Central Florida News
Stanley Campbell Visits The Villages During Early Voting, Takes a Stand for Freedom
THE VILLAGES, Fla. (FNN) – As early voting ignited across Florida on August 5th, U.S. Senate candidate Stanley Campbell made pivotal stops in Ocala and The Villages, rallying support among the state’s senior population and taking a firm stand on freedom and rights.
Campbell emphasized the importance of this election, stating, “Freedom is on the line. I defended it in the Navy, and now I’m fighting for it at home. We often take our freedoms for granted, but they are under attack. From a woman’s right to make choices about her own body, to the LGBTQ community’s right to love whomever they choose, to ensuring Social Security remains intact for our seniors—freedom is what’s at stake.”
His visit to these key areas was not just about campaigning but demonstrating solidarity with the senior community. “I want to stand with people like Democrat John Stockton here,” Campbell said, highlighting the financial challenges faced by many seniors in Florida.
Campbell pledged, “I will fight Rick Scott for your Social Security and Medicare benefits.” His commitment is backed by his professional experience; his company actively combats Medicare fraud, recovering approximately $120 million in taxpayer dollars daily.
“Now,” Campbell declared, “I’m ready to take that fight to the Senate for Floridians.” His vow to protect Social Security and Medicare struck a chord with seniors facing economic insecurity.
In Ocala and The Villages, Campbell’s dedication to securing their future was met with hope and resolve. He listened to their concerns, shared his vision, and committed to being their advocate in the Senate.
The road ahead is challenging, but Campbell is prepared. He urged Floridians to vote on or before August 20th, paving the way for his fight against Rick Scott in the November 5th election.
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Central Florida News
“Olympic Bronze Medalist Omari Jones Leads 41st MLK Holiday Parade as Grand Marshal”
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Downtown Orlando came alive with vibrant energy as the 41st Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade took place on Saturday, January 18, 2025. The parade began at the Downtown Orlando Courthouse and made its way through the city streets, concluding at the picturesque Lake Eola Park.
This year’s parade theme, “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365,” served as a rallying cry for unity and action. The theme inspired participants and spectators alike to honor Dr. King’s mission by promoting love, nonviolence, and equality throughout their daily lives.
Parade Participants marched down Orange Avenue for the 41st MLK Holiday Parade Downtown Orlando, Saturday, January 18, 2025. Photo by Florida National News / J Willie David, III
Leading this year’s parade as Grand Marshal was Orlando native Omari Jones, a Bronze Medal-winning boxer. Jones is one of eight members of Team USA Boxing preparing to secure a spot in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His presence underscored the importance of perseverance and the power of achieving dreams against all odds.
US Congressman Darren Soto celebrates 41st MLK Holiday Parade Downtown Orlando, Saturday, January 18, 2025. Photo by Florida National News / J Willie David, III
The parade featured a dazzling display of colorful floats, marching bands, and community groups celebrating Dr. King’s legacy. Families and attendees of all ages lined the streets to cheer, wave, and take in the festive atmosphere. The event was a true testament to the enduring impact of Dr. King’s message of freedom, justice, and equality.
Senator Carols Smith and Representative Anna V. Eskamani marched down Orange Avenue for the 41st MLK Holiday Parade Downtown Orlando, Saturday, January 18, 2025. Photo by Florida National News / J Willie David, III
Attendees were encouraged to go beyond celebration and take intentional steps to uphold Dr. King’s dream in their own lives. The event organizers emphasized the importance of supporting the parade’s mission through sponsorships, vendor opportunities, or active participation in future parades.
As the 41st Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade concluded, the sense of inspiration and unity lingered in the air, reminding everyone of the ongoing work to build a just and equitable society.
Central Florida News
Former Haitian Ambassador Dr. Rudolph Moise Reflects on Haiti Earthquake Anniversary and Rescue Efforts
MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) – The 15th anniversary of the devastating earthquake in Haiti was commemorated in a solemn ceremony at the statue of Toussaint Louverture at the corner of North Miami Avenue and 62nd Street. The event, organized by Miami-Dade County Commissioner Marlene Bastien and the Family Action Network Movement (FANM), honored the lives lost and the heroic efforts of those who provided aid during Haiti’s darkest hours.
Among the distinguished attendees was Dr. Rudolph Moise, former Haitian Ambassador at Large. He joined several South Florida elected officials, community leaders, and residents who gathered to pay their respects and share reflections on the tragedy that claimed the lives of over 250,000 people on January 12, 2010.
Dr. Moise’s First-Hand Role in Rescue Efforts
Dr. Moise highlighted his personal involvement as part of the Miami-Dade Urban Search and Rescue Team dispatched to Haiti immediately after the earthquake. “In 10 days, we pulled 12 people out of the rubble, including two children,” he shared during the ceremony, emphasizing the profound impact of those life-saving efforts.
The emotional gathering provided an opportunity for the community to reflect on the resilience of the Haitian people and the unity demonstrated in the face of such overwhelming loss. Commissioner Marlene Bastien remarked, “This ceremony is a reminder of the strength and solidarity that emerged in the aftermath of unimaginable devastation. We must continue to honor those we lost and support Haiti’s recovery.”
Impact and Legacy
The earthquake, which struck near Port-au-Prince, destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, leaving millions displaced. The heroic efforts of rescue teams, including Dr. Moise and his colleagues, provided hope amid the chaos. Their actions remain a testament to the power of humanity and international cooperation.
Today’s ceremony also served as a call to action for continued support for Haiti’s rebuilding efforts and advocacy for disaster preparedness. Community members shared heartfelt comments, recalling the lives lost and the need to maintain focus on recovery and resilience.
Event Highlights
- The event was attended by several elected officials from across South Florida, including key community leaders and activists.
- Speeches were delivered at the statue of Toussaint Louverture, a symbol of Haitian independence and resilience.
- Personal reflections from attendees highlighted the ongoing emotional and cultural significance of the earthquake.
As Haiti continues its journey toward recovery, events like this remind us of the enduring strength and determination of its people and the critical importance of international solidarity.
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