A Night at the Moulin Rouge," the 2008 Palm Beach Gala at the Breakers benefiting Alzheimer's Community Care was truly C'est Magnifique. Can-Can dancers, a profusion of feather boas and red roses amid a stunning crimson, gold and black decor created an authentic atmosphere reminiscent of the famed Parisian club. Approximate Gala revenues were in excess of a record-breaking $500,000. Gala chairs Geri and Frank Morrow and Hermé de Wyman Morrow greeted guests as they entered the Mediterranean room for the cocktail reception and silent auction. Among the attendees were Honorary Vice Chairs General & Mrs. Alexander Haig; International Honorary Chairs Gerald Berson, Rhoda & David Chase, Dr. Richard and Marilyn Lew Jacobs, Sydelle Meyer and Suzy Minkoff; National Honorary Chairs, Mr. & Mrs. Clark Bennett, Larry Butcher, Henry Fong and Mary Virginia Knight, James Fragakis Gregory, Mr. & Mrs. Dick Robinson, Mr. & Mrs. Mark Shalloway, Leslie & Patsy Spero and Mr. John Tolomer.
Jim Sackett, NewsChannel5 anchor, was the evening's Master of Ceremonies and introduced Larry Butcher, President of the Board of Directors of Alzheimer's Community Care and Mary Barnes, the organization's President and CEO who warmly thanked the evening's chairs and reminded everyone of the importance of the mission of Alzheimer's Community Care. Guests enjoyed exciting ballroom dance presentations by the International Dance Team of Warren and Babette Brown, dancing to the music of The Michael Rose Orchestra and the spectacular dance productions of Zanadu. Presentations to the evening's generous benefactors included a special tribute to Lois Pope, the gala's Honorary Chair and recognition of Leo Albert, in memoriam. A sumptuous French-inspired dinner by the Breakers was enjoyed by all.
Auctioneer Neil Saffer, led a spirited live auction consisting of: A 2008 Mini Cooper Convertible, courtesy of Braman Motorcars of Palm Beach; A Diamond Bib Icicle Necklace, courtesy of Hamilton Jewelers, a Five-day stay at Canyon Ranch, Tucson, Arizona, courtesy of Canyon Ranch and Southwest Airlines and a special trip to France with added amenities including tickets to the actual Moulin Rouge, courtesy of Gianni and Lexye Aversa. VeriChip Corporation President Scott Silverman was presented with a special award for being the evening's Moulin Rouge theme sponsor. The Grand Prize Drawing for an eight-day, seven-night Regent Seven Seas European cruise completed the perfect evening.
Alzheimer's Community Care has developed innovative and proven programs that have served thousands of families. A specialized day care program provides numerous support services. For more information, please call (561)683-2700 or visit www.alzcare.org.
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