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Approximately 400 guests attended the 17th annual “Ball in the City” sponsored by Liberty Bank and Trust to raise money for and celebrate the local division of the United Negro College Fund. Comedian Rahn Ramey served as the master of ceremonies for the night, and musicians Laura Michelle, Danon Smith and B.R.W. took the stage. The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards topped off the evening with classic pop songs like “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” and “The Way You Do the Things You Do.” As guests enjoyed the sounds of the evening, they also took part in a silent auction for prizes ranging from artwork by John T. Scott and Margaret Burroughs, autographed footballs and airline tickets, to name a few.
Many of New Orleans’ famous faces attended the fabulous event, including Mayor Mitch and first lady Cheryl Landrieu; Ball in the City founders Mr. and Mrs. Alden and Rhesa McDonald; State Representative Austin Badon and wife Therese Badon, UNCF Regional Development Director; Xavier University President Dr. Norman Francis; and Dillard University President Dr. Marvalene Hughes with her husband, David. Students from the two universities also spoke about the impact UNCF has made on their education and life.
More than $200,000 was raised prior to this year’s event, and at the end of the night, Winn-Dixie Foundation, AT&T and BP presented additional donations bringing the total amount raised close to $300,000.
