” said Market President for Florida Blue’s Central Florida region and OEP Board Chair Tony Jenkins. “The OEP is now nationally recognized for its critical role as a convener and catalyst for broad-based, positive, and inclusive growth.”
“Our business model aligns with being very mission-driven, which allows us to take on the big priorities of the region,” Giuliani said. “We adopted strategic foresight as a competency and as a process. As a result, we were able to develop many innovative and impact-driving programs and initiatives, including our digital twin of Orlando that we’re already using today for marketing purposes to help generate investment in the region. We are now talking to companies about how we use it as a critical resource for making decisions about the future of our region.”
The Chamber of the Year award involves a multi-stage process, which includes dynamic benchmarking, application, and interview. During the first two stages, chambers compete against the numbers. As finalists, they compete against other chambers within their category.
“Chambers of commerce play an increasingly vital role in promoting regional prosperity,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “Earning this pinnacle achievement reflects their commitment and drive to ensure the vibrancy of their communities and organizational success. Congratulations to the Orlando Economic Partnership for their outstanding leadership, dedication to its community and serving as a role model for the chamber profession.”
ACCE is an association based in Alexandria, Va., that has over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry.
ORLANDO, 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 NationalNews
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.
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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
ORLANDO, 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.
SEMINOLE 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.
Source: Mayweather Boxing + Fitness
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.
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J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com
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