NORTH CAROLINA (FNN) – Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer and pianist known for her intimate vocal style and timeless hits such as “Killing Me Softly with His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” died Monday at the age of 88, her publicist confirmed.

Flack’s career took off in the early 1970s, and she became one of the era’s most influential recording artists. Though she rose to fame in her early 30s, it was Clint Eastwood’s 1971 film “Play Misty for Me” that propelled her into the spotlight. Eastwood featured “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” during a memorable and intimate love scene between him and actress Donna Mills, turning the song into a chart-topping hit.

Her soulful and soothing voice, combined with her skills as a pianist, earned Flack widespread acclaim. She went on to win numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards, and left an indelible mark on the music industry. “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” released in 1973, became another signature track, winning the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and solidifying her status as a music legend.

Flack’s influence extended far beyond the 1970s. Her music continued to resonate with audiences, and her legacy lived on through generations of artists who drew inspiration from her style and storytelling through song.

Details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced.

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J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNational News.com

DAYTONA, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz fired back at Reacher star Alan Ritchson on Thursday after Ritchson referred to him as “that motherf—-r” in a recent GQ interview.

Ritchson, promoting the new season of his Amazon Prime show, described Gaetz as an “adversary” from their childhood. However, Gaetz took to X (formerly Twitter) to offer a different perspective.

“Hollywood apparently changes people!” Gaetz wrote. “We were not ‘adversaries’ as I won debate championships, and Alan did more acting stuff. As I recall, his older brother Eric won more often than Alan did.”

Gaetz also painted a friendlier picture of their past, mentioning Ritchson’s mother, Vicke, who worked as a computer lab monitor. “She loved me,” he said.

The former congressman even shared a personal anecdote: “At her invitation, I went to his dad’s retirement party from the Air Force. It was at a karaoke bar called ‘Lewbos’ in Niceville, where his dad sang ‘Sitting on the Dock of the Bay.’”

The heated exchange between Gaetz and Ritchson adds an unexpected twist to the actor’s press tour, highlighting the stark contrast in their recollections of the past.

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