(PALM BEACH, FL---)  The Policemen’s Ball, the
Palm Beach Police Foundation’s annual fundraiser, held at
Mar-a-Lago , drew a sellout crowd of nearly  500 supporters and guests that included Palm Beach Police Department officers and employees, local politicians and civic leaders.  The dinner dance and live auction,  conducted by auctioneer Bill Bone, raised more than $850,000 (gross), breaking all previous fundraising records.

Governor Charlie Crist, and his wife, Carole Crist, were the Honorary Chairmen.  Crist, who was unable to attend, sent a letter read by his Special Assistant,  Diego Echeverri.  Eileen and Brian P. Burns served as Executive Ball Committee Chairmen and chose a fanciful tropical jungle décor replete with parrots – live and mechanical, which made fetching centerpieces.  Despite the frigid temperatures, guests turned out in force.  The evening began with a tented poolside cocktail reception where guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres to the strains of a steel band.  The guests were escorted to the Grand Ballroom where Palm Beach Pipes and Drums played at the entryway followed by the Presentation of the Colors by the Palm Beach Police Department Honor Guard.  The National Anthem was performed by United We Sing and the Invocation was given by Captain Fred Hess.

John F. Scarpa, president of The Palm Beach Police Foundation, welcomed the guests, acknowledged the Crists and Burns, and introduced Kirk Blouin , Palm Beach Police Chief.  Scarpa then presented the Fourth Annual Palm Tree Award to Donald J. Trump in recognition of his outstanding civic activity and philanthropy.  Retired District Attorney of New York County, Robert Morganthau paid a surprise visit and the venerable lawyer said a few complimentary words to the crowd about Trump, the evening’s honoree. A sumptuous dinner w as served and entertainment provided by Soul Survivor, kept a constant crowd on the dance floor till after midnight