33rd Annual Silver & Turquoise Ball Focuses on ‘Spirit of Energy’
Phoenix Indian Center’s 33rd Annual Silver & Turquoise Ball at the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch on April 16 was themed “The Spirit of Energy – Traditional to Modern Expression.”
This year’s event involved traditional to modern art and entertainment starting with a performances by the Apache youth skateboard team and the band Yadilahs. Inside the banquet room, guests were wowed with auction centerpieces of artists’ original hand-painted skateboards. The event raised nearly $200,000 to benefit the programs and services of Phoenix Indian Center, with a focus on youth programs.
The 450 guests also enjoyed silent and live auctions and a text-to-give opportunity along with a meal designed by Chef Freddie Bitsoie and entertainment by traditional fancy dancers and the world championship hoop dancer Nakota LaRance, who also performed hip hop.
Dr. John Tippeconnic received the Leon Grant Spirit of the Community Award for his leadership in education and research, and the thousands of students he has impacted and mentored. Leon Grant was the founder of the Phoenix Indian Center. His children presented CEO Patti Hibbeler with a handmade purse he made before he passed.
Katosha and Errol Naki co-chaired the evening, and J.R. Cardenas, 12 News reporter, served as the emcee.
