The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) is gearing up for the 99th annual Miami Beach Ball, its signature awards dinner gala, happening Saturday, May 17 at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Presented by City National Bank, the black-tie event will bring together more than 600 business leaders and community supporters for an elegant evening focused on celebrating Miami Beach’s spirit, progress, and future.

A Theme That Reflects Miami Beach’s Diversity

This year’s theme, “From Sand to Sparkle: A Journey Through the Magic of Miami Beach,” offers guests an immersive experience highlighting North Beach, Mid-Beach, and South Beach. Through a blend of innovative design, engaging entertainment, and a culinary journey featuring the city’s rich cultural influences, the gala aims to capture Miami Beach’s energy and community spirit.

A Night That Connects and Inspires

Richard Segal, MBCC Chairman of the Board, emphasized the event’s deeper meaning: “The Miami Beach Ball reflects the heart of our Chamber’s mission: to bring people together, recognize those who uplift our community, and reinvest in the city’s future. It’s a celebration of what makes Miami Beach extraordinary and a reminder of how much more we can achieve when we lead with purpose.”

As the event nears its 100th anniversary, the Chamber remains committed to investing in Miami Beach’s future, especially its youth. Part of the proceeds will support the Miami Beach Chamber Education Foundation, a nonprofit focused on expanding education, healthcare, and career access within local public schools.

Investing in Education and Opportunity

Robin Jacobs, Gala Co-Chair and Education Foundation Co-Chair, highlighted the foundation’s impact: “Every dollar raised translates into real resources for our schools – whether it’s a mental health counselor at Beach High, scholarships for graduating seniors, or a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen that helps students prepare for a career in the culinary industry.”

Honoring Community Leaders

The gala will also recognize five individuals and organizations for their contributions to Miami Beach:

• Barry Skolnick, founder of Ikonick Motors, will receive the Leonard A. “Doc” Baker Lifetime Achievement Award for his philanthropy and leadership in healthcare and the arts.
• Haute Living, luxury lifestyle magazine, will be named Corporate Citizen of the Year for its ongoing philanthropic efforts and partnerships enhancing Miami Beach life.
• Major Food Group, the hospitality company behind popular Miami restaurants like Carbone and Sadelle’s, will earn the Excellence in Tourism Award for boosting Miami Beach’s culinary reputation.
• Gift of Life Marrow Registry and founder Jay A. Feinberg will be honored with the Jan Pfeiffer Distinguished Service Award for groundbreaking work in marrow donor registries and community service.
• Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell, Miami Beach High alumnus and hip-hop icon, will receive the City National Bank Beach High Outstanding Achievement Award for his dedication to local youth and community empowerment.

An Evening Full of Entertainment and Impact

Alongside the awards, guests can enjoy live performances, curated Miami Beach-themed experiences, and a live auction featuring luxury items and travel packages. All proceeds benefit the Miami Beach Chamber Education Foundation, making the gala a celebration with a purpose. Tickets are $500 per person, with options to reserve seats or tables online.

Looking Ahead with Community at Heart

The Miami Beach Ball honors the city’s heritage, celebrates its present, and supports the bright future ahead. Approaching its 100th year, this gala invites everyone to come together, give back, and help write the next chapter in Miami Beach’s story.

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