On February 17th, 2009, there was a wonderful cocktail party for current and potential members of the Prestige Club. The staff was very warm to our guests and did a great job.
The Corporate Person of the Year award was accepted by Michael Berry, Signature Grand’s General Manager. They had hosted our annual Halloween Party – Grand Ghoul – and went out of their way to put a billboard on I-95 that advertised the event. They furnished decorations for the Gala, open bar, buffets, big screen TVs with old horror movies. All of the proceeds went to Prestige Club. They spent $75,000.00 for the party.
Gerlinde Photography was on hand at the Grand Ghoul, taking pictures that night for donations to Prestige Club. They also took pictures at our golf tournament and therefore was given the Small Business Award.
Prestige Club Vice President Melinda Rao of Regent Bank was given an award for her hard work as Chair of the picnic. New member John Ellingsworth of WorkSpace Supply was also honored for all of his dedication at the picnic and also helping at Christmas. Jim Kleinrichert of the Ark Restaurant was honored for helping organize the cooking at the picnic and helping us cook at the Susan B. Anthony Party.
Community Bank of Broward was honored for all of the help they have given us through the year. At Christmas instead of buying baskets for customers they gave $3,500 each to Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center, James Jr. Fund and Prestige Club. They sent letters to each of the customers stating they had donated in their name to the charities. They were given an Eagle Award.
Bobby Rodriguez Productions was given an Eagle Award for all they have done for the picnic and other things throughout the year. They give us entertainment, tents, pirates, and Renaissance knights.
Steve Feldman of the Ark was given an Oscar with the inscription “The Man of All Seasons.” Steve is our photographer, limo driver, and chef for breakfast. He also organizes the picnic and Susan B. Anthony Dinners.
Ed Braxel, our Santa Claus at all our parties, was given a plaque with a picture of him and all the children. He was overwhelmed.
The City of Pembroke Pines was given a beautiful marble and gold statue with a glove for all of their help throughout the year. They help with insurance, police and tents for the picnic. They have given us the theater for Susan B. Anthony and helped us get buses to take the ladies places. Mayor Frank Ortis and Commissioner Iris Siple accepted for the City.
Last but not least was an Eagle Award given to M. Patel, Manager of Walgreens at Hiatus and Sterling. The staff helped us do our shopping for all the kids at Christmas and saved us lots of money. Several new members joined.
The music was lovely, pasta stations great, and a wonderful time was had by all.
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