Peter SchorschEmergent legislative pro Erin Daly Ballas is the featured Tallahassee player in today’s chapter of the 4th Floor Files. Currently, she serves as an associate on Jack and Kenya Cory’s Public Affairs Consultants team, where she began in 2008 as a legislative intern.
Erin has grown into the firm’s go-to person for grassroots efforts, including developing an individualized One Hour Legislative Grassroots program for each client.
During the 2015 legislative Session, Erin will advocate for a range of interests, including both the Florida and National Greyhound Associations, the city of Jacksonville Beach, Outward Bound Discovery, the Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs, and American Elder Care.
Here’s the file on Erin Daly Ballas:
Significant other? Children? Grand kids?
My husband, Capt. James Ballas U.S.A.F.
In 25 words or less, explain what you do.
I am the Spark-Notes version of my clients issues to Legislators and the tour guide to the legislative process to my clients.
Without using the words Democrat, Independent or Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion.
I am an American. I love this country and am thankful for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure our freedom.
If you have one, what is your motto?
Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys.
During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client?
I am working with Keep Florida Beautiful, an organization funded through the Solid Waste Trust Fund. During the “tough years,” Keep Florida Beautiful lost funding, and last year we were able to get the funding back.
Three favorite charities.
The Boys & Girls Club, Wounded Warrior Project, Make a Wish
Any last-day-of-Session traditions?
I bring a treat to my “Fourth Floor Family.” Last year, it was doughnuts from Donut Kingdom.
What are you most looking forward to during the 2015 Legislative Session?
Seeing all my friends! I also love Lilly Pulitzer Day in the Capital!
If you could have another lobbyist’s client list, it would be…
I love my clients. I have worked with most of them since I was a runner!
Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud?
Being picked for “30 under 30”!
Lobbyists are often accused of wearing Gucci loafers; do you own a pair of Gucci loafers? If not, why not?
I do not: They don’t do much for my legs and don’t match my colorful wardrobe.
Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corps reporter and why?
Kat McGrory, her articles are well-researched and she always gets the inside scoop.
Other than SaintPetersBlog.com, your reading list includes…
My Feedly reader is full of work and nonwork blogs.
What swear word do you use most often?
Damn it.
What is your most treasured possession?
My pillow and my wedding rings.
The best hotel in Florida is …
Closed now, I loved the Ritz Carlton Palm Beach.
You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear?
Melanie Brown, Jon Yapo, Kim Siomkos, and special guest Jack Latvala.
Favorite movie.
Pitch Perfect … sorry I’m not sorry.
When you pig out, what do you eat?
This is my second year doing the Whole30 diet during session, but once Session is over, I am going straight to Sweet Grass Dairy for some cheese and champagne.
If you could have dinner with a historical figure no longer living, who would it be?
Thomas Jefferson or Benjamin Franklin on the “Honey Fitz” (The Presidential Yacht).
