February, 2010 – Wellington’s Vintages Gala Celebrates the Past

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For Immediate Release

Contact: Natasha Norris

954-964-4040

nnorris@drif.org

 

WELLINGTON’S VINTAGES GALA CELEBRATES THE PAST, SUPPORTS A FUTURE FREE FROM DIABETES Proceeds benefit the Diabetes Research Institute

Upon their arrival at Wellington’s International Polo Club Palm Beach on Saturday, February 20, nearly 250 guests took a trip back in time while enjoying the premiere Vintages Gala. Celebrating many favorites from the past and creating an evening to remember in the future, Chairpersons Terri and Carmine Priore III and their hard-working committee successfully raised $160,000 for the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI.) Although the classic affair took guests back in time, its purpose was to help the DRI move closer to a cure in the near future.

“The Diabetes Research Institute has been at the forefront of diabetes cure-focused research for nearly 40 years. We’ve come a long way,” said DRI Foundation President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman. “We now have in excess of 200 scientists in a state-of-the-art facility, but while science is progressing, so are the costs of it. We need your help, and we’re thankful for your support tonight.”

 

Vintages Gala Chairpersons Terri and Carmine Priore III are thanked by Diabetes Research Institute Foundation President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman (right.) Photo: Gary Kane.
Vintages Gala Chairpersons Terri and Carmine Priore III are thanked by Diabetes Research Institute Foundation President and CEO Robert A. Pearlman (right.) Photo: Gary Kane.

Sporting evening wear from across the decades, revelers sipped champagne as they followed a red carpet into the cocktail reception, enjoying the classical sounds of violin music played by Jed Maness. In the vintage piano lounge, renowned jazz pianist Copeland Davis offered special entertainment, as well. There, guests had the opportunity to purchase cigars and watch as they were hand-rolled. The highlight of the night for many was perusing the antique car show, featuring 12 vehicles that helped conjure up memories of days gone by. After the votes were tallied, a 1936 Ford 3 –

Window Coupe owned by Dr. Don Rubenstein, won “Best in Show.”While guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, big screens showcased silent black and white films, and Private Stock Entertainment played tunes from the 1920s through the present. An announcement revealed Mark and Courtney Lemasney as the winners of the 50/50 raffle, but seconds later, the crowd cheered as the generous couple donated the money to the DRI.

During the dinner program, the Priores expressed thanks to their committee and recognized generous sponsors: Florida Power & Light Company, Emerson Process Management Power & Water Solutions, Inc., International Polo Club, The Rosen Group, Palms West Hospital, Zachry, Marie and Michael Bianchini, Carousel Development & Restoration, Inc., Concord Engineering, Inc., Allstate/Karen and Robert Cavanagh, Karen Hardin, Aaron’s Catering, Delaware North Companies, Dr. and Mrs.

Carmine Priore, Mapei Corporation, Mitsubishi Power Systems Americas, Inc., Rapid Rooter Plumbing & Drains, Waste Pro, Diamante Farms, Classic Controls and The BOMAR Foundation.

Among approximately 215 silent auction prizes, everyone seemed to find a treasure to bid on

 

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whether it was a hot air balloon ride, a piece of vintage jewelry or a themed gift basket. But it was the live auction led by Ben Boynton that held the most excitement, especially for Margaret and Alan Boston, who won a Havanese Shih-Tzu puppy from Palm Beach Puppies. As guests departed, they picked up vintage cigar boxes filled with goodies and took home classic antique portraits to remember the evening by.The mission of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation is to provide the Diabetes Research Institute with the funding necessary to cure diabetes now. The Diabetes Research Institute, a center of excellence at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, is a recognized world leader in cure-focused research. Since its inception in the early 1970s, the DRI has made significant contributions to the field of diabetes research, pioneering many of the techniques used in islet transplantation. The DRI is now building upon these achievements by bridging cell-based therapies with emerging technologies to restore insulin production. For the millions of families already affected by diabetes, the Diabetes Research Institute is the best hope for a cure.

Visit DiabetesResearch.org or call 800-321-3437 for more information.