(October 24, 2008–West Palm Beach)– The Beach Club in
Palm Beach was glittering with ladies who met to kickoff the American Lung Association of Florida’s 7th Annual Jewels of Life gala event – A Designer Showcase & Luncheon, a benefit to provide funds for a cure lung cancer as well as cutting edge research, and life-impacting educational programs and services of the American Lung Association of Florida. In addition, the organization is continuing its campaign to raise awareness
and funds for the fight for a cure for lung cancer, which takes
the lives of more women than breast, cervical and uterine
cancer’s combined.

To the delight of the luncheon attendees – Carol Ruggeri, Executive Director of the American Lung Association of Florida, announced that the organization had partnered with Saks Fifth Avenue, represented by General Manager Lori Berg, with associates Nancy Kezele and Elisabeth Munder.  Saks will sponsor the event’s fashion show that will feature the legendary Michael Vollbracht in an exclusive premier presentation.  Saks is also hosting a pre-luncheon cocktail event in its Fur Salon with world renown designer Dennis Basso.

The American Lung Association of Florida – Southeast Area is pleased to announce it’s gala luncheon will take place on February 20, 2000, at Club Colette, Palm Beach with Committee Chairs Gail Worth, and Laura Sherman leading the event with a sure hand and experienced leadership.  Junior Chairs are Loretta Neff and Ewa Diament; Faith Morford has undertaken the role of Auction Chair.

Grand Benefactors Larry and Florence DeGeorge, Honorary International Chair Hermé deWyman Miro, Honorary National Chairs, David and Rhoda Chase, and Corporate Chair, Saks Fifth Avenue, also lend their support to the event. The gala continues as a tribute to Palm Beach socialite Ruthie Granat who began the event six years ago. 

The Lung Association is very grateful to its past chairs and contributors that generously lent their time, treasure, talents and commitment to The Jewels of Life Gala, making it one of ‘the must-do events’ of the season.  This year’s Chairmen all have very personal connections to the mission of the American Lung Association and are determined to make a difference!

Luncheon attendees included Gail Worth, Laura Sherman, Faith Morford, Hermé deWyman Miro, Norma Fireman, BJaye Pilotte, Suzi Goldsmith, Lori Berg, Nancy Kezele, Elisabeth Munder, Candide Booth, Ava Coleman, Maya Johnson, Cynthia Kasper, Wendy Roberts, Jill Kaplan, Sharon Levinsohn, Ty Philpit, with Carol Ruggeri, Gail Kleinert, Jackie Waldman and Kristina Havelos of the American Lung Association of Florida.

A number of exclusive pre-event activities are being planned for gala sponsors and patrons and include a gift gathering at Palm Beach Steakhouse, a cocktail event in honor of designer Dennis Basso, Fur Department at Saks Fifth Avenue, a cocktail party
at the new Daniella Ortiz Boutique, and a cocktail event at
Max Mara.