‘New Beginnings’ chosen as theme for Puerto Rican parade, festival

ORLANDO, FLORIDA — The Florida Puerto Rican Parade and Festival is more than one month away, and organizers announced Tuesday that this year's theme is "New Beginnings."

The group held a news conference Tuesday with Paul Curran, market vice president of Cox Media Group Orlando, WFTV Channel 9's parent company.

The announcement marked six months since Hurricane Maria devastated the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico.

The parade and festival was held in downtown Orlando last April. There were 2,000 marchers, eight floats and three marching bands.

Organizers said they expect at least double the number of people to march in this year's parade.

Since then, Hurricane Maria slammed the island and more than 200,000 people have moved to Central Florida.

"I know some of them have already moved (away), but the majority (are still) here," said Ana Cruz, of the Orlando Hispanic Office for Local Assistance. "I'm hoping they show up."

Organizers said the theme refers to the victims starting their lives over after losing so much in the storm.

For some, the festival symbolizes the island's rebuilding.

"We want people to know how important it is for us as Puerto Ricans to get together and support Puerto Rico," said Ralph Morales, the festival's chairman.

Before the parade, a cultural pageant and a gala awards dinner will be held, during which five high school and college students will receive $2,000 scholarships.

The parade is scheduled for April 28. Watch it live on WFTV Channel 9 and wftv.com.