What Does Being a Part of The Jim Allen Group Mean to You?
I came to the Jim Allen Group after Jim attended a Poker tournament that I was hosting. He told me that I was going to come work for him (even though I wasn’t looking for a job and already had one). Funny how things work out and he had Ali call me to set up a meeting with Laurie Evans, who was looking for a new assistant. Laurie and I just clicked and I started soon after that. Jim just has a way of seeing people for their potential and I’m certainly glad that he saw more for me than I saw for myself. After over 4 years, I still love working with this team and have learned so much from the example that Jim sets and the opportunities that Laurie and Neil have given me.
How Long Have You Called North Carolina Home?
22 Years
If You Had Unlimited Time and Resources, How Would You Spend Your Days?
If I had unlimited resources, I know I would travel a lot more. Patrick and I love going new places. There are so many places in the world that I would love to explore. I would also love to own my own Cornhole & entertainment Venue. I would love to have a building where other players could come (no matter what the weather is like) to play, hang out with friends and enjoy games and good times and also be able to host live music and support local musicians. I’d love to be able to help my family out and be more involved in charity work.
What’s Your Favorite Local Restaurant?
Favorite local restaurants because I can’t just pick one – Johnny Bull’s Steakhouse in Louisburg. They have great Prime Rib and their salads are awesome. You just check off what you want on the salad and they prepare it with perfect portions of all the ingredients you choose. Also love The Farmer’s Kitchen in Bunn. It’s just a little tiny country restaurant with daily specials but the food is awesome and the people are even better. These restaurants may not be fancy but they are worth the drive from Raleigh if you just love good food and great people.
How Would You Describe Yourself in One Word, and Why?
Rockstar – Because besides actually being a singer (and therefore a real rockstar), I do everything with a little bit of edge and flair. I’m not scared of being in front of a crowd and I’m pretty good at keeping the crowds engaged in whatever activity I’m doing. I have a flair for the dramatic and enjoy dressing up and keeping people guessing (what color will her hair be this week? lol).
Asheville or Wilmington?
Wilmington. I love the mountains, but the beach is where my soul resides!!! Anything near the water is my happy place. We actually have a place near Wilmington and try to get down there as much as possible.
What Causes/Charities Do You Care About?
I have been involved with several charities and host Charity cornhole tournaments regularly. I have hosted a tournament for the Emily K Center in Durham, American Cancer Society (in honor of the many family and friends that have had or are battling this awful disease), 65 Roses Foundation (in honor of my high school boyfriend who had Cystic Fibrosis), Turner Syndrome Foundation (in honor of my Cousin, Denise and my baby girl, Kendall, who both had this little known disease which eventually took them both from us), Camp Corral (for kids of military families to go to Camp for free), AMVETS (for the amazing service of the American Vets that have served our country and kept us free), and will be hosting a tournament next month for Ukrainian Association of NC. I also love to be involved in any charity events that support pet adoption. Recently attended a charity ball for the Humane Society of Durham.
Who are the People (and Pets) that Keep You Motivated?
I live with my amazing partner, Patrick and our two crazy dogs, Sasha, a Russian Sulimov (The Shedding-est dog ever) and Daisy, the Beagle (our fearless protector from every squirrel within a 10 mile radius). I also love spending time with my sister, Serene and her husband, Salvador and their 3 amazing and beautiful daughters, Lily (12), Natalia (12) and the infamous Luna (4)!
