DeDe McGuire, host of the nationally syndicated DeDe in the Morning, was recently honored with an official City of Jacksonville Proclamation during the 27th Annual Ritz Theatre & Museum Community Appreciation Day celebration. DeDe in the Morning can be heard locally on Cox Media Group Jacksonville’s HOT 106.5 and Power 106.1.
Presented at the historic Ritz Theatre & Museum in Jacksonville’s LaVilla district, the annual celebration commemorated 27 years since the reopening of the Ritz Theatre & Museum and brought together families, community leaders, local businesses, and residents from across Northeast Florida for a day dedicated to culture, entertainment, and community appreciation.
The event featured a full day of free family fun, including live entertainment, food and beverages, local vendors, face painting, community resources, and activities for all ages. As one of Jacksonville’s signature community events, Community Appreciation Day continues to highlight the Ritz Theatre & Museum’s commitment to preserving African American history, arts, and culture while bringing the community together.
A major highlight of the celebration was the DeDe’s Duval Day Party, hosted by DeDe McGuire and presented in partnership with Cox Media Group Jacksonville’s HOT 106.5 and Power 106.1. The event energized attendees with great music, dancing, audience engagement, and a celebration of Jacksonville’s vibrant spirit.
The day culminated with Jacksonville’s Councilman, Rahman Johnson, from Mayor Donna Deegan’s office, presenting McGuire with a City of Jacksonville Proclamation in recognition of her contributions to broadcasting, community service, and her positive impact on listeners both locally and nationwide. The honor reflects McGuire’s dedication to uplifting communities through entertainment, advocacy, and meaningful engagement.
According to DeDe, “Being a part of the Ritz Theater and Museum’s 27th Annual Community Day was pure magic! The building and museum hold so much history and to celebrate it with the community was a highlight for me. Big thank you to our Power 106.1 and Hot 106.5 listeners and the city of. Jacksonville for the honor and recognition. It was a moment I’ll never forget.”
Brian McGhee, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group Jacksonville praised the recognition and the impact of the event. “DeDe represents exactly what we believe local radio should be—connected, committed and invested in the community we serve. She doesn’t just talk about Jacksonville; she shows up for Jacksonville. We’re incredibly proud of DeDe and thrilled to see the city recognize the positive impact she continues to make.”
Elroy Smith, Director of Branding and Programming for Hot 106.5 & Power 106.1 Jacksonville highlighted the significance of honoring talent that continues to make a difference in the communities served by the stations. “Connecting with the community is paramount for CMG-Jacksonville. In addition, hosting this special day at an iconic venue made this day special for us and our honoree, DeDe McGuire, who has evolved into a treasure in the radio industry. To see DeDe’s reaction when receiving this honor was priceless. She was surprised and humbled.”
The recognition served as a fitting conclusion to a celebration that showcased the power of community partnerships and the enduring legacy of the Ritz Theatre & Museum. Attendees joined in applauding McGuire’s achievement while celebrating an institution that has remained a cornerstone of Jacksonville’s cultural landscape for nearly three decades since its reopening. (Pictured above from Left: Market Manager-CMG-Brian McGhee, City Councilman, Raham Johnson, DeDe, & Program Director of HOT 106-5 & Power 106-1, Jacksonville, Elroy Smith.
You must be logged in to post a comment.