The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce 89th Annual Gala

Our last newsletter was dedicated to the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce and one of its signature yearly events. Contributing writer and friend Charlotte Libov puts into words a wonderful evening of fundraising, networking and fun:

On June, Friday 4th 2011 revelers were whisked back in time as the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce presented its 89th Annual Dinner Gala and Silent Auction, to pay homage both to the city's fabled past, and also to Miami Beach business and community leaders of today.

The event, entitled "Live from Miami Beach," attracted a record attendance of 1,100 guests, who filled a Miami Beach Convention Center that was transformed into a glittering black-and-white 1950s extravaganza.

"I am so proud and honored to have had the most successful dinner gala in its 89th year with the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce membership; businesses and Miami Beach residents all coming together to celebrate our outstanding leaders from this community," said Jason Loeb, Chairman of the Board and CEO at Sudsies.

The creative use of the menu to turn back time from the "Lucy I'm Home" appetizers, to the "Away We Go" entree and the spectacular array of retro-desserts served in the Poodle Lounge, transformed by Social Catering Sales Director Bruce Townsend, was a tribute to Chef Jonathan Barnett and the Centerplate team.
The program was highlighted by the awards ceremony, in which the Chamber honored four of the most accomplished people in the community for their contributions:

Barth Green, M.D. was given the Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding work in Haiti as co-founder of Project Medishare; Green has worked tirelessly to help bringing medical care to the earthquake-ravaged country.
Jason Loeb, Chairman of the Board was awarded the new Hi-Tides Outstanding Achievement Award, which pays homage to Loeb's mantra: "hi tides raise all boats". The award was presented live on screen from Los Angeles by one of Hollywood's most prominent director/producers, Miami native and Loeb's childhood friend, Brett Ratner.
Bill Johnson, Director of the Port of Miami received the Excellence in Tourism Award in hands of William Talbert III, President and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, who congratulated Johnson for helping to make the Port of Miami successful and "sexy".
And last, but certainly not least, came one of the evening's most awaited events, the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to City of Miami Beach Mayor Matti Bower. In accepting the award, Bower said, "I have loved this community ever since I moved here with my husband. Miami Beach is different from any other city in the world."

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT

PHOTOS BY HENRY PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY