seen on the scene
It was my honor to be able to attend the Mayor ’ s Houston Consular Ball on October 14 , 2017 . The original planned venue was flooded during hurricane Harvey , but one could not tell the celebration was completely reconfigured in record time . The décor was gorgeous with fresh roses and orchids at each table , a silent auction of items from all over the world , and the full Richard Brown Orchestra that played everything from easy listening and jazz to hip-hop hits !
Dignitaries from a multitude of countries were introduced as they walked the red carpet under swords held high by the Texas A & M University corpsmen in dress whites . It was a night of celebration that reflected the spirit of Houston and the resiliency of its people . Houston Strong was the theme and hurricane survivors were named the beneficiaries of the fundraising . There were 84 countries represented in the evening ’ s program . However , a significant highlight of the evening was the Consul General of Saudi Arabia being recognized for a multi-million dollar donation . Many of the Mayor ’ s political supporters were also present , including Congresswoman Sheila Jackson , Lee , State Representative , Gene Wu and Houston Council member Ellen Cohen .
The evening was both an elegant affair with gorgeous gowns and Black-tie tuxedos as well as a relaxed atmosphere with many friends visiting and dancing the night away after a splendid dinner of lamb , shrimp and fresh vegetables . There were many champagne toasts throughout the evening , and a heartfelt anthem sung by the guests and not a soloist . There was a feeling of pride , unity with diversity and no division for one evening we were all Houstonians and visitors felt the welcome and warmth of all . On this night , it was truly my honor to represent the International Focus magazine , the United Nations pageant , but more so , to represent Houston . I was honored to be graciously asked by many guests to stand in for photos that made the night even more memorable for them . I will never forget this night !
Thank you iF Magazine ! Dr . Peta-gay Ledbetter Mrs . United Nations 2016
8 iF Magazine | November 2017