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2024 is off to a wonderful start with some incredible events in South Florida.
The Voices for Children (VFC) Gala knocked it out of the park raising $1 million at last count thanks to generous donors and sponsors. Nearly 500 guests gathered at the Mandarin Oriental on Jan. 6, with a spectacular affair chaired by Jeff and Yolanda Berkowitz, Gabriela Ibarra, and Ron Goncalves. Guests included a list of notables with countless philanthropists, elected officials including Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, and people devoted to the cause.
A stunning reception included lots of entertainment and a silent auction followed by a live auction, dinner and dancing while raising funds for the Guardian Ad Litem programs and related initiatives. VFC president and CEO Kadie Black was a recent guest on my show with Danny Rodriguez, of Blue Missions, to talked about the amazing work they are doing with kids in foster care together. For information on the organization efforts and to donate, visit www.beavoice.org.
The Junior Orange Bowl Golf Championship offered free admission during the tournament.
Golfers understand that only the best amateurs in the world are invited to play in this event that has seen the likes of Sergio Garcia and Tiger Woods. This annual international championship, chaired by Jr. OB past president Steven Gonzalez, always brings young players from almost every continent. This year’s champions are Kayla Bryant from Boca Raton and Darren Zhou from Hong Kong. Past president J.R. Steinbauer and Steven Gonzalez shared the honors of presenting the trophies which stay at The Biltmore with the champions names engraved.
Coconut Grove came alive, as always, with craziness and fun at the annual King Mango Strut Parade in Coconut Grove on Jan. 7. Rain delayed things, but folks stuck in for a fun-filled afternoon of laughs.
This irreverent spoof on the former King Orange Jamboree Parade never disappoints with participation by so many including the Coconut Grove Woman’s Club and Coconut Grove Rotary Club. Several members of the Coral Gables Woman’s Club, including Dr. Iris Torres, CGWC president Ruth Martinez, Alex Guillen and Carol Horkowitz, joined this writer to parade with the “Marching Freds” as “Friends of Fred.” One of the most entertaining groups marching were in the “Ronnie Horror Picture Show” in full costume and choreographed dance moves. Kudos to all for a wonderful day.
On Jan. 28, Archbishop Thomas Wenski’s annual charity bike ride began at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 11691 NW 25 St. in Doral. After registration at 7:30 a.m. and mass at 8:30 a.m. conducted by Archbishop Wenski, a massive group of motorcyclists kicked up their stands and headed for Peterson’s Harley-Davidson South where they enjoyed prizes, live entertainment and food trucks. Proceeds benefitted St. Luke’s Center, a program of Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of Miami Inc.
In some other good news, A Safe Haven for Newborns (ASHFN) recently saved its 388th and 389th babies, Caleb and Cyrus. ASHFN’s founder and CEO Nick Silverio works 24/7 at no pay to save babies from abandonment and possible death and also helps expectant mothers in their times of crisis with a hot line. Those saved called him “Uncle Nick,” a name he loves and one that is most appropriate. To support Nick’s efforts and that of ASHFN visit www.asafehavenfornewborns.com.
Also, save the date, May 17, for ASHFN’s “Tee Off for Cause” Golf Tournament at Trump National Doral. Always a great fundraiser for such a worthy cause and tons of fun.
Until next time, share your time and talents, count your blessings, and make a difference.
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