The festive fundraiser at the National BuildingMuseum on March 8 attracted over 1,000 guestsdespite the steep ticket cost ($375 minimum for anindividual ticket). Tables were covered in carnationpetals resembling a Spanish mosaic, and cancer-bustingshrimp, lobster and crabmeat appetizerswere served. Spanish Ambassador Javier Ruperezand his wife Rakela welcomed guests, includingRep. Billy Tauzin (who’s been attending the gala forover 16 years), Sen. Conrad Burns, ABC News correspondentSam Donaldson and his wife JanSmith, WUSA-TV 9 news anchor Andrea Roane,Kennedy Center vice president Ann Stock, lastyear’s gala chairman Marcia Carlucci, and theambassadors from Singapore, Ireland, Colombiaand Belgium. Approximately 1.5 million (close tolast year’s total of $1.6 million) was raised for theFoundation’s educational and research programs.