WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (October 8, 2025) – On Saturday, October 4, the West Palm Beach Library Foundation welcomed sponsors and table hosts to an exclusive cocktail reception at the Mandel Public Library, celebrating the upcoming Food for Thought fundraising dinner.

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Held on the library’s elegant Fourth Floor, the evening began with a warm welcome from Board Chair Margaret Moraskie, who acknowledged the Foundation’s Board Members and introduced Melissa Sullivan. Now in her third consecutive year as Chair of Food for Thought, Sullivan was recognized for her outstanding leadership and dedication. She, in turn, expressed gratitude to the event’s sponsors and her hardworking committee, crediting them for helping make this year’s event the most successful to date. Dean Dimke, CEO of the Library Foundation, closed the program by thanking attendees for their continued support of the library’s vital programs and services.

The Food for Thought Dinner is the Foundation’s signature fundraising event, benefiting the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach. This year’s dinner will take place on Saturday, November 8, at The Beach Club in Palm Beach, featuring acclaimed New York Times best-selling author Daniel Silva as the evening’s special guest speaker.

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Among the distinguished guests at the reception were Platinum Benefactor Melissa Sullivan; Grand Benefactor Sponsors Levenger and Yvel; Publisher-Level Sponsors Trey Mahoney and Raptis Rare Books; Author-Level Sponsors The Brain & Spine Center of South Florida; and Head Librarian-Level Sponsors Adrienne Coffin, Dr. Mary Ann DuPont, Florida Atlantic University, Stephanie Gates, Lisa LaFrance, Nancy Marshall, Drs. John & Daisy Merey, and Palmhouse Design & Build. Media Sponsor Palm Beach Illustrated was represented by Editor-in-Chief Daphne Nikolopoulos.

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Also in attendance were Table Hosts including Superintendent Mike Burke, Paul Gervais, Jamal Lake, Kelly Henry, Kyle Lucks, Dr. John Merey, Daphne Nikolopoulos, Deborah Pollack, Matthew & Adrienne Raptis, Rick Rose, Rob Russell, and Camilla Webster & Andrew Sneath.

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Guests enjoyed a sophisticated menu of passed hors d’oeuvres, including Miniature Angus Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions and Aged Cheddar, Ahi Tuna Tartare on English Cucumber Rounds, Sesame Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce, Vegetarian Curry Puffs with Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce, Palm Beach Cheese Puffs, and a decadent dessert buffet.

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Food for Thought brings together Foundation supporters and community members for an evening of lively, themed table discussions led by notable hosts—from authors and entertainers to local leaders—paired with fine dining and stimulating conversation.

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Tickets are still available for the November 8 dinner. For reservations, please call 561-868-7717.