Fandango celebration in Santa Rosa

Hats told stories Saturday night at Fandango, a celebration of culture, food, music and inclusion that will benefit endeavors to reduce the disparities that affect many in the Latino community.

Guests of the Fandango Celebration were encouraged to wear a traditional hat similar to one worn by a favorite historical figure. Naturally, much conversation at the gala at Santa Rosa’s Friedman Event Center focused on the significance and original wearers of the showcased headwear.

Fandango kicked off with sparkling wine, socializing and silent-auction shopping to live music. Shortly after everyone found a seat, state Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, showed why he’s in such great demand as an auctioneer.

Dinner starred chicken or vegetarian enchiladas, rice, beans and dessert.

Ballet Folklórico dancers raised the temperature of the room, and a video imparted highlights of the work of the Windsor-based Latino Service Providers. Founded in 1989, its mission is to create a healthier, more vital community by improving the access of Latino families to healthcare, education, legal support and other services and opportunities.

Once the dishes were cleared and the business at hand was dispensed with, judges of the hats-of-historical-figures contest announced their decisions.

A DJ struck up the first dance tune and invited guests to tie a ribbon on Fandango 2018 with a bit of fun out on the floor.