Harrah’s Casino and Hotel was especially packed on the night of Jan. 18, as over 500 guests showed up for the Ball in the City, a benefit by the United Negro College Fund in order to raise money for deserving students from low-income families so that they can pursue their dream of earning a college degree. The event supports local students attending Dillard and Xavier universities. This year, Ball in the City was a three-part event. The first part featured a private donor reception (with BRW Performing Artists); a second-line band then moved the crowd into the theater for a concert performance by Ashford & Simpson. The evening ended with a post-concert party featuring DJ Captain Charles in the Masquerade Lounge of Harrah’s. The Ball was co-chaired by Alden and Rhesa McDonald, Mayor C. Ray and Seletha Nagin, Dr. Marvalene Hughes and David Brink and Dr. Norman and Blanche Francis. Major sponsors included Harrah’s, AT&T, Liberty Bank and Cox Communications.