Nelly Palmer

As holiday lights illuminated the palm trees and kissed the balmy night sky, Key Biscayners got all dressed up to celeberate philanthropic endeavors in paradise.

The Key Biscayne Yacht Club was transformed into a ‘50s-era Cabaret Tropicana on New Year’s Eve when over 300 guests greeted 2009 with hopes of world peace, hunger relief and tolerance among human beings.

The Key Biscayne Yacht Club held its traditional Changing of the Guard Ceremony by lowering Commodore I. Edward London’s flag and raising Commodore John Arnholt’s flag, thus transferring the Club’s responsibilities to the new Squadron and Flag Officers.

Verónica Vidal hosted a special surprise birthday party for Maritza Minor. The unforgettable evening for the birthday girl was attended by her family and close friends.

Fundacion Manos del Sur held their annual fundraising event to benefit programs for Mexico and Argentina. The event was hosted at the residence of Silvia Pesci.

The Rotary Club of Key Biscayne Foundation held their unique tasting of the “The Great Wines from America” at the 7th Annual Key Biscayne Wine, Food & Silent Auction Event. The evenings proceeds benefitted the Rotary Club of Key Biscayne Foundation and its affiliated charities for adults and children

Donnie Hall celebrated his 51st birthday with an AREA 51-themed party at his home in Key Biscayne. More than 60 guests enjoyed a night of costumes, karaoke and crepes.

Gustavo Alonso & Paola Padovan celebrated their birthdays with a party at Puntino with about 200 guests in attendance.

The Key Biscayne Yacht Club held a special Luau hosted by Seabelle Carol Craiglow and Commodore York Flick.

FemCity held a reception at Stefano’s to introduce the professional women business network that aims to inspire female entrepreneurs online and across 75 communities.

Guests gathered for the official opening of Polga Medical Group, which offers house calls after-hours as one of the cornerstones of their premium concierge service. The event included raffle prizes by Neiman Marcus and Orchid House as well as bites from Steak Brasil Churrascaria.