The Treasure Coast's social season was launched with a flavor of flamenco and shouts of "ole!" at Martin Memorial's 12th Annual Chrysanthemum Ball, Saturday, November 4. More than 500 patrons graced the glittering fundraiser that has become the signature gala event for the region. The ball raised nearly $1.3 million for the not-for-profit hospital. Funds will help purchase a state-of-the-art cardiac TC scanner at the newly-opened Frances Langford Heart Center.

Chair Maureen Zappala and her committee ensured that every detail of the "Night in Spain" was authentic. Flamenco dancers, wines, olive oils...all were imported directly from the region of Andulucia with the help of honored guests Consul General of Spain Santiago Cabanas, and the country's director of tourism Jordi Boarda. Hosted by the Stuart Jet Center, guests were magically transported to a street scene in Spain. Colorful dancers and roving musicians mingled with patrons under a lantern-lit sky. Guests then entered a hangar transformed into an elegant performance hall where red and gold shimmered under candlelight. Dancers wowed the sold-out audience with electrifying flamenco performances, culminating with guests joining dancers on the floor.