It was a fabulous night of glamour, games and good times at the Love and Hope High Rollers Night, Casino Royale which benefited the cure-focused work of the Diabetes Research Institute. Held at the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach on Friday, April 1, the casino-themed event raised more than $460,000!

Following a lavish cocktail reception, 300 guests, dressed to the nines, were drawn to the ballroom, aglow with romantic red hues and floral arrangements. Executive Chairman Sandra Levy welcomed everyone in attendance and introduced mistress of ceremonies WPLG Local 10 News Anchor Nicole Perez. Several very special people who helped make the night a success were recognized, including Love and Hope’s National Chairman Kathryn Simkins, and top sponsors Annie Esformes of the Nathan J. Esformes Foundation, Sharon Gustafson of the Florescue Family Foundation, and the Simkins Family Foundation, as well as Barbara Kaufman, Sandra Levy, Pam and Joseph Lubeck of American Landmark, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Division of Development and Alumni Relations, Margarita and Rick Tonkinson of The Tonkinson Foundation, Jeremy and Ariel Milgroom, Mickey & Madeline Arison Family Foundation, The Arviv Family, Jill Viner, Gale Goldstein Tucker, Eleanor Kosow, Benjamin & Robyn Fruchter, Ralph Arias and the town of Golden Beach.

Then, the revelry kicked into high gear! The energetic Soul Survivors band enticed partygoers to the dance floor, playing one hit song after another. Following a delicious dinner, decadent desserts, and cocktails by sponsor E11even Vodka, the casino opened and players tested their luck at blackjack, craps, and roulette for a chance to win an array of prizes. Guests left with goody bags of haircare products provided by Pai-Shau. All in all, it was another extraordinary affair for the Love and Hope Committee, which has been fundraising for the Diabetes Research Institute for nearly 50 years.