Page 4 - Talk of Tequesta - December '24

Page 4, The Talk Of Tequesta

TequesTa spoTLigHT from page 1 The night was filled with entertainment, including aerialists, Plastering, Inc., Debt Helper, David S. Feldman, M.D., Ernst
a stilt walker, a juggler, and a mime. Guests indulged in classic Young, FPL Home, Frank and Herta Suess, Garage Living,
all to support Little Smiles’ mission of helping kids be kids circus treats like popcorn and ice cream, and the kids enjoyed a Gioia Family, Good Greek Moving & Storage, Ideal Nutrition,
during difficult times. candy cart. The silent auction featured over 130 items, adding Jackie and Bert Klawonn at BWG Realty, Joseph Lubeck, The
The evening blended circus magic with Hollywood to the excitement and charitable spirit of the event. Donohue Group at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, The
glamour, beginning with the grand entrance of the Stars, Brittany Perdigon, executive director of Little Smiles Florida, Leandro P. Rizzuto Foundation, Ocean Properties, Platinum
announced by Virginia Sinicki, Kevin Rolston, and Jason reflected on the event: “The Stars Ball is about celebrating these Title Insurers, Reilly Foam Corporation, Palm Beach County
Pennington of the KVJ Show 97.9 WRMF. Dressed to impress, brave children and showing them the love and support they Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s Medical Center and Palm Beach
the Stars were escorted down the red carpet, basking in the deserve. It’s a reminder that, no matter the challenges, they are Children’s Hospital, Vertical Bridge, and Waferworld.
spotlight and signing autographs as fans cheered them on. not alone, and their community is here for them.” Little Smiles Florida has been making a difference in the
Accompanied by music from Digital Vibez, they made their Another highlight was the presentation of awards that were lives of children throughout South Florida for 25 years. In
way to center stage, where the KVJ Show 97.9 WRMF hosts given to Little Smiles founder Chip Donohue and to nurse 2023 alone, the organization brought smiles to over 55,000
celebrated each Star with enthusiasm. Judy Martyak who received the Amy A. Reilly Humanitarian local children, working closely with 34 pediatric facilities,
The ballroom perfectly captured the Under the Big Top Award. Their dedication and compassion have made a lasting including hospitals, shelters, medical daycare centers, foster
theme with a flowing fabric canopy draped from the ceiling impact on the organization and the children it serves. homes, and local law enforcement.
creating the illusion of an authentic circus tent. Tables were The evening would not be possible without the leadership For more information about Little Smiles Florida and their
adorned with imaginative circus-inspired centerpieces, of cochairs Samantha Shepherd and Virginia Sinicki and the ongoing efforts, visit littlesmilesfl.org.
featuring playful elements like elephants, circus wagons with generous support of sponsors including Ameriprise Financial
lions, and carousels, complemented by vibrant red and white The Nickler Group, Bronx House Pizza, Cataldo & Son
floral arrangements.

Daniele and John Majer Tim and Susan Damon

Majesty Williams, PBSO Kenneth Torrence, Board Member
Patrick Nickler
Steve Grandizio, Etta Oller, JPD Officer Sam Razzano

Chip and Sally Lubeck Brittany and Hector Perdigon

Rick and Elizabeth Wilson, Justin and Samantha Shepherd,
Brittany Perdigon, Samantha Shepherd Robert and Christina Bowman

Luke and Amanda Lostroscio Armando and Hedy Fana

Judy Martyak who receives the Amy A. Reilly Humanitarian
Award

Caedyn Fairbanks with KVJ

Abilena Cruz