April-May 2015 Issue of Inside New Orleans by Inside Publications

450

THE BOSWELL SISTERS • WOMEN IN BUSINESS • OUTDOOR LIVING • BEST FESTIVAL FOOD

APRIL-MAY 2015 VOL. 2, NO. 2

April-May 2015

Vol. 2, No. 2

Publisher Lori Murphy –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Editor Anne Honeywell Senior Editor Jan Murphy Contributing Editor Poki Hampton Associate Editor Leah Draffen Contributors are featured on page 16. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Art Director Brad Growden Graphic Designer Jennifer Starkey –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Director of Business Development Poki Hampton Business Manager Jane Quillin Associate Publisher Candice Laizer Advertising Account Executives Caroline Battaglia Barbara Bossier Adelle Baugas Deyette Danford Anne Honeywell Candice Laizer Jeanie Romig Barbara Roscoe Amy Taylor Advertising Coordinator Katie Brooks Sales Assistants Lindsay Gardner Margaret Rivera –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For advertising information phone (504) 934-9684 fax (504) 934-7721 email sales@insidepub.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Please send items for Inside Scoop to scoop@insidepub.com. Photos for Inside Peek, with captions, should be sent to peek@insidepub.com. Submit items for editorial consideration to editor@insidepub.com. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Contact Inside New Orleans P.O. Box 6048 Metairie, LA 70009 phone (504) 934-9684 fax (504) 934-7721 website www.insideneworleans.net Subscriptions 1 Year $18 2 Years $30 email subscriptions@insidepub.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

On the cover Artist Allison Stewart Study for La Fleur

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– INSIDE NEW ORLEANS is published bi-monthly (February, April, June, August, October, December) by M and L Publishing, LLC, PO Box 6048, Metairie, LA 70009 as a means of communication and information for greater New Orleans, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid - New Olreans, LA. Copyright ©2015 by M & L Publishing, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork. Inside Northside Magazine is created using the Adobe Creative Suite on Apple Macintosh computers.

Inside New Orleans

contents table of

page 114

Features

18 Vibrations of Color Cover artist Allison Stewart page 40

30 The Boswell Sisters “World’s Foremost Harmony Singers” 40 The Ticket to Heritage The Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music 42 At the Table The Festival Season of New Orleans Eating 48 Lynn Drury Rocking Like That Windy Shutter 50 Kingsley House Educating children, strengthening families and building community. 52 A Bright and Happy Home The Lane House 114 Living Her Dream Deanie’s Barbara Anselmo Chifici.

page 52

Outdoor Living

59 Water Features

60 Great Living Outdoors

Business Profile

100 Gulf Coast Office Products

Women IN Business Follows Page 66

page 30 8

Inside New Orleans

contents table of

page 101

Departments 12 Publisher’s Note 15 Editor’s Note 16 Contributors 22 INside Scoop 29 INside Story The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

109 INside Look Blue Believer

64 Travel A Mission to Tranquility Bangalore, India

18 IN the Spotlight 1 Bombay Club & Martini Bistro Grand Opening

99 Wine Cellar White Burgundy

119 INside Peek

101 Flourishes Extraordinary gifts and home accents. 106 Trade Secrets The Well-Appointed Guest Room

21 IN the Spotlight 1 An Afternoon Tea with WYES Inspired by Downton Abbey 24 IN the Spotlight 1 Inside New Orleans Meet the Artist Party 25 IN the Spotlight 1 Amazing Grapes 26 IN the Spotlight 1 Carnival Revelry 27 IN Great Taste 1 Egg-adorned Sensations 129 INside Dining 134 IN Development Places to Make Music 137 Ad Directory

page 109 page 64

138 Last Bite Carreta’s Grill

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

– Mahatma Gandhi

by Lori Murphy Philanthropy is such a grand idea. You can imagine old money and older generations as caretakers and possibility makers dispensing money to important causes from a separate and lofty place. We see buildings named in their honor, and rightfully so. But that certainly doesn’t tell the whole story. Personal monetary gifts invested in the quality of life of our community are at the heart of what philanthropy means. Thinking of philanthropy as someone else’s job, as a high-minded pursuit for others, might take away personal responsibility, but it takes away something else, too. Leaving others in charge of the gift-giving also puts them in charge of what investments are made, what initiatives make it to the forefront. Getting involved and making a personal contribution means your goals can be put into motion. You can choose what cause or issue to elevate. That is exactly what the Greater New Orleans Foundation is organizing for us on May 5. Give NOLA Day is 24-hour, community-wide online giving day that hopes to raise $3,000,000 for local non-profit organizations. According to Albert Ruesga, president and CEO of the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the inaugural effort last year raised much-needed funds for over 300 organizations. Best of all, there were more than 19,600 individual donors involved! Giving starts at just $10, but last year the average gift was $147, and over $2.2 million dollars was raised. Get involved in Give NOLA Day. Make your family into philanthropists! Profile pages are set up to educate novice givers about the mission of the 501(c)(3) organizations. It is a great way to exercise individual choice in giving and feel the immense satisfaction that can be found putting your gift to work in a cause that you feel strongly about. Though your personal philanthropy choices and mine may not be the same, I know we both will benefit from the investment!

Note: All donations made through www.givenola.org go directly to participating nonprofits working on a broad range of issues: arts and culture, animals, community improvement, education, environment, health, housing, human services, public safety and crime, and youth development. The Greater New Orleans Foundation does not collect any fees from contributions in order for the nonprofit organizations to receive the maximum benefit.

Editor’s note Reader Resources

by Anne Honeywell This month I will celebrate a birthday. A big birthday—or so it is

supposed to be. Throughout this year, I will be celebrating with some of the women who have been my friends for most of my life. I treasure these women and these friendships. We are all so different, yet we all share one commonality. Strength.

Receiving Inside New Orleans

Women. This issue is much about women—amazing women.

in Your Mailbox?

Just like my table of friends, all of them are strong and talented in

You are on our mailing list, and you will continue

their own unique way. Each successful in her own right, albeit as

to receive Inside New Orleans every other month at no charge. Please join us in thanking our advertisers, who make this possible.

an artist, a chef, musicians or business women. Each has a story to tell, and I enjoyed being a part of telling their stories. I have learned so much from them, including a few surprises. I would never have

Pick Up a Copy: At one of our advertisers’ locations, or at Barnes & Noble, 3721 Veterans Blvd., Metairie.

thought that our talented cover artist Allison Stewart (page 18) is a trained biologist who is studying French! Women are strong. We have to be. As a woman who was widowed at a young age and left with two very young children,

Subscribe: To subscribe to Inside New Orleans, or if you have a question about your subscription, please contact us by telephone or e-mail us at subscriptions@insidepub.com. Subscriptions are $18 for one year, or $30 for two years. To change your address, please send both your old address and new address. The post office does not forward magazines.

I could relate to Deanie’s owner Barbara Chifici’s loss, but the magnitude of having seven children to raise and a business to run alone was unimaginable. Read her story of success on page 114. Women are gritty. Singer songwriter Lynn Drury is rocking like a windy shutter – with a voice that sounds like combination of Bonnie Raitt and Janis Joplin; her ‘Mississippi grit’ sound is a crowd favorite. Read more about this New Orleans talent on page 48. In our special Women in Business section, get to know the

Advertising Information:

women who contribute so much to their own enterprises and our

For advertising information, please contact us by

area’s economic wellbeing. I hope their stories inspire you as much as

telephone or e-mail us at sales@insidepub.com.

they did me!

Inquire and Share Ideas: Do you know a person, organization or endeavor we might consider featuring in our pages? Or a great storyteller who may want to write for us? Please contact the editor at editor@insidepub.com.

ps I would be remiss if I didn’t give a shout out to the incredible women behind the scenes here at Inside New Orleans—and thank goodness for Brad, our art director, who pulls it all together and makes us look great! April-May 2015 15

Contributors

Tom Fitzmorris

Leah Draffen, associate editor at Inside Northside, sat cross-legged on the floor of her grandparents’ den intently listening to her brother, cousin and uncle play their guitars as her pawpaw played the fiddle and sometimes the mandolin. While she never picked up an instrument, she quickly picked up a pen, learning to write poetry and creative essays. After earning a bachelor’s degree from LSU in mass communications, Leah joined the Inside Publications team to continue her passion for writing. Leah now loves writing about music and listening to the many talented musicians in our area. In this issue, Leah tells the stories of musician Lynn Drury on page 48 and of the Heritage School of Music on page 40.

Tom Fitzmorris was delivered into New Orleans by a jazz musician on Mardi Gras 1951. He grew up in Treme, ate red beans every Monday from his Creole-French mother until he left home. He began writing a weekly restaurant review column that is still published after 42 years. In 1975, he started a daily radio feature, which grew into his current three-hour daily talk show on 1350, 3WL. Now a northshore resident, Tom enjoys eating and writing about food on both sides of the lake. A Certified Culinary Professional by the IACP, he is the author of several cookbooks, more than a dozen restaurant guidebooks and a daily online newsletter (nomenu.com). In At the Table (page 42), he offers a guide to the wondrous variety of foods to be enjoyed at upcoming festivals.

Yvette Jemison photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Leah Draffen

Other Voices: Kate Brevard, Sandy Franco, Candra George, Tom Hancock, Michael Harold, Anne Honeywell, Trudy Hurley, Bill Kearney, Meri Monsour, Lauren Murphy and Terri Schlichenmeyer. 16

Inside New Orleans

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Our contributors give Inside New Orleans its voice, its personality and its feel. Here we are proud to highlight a few of them so that you can put a face with a name and get to know them.

Mary Satterlee Decorator/stylist/writer, Mary Satterlee was born and raised in New Orleans. She received a journalism degree from LSU and worked as a television news reporter before going to Loyola Law School. Upon graduation, Mary moved to Los Angeles, where she worked in the entertainment licensing industry. As it often does, the Crescent City drew Mary back home. She landed on Magazine Street, where she opened a small furniture store that blossomed into a decorating business. For the last 10 years, she has worked as a decorator and stylist. Mary left her full-time New Orleans inhabitance when she got married and now divides her time between New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Florida. An avid traveler, she shares her take on India on page 64.

Yvette’s passion for all things culinary extends back to her childhood while growing up in a military family. Her recipes and home cooking are influenced by the many places she has live. She was immersed in the TexMex cuisine of South Texas and has experienced food from Native American Indian reservations to the street food of Turkey. Yvette attends weekly pottery classes at John Hodge’s pottery studio, where she creates many of her serveware pieces. She often attends cooking classes while traveling with her husband and two daughters and has truly enjoyed a well-seasoned life. Yvette presents “Eggadorned Sensations” on page 127.

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Vibrations of Color Cover artist Allison Stewart

by Anne Honeywell

Inside New Orleans

ALLISON STEWART HATES TO SIT AROUND and watch paint dry. “I work on two paintings at a time so I can continuously paint. I move from one to the other,” says the New Orleans artist. “It takes me about three or four weeks to finish them, but I am not waiting for the paint to dry!” When you enter Stewart’s studio, you are immediately taken aback by the scale, beauty and color of her work. And by her genuine smile and humbleness as she greets you, surrounded by her masterpieces which have yet to make it to their final destination. When asked how all this beauty and color gets onto the canvas, Stewart explains it is a bit of a process—first and foremost, a thinking process. “Fragility, beauty, loss and vulnerability—those are the things I think about,” she says. “Living in the region of the United States that we do, there is a delicate balance between land and water that is being altered; we are losing so much through coastal erosion. I go out into the swamps and take lots

of photographs. But I don’t want to paint my observations, I want to paint my feelings about those observations. How I feel is my inspiration.” Stewart was trained as a biologist, and she is motivated by the cycle of organic life in the process of living and dying. “The incredible urge to survive, the change of seasons. It is about the way I feel and more about making the mark on the canvas than representing any particular season.” Somewhere between realism and abstraction, her paintings become visual diaries upon which Stewart records her responses to the threatened landscape. Referring to a group of drawings, Stewart says, “I was very affected by the BP oil spill, and this is how I felt. The rest of the world noticed, but they went on with their lives, and here we are. It is our gulf, our seafood and our wildlife. I never really did anything with these, but I had to get it out of me.” When Stewart starts in on a painting, she has no particular color palette in mind; it is a buildingup process. “No colors come out of a tube. They are all mixed and layered and then scratched into,” she explains. “It is all about puddling, pooling and >>

Meet cover artist

Allison Stewart and see some of her favorite works on display at

Arthur Roger Gallery 432 Julia Street New Orleans

Saturday, April 18 3:00-5:00 p.m. For more information, call

504-934-9684

Everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Invited!

April-May 2015 19

thin layers—at least in the beginning—to see what the colors will do together.” It is the subtle changes in color that make Stewart’s paintings so dynamic. She uses layers of color, light, form and texture to address issues of beauty and loss, time and transformation. As she tells it, it is the ‘vibrations of color’ going from an orange to red to peach to a yellow and ending with a fuchsia and back to purple, with no particular boundaries. It is not geometric abstraction. “I could never stand the lines. Though I was never a precisionist painter, I did start out doing biological drawings and then graduated to detailed drawings of single-engine airplane parts. My style has evolved over the years.” Stewart also likes to think about the paradox of painting on a flat surface and yet conveying a feeling of depth without an aerial perspective. “The contrast between flat and looking through and seeing something behind. A literal flatness and then depth,” explains Stewart, “and that kind of indeterminate horizon. I really like the fact that paintings don’t have to look out. They can look down, they can look up; it gives you a disorienting aspect, but it is fun to play with.” Stewart believes it is good to challenge yourself. As an example, she says, “I am desperately trying to learn French. I take lessons once a week. I’m afraid I don’t have a gift for languages, but I just love it! The intense concentration involved in learning a new language is so good for me in many ways.” She also challenges herself as an artist. “Color has been a lifelong lesson for me. But I find, at times, it is good for me to get away from it and see if I can still make a painting interesting without using the crutch of color.” And yes, she does. 20

Inside New Orleans

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

From her large-scale canvases to her smaller works on paper, Stewart can create interest and tell a story with only a few shades of browns and blacks. The feeling one gets from these paintings is totally unlike the one from her paintings with boundless colors; these works are seemingly quite a departure from Stewart’s jovial and bright personality. Her paintings expressing the complex and disturbing dialogue between man and nature have gained Stewart national recognition. She has exhibited extensively throughout the United States, and her work is included in many public, corporate and private collections, some of which are the U.S. Department of State Art in Embassies Program, the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Historic New Orleans Collection, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, Texaco, Freeport McMoRan, Price Waterhouse Corp., Chase Manhattan Bank, ARCO, American Express, Sun Bank of Florida, Pan American Life and the Pensacola Museum of Art. Stewart has received numerous awards, including an individual artist fellowship from the Louisiana Division of the Arts in 1988, an individual artist grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities in 1997 and the Mary Freeman Wisdom Foundation Grant in 1995. In 2005, she was awarded an Artist in Residence position at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Colorado. Her amazing career and accomplishments notwithstanding, what Stewart is most proud of her is her beloved KID smART program. In 1998, after realizing that arts, music and enrichment courses were being cut from public school curricula and budgets throughout New Orleans, Stewart and her husband, fellow artist Campbell

Hutchinson, founded KID smART. “We founded KID smART because we love three things about the city. We love children, we love art and we love the beautiful freedom of expression and creative environment that New Orleans offers.” From four artists working with 20 children on Saturday mornings, the program has developed into in-school classes and expanded its visual and performing arts programs into eleven elementary and middle schools. To date, KID smART has worked with more than 25,000 kids to provide “education through imagination.” KID smART’s focus is arts integration—linking the arts with the existing academic curriculum to benefit underresourced children in public schools in the New Orleans area, including charter schools. “Needless to say Campbell and I are very proud of KID smART. It has far surpassed our wildest dreams, and we could not have done it without the tremendous support of so many.” Merci, Allison Stewart. Merci. April-May 2015 21

French Quarter Festival

INSIDE a handy guide to events and entertainment in and around New Orleans

April 1 Opera on Tap. Casual 90-minute concert

artist and his circle. Newcomb Art Gallery,

of opera and Broadway. Rusty Nail,

Woldenberg Art Center, Tulane University,

Teatro Wego, 177 Sala Ave, Westwego.

1100 Constance St. 7pm. 525-5515.

6823 St. Charles Ave. 865-5328.

7:30pm. jpas.org.

neworleansopera.org/opera-on-tap/.

newcombartgallery.tulane.edu.

Poydras St at Loyola Ave., ending at City

Historic Inn and Gardens, 36 Melrose

New Michael Aram styles; special pricing;

Ave, Natchez. (601) 442-5852.

gift with purchase. Arabella, 3902

monmouthhistoricinn.com.

Hwy 22, Mandeville. (985) 727-9787.

Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, 916

arabellamandeville.com.

N. Peters St, Dutch Alley. 25 person limit.

1-25 Lin Emery. Sculpture exhibition. Arthur Roger Gallery, 432 Julia St. Tues-Sat,

1-May 31 Tennessee Williams: The

Park. 8am. ccc10k.com. 7 French Market District Jazz Tour. New

11am-12pm. Free. frenchmarket.org.

10am-5pm. 522-1999.

Playwright and the Painter. Ogden

arthurrogergallery.com.

Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St.

Foundation 2015 Spring Symposium.

539-9609. ogdenmuseum.org.

Lecturer Jenks Farmer. Botanical

1-27 Linda Dautreuil Exhibit. The Atrium Gallery at Christwood, 100 Christwood Blvd, Covington. Free. christwoodrc.com. 1-May 24 Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist. Works on paper by the 22

1-May 31 Michael Aram Spring Event.

4 Crescent City Classic. Starting at

Inside New Orleans

3, 4 Donald J Pliner Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shoe Trunk

7 New Orleans Botanical Garden

Garden, City Park. Cocktail reception,

Show and Trask Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shoe Trunk

5pm; garden tours, 6:15pm;

Show. Rubensteins, 102 St. Charles Ave.

lecture, 7pm. $45. 483-9473.

581-6666. rubensteinsneworleans.com.

neworleanscitypark.com.

photo: RACHEL JUNE

1-7 Spring Pilgrimage. Monmouth

3, 4 The Lady With All the Answers.

April 9-12 French Quarter Festival. Art shows, dance lessons, food and live music including Allen Toussaint, Irma Thomas, Amanda Shaw, Paul Sanchez and more presented by Chevron. French Quarter. Free. fqfi.org.

9 Downton Goes to the Races. Lady Grantham wins at New Orleans Fair Grounds. Live entertainment by BRW, dancing and celebration of WYES. Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, 1751 Gentilly Blvd. Patron party, 6:30pm; gala, 8pm. 486-5511. wyes.org. 9 Jefferson Parish Prayer Breakfast. Meet Astronaut Charles Duke. Landmark Hotel, 2601 Severn Ave, Metairie. 7-8:30am. $25. (985) 626-9582. liferesources.net. 9-12 French Quarter Festival. Live music, art shows, dance lessons, food and more. French Quarter. Free. fqfi.org. 10-11 Ella Rose & Femme Bridal Trunk Show. Bustles and Bows, 3230 Severn St, Ste B, Metairie. 780-7090.

April-May 2015 23

Inside Scoop 10-12 Annual Great Louisiana BirdFest. Multiple locations, including Manchac Swamp, Bogue Chitto River Reserve Habitats and Honey Island Swamp. 6261238. northlakenature.org. 10, 12 The Marriage of Figaro. Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St. April 10, 8pm; April 12, 2:30pm. 2870350. mahaliajacksontheater.com; neworleansopera.org. 10-May 31 On the Air: A Live Radio Broadcast Musical. Stage Door Canteen, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. Weekends, 1pm and 8pm showtimes. $30-$65. 528-1943. nationalww2museum.org. 11-May 24 Three Voices. Opening reception April 11, 6-8pm. The Garden District Gallery, 1332 Washington Ave. 891-3032. gardendistrictgallery.com. 12 Chamber Ensemble Performance. French Quarter Festival. Classical Music Stage, St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church, 1116 Chartres St. 11am-12:15pm. gynoyo.org. 14 Do you know how to prevent a stroke? Louise Dill, Department Head, Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit at St. Tammany Parish Hospital. Community Center at Christwood, 100 Christwood Blvd, Covington. 11:30am.-1pm. Reserve your seat, 292-1234 or jportmann@christwoodrc.com. 14-19 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. Starting at $25. 800-982-2787. broadwayinneworleans.com. 15 Emerson String Quartet. New Orleans Friends of Music. Dixon Hall, Tulane University, 6823 St. Charles Ave, 8pm. friendsofmusic.org. 15 Prix dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Elegance Luncheon. Hosted by Men and Women of Fashion to benefit the Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization. Hilton New 24

Inside New Orleans

Orleans Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St. Champagne reception, 10:30-11:30am; luncheon, 11:30am-2pm. $100. 522-0996. 16-18 Finley Trunk Show. FeBe, 474 Metairie Rd, Metairie. 835-5250. febeclothing.com. 17 Joey Arias sings Billie Holiday. Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St. 7:30pm. $35-$40. 528-3800. cacno.org. 17 Sentimental Journeys Benefit 2015. Fine wines, food, entertainment, live auction and more. Home of Danielle Kavanagh. Patron reception, 6:30-8pm; benefit, 8-12pm. $250; under 40, $150. 293-4723. longuevue.com. 18 Opus Ball. Full orchestral concert, seated dinner, dancing and live auction featuring Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and special guest Kermit Ruffins. The Sheraton Hotel New Orleans, Armstrong Ballroom, 500 Canal St. Black tie preferred. Patron party, 6pm; concert, 6:30pm; dinner and dancing, 7:30pm. lpomusic.com/opusball. 18 Show your Spirit Spring Gala. St. Martin’s Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Rd, Metairie. Patron party, 6:308pm; gala, 8-11pm. 736-9960. stmsaints.com/gala. 18-19 Angola Spring Rodeo and Craft Show. Angola State Prison, Angola. Gates open, 9am; rodeo, 2pm. (225) 655-2030. angolarodeo.com or stfrancisville.us. 19 Family Art Workshop. Learn figure drawing. 5-8 years old. 2-3pm. noma.org. 19 Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf. Roussel Hall, 6363 St. Charles Ave. 2:30pm. $10. lpomusic.com. 19 Pinch a Palooza. Crawfish, kids’ games, live music, art and more. Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant, 1713 Lake Ave, Metairie.11am-9:30pm. pinchapalooza.com. 19 Third Sunday Concert Series.

Inside Scoop Southeastern Louisiana University choir

Hosted by St. Timothy United Methodist

7-12pm; gala, 8-12pm. 861-6160.

performing a program of Bach. Christ

Church. 335 Asbury Dr., Mandeville.

auduboninstitute.org/ztd.

Episcopal Church, 120 S New Hampshire

Limited seating.

St, Covington. (985) 892-3177.

sttimothyumc.org/women.

20-26 Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

24-May 3 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage

1-24 Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist. Works on paper by the artist and his circle. Newcomb Art Gallery,

TPC Louisiana, 11001 Lapalco Blvd.

Festival. Presented by Shell. The Fair

Woldenberg Art Center, Tulane University,

342-3000. zurichgolfclassic.com.

Grounds, 1751 Gentilly Blvd.

6823 St. Charles Ave. 865-5328.

nojazzfest.com.

newcombeartgallery.tulane.edu.

21 Annual Friendraising Luncheon. Proceeds benefit Kingsley House.

25 Spring into Color Event. American

Kingsley House, 1600 Constance St.

Factory Direct Furniture Outlets,

11:30am-1pm. 523-6221 ext 127.

Mandeville, Baton Rouge and Long

kingsleyhouse.org.

Beach. 11am and 3pm.

23 Sweet Crude. Ogden After Hours.

afd-furniture.com.

Goldring Hall, Tulane University, 6823 St.

May

Charles Ave. 6-8pm. ogdenmuseum.org. 24 Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zoo to Do. Live music and

1 One Great Moment in Time. Jefferson

1-24 Three Voices. The Garden District Gallery, 1332 Washington Ave. 891-3032. gardendistrictgallery.com. 1-31 Michael Aram Spring Event. New Michael Aram styles, special pricing, gift with purchase. Arabella, 3902 Hwy 22, Mandeville. (985) 727-9787. arabellamandeville.com. 1-31 On the Air: A Live Radio Broadcast

entertainment. Audubon Zoo. 6:30-9pm.

Performing Arts Society. Teatro Wego,

auduboninstitute.org/ztd.

177 Sala Ave, Westwego. 7:30pm.

Musical. Stage Door Canteen, The

jpas.org.

National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine

24, 25 Robert Graham Trunk Show. Rubensteins, 102 St. Charles Ave. 581-

1 Whitney Zoo to Do 2015. Restaurants,

6666. rubensteinsneworleans.com.

cocktails, live music, auction and

24-25 Women of Hope Conference 2015.

raffle. Audubon Zoo. Patron party,

S. Weekends, 1pm and 8pm. $30-$65. 528-1943. nationalww2museum.org. 1-31 Tennessee Williams: The

Playwright and the Painter. Ogden

event to benefit nonprofit organizations in

accompanied by live jazz piano music.

Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St.

the community. givenola.org.

916 N. Peters St, Dutch Alley. 10am.

539-9609. ogdenmuseum.org. 2 Junior League of New Orleans Kitchen

8 Champagne Stroll on Magazine. Presented by the Magazine Street

Free. frenchmarket.org. 9 Limón Dance Company. Mahalia

Tour. Self-guided tour of 11 homes

Merchants Association to highlight

Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts,

celebrating a decade of beautiful kitchens

local shops, art and music. 5-9pm.

1419 Basin St. 8pm. nobadance.com.

in Metropolitan New Orleans. 10am-4pm. 891-5845. jlno.org. 2 St. Francisville and Jackson Garden

magazinestreet.com.

9 Mother’s Day Concert. Roussel Hall,

8-23 Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Based on

Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles Ave.

the 1988 film “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.”

3pm. gnoyo.org.

Stroll. Feliciana Master Gardeners of

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing

LSU Ag Center presents the stroll to

Arts, 325 Minor St, Kenner. 461-9475.

reserved seating, mimosas for mothers

visit five private gardens with Master

rivertowntheaters.com.

and buffet. Steamboat Natchez. 11:30am

Gardeners at each site. Proceeds to

9 Crawfish Mambo Cook-Off. New

benefit 4H scholarship, school gardens

Orleans’ best boil teams compete for

and other local charities. 1-5pm. $20.

a cash prize. Music by Honey Island

stfrancisvillespringstroll.org.

Swamp Band, Shamarr Allen, Bucktown

5 Cinco de Mayo at Carreta’s Grill. Live

10 Mother’s Day Brunch. Jazz band,

and 2:30pm. Adults, $73.50; children 6-12, $29; under 6, $10. 569-1401. steamboatnatchez.com. 15 Banu Gibson. Concerts in the Courtyard

All-Stars, Stooges Brass Band and

at The Historic New Orleans Collection,

music and specials. Metairie, Slidell,

Tank and the Bangas. University of New

sponsored by AOS. 533 Royal St.

Covington and Harahan locations.

Orleans Sandbar and Cove. 11am-7pm.

carretasgrillrestaurant.com.

280-2586. crawfishmambo.com.

5 GiveNOLA Day. Hosted by the Greater New Orleans Foundation. Online giving

9 Jazz Yoga at the Jazz Park Visitor Center. Yoga and meditation

6-8pm. Non-members, $10; members, free. hcno.org.

15 Cork in the Park. Wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, silent auction and live jazz

April-May 2015 27

Inside Scoop band to support City Park sponsored by Merrill Lynch and Republic Nation Distribution Co. Pavilion of the Two Sisters, Botanical Garden, City Park. 6-8pm. $70. neworleanscitypark.com. 15 Dark Side of the Moon: The Music of Pink Floyd. Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and Randy Jackson. Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St. 7:30pm. lpomusic.com. 16 Great Strides. Fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Audubon Park. Registration, 9am; walk, 10am. cff.org/ greatstrides. 17 Family Art Workshop. Learning architecture. 5-8 years old. 2-3pm. noma.org. 17 Spring Home & Courtyard Tour. Visit six homes and courtyards in the French Quarter and sip refreshments at Madame Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Legacy. 1850 House Museum Store, 523 St. Ann St. 2-6pm. General admission, $50 or $75 per couple; members, $40 or $60 per couple. 5233939. friendsofthecabildo.com. 20-23 New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. Wine dinners, Vinola!, Royal Street Stroll and grand tastings. nowfe.com. 22-24 Greek Festival. Greek food, music, culture and family activities. Hellenic Cultural Center, 1200 Robert E. Lee Blvd. 282-0259. greekfestnola.com. 23 Window Fashion Event. American Factory Direct Furniture Outlets. Mandeville, Baton Rouge and Long Beach. 11am and 3pm. afd-furniture.com. 30-31 New Orleans Oyster Festival. French Quarter. Free. neworleansoysterfestival.org.

Send your event information to scoop@insidepub.com to have it featured in an upcoming issue of Inside New Orleans. 28

Inside New Orleans

INside Story

by Michael Harold

MY FAVORITE MONTH has finally arrived: April. Not only was I born in the middle of the month, it also hosts one of my favorite holidays, April Fool’s Day. The air is warmer and begins to smell better. The

porta-potties like we do.” Smiling and swaying to the music, he said, “It’s all good, man.” I’m not a fan of that expression because it’s usually not all good. I suggested we retreat

beer-soaked Carnival beads and wet, decaying leaves are replaced with the fragrance of confederate jasmine, gardenia and freshly mowed grass. It’s just about perfect, except for those annoying live oak droppings that blanket our sidewalks and cars. Some call them “catkins”; I’ve even heard “pecan beards.” Personally, I have names for those irritating things that aren’t fit for

to the gospel tent for shelter, but thousands of others had the same Eureka! moment. Things took an ugly turn when I stepped on a blanket during a pungent diaper change, and I thought, “That’s it. If this were a game of Survivor, I would vote myself off the island.” The day was clearly reserved for members of the “People Who Love Jazz Fest Unconditionally” club.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly this publication. Let’s face it. Living in New Orleans requires an acceptance of the good, the bad and yes, even the ugly. To many New Orleanians and visitors, April means one thing, The Jazz and Heritage Festival. I’m a self-proclaimed member of a very small club, “People Who Like Jazz Fest.” Members are generally affable people who certainly don’t have an aversion to the festival but don’t necessarily love it either. I believe it’s possible to fall somewhere in the middle. I feel the same way about some beloved New Orleans foods, such as red beans and rice, king cake and doberge. Once in a while, the taste is sensational; other times it hits me as perfectly mediocre. If you’re at the Fairgrounds and want to witness a true, die-hard “Jazz Fester,” look for the last man standing during a thunderstorm. Last year, my friend Laurie and I attended what I renamed “The New Orleans Jazz and Cloudburst Festival.” I withstood every eye-burning raindrop and pretended to have the time of my life for the sake of my friend from Chicago. I even feigned nonchalance as I watched two silly teenage girls create a virtual amusement park by running, leaping and sliding in the mud, their straw hats and sun dresses covered fully in brown sludge. I turned to the college guy next to me who seemed mesmerized by the girls and asked, “Do they realize we’re standing in the middle of a racetrack? I mean, the horses who frolic here all year round don’t use

When the last weekend in April approaches, there is excitement in the air like no other. I can’t think of any other venue in the world that combines so many extraordinary choices in music, art and food. However, if truth be told, not all jazz music is pleasing to me or my ear. Especially the un-danceable genre. One year, I found myself surrounded by music connoisseurs nodding their heads in ecstasy over a fusion jazz band whose music made no sense to me. Tapping my feet and smiling awkwardly, I felt like Cousin Marilyn from the television series, The Munsters trying desperately to fit in with Herman, Lily and the rest of the gang, knowing I was completely out of my league among these jazz enthusiasts. After years of testing out various methods to obtain maximum Jazz Fest pleasure, I now have the system down to a fine science. I forego the taxi lines and pay to park in someone’s driveway (a win for me and for the homeowner). First thing, I scurry off to the soft-shell crab po-boy stand and savor every bite of that magical sandwich. Then, I meander around until I find the right music for me. But if the charming Margaret Orr of WDSU forecasts showers, I turn up the jazz music on my headphones and happily stare at the pounding rain from the comfort of my own kitchen window— Popeyes fried chicken on the counter, of course. Now, it’s all good. April-May 2015 29

The Boswell Sisters “World’s Foremost Harmony Singers” by Kate Brevard

Inside New Orleans

photos courtesy: THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION

MY MOTHER GREW UP during World War II, and the music from that era remained her favorite throughout her life. She proclaimed it “The best ever composed. The music had rhythm, not to mention you could hear the lyrics. I don’t understand this stuff you kids listen to today. It all went to hell in a hand basket when Elvis came on the scene.” Ah, the perpetual generational argument regarding music, fashion and pop culture. Regardless of her opinion of Elvis, some of my most cherished childhood memories are my mom teaching me the jitterbug to the tunes of Glen Miller and Duke Ellington. One of my favorites was the Andrew Sisters’ Rum and Coca-Cola. I particularly loved the syncopated rhythm of that exotic calypso styled-tune and the way the Andrew Sisters flipflopped the emphasis to the second syllables of the famous beverage, “Co-CAHH, Co-LAH.” I had no clue so many years ago—well, I had no idea until very recently—that the Andrews Sisters were imitators of a trio of harmony singers who preceded them by many years, the Boswell Sisters. Long before there were iPods or Mp3 players, there were vinyl records, radios and the musical legends, the Boswell Sisters—Martha, Connie and Vet. They catapulted from their Uptown New Orleans home to worldwide fame. Lauded the “World’s Foremost Harmony Singers” while working the vaudeville circuit in the early 1920s, the trio’s fresh, energizing and novel style has continued to influence modern singers. Maxine Andrews of the Andrews Sisters famously said, “The Boswell Sisters took the idea of jazz and did it vocally.” The “Boswell Sound,” as it has been named by music scholars, with its unpredictable harmonies and vocal mimicry of jazz instrumentation, not only made the sisters recording stars but paved the way for what we now know as mainstream jazz. Who were these women that musicologists still rave about and after whom the venerable Ella Fitzgerald patterned her own singing style, scat and all? I still love to jitterbug almost as much as I love a good mystery. So what better place than New Orleans, one of the most enigmatic cities in the world, to try to piece together the puzzle of the absent Boswell Sisters? 2014 marked the centenary of the Boswell family’s move to New Orleans from Alabama, which

made it the ideal year to celebrate their musical and historical significance. The anniversary inspired three projects: a major exhibition by The Historic New Orleans Collection, Shout, Sister, Shout! The Boswell Sisters of New Orleans, curated by Mark Cave and Aimee Everrett; a public television documentary by Joshua Tree Productions, The Boswell Sisters: Close Harmony; and The Boswell Legacy, a book detailing the Boswell family and the intimate but sometimes strained relationship between the three sisters, written by Kyla Titus, Vet’s granddaughter. The Historic New Orleans Collection has been the custodian of the Boswell Museum of Music Collection since 2011. Kyla, along with The Historic

New Orleans Collection, hosted a weekend-long celebration of the trio in fall 2014. The museum arranged a meeting between Kyla and me the evening of her final lecture. I lucked out and arrived just in time to enjoy New Orleans’ own Pfister Sisters, a threesome famous for their innovative jazz vocal harmonies. They performed a medley of Boswell Sisters’ favorites. I took a seat at the back of the packed room and observed as the exuberant crowd sang along with the trio, knowing every word of each song by heart. The space was positively electric and the spectators euphoric as they swayed back and forth to the rhythm. Kyla, who in a roomful of Boswell Sisters’ fans was more famous than Beyoncé, took the podium once the concert ended. Her lecture was a personal >>

The Boswell Sisters with entertainer Bing Crosby. April-May 2015 31

look at the sisters’ close relationship through family photos, audio recordings and film from the family’s private collection. After speaking about her famous family for over an hour, Ms. Titus attempted to end her talk. But the audience was having none of it. She graciously acquiesced and continued until a museum employee indicated that it was time to conclude. There was a groan from the crowd that grew louder, “Not yet, there’s still time. No, please, NO!” Well-mannered and diplomatic to the core, Kyla brought the convention to a peaceful close by promising to make the Boswell Sisters’ gathering a yearly event. Rousing cheers, applause and a standing ovation ensued. I began to respect what a powerful effect the Boswell Sisters had on their admirers and why they were still relevant today. Kyla would later tell me that many of the audience members were musicians and vocalists from around the world who had discovered the Boswell Sound and were inspired to recreate it in their own work. These artists from Spain, Israel, Australia, Ireland and elsewhere came to New Orleans for the Boswell Sisters’ celebration. Several of the musical and vocal groups had performed. Years of planning went into the four-day bash. Although Kyla had been going non-stop for the previous 72-96 hours, the elegant woman showed no signs of fatigue from her frenetic schedule when we spoke. The only giveaway to her harried agenda was the lock of blond hair that had fallen from her purposefully tousled updo and landed on her aristocratically high cheekbone. Kyla’s personality was as cheerful as one of her grandmother’s songs. 32

Inside New Orleans

photos courtesy: THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION

When Kyla’s mother died in 2010, Kyla became the steward of the Boswell Sisters’ legacy. Since being entrusted with their estate, Kyla’s life purpose has been single minded: to reintroduce the public to the Boswells’ pioneering artistry. “Women in jazz are not well represented; how many of the great jazz musicians working today are women? Men have dominated jazz, and this is one reason why the Boswell Sisters are not well known today. The sisters need to be recognized for their contribution. In my view, the Boswells should be right up there with Louis Armstrong, Louis Prima, Duke Ellington and all of those men who knew they were great musicians. The sisters took away the barrier between musician and vocalist and used their voices as instruments.” Kyla was Vet’s only granddaughter, and they were extremely close. Kyla explains how her grandmother, or “Nana,” as she called her, and Connie and Martha worked out the intricate harmonies for which they were known. “There are two things I want to say about the music, the harmony and working backwards. No one else ever did harmony like they did, let alone threepart harmony. The Boswells often switched parts, improvised and they did it intuitively, naturally. My grandmother was generally the high voice, and the other two were the low voices. She would say whoever hits that note first stays there because that’s where your voice belongs. And they had this really fluid thing going on between them. In terms of their arrangements … they started backwards, at the end of the songs and worked to the beginning.” The Boswell Sisters moved to New Orleans in 1914 from Birmingham. Their home was located at 3937 Camp Street, between Austerlitz and Constantinople, where it still stands. Their father, Alfred Clyde, “A.C.” Boswell took a job managing the local offices of the Fleischmann Company. Meldania, their forward-thinking and dynamic mother, oversaw the care and musical education of her four children, 14-year-old Alfred Clyde Jr., or “Clydie”; 9-year-old Martha; 8-year-old Constance, or “Connie”; and 3-year-old Helvetia, or “Vet.” Connie was unable to walk, a disability likely due to a childhood bout of polio. However, a go-cart accident was also alluded

to, and Connie cited both stories all her life. Meldania believed that her four children were musically gifted, and that’s why she relocated her young family to New Orleans. At the time of their move, the city was submerged in music, a cornucopia of blues, ragtime, gospel, classical and what would eventually become jazz. At the turn of the 20th century, New Orleans’ diverse cultural heritage, rich musical legacy and relatively fluid racial boundaries were the perfect ingredients for the birth of jazz. Kyla sees a parallel between the Boswells in New Orleans during its musical renaissance and Mozart in Vienna’s during its Classical period, “They were musical geniuses, the Mozarts of the Jazz Age. It was the right time and the right place, like Vienna in the Classical period. The Boswells had this innate talent and were super-human, musically. They did things that others had never done before. They set the standard for male, female, black, white, soloists as well as musicians.” The Boswell Sisters found themselves in the right place at the right time throughout their lives. Meldania hired a private tutor, Otto Finck, to >>

The sisters displayed musical talent from a young age. April-May 2015 33

Right: Vet’s granddaughter Kyla Titus. 34

Inside New Orleans

photo: MELISSA CARRIER

train her children in classical music. They learned to play the violin, piano, banjo, cello, sax, trombone and guitar. She invited musicians and artists to visit their home to play. Famous musicians at the time, such as Leon Roppolo, Nappy Lamare, Santo Pecora, Tony Parenti, Emmett Louis Hardy and Bix Beiderbecke, were regular visitors. In addition to their classical lessons, Meldania exposed her children to as much music as the city offered. Segregation was a reality of the times, but it didn’t stop Meldania. She took them to The Lyric Theatre for The Midnight Frolics, which were special “whites-only performances,” so they could see African-American performers. Kyla remembers her grandmother Vet telling her, “Anything that we could see and hear from a young age, momma would take us. When we got older and could drive, we would drive around and stop when we heard music.” Kyla continues, “Because of segregation, they couldn’t go into a black church or a black bar. So the Boswells would stand outside and listen. With New Orleans being a melting pot, they absorbed everything. That’s how they created something new out of what was all around them, the mix of their classical training, the blues and gospel music.” Because the Boswells had an unusually broad

musical education, they experimented with rhythm and were expert vocalists as well as accomplished jazz and classical instrumentalists. The sisters could transform straightforward tunes into complicated arrangements and orchestrations, with unexpected changes in tempo, key and phrasing. The Boswell Sisters began performing (with their brother Clydie before his death at 18 from flu-related complications) at parties, charity events, churches and school programs. By 1925, the Boswells had a substantial local and regional following and were playing regularly at the Young Men’s Gymnastic Club (now,

the New Orleans Athletic Club), the Saenger and the Orpheum. Their musical roles within the trio and their personalities and relationships with each other were becoming well defined. Martha was the oldest, and she played the piano, often composing her own pieces. Sadly, Martha was prone to dramatic mood shifts. Connie was the biggest vocal talent of the three and loved performing. She was unstoppable and succeeded in overcoming her paralysis to a degree. But outside of the spotlight, Connie could be the most divisive. She was insecure about her disability and had a deep-seated fear of being alone, which caused resentment within the group. Oddly, it was Connie’s handicap that was both the glue that held the Boswell Sisters together as well as a significant reason they split apart in 1936. Kyla talks about the complicated dynamics within the Boswell family. “Their momma pulled them together so they would be a unit, not just musically, but to support Connie. Connie’s disability forced the unity calculated to take care of her when momma was no longer there.” Vet, the youngest of the three girls, was steady, but could be pessimistic at times. She fought this tendency with humor and laughter, telling her granddaughter, “If I didn’t laugh, I’d cry.” Kyla says about her Nana, “She (Vet) was the master of imitation of instruments with her voice, but all three sisters did it. And she experienced pure, unadulterated joy when she sang with her sisters.” In March 1925, the Boswell Sisters made their first record for the Victor Talking Machine Company, I’m Gonna Cry (Cryin’ Blues), written by Martha and released under Connie’s name as the primary artist. In this performance,>> April-May 2015 35

Vet “scats.” Some scholars assert this is the first time an artist scats in a song, a point of contention among musical historians. The disagreement may never be resolved. Louis Armstrong’s 1926 recording of Heebie Jeebies is more often cited as the first song to employ scatting, which is one year later than the Boswells’ recording. Regardless, the sisters’ record sold out across the South. Connie’s performance led many people to believe that the Boswells were AfricanAmerican. “This was another thing that made the Boswell Sisters unique, because most of the female groups had these high-register voices. But theirs were low, deep and Southern. That’s why people thought they sounded black.” There was something else that set the Boswells apart from other jazz musicians of the time. They were white, proper Southern women. As the popularity of jazz grew, it was called the “devil’s music” by conventional white society and considered unacceptable in some circles. It was hard for some to reconcile that these three pretty young girls were playing and singing jazz music in the 1920s.

Inside New Orleans

It was while performing at the Orpheum in 1928 that the sisters got their big break. An agent from Chicago was in the audience and booked them on a grueling vaudeville tour through Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas. In 1929, after completing the gig, the sisters moved to Los Angeles. There, the threesome performed on radio programs, recorded radio transcriptions and dubbed music for “talking” pictures, a completely new medium. “The Boswell Sisters were trailblazers for their time,” says Kyla. “It started with records, then jumped right into radio. These were all technologies that were in their infancies. The Boswells were like the ‘tech-nerds’ of the past and pioneered these various new media.” While living in Los Angeles, the sisters worked with and became lifelong friends with Bing Crosby, with whom they would continue to record in the future. Although the Boswells were commercially successful on the West Coast, their manager urged them to move to the hub of radio and recording, New York City. Once in Manhattan, they became the most popular vocal act of 1930s America and dominated

photo courtesy: THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION

the airwaves from 1931 to 1936. They broadcast and recorded regularly for NBC and CBS radio networks. Their first Brunswick label recording, When I Take My Sugar to Tea, was a chart-topper and featured a house orchestra that included the Dorsey Brothers. The Boswells also counted such superstars as Tyrone Power, Mickey Rooney, Gracie Allen, George Burns and Bob Hope as friends and peers. “The Boswells helped develop the standard for American popular songs. Because of radio, they were among the first to do this on a large scale,” according to Kyla. By 1932, the Boswells were selling out every stage show they booked, making more than $3,000 per week. This was a fortune, especially during the Depression. The sisters also appeared in film, several movies and shorts. In the 1934 movie Transatlantic Merry Go Round, the Boswell Sisters performed the song Rock and Roll as themselves. This is often credited as the first use of the term in pop culture. In 1933, along with Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong, the sisters were part of the “jazz >>

April-May 2015 37

invasion” of Europe. The Boswells were so popular overseas that they were mobbed backstage by fans at London’s Palladium Theatre. Who knew that they would be the forerunners of the Beatles’ Invasion of America in 1964, some 31 years later? They remain popular overseas to this day. The Boswells’ last recording together was in February 1936, the same year that Kyla’s mother, Chica, was born. It was also the year that the Boswell Sisters officially broke up, after all three were married. The reasons for the dissolution were complicated. The social conventions of the times dictated that women were expected to give up their careers when they married and had children. Also, it cannot be whitewashed that the many arguments and misunderstandings over the years took an emotional toll on the sisters. I asked Mark Cave, one of the curators of the Boswell Sisters’ exhibition and an oral historian, for his opinion about the Boswell Sisters’ vanishing act. He explained, “The major factor that contributed to the Boswell Sisters being overlooked for so long was that there was no formal archive, museum or record of their work or existence. Everything was packed away in the New York home of a family member for so long. The history of the sisters was unavailable to researchers or historians. Things can quickly disappear into obscurity that way, especially in today’s world where things move very quickly.” Perhaps not the dramatic solution to the mystery I was hoping for, like the ending to an episode of Sherlock Holmes, but it made perfect sense. Mark added, “The cataloguing and ease of facility of a collection of important documents, such as the Boswells’ history and the accompanying items, is so important. This is because it 38

Inside New Orleans

photo courtesy: THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION

enables researchers to access them and then share it with the world.” Now, the pieces of the jigsaw puzzle are falling into place, and the Boswell Sisters’ disappearance from history was coming into focus. It’s estimated that more than 75 million Boswell Sisters’ records have been sold from their first record together in 1925 to the present day. Because there was no official accounting in the beginning of recording, there is no way to know the actual number. Only Connie continued to enjoy a successful solo career through the 1960s. The Boswells may have had a relatively brief career, but these “musicians’ musicians” influence on music, instrumentalists, vocal groups and solo artists cannot be denied. As Kyla explains, “The Boswell Sisters’ work branched off into a thousand different directions. It went to Wynona Judd, who is country, and to rock, and of course to jazz and to swing. Some people credit the Boswells with being the forerunners and founders of the swing movement; the musicians who established swing—the Dorsey Brothers, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Manny Klein, Bunny Berigan, Joe Venuti, Eddie Lang and others—all worked for the Boswells. These great musicians were

in the Boswells’ house orchestras and on the Boswells’ recordings. They were the Boswells’ arrangements. They had to have learned from them.” To make sure that the Boswells never fade from the public eye again, the exhibition, Shout, Sister, Shout! The Boswell Sisters of New Orleans is going on tour and will be in Lake Charles at The Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center from June 19, 2015, through September 12, 2015. Kyla is expanding her book, and she has already begun writing the next volume of the series, The New Orleans Edition. “I’m planning to put a lot of pictures from the family’s private collection in the book—when they were in New Orleans. New Orleans is such an important piece to this. The Boswell Sisters are the perfect representation of New Orleans because of the fleur-de-lis. You’ve got three petals with the fleur-de-lis. You have Connie in the center and Martha and Vet, on either side, supporting her.” We’ve Got to Put That Sun Back in the Sky was one of the Boswell Sisters’ biggest hits. Today’s world is as complicated and uncertain as it was back in the 1930s. Kyla would like to see the Boswells’ music become part of the iconography of today’s popular culture because of its inspiring and joyful message. “The 21st century needs the Boswell Sisters. Music is the universal language; we communicate with music; music makes the world go around. Now, you have music that’s getting louder and harsher. Even some jazz, like the brass band—it’s loud. But, if you add female singers to the brass band, you suddenly have something that’s softer and more harmonious. Harmony. Harmony is people communicating and working together. We need harmony and balance today. It speaks to something deeper and transcends the music.”

by Leah Draffen

The Ticket to Heritage Above: Heritage School of Music students playing at the 2014 Jazz & Heritage Festival. Below: A rendering of the completed George and Joyce Wein Jazz and Heritage Center.

ON A GIVEN SATURDAY, the melodies of young voices and instruments echo against the wood floors of the George and Joyce Wein Jazz and Heritage Center on North Rampart Street. Music from the students of The Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music saturates the halls and rooms of the center, leaving you breathless. The landmark building that is now home to the center and the school was purchased in 2008 by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation in hopes of it becoming the resting place for the school as well

Inside New Orleans

The Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music

as the harbor for jazz preservation in the community. Originally built in the 1870s for residential use, for decades it was a funeral home for the Tremé neighborhood. Its jazz heritage began when the main hall of the building became the starting line for jazz funeral processions. Renovations to restore the building and preserve its historic integrity were completed in late 2014; the center was named for George Wein and his late wife, Joyce, who helped launch the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 1970. Derek Douget, the music school’s program director and woodwind educator, says, “We finished our last semester at Dillard University by hosting our holiday show at the new performance space for the first time.” The Heritage School of Music offers free group lessons for students 10 to 17 years old in brass, woodwinds, piano, bass, drums, guitar and voice, plus music theory. A new initiative, The Jazz & Heritage All-City Big Band, is a large-format jazz ensemble. Also new is The Jazz & Heritage Brass Band, a New Orleans-style second-line band for young musicians.

photo: KIM WELSH / NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FOUNDATION

IN Rhythm

The school was founded in 1990 by nationally known saxophonist Edward “Kidd” Jordan and named in honor of Don “Moose” Jamison, jazz authority, disc jockey and foundation board member. Kidd wanted to build a solid music foundation for young musicians; he continues to teach at the school. When I walked into his classroom, two students were fixated on Kidd playing his horn. The three were filled with smiles as I asked one student what he loved about the school. “It’s really good,” he says. “I learn quite a bit.” Kidd grinned and began to laugh as he stopped playing to say it was the transfer of knowledge that’s the hard part. For the past 20 years, classes have been held on Saturdays. “Most of the students are really eager to play,” Derek says. “At the end of Saturday, it has always been a good day.” The school is using the new facility as much as possible by adding the new bands and weekday classes. “It has been an awesome transition so far,” says Jessica Greenberg, Heritage School of Music assistant. “I’m lucky to have a small hand in it and see some of New Orleans’ well-known musicians give up their time to teach.” Musicians such as Leah Chase, Michael Pellera, Peter Harris, Don Vappie, Leon Brown, Ricky Sebastian and Geoff Clapp offer their time and energy to give back to the next generation of jazz musicians. A vocal student of four years lit up with excitement while sharing her experience at the school. “The faculty definitely cares about us and wants us to grow into better singers, performers and artists,” she smiles. “They don’t just hand us music and tell us to learn it. We learn the music, but also who wrote it and the history behind it.” Her vocal coach Leah Chase, daughter of wellknown New Orleans restauranteur Leah Chase, inspires her and the other 25 to 30 vocal students. Rose Davis, who assists Leah, loves working with the students and watching them grow in this new environment. “It’s great to see what the students and teachers can get out of this new space. It’s our space, and the kids are taking pride in it.”

The school currently has 110 students learning jazz heritage for free. It is fully funded through the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. According to Scott Aiges, the foundation’s director of programs, marketing and communications, most of the funding comes from proceeds of the annual Jazz & Heritage Gala and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell, along with grants and donations from various foundations, government agencies and private donors. In other words, your Jazz Fest ticket not only allows you to enjoy music, it preserves the music and heritage for generations to come. “It goes back into the community for the next generation,” Jessica says. “It’s about keeping the history alive and exposing the kids to it, but also giving them the best musical instruction.” The school has produced wellknown musicians, including Shamarr Allen, Sammie “Big Sam” Williams and Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. Last year’s graduating class encompassed students heading to Julliard and the Berklee School of Music to further their musical careers. “This school has inspired me so much that music is what I want to do with my life,” says one passionate student. “I want to be a singer, and if I can’t be a singer, I want to be a vocal coach like Ms. Leah. She has inspired me so much,” a vocal student says. “If it’s your hobby and your craft and it’s all you really think about doing, nothing should really scare you or stop you from wanting to do it.” Students share their talents yearly at the Jazz & Heritage Festival. This year, you can catch the school performing on Sunday, April 26. Listen to the next generation of New Orleans musicians and be proud of what’s to come. They’re fearless. For more information on the Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, visit jazzandheritage.org. The 17th Annual Jazz & Heritage Gala will be on Thursday, April 23 and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell April 24 – May 3. April-May 2015 41

At the Table

by Tom Fitzmorris

THE FESTIVAL SEASON v

NEW ORLEANS EATING 42

Inside New Orleans

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

THE FORCES THAT MAKE US get to work on backed-up projects, to lose a few pounds by way of our New Year and Lenten resolutions and to address all those other important matters that stalled out during the long New Orleans holiday season—all those efforts have worked pretty well for you, right? Good job! But I know what you’re thinking on that first weekend when the interminable wet chill of February and March give way to sunshine and other indications of springtime. You and a half-million other people (that is not an exaggerated number, by the way) need a break. And what do you know? It’s just about French Quarter Festival time! Yay! And that means it’s not long until we get our first sunburn at the Jazz Festival. And really eat and drink too much at the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. It all takes us right up to summer! What a great place to live! The Festival Season has enough years in the making to be called a tradition, with a culinary style all its own. Its menu is more rustic and home-style than that of any other time of year. When do you eat more jambalaya? Hot sausage? Meat pies? Pralines? Crawfish bread? The three major festivals set the standards and the spirit. Between those big weekends, dozens of smaller festivals blossom, full of music, food and drink, celebrating every Louisiana ingredient and flavor. Some are popular enough to support several separate

festivals. I don’t even want to think of how many crawfish, shrimp, gumbo, and oyster festivals there are. But this is certain: if you need to go to a food festival anytime from late March until the Fourth of July, you will not have to search hard to find a good one. With that in mind, I present here a list of the 25 best things to eat during the Festival Season. This is an instant argument—there’s so much great eating at the festivals that the larger ones have 50 or more not-to-be missed treats each. So argue with me if we cross paths in front of Muriel’s crawfish-and-goat-cheesecrepes stand at the French Quarter Festival. The New Orleans Wine and Food Experience comes as the weather shifts unambiguously from spring into summer. Most of it is indoors, and although the dress is quite casual, the events have much more formality than one finds at the French Quarter Festival or the Jazz Festival. NOWF&E begins on the Wednesday before Memorial Day with wine dinners at around 40 restaurants around town. Not many cities in the world can claim to have so much action on a single night. Choosing which one to attend is a matter of knowing where your wine interests lie and what kind of food and environment you prefer. There’s also a certain crapshoot aspect to the selection. I usually wait until most dinners are sold out, then go to a sleeper. In more than 20 years of that approach, I’ve never attended a disaster. >>

April-May 2015 43

The second day of NOWF&E is the Royal Street Stroll, long the most popular and least expensive of the events. In recent years, changes in the format of the Stroll have made it much less good than it once was. The antique shops and art galleries that used to host the winemakers and serve food are not participating as widely as before. I’m hoping for some major changes in the coming years. Friday and Saturday are NOWF&E’s Grand Tastings, at which dozens of chefs and hundreds of wines are there for the sampling. A controversy over whether the NOWF&E Grand Tastings have been diluted by the Vinola Tasting on Thursday is now a foregone conclusion. For the $175 ticket, Vinola presents the best wines from the participating wineries. These used to show up at the Grand Tastings, and their absence makes the Grand Tastings less grand. On the other hand, given that the Grand Tastings are always a packed house and that the

Inside New Orleans

money goes to a variety of charities obviates that cavil. Bottom line: The New Orleans Wine and Food Experience is still the premier wine and food event of the entire year in New Orleans. 25 Best Festival Dishes … … At The French Quarter Festival (FQF) and New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (JazzFest). Some of the makers of the dishes are on hand at both festivals. Ranked in descending order of goodness. 1. Pheasant, Quail and Andouille Gumbo. Prejean’s, Lafayette. This exotic combination of ingredients from a big restaurant in Cajun country would be a great gumbo even if were made with more everyday meats. Dark roux, spicy, meaty and generous. JazzFest. 2. Blackened Shrimp Poor Boy with Pickled Pepper Relish. Red Fish Grill. This is a real zinger of a flavor, rivaled only by

the barbecue oyster dish that the Red Fish Grill guys serve at the Jazz Festival. That’s fried oysters with a hot-sauce butter and blue cheese. FQF, JazzFest. 3. Prime Beef Debris Poor Boy. Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse & Bourbon House. Dickie Brennan serves USDA Prime beef, but even so it shreds when it’s sliced, and those shreds are what makes the most opulent roast beef poor boy imaginable. As if that weren’t enough, they come back with barbecue shrimp in the end of a poor boy loaf. This is the best one-two combo at the French Quarter Festival. FQF. 4. Fried Soft-shell Crab Poor Boy. Galley Seafood Restaurant. It takes Vicki and Dennis Patania months to accumulate the number of soft-shell crabs they need to satisfy the demand at the Jazz Festival. It’s both the goodness of the eating and the oddity of having a whole crab on a poor boy that attracts. JazzFest. 5. Cochon De Lait Po-boy. Love at

First Bite. Sporting one of the longest lines at the two festivals where it’s sold, this great sandwich comes from the same people who operate the excellent Walker’s Barbecue in New Orleans East. FQF, JazzFest. 6. Goat Cheese and Crawfish Crepes, Shrimp with Eggplant Stuffing. Muriel’s Jackson Square. Neither of these sound anywhere near as good as they actually are—the crepes, especially. They serve them individually, but I’d get the combo. FQF. 7. Cajun Jambalaya. Catering Unlimited. This is the better of the two jambalayas at the Jazz Fest, made in the brown Cajun style, spicy and smoky, with chicken and sausage. JazzFest. 8. Grilled Chicken Livers with Pepper Jelly Sauce, Crowder Peas, Okra. Praline Connection. If there’s a better way to prepare chicken livers, I haven’t tasted it. Crowder peas are uncommon in restaurants, but may be the best-tasting bean of them all. FQF, JazzFest. >>

April-May 2015 45

9. Tagine of Lamb (Spicy Stew), Merguez (Grilled Lamb Sausage). Jamila’s Café. Moncef and Jamila Sbaa are from Tunisia, and they cook the dishes of their homeland. It’s Mediterranean blended with French touches. The merguez is house-made of veal and lamb. It’s at least as good as any other sausage at the Jazz Festival. Which is saying something. JazzFest. 10. New Orleans Bread Pudding in Whiskey Sauce. Desire Oyster Bar. Desire has been part of the French Quarter Festival since the first year, always serving a stupendous bread pudding, one of the lightest and best in my experience—and bread pudding is my favorite dessert. FQF. 11. Crawfish and Shrimp with Lobster Sauce. Trey Yuen. Trey Yuen used to have a restaurant across the street from Jackson Square, which is how they became part of the French Quarter Festival. They have served this dish—as well as egg rolls and vegetable lo mein, separate or as a combo—since the FQF’s first year. FQF. 12. Creole Hot Sausage Poor Boy. Vaucresson Sausage Co. It wouldn’t be the French Quarter Festival for me without this orangetinged, spicy, house-made sausage, made by Vance Vaucresson and his family for decades and a standard of soul-food restaurants at least that long. FQF, JazzFest. 13. Boudin. Papa Ninety Catering. Boudin was little known in New Orleans when the Jazz Festival turned it into a phenomenon. Several vendors have come and gone, but this one is the best of them all. JazzFest. 14. Baked Alaska with Chocolate Sauce. Antoine’s. The first time I heard that Antoine’s was 46

Inside New Orleans

serving baked Alaska—a ball of ice cream inside a bigger ball of meringue, accented with chocolate fudge sauce—I wondered how they’d prepare them and keep them from melting. Answer: they run them over from the restaurant, three blocks away. FQF. 15. Curry Chicken Pattie, Jerk Chicken, Rice & Veggies. Bennachin Restaurant. Bennachin is a real African restaurant, its owners coming from Gambia. “Bennachin” is what they call jambalaya over there, where the dish was invented. This dish incorporates some Caribbean flavor, too. FQF, JazzFest. 16. Crawfish Monica. Kajun Kettle Foods. This is the genuine and original version of the much-copied Crawfish Monica, made by Monica Hilzim and hubby Pete. Crawfish, cream, pasta, Creole seasoning. Simple, very good. JazzFest. 17. Crawfish Sack, Oyster Patties, Crawfish Beignets. Patton’s Caterers. Patton’s in Slidell has been in and out of the restaurant business for years. At some point in the 1980s, they came up with these beggar’s purses (made from a crepe), filled them with crawfish étouffée and filled out the plate with the oyster stew inside a puff pastry. The crawfish beignets are not sweet. JazzFest. 18. Alligator Sauce Piquante, Shrimp and Okra Gumbo. Fireman Mike’s Kitchen. Fireman Mike is indeed a first responder. Before that, he worked in a number of restaurants, notably Bozo’s. His okra and seafood gumbo is a fine sampling of that dish. JazzFest. 19. Spinach Artichoke Casserole, Seafood Au Gratin, Sweet Potato Pone. Ten Talents Catering. The three items in this combo sound just offbeat enough to catch one’s

attention, and they live up to this interest. A favorite back to earliest days of JazzFest. JazzFest. 20. Lemon Ice, Strawberry Ice, Spumoni, Cannoli, Fig and Sesame Cookies. Angelo Brocato’s. We hardly have to mention the source of all this gelato, which has been made with zero variability for more than 110 years at Angelo Brocato’s matchless Sicilian ice cream parlor. JazzFest. 21. Hot Boiled Crawfish. Rouses. One of the most wonderful coincidences on the food calendar is that the Festival Season and the crawfish season coincide. Mudbugs peak reliably at Jazz Festival, but they’re pretty darn good at the French Quarter Festival, too. Rouses serves them hot—another great touch. FQF. 22. Cajun Meat Pies. Ted’s Frostop/Mrs. Wheat’s Meat Pies. The first big star of local food festivals is this specialty from Natchitoches. A half-moon-shaped turnover filled with spicy ground beef, it’s hard to pass up, even when you’re full. FQF, Jazz Fest. 23. Crawfish Bread, Shrimp Bread, Sausage-Jalapeno Bread. Panorama Foods, Marksville. All these are made more or less the same way: the topping gets spread with a lot of cheese over half of a semi-baked French bread loaf. Filling and better than it sounds. JazzFest. 24. Turtle Soup. Court Of Two Sisters. One of the best turtle soups around, made with a dark roux, real turtle meat and a tinge of sherry. Oldstyle. FQF. 25. Crawfish Strudel. Cottage Catering. Pastry chef John Caluda has made the crawfish strudel at the Jazz Festival for many years. It’s so delicate that it almost seems out of place for the venue. JazzFest. April-May 2015 47

by Leah Draffen

LISTENING ROOMS ARE PLACES that music lovers gather to enjoy life and original music. Lynn Drury’s voice and songs are what listening rooms are made for. Her ability to softly tell a story or belt out an emotion draws listeners in, converting them to fans quickly. My first experience listening to Lynn was at Chickie Wah Wah. That night, she was song swapping with Paul Sanchez. The two opened with Angel from Montgomery before going into their personal hits. Lynn’s voice fits Bonnie Raitt songs perfectly. To give your imagination a whirl, mix Bonnie Raitt’s smooth soul and Janis Joplin’s rough quake. You hear it? Yes, it’s hard to explain, but once you’ve heard it, you’ll know Lynn. Her sound is explained as “Mississippi grit, New Orleans groove.” It all makes perfect sense when you hear a song like Tell Me. With acoustic guitar and a consistent back beat, you’d think it was a country song, but once Lynn hits the chorus, you get the groove. “Tell me, tell me how, how can I get off you, when my mind is so set. My-my-my mind is so set.” After hearing it once, it will be stuck in your head for days. No kidding. Lynn’s country side started at her birthplace in Yazoo City, Mississippi. As a toddler, she moved with her parents and siblings to Carriere, Mississippi. Lynn’s father trained quarter horses. At the age of 3, Lynn was riding. “We would ride at least 45 minutes,” Lynn says. “We spent weekends traveling to rodeos, horse shows and competing.” Lynn’s riding days ended once she reached college, but the lessons her dad taught her applied to life. Down the Road, a crowd favorite of Lynn’s, was written after her father passed in 2003. Lynn says that her father would sell their family’s horses, explaining to her and her siblings that there was always a better horse down the road. “Daddy always said, ‘Don’t get too attached, ’cause you never do know when somebody come along and snatch him up, snatch him up. There’s a

photos: CEDRIC ELLSWORTH

IN Rhythm

Inside New Orleans

better one down the road.’” Lynn used his words to write the gritty and catchy song filled with strums and strong lines. The song has become an anthem to many single women. While watching her perform it at Chickie Wah Wah, I felt left out for not knowing the words, but after the second verse, I was singing with the audience. Ladies and men alike sang the chorus—“better one, better one down the road mhmmm.” Lynn played the clarinet in junior high and was drum major in high school, but, like with riding, she quit when she went to

The dynamic of her album, including Tell Me, is an honest representation of what you’ll hear at one of Lynn’s shows. It’s relatable, feel-good music even though some songs deal with heavy topics. The title cut Come to My House is a loud, attention-grabbing number that Lynn shares with her fun side. “Rocking just like that windy shutter, rocking just like that windy shutter. You don’t have to ask, just come to my house.” Once again, it mixes New Orleans groove, a little country and a lot of beat and guitar. Since releasing

Lynn Drury college. “While in college, I took a music class and thought, ‘I should be playing music,’” Lynn explains. “Music has always been in my life, though. I fell in love with music when I was really little. I was always singing. I don’t remember when I didn’t sing.” After college, Lynn moved to New Orleans. That’s when her New Orleans groove seeped in. She picked up the guitar for the first time at 25. From there, it was natural. Writing followed as she learned the guitar. “My passion is writing,” Lynn says. By 2001, she released her first album. That first album, like the next six, was filled with original songs. “I’m an observer, I think. I get inspiration from what’s around me, but it also helps if I’m breaking up with someone,” she grins. Her seventh album, with 12 original songs, was released in 2014. Lynn thanked CSB Roxy Music, the Threadhead Foundation, Seran Williams and Rob Brown for their support on the album. It is filled with grit and groove and even a little reggae. While the album was being recorded at Independence Street, producer John Porter said the lyrics of I Know You Want Me were made for a reggae song. The song lends itself to an island funk that is unexpected, but totally rewarding.

Rocking Like That Windy Shutter

the album, Lynn is trying to lay back and enjoy the path. “I’m learning to relax a little bit, and now things are moving,” Lynn says. “It’s the opposite of what you’d think would happen, but I’ve been very fortunate.” Lynn’s vision that she once thought was “down the road” is now a reality. “I get to play music. I pinch myself sometimes because this is what I envisioned. Now I’m saying maybe I should have thought of a better vision,” she laughs. Lynn enjoys playing at listening rooms, festivals and other music spots around New Orleans, but hopes to start traveling more this summer after the spring festivals end. So now you know—when Lynn Drury asks you to come to her house (or show), prepare to rock just like that windy shutter. Sing along to Lynn’s Down the Road, Come to My House or Tell Me on Big River Stage at the French Quarter Festival on April 10. Hear her April 24 playing with Paul Sanchez & Minimum Rage at the Jazz and Heritage Festival. On April 29, Lynn will be playing 5-6pm at Lafayette Square for the Youth Leadership Council’s Wednesday at the Square concert series. For an updated schedule of her performances, visit lynndrury.com. April-May 2015 49

by Lauren Murphy

LIKE THE CITY ITSELF, Kingsley House is known for its rich history and heart. Founded in 1896, it stands as the oldest settlement house in the South, a New Orleans institution whose great works have helped shaped the city. Reverend Beverly Warner started Kingsley House as a resource for the Irish and German immigrants who arrived on New Orleans’ shore at the end of the 19th century, providing them with a place to overcome the various barriers they faced as they started life in a new country. Over the years, it has grown and adapted to meet the changing needs of the community. In the first half of the century, Kingsley House had a hand in everything from eradicating yellow fever to forming the Anti-Tuberculosis League. After another metamorphosis, it focused on 6th Annual Friendraising Luncheon education, starting Tuesday, April 21, 2015 the first kindergarten 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the state and providing classes to At Kingsley House the visually impaired, 1600 Constance Street which later evolved into Lighthouse for Programming by Kingsley House children and seniors. the Blind. The first integrated swimming Everyone interested is invited to come and learn pool in the city lies more about Kingsley House and its groundbreaking on its campus, and work. There is no ticket price for the luncheon. it was the incubator Guests will be asked to make a donation during the for the New event. For more information, or to RSVP, please call Orleans Recreation 523-6221, ext. 127. Department,

Wishes

Inside New Orleans

providing healthy activities for the city’s youth. Kingsley House has remained on the forefront of innovation and progress, wanting to push the community forward and foster understanding in people of all backgrounds. Today, Kingsley House continues to provide educational resources for families through programs like Headstart, which prepares preschool-age children for later academic success, and Educare New Orleans, an early childhood education program serving at-risk youth. The Adult Services Program provides day care for senior citizens and medically fragile adults, giving them the proper supervision they need to thrive. Counseling programs for at-risk young adults and their families provide direction and avenues of communication to improve their futures. The Magic Johnson Community Empowerment Center offers free access to computers and TVs, and nutrition programs promote healthy lifestyles. Some of Kingsley House’s biggest impact comes from its After-School Care and Summer Camps, which combines education support, through tutoring and mentoring services, with fun, through productive creative arts programs. The comprehensive array of nationally accredited and state-certified programs provides necessary support to all ages and drives the community forward, improving the lives of 7,000 people from throughout Southeast Louisiana annually. Since Kingsley House’s start, it has provided services to nearly half a million people, with undeniable results, giving families the resources they need to reach their full potential and be happy, healthy, productive members of the community.

photos: KIRA HORVATH & MOMENTA WORKSHOPS

Kingsley House

Educating children, strengthening families and building community.

ACTIVITIES Horseback Riding Swimming Ropes Course Tennis Canoeing Golf Basketball Gymnastics Dance Archery Arts & Crafts Outdoor Living Campfire Fun Rope Swing Volleyball Soccer Riflery Aerobics Chorus & Drama Trip Day Counselors-In-Training Climbing Tower River Water Blob Cheerleading Flag Twirling Sports Riverview Camp for Girls is a community where your daughters grow in confidence and maturity - all while having a great time in a safe, carefree and wholesome environment. Susan and Larry Hooks, Owners and Directors • For more information, call (800) 882-0722. Riverview Camp for Girls, P.O. Box 299, Mentone, AL 35984 www.riverviewcamp.com

LONG-TERM SESSSIONS 1st Session: June 10-June 22 2nd Session: June 24-July 6 3rd Session: July 8-July 20 4th Session: July 22-August 3 SHORT-TERM SESSIONS M Session: June 3-June 8 A Session: June 10-June 15 B Session: June 17-June 22 C Session: June 24-June 29 D Session: July 1-July 6 E Session: July 22- July 27 F Session: July 29-August 3

An extraordinary Bradley Sabin commissioned installation of dogwood blossoms is the highlight of the grand dining room. 52

Inside New Orleans

ELLY LANE GREW UP on the same Uptown street where she now lives with her husband, Merritt, and their three children. The house, not far from the streetcar tracks of St. Charles Avenue, was perfect for them. “We just loved the center-hall feel of the house and all the windows and light,” says Elly. The house’s décor is anchored by beautiful and timeless French antiques, but what truly sets the Lanes’ home apart is the couple’s extensive collection of art. Each room is brought to life with color and a contemporary vibe emitted by modern art. Elly says, “I love color, and I love art.” This bright and happy home has both. The home’s opulent center-hall entry is flooded with natural light. The picturesque staircase, leaded-glass windows and dark hardwood floors provide the beautiful classic elements you’d expect from a grand Uptown home. A graceful 19th century provincial wrought iron, toile and crystal chandelier from Moss Antiques hangs in welcome, and a luminous Wayne Amedee canvas adds to the reflective beauty of the magnificent center hall. A wonderful French antique settee is covered in an unexpected turquoise and black faille. The vivid

BrightandHappy Home

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

colors in Elly’s fabric choice, coupled with a vibrant painting by Nicole Charbonnet, again echo the mix and balance of timeless elegance with a playful contemporary sense. Around every corner is the surprise of another contemporary art detail. A Paul Tarver canvas is featured in an alcove off the center hall atop a stately empire style antique chest with a grey marble top. A very special Allison Stewart, this issue’s cover artist, is the centerpiece of the tiny jewel of a powder room, while a pair of wonderful Jean Geraci canvases grace the hall leading to the

dining room. The grand-scale dining room features by Anne Honeywell a large antique French dining table and chairs. Poised above the table is a spectacular Atelier Petitot copper and glass French chandelier from Uptowner Antiques. Two custom-made hostess chairs are covered in a sophisticated teal green and gold Fortuny fabric. Billows of brown silk faille with velvet-appliqued silk ribbon frame the massive Above: A luminous windows. An imposing Oushak rug in muted tones Wayne Amedee anchors the space. The extraordinary Bradley Sabin- canvas adds to the commissioned art installation on the fireplace is reflective beauty of the the highlight of this room. Hundreds of ceramic >> magnificent center hall. April-May 2015 53

dogwood blossoms, each individually sculpted and hand-painted, are secured to the wall, creating a floating affect. “We had dogwood trees at our wedding, so these blossoms were a sentimental choice for Bradley to create for us,” says Elly. The formal living room boasts windows on both sides of the room, inviting an abundance of natural light. Built-in bookcases on alcove walls provide the perfect recess for the babygrand piano. A pair of luxurious sofas in cut velvet from Donghia flank the fireplace, and a gilt wood cocktail table rests on the gorgeous muted tones of an Oushak rug. Gorgeous silk damask yellow and silver drapes open to showcase a wonderful Bradley Sabin sculpture atop an antique drop-leaf table. Throughout the process of making the house their own, the Lanes’ worked with interior designer Melissa Rufty of MMR Interiors. “Every room has an energy to it— this house is filled with a happy and positive energy—like the family who lives here. I feel like I have captured their spirit in the décor,” says Rufty. For the redesign of the kitchen and breakfast room, Elly turned to architectural designer Marie Palumbo of M.A. Palumbo Studio. “We worked together and were able to come up with a great design that tied into the rest of their beautiful home. Elly has always been one to make creative decisions, and because of that, she was able to achieve a unique and timeless kitchen/breakfast room renovation,” says Palumbo. The inspiration for both the kitchen and breakfast room came from the custom glass and marble mosaic backsplash from Stafford Tile & Stone. Peggy Stafford customized the layout to emphasize a central focus on the 54

Inside New Orleans

A custom glass and marble mosaic backsplash from Stafford Tile & Stone served as inspiration for the kitchen and

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

breakfast room.

beautiful New Ravenna Mosaics tiles, which add a vibrant pop of color in the wonderfully classic white-on-white kitchen. The same backsplash was repeated in the butler’s pantry. “We kept the kitchen design simple yet dramatic with the casework and marble countertops. The custom cabinets utilized the space vertically to maximize the volume,” explains Palumbo. She also designed a full ladder-andrail system to access the upper cabinets, which adds another Old World element to the kitchen.

Acrylic, low-profile bar stools complement the space and continue the perfect balance of traditional and modern design. The kitchen is washed in multiple layers of light, with recessed cans, under-cabinet task lights and two glass pendants that accentuate the exquisite center island of Calcutta marble. The oval white lacquered modern pedestal breakfast room table was custom made by MMR Interiors. It is surrounded by classic Saarinen chairs that are upholstered in sumptuous turquoise leather to >> April-May 2015 55

repeat the colors of the mosaic tile. A Galbraith and Paul fabric pendant light illuminates the table. In stark contrast to the crisp white kitchen, the casework in the sunken breakfast area is done in a dark stain, which lends a sophisticated aspect to the mix. The most recent renovation has totally changed the way this family of five is using their home. A sunroom that was basically all windows has been transformed into a garden family room. “We took a risk by closing a wall of windows, but they were

Top: In the recently completed garden family room, the large Gaither Pope canvas inspired the room’s colorful décor. Above: A Paul Tarver canvas sits above an empire-style antique chest with a grey marble top.

Sabin sculpture is showcased atop a drop-leaf antique table in the living room.

Inside New Orleans

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Right: A wonderful Bradley

not using this part of the house. They needed more seating and entertaining space, and by creating this new room, we accomplished just that,” says Rufty. “And the room actually feels much bigger.” The room remains washed in natural light from the French doors overlooking the pool, as well as from the windows that face the front of the house, but the newly added wall, which is finished with a raised paneled detail to add interest, provides a more private setting for the room. On that wall is a Gaither Pope painting, which served as inspiration for the room’s colorful décor. Surrounding a vintage glass and Lucite coffee table are two custom chesterfield sofas adorned with a variety of vibrant pillows. A pair of wonderfully inviting club chairs in a turquoise Peter Dunham stripe swivel to allow a flow of conversation from both directions. A vintage brass lamp lights up an antique chest from Dunne and Sonnier. Built-in cabinets and bookshelves provide the perfect setting for the television, books and collectibles. A BeeLine Home hourglass game table from Malachite is ready for play with the spark of fuchsia-covered chairs. Adding yet another layer of cool sophistication to an already refined room, a luscious Fifi Laughlin blue- >> April-May 2015 57

grey lamp sits atop a hand-painted console. “We used to never go into that room, and now we spend so much time in there. Relaxing, watching TV, entertaining—we just love this new use of the space. We are very happy we did it,” says Elly. Happy. A happy and colorful home for five.

Top: The Lanes’ backyard oasis is an extension of their home’s living and entertaining space. Right: The garden family room’s French doors open onto the home’s outdoor living space. Far right: The

outdoor fireplace is host to a cozy seating area with chair cushions covered in Trina Turk fabric. 58

Inside New Orleans

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

recently completed

Outdoor Living

Water Features

THE QUIET NOISE OF A SECLUDED STREAM or soft waves brushing against a shore, the sound of water is nothing short of relaxing. Why not bring the calming sounds into your outdoor space? Whether designed to blend into the landscape naturally or to create a striking focal point, a water feature can enhance the environment of your outdoor living spaces. When coupled with lush, multilevel gardens and carefully focused lighting, they can create an oasis to be enjoyed every day. When designing your space, choose a fountain that will complement the style and feeling of your home. A formal garden surrounding a small pool and standing fountain might be appropriate, or perhaps a wallmounted fixture pouring into a basin is more fitting. The designs of the structures and the basins available are as varied as the materials now used in creating them. Anna Papp of Outdoor Living Center suggests you consider the size of the area where a fountain or water feature will be placed and the way that space will be used when considering your furniture and accessories for the area. Will the fountain enhance a passage on the way to your front door, or will you gather around it with friends and cocktails on a beautiful spring evening? Might it be the perfect way to anchor a seating area? An added benefit of incorporating water into the environment is the soothing sounds it creates. This is another area where the location should be considered when making the choice of what works best. A small ripple of sound might create enough diversion to the ambient sound of your neighborhood. If a more robust noise is required, consider a rush of water to make an impact. If the water falls onto rocks, even better. Many homeowners have found that adding a water feature of some kind, even a birdbath with its reflections, can add to the enjoyment of their porch, patio or yard. It is a beautiful way to add an unexpected element to your property! Adding a water feature takes your space from ordinary to extraordinary.

April-May 2015 59

Outdoor Living

Great Living Outdoors by Anne Honeywell MORE AND MORE HOMEOWNERS are choosing to add square footage outside their home instead of adding on to their house. “Outdoor living space is extremely important when selling a house,” says Charlotte Hailey Dorion of Gardener Realtors. “Buyers are looking to extend the outdoor living space from the back of the home onto a deck or patio creating a place for entertaining family and friends.” There are a number of factors to consider when thinking of expanding your living area to the great outdoors. What is the best location? What do you enjoy most about your property? The front porch view? The backyard privacy? How will you use the space? Dining? Entertaining? Small gatherings? A well-designed outdoor space can serve many functions—and it doesn’t have to be limited to a backyard patio. A front porch can be a welcoming place to sit, visit and perhaps enjoy the sunset. If you enjoy your front porch and it has the best view on your property, this may be the space you choose to emphasize. After you have chosen the location and determined how you are going to use your new space, Bruce Aronson of The Pool and Patio Center, says there are many other factors to be considered. Furniture. The primary use of the space will determine both its shape and the type of furniture you will need. Formal entertaining means a long dining table 60

Inside New Orleans

and chairs, which requires a long and fairly wide rectangular space. If you are going to entertain informally, you will probably end up with a conversation group. The space required for that will be more of a square. Do some research and get sizes and furniture dimensions. Be sure the area you are planning will accommodate that furniture. Entrances and exits to your outdoor room will dictate where you can place furniture. Take them into consideration when designing the overall size of your new area. The type of furniture will also be dictated by whether the area is covered or fully exposed to the elements. Cushioned furniture is the most comfortable, but when fully exposed to the elements, the cushions will need more maintenance than when under cover. Also, if your outdoor room is going to be covered, plan the shape so you can mount outdoor drapes easily. Drapes provide protection from sun glare, keep out insects and complete the look of an outdoor room just as they do inside the home. If you have a salt water pool, your furniture options are going to change. For example, wrought iron will quickly rust around salt water. Aluminum that is not protected against salt will start to corrode. In any case, be sure to inform your furniture source that you have a salt water pool. The sun. Another big consideration when planning a space is the sun. The afternoon or setting sun can make an area either too hot or too bright at certain times of the day. If that space is the only option for your outdoor room, include some sort of shade product in your plans. Lighting is an important aspect of outdoor living. Be sure to incorporate an adequate number of outlets to handle lamps, standing fans and connections for barbecue pits. If at all possible, include a fan in your project. The moving air will help keep mosquitoes away. Floor. If you are going to use tile, bricks, or stone product for your outdoor room floor, be sure they are set as level as possible. There is nothing worse than sitting on a chair that wobbles because the floor is not level. Design help. Take advantage of the design services offered by most high-quality outdoor furniture specialty stores before your plans are set in stone. It is easier to redesign a space before construction rather than after. Remember—spending time outside does not mean you have to forfeit the comforts of the indoors—a well-designed outdoor living space can be both comfortable and inviting. Upgrading a patio, porch or other outdoor area will not only afford your family and guests another space in which to relax and enjoy—it will add value to your home and help get top dollar if you sell. April-May 2015 61

Inside New Orleans

What’s Hot For Outdoors? Even though The Pool & Patio Center has been in business since 1952, owner Bruce Aronson says, “The furniture and accessories introduced for the 2015 season are more exciting than anything I have seen in a long time!” Perhaps the most intriguing change is that backyards have morphed into outdoor rooms. Anything you would use to complete the design of an indoor space is available for your outdoor room. That includes rugs, drapes, lighting, throw pillows and cushioned furniture. For 2015, Bruce thinks these three things are the hottest: deep-seating arrangements, shade products and fire pits.

DEEP SEATING Sectionals are the hottest trend in outdoor rooms. Not only are they flexible enough to fit into oddly shaped areas, they can seat more people and are more comfortable for casual entertaining than traditional sofas and lounge chairs. Consider using a curved sectional like this Ratana curved Portifino sectional (above) as the centerpiece of an unusual design.

SHADE PRODUCTS Cantilevered umbrellas are quickly outselling umbrellas with center poles because cantilevered umbrellas are more versatile. They rotate 360 degrees, which means they cover an area four times larger than a comparable center-pole umbrella (below, right).

They can be tilted further than other umbrellas to create a larger area of shade. Plus, they look like an architectural additional to any outdoor room. The newest entry into the shade category is retractable awnings. They come in much larger sizes than any traditional umbrella and automatically retract at the sign of a storm. Consider a retractable awning when you want to give your outdoor space a custom look (below, left).

FIRE PITS No other category in outdoor products has grown as quickly as fire pits. Whether they burn real wood or operate on natural or LP gas, they provide the heat you need to use your outdoor room almost twelve months a year. Most fire pits replace cocktail tables in a grouping. When it is too hot for a fire, they become cocktail, dining or bar tables for yearround use (below, center). When it comes time to design your new outdoor room, let The Pool & Patio Center help you; after all, they are your EXterior decorator. The Pool & Patio Center is located at 3740 N. Causeway Blvd. in Metairie. (504) 837-2022. poolpatio.com. Open MondaySaturday, 9 – 5. Delivery everywhere in the greater New Orleans area, including St. Tammany.

April-May 2015 63

A Mission to Tranquility by Mary Saterlee

AS A YOGI FROM WAY BACK and a person obsessed with design—specifically textiles—I’ve always been intrigued with India. I’ve long dreamed of seeing the Taj Mahal, the streets of Mumbai and perhaps even practicing yoga in an ashram. When the opportunity to go to India dropped in my lap, I asked no questions; I just jumped at the chance. A friend of mine needed an extra pair of hands to help set up a small medical office in Delhi. We would be doing medical mission work, promoting God’s love by providing basic pediatric needs for hundreds of deprived Indian children. This trip would have no Taj Mahal, no streets of Mumbai and no ashram. But, more than this, the trip would show me the essence of India: the beautiful people adorned in their brilliant colored ensembles living in unimaginable conditions with no lights, no heat or air conditioning, no running water, no toilets; hundreds of thousands of people coexisting on top of each other in broken-down shacks. Every day, my friend, who had a Ph.D. in public health; a physician; a nurse; and I went into this sweet little schoolhouse in the middle of the darkness of the slums. The drive to the school was a sight to behold.

Inside New Orleans

Mounds of trash, discarded food and rubbish lined the sidewalks. Cows, which the Hindus believe to be sacred, roamed the streets unfettered. But once we arrived at the school and the faces of the captivating children, the disgust of its surroundings was forgotten. We were there to serve. We created records of each child’s age, weight, height and medical conditions. Some children had no idea of their age; others didn’t know their family name. They knew nothing of hygiene. We taught them about potable water and vaccinated them. They were hungry for love and attention. But we were the ones who were most blessed by our interaction with the timid, grateful little beauties. By the time our work was over, I wanted to stay longer to experience yoga in India. As a Christian, I decided that an ashram, essentially a Hindu monastery, was probably not the best choice for my yoga experience. I needed something a little more Westernized. And I needed some basic creature comforts, like a spa. I found the perfect spot, and headed south.

photos courtesy: SHREYAS RETREAT

Bangalore, India

After seven days of working in the slums of Delhi, I was ripe for a little cleanliness and luxury, but I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect too much of either anywhere in India. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been more wrong. When I got out of the plane in Bangalore, I already felt a welcomed change from the atmosphere in Delhi. A balmy, tropical breeze was blowing, cooling the tepid air. Bangalore is not subjected to excessive humidity like its sister city to the north. Although I had been warned about the hazards of traveling alone in India, I embraced the challenge. Nonetheless, when I saw the handsome Indian man dressed in a crisp, white cotton, traditional Indian Karta suit holding a sign with my name on it, I was relieved. But when my handsome Indian driver handed me a damp eucalyptus-scented towel for my face and hands, I was blissful. It was exactly what I needed. The scenic drive to Shreyas Retreat took about an hour. The minute we drove into the secluded, walled 24 acres, I felt the magic of this place. And yet, the discovery of its real wonder was still ahead of me. An oasis like none I have ever witnessed sat before me for the taking. Even in the dark of the night, I could see the pristinely manicured beauty of the palm treesprinkled grounds. My driver led me down a gracefully curved stone walkway lined with brown paper bags illuminated by the orange glow of burning candles. At the end of the path stood Shreyasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; signature antique-pillared colonnade, a stronghold welcoming its guests into this lair of serenity. The glistening waters of the azure eternity pool danced in the moonlight. Appropriately dressed in bougainvillea, red and pink ginger and skyscraping palms, the pool serves as the focal point of the central courtyard. A decorator by profession, my color palette of choice is shades of white. I could not have been more pleased when I opened the teak doors to my poolside cottage to see sleek, cool, white marble floors; clean, white linens; and perfectly appointed accompaniments. My modern stainless steel and marble tile bathroom was laden with red and white tuberoses. These were only rivaled by the lei that had been delicately placed around my neck. It smelled of night jasmine, tuberoses and pure, clean air. Although a welcome gesture to me, the lei was, in fact, a gift to the Hindu gods, a point lost on this Christian girl. >> April-May 2015 65

Inside New Orleans

photos courtesy: SHREYAS RETREAT

My four-day yoga retreat included all meals, yoga classes and a spa treatment. Despite my 9 p.m. arrival, my organic, vegetarian dinner awaited me. As not to offend, I said that I would like some soup. Ramakat, the head of the yoga program, led me into the intimate, candlelit dining room where one lonelyyet-elegant place setting sat covered in flowers. Because my visit was in the dead of summer, the resort was particularly quiet. Even in its high season, the three poolside cottages and nine garden “tented” suites allow for a total of only 25 guests, 20 shy of the resort’s staff. With 45 employees, your every whim is predicted and acted upon before you’re even aware you have one. Perhaps it’s part of the Indian culture or perhaps it’s part of the yogic mentality, but shanti, shanti, shanti, or peace, peace, peace is standard fare at Shreyas. It was just what I needed. The previous six months of my life had been

especially challenging. I lost my beloved father after his five-month stay in St. Luke’s Heart Hospital, where I had spent most of the 150 days during which my darling dad fought for his life. Then, within two months of his death, my 50-yearold brother dropped dead of a massive heart attack. I needed to regroup, to pray and cry and be alone. Shreyas was the ideal place to be alone and linger in its peace and solitude, although I long to return someday with my husband or some yoga pals. I am definitely a spa-girl. The spa at Shreyas is what I dream of— sort of like spa-heaven. A young, pleasant Indian woman, wearing a smile that reveals her desire to please, awaits your arrival. The aroma of flowers fills the air of the quaint thatched hut. Clean, warm white cotton sheets and plush aqua terry cloth towels create a billowy bed as a nest for the weary. And, boy was I weary. So weary that I needed a spa treatment every day. I had a Thai massage, a Balinese massage, a coffee and coco butter scrub and my first-ever Ayurveda treatment. Called synchronized Abhyanga, it was described as “a unique massage done by two therapists working in unison to bring about a harmonious sense of wellbeing.” Now that was a new experience! The food at Shreyas was sublime. Much to my husband’s dismay, I do not cook. I am quite a good eater, however. I was fascinated to learn that the chef uses no cream and no butter—my husband’s idea of God’s food. I took a cooking class to learn how to make international delights with no cream or butter—confident that I would return to Louisiana with a renewed sense of purpose for my marriage. The state-of-the-art kitchen in which Shreyas’ chefs demonstrated their signature Vegetable Curry was large enough for an army of Julia Childs. But it was only I. That is, two world-class chefs and I. Maybe my newfound talent for healthy cooking will convince my husband that I need to return to Shreyas for regular lessons. Well, maybe India is a little inconvenient for cooking lessons. But, believe me, if I ever have a chance to return to this fascinating country, I will jump on it—again.

Women in business. The phrase type-A-chicks is often used to describe women in business. It is high praise for those women who are born multi-taskers , thriving in an accelerated environment. That is certainly a type-A talent, but it is not enough. Operating a business also requires big-picture perspective, attention to detail, fearless optimism and boundless ingenuity. The women featured in the following pages have found a way to thrive in their respective industry, and they are an inspiration. In fact, over 30 percent of area businesses are operated by women. Collectively, we bring quite a bit of punch (and personality) to the bottom line of South Louisiana. That is a type-A achievement to be proud of! --Lori Murphy publisher

Inside New Orleans

contents 2 Introduction

4 Tiffany Adler Carrying Forward the New Orleans Tradition.

8 Thought for Food Are you thinking yourself fat? 10 A Purposeful Read Spent, edited by Kerry Cohen. 16 Women: The New Face of Philanthropy

the 2015 women in business 9 Melissa Douglass Steiner Pontchartrain Materials Corporation, LLC 11 Dana Hansel and Winnie Brown Hansel-Brown Consulting, LLC 12 Adrienne Thomas, Deidra Edwards and Joni Clark New Orleans Steamboat Company 12 Stephanie Pagliarulo Emma’s Shoes and Accessories 13 Valerie Gallé FBT Mortgage 14 Kay W. Wilkins American Red Cross Southeast Louisiana Chapter 15 Peggy Stafford Stafford Tile & Stone 15 Trudy Hurley Green Parrot Design 16 Marlen Almendares and Patricia Bereciartua Le Visage Day Spa 17 Charlotte Piotrowski Rent-A-Nerd, Inc. McKenzie Coco FSC Interactive, LLC 18 Cindy Cocke and Sandy Blum Shine Spa + Specialties 18 Dr. Theresa Dronet, LMFT Marriage and Family Therapist 19 Lisa Wyatt, DDS 20 Merry Sorrells St. Martin’s Episcopal School

20 Gretchen Armbruster Armbruster Artworks School 21 Dr. Robin Bone Sculpting Center of New Orleans 22 Kristi Brocato The Basketry 22 Catherine Martens Betz Elliott Gallery 23 Jennifer DiCerbo The French Mix 24 Mamie Gasperecz Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses 25 Grace Kaynor and Virginia McCollam Sotre 26 Kelly Simon mélange by KP 26 Marta and Elizabeth Bragg The Villa 27 Dr. Emma Kruger Metabolic Anti-Aging Center of Louisiana 28 Sandy Franco Franco’s on Magazine 29 Susan Zackin Z Event Company 29 Mary Lou Fewell Shades of Blue, Inc. 30 Peggy Rodriguez everyBody Weight Loss & Wellness Clinic 30 Heather Burnam Flawless Bride

Women IN Business 3

centennial and bicentennial celebrations. It is the exclusive jeweler of several of New Orleans’ oldest Carnival krewes and the keeper of the crown jewels for Rex, King of Carnival. Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, the store’s daily workings are overseen by five family members. Tiffany serves as a vice president. “I started working in the store at the age of 12, coming to work with my father, and returned

Carrying Forward the New Orleans Tradition by Meri Monsour

ADLER’S IS A FAMILY BUSINESS in every sense of the word. For more than a century, Adler’s has been helping generations of New Orleanians celebrate and commemorate life’s most important milestones with stunning jewelry, extraordinary timepieces and thoughtful, tasteful gifts. Over its long history, Adler’s has handled commissions for several U.S. presidents, congressmen and state governors and served as the commemorative coin designer for Louisiana’s

Inside New Orleans

every summer to work,” she explains. “I have always enjoyed helping people find just the right thing for themselves or others.” Being involved from such a young age has given Tiffany a unique perspective on the jewelry industry and a wealth of knowledge that sets her apart from many other local jewelers. “I was grading diamonds and precious stones as a teenager,” says Adler. “I started out polishing silver in the boutique, then was given responsibilities like gift-wrapping, receiving and tagging merchandise. Eventually, I learned how to grade diamonds and other gemstones. I enjoyed helping Dad with this aspect of

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Tiffany Adler

the business because our quality diamonds are one of the things for which we are best known at Adler’s.” By age 16, she was serving as one of the store’s bridal representatives, often working with brides ten or more years her senior. “It was very interesting being so young and waiting on these brides, telling them about the world’s finest china manufacturers and explaining what they should look for when choosing a pattern or picking out their crystal. I loved interacting with these young women and helping them select pieces that would be an important part of their lives as hostesses and homemakers.” Tiffany became active in the day-to-day running of the family business in 1984 and since then has carefully curated a collection of jewelry, watches, gifts and décor, including a full bridal registry, a selection of local designers and several exclusive product lines. Her sophisticated taste and unique eye for design has helped build the store into the shopping destination it is today. Though the Mardi Gras season only lasts a few weeks, for Tiffany, much of her year is consumed by projects commissioned by some of New Orleans’ most prestigious Carnival krewes. Adler’s has been involved with Carnival commissions since the store’s beginning, designing commissioned favors and commemorative items for generations of monarchs and captains, with the earliest documented krewe favor in the store’s

archives dating back to 1902. Tiffany explains that she “inherited” this aspect of the business from her grandfather’s secretary. “Ernestine Watkins,” recalls Tiffany, “She was a fantastic secretary, and I learned a great deal from her! When I started, she and I were facilitating orders for maybe four different krewes. Since then, our Carnival orders have grown significantly, and we are so grateful for this business. It means a great deal to me to be able to continue a tradition that is so dear to our city.” In addition to commissioned pieces for Carnival and corporate orders, Tiffany also oversees much of the store’s original jewelry design and manufacturing, a side of the business that she is passionate about and feels places Adler’s in a class all its own among other New Orleans jewelers. “Elegant, creative, beautiful designs have always >> Women IN Business 5

Inside New Orleans

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

been a focus of ours. My great-grandfather Coleman I’s eye for style is one of the things that gained Adler’s a reputation for excellence from the start. And while our showroom boasts an impeccable selection, sometimes a customer has a piece in mind that only exists in their mind’s eye. I love helping them bring that vision to life!” With cases of the South’s finest jewelry at her disposal, one might expect to see Tiffany Adler sporting a new piece everyday. But just like her city, Tiffany prefers to stick with the classics. While she loves to explore the occasional trend or to discover a new designer, she will often be found donning a well-established collection of pieces, including a sparkling pair of diamond stud earrings, a series of tri-color gold bangles, an original Adler gold link bracelet watch and a lapis ring that was her greatgrandfather’s—and on most days, a chicly tied Hermès scarf. “I try to keep it simple so as not to compete with what I am selling,” explains Tiffany.

The Adler family and the city of New Orleans have always been closely intertwined, and Tiffany embodies that relationship with her civic involvement. As board chairman of the Arts Council of New Orleans, Tiffany was integral to the success of this past December’s launch of Luna Fête, a five-year initiative to employ New Orleans’ iconic architecture as the canvas for large-scale, awe-inspiring outdoor light installations across the city, leading up to the city’s tricentennial in 2018. She is also an active member of the Louisiana Museum Foundation, the New Orleans Concert Band, the Idea Village Advisory Board, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s Board of Trustees, the Hermann-Grima Gallier Historic House Emeritus Board and the Rotary Club of New Orleans, and is a Mayoral Appointee to the Tricentennial Commission Finance Committee. “I love this city,” says Adler. “There is so much history here, and I feel so honored that my family has been such an active part of preserving its unique culture and traditions. I’ve had the privilege of working with families across multiple generations, waiting on customers whose grandparents were customers of my grandfather! I’m thankful each day for the opportunity to uphold my family’s legacy and dedication to service, style and philanthropy in such a one-of-a-kind setting!”

BREAST SURGERY AND RECONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS Undergoing breast surgery and reconstruction can be a very emotional and taxing experience for women. Many questions arise from the moment of breast cancer diagnosis to deciding on which type of reconstruction. To make this journey as easy and simple as possible, Drs. Sassard and Guzetta have teamed up with plastic surgeons Drs. Khoobehi and Walters to offer the latest advances in breast oncological and reconstructive breast surgery including nipple sparing mastectomy and all perforator flaps as well as fat grafting. Together, we help women regain their confidence and achieve the most natural results possible. Contact us to learn more about your options!

Kamran Khoobehi, MD, FACS Don R. Guzzetta, MD

Jules A. Walters, III, MD

Angie R. Sassard, MD, FACS

Get Fit

by Sandy Franco

Thought for Food

Are you thinking yourself fat? AS THE SEASON TRANSFORMS from winter to spring, another metamorphosis takes place within us, one that craves beauty just as nature does. We develop a strong desire to transform our bodies, to shed extra pounds and create of ourselves something renewed and beautiful. Thus we see droves of people lacing up and hitting the gym. But no matter how hard we workout, no matter how many calories we burn, most people will not get the results they are looking for without changing their diet. Nutrition plays a key role in successful weight loss and weight management; you can’t exercise your way out of unhealthy eating habits. But here in South Louisiana, food is a part of our culture. Eating goes way beyond sustenance – it is a way of life. It is the centerpiece of our gatherings, the heart of our hospitality; the way we connect with others and the way we express ourselves. So what happens when you live in this environment and find that you need to take a new approach to food, one that involves a heightened awareness of the quantity and quality of the calories you consume? You might start to feel like you spend every minute of the day thinking about food. And if you are thinking about food, and restricting your food, chances are you are going to want it all the more. Here are some strategies to help you control the food on your mind, and the food on your plate. 1. Re-train your brain.

Do you eat when you are bored? When you are sad? When you are anxious? Do you snack when you sit down at your computer or get behind the wheel? Do you end each meal with a dessert? Do you pair each cup of coffee with a pastry? Every movie with a box of popcorn? If eating becomes driven by emotions or by habit, the amount you consume can easily get 8

Inside New Orleans

away from you. In this way, you might be un-thinking your way to overeating. To break these associations, change things up. Rearrange your office. Squeeze a stress ball while you work. Keep a glass of ice water with lemon handy. Swap coffee for tea. Chew gum while you drive. Finding other things that entertain or comfort you can allow you to make eating about satisfying hunger and maintaining health. 2. Re-sensitize your taste buds.

Taste buds acclimate to the stimuli they receive. If we saturate them with high levels of salty, sugary and fatty foods, that becomes their norm. Healthy food begins to taste bland and salt and sugar are needed in ever-increasing doses to impress them. Some nutrition and weight loss experts suggest quitting vices such as sugar or salt cold turkey, while others warn of the high failure rate that comes with overtaxing will power. Scientific evidence suggests that the re-sensitization of taste nerves takes between 30 and 90 days of consistent exposure to less stimulating foods. If you are a food-lover with a powerful sweet tooth, you may not take kindly to three months without an Oreo, or even a spoonful of sugar in your morning coffee. Weaning your taste buds gradually might be a more sustainable approach. Preparing food at home allows you to know and control the ingredients and the amount of each. Find recipes you love and gradually reduce the amount of sweetener or salt you use each time you make it. Sweeten with fruit, honey or stevia to create healthier treats that are just as satisfying. 3. Don’t restrict, substitute.

If you are looking for research, reports, experts or experience to show that dieting doesn’t work,

you won’t have to look far. Most point fingers at the sustainability clause. How can a temporary way of eating lead to a permanent weight management solution? Most agree that it cannot. But that does not mean that it is entirely without merit. There is value that comes from a heightened awareness of what is consumed, a new way of looking at the food on your plate, or methods devised to redefine portion sizes or to investigate ingredient lists. If you have a time period in mind for reaching your weight-loss goals, rather than getting into a “restrict now – indulge later” mindset, stock your toolbox with methods and knowledge that can be incorporated into the way you eat for years to come. Find healthy and low-calorie recipes, snacks and menu items that you would want to eat even if you had no weight-loss goals. 4. Eat enough; sleep enough.

Decreased caloric intake has been a staple of weight loss programs for as long as weight loss programs have been around. Crash diets, however, are a thing of the past. Today, we know that not consuming enough calories can be as detrimental to sustainable weight loss as consuming too many. The human body is designed for survival. If it doesn’t receive adequate nutrition, it goes into starvation mode, slowing the metabolism and eliminating its more demanding tissues (muscle) before its less demanding tissues (fat). The result is a body with less energy and reduced functioning - one that burns fewer calories – essentially negating the weight loss potential of the reduced caloric intake. The right amount of calories to cut differs according to your age, gender, activity level, and goals. Whenever possible, seek out a weight loss program that offers nutritional counseling to help you find your magic number. Sufficient sleep is also vital to weight loss success. In 2013, researchers at the University of California Berkley studied the brain activity of sleep deprived individuals and found impaired activity in the frontal lobe, the area that controls high level decision making, and increased activity in the reward centers of the brain. Not surprisingly, the same study found that individuals who had been sleep deprived were more likely to crave junk food, and to pass on healthier alternatives. Food stimulates much more than our taste buds and our hunger cues. It also triggers parts of the brain involved in learning, motivation, habit and memory. Changing the way we think about food – and how often we think about it – means changing the roll we give it in our lives.

Melissa Douglass Steiner Pontchartrain Materials Corporation, LLC

Melissa Douglass Steiner stands out as a woman in the local aggregate community. As Executive Vice President of Pontchartrain Materials, she has continued the same quality of service, commitment to their customers and employment that her father started in 1976, and she has never looked back. “My father suggested I work for the company after college—just until I figured out what I wanted to do with my life. After being in the environment and learning more about the business, I knew it’s where I wanted to be,” says Melissa. Although Pontchartrain Materials is a well-known commercial aggregate supplier for major projects like city roads, Melissa stresses that they service smaller jobs as well. “We can do everything from local residential driveways to small business parking lots,” she says. Melissa is especially proud of their in-house aggregate recycling program, which uses local broken concrete. Instead of sitting in a landfill, the concrete is re-purposed and filtered back into the community. This product is certified by the state for road base and other commercial uses. Melissa is equally as proud of Pontchartrain Materials’ low employee turnover and endless years of employee and customer dedication. She says, “I’ve had a hand in almost every part of the business from secretarial to management. It’s really helped me understand the needs of both our employees and customers and to be empathetic to what it takes to keep this business running strong.” Pontchartrain Materials is located at 3819 France Rd., 949-7571. pontchartrain.com. Women IN Business 9

A Purposeful Read

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

Spent: Exposing Our Complicated Relationship with Shopping edited by Kerry Cohen

THAT THING IN THE STORE. It was perfect. It was just the right size and color, a good fit, a decent price. It spoke to you the minute you saw it, whispering promises of confidence and prestige. Surely, it would make someone happy— that someone, of course, being you. You already own lots of things, so why buy more? In Spent: Exposing Our Complicated Relationship with Shopping, edited by Kerry Cohen, you’ll read essays about shopping and the possible reasons behind it. Popular culture says that women + malls = bliss. We shop ’til we drop. We drop a wad on shoes, clothes and things we already have too many of, 10

Inside New Orleans

happily maxing out credit cards only to sweat the day when the bills are due and the checkbook’s lean. Or so everyone’s led to believe. The truth is, though, that women generally have individual, personal, mixed relationships with buying. Shopping, it’s true, can be part of a dream. The woman in an ad for a sweater, for instance, looks mighty happy; ownership of that sweater seems like a portal to living that life. Shopping for it can be a matter of hope for the future—or for health, the chance to wear the item purchased and a dream of buying time. Conversely, shopping might make one believe that money is meaningless,

that it only matters what you do with it. Buying things can be a great equalizer. It can be a sign that you deserve the finer things—or, at least, something a little better than what life and circumstances handed you. Some women shop for their children and ignore their own needs when tracking down deals, while others put themselves first. Shopping can be a bonding experience between mother, daughter, grandmother—or son. Some may see it as a coping mechanism or as relaxation. Items bought could complete a collection, a closet or a soul, while some purchases can definitely be viewed as acts of defiance. Shopping can be fun, but it has a flipside. It can be irritating, exasperating, sad, desperate, and avoided whenever possible. It doesn’t always include a physical purchase. And it doesn’t always mean bringing home the goods by paying for them. Let’s start here: I don’t think you’re going to learn anything from Spent. But the stories presented by editor Kerry Cohen might surprise you. They might shock you a little, anger you some and one or two might ping your Awwwww meter, but I don’t think you’ll learn anything. I don’t think that matters, though. The thirty-one women who contributed to this book each offer different viewpoints on their feelings toward money and what it buys. Their stories come from various walks of life, economic realities and long-held attitudes, which is entertaining enough without having to be instructional. Sometimes, a book is just a book. And this book is worth reading— especially if you, too, have a relationship with money and want insight to that of others. In that case, then, Spent is worth every penny.

Dana Hansel and Winnie Brown are the dynamic duo of Hansel-Brown Consulting. It is their passion for their community that drives them to deliver insightful and innovative solutions to the challenging strategic and operational problems their clients are facing. Hansel-Brown Consulting partners with clients from the private, public and nonprofit sectors to develop strategies that drive growth, create value and foster the full development of organizations and business enterprises. “As strategic and operational advisors, our approach is definitely hands-on,” says Dana. What distinguishes Hansel-Brown from other similar consulting firms is that Winnie and Dana are involved in day-to-day operations with their clients. “We are here, in New Orleans, working through the entire process with them. We leverage our knowledge, contacts and resources to help our clients,” says Winnie. Hansel-Brown takes a customized and creative approach and works in close collaboration with all levels within their client’s organization. “We usually get to know everybody there. Our end goal for our clients is for them to gain a competitive advantage, build a more capable organization and achieve lasting and tangible results,” says Dana. “Between us, we have collectively over 50 years of experience in the private and nonprofit sectors,” estimates Winnie. “That’s a lot of time and a lot of insight into both the New Orleans and regional markets.” Dana and Winnie emphasize that the New Orleans market is different from anywhere else in the country. “Outsiders come in with a paradigm of how things should work, and that is simply not applicable here. We are intimately involved in the dynamics of our local community, so we are able to offer insights that others cannot. We find this to be true in both for-profit and nonprofit arenas. And we are very creative.” Dynamic, energetic and a self-proclaimed “action junkie,” Dana has an unparalleled work ethic that has benefitted numerous organizations where she has held leadership positions, such as the Louisiana Museum Foundation, the New Orleans Museum of Art, the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Women of the Storm, to name just a few. But it’s her more than 20 years in banking and investor relations that lends business acumen to the Hansel-Brown team. She says, “Businesses and nonprofit organizations alike depend on the same elements: sound strategies, good planning and capital to succeed. But to really work, they also need creative ideas and passionate, committed people.” A detour from pursuing an MFA/MBA launched Winnie’s 25-year career in institutional advancement and nonprofit fundraising. Fresh out of college, she was the chief fundraiser and White House advance liaison for a state political party. She says, “This is where I learned that the proof is in the numbers and the importance of efficiency and stealth planning to achieve aggressive goals. We use the same principles and methods at Hansel-Brown today.” Later, Winnie co-directed the Southern Regional Leadership Conference and was on the staff for the city’s Host Committee of the 1988 Republican

Dana Hansel and Winnie Brown Hansel-Brown Consulting, LLC

National Convention in New Orleans. She has successfully implemented start-up development programs for area nonprofits. Active in the community, she has served on a number of boards and committees, as well as chairing the American Red Cross Humanitarian Gala, Julia Jump and serving as president of the Consular Corps Auxiliary. Hansel-Brown’s client list has grown tremendously since 2009, largely through word of mouth. Dana and Winnie say, “As New Orleanians, we are vested in the success of our clients and of our city, since these go hand in hand. We leverage our relationships to open new funding and market opportunities to clients and pride ourselves on our availability and personal commitment to success.”

Contact: Winnie Brown 504-915-6991, winb@cox.net Dana Hansel 504-710-3866, danahansel@cox.net Women IN Business 11

Adrienne Thomas, Deidra Edwards and Joni Clark

New Orleans Steamboat Company Today, a beautiful canopied dock exists at the foot of Toulouse Street, the hub for the Steamboat NATCHEZ and Gray Line Tours. With the help of Adrienne Thomas, Deidra Edwards and Joni Clark, New Orleans Steamboat Company and Gray Line Tours of New Orleans will continue to be leaders in the city’s tourism market. The Steamboat Company’s 40 year involvement in the growth of New Orleans tourism is well recognized. New Orleans Steamboat Company assumed full ownership of Gray Line Tours of New Orleans in 2007. As Director of Marketing and Public Relations for 16 years, Adrienne Thomas strives to ensure that the companies remain icons in the tourism industry. She says, “Media interaction, customer service and personal involvement in community and business organizations are vital keys.” Cruises, tours and events need creative teams to match them with a diverse clientele. Director of Sales Deidra Edwards, who has been with the company more than 22 years and manages a quality team of sales professionals, says, “Our sales team creates and nurtures our businessto-business relationships with over 700 national and international companies, including major tour and travel organizations.” With an extensive hotel, catering and convention background, Senior Operations Manager Joni Clark ensures that events and functions run smoothly. She says, “It’s my responsibility to orchestrate each and every detail to ensure flawless special events.” (504) 569-1401. NewOrleansSteamboatCompany.com. 12

Inside New Orleans

Stephanie Pagliarulo Emma’s Shoes and Accessories

With a keen eye for detail and a wealth of savvy business knowledge under her handbag, Stephanie Pagliarulo opened Emma’s Shoes and Accessories on the northshore in August 2012. On the eve of its second birthday, Emma’s was burgeoning with so much success that a second location opened in August 2014 on Metairie Road in Metairie. With lines like Marc by Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch, Rag and Bone, Kate Spade, L.K. Bennett and Vince, the upscale boutique offers fashion-forward trends at price points that fit every budget. From fashionable booties to flats to elegant heels, the unique merchandise—including jewelry and handbags—has more to offer the ladies of New Orleans than ever. To stay on the cusp of the ever-changing fashion scene, Stephanie travels to market in New York City and California several times a year. Stephanie offers style advice to all who enter. “We love helping customers achieve the look they want,” Stephanie says. “If you see a look in a magazine, come in and we can help you style that look for your body type.” Whether your calendar says weekend getaway or cocktail soiree, Emma’s is sure to have the signature piece you’re searching for. Shop online or keep up with their new arrivals on Instagram and Facebook.

Visit Emma’s Shoes and Accessories at 110 Rosa Ave. in Old Metairie until they move to their new location at 155 Metairie Rd. 504-407-0668. Also on the northshore at 3904 Hwy. 22 Mandeville. 985-778-2200. emmasshoes.com.

“The best part of my day is when I receive a referral from a past client or another business professional, or especially when a client chooses to do repeat business with me. Then I know that the strong relationships I have worked to develop really matter.”

–Valerie Gallé

Purchasing a home is one of the most exciting occasions in a person’s life. Whether it’s the young couple buying their first starter home where the sounds of a baby’s cry will soon be heard, or the upgrade needed when life is all about soccer games and schedules, or, finally, the dream space that provides comfort and serenity, Valerie Gallé, president of FBT Mortgage, a subsidiary of First Bank and Trust, and her dedicated team enjoy being by their client’s side for these important milestones. All home-buying experiences are memorable, and Valerie and her team’s goal is to make sure the process is smooth, hassle free and memorable for all the right reasons! A Mississippi girl, Valerie’s values have always been Southern and small town, but her brain has been more Wall Street and negotiating. She recalls fondly attending a family reunion when she was in high school. While her cousins were discussing the latest fashion craze, she was chatting about how she was going to fill a business niche in the community with her uncle. As a student at the University of Southern Mississippi, Valerie considered herself a creative person and dreamed of a career in advertising. She learned that creativity is a necessary component in all careers and applies it daily to provide the best solutions for her customers and to continue to motivate her team. A natural leader and self-starter, Valerie gained valuable experience working for years in the New Orleans banking and finance industry. She remembers her first bank interview— she spent her pay check to buy a “big city” suit and shoes and entered a Poydras Street high rise for the very first time. She got the job! “I have done it all in the mortgage industry from start to finish—from processing to loan originating,” says Valerie. “Through the years, I realized that many companies treat their clients like they are just a number or a goal to meet. It is important to me and my team that we have a more personal connection with our clients.” Valerie is most passionate about telling the community that home ownership is attainable. It does not have to be just a dream—she can make a reality. She says, “Most people are very surprised about the variety of loan options they could be approved for, like FHA or VA loans, which make purchasing a home more affordable. Often, lower interest rates and thriving

Valerie Gallé FBT Mortgage

home sales in an area mean it might be the right time to upgrade or refinance. Sometimes we see clients whose personal credit needs a little improvement. I help walk them through the steps to put them in a better position, which benefits them in many areas of their life. I want them to know that we’re working together and my team of experts and I are there for them.” Valerie knows that the mortgage process takes a team. “I’m so grateful to work with our local community of professionals, such as local Realtors, appraisers and title attorneys. They make my job easier, and my clients appreciate dealing with other local professionals,” she says. “The best part of my day is when I receive a referral from a past client or another business professional, or especially when a client chooses to do repeat business with me. Then I know that the strong relationships I have worked to develop really matter.” Interesting fact: Don’t challenge Valerie to a twirl off! While at the University of Southern Mississippi, she was a majorette on the award-winning Eaglette’s team!

909 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70112. 6911 Washington Ave., Ste. B, Ocean Springs, MS 39564. 228-872-1020. vgalle@fbtonline.com Visit any First Bank and Trust office to speak with one of Valerie’s team members. www.fbtonline.com Women IN Business 13

From Volunteer to Chief Executive

Kay W. Wilkins

2005 was just such a time as Kay and her team faced their greatest challenge—Hurricane Katrina. Since then, Kay has passionately brought disaster preparedness to the forefront of public consciousness. Her experience with disasters led her to embrace the philosophy that teaching families how to prepare for emergencies could help keep loved ones and communities safe. Kay and her team in New Orleans developed the Pillowcase Project when she learned that university students used pillowcases to evacuate with their keepsakes and critical supplies during Hurricane Katrina. The program is designed to ease fears about disasters and the evacuations that are often necessary. Children learn to pack their favorite items from home into a pillowcase for easy transport, and parents learn ways to address their children’s concerns about evacuations. Hurricane Katrina also inspired Kay and her team to create the Senior Preparedness Pack. This program helps senior citizens develop and execute disaster preparedness plans. Red Cross workers lead the seniors through step-by-step guides in the pack that help them prepare, including organizing finances, keeping track of medications and compiling necessary documents. Moved by Kay and her team’s pioneering initiatives, the American Red Cross is now distributing the Senior Preparedness Pack statewide and the Pillowcase Project as part of a nationwide preparedness initiative. The Pillowcase Project has even been implemented in other countries. President Barack Obama honored Kay in 2012 as a Champion of Change for her work. Today, she continues to work toward developing innovative programs to build disaster-resilient communities.

American Red Cross Southeast Louisiana Chapter For Kay W. Wilkins, a typical workday might look like this: DRIVING four hours to Fort Polk to meet Red Cross hospital volunteers who work with soldiers. TRAVELING across the country to speak with MBA students at Dartmouth University on Leadership During Crisis, sharing her Red Cross Katrina experiences. OR providing encouragement to a group of recently certified Red Cross lifeguards or 80-year-old adults just learning to swim. Her day doesn’t end at sundown. She could be awakened in the middle of the night regarding the need to open a shelter for families displaced by fire or with the heartbreaking news that a home fire claimed a life. You can find Kay in her Red Cross vest, teamed with firefighters and local community volunteers, walking door to door in neighborhoods to share lifesaving home fire safety messages and install smoke detectors—for free. “People count on us to help them in their darkest hour,” says Kay. As regional chief executive of the America Red Cross in Louisiana, she doesn’t need a crisis to make a powerful statement. You don’t go from volunteer to CEO of one of the busiest Red Cross regions in the nation without tenacity for getting things done in high-stress environments. Addressing challenging circumstances at a moment’s notice is a calling for Kay. In Louisiana, the Red Cross responds to a disaster every 7 hours. Since joining the Red Cross more than 35 years ago as a volunteer CPR instructor, she has been on a mission to bring life-saving information to communities when it’s needed most. 14

Inside New Orleans

The American Red Cross Southeast Louisiana Chapter is headquartered at 2640 Canal St., (504) 620-3105. redcross.org/la/new-orleans.

Peggy Stafford Stafford Tile & Stone

Trudy Hurley Green Parrot Design

Stafford Tile & Stone is the premier spot in Louisiana to purchase your stone, tile, glass, and ceramic products. Peggy Stafford, a published interior designer, has worked in the design community for more than 20 years. Before founding Stafford Tile & Stone in 2001, she created a thriving interior design business in Boulder, Colorado, that specialized in tile designs and construction supervision for residential and commercial projects. She says, “I am a Louisiana native and a graduate of Newcomb College/Tulane University. I loved my years here, during and after college. I knew I would return one day, to the place I call home, New Orleans.” Stafford Tile & Stone is the premier source in the region for stone, tile, glass and ceramic products. “We promote the use of authentic hand-made products, whether molten glass for a tiled bathroom floor or earthen-rich clay that’s formed into a Moroccan kitchen backsplash,” says Peggy. “Our longterm, exclusive relationships with craftsmen enable us to continually offer these unique products to our clients.” Stafford Tile & Stone clients are architects, designers, homeowners, contractors and developers working on both residential and commercial projects. “We are so thankful for the good customers we have had over the years who have had the courage and faith to let us design the spaces they love living in,” says Peggy. “Our mantra is “Design, Craftsmanship and Service,” and we abide by that in all customer relations”

A Green Parrot has always been a part of Trudy Hurley’s life. From a young age, she spent time at the Green Parrot antique and accessories shop on St. Charles Avenue, where her mother, Mary Helen Stall, classically trained her in the art of design. More than 25 years ago, Trudy’s heartfelt hobby turned into a full-time job when she opened Green Parrot Design. She has worked in the finest homes in the New Orleans area and beyond for her clients, ranging from sports super stars to young couples just starting out. She has graced the covers and interiors of dozens of local and national publications showcasing her work. Approachable beauty and classic elements define Trudy’s unique interiors. She is known for her fearless love of color and attention to detail, but prides herself on not having a particular ‘look.’ She says, “I would rather encourage and refine my client’s good taste than impose mine on them.” Trudy’s projects range from just a few hours of design consultation to long-term construction and renovation exploits. She often works shoulder to shoulder with architects and contractors in the planning and construction phase of the design venture. “It’s not brain surgery, but creating a fabulous personal space for someone to feel happy and relaxed in is a very rewarding vocation.”

5234 Magazine St., New Orleans. 504.895.5000. 4273 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge. 225.925.1233. staffordtile.com.

thurleygreenparrot@yahoo.com trudyhurley.com. Women IN Business 15

Women: The New Face of Philanthropy In the arena of philanthropy, women’s values and visions are reshaping our world. • Women reinvest 90 percent of their income back into their families and communities – more than twice the 30-40 percent that men reinvest. • In nearly 90 percent of high-net-worth U.S. households, women are either equal or sole decision makers when it comes to charitable giving.

Marlen Almendares and Patricia Bereciartua Le Visage Day Spa

From the moment you walk in the doors of Le Visage Day Spa, you will feel a sense of calm and relaxation. Together, owners Marlen Almendares, who is originally from Honduras, and Patricia Bereciartua, who is from Argentina, have a total of more than 30 years of experience in the beauty and wellness business. The desire to provide the right professional services for their clients was their motivation for opening their own business. “For every service we offer, from head to toe, our staff knows exactly the treatment their clients need and they know how to customize the services accordingly,” explains Patricia. “If a client is scheduled for a Vitamin C facial, but I notice their skin could benefit from a different treatment, I highly recommend the other treatment,” says Marlen. This October, Le Visage Day Spa will celebrate its 5th anniversary. When Marlen and Patricia are not exploring London, Hong Kong, Paris, and Spain looking for the latest trends in the industry, they live and breathe wellness inside and outside the workplace. “We love trading recipes, reading about health and nutrition and sharing our findings with our clients,” says Marlen. And that is why the ladies believe Le Visage Day Spa stands out above the rest. “We welcome you into our world, and we thank you for inviting us into yours.” For relaxation, rejuvenation and pampering, call 265-8018 to schedule an appointment, or stop by 8110 Hampson St. 16

Inside New Orleans

• In every income bracket, female-headed households are more likely to give to charity than male-headed households. • High-net-worth women have been shown to donate twice as much of their wealth to charity as do men. • While women earn 75 percent of men’s total income, their overall contribution to charity is 93 percent of men’s. • Female philanthropists express a strong desire to raise the next generation with a value for charitable giving. • With women at the helm, philanthropy has become a more social endeavor. The Power of Collaborative Giving

Impact 100 is a select group of a hundred women who have committed to giving $1,100 per year for the purpose of making a single transformative grant to a local nonprofit–one every year. These transformative grants will be game-changers for the recipient nonprofits. Over time, these nonprofits will be game-changers for our city, as well.

Impact 100 is a program of the Greater New Orleans Foundation. To learn more about Impact 100, go to gnof.org/impact100.

Charlotte Piotrowski Rent-A-Nerd, Inc.

McKenzie Coco FSC Interactive, LLC

It’s always encouraging to meet someone who’s doing the work they were born to do. It’s uncanny to meet two individuals who’ve not only found their own niche, but also discovered that their talents, work styles, and businesses are extremely compatible. Two local entrepreneurs, Charlotte Piotrowski of Rent-A-Nerd, Inc., a local IT firm, and McKenzie Coco of FSC Interactive, an online marketing firm specializing in social media and search, offer local businesses seamless computer and digital marketing services. Several years ago, Charlotte Piotrowski left her ten-year litigation career to follow other pursuits, including writing, editing, and aiding start-up businesses. Eventually her heart—by way of marrying its owner—led her to an IT firm that has become a vital part of local businesses. “My husband, Darrin, founded Rent-A-Nerd, Inc. in 1997,” Charlotte says. “I joined him in 2013, taking over marketing and community outreach.” Together, the Piotrowskis and their contingent of “nerds” offer computer and equipment sales and services vital to businesses of any size, including network management, cloud-based email/document share services, consulting, service contracts, data storage and recovery, and more. “Our motto is ‘We are your IT staff without the overhead,’” Charlotte says. No matter the size of your business, Rent-A-Nerd partners with its clients by providing highly skilled and certified computer technicians in-store, onsite, and remotely, which is an extremely cost-effective solution. Darrin met McKenzie Coco in 1998 when she was with New Orleans CityBusiness, and reconnected with her when they both participated in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program in 2013. He introduced her to Charlotte, and a great business relationship was forged. McKenzie started what is now FSC Interactive in 2007 and was one of the pioneers of search and social media services here in New

Orleans. “We teach companies how to get desired results from their website and social media,” McKenzie says. “We help them fine tune their goals and build a plan to achieve them. The beauty of online marketing is that if something is not as effective as expected, you can adjust it immediately, analyze what has worked and go from there.” You can learn a lot about McKenzie by visiting her FSC Interactive website, fscinteractive.com. The website is creative. It’s savvy. And it’s focused. Just like FSC Interactive. It’s everything that works in web marketing. On their home page, a collage of verbiage in eclectic fonts shouts some of the ideas that set this firm apart. “FSC lives and breathes online marketing… Quality trumps everything, always… We believe in measurable results … We treat clients like partners, not paychecks …” And they mean it. Both women are deeply involved in local non-profits, with Charlotte supporting Raintree Children and Family Services, Junior League of New Orleans, New Orleans Opera Association, and several animal shelters, among others. McKenzie also volunteers with local animal rescues, as well as Junior Achievement, American Marketing Association, and most recently, Lighthouse for the Blind. Today, no business can be successful without computer know-how and a dynamic Internet presence to market itself effectively. Yet many do not have the knowledge and/or time to stay on top of this everchanging technology. With Rent-A-Nerd Inc. and FSC Interactive in their corner, businesses don’t have to. They can launch a new start-up, expand an existing enterprise, or diversify their business with confidence, knowing they have the sharpest local minds on the job.

Rent-A-Nerd, Inc., is located at 103 Focis St., Metairie, (504) 454-6373. Rent-A-Nerd.net.

FSC Interactive is located at 1943 Sophie Wright Place, (504) 894-8011. FSCINteractive.com. Women IN Business 17

Cindy Cocke and Sandy Blum Shine Spa + Specialties

When Sandy Blum met Cindy Cocke, they knew they’d go into business together. With Cindy’s yin and Sandy’s yang, that meeting launched two decades of partnership. As owners/operators, each brings something unique to both their newest venture, Shine Spa + Specialties in MidCity, and Spa Aria in the Monteleone Hotel—and each is smart enough to encourage the talents of each other, their employees and their clients. “Our mission is to help people create happier and healthier lives,” says Cindy. “Our heart is in healing the body.” “From the moment a guest walks into either spa, we want the whole experience to take them to a place of repose,” says Sandy. “Soft candle glow, infused fragrance, world-renowned products, custom blends and our gifted staff ease even the most exhausted soul.” While serving hotel guests from all over the globe, Spa Aria has garnered a loyal following of city residents as well. “We’ve kept Spa Aria small by design,” says Cindy. “Now, Shine Spa + Specialties on Carrollton enables us to engage with a larger segment of the city.” From the Old World charm of Spa Aria to the open, energetic feel of Shine Spa + Specialties, relaxation and rejuvenation are gifts from two women to the city they love.

Shine Spa + Specialties is located at 421 N. Carrollton Ave., Suite A-4, (504) 486-0999. shinedayspa.com. Spa Aria is located in the Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., (504) 523-9990. spaaria.com. 18

Inside New Orleans

Dr. Theresa Dronet, LMFT Marriage and Family Therapist

“I always danced as a child. Ballroom dancing just seemed like the next step,” says Dr. Theresa Dronet, licensed marriage and family therapist. What does ballroom dancing have to do with therapy? A lot. It gave Theresa a physical representation of what happens between couples emotionally. “In so many forms of dance you are solo, but in ballroom, you literally have to learn that push and pull of a relationship, while staying balanced,” she says. Theresa always had a knack for pinpointing what was going on in other people’s relationships. If one of her friends was struggling, Theresa wouldn’t just say she was depressed. Instead, she would ask questions like, “What’s going on at home? Something with your parents?” Today, that translates to a very exclusive profession. Louisiana has only one accredited LMFT program. While her Ph.D. in marriage and family therapy gives her a specific license to help couples and families, Theresa also specializes in life coaching and women’s issues. She explains, “Life coaching is a guided coaching for women regarding their dating, career, family or other major issues.” Take it from her client, Leah, “Dr. Dronet has a very calm, caring approach to therapy. I appreciated the way she built upon my strengths and helped me overcome some lifelong issues that were holding me back from living the life I deserved.”

Dr. Theresa Dronet, LMFT Dr. Dronet’s office is located on 541 Julia St., Suite 201, in the Warehouse District. 504.208-5580. www.dronet.pro

Lisa Wyatt, DDS

Making Happier Smiles, One Tooth at a Time. Lisa Wyatt loves to tell the story of her first job interview. “I was applying for a job as a dental hygienist,” she says. “Right away, the dentist said, ‘I know you’. He flipped through some old files and found one on me, when I first came to him as a preschooler. Apparently, he remembered me because I’d been sent to him by a pedodontist across town. This was unusual because it was usually him sending unruly patients to the pedodontist. But this was the other way around, because I’d bitten this pedodontist so hard he had to take two weeks off work.” The dentist said Lisa had been a perfect angel for him. And he soon became her first employer. Perhaps it was this early experience that motivated Lisa to rethink the child/dentist experience. “We have parents accompany the kids into the room,” she says. “It makes things less stressful for everyone. I understand some kids are going to whine at the dentist. The parent can come in and take charge of the discipline. Then I get to be this nice family friend who’s taking care of everyone’s teeth. It works better for everyone.” In her practice Lisa sees everyone from toddlers with their first teeth to seniors and has a special place in her heart for patients with special needs. “Dentists all over the state send patients to me, those with acute dental anxiety and those with a special need such as Cerebral Palsy, Downs Syndrome, medically delicate patients, those on dialysis or going through chemo, those with diabetes and the elderly. If someone needs special accommodation, we love being the ones to provide it.” Dr. Wyatt put in the extra schooling and hospital residency

to become sedation-certified and provide that extra level of comfort for anyone who needs it. She offers oral IV sedation and will go to the hospital for general dentistry as well. “I was trained to treat the whole person, not just the teeth,” she says. “I begin with any new patient by obtaining a full medical history and begin any procedure with a blood pressure check. Because many of my patients have requested cosmetic dentistry, I’ve invested in the latest technology to provide porcelain veneers, onlays, inlays, and whitening.” She’s happy to introduce nonsurgical skin rejuvenation with Pelleve Advanced Wrinkle Reduction System. “I was investing in the Pelleve machine for dental applications and thought, why not let my patients benefit from the cosmetic capability as well,” she says. When not on the job, Dr. Wyatt is a true New Orleans girl, soaking up local music and decorating those coveted Muses shoes, for her ride each Carnival. She is mom to three girls, 25-year-old twins and a 9-year-old, a Sunday school teacher at St. Augustine Episcopal in Metairie, a Brownie leader and volunteer mom at Metairie Park Country Day School. She enjoys creating art, particularly painting. She’s happy to announce the opening of her second location in Old Metairie Village, on Metairie Road across from Langenstein’s. Dr. Wyatt’s offices are at 5037 Veterans Blvd Suite 3E in Metairie and now at 701 Metairie Road, Suite 2A-110 in Metairie. She can be reached at 504-613-5497 or WyattFamilyDentistry.com. Women IN Business 19

Merry Sorrells

Head of School, St. Martin’s Episcopal School “We prepare students to thrive in college and in life through faith, scholarship and service,” is not only the mantra for St. Martin’s Episcopal School, it is also the personal mission of Head of School Merry Sorrells. The first female head in the school’s 68-year history, Sorrells has brought a new level of innovation, collaborative thinking and diversification to the school’s curriculum. Sorrells is a true educational visionary. Under her leadership, St. Martin’s has introduced The Idea Lab for Innovation+Design, which integrates design thinking across the curriculum with a focus on engaging students in real-world, creative, collaborative problem-solving; formed the STeaM Lab, which, with its 3-D printers and scanners, uses technology and creativity to teach design skills to elementary students; and expanded the George Cottage early childhood program. “It is an exciting time to be an educator, a shaper of the future!” exclaims Sorrells. “Our curriculum, combined with experienced, loving teachers and a faith-based environment, fosters motivated, dedicated learners and prepares them to thrive as bright, active and engaged citizens in a multi-faceted world.” Sorrells has been a leader and administrator at local independent schools for more than a decade, serving at Newman, St. Paul’s, and Trinity before joining St. Martin’s in 2012. Recently, she accepted a five-year contract extension to continue her thriving relationship with St. Martin’s and lead the school into the future.

Gretchen Armbruster Armbruster Artworks School

Gretchen Armbruster opened her fine art school and studio in Covington more than three years ago. Her workshop classes are popular, attracting students from Metairie, New Orleans and the entire region. She teaches classes in all mediums, with a special focus on oils. “I couldn’t have imagined loving a job so much. Teaching such talented and wonderful people is truly a great thing to wake up and do every day!” Gretchen also paints for galleries across the country, including Southern Breeze in Jackson, Mississippi; Taylor Clark Gallery in Baton Rouge; Pineapple Gallery and Arabella Fine Gifts and Home Décor in Mandeville; and Gallery 526 in New Orleans. Her notable works include the 2004-06 “Crescent City Classic” posters, 12 years of elaborate Bacchus designs and extensive murals in the historic French Quarter Old Absinthe House. She was featured in the Art of the Horse issue of the national American Art Collector magazine. Her paintings can also be seen in St. Tammany Parish Hospital, West Jefferson Hospital, Ochsner hospitals and many restaurants and homes in the area. Her work was even on the big screen in the movie, He Said She Said. As a young artist, Gretchen studied with local artists such as David Robert Rosbach, Alan Flattman and David Jinks. She studied at LSU and at the John McCrady School of Art. She is well known as a portrait and landscape artist, working in oils, watercolor and pencil.

Armbruster Artworks School

St. Martin’s Episcopal School is located at 225 Green Acres Rd. in Metairie. 733-0353. stmsaints.com. 20

Inside New Orleans

Armbruster Artworks Studio is located at 40 N. Vermont St. in Covington, 985-630-6295. armbrusterartworks.com.

From the young age of twelve, Robin Bone knew she’d become a doctor. “As a young child my grandmother was ill with a massive stroke leaving her partially paralyzed,” she says. “My mom was the youngest of ten children, and I can remember tagging along with my mother taking my grandmother to doctor appointments.” Initially Dr. Bone wanted to become a dermatologist. She was determined to stay on that course until she did her first delivery at Charity Hospital during her obstetrics rotation at LSU Medical School in New Orleans. Then she was hooked. “As an OBGYN, I have the best of every specialty while caring for women. Not only do I have the honor of bringing life into the world by delivering babies; I’m an internist, a surgeon, a psychiatrist and a dermatologist,” she says. “I’m able to engage with my patients on a personal level. A woman’s OBGYN becomes like part of her family.” Bone finished her residency in OBGYN at Louisiana State University in New Orleans in 2000 where in her last year she received the Medical Center of Louisiana Charity Hospital Resident of the Year. Dr. Bone opened her private practice in Metairie in 2000, and has been running ever since. “I’m an only child,” she said. “My mom would have been crushed if I moved to another city. But more than that New Orleans is my home and I’m very committed to this city. New Orleans is where I am rooted.” She continued to build her practice with Dr. Kathryn Wild, MD at Lakeside Women’s Specialty Center carefully hand-selecting the physicians who would join them by searching for others who not only were excellent clinical doctors but also shared their patient-centered philosophy. Lakeside Women’s Specialty Center, located on the campus of East Jefferson General Hospital, now includes six thriving female OB/GYNs and a nurse practitioner specializing in women’s health. Over the years, as Bone listened to her patients, she began to hear a repeated comment from menopausal and postpartum women, they ask, “How can I get rid of this belly? Now that I’m over 50 or have had a baby, I can’t seem to do anything about it.” These are women who eat right and exercise but there are certain areas of the body that are resistant to diet and exercise. After extensive research and investigating into non-invasive technology of cryolipolysis, freezing fat, she also opened Sculpting Center of New Orleans. “I looked into many fat removal technologies. I wanted something that actually worked, is permanent and is safe for my patients. I have built 15 years of trust with my patients and wanted to make sure I was doing the best and safest treatment to help them,” Bone said. “A doctor friend in Baton Rouge introduced me a few years ago to CoolSculpting®, a non-invasive treatment that actually freezes away fat for women and men.” CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared and backed by more than ten years of research at Harvard University. Dr. Bone and her staff of registered nurses can eliminate areas of stubborn body fat from the abdomen, flanks, thighs and arms by freezing fat without surgery, removing 20-25% of fat cells from the targeted area permanently. CoolSculpting is relatively painless and patients can resume their daily activities immediately. Sculpting Center of New

Dr. Robin Bone

Sculpting Center of New Orleans Orleans specializes in CoolSculpting with dedicated treatment suites fully equipped with a large flat screen TV and WiFi. Because they are one of the very few offices that have two CoolSculpting devices, patients can undergo two treatments in as little as one hour, reducing overall treatment time in half. Dr. Bone and her staff have also received extensive training achieving certification from CoolSculpting University in California in advanced techniques in bodysculpting. Dr. Bone has remained very hands-on in both medical practices. “It’s been great to be able to offer this service to my OBGYN patients as well as the New Orleans community. My practice has always involved much more than the clinical aspect of patient care. As a patient visits, I strive to not only meet the physical/medical needs of a woman, but her spiritual and emotional needs as well; looking after the whole person. As women, we feel better and are empowered when we are confident on the inside and out. Women are natural caretakers of others and rarely take time to do anything special to treat themselves. CoolSculpting allows me to offer this new service to my patients allowing women to empower themselves by changing their shape in a non-invasive way.”

Sculpting Center of New Orleans 4500 Clearview Pkwy., Ste. 202; Metairie; 504-309-9456. SculptingNOLA.com. Women IN Business 21

Kristi Brocato The Basketry

With only $500 and a ton of ambition, Kristi Brocato began The Basketry in 1995. An idea that was born in a college dorm room quickly developed into a blossoming gift basket business. As her reputation grew, Kristi expanded into a retail store, fully customized to generate the gift baskets that were becoming a must for her customers. “People love sending our gift baskets,” she says. “We became popular with the hotels downtown and started amassing corporate accounts. People began to recognize our baskets for their uniqueness and their beauty.” There’s a gift basket for every occasion. From NOLA welcome baskets and amenities filled with local flare to wedding gifts, new baby and birthday gift baskets. There’s even a gift basket for funerals filled with freshly baked muffins and gourmet foods. “We ship baskets worldwide,” says Kristi. “We’re all about service. When someone says they forgot their friend’s birthday, they want to spend $50 and she likes wine, we’re on it.” After 20 years, Kristi remains committed to the principles with which she began the company: “Provide beautiful gifts that make people smile and have a lot of fun in the process.” From custom-designed gift baskets to unique gifts, there’s a little bit of everything inside The Basketry. Shop online, visit the store, or give us a call to experience a little bit of The Basketry magic! The Basketry retail store is located at 12337 Hwy. 90 in Luling, La. To place an order, call 504-309-7935. thebasketry.com. 22

Inside New Orleans

Catherine Martens Betz Elliott Gallery

Look past the street musicians, restaurants and retail shops on Royal Street and you’ll discover a hidden local treasure. Elliott Gallery is a warm retreat from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter providing world– renowned, classically collected contemporary art for over 42 years. Catherine Martens Betz is the proud new owner of Elliott Gallery, recently purchasing it from her mentors and close friends, Fred and Betty Ann Elliott. “I feel fortunate to continue Elliott Gallery’s long-standing personal relationships with both our artists and our clients,” says Catherine. What makes the gallery incredibly unique is they only offer works produced by the artist during their lifetime— no reproductions or copies. “We have always represented museum quality artists throughout the years. Quality art coupled with a high priority for art education and customer service, results in Elliott Gallery’s exceptionally loyal return clientele—from the avid art collector to the inexperienced—all are welcomed here,” says Catherine. “Visitors returning to the gallery twenty years later say they experience the same personal connection to our artists and their work,” says Catherine. “Ultimately, I hope share my enthusiasm and passion for our artists with our clients and help them find a piece that will bring them joy for years to come.” Elliott Gallery is located at 540 Royal St, New Orleans (504) 523-3554. Elliottgallery.com

Jennifer DiCerbo The French Mix

For Jennifer DiCerbo, ordinary won’t do—for her clients or her life. The tagline of her business, The French Mix, is “When Ordinary Won’t Do.” Upscale sophistication meets timeless classic in Jennifer’s homes in Southeastern Louisiana. Her innate sense of style and desire to create the space of your dreams always ensures the end result has a cohesive flow throughout that complements the home’s architecture. If you’re after a warm, inviting, unique living space but don’t know where to start, Jennifer is the designer for you. She creates rooms with each and every single detail carefully thought out. To go the extra mile and make the space extraordinary, she adds interesting textures to add interest to what she calls “the mix.” “I’m always mixing old and new,” she says. “As a very visual person, I love the whole creative process of finding inspiration and being able to go through the steps to translate that into a gorgeous, tangible, livable space.” Jennifer started her interior design business sixand-a-half years ago. Taking a team approach, Jennifer serves as the designer; her husband, Tom, handles business operations; and Chris Piazza is the store manager and design assistant. The team has been bringing to life the visions of her clients ever since, whether for new construction, renovations or simply updating an existing space. One client Jennifer has helped is Francesca Langlow, who was a novice when it came to pursuing design services. The two consulted together on multiple rooms in Francesca’s home, which Francesca now describes as “just lovely.” “Jennifer is absolutely very talented. She has impeccable, elegant taste,” says Francesca. “The team is

easy to work with and the whole process was wonderful.” Though you might be hesitant to consult a design firm, Francesca says don’t let your budget fool you—it’s more affordable than you think. She says Jennifer took careful consideration into her taste, lifestyle and budget, something that is very important for her in the process. For Jennifer, understanding her client’s lifestyle before collaborating further is very important. Only after that can the process of selecting beautiful, functional and approachable pieces begin. Though Jennifer is a busy business woman and a member of her local business association who serves her community when and where she can, she devotes as much time as necessary to sit down with potential clients and learn what they’re looking for. “I have always had an interest and natural ability to identify unique things and how to make them work together in a particular space,” Jennifer says. “I get to do something I am passionate about on a daily basis, and that keeps me energized to tackle multiple projects at one time.” For those who may not know exactly what they want, the retail showroom of The French Mix might spark some inspiration. Nestled in a house in historic downtown Covington on charming Lee Lane, the showroom is a home-like setting that’s fresh, clean and sophisticated. Each piece has been hand-selected and handplaced, helping clients to easily envision the future décor of their own homes. The French Mix offers furnishings, lighting, rugs, window treatments, cribs, custom bedding and original works of art. Jennifer has access to hundreds of lines, as well as designer showrooms in Dallas; Highpoint, N.C.; and New York. The French Mix can also help with paint choices, flooring needs, cabinetry and plumbing.

Visit The French Mix at 228 Lee Lane in Covington or at shopthefrenchmix.com and follow on Facebook at facebook.com/ thefrenchmix. To have the team at The French Mix begin work on the home of your dreams, call (985) 809-3152 or email design@shopthefrenchmix.com to schedule an appointment. Women IN Business 23

Mamie Gasperecz

Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses Mamie Gasperecz counts the Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses as treasured members of her family. As Executive Director, she recalls, like so many other New Orleanians, that the museums have been part of her life for longer than she can remember. “People tell me all the time that they remember visiting Hermann-Grima as a child. It’s a part of growing up in this city,” says Gasperecz. “I often think about Sam Hermann,” Gasperecz continues. “When he built his house, I’m pretty sure he didn’t know it would be around for 200 years and that so many people would be enjoying it.” The two house museums were opened in the 1970s and are now accredited by the American Association of Museums as one institution. The non-profit parent organization of the museums is The Woman’s Exchange (formerly The Christian Woman’s Exchange), founded in 1881 by local women supporting women in need. Today, TWE is a local leader in preservation and education. The organization is supported by self-generated funds and generous contributions and is operated under a two-word philosophy—gracious hospitality. From the families who first lived in the homes to the women who run them today, that gracious hospitality is extended to every visitor. Gasperecz is particularly excited about a recent partnership. “The original Hermann-Grima family property spanned from St. Louis through Conti and over to Dauphine Streets,” she says. “Broussard’s Restaurant is built on what was once part of the estate. We’ve recently partnered with the new owners of Broussard’s to offer exceptional after-hours events, weddings and parties–once again connecting the two properties as one through the joined courtyards.” As a child, Gasperecz saw herself doing just this type of work. She took a few detours, working first as a banker then teaching business at UNO, and she finds herself often drawing on those former lives. “I 24

Inside New Orleans

know the things I know,” she says. “More importantly, I know what I don’t know and I bring in experts to do the things I can’t. Bright, young people come from all over the U.S. to help us build and preserve here. I’m not ready to pass the torch yet. But when I am, it’s great knowing I’ll have these amazing young people in place.” For Gasperecz, inviting her husband and son into her work has provided her with the perfect work/life balance. “Whether the gardens need tending or a tour needs guiding, they know that I am committed to the museum staff–and my family supports me,” Gasperecz says. Her 16-yearold son grew up at the houses, thinking that properties were his own personal playrooms. “He is our greatest advocate of our children’s programs,” says Gasperecz, “and we probably tested all of our ideas on him!” Gasperecz is proud that the museums’ educational programs are all inclusive and available to students of varying socio-economic backgrounds. She says, “We strive to reach every type of school in the region. These museums have taught so much about the unique culture and history of New Orleans, reminding us where we came from and where we are headed.” When not on the job, Gasperecz loves cooking for friends and family, in her circa 1880 Uptown shotgun, and stays busy trying to keep up with her son, a sophomore at Isidore Newman School. “His social life puts mine to shame,” she laughs. “It’s amazing to give birth to a New Orleanian, when you’re not from here. It anchors you to the city in a most unique way.”

Hermann-Grima House 820 Saint Louis Street, New Orleans, LA 70112 Gallier House 1132 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70116. 504-274-0746. www.HGGHH.org

Virginia McCollam and Grace Kaynor Sotre

Sotre may be new to Magazine Street but it has found its place on one of the most enjoyable streets in New Orleans. Co-owners Grace Kaynor and Virginia McCollam, along with a talented staff, opened the store in November of 2014. The uniquely curated offerings include a blend of art, jewelry, home furnishings, linens and gifts for all occasions. Grace, an interior designer, saw the need for a store that included both contemporary and vintage items. “The more that I struggled to find pieces that would finish a project—like accessories, small case pieces and mirrors— the more I realized that there was a local demand that was not fully satisfied,” says Grace. She moved her design business into Sotre and now offers her clients the full resources of the store to create custom designs. Virginia is a film professional who has worked with a number of acclaimed designers and set decorators to develop the on-location look of award-winning feature films and cable network shows. Together they share a love of the visual and of the architecture of objects that are both timeless and unusual. “I enjoy working with antiques, especially treasured family items that I am able to settle into a personal space for my clients to enjoy,” says Grace. Sotre is well worth a visit—it is a great visual feast that captures the new, the old and the evolving New Orleans.

Sotre is located at 3933 Magazine St., (504) 304-9475. Women IN Business 25

Kelly Simon mélange by KP

Kelly Simon never gets tired of hearing her customers comment on the environment she’s crafted within her shop, mélange by KP. “People tell us how the sounds and scents and sights make this a total shopping experience. Moms drop their kids off and then just come to browse and relax. They’ll apologize for hanging around when they don’t really need anything. But that’s exactly what I set out to create—a relaxing place that makes you feel good just being here.” That’s precisely how her customers feel, whether they’re taking one of Kelly’s popular Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® classes, picking her brain about how to rethink a room or shopping for the perfect gift. Kelly’s inventory is a cache of vintage and antique treasures, lovingly upcycled by her, and unique offerings from local artisans. There’s furniture, fixtures, home accents and gifts galore. Over the past three years, she’s amassed a following of loyal customers, but new folks still pop in to say, “I keep hearing about your shop and had to come see for myself.” Whether you’re looking for a class on how to repurpose a family heirloom, that perfect accent to finish off a room or just a place to refresh, unwind and visit, Kelly hopes you’ll find it at mélange by KP.

mélange by KP is located at the Turtle Creek Shopping Center, 5200 Hwy. 22, Suite 2, in Mandeville. (985) 807-7652. Mon.-Fri.: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 26

Inside New Orleans

Marta and Elizabeth Bragg The Villa

The women of The Villa fashion boutique are ready to celebrate—after fifteen years in business, they’re continuing the spirit of making each client feel important and remembered. The store is a family affair—Marta Bragg and her daughter, Elizabeth, combine their natural talents in styling with friendly service to provide their customers with a unique shopping experience. “We want our clients to feel at home when they shop with us,” says Marta. “We are constantly evolving and always striving to stay one step ahead. Each visit to our store is new and exciting, with the same quality customer service our clients appreciate.” For its loyal customers, The Villa is a trusted classic where they enjoy a designer selection of clothing and accessories personally tailored to their tastes. “We really listen to our clients and would never force something on them. Don’t buy something that you don’t love,” says Marta. As an added personal touch, they even offer free alterations to ensure the perfect fit. The seamless balance between Marta’s warm personality and Elizabeth’s youthful energy makes The Villa a local favorite. And frequent updates on Facebook and Instagram keep customers up-to-date on new arrivals. Cheers to fifteen years!

The Villa is located at 1281 N. Causeway Blvd. in Mandeville. (985) 626-9797. thevilla-mandeville.com

Dr. Emma Kruger

Metabolic Anti-Aging Center of Louisiana Anthropologist Ashley Montagu once said, “The idea is to die young as late as possible. ”This is the essence of anti-aging and metabolic medicine. “Metabolic medicine is truly for everyone,” says Dr. Emma Kruger. “It is for people who want to improve their performance, be it athletic, intellectual or any other areas of life.” It is also about restoring balances—hormonal and nutritional. “Many of us live with the consequences of hormonal imbalance, such as high cortisol from constant stress, which, in turn, affects many other hormones. High cortisol causes rapid aging, a decline in sex hormones and is a common cause of belly fat.” Dr. Kruger also treats patients with chronic fatigue, depression and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and IBS— as well as those who just don’t feel like themselves. Yet another aspect of Dr. Kruger’s practice is prevention. With genetic testing, we can now identify health problems before they occur and create a preventive regimen. A personalized approach is the key to her patient care.

With extensive training in anti-aging and regenerative medicine, Dr. Kruger combines traditional medicine with holistic, naturopathic and functional approaches in her practice. She says, “Functional medicine finds the root to health problems such as headaches, weight gain, food sensitivities, allergies and toxins by looking at the patient as a whole.” Dr. Kruger founded the Metabolic Anti-Aging Center of Louisiana in Baton Rouge five years ago, which is dedicated to helping patients achieve health and beauty inside and out. The center’s Covington location offers the same personalized comprehensive patient care aimed at disease prevention and treatment of pathologic aging using advanced technologies and treatments to help patients achieve vitality and youthfulness. Pathologic aging is associated with hormonal decline, which often results in an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, osteoporosis, arthritis and dementia. The causes for decline in hormone levels are many, including stress, diet, environment, medications and decreased physical activity. “These problems have a domino effect on the body,” says Dr. Kruger. “Genetic testing allows us to establish an individual plan for each patient to address their specific needs.” In addition to balancing hormones and vitamin deficiencies, the Metabolic Anti-Aging Center provides a full spectrum of aesthetic treatments to help patients obtain a more youthful look, including procedures to stimulate collagen, remove wrinkles and to regenerate the skin and make it supple. Body contouring and vein care, through the most advanced technologies and treatments, help patients obtain a more healthy look. Looking and feeling your best by balancing your hormones and metabolism helps to create a happy, healthy balanced life. By combining medicine and aesthetic procedures, Dr. Kruger helps her patients achieve optimal health and beauty.

Dr. Kruger is located at the Metabolic Anti-Aging Center of Louisiana; 8460 Bluebonnet Blvd., Suite C; Baton Rouge; (225) 767-0646 and 1331 Ochsner Blvd., Suite 101; Covington; (985) 212-7972. maacla.com. Women IN Business 27

Sandy Franco Franco’s on Magazine

For too long, the fitness landscape in New Orleans has needed a jolt … an injection of fresh ideas … a reinvention of the whole workout mojo. That’s exactly what we’ve got with Franco’s on Magazine, a smart, savvy boutique-style fitness studio with a decidedly Euro/New Orleans vibe. Smack in the heart of the Garden District, Franco’s on Magazine is 10,000 square feet of high-tech, high-energy workout with sleek Italian equipment and instructors who speak your fitness language. Much like the city of New Orleans, Franco’s has its own style, a brand of fitness that always includes great music, friendly people and plenty of fun. Recently, we slowed down Sandy Franco, the woman behind the Franco’s brand, just long enough to discover her reasoning behind this exciting new fitness footprint. “New Orleans is known for many great things,” she says. “Unfortunately, healthy living has not always been one of them. We hope to change that—to create a new culture of fitness, a culture where exercising is as much a part of daily life as brushing your teeth.” Of course, this isn’t Sandy’s first foray into the New Orleans fitness scene. She and her husband, Ron, had amassed a loyal following at their Lakeview location until it became just one more victim of Katrina. Over the past ten years, as NOLA was reinventing itself, Sandy and Ron have kept their eyes on things and waited for the right moment to return. “Our region is bursting with incredible new opportunities for fitness fun,” says Sandy. “Abundant, inclusive and creative fitness is beginning to course through the veins of our city. Fitness has morphed beyond treadmills and free weights (though those still work, too). 28

Inside New Orleans

Today’s fitness might be a zombie run or warrior dash, pound workouts with weighted drumsticks or aerial yoga. It might be running through clouds of colorful powder or being a member of a virtual fitness community that spans the globe. We’re excited to be a part of the new fitness movement hitting New Orleans.” Franco’s on Magazine wants to be the epicenter of that movement, and it’s off to a great start. Recently voted the Top Fitness Club in the city, Franco’s on Magazine offers something new and fresh—a friendlier approach to joining a gym. There are no contracts, no obligations; people can choose to work out by the day, the class, the week, or the month. Membership is limited, so there are also no crowds. Franco’s on Magazine is inclusive in that, whatever your style, you can get your workout in one place for one price. Rather than driving all over town for à la carte barre, yoga and cycling classes, members can do all of that and more at Franco’s. Classes, cardio equipment, free-weights and group training are included in membership. So how is it that Sandy Franco has managed to harness the energy of New Orleans’ fitness revolution? “You know the saying, ‘Behind every successful woman are a lot of other women?’” Franco asks. “I am blessed to be surrounded by many passionate, dedicated, hardworking women. [Franco’s on Magazine managers] Christine Scaife and Adreinne Bossa have been an integral part of the creation of this club and the cutting-edge style of fitness that it offers. They represent the new blood that has come to the city since Katrina. It’s a generation breathing life and energy into the Big Easy.”

Franco’s on Magazine is located at 2116 Magazine St., (504) 218-4637. francosmagazinest.com

Susan Zackin Z Event Company

It began with volunteer work. Susan Zackin started her career in event planning while working at an interior design firm in Palm Beach, Florida. “We worked with nonprofits, decorating for their events. That was my first taste of it. I then began volunteering to decorate and organize events.” Vendors in the industry began encouraging Susan to make it her profession. She listened. Z Event Company was born shortly after. With 25 years’ experience, Susan uses her design background to perfectly plan elegant spaces or extravagant events. She says it all begins with getting to know her clients. “First, I want to know what really excites them. After that, the goal is to make them feel like a guest at their own party by creating a beautiful and seamless event with little effort on their part.” Susan offers theme selection, invitations, entertainment, venue selection, catering, décor and florals for all social events. From weddings to corporate functions, she enjoys all aspects of each type of event because for her “it keeps it interesting.” As a bridal consultant, Susan understands that the perfect wedding is different for every couple. She aims to carefully reflect each couple’s style throughout their special day. Susan always looks forward to showing the completed venue to her clients. “Getting to see the expression on my clients’ faces when they walk into a space we decorated will always be my favorite part,” she smiles.

Reach Susan at info@zeventco.com or (800) 714-9050. zeventco.com.

Mary Lou Fewell Shades of Blue, Inc.

After five years on Magazine Street, Mary Lou Fewell recently remodeled and expanded her Shades of Blue showroom to highlight local artists and a vast array of furniture and accessories. She says, “Magazine Street is a wonderful area for a designer because so many locals and visitors alike love to shop here.” Mary Lou named her interior design shop Shades of Blue because, besides being the world’s favorite color, blue is the color of peace and tranquility, it relieves stress and promotes mental relaxation. “People like blues because they are easy colors to be around,” she says. “Blue is a great bedroom color. When clients come home from a hard day at work, they want the serenity blue provides.” For 30 years, Mary Lou has been making clients’ homes comfortable and beautiful—in many colors. Designer Elizabeth Schneider works alongside her on design projects. “Listening to a client’s needs and asking questions about their lifestyle is so important in planning interior spaces that are both useful, practical and pleasing to the eye.” Mary Lou has seen New Orleans design styles evolve over the years from more traditional to transitional, mixing antiques with contemporary pieces of furniture and art.

Shades of Blue, Inc. is located at 3530 Magazine Street, (504) 891-1575. shadesofblueinc.com. Mary Lou Fewell is a licensed interior designer, State #368. Women IN Business 29

Peggy Rodriguez

Heather Burnam

Peggy Rodriguez wants to help you combat fat, because she believes you deserve an ideal body. Peggy began everyBody Wellness in 2007 as a way to continue helping people as a registered nurse while having more flexibility as a mom. Throughout the past eight years, the business has evolved from a wellness studio to a wellness and weight loss studio. “Starting the weight loss side of my business was stimulated by the alarming rate of obesity in our country,” Peggy says. “I believe if we are proactive about our health, we can prevent so many illnesses.” Peggy offers Ideal Protein as a method to help her clients lose weight. “I look forward to seeing my clients as they see the changes that are occurring in their bodies,” she says. “It is personally rewarding, because I know how hard it is to lose weight and to keep it off.” Along with weight loss coaching, Peggy also carries an all-natural skincare line and treatments including Lipomassage, which reduces the appearance of cellulite. The relationships Peggy forms with her clients are important—but she emphasizes another type of relationship to help lose and maintain weight. “I believe your relationship with food and your body is like all of your relationships. You need to pay attention to it and work at it every single day for it to be a healthy one.”

When Heather Burnam’s hair salon coworkers began passing bridal clients to her, she quickly realized that bridal makeup and hair was her passion. She says, “Because it’s the bride’s big day, there’s a lot of pressure doing bridal hair and makeup, but I love making brides feel like a princess on their wedding day.” When she was 18, Heather fell into the beauty industry; by 21, she received her license and began working at a salon. “I loved the industry, but I was always looking for a niche to specialize in,” she says. Flawless Bride began in 2002 and has since won four “Best of Weddings” awards by theknot.com and “Best of the Best” in New Orleans’ hair and makeup from borrowedandblue.com. With 12 years experience, Heather was the first to introduce airbrush makeup into the New Orleans wedding industry. Heather has a team of four who take each bride’s special day very seriously. She and her team travel to whatever location is most comfortable and relaxing for the bride. “We are a tight-knit group who all have the same goal of making the bride look and feel perfect.” When she isn’t making brides picture perfect, Heather is furthering her nonprofit, Kingdom Project. The street ministry makes an effort to feed the homeless, deliver clothes and blankets and visit with the elderly. For Heather, it is important to share her blessings with those less fortunate.

everyBody Weight Loss & Wellness Clinic

everyBody Weight Loss & Wellness Clinic has locations Uptown and in Metairie. 287-8558. peggy@everybodynola.com. 30

Inside New Orleans

Flawless Bride

Heather can be reached at (504) 473-3621. flawless-bride.com.

Inside New Orleans

Wine Cellar

by Bill Kearney

White Burgundy CHARDONNAY. To most of us, that word in the lexicon of wine conjures up vivid images of white wines that possess characteristics of oak and/or butter. There are some truly compelling chardonnay wines from California that have created legions of loyal followers across America. But let me inject into the conversation a few wines for consideration, like Puligny-Montrachet, Meursault, Chablis and Chassagne-Montrachet. Believe it or not, these regions also produce wines from chardonnay grapes that are extraordinary and succulent examples of white wines unique to their own area of the world. And yes, they are all chardonnay. The world of French wine certainly creates confusion for many Americans. We have simplified wine by just referencing the grape, for this brings the instant gratification that we all strive for. But to inject these same parameters into the world of French wine serves as a grave injustice. Tasting chardonnay from Meursault and then trying a Puligny-Montrachet can be as distinctly different as trying to compare two different flavors of snowballs. Travel a few blocks down the road from PulignyMontrachet, and you will encounter the very different wines of Chassagne-Montrachet, whose wines are still chardonnay. The white wines of PulignyMontrachet deliver gorgeous notes of floral characteristics blended with a hedonistic mixture of fruit and cream, while the white wines

of Chassagne-Montrachet have some of the same characteristics but find very pleasant notes of spice. Even more distinctive are the wines of Meursault, which are found to give off wonderful combinations of butter and minerality. To those of you who have patience and room, your experience will be exalted from letting these wines age for a few years so as to achieve their true potential. Many Americans will have heard of Chablis but have never truly encountered the marvelous mixture of lemon and acidity that deliver a jubilant chardonnay experience. Like many wines from France, these outstanding expressions of chardonnay will certainly seem to catapult your wine expenditure into a different monetary category. For those who desire a more moderate financial experience, there are some excellent values in white Burgundy from appellations such as St. Veran and Vire Clese. Many quality producers are making great, previously unparalleled white Bourgogne. For those who do not have the burdensome restrictions of financial parameters, try Montrachet, as it will deliver a life-changing experience. If you love chardonnay, and the lively delivery of oak and butter is pleasurable, keep drinking American chardonnay and leave white Burgundies to others. Irrespective of whether from France or from California, if a wine tastes good to you, it is a good wine. April-May 2015 99

Andrew Cassara.

Gulf Coast Office Products “It was like a blanket of virgin snow, only not the color of snow. It was a blanket of mustard-colored spice as far as the eye could see.” A half-inch of creole seasoning covered the warehouse. It was one of the many companies that co-owners Bill Kenny, CEO, and Bob Walsh and their Gulf Coast Office Products team focused on to get back on their feet in a matter of days after Katrina. Anthony Catalano, vice president, remembers many times of sitting on a cardboard box or folding chair talking to his client about how to start over. “We would just try to help people however we could, even with better pricing, if possible.” For 37 years, Gulf Coast has been helping clients such as the Saints, Pelicans, Ragin’ Cajuns and Tigers increase efficiency and productivity. In addition to helping them find the right office equipment, the Gulf Coast sales team, led by Andrew Cassara, helps companies go paperless to protect their valuable information so they can focus on other important aspects of their business. Andy says, “Anyone can pick up a printer or a copier at the store, but what we bring to the table is the knowledge that comes with it—and our service teams are there to help you beginning the day the machine is installed.”

For increased efficiency and productivity in your office, call Andrew at (504) 432-6511 or visit 5801 River Oaks Rd in New Orleans. 100

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Flourishes 1

1. French Cruller, 11” x 14”

framed oil painting, $350. Jovann Armstrong Fine Art, rarmstrong941@mac.com. 2. Girly Girl, 20” x 16” canvas by Suzanne Guild, $300. LD Linens and Décor, New Orleans, 309-4301. 3. Pewter Grand gold shell food-safe bowl to chill or serve, $198. The French Mix, 3

Covington, 985-809-3152. 4. Tulips 10” x 14” framed acrylic on canvas by Mississippi female artist B.J. Crawford, $300. Ariodante Gallery, New Orleans, 524-3233. 5. Fluorite butterfly on watermelon tourmaline specimen, $400; rock crystal dragonfly on emerald specimen, $500; fluorite dragonfly on lace amethyst specimen, $500. Arabella Fine Gifts and Home Décor, Mandeville, 985-727-9787.

6. Aqua 11” virtue vase with decorative lace, $55. Abode, Metairie, 266-2135. 7. Hooker

Furniture Living Room Sanctuary three-drawer bombe chest 41¾”

w x 18 ¾” d x 35” h; $1,298.88. American Factory Direct, Mandeville, 985-871-0300.

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Flourishes 1. Newberry pendant chandelier with stippled gold metal overlay

on cream linen shade, $295.

melange by KP, Mandeville, 985-807-7652. 2. Illuminated map of New Orleans by the Mississippi River, Phoenix Rising by Carol Peebles. HermannGrima + Gallier Historic Houses, hgghh.org. 3. Elemental Herbology Age Support Eye Elixir eye cream, $66; BioCellular Super Cleanse facial

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cleanser, $52; Cell Food facial serum, $84. Shine Spa, New Orleans, 486-0999. 4. Artistically crafted ceramic Loftin Oysters cooking stoneware, one dozen, $65. Hazelnut, New Orleans, 891-2424. 5. Mother’s Day Macaron Collection: Lavender Blueberry and White Chocolate Rose, $31.50. Sucré, shopsucre.com. 6. 109” large formal bronze fountain. Fischer Gambino, New Orleans,

524-9067. 7. Mid-century handkerchief planter by Willy Guhl, $1,500. St. Romain Interiors, Madisonville, 6

985-845-7411.

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Flourishes 1. 24” Governor pool house lantern available in brushed stainless or antique copper, $700. Bevolo Gas & Electric

3 1

Lights, New Orleans, 522-9485. 2. L’Ange Rouge Lithograph from the ceiling of the Paris Opera 4

House framed, $600. Elliott Gallery, New Orleans, 523-3554. 3. Days and Nights in the Dreamy City by Mary Fitzpatrick and Virginia McCollam, $25. Preservation Resource Center, 581-7032. 4. Custom gift baskets for all occasions hand-delivered and shipped, starting at $25. The Basketry, New Orleans, 5

309-7935. 5. Organic shaped metal bowl with gold, $65. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, 985-624-4045. 6. Bryson 12” round end table, $125; Bryson 17” end table, $155. The Pool & Patio Center, Metairie, 837-2022. 7. 18” x 18” animal throw pillows with more than 75 different image options, $35. Outdoor Living Center, Covington,

985-893-8008.

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Trade Secrets

by Trudy Hurley

The Well-Appointed Guest Room TIME FOR AN OVERNIGHT TRIP! Pack a bag and head down the hall to your guest bedroom. You really need to spend the night in your guest room to understand its strengths and weaknesses. Follow these tips to be the hostess with the mostess and treat your guests to all the amenities of their favorite bed and breakfast. Let’s start with the mattress and bed linens. Don’t relegate your teenage daughter’s 15-year-old mattress to the guest bedroom. You know, the one with the ditch-like dip in the middle? If you can’t manage a new mattress at the moment, at least provide a nice mattress topper and pad. Then, invest in one set of luxurious high-thread count cotton sheets. Beautiful linens can set you back a bit, so remember your guest bedroom when you happen upon a good white sale. Designate that one set for the guest bedroom so it stays crisp and fresh. Pillows, on the other hand, are inexpensive enough to always have fresh, plump ones on hand. To protect the investment you just made in your fine linens, provide your guests with a folding luggage rack. Just imagine where that suitcase has been! Rolling through filthy airport terminals, sliding down luggage carousels, stuffed in the trunk of a vile taxi cab—and then plopped on top of your beautiful new duvet! Let’s move from the bed to the bedside table and its accessories. Sufficient lamplight for reading is essential. A carafe of water is a nice old-school touch, but bottled water is adequate. A guest would be thrilled with a little jar of chocolates or nuts for a midnight snack. I’m aware that most people these days wake up to the alarm on their cell phone, but a pretty little clock is always charming. Books and magazines are also a wonderful treat in a guest room—from beautiful coffee-table books about our fair city and its fascinating customs and landmarks to a recent gossip 106

Inside New Orleans

magazine brimming with Kardashian rumors. What is more welcoming than fresh flowers? Whether you stop at the florist for something really special or simply gather a few blooms from the yard, even a single bud adds life and beauty to any room and will always be appreciated by your guests. But err on the side of under-scenting. Overpowering lilies and bold potpourri (who still uses potpourri?) can ruin an allergy-sensitive guest’s vacation. Remember, one person’s scented candle is another’s migraine headache. Well-mannered guests never want to feel intrusive, so always leave a stack of fluffy white towels at the end of the bed or on the bathroom counter so that they need not go digging. They may never be so bold as to ask you to borrow your razor when they realize they have left theirs behind, so putting together a little basket of toiletries is such a gracious goody. Don’t just set out the mismatched bottles of shampoo you’ve heisted from the hotel on your last family vacation, but rather, shop for miniature essentials from the travel section of your corner drug store. Clearing a foot or two of hanging space in the closet and providing empty hangers (never the wire ones—think Joan Crawford!) will accommodate your guests’ unpacking needs. Now let’s flip it around. If someone is hosting you, make sure you’re a good guest who will be welcomed back. Good guests don’t arrive empty handed. It doesn’t need to be expensive—a candle, sweets, or something from your hometown—but be thoughtful and bring your hostess a token gift. When you go out to dinner, pick up the check. If you eat at home, help with the dishes. Keep the room tidy, and on the day you leave, strip the bed and leave the bed linens and towels in the laundry room. Finally, a written thank-you note the minute you get home will insure an invitation to return.

Protect your linens and

Fresh flowers, water, a snack, reading material

furniture from a dirty

and pretty little clock are the warm personal

duffle, by providing a

touches that make guests feel welcome.

luggage rack that can easily be tucked away under the

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

bed until the next visit.

Fresh towels and a few

Sufficient lamplight is a

Luxurious linens. “Some of my

arranged toiletries left in the

must for your visitor’s

favorite linen lines are milled in Italy

bedroom or on the bathroom

late night reading or

or Portugal. You will pay a little

counter will prevent your

simply for finding their

more for quality linens, but the feel

guest from feeling intrusive by

way in an unfamiliar

and look will last for years.”

pilfering your cabinets.

room at night.

– Jenny Mutter, Hestia Linens April-May 2015 107

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Inside New Orleans

INside Look Blue Believer 1. 14kt yellow gold pendant

with 17.11ct cushion cut aqua chalcedony and .16 cttw of white diamonds and .35 cttw of champagne diamonds, $2,490.

Boudreauxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fine Jewelers, Metairie, 831-2602. 2. Handhammered brass cuff wrapped in aqua leather with hand-stitching,

semi-precious stones and pearl detail, $295. Sotre, New Orleans, 304-9475. 3. Avero paradise blue bra and panty with flower embellishments by Marie Jo; bra, $125; panty, $56. Bra la Vie, Hammond, 985-662-5065. 4. Lilly Pulitzer Bentley Shift in Poolside Blue with gold lace details, $188. Palm Village, a Lilly Pulitzer

signature store, Mandeville, 985-778-2547. 5. Chiffon A-line dress with illusion bateau neckline,

$518. The Bridal Boutique by MaeMe, Metairie, 266-2771. 6. Aqua Terracotta silk essence gown with diamond jewels by Montage Boutique, $480. Bustles and Bows, Metairie, 780-7090. 7. Mystique Swim Separates by Skye with removable straps, available in several prints and S-XL,

$80; coordinating ruffle-skirted bottom, $66. Bra Genie, Mandeville, 985-951-8638. 8. Aqua frames with pink temple tips handmade in Italy by Patty Paillette, $485. Art & Eyes, New Orleans, 891-4494. 9. Tory Burch Rivera Flat Espadrille

in Emerald Stone, $185. Emmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shoes and Accessories; New Orleans, 504-407-0668; Mandeville, 985-778-2200.

April-May 2015 109

INside Look Blue Believer

1. 18kt white gold, sapphire and diamond necklace. Adlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, New Orleans, 5235292. 2. Pure silk Joie geometric print dress with a

flirty cropped overlay, $268. FeBe, Metairie, 835-5250. 3. Traveler multicolored plaid button-down shirt, $60; blue

cashmere and cotton blend long-sleeve sweater, $125. Jos. A. Bank, Covington, 4

985-624-4067. 4. Eton dress shirts, $265; Eton knit ties, $150. Rubensteins, New Orleans, 581-6666. 5. Heather jersey Montecito zip-front dress in blue, $160.

kevanhallsport.com. 6. Hydro Peptide Skin Products, $36-$96. Sculpting Center of New Orleans, Metairie, 309-9456. 7. Easy-to-wear blue sandals,

$154.95. Foot Solutions, Metairie, 833-3555.

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April-May 2015 111

112

Inside New Orleans

INside Look

Blue Believer 1. Athena multicolored scarves,

$50; Seafolly sunglasses, $86; Ipanema flip-flops, $25. Basics Swim & Gym, New Orleans, 891-1000. 2. 2.95 ct Burmese ruby surrounded by 24 diamonds, $10,450. Symmetry Jewelers and Designers, New Orleans, 861-9925. 3. 4 Love & Liberty mesh hemmed slip in antique white, $60; JWLA Maddy linen wide-leg overalls, $268.

Je T’aime Nola, New Orleans, 309-6028. 4. BCBG Hayden

printed shift dress in shadow blue, $178. The Villa, Mandeville, 985-626-9797. 5. SeeByChloé

sky gray Lizzie backpack, $495. Emma’s Shoes and Accessories; New Orleans, 504-407-0668; Mandeville, 985-778-2200. 6. Waregarden Studio bracelets by Brandi Couvillion, $140–$210. The Shop at The Collection, The Historic New Orleans Collection, New Orleans, 598-7147.

April-May 2015 113

Living Her Dream Deanie’s Barbara Anselmo Chifici

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Inside New Orleans

BARBARA CHIFICI LOVED TO STAND next to her grandmother as she cooked. “I am not tall,” says 5-foot-1½-inch Chifici, but I felt like a giant next to my grandmother, who was only 4 feet 3 inches!” What her grandmother lacked in stature, she made up for with her big recipes. “My grandmother was a great cook, but she never wrote anything down,” says Chifici. “If you asked for a recipe, she would always say ‘it is just a pinch of this and a pinch of that’—but that was not always accurate. One pinch could be a handful. So the only way to get a recipe was to watch her every move as she cooked.” Born into a restaurant family, the young Barbara was determined to become a great cook. Now, she is an award-winning chef who heads one of the most successful womenowned businesses in New Orleans—Deanie’s. With more than 200 employees and 1 million customers annually, Deanie’s is one of the area’s top seafood restaurants.

photo courtesy: BARBARA ANSEL MO CHIFICI

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

by Anne Honeywell

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Deanie’s in the French Quarter.

photo courtesy: DEANIE’S SEAFOOD

At 19, Barbara married Frank Angelo Chifici, moving with him to Paris, where he studied at Le Cordon Bleu. The Chificis opened several successful restaurants, including Chifici’s in Uptown and Gromboli in Metairie. “It was Frank’s dream to own a big restaurant. So when the opportunity presented itself for us to buy Deanie’s we jumped on it,” says Barbara. On April 26, 1982, Frank, Barbara and a few other investors purchased Deanie’s, the oldest restaurant in Metairie’s Bucktown. Deanie’s nailed the long-term recipe for restaurant success in this city: large portions of delicious traditional New Orleans food at reasonable prices. Barbara created Deanie’s Signature Creole Seasonings, custom spice blends used in the restaurants and ultimately sold around the world. Three years later, Frank died of cancer, leaving Barbara >>

April-May 2015 115

a widow with seven children; the oldest being 20 and the youngest 7 years old. She says, “I do believe God only gives you as much as you can handle, but there were days when I would wonder if I could do it. In the beginning, I was just going through the motions. If you had told me years before that I would be a widow with seven children and a business to run, I would have said ‘no way, not me.’ I never could have imagined it.” Barbara immersed herself in taking care of her family and the restaurant. “Once I got into the business, that was it. It was in my blood, in my veins.” She bought out her investors and began expanding the business. Deanie’s consisted of a seafood market, catering and a restaurant. Barbara has expanded the market to include shipping seafood and Louisiana specialty items throughout the United States. She has continued to innovate, adding shopdeanies.com, an online retail seafood website; Deanie’s “New Orleans to You” charbroiled oyster kit is sold by Sam’s and Costco. Barbara turned concert promoter, creating the annual Pinch a Palooza, a crawfish extravaganza, in the spring of 2009 and Buck-tober Fest, free Friday concerts, in the fall. In 2014, Deanie’s became the first restaurant in New Orleans to earn the Certified Louisiana Wild Seafood designation from the Department of Wildlife & Fisheries; in 2013, The American Culinary Federation named Barbara to Best Chefs of Louisiana. Barbara’s relationships with her children are as successful as her restaurant business. All seven of her children work with her in some capacity, together as a family in support of their mother and father’s 116

Inside New Orleans

photo: SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

photo courtesy: DEA NIE’S SEAFOOD

photo: LOUPE PHOTOGRAPHY

dream. “We all pull together and help when and where help is needed. My son Garrett has his doctorate in pharmacy, but when he has time off on the weekends, he works in the restaurant. Most of the kids work in the management of the restaurants and businesses.” Chifici always knew someday she wanted a place in the French Quarter. She looked and looked for the right property, finally finding just the right spot at Iberville and Dauphine. “All seven of my kids came with me to the bank to sign the papers for the new French Quarter location. My attorney and two bank officers were in the room as well. My oldest son stood up and asked them to please leave the room so that he and his siblings could speak to their mother in private. The three gentlemen left, and

my children asked me, ‘Momma why? Why do you want to do this and risk everything you have to open another Deanie’s in the French Quarter?’ I calmly answered them firmly. ‘Deanie’s on the lake was your father’s dream. Having a place in the French Quarter is my dream. Now call those men back into this room ’cause Momma is signing!’” Deanie’s in the French Quarter opened in 2001. Barbara’s dream was a great one. “It was a good move. Definitely the right choice and what we needed to do. It has all paid off in the end. I am living my dream now.”

The Chifici children.

Pinch a Palooza Festival & Crawfish Eating Contest Deanie’s in Bucktown 1713 Lake Ave. Sunday, April 19 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Crawfish, six bands, kids’ games, art and more. Admission is free. For more information, go to pinchapalooza.com. April-May 2015 117

IN the Spotlight Bombay Club & Martini Bistro Grand Opening

Photos: CHERYL GER BER PHOTOGRAP HY

Bagpipes played as guests arrived for the reopening of the Bombay Club & Martini Bistro on Rue Conti Street. In conjunction with the Battle of New Orleans bicentennial celebration, the club hosted Her Britannic Majestyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Consul General Andrew Millar as revered guest of the evening. Chef Nathan Richard served hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres and bites of his new quasi-British menu as Blake Kaiser shook cocktails throughout the evening. Now operated by Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts, the beautifully renovated environment will house cabaret performers, jazz musicians and small ensembles seven nights a week.

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Inside New Orleans

INside Peek 1. Delta Gamma alumnae Cherie Moore,

Missy Quigley, Rachel Kiedrowski and Jessica Sens enjoying king cake with Loyola collegiate members. 2. Cheryn Robles, Courtney Lane and Sally Forman. 3. Denise Schimek, Gretchen Elms and Margie Breeden of the Thursday Afternoon Social Society celebrating their annual Mardi Gras lunch at Galatoire’s. 4. Alma Dunlap, Barbara Claiborne and Genie Schoenfeld. 5. Caroline Nelson, Ashely Arnold, Ellen

Curry and Lauren Murphy at Commander’s Palace for an Athenian’s Queens’ luncheon.

6. Dillard’s Lakeside Mike Jones and Steven Crossley presenting Ronald McDonald House Charity New Orleans Executive Director Janet Goforth with a donation of sales from the 2014 Southern Living Christmas Cookbook. 7. Hayley Childress, 5

Susan LaMoreaux and Julie Childress at Ochsner’s King Cake Festival. 8. Merry Sorrells and Tim Williamson at The Michael Edward Wanek Memorial Lecture at St. Martin’s Episcopal 6

School. 9. Cindy Cocke, Chance Brignac, and Sandy Blum of Shine Spa at their Himalayan Salt event

April-May 2015 119

INside Peek 1. Dr. Cynthia Benbow, Dione Duhon

and Nadine McCoy at the American Business Women’s Association Luncheon. 2. Kim Levan, Paolo Fabrizio, Hayley Logan, Jeanne Emory and Sarah Brauner at Bra Genie’s Lingerie Market at Curve NYC. 3. Roger Ogden, Jim Resko and Richard Gasperi at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s

book launch of Clementine Hunter: A Sketchbook. 4. Bradley Sumrall, Bobbye Carraway and Becky Collins enjoying the book launch. 5. Edith Catching, Grace Hagen, Gretchen 4

Armbruster, Kathleen Robert and Denise Woodward as Gretchen presents Cancer Crusaders with a donation from students of the Armbruster Artworks

Holiday Art Exhibit. 6. Triumph Krava Maga Worldwide students and instructors at a handgun defense seminar. 7. Charlotte and Darrin Piotrowski at the Opera Ball. 8. Col. John B. Dunlap III with his daughter Emily at the Grand Military Ball of the Society of the War of 1812 in the state of Louisiana at the New

Orleans Country Club. 6 8

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Inside New Orleans

IN the Spotlight

photos courtesy: WYES

An Afternoon Tea with WYES Inspired by Downton Abbey In the spirit of Downton Abbey, at “An Afternoon Tea with WYES,” ladies dressed in hats and strands of pearls sipped champagne and tea in the splendor of the Edwardian era at the home of Jennifer and Fred Heebe. While enjoying music of the period, played by pianist Bill Malchow, guests could have a picture taken in front of “Highclere Castle,” say hello to “Mrs. Patmore” in the Heebe’s kitchen and bid on a wide variety of special silent auction items. Among the auction offerings were a framed watercolor by Patrick Waldemar, a hat by Haute Dames Couture Milliners, a necklace and chandelier earrings from Monique Lafontaine, Friends of Music subscriptions and concert tickets, a Delta travel voucher, a JPAS basket and season, an apron and coin purse, a faux mink throw, framed art by Terrance Osborne, a Beth Cristina purse and wallet, wood box, shoes from Good Feet and gift certificates from Patois and Desi Vega’s Steakhouse. Jewelry showcased by models was available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting WYES. For the raffle, Ken and Nina Friend of Friend & Co. donated a Victorian mourning necklace. Guests at the Patron Champagne Reception before the tea enjoyed passed hors-d’oeuvres and received a special Downton Abbey-themed gift. The WYES benefit was chaired by Jean Rice; Monarch-level sponsors were First Bank & Trust and Russ and Sandra Herman. April-May 2015 121

INside Peek

1 1. Hillary Miller, Grace Kaynor and Heather Burglass at Sotreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happy hour event featuring Beauty Counter products. 2. Brooke LeBourgeois and Susan Wormser. 3. Becky Vizard, Bryan Batt and Kathleen Van Horn at Maureen Footerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book signing at Hazelnut on Magazine Street. 4. Roxie St. Martin and Maureen Footer.

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1. Becket Becnel, Jill Nalty, Kathryn Becnel, Morgan Nalty, Dathel Georges, John Georges, Janette Kalifeh and Mitch Kalifeh celebrating Mardi Gras at Cloud 9 in Aspen, Colorado. 2. Beth Depass, Desane Blaney and Kevan Hall at 2015 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida. 3. Dr. Chip Curtis, D.C. and Lacey Toledano at All American Healthcareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grand opening in Covington. 4. Trish and Matthew Trahan with their daughter Stella Rose.

IN the Spotlight Inside New Orleans Meet the Artist Party It was a quintessential New Orleans evening for Inside New Orleansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Meet the Artist Party. Held outdoors at The Rusty Nail, hundreds of guests gathered to enjoy crawfish, potatoes and corn from NOLA Boil and dogs from Lucky Dogs. String lights and heaters kept partygoers warm and festive throughout the evening as cover artist Gretchen Armbruster shared her works under a covered porch well lit for her admirers. Murphy Appraisal sponsored the beautiful evening in the warehouse district of New Orleans.

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Inside New Orleans

IN the Spotlight Amazing Grapes

Photos: HAROLD SPINNER NEWORLEANSLOCAL.COM

Guests gathered in the Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses courtyard and at the Broussard’s Restaurant property for this year’s successful Amazing Grapes wine auction. Chaired by Elise Merlin and Pierce Young, the celebration auctioned fine wines to ensure greater access to the museum’s education programs. Bizou Wines and Broussard’s Restaurant served delectable food and wine throughout the evening. This year’s event featured more than 65 different wines.

April-May 2015 125

PHY & VID PHOTOGRA IKE POSEY photo: M

IN the Spotlight

126

Inside New Orleans

SEY PHOTO photo: MIKE PO

From the Twelfth Night Revelers to Rex and the Mystick Krewe of Comus, Carnival 2015 was a ball! Here’s one last peek at some of our readers’ favorite moments from the season. They spotlight the Krewes of Athenians, Bacchus, Caliphs of Cairo, Prophets of Persia, Dorians and Hermes.

EO GRAPHY & VID

Carnival Revelry

IN Great Taste

by Yvette Jemison

Egg-adorned Sensations EGG LOVERS, REJOICE! Egg-adorned food is an easy way to turn an everyday dish into a fabulous taste sensation. Not only does adding an egg make a striking presentation, but the yolk, whether runny or hard boiled, offers a lovely contrast in texture. Enjoy the flavor combinations of these egg-adorned recipes.

Poached Eggs with Creamy Grits, Caramelized Onions and Bacon Southern-style grits and poached eggs are layered with the rich flavor of caramelized onions and bacon in this incredibly flavorful and filling breakfast. Grits 1 cup stone ground grits 2 cups chicken broth photos courtesy: YVETTE JEMISON

2 cups heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon salt

In a heavy-bottomed pot, stir the grits, chicken broth and cream together on medium-high heat. Stir frequently. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. >> April-May 2015 127

the heated water. Continue with the remaining eggs. Cook for 4 minutes and remove the eggs with a slotted spoon. Spoon grits onto 6 plates. Top the grits with caramelized onions and crumbled bacon. Top each serving with a poached egg and add salt and pepper to taste.

Eggs in Purgatory on a Boudin Patty

Cover and simmer until all of the liquid is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Caramelized Onions

Eggs in Purgatory is a simple dish of poached eggs in a tomato sauce. I usually prepare this dish with Skipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Orleans Style Red Gravy, but your favorite marinara or pasta sauce can be used. Serving the poached eggs on a crispy boudin patty makes for a great breakfast, lunch or anytime meal.

1/2 lb. bacon 2 tablespoons bacon drippings

1 lb. boudin sausage

1 1/2 lbs (about 8 cups) sliced onions

1 tablespoon olive oil 3 cups Skipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Orleans Style Red

Poached Eggs 6 large eggs salt and pepper to taste

Fill a saucepan with 3 inches of water and bring to a boil. Reduce to a low simmer with very few bubbles moving the heated water. Crack an egg into a fine mesh sieve to strain out the thinner whites. Slowly slide the egg into

Gravy or marinara/pasta sauce 4 eggs 1 tablespoon chopped green onions

Remove the casing from the boudin and shape into 4 patties. Heat the olive oil in a skillet on medium-high heat. Place the patties in the heated oil and brown on both sides. Remove the patties and set on paper towels. Reserve the drippings and any small bits in the skillet. Pour the marinara/pasta sauce into the skillet with the drippings. Heat until the sauce comes to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Use a spoon to make a well in the sauce. Break an egg into the well. Continue with the remaining eggs. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the eggs are done to your taste. Spoon the sauce onto 4 plates and set the patties atop the sauce. Spoon a small amount of sauce on each patty. Top each patty with an egg and garnish with green onions.

photo courtesy: YVETTE JEMISON

In a large skillet, cook the bacon on medium-high heat until browned and crispy on both sides. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate. Crumble the bacon when cool enough to handle. Drain and reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings from the skillet. Heat the reserved bacon drippings on medium heat and add the sliced onions. Stir to coat the onions. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir occasionally until the onions are completely soft and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.

INside Dining New Orleans is home to more great restauruants than we could hope to list here. For a comprehensive listing of restaurants in the New Orleans metro area, please refer to Tom Fizmorris’ nomenu.com. In this guide, you will find some of the best bets around town. Tom’s fleur de lis ratings are shown. CARROLLTON, RIVERBEND AND BROADMOOR Babylon Café aaa Middle Eastern, 7724 Maple St., 504-314-0010 Barcelona Tapas aaa Spanish, 720 Dublin St., 504-861-9696 Basil Leaf aaa Thai, 1438 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-862-9001 Boucherie aaaa Southern Barbecue, 1506 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-862-5514 Brigtsen’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 723 Dante St., 504-861-7610 Café Niño aaa Pizza, 1510 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-865-9200 Chiba aaa Japanese, 8312 Oak St., 504-826-9119 Ciro’s Cote Sud aaa French, 7918

The Gumbo Shop has won “Best Gumbo in N.O.” for several years running, but you can also enjoy other New Orleans favorites at the centrally located French Quarter restaurant. Grilled boudin, sautéed shrimp po-boys, chicken Espagnole, artichoke soup and creole creamed spinach can also be found on the menu. 630 Saint Peter St., 525-1486, gumboshop.com. 504-314-1810 Sara’s aaa Pan-Asian, 724 Dublin St., 504-861-0565 Squeal Barbecue aa Barbecue, 8400 Oak St., 504-302-7370 Vincent’s aaaa Italian, 7839 St. Charles Ave., 504-866-9313 Ye Olde College Inn aaa Neighborhood Café, 3016 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-866-3683

Maple St., 504-866-9551 Cooter Brown’s Tavern aaa Sandwiches, 509 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-866-9104 Cowbell aa Hamburgers, 1200 Eagle St., 504-866-4222 Dante’s Kitchen aaaa Eclectic, 736 Dante St., 504-861-3121 Hana aaa Japanese, 8116 Hampson, 504-865-1634 Jacques-Imo’s aaa Cajun, 8324 Oak St., 504-861-0886 Lebanon’s Café aaa Middle Eastern, 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-862-6200 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen aaa Pizza, 615 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-866-5900 Maple Street Café aaa Creole Italian, 7623 Maple St., 504-314-9003 Mat & Naddie’s aaaa Eclectic, 937 Leonidas St., 504-861-9600 Mikimoto aaaa Japanese, 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-1881 Mona’s Café aa Middle Eastern, 1120 S. Carrollton Ave., 504861-8174 Panchita’s aaa Central American, 1434 S. Carrollton Ave., 504281-4127 Pupuseria La Macarena aaa Central American, 8120 Hampson St., 504-862-5252 Riccobono’s Panola Street Café

aa Breakfast, 7801 Panola St.,11.

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT Blue Room aaa American, 123 Baronne, Roosevelt Hotel. 504648-1200 Bon Ton Café aaa Cajun, 401 Magazine St., 504-524-3386 Borgne aaa Seafood, 601 Loyola Ave. (Hyatt Regency Hotel), 504613-3860 Café Adelaide aaaa Contemporary Creole, 300 Poydras St., 504595-3305 Chophouse aaa Steak, 322 Magazine St., 504-522-7902 Desi Vega’s aaaa Steak, 628 St. Charles Ave., 504-523-7600 Domenica aaaa Italian, 123 Baronne St. (Roosevelt Hotel), 504-648-6020 Drago’s aaaa Seafood, 2 Poydras St., 504-584-3911 Herbsaint aaaa Creole French, 701 St. Charles Ave., 504-524-4114 Horinoya aaa Japanese, 920 Poydras St., 504-561-8914 Le Foret aaaaa French, 129 Camp St., 504-553-6738 Liborio aaa Cuban, 321 Magazine St., 504-581-9680 Lucky Rooster aaa Pan-Asian, 515 Baronne St., 504-529-5825 Lüke aaa French, 333 St. Charles Ave., 504-378-2840 MiLa aaaa Eclectic, 817 Common >>

April-May 2015 129

St., 504-412-2580

Nola aaaa Contemporary Creole,

Morton’s The Steakhouse aaa

534 St. Louis St., 504-522-6652

Steak, 365 Canal St. (Canal Place

Ole Saint Southern Coastal, 132

Mall), 504-566-0221

Royal St., 504-309-4797

Mother’s aaa Sandwiches, 401

Orleans Grapevine aaa

Poydras St., 504-523-9656

Contemporary Creole, 720

Restaurant August aaaaa

Orleans Ave., 504-523-1930

Eclectic, 301 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-299-9777 Ruby Slipper Café aaa Breakfast,

Palace Café aaa Contemporary Enjoy an authentic Louisiana Pizza Kitchen experience in

Neighborhood Café, 200

the French Quarter; all meat and

Magazine St., 504-525-9355

poultry are organic and free-range.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House aaa Steak, 525 Fulton St., 504-587-7099 Windsor Court Grill Room aaa American, 300 Gravier St., 504522-1994

Louisiana Pizza Kitchen has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence three years in a row.

AND GENTILLY Liuzza’s By The Track aaa Neighborhood Café, 1518 N. Lopez St., 504-218-7888 Lola’s aaa Spanish, 3312 Esplanade Ave., 504-488-6946 Sammy’s Food Service aaa Neighborhood Café, 3000 Elysian Fields Ave., 504-947-0675 Santa Fe aaa Mexican, 3201 Esplanade Ave., 504-948-0077

Acme Oyster House aaa Seafood, 724 Iberville St., 504-522-5973 Antoine’s aaaa Creole French, 713 St. Louis St., 504-581-4422 Arnaud’s aaaa Creole French, 813 Bienville St., 504-523-5433 Attiki Middle Eastern, 230 Decatur St., 504-587-3756 Bayona aaaa Eclectic, 430 Dauphine St., 504-525-4455 Bombay Club aaa Contemporary Creole, 830 Conti St., 504-5860972 Bourbon House aaa Seafood, 144 Bourbon St., 504-522-0111 Brennan’s Contemporary Creole, 417 Royal St., 504-525-9711 Broussard’s aaaa Creole French, 819 Conti St., 504-581-3866 Café Giovanni aaaa Creole Italian, 117 Decatur St., 504-529-2154 Court of Two Sisters aaa Creole French, 613 Royal St., 504-522-7273 Crescent City Brewhouse aaa Pub Food, 527 Decatur St., 504522-0571 Criollo aaa Creole French, 214 Royal St., 504-523-3341 Deanie’s Seafood Seafood, 841 Iberville St., 504-581-1316 Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse

130

Esplanade Ave., 504-523-0120 R’evolution aaaa Creole French,

tasting Creole and Italian dining. 95

Hotel), 504-553-2277

lpkfrenchquarter.com. Eat aaa Neighborhood Café, 900 Dumaine St., 504-522-7222 El Gato Negro aaa Mexican, 81 French Market Place, 504-525-9752 Frank’s aaa Creole Italian, 933 Decatur St., 504-525-1602 Galatoire’s aaaa Creole French, 209 Bourbon St., 504-525-2021 Galatoire’s 33 Bar & Steak aaa Steak, 215 Bourbon St., 504Galvez aaaa Spanish, 914 N. Peters St., 504-595-3400 Gumbo Shop aaa Creole, 630 St. Peter St., 504-525-1486 GW Fins aaaa Seafood, 808 Bienville St., 504-581-3467 Irene’s Cuisine aaaa Italian, 539 St. Philip St., 504-529-8811 K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen aaaa Cajun, 416 Chartres St., 504524-7394 Kingfish aaaa Cajun, 337 Chartres St., 504-598-5005 Louisiana Bistro aaa Contemporary Creole, 337 Dauphine St., 504-525-3335 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen aaa Pizza, 95 French Market Place, 504-522-9500 Maximo’s Italian Grill aaaa Italian, 1117 Decatur St., 504-586-8883 Meauxbar aaaa French, 942 N. Rampart St., 504-569-9979 Mr. B’s Bistro aaaa Contemporary Creole, 201 Royal St., 504-5232078 Muriel’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 801 Chartres St., 504568-1885 Napoleon House aa Sandwiches, 500 Chartres St., 504-524-9752 New Orleans Hamburger &

aaa Steak, 716 Iberville St.,

Seafood Co. aa Sandwiches,

504-522-2467

541 Decatur St., 504-309-7902

Inside New Orleans

Exchange Place, 504-523-1504 Port of Call aaa Hamburgers, 838

Sip casually in your jeans while

335-3932 FRENCH QUARTER

Contemporary Creole, 312

777 Bienville (in the Royal Sonesta

French Market Place, 522-9500, ESPLANADE RIDGE

Creole, 605 Canal St., 504-523-1661 Pelican Club aaaaa

Red Fish Grill aaa Seafood, 115

El Gato Negro aaa Mexican, 300 Harrison Ave., 504-488-0107 Lakeview Harbor aaa Hamburgers, 911 Harrison Ave., 504-486-4887 Mondo aaa Eclectic, 900 Harrison Ave., 504-224-2633 Munch Factory aaa Contemporary Creole, 6325 Elysian Fields Ave., 504-324-5372 Ralph’s On The Park aaaa Contemporary Creole, 900 City Park Ave., 504-488-1000 Steak Knife aaa Contemporary Creole, 888 Harrison Ave., 504488-8981 Tony Angello’s aaa Creole Italian, 6262 Fleur de Lis Dr., 504-488-0888

Bourbon St., 504-598-1200 MARIGNY

Rib Room aaa American, 621 St. Louis St., 504-529-7045 Royal House aaa Seafood, 441 Royal St., 504-528-2601 SoBou aaa Contemporary Creole, 310 Chartres St., 504-552-4095 Stanley aa Breakfast, 547 St. Ann St., 504-587-0093 Sylvain aaa American Gourmet, 625 Chartres St., 504-265-8123 Tujague’s aaa Creole, 823 Decatur St., 504-525-8676

Adolfo’s aa Italian, 611 Frenchmen St., 504-948-3800 Feelings aaa Creole French, 2600 Chartres St., 504-945-2222 Franklin,aaa, Creole French, 2600 Dauphine. 504-267-0640 Mona’s Café,aa, Middle Eastern, 504 Frenchmen St., 504-9494115 Praline Connection aa Creole, 542 Frenchmen St., 504-943-3934 Ruby Slipper Café aaa Breakfast,

GARDEN DISTRICT Commander’s Palace aaaaa Contemporary Creole, 1403 Washington Ave., 504-899-8221 Coquette aaaa Creole French, 2800 Magazine St., 504-265-0421 Delmonico aaaa Contemporary Creole, 1300 St. Charles Ave.,

Neighborhood Café, 2001 Burgundy St., 504-525-9355 Snug Harbor aaa American, 626 Frenchmen St., 504-949-0696 Sukho Thai aaa Thai, 1913 Royal St., 504-948-9309 Wasabi aaa Japanese, 900 Frenchmen St., 504-943-9433

504-525-4937 Juan’s Flying Burrito aaa Mexican, 2018 Magazine St., 504-569-0000 Miyako aaa Japanese, 1403 St. Charles Ave., 504-410-9997 Mr. John’s Steakhouse aaaa Steak, 2111 St. Charles Ave., 504-679-7697 Sake Café aaa Japanese, 2830 Magazine St., 504-894-0033 Slice aaa Pizza, 1513 St. Charles Ave., 504-525-7437 Stein’s Deli aaa Deli, 2207 Magazine St., 504-527-0771 Sushi Brothers aaa Japanese, 1612 St. Charles Ave., 504-581-4449 Tracey’s aaa Sandwiches, 2604 Magazine St., 504-897-5413 Zea aaa American, 1525 St. Charles Ave., 504-520-8100

METAIRIE Acme Oyster House aaa Seafood, 3000 Veterans Blvd., 504-309-4056 Acropolis Cuisine aaa Greek, 3841 Veterans Blvd., 504-888-9046 Andrea’s aa Italian, 3100 19th St., 504-834-8583 Andy’s Bistro aaa American, 3322 N. Turnbull Dr., 504-455-7363 Austin’s aaaa Creole, 5101 West Esplanade Ave., 504-888-5533 Byblos Market aa Middle Eastern, 2020 Veterans Blvd., 504-837-9777 Café East aaa Pan-Asian, 4628 Rye St., 504-888-0078 Café Equator aaa Thai, 2920 Severn Ave., 504-888-4772 Carreta’s Grill a Mexican, 2320 Veterans Blvd., 504-837-6696; 1821 Hickory Ave., Harahan, 504-

LAKEVIEW Café Navarre aa Sandwiches, 800 Navarre Ave., 504-483-8828

305-4833 Casa Garcia aaa Mexican, 8814 Veterans Blvd., 504-464-0354 Casablanca aaa Mediterranean,

1001 Live Oak St., 504-838-0022 Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House aaa Seafood, 3117 21St. Street, 504-833-6310 New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood Co. aa Sandwiches, 1005 S. Clearview Pkwy., Elmwood, 504734-1122; 817 Veterans Blvd., 504Mellow Mushroom is the place where pizza and beer lovers come together. The freshest ingredients go into the eclectic menu of pizzas, hoagies, calzones and salads. Try one of their specialty pizzas like the Kosmic Karma or Mighty Meaty then top it off with one of the 30 beer choices on tap. Catering is available. 3131 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, 504-644-4155, mellowmushroom.com. 3030 Severn Ave., 504-888-2209 China Rose aaa Chinese, 3501 N. Arnoult St., 504-887-3295 Come Back Inn aa Neighborhood Café, 8016 W. Metairie Ave., 504467-9316 Crabby Jack’s aaa Sandwiches, 428 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 504-833-2722 Creole Grille aaa Creole, 5241 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 504889-7992 Cypress aaa Contemporary Creole, 4426 Transcontinental Blvd., 504885-6885 Drago’s aaaa Seafood, 3232 N. Arnoult Rd., 504-888-9254 Fausto’s aaa Creole Italian, 530 Veterans Blvd., 504-833-7121 Fury’s aaa Seafood, 724 Martin Behrman Ave., 504-834-5646 Giorlando’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 741 Bonnabel Blvd., 504835-8593 Heritage Grill Contemporary Creole, 111 Veterans Blvd., 504-9344900 Hillbilly Barbecue aaa Barbecue, 2317 Hickory Ave., River Ridge, 504-738-1508 Impastato’s aaaa Creole Italian, 3400 16th St., 504-455-1545 Korea House aaa Korean, 3547 18th St., 504-888-0654 Kosher Cajun Deli aa Deli, 3519 Severn Ave., 504-888-2010 Little Tokyo aaa Japanese, 2300 N. Causeway Blvd., 504-831-6788 Martin Wine Cellar Deli aaa Deli, 714 Elmeer Ave., 504-896-7350 Mellow Mushroom aa Pizza, 30 craft beers on tap, 3131 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 504-644-4155 Mr. Ed’s aaa Neighborhood Café,

837-8580; 6920 Veterans Blvd., 504-455-1272 Parran’s Po-Boys aaa Sandwiches, 3939 Veterans Blvd., 504-8853416 Peppermill aaa Creole Italian, 3524 Severn Ave., 504-4552266 Pho Orchid aaa Vietnamese, 3117 Houma Blvd., 504-457-4188 Ristorante Filippo aaa Creole Italian, 1917 Ridgelake Dr., 504835-4008 Royal China aaa Chinese, 600 Veterans Blvd., 504-831-9633 Ruth’s Chris Steak House aaaa Steak, 3633 Veterans Blvd., 504888-3600 Sake Café aa Japanese, 1130 S. Clearview Pkwy., Elmwood, 504733-8879, 4201 Veterans Blvd., 504-779-7253 Sandro’s Trattoria aaa Creole Italian, 6601 Veterans Blvd., 504888-7784 Shogun aaaa Japanese, 2325 Veterans Blvd., 504-833-7477 Taqueria Corona aaa Mexican, 3535 Severn Ave., 504-885-5088 Vincent’s aaaa Creole Italian, 4411 Chastant St., 504-885-2984 Zea aaa American, 4450 Veterans Blvd. (Clearview Mall), 504780-9090; 1655 Hickory Ave., Harahan, 504-738-0799 MID-CITY Angelo Brocato aaa Dessert and Coffee, 214 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-486-1465 Café Degas aaa French, 3127 Esplanade Ave., 504-945-5635 Café Minh aaaa Vietnamese, 4139 Canal St., 504-482-6266 Cafe NOMA Contemporary Creole, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 504-482-1264 Canal Street Bistro aaa Mexican, 3903 Canal St., 504-482-1225 Crescent City Steak House aaa Steak, 1001 N. Broad St., 504821-3271 Crescent Pie & Sausage Company aaa Neighborhood Café, 4408 Banks St., 504-482-6264 Dooky Chase aaa Creole, 2301 Orleans Ave., 504-821-0600 Doson’s Noodle House aaa

April-May 2015 131

Vietnamese, 135 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-309-7283 Five Happiness aaa Chinese, 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-482-3935 Juan’s Flying Burrito aaa Mexican, 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 504486-9950 Katie’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 3701 Iberville St., 504-488-6582 Little Tokyo aaa Japanese, 310 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-485-5658 Liuzza’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 3636 Bienville St., 504-482-9120 Mandina’s aaa Italian, Seafood, 3800 Canal St., 504-482-9179 Mona’s Café aa Middle Eastern, 3901 Banks St., 504-482-7743 Parkway Poor Boys aaa Sandwiches, 538 Hagan Ave., 504-482-3047 Redemption aaaa Contemporary Creole, 3835 Iberville St., 504309-3570 Ruby Slipper Café aaa Breakfast, Neighborhood Café, 139 S. Cortez St., 504-309-5531 Rue 127 aaaa Contemporary Creole, 127 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-483-1571 Toups’ Meatery aaa Cajun, 845 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-252-4999 Venezia aaa Italian, 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-7991 Willie Mae’s Scotch House aaa Chicken, 2401 St. Ann St., 504822-9503

Acme Oyster House aaa Seafood, 1202 US 190, Covington, 985246-6155 Annadele Plantation aaaa Contemporary Creole, 71518 Chestnut St., Covington, 985809-7669 Bear’s aa Sandwiches, 128 W. 21St. Ave., Covington, 504-892-2373 Bear’s Grill & Spirits aaa Sandwiches, 4700 LA 22, Mandeville, 985-674-9090; 550 Gause Blvd., Slidell, 985-201-8905 Bosco’s aaa Creole Italian, 141 TerraBella Blvd., Covington, 985612-7250, 2040 La Hwy 59, Mandeville, 985-624-5066 Café Lynn aaaa Contemporary Creole, 3051 East Causeway Approach, Mandeville, 985-624-9007 Camellia Café aaa Neighborhood

Christopher’s On Carey aaaa St., Slidell, 985-641-4501

Covington, 985-892-3712 DiCristina’s aaa Italian, 810 N.

132

Inside New Orleans

Homestyle, 1517 Metairie Rd., With two locations, Deanie’s Seafood has been a favorite for

Columbia St., Covington, 985-

boiled, broiled and fried Louisiana

875-0160

seafood prepared in Deanie’s

DiMartino’s aaa Italian, 700 S. Tyler

signature Creole seasonings for

504-875-4555 Sun Ray Grill aaa American, 619 Pink St., 504-837-0055 Taj Mahal aaa Indian, 923-C Metairie Rd., 504-836-6859 Vega Tapas Café aaa

St., Covington, 985-276-6460

more than 50 years. Every Friday

Fazzio’saa Italian,1841 N. Causeway

in October, Deanie’s delivers live

Mediterranean, 2051 Metairie Rd.,

music and fresh Louisiana seafood

504-836-2007

Blvd., Mandeville, 985-624-9704 Gallagher’s Grill aaaa

during its free outdoor concert

Contemporary Creole, 509 S. Tyler

series, Bucktober Fridays, from

St., Covington, 985-892-9992

6pm to 9pm at Deanie’s Seafood

George’s aaa Mexican, 1461 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985626-4342 Gio’s Villa Vancheri aaa Italian, 2890 E. Causeway Approach, Mandeville, 985-624-2597 Keith Young’s Steak House aaaa Steak, 165 LA 21, Madisonville, 985-845-9940 La Carreta aaa Mexican, 812 Hyw 190, Covington, 985-400-5202; 1200 W. Causeway Approach, Mandeville, 985-624-2990 La Provence aaaa French, 25020 US 190, Lacombe, 985-626-7662 Lakehouse aaa Contemporary Creole, 2025 Lakeshore Dr., Little Tokyo aaa Japanese, 590 Asbury Dr., Mandeville, 504-727-1532 Lola aaa Contemporary Creole, Sandwiches, 517 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, 985892-4992 Mandina’s aaa Italian, Seafood, 4240 La 22, Mandeville, 985674-9883 Mattina Bella aaa Breakfast, 421 E. Gibson St., Covington, 985892-0708 Mellow Mushroom aa Pizza, 30 craft beers on tap, 1645 N. Hwy. 190, Covington, 985-327-5407 Michael’s aaaa Creole French, 4820 Pontchartrain Dr., Slidell, 985-649-8055 N’Tini’s aaa Creole, 2891 US 190, Mandeville, 985-626-5566 Nathan’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 36440 Old Bayou Liberty New Orleans Food & Spirits

0020; 70380 LA Hwy. 21,

Porter & Luke’s aaa Creole

Creole, 629 N. US 190,

985-809-6313; 525 190 Hwy. W.,

Lindberg Dr., Slidell, 985-847-

Metairie Rd., 504-832-0955

Dakota aaaa Contemporary

Rd., Slidell, 985-643-0443

Carreta’s Grill a Mexican, 1340

2037 Metairie Rd., 504-831-3773 Galley Seafood aaa Seafood, 2535

Contemporary Creole, 2228 Carey

Café, 69455 LA 59, Abita Springs, Slidell, 985-649-6211

2700 Metairie Rd., 504-934-4700 Chateau Du Lac aaaa French,

Front St., Covington, 985-892-5396

Mandeville, 985-626-3006 NORTHSHORE

Café B aaa Contemporary Creole,

Covington, 985-871-6674 The Chimes aaa Cajun, 19130 W.

aaa Seafood, 208 Lee Lane, Covington, 985-875-0432 Nuvolari’s aaaa Creole Italian, 246 Girod St., Mandeville, 985-626-5619

in Bucktown, 1713 Lake Ave, 831-4141, deanies.com. Ox Lot 9 aaa Contemporary, 428 E Boston St., Covington, 985400-5663 Pardo’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 69305 Hwy 21, Covington, 985-893-3603 Ristorante Del Porto aaaa Italian, 501 E. Boston St., Covington, 985-875-1006 Sake Garden aaa Japanese, 1705 US 190, Mandeville, 985-624-8955 Sal and Judy’s aaaa Italian, 27491 Highway 190, Lacombe, 985882-9443 Thai Chili aaa Thai, 1102 N. US 190, Covington, 985-809-0180 Thai Orchid aaa Thai, 785 Robert Blvd., Slidell, 985-781-0240 Trey Yuen aaa Chinese, 600 Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985626-4476 Water Street Bistro aaa Contemporary Creole, 804 Water St., Madisonville, 985-845-3855 Winos & Tacos Mexican, 321 N. Columbia St., Covington, 985809-3029 Young’s aaa Steak, 850 Robert Blvd., Slidell, 985-643-9331 Yujin aaa Japanese, 323 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, 985809-3840 Zea aaa American, 110 Lake Dr., Covington, 985-327-0520; 173 Northshore Blvd., Slidell, 985273-0500 OLD METAIRIE Bear’s Grill & Spirits aaa Sandwiches, 3206 Metairie Rd., 504-833-9226 Byblos aaa Middle Eastern, 1501 Metairie Rd., 504-834-9773

UPTOWN Amici aaa Italian, 3218 Magazine St., 504-300-1250 Ancora Pizzeria aaa Pizza, 4508 Freret St., 504-324-1636 Apolline aaaa American Gourmet, 4729 Magazine St., 504-894-8881 Atchafalaya aaaa Contemporary Creole, 901 Louisiana Ave., 504891-9626 Baru Bistro & Tapas aaa Caribbean, 3700 Magazine St., 504-895-2225 Bistro Daisy aaaa Creole French, 5831 Magazine St., 504-899-6987 Byblos aaa Middle Eastern, 3242 Magazine St., 504-894-1233 Casamento’s aaa Seafood, 4330 Magazine St., 504-895-9761 Charlie’s Steak House aaa Steak, 4510 Dryades St., 504-895-9705 Clancy’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 6100 Annunciation St., 504-895-1111 Dat Dog aa Sandwiches, 3336 Magazine St., 504-894-8885; 5030 Freret St., 504-899-6883 Dick & Jenny’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 4501 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-894-9880 Flaming Torch aaa French, 737 Octavia St., 504-895-0900 Gautreau’s aaaa American, 1728 Soniat St., 504-899-7397 High Hat Café aa Creole Homestyle, 4500 Freret St., 504-754-1366 Uptown,Jamila’s aaa Middle Eastern, 7806 Maple St., 504866-4366 Joey K’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 3001 Magazine St., 504-891-0997 Kyoto aaa Japanese, 4920 Prytania St., 504-891-3644 La Crepe Nanou aaaa French, 1410 Robert St., 504-899-2670 La Petite Grocery aaaa French, 4238 Magazine St., 504-891-3377 La Thai Cuisine aaaa Thai, 4938

American Sector aa American, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1940 Annunciation aaaa Contemporary Creole, 1016 Annunciation St., 504-568-0245 Butcher aaa Cajun, 930 Tchoupitoulas. 504-588-7675 Café Reconcile aaa Lunch Café, Kingfish, a casual French Quarter restaurant, salutes the Huey P. Long era. The Kingfish menu embodies new Louisiana cuisine brought to fruition by renowned Chef Greg Sonnier, whose trademark style is evident in the multilayers of flavor he presents in every dish. Cornmeal waffle pirogue sits atop a sweet potato puree adorned with New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp. 337 Chartres St., 598-5005, cocktailbarneworleans.com. Prytania St., 504-899-8886 Lilette aaaa French, 3637 Magazine St., 504-895-1636 Mahony’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 3454 Magazine St., 504-899-3374 Martinique aaa French, 5908 Magazine St., 504-891-8495 Midway Pizza aaa Pizza, 4725 Freret St., 504-322-2815 Mona’s Café aa Middle Eastern, 4126 Magazine St., 504-894-9800 New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood Co. aa Sandwiches, 4141 St. Charles Ave., 504-247-9753 New York Pizza aa Pizza, 4418 Magazine St., 504-891-2376 Ninja aaaa Japanese, 8433 Oak St., 504-866-1119 Nirvana aaa Indian, 4308 Magazine St., 504-894-9797 Pascal’s Manale aaa Creole Italian, 1838 Napoleon Ave., 504-895-4877 Patois aaaa Creole French, 6078 Laurel St., 504-895-9441 Rum House aaa Caribbean, 3128 Magazine St., 504-941-7560 Salú aaa Eclectic, 3226 Magazine St., 504-371-5958 Slice aaa Pizza, 5538 Magazine St., 504-897-4800 Sukho Thai aaa Thai, 4519 Magazine St., 504-373-6471 Taqueria Corona aaa Mexican, 5932 Magazine St., 504-897-3974 Upperline aaaa Contemporary Creole, 1413 Upperline St., 504891-9822 WAREHOUSE DISTRICT AND CENTRAL CITY 7 On Fulton aaa Contemporary Creole,701 Convention Center Blvd., 504-575-7555

1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 504-568-1157 Carmo aaa Caribbean, 527 Julia. 504-861-7763 Chateau Du Lac aaaa French, 857 Fulton St. 504-301-0235 Cochon aaa Cajun, 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-588-2123 Eleven 79 aaaa Italian, 1179 Annunciation St., 504-569-0001 Emeril’s aaaaa Contemporary Creole, 800 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-528-9393 Grand Isle aaa Seafood, 575 Convention Center Blvd., 504520-8530 La Boca aaaa Steak, 870 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-525-8205 Mais Arepas aaaa South American, 1200 Carondelet St., 504-523-6247 Pêche Seafood Grill aaa Seafood, 800 Magazine St., 504-522-1744 Rock-n-Sake aaa Japanese, 823 Fulton St., 504-581-7253 Root aaaa Eclectic, 200 Julia St., 504-252-9480 Sun Ray Grill aaa Eclectic, 1051 Annunciation St., 504-566-0021 Tomas Bistro aaaa Creole French, 755 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-527-0942 Tommy’s Cuisine aaaa Creole Italian, 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 504581-1103 Ugly Dog Saloon aa Barbecue, 401 Andrew Higgins Blvd., 504569-8459 WEST END AND BUCKTOWN Blue Crab aaa Seafood, 7900 Lakeshore Dr., 504-284-2898 Brisbi’s aaa Seafood, 7400 Lakeshore Dr., 504-555-5555 Deanie’s Seafood aa Seafood, 1713 Lake Ave., 504-831-4141 New Orleans Food & Spirits aaa Seafood, 210 Hammond Hwy., 504-828-2220 R&O’s aaa Seafood, 216 Old Hammond Hwy., 504-831-1248 Two Tony’s aaa Creole Italian, 8536 Pontchartrain Blvd., 504-282-0801 Wasabi aaa Japanese, 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., 504-2673263

April-May 2015 133

IN Development

by Tom Hancock

IS THERE ANY BETTER TIME of year in New Orleans than this? The easy answer would be that Carnival season trumps all, but I beg to differ. By the time we recover from post-Mardi Gras depression, we fit in one last parade for St. Patrick’s Day and have finally conquered that bi-polar beast that is New Orleans winter weather. You know exactly what I am talking about—75 degrees and sunny one day, only to wake up the next day to 35 degrees and pouring rain with a piercing wind coming off of the Mississippi River. Spring brings a time of renewal and

Fudge Studios, previously owned by current and former members of local legends Better Than Ezra, was recently purchased by another local legend, Troy Andrews, a.k.a Trombone Shorty. Skip over to Bywater, where the former Piety Recording Studio was recently acquired by Alex Ebert, who is a songwriter, composer and lead man for Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. One local recording studio, The Parlor Recording Studio, opened its doors in late November and is already making waves on the local and national

rebirth. Suddenly, there are numerous festivals every weekend that allow all of us to enjoy the weather, food and music that are the heartbeat of our city’s culture. The French Quarter Festival and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, or Jazz Fest as we affectionately call it, are the champions of festival season, bringing us together to enjoy local, regional, national and global acts that provide a lifetime of memories. And while we are caught up with all of the great performances that are essentially taking place in our back yard every weekend, New Orleans is rapidly becoming an overwhelmingly popular city to compose and record music. Think about it: if New Orleans has become “Hollywood South” with the filming of hundreds of television shows and motion pictures every year, wouldn’t it make sense that the music business eventually would follow suit? The foundation is there in the vibrant history the city once had with Allen Toussaint’s Sea-Saint Studio, the J & M Music Shop and Piety Street Studios—where names such as Earl King, Professor Longhair, Elvis Costello and Dave Matthews recorded and rocked. In 2014 alone, the city saw two new acquisitions of recording studios, with the buyers’ intentions being to ramp up the recording industry locally. The Garden District building that formerly housed

scenes. The Parlor is the brain child of the motherson duo composed of Judy Van Zant, widow of legendary Lynyrd Skynyrd front-man Ronnie Van Zant, and her son, Matt Grondin. Grondin relocated to New Orleans nearly eight years ago, which gave Van Zant the incentive to visit New Orleans more often and eventually buy a house and spend time between here and Florida. Shortly after, the wheels were in motion for what would become The Parlor. “We got here because of my love for music. My son is a musician who obviously loves music, and we thought New Orleans was the perfect place at the perfect time. When we started, our intentions were not for it to be what it ended up turning into. It was going to be just a smaller studio.” After a search that lasted a little over six months, the duo stumbled upon the building that currently houses the new venture. An old, inconspicuous warehouse in the heart of the Irish Channel with more than 12,000 square feet of space, it was much larger than they had originally planned. The transformation of the old warehouse into its current state-of-the-art office and recording facility did not come without its share of headaches. The process of the renovation and redevelopment was only anticipated to take a year; however, three and one-half years, two different designers, two different architects, and two different builders later, the initial

Places to Make Music

continued on page 137

134

Inside New Orleans

April-May 2015 135

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gift subscription, call 504-934-9684 or email us at subscriptions@insidepub.com.

136

Inside New Orleans

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phase was finally completed. The all-star cast of local architect John Williams, builder David Devillier and Nashville music studio designer Dave Mattingly were ultimately the ones who brought Van Zant and Grondin’s vision to fruition. Artists seeking to use the facilities at The Parlor have a variety of options for recording, mixing and editing. “The idea is that when the artists walk through the door, all of the details are settled,” says Eric Heigle, the Parlor’s chief engineer. “The energy and vibe of the room is comfortable, and they can essentially walk in and begin to use their imagination. It’s about creating a comfortable atmosphere.” While The Parlor has only been open for a very short period of time, they have wasted no time attracting not only New Orleans-based names such as Trombone Shorty, Christian Scott and Anders Osborne, but also acts from across the globe that are anxious to work with the Parlor team. The level of talent walking in the door of the studio on a daily basis is so high profile that I don’t even feel comfortable including the actual address of the studio. What I will tell you is that The Parlor will be hosting a grand-opening party during Jazz Fest that will include food, music and fun. Check theparlorstudio.com for more details. This story of Van Zant and her son’s desire and willingness to bring this project to New Orleans is yet another example of music’s role in the rebuilding of New Orleans, and it is a huge victory for the city itself. As Van Zant puts it: “We’re trying to provide a place for people to make music. It’s as simple as that.”

Directory of Advertisers ADVERTISER............................. CONTACT INFO PAGE Abode...................................504-266-2135 46 Adler’s...................................504-523-5292 IFC All American Healthcare.........504-229-6862 122 American Factory Direct.........985-871-0300 28 Arabella Fine Gifts and Home Décor............. .............................................985-727-9787 103 Ariodante Gallery...................504-524-3233 136 Art and Eyes..........................504-891-4494 10 Artistry of Light......................225-247-8963 WIB 31 Arthur Gallagher....................504-888-1100 WIB 25 Atikki Bar & Grill....................504-587-3756 39 Audubon Institute . .....auduboninstitute.org 104 Basics Underneath.................504-891-1000 111 Benbow Veterinary Services....504-304-7367 32 Benchmark Investment Group...985-635-0770 20 Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights...504-522-9485 7 Bombay Club, The.................504-577-2237 11 Boudreaux’s Fine Jewelers......504-831-2602 5 Bra Genie...............................985-951-8638 108 Bra la Vie!..............................985-662-5065 112 Brennan’s, Ralph Brennan Rest. Group ............................brennansneworleans.com 131 Bridal Boutique By Mae Me....504-266-2771 103 Brown Family Orthodontics....504-455-5642 23 Bustles & Bows......................504-780-7090 104 Cabinets by Design................504-899-2300 27 Candra George Photography...985-871-6990 108 Carreta’s Grill.........................504-837-6696 35 Christwood Retirement Community............. ........................................christwoodrc.com 104 Court of Two Sisters...............504-522-7261 133 Crawfish Mambo...................504-280-2586 47 DA Exterminating...................504-888-4941 135 Deanie’s Seafood........... pinchapalooza.com 128 DeLeon and Sons...................504-628-1363 136 Diane La Place........................985-727-7103 135 Dorsey & Company................504-592-3252 24 Eclectic Home........................504-866-6654 35 Emma’s Shoes and Accessories...504-407-0668 111 FeBe......................................504-835-5250 112 Fertility Institute............ fertilityinstitute.com 36 Fidelity Bank..........................504-569-3534 14 First Bank and Trust.................fbtonline.com 19 Fischer Gambino....................504-833-7757 103 Fitness Expo...........................504-887-0880 9 Foot Solutions........................504-833-3555 108 Franco’s Athletic Club............504-218-4637 IBC Gardner Realtors- Chris and Charlotte Dorion .............................................504-451-4274 61 Glenn Michael Salon..............504-828-6848 WIB 32 GNO Property Management...504-891-2424 57 Gulf Coast Office Products.....504-432-6511 100 Hazelnut................................504-891-2424 57 Historic New Orleans Collection....504-523-4662 23 Je T’aime Nola.......................504-309-6028 112 Jefferson Ambulatory.............504-274-3100 24

ADVERTISER............................. CONTACT INFO PAGE Jos. A. Bank...........................504-528-9491 111 Jovann Armstrong Fine Art Gallery................ .............................................225-603-3381 47 Junior League of New Orleans...504-891-5845 38 Keith Guy LLC.......................504-277- 4956 12 Kevan Hall Sport............ kevanhallsport.com 6 Khoobehi & Associates........... khoobehi.com 13 ................................................................... WIB 7 La Bella Vita Laser & Vein.......985-892-2950 123 Law Office of David Courcelle...504-828-1315 116 LCI Workers Comp........................lciwc.com 44 LD Linens and Décor .............504-309-4301 100 Louisiana Custom Closets......504-885-3188 45 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen..........504-522-9500 131 Louisiana Products.................504-453-6781 129 Magazine Street Merchants Association....... .................................... magazinestreet.com 103 Mellow Mushroom................504-644-4155 133 Mercedes Benz of New Orleans . .504-456-3727 3 Michalopoulos Gallery.... michalopoulos.com 38 Monmouth Historic Inn..........601-442-5852 37 Murphy Appraisal Services.....504-274-2682 115 Natchez Grand Hotel, The......601-446-9994 37 National Pre-owned Cars.......504-934-1650 136 Niche Modern Home.............985-624-4045 54 North American Insurance Agency................ .............................................985-871-5480 122 Northshore Dermatology ......985-792-5959 25 Ole River LLC.........................800-605-7960 32 Original Julius Lips Door & Glass Co., The .............................................504-366-5432 136 Outdoor Living Center...........985-893-8008 28 Palm Village...........................985-778-2547 111 Pan American Power..............985-893-1271 26 Paretti Jaguar of New Orleans...504-888-5420 BC Pink Chariot - Black Car Service... 504-400-5336 136 Pool & Patio Center................504-837-2022 62 Riccobono’s Peppermill Restaurant................. .............................................. 504-455-2266 129 Riverview Camp for Girls........800-882-0722 51 Rubensteins...........................504-581-6666 54 St. Romain Interiors................985-845-7411 112 Skin Science.................. skinsciencellc.com 4 Southern Hotel......................844-866-1907 100 Steamboat Natchez Riverboat...................... ............ neworleanssteamboatcompany.com 104 Sucré.................................... shopsucre.com 46 Symmetry Jewelers Designers....................... ................................ symmetryjewelers.com 17 Tim L. Fields, Attorney at Law...504-864-0111 135 Triumph Krav Maga...............504-324-5705 116 Villa, The...............................985-626-9797 108 Village Executive Office Suites, The .............................................985-727-6700 61 Water Street Wreaths.............985-792-7979 136

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Carreta’s Grill

Owner Carlos Valencia welcomes you to visit Carreta’s Grill at any of their four locations for food and live music on Cinco de Mayo.

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Inside New Orleans

THE PLACE TO BE for Cinco de Mayo is Carreta’s Grill, which has been serving up authentic, fresh Mexican cuisine for you to enjoy since 1999. Owner Carlos especially recommends their sizzling Shrimp, Chicken and Steak Fajitas. Served with grilled onions and bell peppers, the fajitas are sure to quench any Mexican craving. Top off the sizzling meat and seafood dishes with

by Leah Draffen

sour cream, pico de gallo and guacamole. All sizzling plates are sided with rice and beans. Visit Cinco de Mayo at one of their four locations— Metairie, Harahan, Slidell and Covington. Even after Cinco de Mayo, head to Carretta’s Grill for their weekly happy hours Monday through Friday, 2-6 p.m. For more information, visit carretasgrillrestaurant.com.

photo courtesy: CARRETA’S GRILL

Last Bite