Entertainment
Mayors Buddy Dyer and Jerry Demings Join Tribute to James H. Pugh’s Legacy at Dr. Phillips Center
Published
1 year agoon
By
Willie DavidORLANDO, 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.
____________________________________________________________________________________
J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
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Entertainment
Florida Strawberry Festival Announces 2027 Lineup Featuring Becky G, Shaboozey, 38 Special and more
Published
8 minutes agoon
November 13, 2026
The March 4–14 festival in Plant City will feature country, rock, pop and faith-based performers, with advance admission and concert tickets available beginning Dec. 10.
PLANT CITY, Fla. (FNN) — Becky G, Shaboozey, 38 Special, Styx and Train are among the performers announced for the 2027 Florida Strawberry Festival, which runs March 4–14 in Plant City.
The Wish Farms Soundstage lineup brings together established favorites and emerging performers across country, rock, pop, R&B and faith-based music. Other scheduled acts include The Oak Ridge Boys, Tanya Tucker, Travis Tritt, Charlie Wilson and Jamey Johnson.
“A Timeless Tradition”
The festival’s 2027 theme, “A Timeless Tradition,” celebrates its connection to generations of families and visitors.
Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson said the entertainment schedule reflects that connection while offering a variety of musical styles.
“From longtime favorites to some of today’s most exciting artists, there is something for everyone to enjoy,” Robinson said in the announcement.
Country fans can catch Lorrie Morgan, Max McNown and Hudson Westbrook with McCoy Moore. The Roots & Boots show will feature Sammy Kershaw, Collin Raye and Aaron Tippin.
Rock performances include Styx, 38 Special and Grand Funk Railroad. Micky Dolenz will present “60 Years of The Monkees,” while Josiah Queen and
Maverick City are also scheduled.
Complete announced headline concert schedule
All dates are in 2027, with times local to Plant City.
| Date | Time | Performer |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, March 4 | 3:30 p.m. | The Oak Ridge Boys |
| Thursday, March 4 | 7:30 p.m. | Styx |
| Friday, March 5 | 3:30 p.m. | Tommy James & The Shondells |
| Friday, March 5 | 7:30 p.m. | Josiah Queen |
| Saturday, March 6 | 3:30 p.m. | Shaboozey |
| Saturday, March 6 | 7:30 p.m. | Max McNown |
| Sunday, March 7 | 6:30 p.m. | Hudson Westbrook with McCoy Moore |
| Monday, March 8 | 3:30 p.m. | Tanya Tucker |
| Monday, March 8 | 7:30 p.m. | Maverick City |
| Tuesday, March 9 | 3:30 p.m. | Roots & Boots featuring Sammy Kershaw, Collin Raye and Aaron Tippin |
| Tuesday, March 9 | 7:30 p.m. | Travis Tritt |
| Wednesday, March 10 | 3:30 p.m. | Micky Dolenz: 60 Years of The Monkees |
| Wednesday, March 10 | 7:30 p.m. | 38 Special |
| Thursday, March 11 | 3:30 p.m. | Grand Funk Railroad |
| Thursday, March 11 | 7:30 p.m. | Charlie Wilson |
| Friday, March 12 | 3:30 p.m. | Lorrie Morgan |
| Friday, March 12 | 7:30 p.m. | Becky G |
| Saturday, March 13 | 7:30 p.m. | Jamey Johnson |
| Sunday, March 14 | 7:30 p.m. | Train |
Schedule provided in the festival announcement supplied to FNN.
Tickets go on sale Dec. 10
Advance tickets for festival gate admission and headline concerts go on sale Thursday, Dec. 10, 2026, at 8 a.m. Eastern time.
Tickets will be available through:
- In person: Amscot Main Ticket Office, 2209 W. Oak Ave., Plant City.
- Online: flstrawberryfestival.com.
- Mobile: The Florida Strawberry Festival app.
- Phone: 813-754-1996.
Concert tickets do not include festival gate admission. Guests must also purchase admission to enter the festival. The festival’s official entertainment page confirms the Dec. 10 concert-ticket launch. Florida Strawberry Festival
What’s next?
Fans can review the concert schedule and plan their purchases ahead of the ticket launch. Visit the festival’s official website for current event information and ticket availability.
Stay connected to Florida National News for music, concert and entertainment coverage across Florida.
Entertainment
“4000 Days,” “Frampton” Set for Naples International Film Festival Oct. 24–25
Published
3 weeks agoon
October 22, 2026NAPLES, Fla. (FNN) — Two documentaries exploring families’ fight against college hazing and the career of musician Peter Frampton will screen at the Naples International Film Festival Oct. 24–25, according to an announcement from 10 Lives Studios.
Both films will be shown at Pavilion Naples, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Road.
“4000 Days”: Families Turn Grief Into Advocacy
Directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Daniel E. Catullo III and executive produced by Paris Hilton, “4000 Days” follows three families whose sons died in fraternity hazing incidents.
Gary and Julie DeVercelly, Linda and Eric Oakes, and TJ and Kim Burch joined forces to challenge hazing practices, seek accountability and push for legislative reform. The title represents the approximately 4,000 days of their struggle to turn personal loss into change, according to the filmmakers.
The 111-minute documentary premiered at Tribeca and won the Grand Jury Award at the Jersey Shore Film Festival, according to the announcement.
Catullo, Julie and Gary DeVercelly, and Eric Oakes are scheduled to participate in question-and-answer sessions following the Naples screenings.
Screenings:
- Saturday, Oct. 24: 4 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 25: 11 a.m.
“Frampton”: A Career of Setbacks and Comebacks
Directed by Frampton’s longtime bandleader, Rob Arthur, and produced by Catullo, “Frampton” traces the guitarist’s rise through the Herd and Humble Pie, his breakthrough as a solo artist and his continued performances while facing a degenerative condition.
Marking the 50th anniversary of “Frampton Comes Alive!”, the documentary combines archival footage, interviews and recent performances to examine the musician’s career and resilience.
The 102-minute film features appearances by musicians and entertainers including Ringo Starr, Sheryl Crow, Tom Morello, Alice Cooper and Nancy Wilson.
After premiering at Tribeca, the documentary won the Audience Award for Music on Screen at the Calgary International Film Festival, according to the announcement.
Screenings:
- Saturday, Oct. 24: 7:05 p.m.
Entertainment
Kym Whitley, Yvette Nicole Brown to Headline First Ladies Health Initiative Brain Health Luncheon
Published
2 months agoon
September 15, 2026The Sept. 19 luncheon in Marina del Rey will spotlight Alzheimer’s, dementia, caregiving and brain health as the First Ladies Health Initiative celebrates new grant support for programs empowering girls.
LOS ANGELES, Calif. (FNN) — Emmy-nominated actresses Kym Whitley and Yvette Nicole Brown will headline a First Ladies Health Initiative luncheon focused on Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, caregiving and brain health on Saturday, Sept. 19, in Marina del Rey.
The First Ladies Health Initiative, or FLHI, will host its leaders summit luncheon, “Mindful of the Memories: A Path to Better Brain Health,” beginning at 11 a.m. at The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey.
Whitley, whose credits include Act Your Age and Raising Whitley, and Brown, known for Community, Act Your Age and The Mayor, will participate in a fireside conversation moderated by Dr. Shalonda “Sunshine” Crawford, co-pastor of Experience Christian Ministries.
The discussion will address the experiences of families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the demands placed on caregivers and the challenges of balancing caregiving with careers and other responsibilities.
Personal Experiences Bring Caregiving Into Focus
FLHI Co-Executive Director Marquisé Alston-Allison said Whitley and Brown were selected in part because both have personal experience caring for their fathers.
“Alzheimer’s disease has a devastating impact on the African American community, where individuals are approximately twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia,” Alston-Allison said in the organization’s announcement.
The luncheon takes place two days before World Alzheimer’s Day on Sept. 21.
Brain Health and Prevention Take Center Stage
FLHI is also partnering with the INSPIRE-Faith program at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, led by neurologists Drs. Dean and Ayesha Sherzai.
The program emphasizes lifestyle factors associated with brain and overall health, including nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management and social connections.
The initiative brings prevention-focused health education into faith and community settings while addressing conditions such as dementia, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and stroke.
Luncheon to Feature Music and Special Honors
Radio personality Aundrae Russell of 102.3 KJLH-FM will serve as emcee, with a musical performance by recording artist David Daughtry.
FLHI will also pay tribute to its founding president, Tracey Alston, who died last year.
Dr. Betty Ruth Price, former first lady, co-founder and matriarch of Crenshaw Christian Center, will also be honored during the event.
FLHI Among Organizations Receiving Girls Opportunity Alliance Support
The event comes as FLHI celebrates its selection for support through the Obama Foundation’s Girls Opportunity Alliance.
According to the announcement, a total of $500,000 will be distributed among 10 organizations working to empower girls, with FLHI among the selected recipients.
FLHI is currently led by second-generation co-executive directors Marquisé Alston-Allison and Taylor Alston-Cleveland, alongside co-founder and National Chair Jamell Meeks of Salem Baptist Church in Chicago and Los Angeles Chair Crawford.
The organization also acknowledged support from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Healthy Mind Initiatives, Black Girl Vitamins and The Ritz-Carlton.
For additional information, visit First Ladies Health Initiative.
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