The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its 99th Annual Awards Dinner and Gala, The Miami Beach Ball, at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Presented by City National Bank of Florida, the sold-out event welcomed over 600 guests for an evening full of celebration, connection, and community spirit under the theme “From Sand to Sparkle: A Journey Through the Magic of Miami Beach.”

One of the most memorable highlights of the night was a reimagined Miami Beach Boardwalk experience that took guests on a journey through South Beach, Mid Beach, and North Beach. As attendees made their way along the recreated boardwalk, they enjoyed entertainment and culinary delights that brought the city to life. Iconic restaurants like Carbone, Mango’s Tropical Café, and Smith & Wollensky showcased the flavor and flair of Miami Beach, while students from the Miami Beach Senior High Culinary Program impressed guests with gourmet creations. The student-run activation was a proud moment for the Chamber, as their program is directly funded by the Chamber’s Education Foundation—demonstrating the powerful impact of community support.

The Chamber extends heartfelt thanks to Gala Co-Chairs Robin Jacobs and Richard Pototsky for their dedication and thoughtful contributions to the event’s success. Jacobs, also Co-Chair of the Education Foundation, reflected on the evening: “Helping lead this gala has been one of the greatest joys of my professional journey. It was inspiring to see so many generous and passionate people come together for the sake of our students and our city’s future.”

Gratitude was also expressed to Chamber Chairman Richard Segal and President & CEO Brittnie Bassant for their leadership and presence throughout the evening. “The Miami Beach Ball was more than just an evening of celebration — it was a true reflection of the Chamber’s values: community, collaboration, and impact,” said Segal. Bassant added, “From the honorees to the heartfelt support for our Education Foundation, the night reminded us of the power of unity and purpose.”

Guests demonstrated extraordinary generosity during the Education Foundation donation appeal, raising funds to support public school programs focused on education, healthcare, and career development.

The Chamber also honored five outstanding individuals and organizations whose contributions continue to shape the community:
Barry Skolnick – Leonard A. “Doc” Baker Lifetime Achievement Award
Gift of Life Marrow Registry – Jan Pfeiffer Distinguished Service Award
Haute Living – Corporate Citizen of the Year
Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell – City National Bank Beach High Outstanding Achievement Award
Major Food Group – Excellence in Tourism Award

As the Chamber looks ahead to its historic 100th Annual Gala, the overwhelming success of the 99th celebration stands as a testament to the spirit of Miami Beach—creative, generous, and always moving forward together.