2009 Miami Heart Ball an Unforgettable Night
This year’s celebration marked the inaugural year of the Big Heart Humanitarian Award, presented to members of the community who have made significant contributions to society. The recipients this year were singer/actress Paulina Rubio, award-winning journalist María Celeste Arrarás, philanthropist Lady Monica Heftler, world-renowned artist Romero Britto and president and CEO of Total Bank, Bill Heffernan. Dr. Eduardo de Marchena, from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, received the Cor Vitae Award, which honors a Miami-Dade physician or researcher who, through his/her professional accomplishments and commitments, has significantly influenced advancement in the field of heart disease and/or stroke.
The Heart Ball featured a silent auction of dresses from the 2008 Red Dress Fashion Show. Part of Funkshion: Fashion Week Miami, this fashion show featured red dresses from designers such as Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg and Nannette Lepore.
The 2009 Miami Heart Ball Chairs were Allison and William Holly of Holly Real Estate. Judge Karen Francis, star of the popular Judge Karen TV show seen daily on MY 33, served as emcee. Sponsors of the event were Saul & Theresa Esman Foundation, Piaget, creator of fine timepieces and jewelry, Holly Real Estate, Dolan Law Firm/HIG Capital and Prestige Imports. Media sponsors included Social Affairs magazine and SocialMiamil.com
The Heart Ball continued the American Heart Association’s tradition of raising funds to fight the number one killer of both men and women: heart disease. Funds raised support the organization’s mission by funding vital research and education programs.
