La Luz ‘s ”Noche” raises over $400,000

With their hand-crafted flower headwear, Barbara Young and Sue Garber get in the spirit of ”Noche en South Pacific,“ a fundraiser for La Luz Center held August 2 at Cline Cellars. “The event raised over $400,000, making this event La Luz’s most successful Noche ever,” according to Board Chair Anna Pier.

A sold-out crowd of over 450 – a sea of tropical prints with a good measure of Navy white — mingled in the lush gardens and tropical décor, complete with, for the night, macaws, cockatoos and a New Zealand wallaby.

Entertainment included Polynesian dancers and, from the musical “South Pacific,” the live show tune ““I’m Gonna Wash that Man Right Outa My Hair,” with Sheila Whitney, Abbey Lee, Susan Lee, Mariana Garcia and Sofia Williams.

Dinner by Elaine Bell began with a Kalua pig paraded in by native dancers, a Polynesian conch shell call, and a haunting Hawaiian dance blessing. Tiki torches lined the entrance to the dining area.

A dramatic red Polynesian backdrop and stage were set in the gardens, and colorful aquariums lighted the dining tables.

Master of Ceremonies Marcelo Defreitas, bare-chested in a grass skirt and henna tattoos, delighted the crowd. “I love you all and I love La Luz!” he said. “That’s why we work for nine months to give you this party. It’s a token of our appreciation for you– our donors!”

Ligia Booker, founder of La Luz and Director Emeritus told of working through the Catholic church to start helping “the almost invisible Hispanic community” 40 years ago. “Thanks to the involvement of so many people, this community now has an identity and is proud to take its part in the Sonoma Valley community.”

Juan Hernandez, Executive Director of La Luz, outlined the organization’s new direction—programs that focus on health, education and financial literacy and a collaboration with El Verano School.

“The heart of La Luz is empathy and dedication,” said Hernandez. “Hard work is the soul –and you are the hands.”

A rousing performance of Polynesian dancers from Island Breeze entertainment then took over the stage, shaking coconuts and grass skirts. Defreitas appeared as an intrepid fire dancer, followed by native dancers with swirling fireballs.

Not a beat was missed as DJ music amped up and the crowd moved its party on to celebrate together on the stage.

La Luz Center envisions a Sonoma Valley community working together where all have equal opportunity to succeed, through support in the areas of health, education and financial security.
The generosity Noche donors will power this mission.