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Target removes some LGBTQ merchandise from stores ahead of June Pride month after threats to workers

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NEW YORK (AP) — Target is removing certain items from its stores and making other changes to its LGBTQ merchandise nationwide ahead of Pride month, after an intense backlash from some customers including violent confrontations with its workers.

“Since introducing this year’s collection, we’ve experienced threats impacting our team members’ sense of safety and well-being while at work,” Target said in a statement Tuesday. ”Given these volatile circumstances, we are making adjustments to our plans, including removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior.”

Target declined to say which items it was removing but among the ones that garnered the most attention were “tuck friendly” women’s swimsuits that allow trans women who have not had gender-affirming operations to conceal their private parts. Designs by Abprallen, a London-based company that designs and sells occult- and satanic-themed LGBTQ clothing and accessories, have also created backlash.

The Pride merchandise has been on sale since early May. Pride month is held in June.

Target confirmed that it has moved its Pride merchandise from the front of the stores to the back in some Southern stores after confrontations and backlash from shoppers in those areas.

Target’s Pride month collection has also been the subject of several misleading videos in recent weeks, with social media users falsely claiming the retailer is selling “tuck-friendly” bathing suits designed for kids or in kids’ sizes.

The moves come as beer brand Bud Light is still grappling with a backlash from customers angered by its attempt to broaden its customer base by partnering with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. Bud Light’s parent company said it will triple its marketing spending in the U.S. this summer as it tries to restore sales it lost after the brand partnered with the transgender influencer.

Target and other retailers including Walmart and H&M have been expanding their LGBTQ displays to celebrate Pride month for roughly a decade. This year transgender issues — including gender-affirming health care and participation in sports — have been a divisive topic in state legislatures and the backlash has turned hostile.

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Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando Leads Transformative 2024 Executive Mission Trip to Spain

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, in partnership with JCQ Services, is set to launch its 2024 Hispanic Chamber Executive Mission Trip to Spain from November 6-10, 2024. This mission represents a major step in strengthening business connections between Central Florida and Spain through focused collaboration on Smart City innovation, sustainable development, and expanded tourism.

“This Executive Mission Trip to Spain creates a unique opportunity to connect resources and foster innovation across borders,” said Pedro Turushina, President and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando. “Our goal is to bring forth a wave of economic growth for Central Florida by building long-term partnerships in Spain.”

Key Mission Trip Highlights:

  • Catalyzing Economic and Tourism Growth: The Chamber aims to establish new business relationships and explore avenues for expanding Florida-Spain tourism by advocating for more direct flight routes.
  • Promoting Smart City and Sustainable Development Partnerships: Spain’s leadership in urban innovation aligns well with Central Florida’s goals, and this mission seeks to bring those advancements back to the region.
  • Strengthening Central Florida’s Global Economic Footprint: The Chamber’s vision includes showcasing Central Florida as a premier investment destination for Spanish businesses, especially in technology, tourism, and infrastructure.

Mission Itinerary Highlights:

  • Smart City Expo World Congress Conference
  • High-Speed Iryo Train Journey
  • Welcome Rooftop Reception in Madrid
  • Cultural and Business Engagements, including visits to El Cortes Ingles, Madrid’s Chamber of Commerce, Galeria Canalejas, the Riyadh Air Metropolitan Stadium, the Royal Collections Gallery, and a cultural immersion at the Corral de la Moreria Gala Closing Ceremony.

The mission promises to build Central Florida’s position as a dynamic economic partner for Spain, creating lasting benefits across sectors.

 

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ORRA Celebrates Landmark Milestone with Grand Opening of Innovative Headquarters in Orlando

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, ORRA President Rose Kemp, and ORRA CEO Cliff Long cut the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening of the massive new headquarters for the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association.

This building isn’t just a new facility for ORRA – it’s a national hub designed to inspire and support REALTORS® in their pursuit of excellence.

The grand opening of the massive new headquarters for the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association, Wednesday, October 30, 2024, Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Corey Williams / Florida National News)

Central Florida Real Estate Trade Giant: ORRA

The Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association (ORRA) marked a major milestone in Central Florida’s real estate industry with the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art headquarters on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. This new complex, located at 5421 Diplomat Circle, spans 45,000 square feet four stories square across three buildings on a 7.2-acre property, and is set to redefine ORRA’s offerings for its 20,000 members and the larger Central Florida community.

The grand opening of the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association’s new headquarters on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. (Photo by Corey Williams / Florida National News)

Designed to support ORRA’s commitment to propelling the real estate profession into the next century, the new headquarters prioritizes innovation, education, and growth.

ORRA’s CEO Cliff Long underscored the significance of this expansion: “It’s time to welcome our REALTORS® home to a place that can handle our rapidly growing membership. As we put a heavy emphasis on education, we need a space to accommodate an increasing list of classes and events.”

The facility was selected in 2019 and purchased in early 2021, with ORRA transforming the once-92% vacant property into a landmark along I-4.

The space is tailored for the next generation of REALTORS® with amenities that include:

  • Classrooms: Three modern classrooms equipped for educational seminars, workshops, and continuing education programs.
  • Creativity Pods: Innovative workspaces designed for collaboration and brainstorming to foster creativity among REALTORS®.
  • State-of-the-Art Media Studio: Includes a dedicated podcast room and video production capabilities, allowing REALTORS® to create high-quality media content to enhance their digital presence.
  • ORRA Innovation Lab: A cutting-edge space where members can explore and test advancements in real estate technology, including artificial intelligence and metaverse applications.
  • Gym: A wellness facility for members and staff, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
  • Major Investor Lounge: An exclusive, tech-enabled space for REALTORS® who contribute at least $1,000 annually to RPAC. The lounge features facial recognition access, comfortable seating, a wet bar, and private amenities.

Each space has been strategically designed to create an environment that fosters learning, collaboration, and productivity.

“We are at the start of an exciting new century for real estate,” Long explained. “Technology and community are intersecting hugely, and our new building exemplifies the latest trends. When our members enter this new building, we want them to feel right at home, so they’re better able to serve Central Florida.”

Hundreds attend the grand opening of the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association’s new headquarters on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. (Photo by Corey Williams / Florida National News)

The grand opening celebration offered an immersive experience for attendees with building tours, live entertainment, food and drinks, and giveaways. Attendees, including members and elected officials, were treated to a firsthand look at the cutting-edge technology and innovative spaces designed to elevate their careers and service to the community.

ORRA’s Impact on Central Florida Real Estate

ORRA’s new headquarters cements its position as the eighth-largest real estate trade association in the country, bringing with it increased opportunities for Central Florida REALTORS® to thrive in an ever-evolving market. The new space’s comprehensive facilities are a powerful resource for members to build their skills, expand their networks, and serve Central Florida’s growing housing needs.

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J Willie David, III contributed to this report.
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

 

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Kia Center to Host Hiring Events: Join the Winning Team!

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Source: Kia Center
ORLANDO, FL — Kia Center, Central Florida’s premier sports and entertainment venue, previously announced their series of hiring events which started on September 30 and will continue on December 9, and January 21, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day. These events are designed to attract passionate individuals eager to provide legendary experiences for guests while supporting local sports teams and world-class performances. With a busy calendar featuring Orlando Magic basketball and Orlando Solar Bears hockey, the need for dynamic team members has never been greater.

Job seekers will have the opportunity to explore part-time roles in areas such as guest services, security, food and beverage, and cleaning services, with same-day on-site interviews available. Applicants are encouraged to bring resumes and two forms of identification. Additionally, those attending can apply for positions at nearby venues like Camping World Stadium and Tinker Field. As a bonus, attendees will have a chance to win complimentary tickets to upcoming events, including performances by Simone Biles and Justin Timberlake. For more information, visit KiaCenter.com.

______________________________________________________

Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News

kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

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