American Heart Association’s 2014 Broward Heart Ball
Signature Event Garners Just Under a Million to Fund Lifesaving Research
The American Heart Association celebrated its annual Broward Heart Ball at the Ritz Carlton on Ft. Lauderdale Beach, raising just under a million dollars. The event gathered hundreds of Broward’s medical, social and philanthropic influencers in the community.
Returning as chairman this year was Gerry Litrento, Senior Executive Vice President at Bank United. Alongside his committee, Steven M. Mariano, CEO of Patriot National Insurance Group, was chosen as the 2014 Heart Ball Honoree. A one-of-a-kind, hand-painted tribute wall, presented by Edward Snow and the Carman Corporation, adorned the main entrance into the ballroom, highlighting the donations made to the American Heart Association in honor of Steven M. Mariano.
The American Heart Association’s Heart Ball is a nationwide gala that celebrates the organization’s mission and success in building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. For more than 25 years, the Broward Heart Ball has promoted this mission on a local level. Thanks to its donors’ support, significant advances have been seen in the fight against heart-and stroke-related illnesses.
Celebrating their fourth year in support of the organization, Patriot National Insurance Group continued their support this year as Legacy Sponsor. One Beat CPR + AED, represented by owners Lon and Christine Rosen, demonstrated their support as the campaign’s Signature Sponsor. The Master of Ceremonies was Jeff Berardelli, meteorologist at CBS12.
Upon arriving, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception where they dined on heart-healthy hors d’oeuvres and were entertained by the diverse sounds of the dynamic band Libido. As the program unfolded, guests were able to participate in a spectacular Live Auction with an assortment of unique prizes and luxurious experiences. Top bidders included Gabe Hoffman, Michael Hooley, and
Kim and Randy Sweers from FastBoats Marine Group, and a beautiful property in Ocala (a Luxury Equestrian Experience), donated by Bobby Genovese of BG Properties.
Recognized as the most impactful part of the program, was the “open your heart” moment, presented by guest teen survivor, Kylee Shea. Kylee, at the age of 12, collapsed in her school and went into cardiac arrest. Her life was saved thanks to the school nurse using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Attendees were given the opportunity to generously give a financial contribution that would go toward lifesaving research, education and community programs.
Closing the evening with a toast and a surprise, Lon Rosen, Founder and Owner of One Beat CPR + AED, excitedly announced that he would be upgrading his sponsorship to the Legacy level for the 2015 Heart Ball. One Beat CPR + AED will stand alongside Patriot National Insurance Group as the 2015 Heart Ball Legacy Sponsors. Sponsorships for next year’s Broward Heart Ball are available at all levels. To learn more about the Broward Heart Ball, please call Lauren Simone at 954-364-5023 or visit www.heart.org/browardheartball
