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PHOTOS: Legendary Actor Edward James Olmos Honored by U.S. Hispanic Chamber in Orlando

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USHCC Chairman Nelson Reyneri Jr. (left) and USHCC President Ramiro A. Cavazos present acting legend and activist Edward James Olmos with the 2023 Leader of Culture Award Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.
USHCC Chairman Nelson Reyneri Jr. (left) and USHCC President Ramiro A. Cavazos present acting legend and activist Edward James Olmos with the 2023 Leader of Culture Award Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Acting legend Edward James Olmos was honored Tuesday by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for his longstanding leadership, advocacy, commitment to the elevation and appreciation of the Latino culture throughout his career and body of work. The USHCC capped its three-day conference at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal with its Leadership Gala Tuesday night.

 

Actor and activist Edward James Olmos delivers a brief speech after receiving the 2023 Leader of Culture Award during the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's National Conference Leadership Gala Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.

Actor and activist Edward James Olmos delivers a brief speech after receiving the 2023 Leader of Culture Award during the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s National Conference Leadership Gala Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.

 

 

Actor and activist Edward James Olmos delivers a brief speech after receiving the 2023 Leader of Culture Award during the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's National Conference Leadership Gala Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.

Actor and activist Edward James Olmos delivers a brief speech after receiving the 2023 Leader of Culture Award during the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s National Conference Leadership Gala Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.

 

Actor and activist Edward James Olmos delivers a brief speech after receiving the 2023 Leader of Culture Award during the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's National Conference Leadership Gala Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.

Actor and activist Edward James Olmos delivers a brief speech after receiving the 2023 Leader of Culture Award during the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s National Conference Leadership Gala Tuesday. Photo: J. Willie David III/Florida National News.

 

“He stands as a living legend in our community, both on and off the screen, with an unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting our rich Latino culture,” said the USHCC in a statement on its National Conference website. “His lifelong dedication to amplify Latino voices through his artistry, activism, and numerous business endeavors, such as establishing the Latino Public Broadcasting and passion in seeing literacy thrive in underserved communities, reflects only a small part of why he is a cherished leader.

“His efforts have significantly contributed to fostering inclusivity in the entertainment industry and worldwide. This award holds a special significance, especially during the ongoing guild strikes to which we are in complete solidarity.”

 

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Mellissa Thomas is the Managing Director of FNN News Network. | mellissa.thomas@floridanationalnews.com

Business

Avelo Airlines Expands Lakeland Base with Atlanta, Detroit Flights and Second Aircraft

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LAKELAND, Fla. (FNN)Avelo Airlines is expanding its footprint at Lakeland International Airport (LAL) with the return of nonstop service to Atlanta (ATL), the launch of new spring training flights to Detroit (DTW), and the addition of a second based aircraft to its growing Central Florida hub.

The expansion follows 18 months of successful operations at Lakeland International and reflects strong community support and Avelo’s commitment to offering convenient and affordable air travel for Central Florida passengers.

Avelo’s new service lineup includes:

  • Detroit (DTW): Begins February 11, 2026, with twice-weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

  • Atlanta (ATL): Begins February 13, 2026, offering five flights per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

With the addition of these routes, Avelo will now serve 10 nonstop destinations from its Lakeland base.

Flights will be operated with Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, known for their comfort and reliability. Introductory one-way fares start at $34, and tickets are now available for booking at AveloAir.com.

Avelo’s expanded service to Atlanta will provide travelers with greater flexibility and access to key connecting destinations, while the new Detroit route will cater to spring training visitors and those traveling between Florida and the Midwest.

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Maria del Carmen Rodriguez Joins Florida National News as Spanish-Speaking Reporter and Co-Host

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News (FNN) is proud to announce the addition of Maria del Carmen Rodriguez as a Spanish-speaking on-camera reporter and co-host, marking another major step in the network’s statewide expansion and celebration of its 11th anniversary.

Rodriguez joins the growing team at FNN News en Español, where she will bring her bilingual communication skills and cultural insight to the forefront of FNN’s Spanish-language news and lifestyle programming. Her arrival underscores FNN’s commitment to serving Florida’s rapidly growing Hispanic and Latino communities with trusted, relevant, and inspiring storytelling.

FNN President J. Willie David, III stated, “Maria del Carmen Rodriguez represents the next generation of diverse storytellers who connect authentically with our audiences. Her addition reflects FNN’s continued mission to expand across Florida while elevating Hispanic voices in broadcast journalism. We are proud to welcome her as part of our 11th anniversary and our vision for the next decade of growth.”

FNN Vice President Jenny Rosario shared, “Maria brings a natural warmth and professionalism to every story she tells. Her passion for community-driven journalism and ability to connect with Spanish-speaking viewers make her a valuable asset to our team. She will help us continue producing content that truly reflects Florida’s diversity and the stories that matter most.”

FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos added, “We’re excited to have Maria join the newsroom and our on-camera team. Her bilingual storytelling ability and dedication to authentic, people-centered reporting will strengthen both our English and Spanish platforms. She embodies the spirit of connection and inclusion that defines Florida National News.”

As Florida National News moves into its next decade, the network is expanding its presence across Florida with enhanced on-camera reporting, bilingual programming, and original digital content through FNN News Network, FNN Sports Network, and FNN News en Español — continuing its mission to inform, inspire, and empower communities statewide.

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News@FloridaNationalNews.com

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Khamare Farrar Joins Florida National News as Part of Network’s 11th Anniversary and Statewide Expansion

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On-Camera Reporter and Co-Host Khamare Farrar Joins Florida National News. Photo by Florida National News

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News (FNN) proudly announces the addition of on-camera reporter and co-host Khamare Farrar to its expanding newsroom team. Farrar joins as part of FNN’s 11th anniversary celebration and the network’s ongoing statewide expansion across its English and Spanish platforms.

FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos on the set of the Florida National News Podcast en Español with new On-Camera Reporter and Co-Host Khamare Farrar.
Photo by Florida National News

Farrar’s arrival represents another milestone in FNN’s mission to amplify diverse voices and deliver trusted, impactful storytelling across Florida. The growing team will continue to strengthen coverage in entertainment, business, politics, and community-focused “Good News & Reviews” segments.

FNN President J. Willie David, III said, “Khamare’s professionalism, energy, and on-camera presence embody the next generation of journalists we’re proud to welcome to Florida National News. As FNN continues to grow its statewide footprint, we’re committed to providing more original programming, exclusive interviews, and engaging storytelling that informs and inspires our viewers.”

FNN Vice President Jenny Rosario added, “We’re building something truly special — a network that reflects Florida’s diversity and brings forward voices that matter. Khamare’s addition strengthens our entertainment and lifestyle coverage, and her charisma will resonate with our audiences across all platforms.”

FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos shared, “We’re thrilled to have Khamare join our newsroom team as both a reporter and co-host. Her enthusiasm, curiosity, and storytelling skills will help us continue producing compelling news and feature segments that connect with our audiences worldwide.”

As Florida National News moves into its next decade, viewers can expect expanded coverage, more on-camera reporting, and innovative digital programming through FNN News Network, FNN Sports Network, and FNN News en Español.

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News@FlordiaNationalNews.com

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