The good times definitely rolled on May 19 at the Davie Community Foundation Sounds of Summer in the Big Easy.

The weather cooperated to allow more than 450 guests to arrive in New Orleans – WinMock – without a drop of rain; ready for an exciting night.

After a greeting from foundation board members equipped with bright purple, green and gold beads, guests enjoyed dinner in a variety of “restaurants” and on Bourbon Street. An authentic creole and Cajun menu by Tricia’s Catering delighted the palate as guests returned to the buffet again and again. Dinner was completed with a slice of King Cake straight from New Orleans or luscious bread pudding with chocolate sauce.

An official welcome and thank you to event sponsors was offered by Jane Simpson, president, and Ken Lard, board treasurer.

A special recognition was made of Zach Wright and Joel Edwards for their pivotal role in ensuring the foundation’s successful completion of the 5n5 Community Impact Challenge.Together they offered the match that put the foundation over the top of its $5 million fundraising goal.

Entertainment was offered throughout the evening. Guests could shop in the French Market, dance to the music of Too Much Sylvia, enjoy Jazz favorites with The Matt Kendrick Jazz Quartet, or watch the spirited competition of the Dueling Pianos. There was something for everyone keeping the night lively and fun. Guests took pictures with Nola, the New Orleans jester, in the Palace Café and competed for prizes in the silent auction through the online bidding.

The live auction created its own source of entertainment as guests battled for five prizes. Bidders had a serious competition as they topped one another again and again. In the end, the five items raised $17,000 – a new record for the Sounds of Summer Live Auction.

“We were amazed by the true generosity on display as guests competed for the Live Auction prizes,” said Simpson. “I could not believe the top bids and sincerely thank all of those who participated.”

The winner of the King Cake raffle, Robin Hartman, was given the opportunity to select the city to visit at next year’s Sounds of Summer. She could choose between New York City, Nashville or San Francisco. Being a true southern girl, Robin chose Nashville and will receive two complimentary tickets to the 2019 “trip” to the Music City.

“It was a wonderfully amazing night,” said Simpson. “We are not sure of the bottom line yet, but proceeds were more than $120,000. I am very thankful for all of the volunteers, staff and guests who made it fantastic. I hope we will have even more guests join us in 2019 as we travel to Nashville. I am pretty sure there is a committee field trip for research in our future.”