PALM BEACH, Fla., March 12, 2024 – Palm Beach residents celebrated the American Heart Association’s Centennial at the 69th Annual Palm Beach Heart Ball this February. The a highly-anticipated gala sold out months before formal invitations were sent out.
The event grossed more than $2 million for the American Heart Association, making it the most successful Palm Beach Heart Ball since 2008.
More than 450 attendees enjoyed auctions, dinner and dancing at the “Cheers to 100 years” themed event at The Breakers, chaired by Kathryn C. Vecellio, Julie Rudolph, Monika Preston, Annie Falk and Margie Allinson. The Grand Honorary Chairpersons were Patrick and Milly Park.
“What a way to celebrate 100 years of lifesaving research at the American Heart Association,” says Stacey Comerford, executive director of the American Heart Association, Palm Beach County. “From our grassroots work making nutrition and exercise accessible across our community, to our national research, we are grateful for the generosity of Palm Beach that will help us continue onto more incredible milestones in our next century.”
Entertainment throughout the evening was performed by Powerhouse: Next Generation, a dynamic group that has performed for high-profile clients including former presidents and celebrities.
The live auction garnered much interest and excitement with several exclusive items and the champagne call, when attendees can make a donation and receive a decorated bottle of champagne, raised the most dollars ever at this event. At the end of the evening, the 2025 Palm Beach Heart Ball Chairpersons were announced: Marie Unanue and Tara Vecellio.
The Presenting Corporate Sponsor was Tampa General Hospital, the primary teaching hospital of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. TGH transplant cardiologist, Dr. Benjamin Mackie, shared remarks with the audience about the critical ways the American Heart Association has helped advance research in his field, and how that has impacted both his patients and his own family members.
The exclusive media sponsor was Palm Beach Illustrated.
Additional major sponsors included: Park Foundation, Kathryn and Leo Vecellio, Lugano Diamonds, United Bank, HCA Florida Healthcare, supported by the HCA Healthcare Foundation and Findlay Galleries.
Platinum Patrons: Margarita Allinson, Perri and Robert Bishop, Rebecca and Randy Doane, Annie and Michael Falk, Phil George and Ilona Ponomariova, Kristen and Peter Gerhard, Sue Gibson, Irene and Jim Karp, Karen and Ray Masciarella, Mashkin Family Foundation, Dr. Karen Mashkin, Monika and John Preston, Julie and Howard Rudolph, Susan Schmeichel, Laurie Silvers and Mitchell Rubenstein, Christine and Bob Stiller, Melissa Sullivan, Marie and Andy Unanue and Michelle and Peter Worth.
Volunteer leaders: Vice Chairmen Perri Bishop, Jill Davis, Dr. Deborah Day, Rebecca Doane, Raysa Fanjul, Missy de Guardiola, Irene Karp, Diana Maune, Melissa Sullivan, Marie Unanue, Mary Frances Walde, Sarah Wetenhall and Michelle Worth; Centennial Past Chairmen Paula Butler, Jules Stiller Cournane, Mary Freitas, Arlette Gordon, Marti LaTour, Patrick Park, Lois Pope, Laurie Silvers and Christine Stiller
Auction Chairman Tara Vecellio; Heart’s Delight Chairman Lore Smith, Junior Committee Chairman Virginia Oatley and Co-Chairman Angela Vecellio.
For ways to support the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball,contact Heart Ball Development Director Jessica Tobin at Jessica.Tobin@Heart.org or (561) 697-6609.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram and X.
For Media Inquiries:
Nina Barbero, APR