Gatsby New Year’s Eve Speakeasy Ball

New Year’s Eve is a phenomenal evening, but the Krewe of Gatsby Girls put on a Gatsby New Year’s Eve Speakeasy Ball on December 31 at the Hilton Pensacola Beach, that topped them all. This 1920s fashion ball was the place to be on New Year’s Eve. The lights were set, the stage was lit, and the decorations were on point. Each year, the Krewe of Gatsby selects one community organization to become their partner, and this year was no different. This year’s Speakeasy Ball beneficiary was Honor H.E.R Foundation, and they received a portion of the proceeds from this night’s events. Over 225 people enjoyed the evening’s entertainment, which included the BeeziHead Productions 360 Photobooth, along with, the Unfortunate Sons, who played all night long. Honor H.E.R. Foundation is committed to providing meals, lodging, access to medical care and job placement services for identified women veterans who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless in the Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties. Their vision is to provide shelter and restore hope, honor, and dignity in every female veteran who seeks comfort, support, and assistance through their programs.

What is your hometown and how did you end up in the Pensacola area; how long have you been here?

I was born at Baptist Hospital. I grew up in Gulf Breeze and moved away for about twelve years. After living in Gainesville, Tampa, Washington DC, Birmingham, and Atlanta, I returned home. I’ve lived in both Pensacola and Gulf Breeze for the last twenty years.

What is your profession and what lead you to choose it?

I am an attorney and have practiced Family Law and Criminal Defense for the last twenty years. My dad’s best friend was an attorney and much of my family are attorneys, so my path just took me to the practice of law.

What are some of your favorite things about Pensacola? What makes it unique?

Pensacola has always been a great combination of the beach, Southern charm, and history all mixed together. Events and festivals always provide opportunities to get out around family and friends. I joined the Krewe of Andres de Pez over twenty years ago, which always provides chances to get out for Fiesta and Mardi Gras, as well as chances to give back in the community.

Three words that best describe you. Outgoing, Social, Passionate.

Favorite place for entertainment?

Vinyl and The Saenger are always great for catching a show, plus we have the Handle Bar back. Happy to have all the breweries in town and you can’t beat the beach bars. Hub’s downtown is our own little Cheers. And, even though my Gators are having a bad year, Seville is always a great place to watch games with the Northwest Florida Gator Club.

What is one thing that you do not go a day without?

One thing I don’t go without: Checking on my daughter and my mother to make sure they are having good day.

Finish this statement, I AM PENSACOLA because…

I am Pensacola because I enjoy running into friends everywhere I go in this town.