Miami, March 20, 2008 – 375 people attended the Inaugural Best Buddies Palm Beach Gala: Crystal Ball at the Flagler Museum on Wednesday, March 19th. The event raised nearly $600,000 for Best Buddies, a vibrant organization founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver to enhance the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment. Palm Beach resident and noted philanthropist Mark Freitas served as the Gala Chairman. Additionally, Mr. Freitas, the President and Chief Operating Officer of Frank Crystal & Company, graciously committed his firm to be the Title Sponsor for the Gala, which featured a cocktail hour with martinis courtesy of Grey Goose Vodka, a formal gourmet dinner, an amazing auction, and a live performance by disco legend Gloria Gaynor, who encouraged the enthusiastic crowd to sing along to her smash-hit "I Will Survive." One of the evening’s more memorable moments was a tribute to Best Buddies International Board Member Tatiana S. Platt, a renowned Internet executive and founder of FameGame.com, who has been involved with Best Buddies practically from its inception. Ms. Platt, who wore a white beaded Emanuel Ungaro gown and Cartier jewels, was honored with the "Spirit of Leadership Award," Best Buddies’ highest accolade, for her dedicated service on behalf of those with intellectual disabilities. A new addition to the Best Buddies Artist Collection was also unveiled during the Gala, by none other than the artist himself, Hunt Slonem. The work, titled "Reflections" is part of Mr. Slonem's ongoing series on butterflies, which he uses to symbolize hope and transformation – flashes of the ephemeral made real in textured paint. This striking image will later be reproduced and sold, with all proceeds benefiting Best Buddies. Other highlights of this magnificent evening included entertainment by whimsical cirque performers, speeches by local Best Buddies participants, and the opportunity to check out some of the latest models from Audi, the official automobile sponsor of Best Buddies, as well as the breathtaking Audi RS 4 Friendship Car, a rolling work of art designed by pop artist Romero Britto. In addition to the aforementioned individuals, several other notable figures attended the Gala, including Honorary Gala Co-Chairs Alina and Anthony Kennedy Shriver; Sargent and Eunice Kennedy Shriver; and Gala Host Committee members Cece Farris, Michele and Howard Kessler, Talbott and Jack Maxey, and Tom Quick. Several "transplanted" New Yorkers came out to show their support, as well, including: Jay and Anne Hearst McInerney; Patty Raynes; Carl Adams; Gillian and Sylvester Miniter; Robin Leacock; Margaret Luce; Nacho Figueras and Delfina Blaquier; Holidae Hayes; Countess Sharon Sondes; Dr. Carter Pottash; and Lon and Michelle Otremba. Photo Credit: Lucien Capehart Photography. For more information, please contact: Heather Schatz |Best Buddies International |100 SE Second Street Suite 2200, Miami, Florida 33131 | tel: 305-374-2233, ext. 207 | e-mail: HeatherSchatz@bestbuddies.org.