Nearly 500 people enjoyed the May 16 Suds & Buds party with a purpose at Norfolk Botanical Garden sponsored by the Rotary Club of Norfolk in partnership with Norfolk Botanical Garden and Special Olympics of Virginia-Chesapeake. The weather was perfect, roses were at their peak, food and beverages were outstanding and guests were happy. Outdoor music by singer and guitarist Lewis McGehee and indoor tunes by an Astro Event DJ set the tone for a fun evening. With the help of sponsors, including lead sponsor TowneBank, preliminary figures show $62,000 in proceeds that will benefit the botanical garden, Rotary Club of Norfolk charities and Special Olympics of Virginia-Chesapeake.