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One of the greatest gifts my work has given me has been the people I've met along the way. Some have become colleagues, some have become dear friends, and a very special few have become part of the fabric of my life. Diana Templeton was one of those people.

For years, we spoke almost every week. Our conversations rarely centered on Diana herself. She was much more interested in talking about someone else's new show, someone's latest accomplishment, or an artist she felt deserved a little more recognition. She genuinely celebrated the successes of others, and she did it without expecting anything in return.

I've often thought about how easy it is to applaud the people on stage while overlooking those who quietly make so much of what we do possible. Diana was one of those people. She encouraged artists when they doubted themselves, showed up for performances simply because she believed in supporting live entertainment, and had a remarkable way of making everyone she met feel valued. You always came away from a conversation with Diana feeling just a little better than when it began.

When I created Richard Skipper Celebrates! Life Lessons from Legends, I realized that the show isn't just about well-known names. It's about the people who shape our lives through their kindness, generosity, wisdom, and encouragement. By that measure, Diana was every bit a legend.

That's why gathering on August 8 feels so important to me. It won't be a memorial. It will be a celebration in the truest sense of the word, filled with stories, music, laughter, and memories shared by the people whose lives she touched. I can't think of a more fitting tribute because that's exactly how Diana lived—bringing people together and making each of us feel like we belonged.

I hope you'll join us. Whether you knew Diana personally or simply believe that the people who spend their lives lifting others deserve to be celebrated, I think you'll leave understanding why she will always hold such a special place in my heart.

Who/What Are YOU Celebrating Today?