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2025 Miss America Crowned: Alabama’s Abbie Stockard Shines in Orlando Competition

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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

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Florida National News Podcast en Español — Tuesdays at 6:30 PM EST!

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Florida National News Podcast en Español — Tuesdays at 6:30 PM EST!

Join Co-Hosts Monica Hoyos and Javier Garcia, along with Special Guest Host Maria del Carmen Rodriguez and the production team, for a show filled with fun, excitement, and powerful conversations that inform, inspire, and empower Hispanic and Latino communities in Florida and beyond.

Tune in weekly on FNN News en Español, Florida National News , FNN News TV Facebook Channels and social media platforms for stories that celebrate Latino voices, leadership, and culture.

Photo by J Willie David, III | Florida National News

 

SPANISH Florida National News Podcast en Español
FNN News Podcast en Español — Martes a las 6:30 PM EST

Únete a las Coanfitrionas Monica Hoyos y Javier Garcia, junto a la Anfitriona Invitada Especial Maria del Carmen Rodriguez y el equipo de producción, en un programa lleno de diversión, emoción y conversaciones poderosas que informan, inspiran y empoderan a las comunidades hispanas y latinas en Florida y más allá.

Sintoniza cada semana en los canales de FNN News en Español, Florida National News y FNN News TV en Facebook y en las plataformas de redes sociales para disfrutar de historias que celebran las voces, el liderazgo y la cultura latina.

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Monica Hoyos and Javier Garica | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

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OIFW Fall 2025 Brings Fashion, Art, and Entertainment to Downtown Orlando with Exclusive Rooftop and Runway Events

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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN)Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) has officially announced its Fall 2025 event lineup, promising an extraordinary week of fashion, art, and entertainment across Downtown Orlando. Known for merging creativity, culture, and community, OIFW will showcase local and international designers, celebrity hosts, and captivating live performances at some of Orlando’s most iconic venues.

Sunday, November 9, 2025 – Opening Night at CityArts

Location: CityArts, Downtown Orlando
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Sponsor: Downtown Arts District

Event Host:

  • Chad Pitt – Radio Personality, “Chad and Leslye in the Morning Show,” Magic 107.7

Fashion Designers:

  • Tenique Designs

  • Ellie Paisley Art

  • Avor + Pazniak

Entertainment:

  • K.She’ – Singer/Songwriter

  • London Simone – Contortionist

OIFW kicks off opening night at CityArts, bringing together the best of Orlando’s visual and fashion arts scene in a creative fusion of color, texture, and performance.

Saturday, November 15, 2025 – Rooftop Fashion Experience

Location: Altira Rooftop Pool + Lounge, Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Autograph Collection
Time: 1:00 p.m.

Event Host:

  • Christina Carmona – Award-Winning Actress and Filmmaker

Fashion Designers:

  • Betta Novais Designs

  • Sim Allure

Event Highlights:
Guests will enjoy a luxurious rooftop day party and fashion showcase, complete with live music, curated runway presentations, and the city’s trendsetters mingling under Orlando’s skyline. Drinks and food will be available for purchase.

Sunday, November 16, 2025 – Family and Finale Fashion Events

Location: Eola View, Downtown Orlando
Times: 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

3:00 PM Event Host:

  • Mimi Mala – Radio Personality, Model, and Host

Fashion Designers:

  • My Little Matilda

  • Dillard’s Children

  • Davenport Fashion Lab

  • Dillard’s Youth

Celebrity Style Showcase Models:

  • Pao Pati | Mayra Uribe | Azela Santana | Julia Goolia | Kairy Lopez

Entertainment:

  • Alyssa Herrera – Singer/Songwriter

  • Moova Dance – Dance Studio Performance

6:00 PM Event Host:

  • Sierra Rainge – Media Powerhouse and Brand Strategist

Fashion Designers:

  • Roszuar | Culture Trees | Artelio | Constella Designs | Dillard’s | Jezra | BAmoryProductions | Sim Allure

Celebrity Style Showcase Models:

  • Bethany Worley | Mimi Mala | Azela Santana | Daniela Droz | Anntwan Fredrick

Entertainment:

  • Zaycuatro – Singer/Songwriter

  • Scott Barnhill – Singer/Songwriter

These closing events at Eola View highlight both family-oriented fashion and Orlando’s rising stars in music, art, and design, offering a grand finale to an unforgettable fashion week.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

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Mayors Buddy Dyer and Jerry Demings Join Tribute to James H. Pugh’s Legacy at Dr. Phillips Center

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Dr. Phillips Center Honors Founding Chairman James H. Pugh with Bronze Sculpture. Mayors Buddy Dyer and Jerry Demings Join Ceremony Celebrating His Life and Legacy, October 9, 2025, Orlando, Florida, USA (Florida National News). Photo: Despina McLaughlin / Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts unveiled a stunning new bronze relief sculpture honoring Chairman Emeritus James H. Pugh, Jr., the visionary leader whose commitment and leadership helped turn the dream of a world-class performing arts center into reality. The piece, created by world-renowned sculptor Paul Day, was revealed during a heartfelt ceremony attended by community leaders, including Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, both of whom shared remarks celebrating Pugh’s remarkable contributions.

A Visionary Who Shaped Orlando’s Cultural Landscape

From 2003 to 2022, James H. Pugh, Jr. served nearly two decades as chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center, guiding the project from concept to completion. His leadership, expertise, and steadfast vision were instrumental in creating one of Orlando’s most iconic cultural institutions.

Alongside his wife, Alexis Pugh, he became the first donor to the project, helping establish the 294-seat Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, a beloved venue that has hosted thousands of regional artists and performances. Under his direction, the Center also opened the 2,700-seat Walt Disney Theater and the acoustically acclaimed Steinmetz Hall, which Architectural Digest named one of the 11 most beautiful theaters in the world.

A Masterpiece by Renowned Artist Paul Day

Commissioned by longtime friend and arts center donor Neal Dempsey, the bronze relief sculpture was crafted by internationally recognized artist Paul Day, whose works include The Meeting Place at St. Pancras Station in London and A Beautiful Day for a Neighbor at Rollins College.

This new artwork captures the essence of Pugh’s leadership, perseverance, and dedication to the arts, symbolizing the collective effort that brought the Dr. Phillips Center to life. “Jim has been instrumental in bringing this dream and our promise of Arts for Every Life to the region,” said Kathy Ramsberger, President & CEO of the Dr. Phillips Center. “His vision and generosity shaped every step of our journey. This sculpture ensures he will always remain part of our story.”

A Lasting Legacy for Future Generations

During the unveiling, Ed Timberlake, Chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of Pugh’s contributions: “Today, we celebrated three powerful forces—transformative vision, unwavering perseverance, and the magic that happens when a community rallies behind a dream. Jim proved that with enough determination and heart, you can turn an ambitious dream into a living, breathing cultural cornerstone.”

Ticketed guests can now view the sculpture on the first tier of the Della Phillips Lobby. The installation was made possible through generous support from Jan & Neal Dempsey, with additional contributions from Valeria & Jim Shapiro and Bill Forness.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

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