On Thursday, June 9, InterContinental Miami hosted its annual kick-off celebration in honor of the upcoming 17th Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball, to be held on Saturday, November 5. The palpable excitement in the room came as a result of presentations by Norman Wedderburn, President/CEO of the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Florida; Shareef Malnik, Ball Chairman and proprietor of The Forge Restaurant | Winebar; and Robert Hill, Ball Host and General Manager of InterContinental Miami. The “Three Amigos” gave short yet poignant speeches about the Ball’s mission and success to date and kept the crowd of 200 abuzz about the main gala, themed – and dubbed – “The Party of the Century.”
“We are very excited about our continued partnership with Make-A-Wish of Southern Florida. In recent years, the Ball has always sold
out months in advance as it has become the event of Miami’s Social Season” said Hill. “This year will certainly not disappoint with an over-the-top affair.” Having raised $9.6 Million in the history of the Ball, we are delighted that with your support this year will mark the $10 Million Ball, to deliver hope to children with life-threatening medical conditions in our community.” Malnik continued, “It’s only fitting we celebrate this phenomenal feat to the tune of one of history’s most unforgettable events – Truman Capote’s famous ‘Black & White Ball’ also known as ‘The Party of the Century.” Guests can also expect an action-packed live auction emceed by Scent of a Woman Tango dancer and Burn Notice star, Gabrielle (Hoo Ah!) Anwar, who has made a career out of 
provoking her co-stars and fans with her tempting ways.
Esteemed guests at the kick-off celebration included Founding Benefactors Howard and Barbara Glicken; former Make-A-Wish Foundation Chairman of The Board Robby Elias; philanthropist Dr. Sanford Ziff; Ball sponsor and owner of Primp Salon, Jonathan Babicka; Dr. Leonard Tachmes; Lady Monica Heftler; Baroness Beatrice Clancy; Aristotle and Diane Ares and Tara Solomon, all of whom enjoyed musical entertainment, cocktails and an elegant spread by InterContinental Miami’s Executive Chef Alexander Feher.
Tables for the InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball range from $5,000 to $20,000, and for the past five consecutive years, seats have been sold out two months prior to the event. Make-A-Wish grants the wishes of children who have life-threatening medical conditions. Wish Sponsors range from $5,000 to $100,000. Tables, wishes and other sponsorship opportunities can be purchased by calling 954.967.9474 extension 318 or by visiting www.sfla.wish.org.
