The
Grand Ballroom of the Mar-a-Lago Club exuded elegance
as more than 600 guests in white ties, tails and tiaras,
demonstrated their support for the American Red Cross
at the 49th Annual International Red Cross Ball held
January 28.
“This year's event guaranteed at least
$1 million for the American Red Cross Greater Palm
Beach Area Chapter,” said Simon C. Fireman,
chairman of the event. “We are so grateful for
the tremendous support we've received from our
guests, sponsors and volunteers who worked tirelessly
all year to create this magnificent event."
United
States Marines and a trio of trumpeters saluted ambassadors
from Costa Rica, Grenada, Lithuania, Slovenia, Sweden,
Bulgaria and Liechtenstein who arrived in Palm Beach
on Donald Trump's private plane for a weekend-long
fete on Friday.
The
ballroom was dramatically dressed in wall-to-wall
dazzling white with crystal accents. More than 3,000
candles illuminated the room framed with 12,000 white
orchid blossoms, and hanging hydrangea-clad chandeliers.
The tables were lined with pure white taffeta, dressed
to the floor with an overlay of silk organza embossed
with crystal beading. A red carpet led the way to
center stage to a Red Cross, created with 23,000 red
dianthus. Guests mingled, dined and danced to the
sounds of the Michael Rose Orchestra and legendary
performer, Frankie Avalon.
“The
International Red Cross Ball is our signature fundraising
event,” said Dean Dimke, executive director
of the Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter. “The
funds raised through events such as the Ball help
our chapter to continue to serve our community with
our lifesaving programs and services, and educational
outreach such as CPR, First Aid, Disaster Preparation,
Water Safety, and HIV/AIDS Awareness. We are making
a difference in the lives of more than 400,000 people
in our jurisdiction annually.”
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