41st Annual Love and Hope Ball
Benefiting Diabetes Research Institute
Two-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Jon Secada brought the romance to the Love and Hope Ball at the Diplomat Resort and Spa in Hollywood on Valentine’s Day – which in combination with the annual Preview Party has raised more than $50 million for the for the cure-focused work of Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) over its four decade history. The soulful singer made hundreds of love birds swoon and helped the Love and Hope Committee celebrate 41 years of dedication to finding a cure with his live, intimate performance of hit songs, including the chart-topping “Just Another Day without You.”
After performing, Secada chatted backstage with fellow Grammy Awards winner and 2015 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Barry Gibb of the BeeGees, who performed last year at this marquee event and has also served as International Chairman for the Ball with his wife, Linda, for more than three decades.
Along with Secada’s set, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, silent auction and 5-course dinner program hosted by event Mistress of Ceremonies WSVN’s Deco Drive Co-host Shireen Sandoval, who recognized International Chairmen Linda and Barry Gibb and the following honorees for their commitment to helping the DRI find a cure for diabetes: the late Humanitarian Honoree Shirley Harris, Honorary Chairmen Barbara and Norman Shapiro, Love Honorees Debbie Lang and Barry Smith, Hope Honorees The Simkins Family, and Gold Star Honoree Dalia Glottmann.
During the program, Ball Executive Chairman Sandra Levy thanked all who helped make the ball a big success.
”I would like to toast all of the fabulous, hard-working volunteers and everyone here tonight, she said. “Thank you for everything you do on behalf of Love and Hope and the Diabetes Research Institute.”
The special evening came to a close with couples dancing the night away to the live band Soul Survivors, and receiving heart-shaped parting gifts courtesy of event sponsor Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour. Other Love and Hope Ball sponsors included: Neiman Marcus Bal Harbour, Joseph and Pamela Lubeck of Landmark Trust, Margarita and Rick Tonkinson and Miami Magazine.
