WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (November 12, 2025) – In a dazzling display of community spirit and philanthropic passion, more than 210 devoted supporters gathered for the West Palm Beach Library Foundation’s annual Food for Thought Dinner on November 8 at the prestigious Beach Club in Palm Beach. The evening was nothing short of extraordinary, raising a record-breaking sum to advance the Foundation’s mission of transforming lives through the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach.

 

“This was more than a dinner—it was a celebration of ideas, inspiration, and impact,” said Margaret Moraskie, Chair of the Library Foundation Board of Directors. “Thanks to the vision of Event Chair Melissa Sullivan and her dedicated committee, guests were treated to an unforgettable evening of meaningful conversation and culinary excellence, all in support of the life-changing programs offered by our beloved library.”

 

Now in her third year as event chair, Sullivan shared her heartfelt commitment: “I absolutely love the Mandel Public Library. It’s a beacon of opportunity for everyone in our community—but especially for children. Reading is a critical life skill, and the library opens that door for so many.”

 

The evening began with a glittering cocktail reception in the Garden Terrace Room, where guests mingled over an exquisite selection of hors d’oeuvres—from Brie with Candied Walnuts and Pear Tart to Mini Crab Cakes with Sweet Chili Sauce. The air buzzed with anticipation.

Dinner was a feast for the senses. Guests, seated with one of 28 distinguished Table Hosts, enjoyed a first course of Boston Bibb Lettuce with Roasted Butternut Squash, Maytag Blue Cheese, and Bacon Lardons, followed by a show-stopping entrée of Authentic Beef Wellington with Dauphine Potatoes and Julienne Garden Vegetables. The grand finale? Chocolate Profiteroles that left guests swooning.

 

But the true highlight of the evening was the captivating conversation between Daniel Silva, internationally acclaimed author of 28 New York Times bestsellers, and his wife, Jamie Gangel, CNN Special Correspondent. “Daniel’s insights into his writing process and his latest novel, An Inside Job, which debuted at #1 this summer, left the audience spellbound,” said Dean Dimke, CEO of the Library Foundation.

 

The evening’s success was made possible by the generosity of its sponsors. Melissa Sullivan led the way as Platinum Benefactor. Grand Benefactors included The Honorable Ann W. Brown, Levenger, and Yvel. Additional support came from Jody Gill, Beverly Myers, and a host of Honorary Co-Chairs and sponsors at the Publisher and Author levels. Daniel Silva was underwritten by Leo and Kathryn Vecellio and Howard and Julie Rudolph.

 

The event also featured a spirited Silent Auction during the reception and a Live Auction led by renowned local auctioneer Jay Zeager, with all proceeds directly benefiting the Mandel Public Library’s programs—from afterschool homework help and summer learning to job readiness and adult education.