Photos: An Evening For Autism Raises $170,000

The 3rd Annual Evening For Autism was held Saturday at the Newport Beach home of Barry Saywitz, a real estate entrepreneur whose seven-year-old son was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. 

The event raised $170,000.

Saywitz's palatial home was turned into a tropical wonderland. Some 600 guests were entertained by live music, enjoyed dinner and dessert from event sponsors Cheesecake Factory, Wildfish and Ruth's Chris Steakhouse and bid on items and trips in silent and live auctions.  

The live auction, moderated by Kyle and Chris Massey, included a Big Bear Vacation, A Chippendale Experience in Vegas, diamond earrings, playing baseball with the Texas Rangers and at-home dinner parties catered by top restaurants. 

Money raised from the event help many charities and programs, including ACT! Today, Autism Society of America, Easter Seals Southern California, Talk About Curing Autism and Newport-Mesa Unified autism programs. 

Teachers and Principals from local schools like Harbor View Elementary and Paularino Elementary were honored with special certificates for their work with children with autism. 

Celebrity guests included Max Ryan from Sex and the City and Lynne Curtin from The Real Housewives of Orange County. Newport Beach Mayor Mike Henn also attended the event. 

Last year, the event raised more than $200,000 to benefit those affected by autism and programs for people with autism.