Q: What do you do at the Chamber and how long have you worked there?

A: I began working for the Greater Gainesville Chamber in June of 2000 and have been employed there for 21 years. I am currently working as an Information Specialist, answering calls and providing guidance and information to those looking to visit, relocate or hold an event.

 

Q: Where are you originally from?

A: I was born and raised in Trenton, Florida, until my family and I moved to Gainesville in 1960, where I have lived for over 60 years.

 

Q: What is your favorite Chamber event?

A: My favorite events are those that allow me to put a face to the people I speak with over the phone and meet the members of the chamber. An event that I used to enjoy, which we no longer hold, was our business after-hours. My favorite event that we still hold is our chamber annual meeting.

 

Q: What is the best trip that you have taken?

A: The best trip that I have been on was a four-day trip to New York to celebrate New Years Eve and visit my family. I went by myself on the trip, which made figuring out the airport more nerve-wracking. The most noteworthy part of the trip was when I saw snow for the first time! It had fallen over night, so I saw it through the window the next morning, and I ran outside to make a snow angel.

 

Q: What was one of the best days of your life?

A: The best day of my life was when I got my driver’s license and was able to go wherever I wanted to on my own. I was 16 years old and got to drive the 1954 Ford that my family shared. Since my hometown did not have a football team, I remember driving up to Gainesville with two of my friends to watch the homecoming football game at Lincoln High School.

 

Q: Who is your favorite cartoon character?

A: Some of the cartoons I enjoyed watching during my childhood are Tom & Jerry, Little Lulu, Mighty Mouse, Woody Woodpecker and Felix the Cat.

 

Q: What is your favorite musician or song?

A: I don’t have a favorite musician or song, but I enjoy the oldies. I like any song that has meaning behind it, such as soul music.

 

Q: What is your favorite dessert?

A: I really enjoy ice cream. My favorite flavor of ice cream is the classic vanilla, but I also like anything that has strawberries and blueberries in it.

 

Q: What’s a subject you could give a lecture on without any preparation?

A: Nothing! I hate getting in front of a crowd and speaking in front of people. It is hard when everyone is watching, and you have to stay serious. I was the valedictorian at my high school and had to give a speech in front of my entire class and their friends and families, and while I would love being in front of a crowd for something like a school play, that speech was so much more intimidating.

 

Q: If you could describe the chamber in one word, what would it be?

A: Members. Without the members, there would be no chamber. They support us and we help them in so many ways.