The Insider: Traditional reception launches 69th annual Palm Beach Heart Ball season

Who said being a ball chairwoman is a thankless job?

Well, to be honest, pretty much all of them, except for maybe the Heart Ball chairwomen.

In addition to the aggravation and stress, they also get a nice piece of bling, presented to them at the annual chairman's reception.

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The event, a 30-year tradition of the Palm Beach Heart Ball , takes place the Sunday of Thanksgiving week at Renato's . Arlene Desiderio, proprietress of the landmark Worth Avenue restaurant , hosts the reception.

The reception took place in the restaurant's straight-outta-Tuscany courtyard and included cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, music and lots of chat about too much traffic, too much development and too much gin in the martinis.

OK, maybe not that last part.

The evening's highlight was the presentation of the signature Chairman's Necklace, a heart-shaped pendant, to Laurie Silvers in recognition of her chairmanship of the 2023 Palm Beach Heart Ball.

Former chairs Kathryn C. Vecellio, Julie Rudolph, Monika Preston, Annie Falk and Margie Allinsonare teaming up to serve as joint chairwomen of the 69th annual Palm Beach Heart Ball , which takes place on Feb. 15 at The Breakers.

The evening's "Cheers to 100 Years" theme is a nod to the American Heart Association's upcoming Centennial Anniversary.

Patrick and Milly Park of the Park Foundation are the honorary chairman and honorary chairwoman.

More than 75 people attended the reception.

Proceeds assist the American Heart Association in its mission create a world of longer, healthier lives by ensuring equitable health care in all communities by funding innovative research, advocating for the public's health and sharing lifesaving resources.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: The ball is the oldes gala on the island and among the oldest in the US