The Second Annual Red & White Ball took place in Philadelphia this past weekend to raise money for life-saving cancer research funded by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Global Traveler staff attended the festive, sophisticated black-tie gala, co-chaired by GT’s Publisher and CEO Francis X. Gallagher, to support LLS, the world’s largest and fastest-growing voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education, patient services and advocacy for life-saving treatments. More than 500 attendees gathered at The Westin Philadelphia to bid on an incredible selection of auction items and enjoy delicious food, drinks and entertainment while supporting a great cause. Highlights included an inspiring speech from Karlee Hoffman, a 15-year-old acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivor, and a Mercedes-Benz raffle, featuring a brand-new 2015 GLA250 4MATIC SUV donated by a local Mercedes-Benz dealership. On behalf of the Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of LLS, more than $500,000 was raised. With the funds, LLS can continue to support research and clinical trials as well as provide critical services to cancer patients and their families in 18 counties across the Greater Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley and Northeastern Pennsylvania regions. To support LLS, check out GT’s 11^th annual online travel auction, benefiting LLS for the fifth consecutive year. Through May 1, log on to our website to bid on incredible travel-related items, including round-trip business-class tickets on popular airlines, car rentals, luggage sets and overnight accommodations at luxury hotels. — Monique Barrett, eFlyer editor/associate editor (All photos © Christopher Ottaunick)