Annual Black & White Party Raises Over $140,000 For AFANLV!

Host Mark Shunock

Party Attendees

Nearly 4,000 guests dressed in their best black and white fashions at Aid for AIDS of Nevada's (AFAN) 30th annual Black & White Party held at ARIA Resort and Casino, raising more than $140,000 to benefit AFAN's advocacy for those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.

Assemblyman Nelson Araujo introduced Congresswoman Dina Titus to kick off the night with an official proclamation in honor of AFAN and the significance behind the Black & White Party.

Host of Mondays Dark Mark Shunock and the 'bearded lady of Las Vegas,' Norma Llyaman introduced live performances from Human Nature, Cirque Du Soleil, 53X and a surprise flash mob by local non-profit dance troupe Culture Shock. Longtime AFAN supporters Penn & Teller made an appearance along with Absinthe's Melody Sweets, Claire Sinclair and Carrot Top.

A sea of black and white attire ranging from ball gowns to balloon dresses filled the room and guests were treated to samples from several of ARIA's finest restaurants including Carbone, Herringbone, BARDOT Brasserie, Sage, Jean-Georges Steakhouse, Julian Serrano Tapas, Burger Lounge, Lemongrass, Blossom and FIVE50 Pizza Bar. Back Bar USA kept the party flowing with speciality cocktails made from liquor brands Skyy Vodka, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Cutty Sark, Modelo, Basil Hayden, Three Olives, Don Julio, Absolut Vodka, Bacardi and Jack Daniels.

Stilt walkers looked the part in mime-inspired attire and guests were greeted with a floor-to-ceiling installment of a red ribbon before heading into the party. One-of-a-kind photo opportunities intrigued partygoers from a sparkling infinity room with a hidden bar to a life-size chess board and a tropical claw-footed bathtub hideaway. Guests shopped an assortment of eco-conscious jewelry at ALEX AND ANI's pop up shop along with the Kindred Cord bracelet which supports the fight against AIDS.

AFAN selected 14 'Right to Wear Red' nominees to stand out and honor their continued dedication, efforts and commitment to AFAN and its mission.

"Without the support of these community members, AFAN would not be where it is today," said AFAN Executive Director Antioco Carrillo. "It is such an honor to stand here with these 14 people who have made it their life's work to break down the barriers we face when fighting this disease. They are responsible for how far we've come and will continue to make a difference in what we do next."

The night closed with a special performance from 'For The Record' with an original song titled "Love is Love" which served as a tribute to remember those affected by the shootings in Orlando.

Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) was founded in 1984 and is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada. 2016 marks AFAN's 32nd anniversary of unyielding commitment to the community, providing support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada. AFAN offers consistent and comprehensive direct client service programs, including medical case management, housing and utility assistance, emergency food and transportation vouchers, prevention and education programs and community outreach. As part of AFAN's mission, these client service programs assist in enhancing the physical health and psychosocial wellness of the individuals they serve, while promoting dignity and improving the quality of their lives. For more information, please visit afanlv.org. Keep up with AFAN events and news on Facebook - www.facebook.com/AFANLV/, Twitter - twitter.com/afanlv.

Photo credit Tonya Harvey