Mayor Jerry Demings Suspends Campaign Following Cancer Diagnosis
For decades, Jerry Demings has been a familiar face in Central Florida leadership, serving the community through law enforcement and local government. Demings has spent much of his career focused on public service and community growth. Unfortunately, on the fifth day of June, following his final State of the County address, it has been announced that Mayor Jerry Demings is suspending his campaign for State Governor, duetoarecentprostatecancerdiagnosis.
The announcement was met with an outpouring of support from community members, colleagues, and residents who have followed Demings' career over the years. Many expressed appreciation for his contributions to the region and offered words of encouragement as he beginsthisnextchapter.
While stepping away from the governor's race was a difficult decision, Demings emphasized the importance of prioritizing his health and being present for the people closest to him. His message served as a reminder that even public figures face personal challenges that require time, attention,andsupport.
Throughout his career, Demings has helped guide Orange County through periods of significant growth and change, earning recognition as one of the area's most influential leaders. His commitment to service has left a lasting impact on the community, making this announcement especially meaningful to many residents who have watched his leadershipovertheyears.
Throughout his career as mayor, Demings has overseen significant growth across Orange County and has remained one of Central Florida's most recognizable political leaders. His decision to step away from the political race marks a major shift in Florida's 2026 election landscape, where he was considered one of the mostprominentcandidates.
As he focuses on recovery, supporters across Central Florida continue to rally behind him, wishing him strength and a successful treatment journey. For now, the focus shifts away from campaigns and public office and toward health and family.
For a leader whose career has been defined by serving others, the community now has the opportunity to return that support as Jerry Demings takes time to focus on himself andhisrecovery.
Coronation Gala Celebration
Miss Orlando Carnival Queen Celebrates Coronation
On the twelfth night of June, the Miss Orlando Carnival Queen Coronation Gala took place at CAP Village, marking a meaningful celebration for newly crowned queenSarahKrishna.
The event, kept small and intimate, brought together sponsors, close supporters, and community to formally recognize Krishna’s new title as Miss Orlando Carnival Queen. Rather than a larger scale feel, the evening focused on personal acknowledgment and cultural appreciation, highlighting the significance of her role withintheOrlandoCarnivalDowntowncommunity.
Sarah Krishna was presented with a series of gifts during the evening, offered by representatives of the Miss Orlando Carnival Queen organization alongside community partners, including Tree of Life Infusion & Wellness. The gifts were framed as gestures of support and encouragement as she begins her reign representing Orlando’sCaribbeanculturalscene.
Attendees described the atmosphere as warm and personal, with brief remarks and ceremonial moments replacing traditional pageant spectacle. The format allowed for closer interaction between Sarah and those involved in the organization, emphasizing appreciation, empowerment, and culturalpride.
As Miss Orlando Carnival Queen, Sarah Krishna is expected to take part in upcoming Orlando Carnival Downtown events and cultural appearances throughout the year, serving as a representative of Caribbean heritage and community prideinCentralFlorida.
The coronation gala ultimately served as a soft launch to her reign—opening the floor for connection—setting the tone for a year centered on representation, cultural identity, and communityinvolvement.
New Caribbean Supermarket
Ocala's Supermarket Opening
Central Florida's Caribbean community has a new reason to celebrate with the opening of Ocala's Supermarket, a massive new retail destination that is being recognized as North America's newest, largest, and lowest-priced Caribbean supermarket. Located in Orlando, the impressive 24,000-square-foot facility is set to become a hub for Caribbean culture, cuisine, and community.
More than just a grocery store, Ocala's Supermarket offers shoppers a chance to experience the rich diversity of the Caribbean under one roof. Customers can expect a wide selection of authentic products from across the region, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, spices, baked goods, beverages, and specialty items that are often difficult to find in traditional supermarkets. The store aims to provide quality products at affordable prices
The opening reflects the continued growth and influence of the Caribbean community in the region. For many families, access to familiar ingredients means preserving traditions and passing cultural heritage from one generation to the next. From preparing Sunday dinners and holiday feasts to discovering flavors from neighboring islands, Ocala's Supermarket creates a space where food and culture come together. The expansive retail space also provides opportunities for local vendors and Caribbean brands to
District 5 Commissioner Shan Rose and supermarket owners cutting ribbon.
AlphaCore Roofing
Check Your Roof After The Storms
Homeowners in Oviedo and Winter Springs are being encouraged to inspect their roofs after recent storms, and AlphaCore Roofing Inc. is offering free roof inspections to help residents identify potential damage before it becomes a costly problem. The company specializes in detecting hail, wind, and storm-related roof damage and provides professional support throughout the insurance claims process, making it easier for homeowners to determine whether their insurancemaycoverthecostofanewroof.
As a licensed and insured contractor serving Central Florida,AlphaCoreRoofing
emphasizes its commitment to the local community with a promise of honest, reliable, and efficient service. Their advertisement highlights no-pressure inspections, quick results, and expert guidance from starttofinish.
With the slogan “Roofing with Purpose. Building with Heart.” and “Get Protected by the Pack,” the company positions itself as a trusted partner for homeowners seeking peace of mind after severe weather. Residents interested in a complimentary inspection can contact AlphaCore Roofing at 1-888-404-9653 or visit AlphaCoreRoofing.comformoreinformation.
Dr. Karen Green
The Caribbean Voice of Leadership, Resilience & Global Diaspora Advocacy
Dr. Karen Green of Jamaica has spent decades building bridges between the Caribbean and the global community through leadership, humanitarian service, and advocacy. A respected political strategist, faith leader, and community advocate, she has become one of the Caribbeandiaspora'smostinfluentialvoices.
As the first Jamaican-born Vice Chair of the Florida Democratic Party, Dr. Green has helped strengthen Caribbean-American civic engagement while serving in multiple presidential election cycles, including campaigns involving Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Widely known as "The Voice of Florida" and "The Voice of the Caribbean," she has earned recognition for her commitmenttoupliftingCaribbeancommunities.
Her humanitarian work has placed her on the front lines of disaster preparedness and recovery efforts across the Caribbean and beyond. She has led emergency response initiatives, supported hurricane preparedness, and advocated for vulnerable island nations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a key role in efforts to expand vaccine access throughout the Caribbean and also supportedadvocacysurroundingrecognitionforJamaica's National Hero, Marcus Mosiah Garvey.
Through her nonprofit, Liberty and Justice for All, Dr. Green has championed disaster relief, women's empowerment, youth mentorship, education, and community development. She currently serves as Senior Advisor to the Democratic Black Caucus of Florida and has held senior leadership roles in national and regional politicaloutreachinitiatives.
Her work extends into economic development and sustainability. As a member of Jamaica's Private Sector Agriculture Task Force and President of STRATPOL Group International, she helps advance initiatives focused on agricultural resilience, disaster preparedness, food security, and long-term economic growth throughout the Caribbean.
Dr. Green's decades of public service have earned national recognition, including the President Biden Lifetime Achievement Award and acknowledgment in the Congressional Record for her leadership and humanitariancontributions.
Today, she is embarking on a new mission: helping develop a Caribbean media platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women and underserved communities while promoting education, safety, disaster preparedness, cultural preservation, and regional collaboration.
More than a political or media leader, Dr. Karen Green represents resilience, service, and the enduring belief that Caribbean people deserve opportunity, protection, and a powerful voice on the world stage. As her work continues to expand, she remains committed to empowering communities and helping shape the future of Caribbean leadership.
Dr. Green's story also reflects the growing influence of Caribbean leadership on the global stage. Across the region and throughout the diaspora, individuals and organizations are working to strengthen communities through service, advocacy, and collaboration while preserving the rich cultures and traditions that unite Caribbeanpeople.
Asnewchallengesandopportunitiesemerge,thisspiritof resilience and collective action continues to inspire efforts to build a stronger, more connected future for generationstocome.
Orlando Carnival J'ouvert
A Sunrise Celebration for Day 2 of Carnival Weekend
On the twenty-third day of May, J’ouvert kicked off the next day of Orlando Carnival weekend with a massive early morning celebration at Camping World Stadium, drawing hundreds from the community for one of the mostenergeticculturaleventsoftheseason.
Beginning at 8:00 a.m., attendees gathered as music filled the stadium grounds and the surrounding areas quickly transformed into a high-energy festival space. Known for its roots in Carnival tradition, J’ouvert brought together paint, powder, rhythm, and community in a celebration thatencouragedfullparticipationandliftedspirits.
Throughout the morning, crowd goers were covered in brightly colored paint and powder as DJs and live performers kept the energy at a constant peak. The
Food trucks lined the venue, offering a variety of local and cultural cuisine that kept attendees fueled throughout the morning festivities. From traditional Caribbean-inspired dishes to festival favorites, the food options added another layer to the overall experience, blending culture, flavor, and communitygathering.
The sunny weather played a perfect role in the success of the event, with sunny skies and warm temperatures creating ideal conditions for an outdoor morning celebration. amping World Stadium served as a fitting backdrop for the for movement,music,andcrowdengagementwhilemaintaining
Orlando Steelpan Festival
Bringing Smooth Rhythms and Community Energy to Luminary Green Park
On the twenty-third day of May, Luminary Green Park hosted the Orlando Steelpan Festival, transforming the downtown space into a vibrant but laid-back celebration of Caribbean music and culture.
The event featured a strong lineup of steelpan groups, each bringing their own style and sound to the stage. Throughout the afternoon, performers delivered a steady flow of melodic, rhythmic steelpan arrangements that filled the park and created a calm, inviting atmosphere for attendees.
Unlike larger high-energy festival settings, the Orlando Steelpan Festival leaned into a more relaxed experience. Guests spread out across the park, enjoying the music at their own pace while taking in the scenery and community gathering. The event maintained a smooth, easygoing feel that highlighted the musicality and tradition of steelpan performance.
Attendance was strong, with a steady flow of visitors throughout the day. Families, music enthusiasts, and community members gathered to enjoy the performances. Luminary Green Park provided a fitting backdrop for the festival
Among the featured performers were the Ocala Steel Orchestra, Lake Steel Orchestra, Augusta RAA Middle School Steel Orchestra, Spirit of Steelpan Groove, New Generation Branches Steel Orchestra, Lauderhill Steel Ensemble, and the Trinidad & Tobago Fire Services Band. Each group contributed a distinct sound and energy, showcasing the range and versatility of steelpan music
As the afternoon progressed, the combination of live steelpan music, good weather, and community engagement helped the Orlando Steelpan Festival stand out
Photo's by Leslie Gray Photography.
Orlando Carnival Parade & Concert
The Ultimate Carnival Celebration Including Music and Vibrant Costumes
On the twenty-fourth day of May, the final day of Orlando Carnival weekend delivered one of its most anticipated events as the parade and concert brought together all participating band leaders, full costume showcases from Carnival on the Runway, and a massive crowdgatheredunderperfectweatherconditions.
The parade featured a full display of Carnival costumes, with designs previously previewed on the runway now brought to life on the streets. Band members moved through the celebration in vibrant, detailed costumes that captured the creativity and energy of the entire weekend. All band leaders took part in the procession, adding to the sense of unity and celebration across the carnival community.
With clear skies and warm weather setting the tone, the atmosphere was described as electric from start to finish.
Following the parade, the celebration transitioned into live band performances that kept the momentum going. Each group delivered strong, energetic sets that brought the crowd back into full celebration mode, with music, dancing, and continuousengagementthroughouttheevening.
As night fell, the event shifted into its concert finale, widely regarded as the highlight of the entire weekend. The stage featured performances from major Caribbean artists including Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, and Lady Lava, who each brought their signature sound and stage presence to the crowd.
By the end of the night, the parade and concert had solidified themselves as the defining conclusion to Orlando Carnival weekend—uniting costumes, music, and community in a final celebration that carried the energy of the entire festival forward.
Photo's by Deion Waldon
Orlando Carnival Downtown
Reverie
Reverie Raises the Bar
Reverie Day Party turned Festival Park into a spectacular Memorial Day destination, blending culture, music, and style into an unforgettable experience. Beautiful cherry blossom-inspired décor, elegant touches throughout the venue, and a lively atmosphere created the perfect setting for guests to relax, celebrate, and enjoy the holiday with friends and family. From the moment attendees arrived, Reverieofferedanescapeunlikeanyother.
The highlight of the day was an electrifying performance by Caribbean superstar Lyrikal. Commanding the stage with incredible energy and crowd interaction, he delivered a set that had the audience singing and dancing from start to finish. Backed by an all-star lineup of DJs who kept the music flowing all day, the entertainment never missed a beat and kept the celebration going.
Reverie was more than just a party—it was a beautifully produced event that brought people together through great music, exceptional entertainment, and a memorable atmosphere. Visionary Event Group delivered a Memorial Day experience that was elegant, exciting, and filled with moments that attendees won't soon forget, leaving everyone lookingforwardtothenextReveriecelebration.
Orlando International Fashion Week
A Night of Fashion For All
Orlando International Fashion Week once again proved that fashion is far more than clothing—it's a powerful form of art, culture, and self-expression. The organization's signature event, "626 Euphoria," transformed the Winter Park Events Center into a vibrant showcase of creativity, bringing together designers, performers, artists, and community leaders for an unforgettable celebration of diversity and inclusion.
The day featured two spectacular runway experiences, each offering its own unique blend of high fashion and entertainment. The afternoon show, hosted by actress and filmmaker Christina Carmona, highlighted innovative collections from designers including Charisma Upcycle Wear, Betta Novais Designs, Henrry Meza, and others, while live performances from Nova, the Orlando Young Lions, and Anthony Lewis Steel Pan energized the audience. The evening presentation raised the excitement even further with hosts Mimi Mala and Jenny Rosario leading a glamorous showcase featuring renowned designers, celebrity-styled models, and performances that blended fashion with music and culture.
One of the event's defining features was its commitment to inclusivity and cultural representation. A special Puerto Rican Heritage Network showcase honored PuertoRicanculturethroughfashion,music,andartistic expression, while the Local Celebrity Showcase celebrated influential members of the Central Florida community. Designers, performers, and models from a wide range of backgrounds came together to demonstrate that the fashion industry thrives when creativityanddiversityareembraced.
Beyond the glamour of the runway, Orlando International Fashion Week continues to make a meaningful impact through its nonprofit mission. Proceeds from the event help support the Aveda Institute Orlando Scholarship Fund, providing educational opportunities for future cosmetology and barber professionals. By combining fashion with philanthropy, the organization creates opportunities for the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs while strengtheningthelocalcommunity.
From luxurious runway presentations and pop-up shopping experiences to cultural performances and charitable giving, "626 Euphoria" showcased the best of Central Florida's creative spirit. Orlando International Fashion Week continues to establish itself as more than it's a platform where art, culture, and community come together to inspire, uplift, and
