Nick D'Annunzio, Tara Solomon, Louis Aguirre
Tara Solomon and Nick D’Annunzio, chairs of the 2009 Miami-Dade Go Red for Women luncheon, and Dr. Alan Heldman, University of Miami Clinical Chief, Cardiovascular Division and this year’s Go Red For Women Medical Chair, accomplished their goal of putting some unexpected twists on the fourth annual luncheon held at the Hotel InterContinental Miami. The fundraiser, which was presented by AvMed Health Plans and Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, was entertaining, educational and heart-healthfully gourmet.
“Heart Disease is the number one killer of women, beating out all cancers,” says co-chair Tara Solomon. “Nick and I are glad we were able to raise awareness for the heart health, as well as show women – and the men who love them, how easy prevention can be.”
“Heart Court” members for the luncheon included Brett David (CEO of Prestige Imports), Ingrid Hoffmann (Food Network personality and author), Jillian Jacobson-Altit and Susan Jacobson, Lola Jacobson and Marisa Toccin, Brian Long and Todd Corder, John Murray (Murray Law Firm), Nina Plonka (Caregivers Services Inc.), Norma Quintero (Social Affairs magazine), Conchita Ruiz-Topinka (AvMed Health Plans), Merle and Danny Weiss (Tannebaum Weiss Law Firm), socialite Nikki Haskell and actress Lisa Marie who were unable to attend but were there in spirit. Other VIPs showing their support decked out in their finest reds were Lea Black, Sam Robin, Dana Shear, Gingi Beltran, Jennifer Valoppi and Swanee DiMare.
Lola Jacobson, Marisa Toccin
The first portion of the day consisted of the Go Red “Boutique Village.” The Chopin ballroom was transformed into three themed boutiques – Learn RED, Love RED and Look RED. Attendees visited and experienced different displays such as cooking demos with wine pairings presented by Baptist Health, a dark chocolate and wine tasting by Barefoot Wines, blood pressure screenings provided by Caregivers Services Inc., “stress-free” management neck and shoulder massages courtesy of AvMed, hand massages given by mySpa at Hotel InterContinental Miami and the “Piaget Promise”photo booth where men and women made promises towards healthy living while wearing Piaget jewelry for their snapshots. Other local sponsors going red included Leon Medical Center, who ran the “chance to win,” Schering-Plough health care company and Boston Scientific.
Heart-healthy cuisine — one important aspect of a healthy heart — was highlighted, starting with breakfast. Dr. Alan Heldman, Clinical Chief of Cardiology for the University of Miami, together with the Hotel InterContinental Miami’s executive chef Alexander Feher created gourmet, delicious and heart-healthy menus for both the continental breakfast and the seated luncheon. Special touches included whole grain rolls and olive oil spread in lieu of the luncheon world’s traditional enriched flour rolls and butter rosettes. In addition, all food was prepared with extra virgin olive oil.
Joanna Palmer, Congressman Kendrick B. Meek
During the luncheon in the Grand Ballroom, guests were greeted by Deco Drive’s Louis Aguirre who emceed the event, enjoyed lively tunes spun by DJ Miss Elaine Lancaster and surprise Tango and Salsa performances by the sultry dancers of Salsa Lovers. The room was at full attention while the day’s guest speakers took the stage; Becky Montesino, Chief Nursing Officer at Baptist Hospital and a heart attack survivor and her 16-year old daughter, Kathleen captured the audience with their story.
Chef Alexander prepared the three-course meal, which was perfectly paired with red wine – known to be rich in antioxidants – provided by Barefoot Wines. “It was a great experience creating the menu for this luncheon,” stated Chef Alexander. “I was honored to cook for such a wonderful cause and to have had the opportunity to craft this heart- healthy menu with Dr. Heldman.”
About Go Red For Women
Dana Shear, Tara Elias Schuchts
Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association’s movement to save lives from heart disease — of women and the men who love them. Go Red For Women combines style with substance. Their mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. That single purpose drives all they do. The need for our work is beyond question. For more information about Go Red For Women, contact Brooke Gonzalez at 305-631-4753 or brooke.gonzalez@heart.org.
