The American Friends of the Israel Museum gathered at Robert Meister’s oceanfront home to enjoy an extravagant buffet and support the important work of the museum. The 17th annual event raised over $500,000 as guests clinked flutes in the candle­lit courtyard. Later the elegant crowd proceeded to a dessert and champagne reception at the home of James and Dorothy Patterson. Chairs of the event included Ruth Baum, Sherry Endelson, Cheryl Minikes, Sylvia Olnick, Andrea Stark, Marlene Strauss, Lois Zelman, and Barbara Deane.