Palm Beach, FL -- Grand Honorees of LIFE's 17th Annual "Lady in Red" Gala-Veronica and Alexis Mersentes graciously opened their beautiful home November 27, 2010, for a fabulous cocktail party in honor of LIFE, LIFE supporters and the upcoming "Lady in Red" Gala. The evening comes on the heels of the Mersentes' magnificent and generous gift to LIFE and the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial.

Veronica and Alexis know too well the tragedy of war as both of their fathers were executed by Nazis during World War II. They are dedicated supporters of LIFE and the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial. One of the highlights of the evening was when Veronica Mersentes, a professional opera singer, delighted guests by singing an aria to honor David Chase, a holocaust survivor. Mr. Chase, as do the Mersentes, knows the horror and heroism of war.

Some of those in attendance were Lois Pope, Maria Pope-Kessel, Michele and Howard Kessler, Jeff Sabean, Terry and Joe Mendozza, Ari Rifkin, Dick Robinson, Herme de Wyman Miro, Hayden Hosford, Sunny and Lenny Sessa, Shirley and Robert Wyner, Amy and Andrew Beller, Rhoda and David Chase, David Clery, Diana and Cory Valentine, Terri Mersentes, and Alexi Mersentes.

LIFE will host the 17th annual "Lady in Red" Gala on Saturday, December 4, 2010 at The Mar-a-Lago Club, Palm Beach. This much anticipated start of the Palm Beach social season will begin at 6:30 pm with cocktails followed at 8:00 pm by dinner, dancing, and entertainment with the legendary Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. Lois Pope, Paul David Pope and Ari Rifkin are Chairmen, while Liz and Jeff Bateman will serve as Co-chairmen. Norma and Simon Fireman are Honorary Chairmen with Veronica and Alexis Mersentes as Grand Honorees. 2010 "Lady in Red" Gala Star Ruby Corporate Benefactors are TIFFANY & CO., NETJETS, BRAMAN MOTOCARS & WELLS FARGO ADVISORS.

All proceeds from the evening will benefit the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial. Tickets to the "Lady In Red" Gala are $6oo per person, $500 for a junior ticket and attire is black-tie.