On Friday, May 2nd, 2025, the Palm Coast Community Center was filled with energy, creativity, and purpose as guests gathered for the highly anticipated Sneaker Ball Gala. Held in honor of Curtis Gray and his enduring motto, “Be Great,” the evening served as a reminder that legacy isn’t just about remembering — it’s about continuing the work with heart and intention.
Room 112 was unrecognizable. The space had been transformed into a celebration where elegance met artistic flair. Attendees arrived dressed to impress in gowns and suits, but all eyes were on the shoes. This was no ordinary gala — this was a night where sneakers stole the show. The footwear wasn’t just stylish — it told stories.
The Sneaker Ball Gala welcomed an inspiring lineup of speakers who each brought powerful messages rooted in leadership, resilience, and service.
Jeff Reaves
Jeff Reaves has over 20 years of experience in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and district leader. Currently the Director of Teaching and Learning for Flagler County Schools, he previously served as principal of Matanzas High School, where he helped raise graduation rates from 81% to 94%.
R.J. Larizza
R.J. Larizza is the State Attorney for Florida’s Seventh Judicial Circuit. He began his career with the Florida Department of Corrections before earning his law degree from Mercer University. With a strong background in criminal justice, R.J. has served both in public office and private practice.
Alicia Vincent, BS
Alicia Vincent has over 18 years of leadership experience in behavioral health. She has managed multimillion-dollar programs, led teams through cultural shifts, and worked across criminal justice, mental health, and child welfare systems. She currently serves as Program Director at WARM, a division of SMA Healthcare.
Savannah Prince
Savannah Prince is a certified peer specialist and Prevention Coordinator with Flagler Cares. With a degree in Sociology from UCF, she combines academic knowledge and lived experience to lead substance use prevention efforts and support recovery-focused initiatives in her community.
Dru Bowens (“Dru Flips”)
A former Division I athlete, Dru Bowens has turned his competitive drive into a thriving career in car flipping and social media entrepreneurship. He uses his platform to inspire young people and share strategies for business success and personal growth.
Julien Gasca
Julien Gasca is a Jacksonville-based Realtor and founder of Custom Kicks by Kings. He combines his passion for sneaker design with philanthropy, using proceeds from his custom sneakers to support local charities, children’s hospitals, and people experiencing homelessness.
But the night was about more than just fashion. The Sneaker Ball Gala was a charitable event supporting causes close to the community’s heart. At its core were three programs: the Curtis Gray Track & Field Scholarship, which uplifts student-athletes who give back; the “Who Cracked My Egg?” culinary-based SEL program, offering social-emotional learning through food and mindfulness; and the Student Sneaker Auction, where seniors from Matanzas and FPCHS designed one-of-a-kind sneakers to be auctioned off in support of their education, training, or career paths.
There was laughter, dancing, and connection throughout the night — but also reflection. Curtis Gray’s presence was felt in every moment. His legacy was alive in every student who dared to dream big, in every mentor who showed up to guide them, and in every guest who showed their support by simply being there.
The Sneaker Ball Gala wasn’t just an event. It was a movement dressed up for the night, a room full of people walking in purpose and style. And as the music played and sneakers hit the dance floor, it was clear: the legacy continues — one step, one student, one great act at a time.
To learn more or watch the recap video, visit www.longlivecurt.com.
