One of the city’s largest and most elegant affairs, the Greater Cincinnati Heart Ball, was held on February 20th in the fabulous Grand Ballroom of Duke Energy Convention Center. The theme for this 23rd annual black-tie event was “Dine with Heart.” It was a celebration of the success of the American Heart Association and the doctors, scientists and clinicians who are involved in the efforts to fight heart disease and stroke, the No. 1 and No. 5 causes of death in the United States.
The evening began at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails and silent auction. The crowd was then musically drawn into the breathtaking and massive ballroom where round tables were beautifully set with colored tablecloths and elegant centerpieces. Thom Brennaman, the Master of Ceremonies, was warm and welcoming as he led more than 1,000 attendees through a “heartfelt” gourmet dinner, message and live auction. Dave Herche was honored with the 2016 Heart of the City award for his generosity and philanthropic contributions. Herche, chairman of Enerfab, Inc., is instrumental in partnering with the American Heart Association and TriHealth Heart Institute to provide lunch-and-learn programs to the members of Cincinnati Works, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help people living in poverty advance to economic self-sufficiency through employment.
Food Network’s Alton Brown, was the special guest speaker, providing both education and entertainment. An after party began at 9:30 p.m., which included late night bites and dancing with Johnny Clueless and DJ Ron Mixico. Proceeds from this spectacular gala support cardiovascular and stroke-related education and research to provide hope and help to Cincinnati families.
Kerry and John Mongelluzzo were the 2016 Heart Ball Chairs and expressed deep gratitude for the generous support. This engaging evening of fun and passion brought community and philanthropic leaders together. Last year the American Heart Association Heart Ball campaign raised just over $51 million nation-wide. The hope is to continue on this journey with more support and more lovely evenings to remember.
Check out photos from The 23rd annual Greater Cincinnati Heart Ball!