The devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina has been followed by a wealth of Mardi Gras-themed fund-raisers. At Miami Beach's Touch restaurant, a team of planners from TAI Entertainment were inspired by Fat Tuesday masquerade balls when they organized the Tribute to the Big Easy. Throughout the night, performers from Parafernalia strolled through the lounge dressed in Marie Antoinette wigs, elaborate white makeup, bustiers, and feathered masks. Masked greeters towered over guests at the entrance, wearing glittery white gowns and alabaster plumes. Inside, musicians from M.U.C.H. enhanced lounge music with jazzy trombone and trumpet licks. Proceeds from the cocktail party were donated to United Way Operation Helping Hands.
—Juan Carlos Rodriguez
—Juan Carlos Rodriguez