ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – The spotlight shone brightly on Orlando this week as the 2025 Miss America competition brought unparalleled glamour, exceptional talent, and inspiring stories to the stunning Walt Disney Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. This celebrated event, steeped in over a century of tradition, united 52 delegates from across the United States and the District of Columbia, all vying for the prestigious title.

Miss America Competion 2025. Photo by Pierredens Jeune / Florida National News

The competition radiated brilliance as each contestant showcased their unique talents, delivered impactful speeches, and demonstrated a commitment to social change. The energy and passion emanating from the stage left the audience in awe, and the event reaffirmed its status as one of the most iconic and inspiring traditions in American culture.

Miss America 2025. Photo by Pierredens Jeune / Florida National News

Crown Winner: Abbie Stockard (Alabama)

Abbie Stockard from Alabama stole the show, captivating judges and attendees alike. Stockard, adorned in a breathtaking white gown, delivered a compelling speech on unemployment, advocating for actionable solutions with poise and passion. Following her address, she performed a stunning rendition of the Christian song “You Say” by Lauren Daigle, mesmerizing the audience.

“Abbie embodied grace, confidence, and purpose, leaving an indelible mark on everyone in the room,” said one of the judges. Her powerful combination of advocacy, charisma, and raw talent made her a clear favorite and earned her the coveted crown.

First Runner-Up: Annette Addo-Yobo (Texas)

Texas’s Annette Addo-Yobo brought charisma and poise to the stage, earning her the position of first runner-up. She connected deeply with the audience through a heartfelt speech on immigration and a moving poem dedicated to her brother, who lives with autism.

Wearing a radiant yellow gown, Addo-Yobo demonstrated grace under pressure when another contestant accidentally stepped on her dress. She handled the situation with elegance, gliding across the stage effortlessly. “Her poise in that moment spoke volumes about her character and confidence,” remarked a fellow competitor.

Second Runner-Up: Carley Jaymes Vogel (Tennessee)

Miss Tennessee, Carley Jaymes Vogel, wowed the audience with a speech on combating misinformation and the importance of organ donation. Known for her resemblance to a Disney princess, she performed in a dazzling blue dress reminiscent of Frozen. Her later wardrobe change to a sparkling white crystal gown left spectators in awe, with one attendee commenting, “She looked like a fairy tale brought to life.”

Third Runner-Up: Casana Fink (Florida)

Florida’s Casana Fink represented her home state with elegance and insight. Discussing the impact of technology on society, Fink captivated the audience with her eloquence and creativity. Her stunning green gown added a vibrant touch, complementing her dynamic stage presence.

Fourth Runner-Up: Stephanie Finoti (Ohio)

Ohio’s Stephanie Finoti showcased her Latino heritage in a vibrant yellow dress during her performance, transitioning later to a flowing green gown. Her discussion on alleviating student debt resonated with many, highlighting her passion for advocacy and her ability to connect with her audience.

Miss America Competion 2025. Photo by Pierredens Jeune / Florida National News

Top 11 Finalists:

• Alexandra Lotko (Colorado) – Known for her unique flair.
• Ludwidg Louizaire (Georgia) – Impressed with his engaging presence.
• Emily Schumacher (Minnesota) – Demonstrated determination and talent.
• Lauren Frost (Oklahoma) – Inspired with her innovative performance.
• Davis Wash (South Carolina) – Delivered heartfelt moments.
• Mandi Jo Genord (Wisconsin) – Rounded out the top competitors with a dynamic showcase.

Takeaways and Looking Ahead

The 2025 Miss America competition not only celebrated beauty and talent but also highlighted the contestants’ commitment to meaningful social change. The event’s success in Orlando has sparked discussions about the possibility of hosting the competition in the vibrant city again next year.

For updates on the next Miss America pageant, stay tuned to Florida National News.

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Heidi Griffin and Pierredens Jeune
Florida National News
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Lillie McCloud, the celebrated vocalist who captured hearts on the hit reality TV show The X Factor, has been mesmerizing audiences worldwide with her extraordinary talent and magnetic stage presence. A true artist at her core, McCloud’s remarkable musical journey continues to inspire and enchant fans across generations.

Lillie McCloud celebrated her 66th birthday on December 7, 2024. The acclaimed singer, who gained national recognition as a contestant on Season 3 of Fox’s The X Factor, was praised by the show’s judges as a “music diva” with a voice often compared to the legendary Whitney Houston.

Music Diva Lillie McCloud. Florida National News Photo

Career Highlights
McCloud, a dancer and R&B sensation, made waves in 1986 with her international hit single, “Don’t You Want My Love.” The song soared to the top ten on charts in the U.S., Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Sweden. Before adopting the stage name Lillie McCloud, she performed and released music under the pseudonym Nicole McCloud.

Her discography boasts several notable albums, including What About Me, Jam Packed, and So What?

Music Diva Lillie McCloud. Florida National News Photo

Personal Life
Born and raised in Rochester, New York, McCloud has lived in Orlando, Florida. Her creativity extends beyond music—she collaborates with merchandise designer Cameron Furniss on cross-brand advertising initiatives.

Music Diva Lillie McCloud. Florida National News Photo

Legacy and Impact
As a contestant on The X Factor, McCloud mesmerized audiences and the judging panel, including Simon Cowell, with her powerhouse vocals and dynamic performances. Her contributions to music and her unmatched vocal range have cemented her legacy as a true diva in the industry.

Music Diva Lillie McCloud. Florida National News Photo

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J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

ORLANDO, Fla. – Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales, now serving as President & CEO of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, issued the following statement regarding the 2025 Florida Puerto Rican Parade’s theme and dedication:

Puerto Rican Heritage Network President Daisy Morales meets parade attendees during Puerto Rican Parade. FNN News Photo

“The annual Florida Puerto Rican Parade and Festival in Orlando continues to spotlight the vibrant history and culture of Puerto Rico while celebrating the invaluable contributions of Puerto Ricans to the mainland, particularly here in Central Florida,” said Daisy Morales, President & CEO of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network.

“This year’s theme, Renewable Energy and the Environment, is especially relevant as our state and nation face the devastating impacts of the climate crisis. As someone who proudly served as an Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor for six years, I commend the Parade for bringing much-needed attention to sustainability and environmental issues within the Hispanic community. This focus is a step in the right direction,” Morales added.

“It is also a profound honor to dedicate this year’s Parade to the City of Aguadilla, affectionately known as the City of Enchantments in Puerto Rico. This recognition celebrates its cultural significance and rich history. We eagerly anticipate the Parade, Festival, and the events connected to this incredible celebration,” Morales concluded.

About the Puerto Rican Heritage Network

The Puerto Rican Heritage Network, established in 2023, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing Puerto Rican heritage. Through educational programs, cultural events, and leadership initiatives, the organization fosters pride, awareness, and community engagement in Florida, across the US and Puerto Rico.