Page 6 - The Islander - December '24

Page 6, The Islander

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

Majesty Williams, PBSO Kenneth Torrence, Board Member
Patrick Nickler

Chip and Sally Lubeck Brittany and Hector Perdigon

Brittany Perdigon, Samantha Shepherd

Daniele and John Majer Tim and Susan Damon

Rick and Elizabeth Wilson, Justin and Samantha Shepherd,
Robert and Christina Bowman
Caedyn Fairbanks with KVJ

Aerialist

Captain’s was established in 1980 servicing
Palm Beach County and is a privately
owned and managed company.
Captain’s is committed to providing
dependable, reliable and professional
ground transportation to and from all
South Florida Airports and Seaports. PBCVH212
To reserve your vehicle:
561-798-2180 or 800-634-7890 www.captainsairport.com
Abilena Cruz Stilt walker and juggler Little Star signing autographs