Galentine’s Day Gala

Big events start with big dreams. In 2022, LaShana Chaisson Douville of The Event Room in Fort Walton Beach teamed up with her friend Felicia Scaif to host an event for community leaders that work behind the scenes. With the success of year one behind them, this dynamic duo set in motion plans for an even bigger second year. Held at The Event Room on February 17, this sold-out crowd enjoyed music and dancing, along with a catered meal by Southern Yankee Queen.

While Real Woman Radio covered the event and Kelsey Coffey (WEAR-TV, Channel 3 News) prepared to emcee, LaShana and Felica opened the formal program. “This event recognizes those who aren’t normally in the spotlight,” said LaShana. Since they are the ones normally behind the scenes, the nominees and winners were chosen by the community, without any influence or persuasion from the hosts. As the program progressed, Kelsey announced the winners. Trailblazer Awards were given to community leaders under 40 (Ta’ki Brown, Andre II, and Roshana Lynn), while the Woman of Influence Award included nominees over 40 with the community’s choice being Natoya Lane-Pitts

“Our hope is to continue and expand this event by collaborating with businesses and members of the community,” said Lashana. Events such as the Galentine’s Day Gala not only recognize people making a difference, but they also encourage others as well.