The exuberantly colorful image of flowers and an illustrated skull on the invitation were hints to what the theme was for the 2023 Azúcar Ball: Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Based on a tradition of remembrance of Mexico, the theme took centerstage for this New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s (NOHHF) benefit presented by Pan-American Life Insurance Group at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans Hotel.
The gala was decorated with colorful skulls, flowers and decorations native to Mexico. The decor was by the Royal Events company, and local artist Belinda Flores-Shinshillas installed two traditional altars in honor of Cristina Fowler and Hector Maldonado.
The patron party kicked off the festivities with music from Mariachi Jalisco and food from Mayas Restaurant. The gala offered food from 17 restaurants and 10 dessert donors while Latin music was provided by Javier Olondo and AshèSon and DJ Felipe Estrada.
The silent auction proved popular, with the top three items being a diamond necklace donated by Friend & Company, vacation to Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic and a commissioned portrait by Belinda Flores-Shinshillas.
Also, part of the night’s agenda was the presentation of the Gálvez Cup. The recipients were Deanna Rodriguez, president and CEO of Entergy New Orleans, and Patricia Riddlebarger, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility for Entergy. The duo was honored because of their outstanding community commitment to New Orleans and the NOHHF mission.
Fun Facts: It is said in Mexico that during the Día de los Muertos celebration, loved ones who are not with us come back for one night to enjoy what they liked when they were with us. On Oct. 28, it was said by a partygoer that the event had many loved people there enjoying a wonderful party.
The Azúcar Ball proceeds benefit the NOHHF Scholarship Program.
