Out with Dr. Bill – Bidding Farewell to 2024 with High Style

From the City Lights to Desert Nights: A Celebration of Community and Joy

Hosting 120+ guests for a holiday party in our New York apartment, followed just a week later by a more intimate gathering of 75+ at our Tucson desert home, might sound ambitious–but that's the magic of the holiday season: love, giving back, and bringing together friends, family, and community.

This year's Tucson party was made even more special by the delicious culinary offerings, thanks to my sister Sheila and her husband Chris. Their expert catering skills–a side hustle to their day jobs at our local Presbyterian church–were a true blessing.

Just days after our gathering, they fed 350 members of their congregation, showcasing their incredible generosity and shared commitment to serving others. We truly all sing from the same hymnal when it comes to giving back to the communities we call home.

Seeing my family and Eric's family mingling with our cherished friends and neighbors was deeply heartwarming. We were fortunate to have so many special guests join us, including our favorite Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, jazz royalty Ann Hampton Callaway and her wife Kari, Bryan Ewing ("Mr. Bing" of Mister Bing's Show Club), and many more.

A special shoutout to my sister-in-law Lisa Baker for pulling out her pink, bedazzled Mr. Microphone and convincing Ann to sing a line from "Auld Lang Syne"–what an unforgettable treat!

Having everyone together was truly the highlight of the season and a poignant reminder of the joy and connection the holidays bring.

Ringing in 2025: A Vision of Empathy and Brighter Days

My next column will pick up where this one leaves off–ringing in the New Year in the heart of New York City. It was a night of hope, reflection, and a heartfelt toast to 2025–a year we envision filled with brighter days, deeper connections, and a collective commitment to understanding one another.

As we step into this new chapter, my wish for everyone is to look through the lenses of others, walk in their shoes, and embrace a world where empathy and compassion guide us toward a better tomorrow. Stay tuned for the magic and meaning behind our 2025 celebration.