June-July 2017 Issue of Inside New Orleans

450

$

ROSEMARY BEACH GETAWAY •

PRAYERFUL LEGACY •

A WEDDING BY DESIGN •

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

JUNE-JULY 2017 VOL. 4, NO. 3

June-July 2017

Publisher

Vol. 4, No. 3

Lori Murphy

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Editor-in-Chief Anne Honeywell

Senior Editor

Managing Editor

Jan Murphy Leah Draffen

Contributors are featured on page 16.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Art Director

Graphic Designer

Jennifer Starkey

Production Intern

Madison Hutson

Brad Growden

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Business Manager

Senior Account Executives

Jane Quillin Poki Hampton

Candice Laizer

Account Executives

Lisanne Alack

Barbara Bossier

Jonée Daigle-Ferrand

Amy Taylor

Annie Vilardo

Susan Wormser

Advertising Coordinator

Barbara Roscoe

Margaret Rivera

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Advertise phone

(504) 934-9684

fax (504) 934-7721 email sales@insidepub.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Contribute 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.

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On the cover

Contact

mail P.O. Box 6048

Metairie, LA 70009 phone

(504) 934-9684

fax (504) 934-7721 Artist Amanda Stone Talley Rose Crossing Find more on page 18.

website www.insideneworleans.net

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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 Orleans, LA. Copy­right ©2017

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 New Orleans Magazine is created using the Adobe Creative Suite on Apple Macintosh computers.

contents table of

page 32

page 61

Features 18 Uninhibited Color Cover Artist Amanda Stone Talley page 42

32 Rosemary Beach Getaway

page 91

42 Spirits for the Southern Palate

Distilled in the Delta

38 Into the Clouds

91 Prayerful Legacy

Folk Artist Roland Fournier 106 A Wedding By Design

Sarah Elizabeth Dewey crafts her dream wedding

Women IN Business Follows page 66.

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Inside New Orleans

page 57

contents table of

Departments

12 Publisher’s Note

108 IN Love and Marriage

14 Editor’s Note

30 INside Story Eduating drivers in the city that care forgot.

109 INside Peek Featuring: St. Martin’s Totally 80s Gala Sugarplum Ball Sacred Heart Headmistress’ Dinner The New Orleans Chamber Meet & Greet Luncheon Men In Kilts

37 Traces Port Orleans Brewery

114 Last Bite

Sala Restaurant + Bar

15 Reader Resources 16 Contributors 24 INside Scoop

41 Wine Cellar Spanish Red Wines 50 At the Table Deliciously Cold 57 Flourishes

Extraordinary gifts and home accents 61 INside Look Beach Needs 00 IN Great Taste 1 ’Cue-Ready Salads 102 INside Dining page 100

page 30

“In a digital world, there is still nothing quite like tangibility.”

by Lori Murphy

- Christopher Brown

The noise can be unbearable. Things we look for online are buried so deep into things others want to say, it is exhausting to wade through the static. As a marketing professional, I understand the desire to tell you everything that I possibly can in the seconds that you afford me while going from place to place in the digital world. As a consumer, it makes me crazy, and I have to say, uncomfortable. When a search on my desktop computer is recalled through advertising during a visit to Facebook on my cell, it is creepy.

I long for the tranquil time of tangibility. What I can see and touch will never be superseded by images on a computer screen. Are there copies of all of our Inside Northside and Inside New Orleans issues online? Absolutely. Can you read a story from an issue several years back? Yes. But that doesn’t come close to replacing the honor of our place on your coffee table. We are happy to wait for your leisure time, your feet up on the ottoman. Where you can immerse yourself in the pages of our issues.

Horacio Silva said in an article for Departures Magazine that luxury and technology are a contradiction in terms. “True luxury is predicated on scarcity and permanence, technology on ubiquity and transience.” I prefer to spend time in my niche. A place where my life and interests co-mingle with those of my community.

I am not anti-digital, but there is a time and place for it. Search for news about what is going on in cities I care about, order paper towels for the office—cases like that, why not go digital? But when I want a dress that makes me feel like the belle of the ball, I yearn to feel the fabric, see the workmanship and the way the color looks against my skin. It needs to be tangible.

When given the choice to be personal, tangible and connected … I will. And so will each issue of Inside Northside and Inside New Orleans.

ps … Congratulations to the Women in Business featured in these pages. They are my heroes, mentors and guideposts. We are the community we are because you are the people you are. Thank you.

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Inside New Orleans

Editor’s Note

by Anne Honeywell celebrat e: 1. ackno wledge with a socia l gathering or enjoyable activity. 2. honor or pra ise publicly .

At Inside New Orleans we love to celebrate. And in this issue, we have much to celebrate.

First and foremost, our fabulous Women In Business, who contribute so much to the success of their companies. Start at page 67 to learn more about how they do it, beginning with designer Grace Kaynor’s inspiring story. We will celebrate with these women again at a luncheon in mid-June.

We are also celebrating our cover artist, Amanda Stone Talley, whose colorful works are a delight for us all. Her story, as told by Shauna Grissett, can be found on page 18.

On page 106, Sarah Dewey Petitto shares the planning of her biggest celebration—her wedding—with Leah Draffen. Sarah fills us in on how a designer tackles the design of her own wedding, beginning with her inspiration board. And just in time for Father’s Day, Angelle Albright celebrates her father, Roland Fournier, in “Prayerful Legacy” on page 91.

As we roll from June to July “celebrating” our typical southern Louisiana summer weather, four of our favorite contributors give you helpful survival tips. Start on page 50 with Tom Fitzmorris’ guide to some of the coolest restaurant offerings around. Celebrate the 4th with Yvette Jemison’s fabulous salad recipes for your backyard barbecue (page 100), perhaps complemented by a Bill Kearney wine selection (page 41) or something refreshing made with a Louisiana vodka that Mimi Greenwood Knight writes about on page 42.

I hope you enjoy this celebratory issue of Inside New Orleans—and always remember to

of my lebrating, some Speaking of ce oshoot from our phot favorite things Amanda Talley’s at cover artist es, ese great clutch studio were th ends! ht out with fri perfect for a nig

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Inside New Orleans

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

celebrate the things you love every day!

Reader Resources Contact Us: Telephone: (504) 934-9684 Fax: (504) 934-7721 Website: insideneworleans.net

Receiving Inside New Orleans in Your Mailbox?

You are on our mailing list, and you will continue to receive Inside New Orleans every other month at no charge. Please join us in thanking our advertisers, who make this possible.

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

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.

Advertising Information: For advertising information, please contact us by telephone or e-mail us at sales@insidepub.com.

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.

June-July 2017 15

Contributors 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.

Other Voices: Gretchen Armbruster, Leah Draffen, Tom Fitzmorris, Candra George, Thomas B. Growden, Michael Harold and Mimi Greenwood Knight.

Bill Kearney Bill Kearney believes if you like a wine, it’s a great wine—and the best wine is shared with friends. For more than 20 years, he has added wines from many regions, grapes and friends to his private collection. Certified as a sommelier, he serves as the wine director for Galatoire’s Restaurant, Galatoire’s Bistro and 33 Bar and Steak, where he is also a partner.

A graduate of Tulane, Bill is president of Yenraek, a governmental affairs firm. On page 41, Bill tells the story of Spanish red wines in Wine Cellar.

Angelle Albright

Shauna Grissett

Yvette Jemison

Angelle Albright is the founder and chief marketing officer of Chemo Beanies, which supplies head coverings to women with cancer, a company she co-created with her niece after battling cancer herself. She has a BA in mass communications from Loyola University and was chief news editor at WVUE. A branding expert for independent businesses, Angelle is also a photographer, videographer, speaker, social media expert and Huffington Post blogger. She and her husband, Dr. Anthony Albright, have three children. On page 91, she tells an inspiring story about her father.

Shauna Grissett grew up in New Orleans and graduated from St. Martin’s Episcopal School, the University of Virginia and the Fashion Institute of Design’s one-year fashion design program. She worked in New York’s rough-and-tumble garment industry for over sixteen years before returning home. Shauna has been writing a fiction book based on her former life on Seventh Avenue for the past few years. When not writing or working on community endeavors, she is busy taking care of her beloved 13-year old English Bull Terrier, who has more “people” than J. Lo. Shauna’s article on cover artist Amanda Talley is featured on page 18.

Yvette’s passion for all things culinary extends back to her childhood growing up in a military family. Her recipes and home cooking are influenced by the many places she has lived. She was immersed in the Tex-Mex cuisine of South Texas and has experienced food from Native American Indian reservations to the street food of Turkey. She often attends cooking classes while traveling with her husband and two daughters and has truly enjoyed a well-seasoned life. Yvette presents ideas for salads for barbecues on page 100.

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Inside New Orleans

Uninhibited Color ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONIST Amanda Talley describes herself as an “action painter,” and the classification seems spot on since she has sprinted to the top of her métier in practically no time.

By definition, the word action, a noun, is “the fact or process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim.” With Talley’s distinctive rhythmic circular brushstrokes and uninhibited use of color in her paintings, she is sought after by the public and art critics alike, a rarity. But, no longer content to just paint, Talley is poised to be the next trailblazer in the design world, merging her 18

Inside New Orleans

talent and love for art, fashion and design. She has cleverly made use of her art as the driving force behind this expansion into large commercial projects (for hotels and restaurants), fabrics (printed with the patterns from her canvases), linens, home décor items, bedding, fashion accessories and clothing. The artist says with an engaging laugh, “I am envisioning ‘Talley Land!’ The business just keeps going and growing. So, I keep asking myself, ‘What is the next thing going to be?’”

Studio Amanda Talley, located in an 1840s masonry pharmacy building on the corner of Terpsichore and Magazine, has been the hub of her operation for the past six years. In business for a total of nine years—before her current location she had a gallery on First and Magazine—she explains, “The building itself is a creative enterprise where the entire process—all of it—comes together. A year ago, we hired two full-time employees to run the sewing room to >>

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Cover Artist Amanda Stone Talley by Shauna Grissett

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Inside New Orleans

fragrance of the Confederate jasmine wafting in from the courtyard makes for a positively delightful afternoon, and the only thing missing is a mint julep in a frosty sterling silver cup.

The Baton Rouge native moved to New Orleans in 2000 after graduating from the Savannah College of Art and Design with an MFA in painting. Talley took private painting classes when she was in the sixth grade, and ever since, she knew she wanted to be a painter. “I came here after graduate school and worked for Gerri Bremermann in the fabric lab. It was my first job. I’m an only child and my mother is an only child, so I wanted to be close to her, but I didn’t want to go back to Baton Rouge.”

Talley has come a long way from the fabric lab and describes the multifaceted aspects of her organization as well as some of her upcoming jobs. “We just got a big commission from the Tao Group for their restaurant, Avra Madison, which was designed by the David Rockwell Group. They commissioned five large-scale works.

So in addition to our residential clients we’ve got commercialcommissioned design projects, hotels, artwork, a lot of things under one heading. It’s hard to comprehend all of the things that we are

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

make custom orders. We have the back gallery in the garage, and that is the framing studio. And then, there is the courtyard, and I live upstairs.” Because the property is now needed to function in so many different capacities, Talley no longer has her studio on the premises and paints in her newly purchased home in Pass Christian, Mississippi.

While we are talking, another wellknown local artist wanders in, a good friend of Talley’s, and the mood is friendly and the conversation is quick-witted and smart. A very restrained version of Andy Warhol’s factory springs to mind, or better yet, a Southern version of Gertrude Stein’s famous Saturday salons in Paris. This combined with Talley’s five adorable dogs ambling around the studio and the sweet

doing here.” Avra Madison is the new “it” restaurant in New York that has celebs and posh New Yorkers lining up for tables.

In addition to direct sales to the public via the internet (Instagram), at Studio Amanda Talley and at a few select galleries in which she shows her work (Charlotte, N.C.; Houston; Dallas; Charlottesville, Va.; Los Angeles; Montreal), another big piece of Talley’s growing empire is her work with interior designers. “We have relationships with many designers. They have a limitless amount of clients, and they know our product is always in pristine condition and our shipping sources are good. We work with them on their projects on an individual basis; it’s very hands-on and professional.”

As Talley’s company has expanded, she has had to make adjustments in her business model to handle the growing pains.

One of the biggest refinements has been to the commission structure with regard to her paintings. Talley found the pressure of taking commissions was becoming overwhelming and controlling due to the sometimes accompanying exacting specifications and directions. “It wasn’t my process. So now what I do with a really great client is that I take his or her idea or I look at their room and then I send them a

painting, and it’s either ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ And with general commission requests, Collin, my studio manager, will say, ‘I’m going to talk to Amanda, and she might come out of the studio with something for you.’

This way, the customer feels less pressure as well, because they’re not obligated to buy. So, it’s better all the way around.

Now I just do things that are inspired, and it’s great! I find I am more prolific.”

Although there are changes afoot, good ones, at Studio Amanda Talley, some things will never change. One thing that remains steadfast is Talley’s loyalty to her customer base. It is Talley’s top priority that the customer be treated well and have a matchless experience when he or she visits her gallery. “Collin and I are working to create a curated space so >> June-July 2017 21

22

Inside New Orleans

Design and the teacher was really hard on me. He kept giving me F’s on everything.” At the same time, Talley was teaching a 5th grade art class at a Savannah day school. “It’s a long story, but one day it all blew up, and I ended up getting fired, unfairly. So, I had this terrible teaching job, and I wasn’t doing well in my area of study. Things weren’t exactly going well.”

The day Talley got fired she went into the studio to complete an assignment for her abstract painting class. “I made this big red and orange painting. I guess getting fired felt so raw. After I finished the painting, I stepped back and said, ‘I never want to paint any other way again.’ It was just like that (snaps her fingers)! And, I never went back to still life painting. I emerged. Sometimes the most frustrating things push you into new directions, and you have to birth through the frustration in order to move through it.” The Savannah College of Art and Design bought Talley’s transformative painting for its permanent collection.

It may have taken a while for her to find her technique, but Talley has clearly perfected it, as well as her process. “Although I do have rules about process, they’re so embedded in the back of my head at this point, that I’m kind of oblivious to them while I’m painting. There is something magical channeling through me when I’m painting. I’m moving and trying to keep

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

when you walk into the studio it will be like you are in an artist’s salon or atelier. Everything is thoughtfully chosen and every piece is from the artist’s eye or hand and relates to the heart, unlike a franchise. We want you to have an unforgettable experience. We don’t want the area to be chaotic. Because there is so much color and line in my work, I want people to be able to step back, look and take their time when choosing a painting.”

Another constant in the world of Amanda Talley that isn’t going away—Peach! “I love peachy colors, and I have to fight not to put it in everything. Peach is my go-to accent color. It’s been there for a long time. You don’t want to have too much of the same color, but I love it!”

While hard to believe, there was a time in Amanda’s life when this level of success never crossed her mind. She went to graduate school with the goal of teaching at the college level, professionally, and she didn’t start out as an abstract expressionist. “I was a still life painter in graduate school, and I didn’t feel like my work was measuring up. So, I took an elective in abstract painting just for fun. It was in the undergraduate school at the Savannah College of Art and

up with what is coming through—the aesthetic stuff and the line quality. It takes me about an hour to paint a painting because everything is going so fast. I paint everything in that moment, like Lee Krasner and Jackson Pollock—also action painters—and, also like them, I don’t go back in and rework my paintings. When you can feel the action in one of my paintings, it’s because it happened quickly. The vibration in the painting comes from the combination of color and line working together. When you get that visceral reaction to a painting, it’s because you can see the artist in the brush.”

Talley is philosophical and speaks insightfully about the act of painting, “When I’m painting, I’m imagining, ‘Where is this painting going? There is someone, a home out there where it belongs.’ Every painting is meant for someone. There is someone out there, who doesn’t yet know he or she needs this painting, and I don’t know either. There is a force in the universe that is in command of determining all of this. Hopefully, when the right person connects with it, the painting will lift the vibration in that person’s home.”

She continues, explaining how her creativity through painting connects her to her higher power, the universe, “Subconsciously, I feel that everything is already laid out in some way. So, you have to keep creating and let go and what is meant to be will happen in your life. You don’t know what you want, but the universe does. Life will constantly throw things at you, so you have to react as positively as you can. Let it wash through you.”

The works of Esther Hicks (based on the laws of attraction) and The Power of Positive Thinking, by Norman Vincent Peale have been very influential on Talley’s outlook, both personally and professionally. She read The Power of Positive Thinking eight years ago to change her negative mindset and claims the successes started rolling in almost immediately, “If you get a good vibration going and think well of other people, then good things will happen. I try to think in terms of plenty, not limited quantity. I try to always

remember that someone else’s successes don’t mean less for me but rather, there’s so much for everybody to be successful.

What I receive in the universe has to do with what I am putting out. Project happiness, joy and love and you’re going to get that back; it’s reciprocal.”

Talley obviously practices what she preaches, and if she is the benchmark, then affirmative thinking clearly does brings good things.

Studio Amanda Talley, 1382 Magazine St., 595-3136, amandatalley. com, studioamandatalley@gmail.com. Open Monday – Saturday (Champagne is served on Saturdays!)

June-July 2017 23

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

July 3 Happy 3rd of July.

Fireworks and music by the

Happy 3rd of July!

Marine Corps Band New Orleans. City Park. 6pm.

photo: NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK ARCHIVES

neworleanscitypark.com.

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Inside New Orleans

June 1 Jazz in the Park. Armstrong Park, 901 N. Rampart St. 4-8pm. armstrongpark.org.

1-18 Father Comes Home From the Wars (Parts 1, 2, 3). By Suzan-Lori Parks, directed by Valerie Curtis-Newton. Marquette Hall, Loyola University. 522-6545. southernrep.com.

1-18 Senga Nengudi: Improvisational

Gestures and Cecilia VicuĂąa: About to Happen. Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St. 5283805. cacno.org.

1-30 Christopher Saucedo: Neopolitan(Comic Book Diplomacy, Go Cups and Water Bottle Buoys). Arthur Roger Gallery, 434 Julia St. Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm. 522-1999. arthurrogergallery.com.

1-30 Edward Burtynsky: Intentional Landscapes. Arthur Roger Gallery, 434 Julia St. Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm. 522-1999. arthurrogergallery.com.

1-July 9 Beyond the Canvas: Contemporary Artists from Puerto Rico. Woldenberg Art Center, Newcomb Art Museum, 6823 St. Charles Ave. 865-5328. newcombeartmuseum.tulane.edu.

1-July 16 Waltzing the Muse: The Paintings of James Michalopoulos. Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St. 539-9650. ogdenmuseum.org.

1-Oct 8 Jim Steg: New Work. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Cir. noma.org.

1-Oct 8 New at NOMA: Recent Acquisitions in Modern and Contemporary Art. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll

>>

June-July 2017 25

Inside Scoop Cir. noma.org.

1-Oct 8 Regina Scully. Japanese

Crowne Plaza Hotel, 739 Canal St, and

Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll

various loc ations. nolatangofestival.com.

1-Oct 16 The Georgian Collection at

9 Hornbeck Offshore Bobby Hebert Golf Classic. Lakewood Golf Club,

M.S. Rau Antiques. 630 Royal St. 224-

4801 General De Gaulle Dr. 455-5194.

5132. rauantiques.com.

louisiana.cff.org.

1-Dec 2 Storyville: Madams and Music.

9 Jay Leno Live on Stage. Event Center

The Historic New Orleans Collection’s

at L’Auberge Baton Rouge. Doors open,

Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres St.

7pm; show, 8pm. $10. Must be 21 to

Tues-Sat, 9:30am-4pm. Free. hnoc.org.

enter. Starting at $65, reserved seating.

1-Dec 17 Giants of Jazz: Art Posters and

lbatonrouge.com/entertainment/shows-

Lithographs by Waldemar Swierzy from the Daguillard Collection. The

and-events/jay-leno/.

9 Journey with special guest Asia.

Historic New Orleans Collection, 533

Smoothie King Center. 7:30pm.

Royal St. hnoc.org.

livenation.com.

2-4 Walker Percy Weekend. Three-day

9 Legacies for Leaders Estate Planning

literary festival including books, ideas,

Day. Schedule to confirm your legacy/

discussions, bourbon, crawfish and

estate plan including a Will, Power of

more. (225) 635-6330. (800) 789-4221.

Attorney and Living Will. Christie Tournet

stfrancisville.us. walkerpercyweekend.org.

& Associates, 1795 W. Causeway Blvd,

3 50th Anniversary Gala, Let’s Go On

Ste 103A, Mandeville. $500. (985) 951-

With the Show!. Celebrating 50 years

2177. tournetlaw.com.

of the Tulane University Summer Lyric

9-11 Day the War Stopped.

Theatre. Dixon Hall Auditorium. 865-

Commemorating the brief moment of

5269. summerlyric.tulane.edu.

brotherhood given for the burial of a

3-4 New Orleans Oyster Festival.

Union officer, Lt. Commander John

Oysters, cooking demonstrations, crafts,

E. Hart. Grace Episcopal Church,

contests and more. Live music by

St. Francisville. (225) 635-4224.

Flow Tribe, Bonerama, Mike Doussan

(800) 789-4221. stfrancisville.us.

Band, Luke Winslow King, The Mulligan

daythewarstopped.net.

Brothers, Bag of Donuts, Billy Iuso &

9-11 New Orleans Pride. Dance party,

Restless Natives, Brass-A-Holics and

parade, Pride Awards and One

more. Woldenberg Park, 1 Canal St.

Community: Family Equality Day.

Free. nolaoysterfest.com.

prideneworleans.com.

6 Power Lunch. 115 Poydras St, 5th

9-11 Summer Nights Party. Enjoy drinks,

floor auditorium. 11:30am-1pm.

sweet treats and a round of putt putt.

neworleanschamber.org.

City Putt, City Park. 6-10pm. $10. 483-

6-11 Mamma Mia! Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. (800) 745-3000. saengernola.com.

8 Women’s Business Alliance. Women-

Inside New Orleans

8-11 New Orleans Tango Festival. Astor

Landscape: Inner Journeys. New

Cir. noma.org.

26

neworleanschamber.org.

9385. neworleanscitypark.com.

9-25 It’s Only a Play. Le Petit Theatre, 616 St. Peter St. 522-2081. lepetittheatre.com.

10 Holland Grill Demo. Outdoor Living

only networking event. Kendra

Center, 1331 N Hwy 190, Covington.

Scott, 5757 Magazine St. 5-7pm.

10am-2pm. (985) 893-8008.

10-11 French Market Creole Tomato Festival. French Market District.

8am-5pm. frenchmarket.org.

11 Tour De Louisiane Bike Race.

Covington Trailhead. 419 N New Hampshire St, Covington. 8am. neworleansbicycleclub.org.

15 New Leviathan Oriental Fox Trot Orchestra. Thursdays at Twilight.

Botanical Garden, City Park. 6pm. $10. neworleanscitypark.com.

16 Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes.

Concerts in the Courtyard, 533 Royal St. 6-8pm. $10. 523-4662. hnoc.org.

17 Family Day aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ. Two-hour cruise with selfguided visits to the Steam Engine Room, a surprise super hero, magician, spray tattoo artist and balloon artists.

Food optional and can be purchased in advance. Special family day prices.

Reservations recommended, 569-1401.

July 1-2 ESSENCE Festival. R&B, hip-hop, jazz and blues music, speakers, crafts and more. Diana Ross, John Legend, Mary J. Blige, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and many more. Mercedes-Benz Superdome. essencefestival.com.

1-9 Beyond the Canvas: Contemporary Artists from Puerto Rico. Woldenberg Art Center, Newcomb Art Museum, 6823 St. Charles Ave. 865-5328. newcombeartmuseum.tulane.edu.

1-16 Waltzing the Muse: The Paintings of James Michalopoulos. Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St. 539-9650. ogdenmuseum.org.

1-Oct 8 Jim Steg: New Work. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Cir. noma.org.

1-Oct 8 New at NOMA: Recent Acquisitions in Modern and Contemporary Art. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Cir. noma.org.>> June-July 2017 27

Inside Scoop 1-Oct 8 Regina Scully. Japanese

Jefferson Chorale to play at the Louisiana

Landscape: Inner Journeys. New Orleans

Memorial Pavilion, 11:30am-12:30pm;

Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Cir. noma.org.

and the New Orleans Concert Band of

1-Oct 16 The Georgian Collection at

70 members to perform patriotic favorites

M.S. Rau Antiques. 630 Royal St. 224-

at the US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing

5132. rauantiques.com.

Center. National WWII Museum, 945

1-Dec 2 Storyville: Madams and Music.

The Historic New Orleans Collection’s Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres St. Tues-Sat, 9:30am-4pm. Free. hnoc.org.

Magazine St. 2-3:30pm. 528-1944. nationalww2museum.org.

6 Boogiemen Swing Band. Thursdays at Twilight. Botanical Garden, City Park.

1-Dec 17 Giants of Jazz: Art Posters and

6pm. $10. neworleanscitypark.com.

Lithographs by Waldemar Swierzy

7-9 San Fermin en Nueva Orleans. The

from the Daguillard Collection. The

11th annual bull run festival that pays

Historic New Orleans Collection, 533

homage to the world famous Encierro of

Royal St. hnoc.org.

3 Happy 3rd of July. Fireworks and music

Pamplona, Spain. nolabulls.com.

7-9 Summer Nights Party. Enjoys drinks,

by the Marine Corps Band New Orleans.

sweet treats and a round of putt putt.

City Park. 6pm. neworleanscitypark.com.

City Putt, City Park. 6-10pm. $10. 483-

4 Go 4th on the River. Dueling barges fireworks show on the historic downtown New Orleans riverfront. go4thontheriver.com.

5 Independence Day at the Museum.

9385. neworleanscitypark.com.

13 Bon Operatit. Thursdays at Twilight.

Botanical Garden, City Park. 6pm. $10. neworleanscitypark.com.

13-23 The Little Mermaid. Rivertown

and contact-building breakfast for

Theaters for the Performing Arts,

Jefferson Chamber members. New

325 Minor St, Kenner. 461-9475.

Orleans Marriott Metairie at Lakeway,

rivertowntheaters.com.

3838 N Causeway Blvd, Metairie. 7:45-

14 A Summer Night at Southport. The

9:45am. Chamber members, $10; future

10th Annual Akula Foundation Fundraiser featuring an open bar, silent auction,

members, $20. jeffersonchamber.org.

22 The Westbank Beer Festival.

food and live music. Southport Music

Presented by NOLA Motorsports Park.

Hall, 200 Monticella Ave, New Orleans.

Unlimited craft beer samples, raffles for

7-10pm. In advance, $35; at door, $40.

driving and riding experiences, kart track

881-0452.

demos, food and music by The Roots of

14 Bastille Day Fete. Celebrating the

Music Marching Crusaders and DJ Brice

French National Day in America’s most

Nice. NOLA Motorsports Park Event

French city. bastilledaynola.com.

Center, 11075 Nicolle Blvd, Avondale.

18-23 Tales of Cocktail. All things cocktail including lectures, demonstrations,

12-6pm. nolamotor.com.

27 Ronnie Kole. Thursdays at Twilight.

luncheons, parties and cocktail hours.

Botanical Garden, City Park. 6pm. $10.

(888) 299-0404. talesofthecocktail.com.

neworleanscitypark.com.

20 Ladies of Soul. Thursdays at Twilight.

Botanical Garden, City Park. 6pm. $10. neworleanscitypark.com.

21 Business & Breakfast. Networking

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

INside Story

by Michael Harold

I STARED AT MY FRIEND in disbelief last month when she told me that her 16-year-old daughter was not quite up to getting her driver’s license.

She wanted to wait a few years. A few years! I thought to myself, “What teenager doesn’t want a driver’s license.” My friend, a trial lawyer, was not surprised in the least since her daughter was, as she called it, a “poetry-loving free spirit.”

In other words, a Snapchat-addicted flake. I can’t say I blamed her. Like the first-year med student who thinks he has every potential disease known to man, the lawyer sees liability in all possible scenarios, including, but not limited to,

a directionally challenged teenager navigating the streets of New Orleans.

The day I turned fifteen in April 1980, the plan was to leave school early so I could arrive at the DMV before it closed. What was supposed to be the best birthday in high school turned out to be the cruelest when my parents informed me that I was not skilled enough to take on the challenges behind the wheel of their Ford LTD Crown Victoria. I had taken driver’s education classes at summer camp, which they felt were not good enough. Admittedly, they were pretty lame, and it did not help that I got into trouble on the

Educating drivers in the city that care forgot. third day of class when, in a silly vehicle simulator, I floored the gas pedal and “hit” an oncoming passenger while behind the steering wheel just to see what would happen. An alarm went off on the teacher’s control panel indicating a serious infraction had occurred from one of the student drivers.

Namely, me. My guess is the teacher warned my parents never to let me drive a car, much less a golf cart.

It’s not as if my parents were the King and Queen of vehicular safety. In fact, I shudder to think of the protective measures in place, or lack thereof, when I was a kid. No seatbelt enforcement, no car seats and parents who let their kids steer cars while sitting on their laps. My own grandparents actually encouraged me to sit on the armrest between them so I could 30

Inside New Orleans

see over the dashboard. I remember being envious of one friend in my eighth grade class who was allowed to occasionally drive home after his father had consumed a few too many martinis.

Let’s face it, the majority of New Orleans parents have broken the law by taking their teenage sons and daughters to remote spots for their first driving lesson.

I recently polled some friends about where they first learned to drive, and the responses were fascinating.

Most of the Jefferson Parish kids went to Jefferson Downs, while the New Orleans kids went to Audubon or City Park. Others went to empty parking lots like Pontchartrain Beach, Clearview Mall, UNO, Elmwood Industrial Park, and Lakewood Country Club. The clever parents took their kids to Metairie Cemetery, the one place where kids “couldn’t kill anyone,” and one friend learned to drive at Chalmette Battlefield.

My friend Virginia went to the old Uptown Square parking lot on a Sunday afternoon. Even though there was only one abandoned car in the lot, she still managed to hit it. My friend Donna’s father made her drive across the Huey P in a Cadillac convertible. If only my parents had been that cool—or in my case, stupid. My friend Betsy ran over a sprinkler at Lakewood, and fortunately her father, an Episcopal priest, was wearing his collar that day. The kids with families from the country got away with anything as they were free to drive all over farms and ranches with wild abandon. Nowadays, I understand the location of choice is Zephyr Field, which offers easy access and miles of concrete.

I finally got my own driver’s license two months after my 15th birthday with my Victor Manning driving certificate in hand. Within two weeks, I had hit one car in the parking lot of our neighborhood cleaners and had experienced the heart-stopping fear of getting my first speeding ticket. I still remember where it took place and won’t ever forget the theme song from Xanadu playing on the FM radio. I guess my parents weren’t so dumb after all. And now I understand why trial lawyers let their scatterbrained kids wait before getting their licenses. All in good time.

June-July 2017 31

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photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Rosemary Beach Getaway

by Leah Draffen

WITH AN ECLECTIC MIX of chic lines and eyecatching colors, this beach getaway has space for family and friends. The exterior welcomes guests with a lush tropical landscape and gardens surrounding the home, which is the largest residential property in Rosemary Beach.

Erin Schaumburg of Eros Home and Clothing worked with the family to create a bright and refreshing atmosphere to replace what was once dark and somewhat gothic. Erin says, “I met the homeowners from St. Louis, Missouri, through a previous client I helped to renovate their home after Katrina. As soon as they saw their dear friends’ home, they wanted me to help. I was happy to take on a new project—especially in such a gorgeous setting. What was originally a decorating project quickly became a full renovation.”

The now-bright white exterior was once dark brown. “It didn’t feel like a beach paradise when we started,” says Erin. “Our ultimate goal was to transform it into an inviting place for the family.”

A slice of the home that Erin wanted to make sure stayed was the intricate mosaic tile in the bathrooms. “I was immediately inspired by the tile when I walked in,” she says. “It is what inspired the rest of the house. They did not love it as first, but once I showed them my vision of lighting it up, they fell in love.”

The master bath’s beautiful blue tile wall contrasts with the freestanding tub and chic bath filler. The calming sand-toned mosaic tile on the bathroom floor leads to a walk-through shower behind the tile wall. A powder room and guest bathroom also boast colorful tile work. “The only tile we removed from the home was in the kitchen, which was a complete gut job,” says Erin. “The Mexican tile is absolutely beautiful. It

>>

June-July 2017 33

automatically had a factor of awe that was too great to remove.�

Another awe-factor is the breathtaking great room with espresso tongue-and-grove cathedral ceilings and grand iron chandeliers. The slipcover sofas and chaise were custom made. In fact, every piece of furniture

space built for entertaining.

The children’s rooms feature builtin beds placed strategically in the corner for optimal space to play. The layout did not allow for a bed to be centered, so Erin thought outside the box to create functional beds that could also double as sofas for a “hang-out space.” >>

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

in the home was custom made with the exception of the master bed.

Overlooking the great room is the new kitchen with a huge island to comfortably seat twelve. The warm tile of the kitchen floor truly adds rich contrast to the cool and clean tones of the cabinets and countertops. It’s a

June-July 2017 35

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Clockwise from top: A view from the rear garden toward the house; the calm and serene sleeping quarters; outdoor dining is a pleasure on the screen porch overlooking the pool.

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Inside New Orleans

And when the kids get restless, the pool and back yard provide plenty of room to play and soak up the sun.

So when St. Louis gets too chilly, the family will always have a warm and sunny rendezvous in Rosemary Beach. “They were the sweetest people to work with,” says Erin. “It was a joy designing this beach getaway for them. I hope it’s the perfect place to enjoy sun, family and friends.”

Traces

Port Orleans Brewery

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Zach Strief and brewmaster Brian Allen.

THE PORT ORLEANS BREWERY is the coolest new destination uptown on Tchopitoulas. Recently opened, this new brewery will feature clean, crisp ales and lagers, including a German-style helles, a pilsner, Czech-style schwarzbier, a brown ale and session IPA. Brewmaster Brian Allen will brew on a custom Metalcraft 30-barrel brewhouse with eight 60-barrel fermenters and six 60-barrel horizontal tanks for lagering. He says, “The brewery will have space to enlarge with up to ten more 60-barrel and two 90-barrel fermenters.”

As the craft beer industry expands in New Orleans, investor Zach Strief feels Port Orleans Brewery can meet the increased demand: “As we grow, we will develop seasonal

beers and specialty beers.”

The brewery taproom features a covered front patio and plenty of seating. There is a large garage door entrance, creating an open and welcoming entry into the taproom. The brick-lined interior walls and grand arched windows offer views of the brewing equipment. The taproom has a coppertop bar built of reclaimed barge wood and 16 taps for the brewery’s flagship and experimental beers.

Port Orleans Brewery is located at 4124 Tchopitoulas Street in New Orleans. Open seven days a week. Tours available. portorleansbrewingco.com.

June-July 2017 37

Into the Clouds NEW ORLEANS HAS LONG CONSIDERED the highlands of North Carolina a favorite playground, and it is no wonder. It would be hard to find a place that is so opposite to our own. The winding roads, mountains and hills are enough to put you in a new state of mind.

The jagged rock ledges, running creeks, waterfalls and mountain moss weave texture throughout the mountain terrain. Along Highway 64 near Cashiers, New Orleans developer Tim Bright found his piece of heaven at Toxaway Mountain. The Preserve at Rock Creek is a sanctuary that features some of the finest views of the Cashiers Plateau.

Highway 64 connects several mountain towns, from Highlands, through Cashiers, Lake Toxaway, Brevard and on to Asheville. The communities are each 38

Inside New Orleans

special in their own way. Highlands, at 4,110 feet, has a perfect town center to walk and shop. It is anchored by the Old Edwards Inn, which includes one of the best spas in the country!

There is a new restaurant in Cashiers called The Library Kitchen + Bar. It turns one of the mountain communities’ oldest structures into a hip new gathering spot with cuisine to match. Another favorite is the Canyon Kitchen—make a reservation, go early and sit on the back patio to soak up some mountain air.

If you have an afternoon to spend on Lake Glenville, try Signal Marina for a pontoon boat rental, and don’t miss the waterfalls that make their way directly into the lake. You will see more than a few LSU flags dotting the shoreline.

The Lake Toxaway community also has a new >>

The Library Kitchen + Bar.

The playful white squirrels are most often sighted on the campus of Brevard College.

June-July 2017 39

Left: The Blue Ridge Parkway has 176 bridges, none more stunning than the Linn Cove Viaduct.

Below: Looking Glass Falls in Pisgah National Forest.

The Hunger Games, filmed at DuPont State photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Forest in nearby Cedar Mountain, featured Triple Falls (shown right) and other very recognizable sights found on its 3 mile hike.

The Great American Eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross southwestern North Carolina on August 21, 2017. The high altitude and wide vistas will make for a once-ina-lifetime sight. For more information on the best vantage points, go to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

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Inside New Orleans

treasure. Sky Terra, a wellness retreat and weight loss spa, has opened in the Catatoga neighborhood. Guests come to learn healthy living strategies— and what an amazing place this is to take long walks, swim and play tennis!

The cool mountain air urges hiking the trails to discover long, breathtaking views and dramatic waterfalls. But one of our favorites, Looking Glass Falls, doesn’t even require a hike! It is just one of the many waterfalls located in Pisgah National Forest. Right down the road is Sliding Rock, where you can indeed slide down the waterfall!

The 469 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway are often called America’s favorite scenic drive. While no towns are actually located on the Parkway, there are amazing stopping points about every ten miles, some with a view, some with a hike, some with an aromatic forest. It is an explorer’s paradise, with a little something for everyone.

A visit to the highlands of North Carolina would not be complete without at least an afternoon in Asheville. The Sierra Nevada Brewery Taproom is exceptional, with an outdoor amphitheater and grown-up play space. But it is not the only brewery in the area. Downtown Asheville is flooded with craft brewers and tasting rooms. Don’t miss Cùrate, a real treat! And the Biltmore is everything you have ever heard it is. Another must see. The Historic Biltmore Village features the boutiques of New Orleans retailer, Jay Batt. It is great to have neighbors in high altitude places!

Wine Cellar

by Bill Kearney

ONE KNOWN GOAL FOR WINE CONSUMERS is to pursue wines that are affordable, or at least easier on the wallet than Grand Cru Burgundy. Finding a bargain evokes bragging rights as well as an addition to our next

varietals. The grapes are naturally stressed from growth in limestone soils and make for intense and long-lived wines.

The emergence of the Ribera created a strong competition to the older, more notable region of Rioja.

big wine purchase. I am often asked: “What quality wines are available that are ‘good buys’?”

It does not take a genius to spend $100 on a bottle of wine and enjoy it. Similarly, I am amazed at how many $100 wines are not worth $20. I find it inspiring and gratifying to find a $20 bottle that is often better than the $100 bottle.

This task is becoming more difficult as more consumers of wine flock to the hedonistic pleasures we have known.

While there are many great values, I must opine that the country presenting the greatest value ratio is Spain.

While producing some wonderful site wines, Spain is far more famous for its reds. Americans generally flock to a grape varietal such as cabernet, merlot or pinot noir, which creates an easier understanding of what we are drinking.

With some 600 different producers, over 150,000 acres and wine production that dates back to the 13th century, Rioja is recognizable to most seasoned wine consumers. In addition to tempranillo, there is a heavy influence of grenache in the wines of Rioja. You will also find grenache in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but the soils are dramatically different, as are the final cuvées. The style of Rioja wines have undergone a dramatic shift in the last 15 years. While built for long term, some producers would hold back releasing wines until after 15 years of barrel aging. Some of these wines were not substantial and lacked intensity. While it might be coincidental, this stylistic alteration occurred about the same time as Robert

Spain produces wines based upon their regions, and there are few that are cabernet sauvignon. Yet, I encourage you to let these beautiful wines speak to your palate, as they will provide a variety of distinctive pleasures based upon where they are from. The first thing to do in trying to understand Spanish wines is to recognize that the grapes are predominately tinto fino (tempranillo) and garnacha (grenache). While there are many wonderful and distinctive wine regions in Spain, the two with the highest quality— and not coincidentally most familiar to Americans—are the Ribera del Duero and Rioja.

The Ribera del Duero region is home to Vega Sicilia, one of the most sought-after wine labels in the world, located in the north central area of Spain along the Duero River.

The predominate grape varietal is tempranillo, which seems to flourish in the relatively flat and rocky terrain. Many producers in the Ribera will blend cabernet sauvignon or merlot to their final blend, and these wines are truly world class. Other than Vega Sicilia, some of the recognizable producers from this region include Dominio de Pingus, Tinto Pesquera and Hacienda Masterio. Tinto Pesquera is unique, producing wines using tempranillo without blending other

Parker burst onto the scene of wine rating.

Rioja wines now equal their counterparts in the Ribera del Duero in terms of their power.

That is not to say they are similar, as the grenache and the different soil and landscape create unique wines from producers such as Marques de Rioja, Contador, Finca Allende and Vina Tondonia.

With aging, it is not uncommon to find both intensity and finesse with wines from recognizable regions in Spain. A savvy wine buyer can find a Gran Riserva with 5 years of age for $25. Many tapas restaurants feature Spanish wines that you may not be familiar with. Ask the wine steward to help you—explain what you are looking for.

Experimentation with Spanish wines will be a rewarding and slightly different experience that should enable you to try multiple things.

The wines of Spain are fun and often valuebased opportunities for enjoying wines not typical in the marketplace.

Spanish Red Wines

June-July 2017 41

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Inside New Orleans

Spirits for the Southern Palate

Distilled in the Delta

by Mimi Greenwood Knight

DELTA LEMON COCKTAIL 3 muddled mint leaves 2 oz. lemonade 3 oz. Magnolia Vodka 1/2 oz. Sprite 1 orange slice dropped in

Muddle the mint leaves in a martini shaker. Add vodka, lemonade, and Sprite.

Shake and serve in a glass on the rocks. Add orange as a garnish.

JOEL BRANNAN LEARNED A LOT as he worked toward his geology degree at LSU. But the lessons he learned behind the bar in Baton Rouge’s popular Tigerland were equally as valuable. “I got to see and understand people’s palate and how it changes as they get older,” he says. “I saw how easy it was to introduce a drink recipe and have people come back asking for it. I saw people at their best and at their worst—I learned a lot about human nature.”

And with his easy-going disposition, the Covington native made connections in the spirits industry that would come in handy.

After graduation, Brannan did the sensible >>

A Magnolia Mule at the Barley Oak.

June-July 2017 43

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Joel Brannan and Thomas Brennan.

thing and took a job with an oil company, a job which saw him traveling the country and spending nights in hotel rooms alone. “That gave me a lot of time to think,” he says. What he thought about was hunting in Tensas Parish in the Louisiana Delta when he was young. Brannan knew that the qualities of that nutrient-rich soil, fed with centuries of river silt, made for some of the sweetest, most nutritious corn imaginable.

He’d eaten that corn. He’s seen it growing for miles around. “That’s when geology met spirits,” he says. He sat in those hotel rooms imagining the vodka he could make from that Louisiana Delta corn. Business trips also afforded him the opportunity to visit a lot of bars in a lot of towns, chew the fat with a lot of bartenders and

continue his study of customers, observing their likes and dislikes and drinking habits.

Many of us have million-dollar ideas that never get further than some scribblings on the back of a bar napkin. But this is when fate gave Brannan a nudge. He traveled to South Florida to purchase a boat and found himself in a local watering hole where he met an artisanal distiller. The two struck up a conversation. One thing led to another, and Brannan found himself touring the distillery. It didn’t take long before the two men made a gentlemen’s bargain. Brannan would ship his Louisiana Delta corn to Florida, where it would be distilled into vodka. He took a deep breath and pushed forward.

His next obstacle was one of the toughest. Brannan had to convince his parents, Wayne and Angelle, that it was a good idea to leave his secure oil company job and roll the dice on a vodka label. “My first problem was

my mom,” he says. “She’s very religious and grew up anti-alcohol. I knew she wouldn’t like the idea of me making my living in the spirits industry. I literally had to sit down with her and go over Bible verses and explain that what I wanted to do was okay. My dad was more worried about me giving up the security of the oil company for a very uncertain thing.” But once the older Brannans were onboard, they threw themselves behind their son 100 percent. “Dad’s helping me with store displays now,” says Brannan, “and Mom is wood burning our logo into wooden pallets.”

The name was a no-brainer.

Brannan wanted something that would offer a sense of place, that would conjure up South Louisiana and all it represents. “Magnolia” was the obvious choice. So, what’s the next step to take, when you’re considering a food- or spirit-related enterprise in the New Orleans area? You need >>

June-July 2017 45

The Moscow Mule.

Did You Know?

The drinking of vodka has been documented as far back as the fourth century in Eastern and Northern Europe. And while the Russians and the Poles both claim to be the first to distill the colorless, odorless spirit, most historical references credit Russia.

Vodka’s popularity in the United States began just after World War II during a short-lived, post-war glow of friendship between Russia and the United States.

American John G. Martin of Heublein Co. (known at the time for his A-1 Steak Sauce) bought the Smirnoff brand from Russian Vladimir Smirnov and marketed it with a cocktail recipe he called the Moscow Mule—vodka and Cock ‘N Bull ginger beer. It was an instant hit. But popularity came to a screeching halt when relations between the United States and the Soviet Union soured.

Scrambling to reclaim his market, Martin enlisted celebs like Groucho Marx, Woody Allen and Zsa Zsa Gabor to promote the idea that vodka— unlike bourbon—could not be detected on the breath. All the better for a little day drinking. Then in 1962, in perhaps the greatest product placement success story in the history of Hollywood, Sean Connery as James Bond uttered his iconic line, “Shaken, not stirred.” And vodka took its place in the American liquor cabinet.

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Inside New Orleans

to get the Brennan family onboard.

Lucky for Brannan, Thomas Brennan, fourth generation in the Brennan’s Restaurant dynasty, is a close college friend. Brennan, who’d grown up in Covington and attended St. Paul’s, had graduated from the University of Alabama and was putting a marine biology degree to work at the Aquarium of the Americas. “I called Thomas and told him what I was considering,” says Brannan. “He told me to give him a call when I started a tequila company.”

But it wasn’t long before Brannan had convinced his old friend to sign on. “I knew I couldn’t do this by myself,” he says. “Thomas is a go-getter. I really I needed his help.”

And so, this time, it was Brennan convincing his parents that the gamble was worth taking. Tommy and Connie Brennan were—in their son’s words— terrified.

“But I told them I’m young enough to take a chance,” he says. “If it doesn’t work out, I still have plenty time to go back to a safe job. I really wanted to join Joel, and see where this can take us. They didn’t take too much convincing. Ten minutes later, I called Joel and said, ‘I’m in!’”

The two sat down and came up with a business plan. Then the cold calling began. “We wanted to make personal contacts with local grocery stores, to keep things small and personal,” says Brannan. “Once we convinced the stores’ buyers to put Magnolia Vodka in inventory, we needed to follow through and make sure they were actually putting it on the shelves at each location. It was important that they see our faces and get to know us. That’s where Thomas is invaluable. People can’t help but like him. Then we needed local bars >> June-July 2017 47

Lemon Basil Magnolia Martini 1/2 oz. lemon juice 1/2 oz. St. Germain Liquor 3 oz. Magnolia Vodka 2 muddled mint leaves garnish with lemon peel.

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Inside New Orleans

to put us on their specialty cocktail menus.

The best way to do that was to sit down with them and have them taste our vodka alongside other labels. The flavor is so clean, so smooth and so sweet. If we can get them to taste it, we’re in the door. It’s also gluten-free.”

“I asked Joel, ‘How do I do this?’ Then I scheduled the hardest meeting of all,” says Brennan. “I made an appointment to go see my Aunt Ti and my Aunt Lally at Commander’s Palace. They didn’t go easy on me. They made me earn it. But then they gave me lots of great advice. They helped me come up with some cocktail recipes, and they put us behind the bar.”

“I told Thomas that’s the scariest thing you’ll have to do,” laughs Brannan. “If you can do that, the rest should be easy.”

The guys are distilling 900 bottles a month now. They just purchased $85,000 worth of distilling equipment and five acres in Tensas Parish to build their own

distillery. “We’re designing it to look like a rustic barn and including a tasting room,” says Brannan. “That area is full of North Louisiana hunters all winter, doctors and lawyers from Monroe, and there’s really nothing else for them to do up there. We’re two miles from Lake Bruin, so during the summer the area is popular for fishing and water skiing. We’ll schedule tastings and other events and make the distillery a real destination for people.”

“We’ve worked to get Magnolia Vodka into dozens of bars, restaurants and grocery stores from here to Shreveport, and we just signed with Republic National Distributors,” says Brennan. “But we still want to keep things small and personal. It means a lot to a store owner or restaurant owner when we walk through the door. We don’t want to lose that. We always want it to feel like a small, local

company—to keep it personal, to keep the charm.”

“This is vodka blended for the Southern palate,” says Brannan.

“Louisiana has always been known for bringing flavor to the table with a variety of foods. That’s what we want to do with vodka, distilling it six times

through an elite fermentation process with some of the most nutrient-rich corn grown. We’ll soon be distilling it here in Louisiana, and we want to keep it here, as an exclusive Louisiana vodka for a while. Then we’ll think about spreading east. Our market is basically anywhere a magnolia tree grows.”

At the Table

A CURIOSITY OF NEW ORLEANS food/weather continuum is that during the summer, we don’t eat many cold dishes. The prime example is the mythical rule that one should never eat raw oysters during a month without an “R.” Let’s debunk that once and for all time.

The law was enforced in the 1800s, when refrigeration was sparse.

Indeed, oysters are among the most perishable of foods, and were prone to so many possible diseases that the lack of an “R” made sense. But oysters are no longer hauled into town in piles of sacks on the beds of open trucks in the sunshine. Most oysters are pulled out of the water to go straight into a walk-in cooler on the boat. Then, they’re transferred into a refrigerated trucks and brought to the restaurants, where they’re put in yet another walk-in cooler. Oysters are never out of refrigeration.

And that law about the 50

Inside New Orleans

month’s name was passed and enforced in New York City, not New Orleans. As the Yankees say, “Fuggeddah bout it!”

And so, our continuouslyiced oysters are available through the summer. And this year, they are exceptionally fine. I can’t remember a time when raw oysters in restaurants were bigger than they are now. And the bigger the raw oyster, the better its flavor. Leave the smaller ones for those who prefer the grilled and baked bivalves.

Many other dishes are served cold. But for some reason, few of them ever caught on here.

Gazpacho, for example. You would think it would be perfect as a soup on a New Orleans summertime menu. The stuff is almost a Creole sauce from the outset.

Example: Borgne, the mostlyseafood restaurant operated by John Besh and chef Brian Landry, takes advantage of the great Creole >>

illustration: GRETCHEN ARMBRUSTER

by Tom Fitzmorris

June-July 2017 51

From top: Oysters on the half shell; Gazpacho; Shrimp remoulade.

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Inside New Orleans

tomatoes around in spring and summer. The chef does a take on the tomatoes, using various heirloom varieties as the base of his cold tomato soup. The usual tint is yellow, and the texture is smooth. Both of those are departures from the standard chunky, red gazpacho, but the only way you could not love this would be if you didn’t like tomatoes. Borgne. CBD: 601 Loyola Ave. (Hyatt Regency Hotel), 613-3860.

Another outstanding gazpacho is made as a soup special at Franklin in the Marigny. This one is not only cold but thick, with a deep, dark-red color and a host of vegetables beyond the usual ones. Beets, for example. It’s served in a big enough portion that you could make a meal on it. But few people do, and so it’s not often enough served.

This is a theme we will encounter many more times in our search for cold dishes. Franklin. Marigny: 2600 Dauphine St., 267-0640.

Frank Brigtsen had a great idea during one hot summer years ago. He liked guacamole—who doesn’t? But he also makes a great red version of shrimp remoulade. One day, he put the two demiingredients together and—bingo! The two flavors worked fantastically with each other, and thus was born one of the signature dishes for the little bistro in the Riverbend. Brigtsen’s. Riverbend: 723 Dante St., 861-7610.

And that brings us to shrimp remoulade in general. The latest info is that the white, mayonnaisebased remoulade sauce is taking over menus around town. The uniquely New Orleans red version is fading from the scene. The red color comes from ketchup or some variant of it and/or paprika. Either way (and either color, for that matter), shrimp remoulade is one of the most distinctive and best appetizers in the entire Creole cookbook. Rather than choose a titular best shrimp remoulade, allow me to present the dozen best, in all styles.

Antoine’s. French Quarter: 713 St Louis St., 581-4422. The spiciest remoulade around, in the red style with a nice hit of cayenne.

Arnaud’s. French Quarter: 813 Bienville St., 523-5433. The definitive remoulade sauce in the red style, with a distinctly sharp flavor from the mustard and the paprika.

Borgne. CBD: 601 Loyola Ave. (Hyatt

Regency Hotel), 613-3860. Chef Brian Landry was the executive chef at Galatoire’s, so he knows most of what needs to be known about shrimp remoulade. Borgne’s is no mere copy— richer and thicker than most, with a rustic quality.

Brigtsen’s. Riverbend: 723 Dante St., 861-7610. The reddish-brown style, influenced by Commander’s, where Frank Brigtsen began his career. His brilliant insight: shrimp, remoulade and avocados are a brilliant troika of flavors.

Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse.

French Quarter: 716 Iberville St., 5222467. Although the shrimp remoulade is very good, what really hits the spot is the salad of tomatoes and onions topped with both remoulade sauce and blue cheese.

Galatoire’s. French Quarter: 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021. Probably the closest recipe to the ancient French remoulade, the sauce contains lots of crunchy little morsels of vegetables, Gallagher’s Grill. Covington: 509 S. Tyler St., 985-892-9992. I haven’t said much about the shrimp criterion yet. The shrimp here are exceptionally big and beautiful. White remoulade sauce finishes the masterwork.

Peppermill. Metairie: 3524 Severn Ave,. 455-2266. White remoulade, heavy on the mustard, generously served.

Tujague’s. French Quarter: 823 Decatur St., 525-8676. Like the restaurant itself, the remoulade is an ancient recipe, using more oil than most.

Upperline. Uptown: 1413 Upperline St., 891-9822. They have both red and white remoulade sauces here. But the signature is the red remoulade on shrimp resting on fried green tomatoes, a now-common dish created by the Upperline’s late, great chef Tom Cowman.

You can’t talk long about shrimp>> June-July 2017 53

Traditional Peruvian ceviche.

remoulade without noting its frequent companion on the appetizer plate.

Crabmeat ravigote (the name varies from place to place) is jumbo lump with a very light, mayo-based sauce and a scattering of capers. The definitive version is at Galatoire’s, which is certainly the great depot for jumbo lump crabmeat. The only problem is the annual absence of crabmeat in the colder months.

All this talk of seafood served cold brings to mind sushi. I am tempted to say that sushi and sashimi really shouldn’t be served ice cold, but at cool room temperature. In fact, I think I’ll just make that statement and move on, with a promise that we will take a full inventory study of those wonderful Japanese specialties before it starts getting cold again.

Instead, we take a slight turn into the worlds of ceviche. That Latin54

Inside New Orleans

American culinary specialty (it comes from Peru, but has spread throughout South and Central America) is easy to love, and offers so many different possibilities that at one of our Eat Club dinners a few years ago we has a dozen different versions. (It was at the extinct RioMar.) Unfortunately, few restaurants have filled that gap. The two best vendors are the new-style Mexican restaurants operated by John Besh and partner Aron Sanchez (Johnny Sanchez) and Zea’s running mate, Mizado Cocina. A dig through the menu in both situations reveals a striking number of different fish and shellfish, marinated for a day or so in an equally wide range of concoctions. Always ask whether there are specials. Ceviche and its like are not only light on the palate but possessed of sharp, refreshing flavors. I expect that we will see more and more ceviche as

years go by. Mizado Cocina. Mid-City: 5080 Pontchartrain Blvd., 885-5555.

Johnny Sanchez. CBD: 930 Poydras St., 304-6615.

And now the lightning round, a barrage of refreshing, cold, fresh eats that I hope you encounter often as the sun blasts its rays down upon us. Gelato: Italian ice cream … We are seeing the addition of numerous gelaterias around town, yet Angelo Brocato is still with us and better than ever … Watermelon: The ever-rounder fruit tastes better and sweeter with every year … Vichyssoise: Potato and leek soup, served cold, with even less currency on menus. Go to Antoine’s and ask for some crumbled blue cheese to sprinkle into the soup … and, maybe the best of all, because it recalls our childhoods: Sno-Balls. Make mine the yellow ice cream flavor.

Stay cool!

June-July 2017 55

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Inside New Orleans

Flourishes 1. Metal and resin console in traditional style with light wood finish. 66”W x 15”D x 32”H. American Factory Direct,

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Mandeville, 985-871-0300. 2. (Back) Peacock Alley Alena Aqua Standard Sham, French medallion printed design, embroidery detail on flange edge, $165. (Front) Matouk Insignia Decorative Pillow, 15” x 21” in Sapphire linen with white cording and applique monogram; fill included, $144. The Linen Registry, Metairie, 831-0201. 3. Relax in this super comfortable and durable

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Recreational Chair in your favorite Big Green Egg colors, $69.95. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 985-893-8008.

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4. Rustic carved-bead wooden tray, large, $58; small, $48. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, 985-624-4045.

5. The Spa at the Grand’s boutique offers fashion-forward clothing, designer jewelry and products for a healthy lifestyle. Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa. Visit grandhotelmarriott.com or call 251928-9201. 6. Jessica chair, $3,150, and ottoman, $1,654, by Milo Baughman.

Bockman Forbes Designs, available at

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Virginia Dunn, 899-8604.

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June-July 2017 57

Flourishes

1 2

1. Big Claws by Michael Maples, overall size 20” x 32”, $350. NOLA Beans, 267-0783. 2. Two Stripes chair from

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the Fingerprint Collection by Bunakara. Available in blue, red, and black, $760. History Antiques & Interiors, Covington, 985-892-0010. 3. Fantasy Fish made of copper, $100. Little Miss Muffin, 482-8200. 4. Sand and mist bisque vessel vase; small, $90; large, $115.

EMB Interiors, Mandeville, 985-626-1522.

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5. Byrn hardwood cabinet with two textured resin veneer doors and antique silver base.

30.5”W x 17.25”D x 66”H. Price upon request. Eclectic Home, 866-6654.

6. Hand-finished transitional chest made in the USA. The French Mix by Jennifer Dicerbo, Covington, 985-809-3152.

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June-July 2017 59

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INside Look

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Beach Needs

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1. 18kt yellow gold necklace with aquamarine and diamonds. Please call for price. Adler’s, 523-5292. 2. Multi Goombay Smashed dresses: Chasteen dress, $78; Alexa shift style, $198; Little Lilly classic shift, $54.

Palm Village, a Lily Pulitzer Signature Store, Mandeville, 985-778-2547. 3. Pavé chandelier drop earrings by Haute Bride, $310. Fully customizable. Town & Country Bridal, 5237027. 4. Jill Shampine fabric tote, $150. The Shop at The Collection, The Historic New Orleans Collection, 598-7147. 5. Biba’s own

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custom lipstick with Vitamins A, C and E, $20. A portion of all services and product sales go to St. Jude Research monthly. Biba Isla Salon, 810-6184.

June-July 2017 61

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Beach Needs 1. Striped linen romper, $198. FeBe, Metairie, 835-5250. 2. Tanya Taylor top and pant set.

Top, $375; pants, $295. Sensi Studio stars bag, $230. SOSUSU Boutique, 390-5026.

3. Tacori Promise Bracelet in sterling silver and 18K yellow gold, $2,700. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, Metairie, 831-2602. 4. Reserve Collection traditional fit striped campshirt made of 100% linen, $99.50 and Reserve flat front short, $89.50. Jos. A. Banks, New Orleans and Metairie, 528-9491.

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June-July 2017 63

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INside Look 1

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Beach Needs 1. Tie-die v-neck top, $56. The Lifestyle Store at Franco’s, Mandeville, 985-7920200. 2. Mock scuba dress in Pretty Abstract, $190. Beth DePass Kevan Hall Sport, kevanhallsport.com. 3. 14k yellow gold earrings thread through, feature two rows set in a bypass style, $695. Lee Michael’s Fine Jewelry, Metairie, 8320000. 4. One-piece bathing suit from Anita with wired cups for support and shaping; sizes 32-42 C-DD cups, $145. Bra Genie, Mandeville, 985-951-8638. 5. Black chef’s

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apron, perfect for Father’s Day. Antoine’s Restaurant, 581-4422, antoines.com.

June-July 2017 65

2 01 7 “I never dreamed about success. I worked for it.”

- Estée Lauder

2017

Features 3 Grace W. Kaynor

Grace W. Kaynor Designs

6 Stacked with Confidence

I work with dynamic women who inspire me every day. I hope I inspire them. I believe women inspire other women to be their best in every capacity of their lives whether they are sitting with them around the boardroom table or reading about their successes in Inside New Orleans.

Designer Tory Burch says, “I think you can have it all. You just have to know it’s going to work.” I agree with her—a woman has to believe in herself and her vision to be successful in both her business and her life.

On the following pages, you will meet some successful women who dared to believe in themselves, their businesses and their personal dreams. I hope they will inspire you to pursue your dreams as well.

I know they are an inspiration to us here at Inside New Orleans.

Inside New Orleans

Inside New Orleans

18 Mandy Schexnaydre Wienhusen

7 Susan Stall SOSUSU

18 Donna Shay

8 Erin Saucier

19 Biba Islah

10 Billie Comeaux and Grace Comeaux-Piro

19 Sr. Melanie A. Guste, RSCJ, Headmistress The Academy of the Sacred Heart

Eclectic Home

Didriksen, Saucier, Woods & Pichon, APLC

American Factory Direct Furniture

11 The Women of NOLA Lending, A Division of Fidelity Bank 12 Power of Women 15 Beth DePass

Town & Country Bridal Café Beignet

Biba Isla Salon

20 Violet Peters

Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau 21 Wendy Dolan and

Serah Ridolfo Get Online NOLA

Beth DePass Kevan Hall Sport

21 Merry Sorrells,

16 Team Saint Anthony’s Gardens

St. Martin’s Episcopal School

17 Katie Peralta and Rachel Jones Triton Stone Group

--Lori Murphy, publisher

2

5 Penny Francis and Casi Francis St. Julian

17 Peggy Rodriguez everyBody wellness

Head of School 22 Tatum Gardner My First Little Black Dress

23 Lauren Prats Hi-Brow Beauty Bar

23 Heather Calder Realty Group NOLA

Grace W. Kaynor

by Shauna Grissett

In November 2014, professional interior designer

acquired a masters in the history of decorative arts from the

Grace W. Kaynor, along with co-owner Virgina McCollam, a

Cooper-Hewitt and Parson School of Design, specializing in

writer/producer and film location manager, opened Sotre in

18th century European furniture and Asian ceramics. Then,

a double-shotgun cottage on New Orleans’ iconic Magazine

she worked in the editorial department of the magazine

Street. More curated than collected, Sotre offers an extensive

Antiques before commencing her studies in interior design

mix of furniture, accessories, jewelry, custom linens and

at Parsons. Grace reflects, “From day one at Parsons, I said, ‘I

unique gifts created by the best designers and most highly

should have been doing this all my life.’” Upon graduation,

skilled artisans working today. Grace’s refined but eclectic

she worked with Jennifer Flanders in New York City for

taste is reflected in Sotre’s polished interior. Each room is set

several years before moving back to New Orleans in 2008

up as a vignette corresponding to rooms in a home. Grace’s

with her husband, Sandy, and their two children, Granville

interior design business operates out of the store as well.

and Phoebe.

Grace attended the Louise S. McGhee School from

One of the first projects Grace undertook was the total

kindergarten through high school and went to Southern

renovation of her family’s new home, a Greek-Revival center

Methodist University, majoring in political science with a

hall cottage on Camp Street, built c.1850. The spectacular

minor in art history. Then Grace breezed through Tulane Law

makeover was named the 2016 Renovation of the Year by

and received her J.D. When she moved to Manhattan, she

New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles and was featured in the

realized the legal profession wasn’t for her, and she decided

March 2017 issue of Southern Living.

to explore her creative side.

Knowing she needed a strong foundation in the arts to be successful in this highly competitive world, Grace

In addition to refurbishing her home and before opening Sotre, Grace launched her interior design business, Grace W. Kaynor Designs; in 2010, she worked on the >> Women IN Business 3

Grace W. Kaynor

Southern Living Idea House at Terra Bella in Covington.

Things were going along swimmingly for the Kaynors.

Grace explains how her store is different from others: “Even though I am qualified to sell fine antiques, many stores

Sandy, a brilliant mergers and acquisitions attorney, was

on Magazine Street are already doing a great job of that. So I

flourishing at Jones Walker. Granville, a championship tennis

wanted a novel approach. I look for pieces that are handmade

player, was studying at an elite Austin, Texas, boarding school.

or hand-stitched, items such as Sacha Nicholas fine china and

And Phoebe, the youngest, who has cerebral palsy, was receiving

Baobob candles.”

the best medical care and education available.

Then, the events of October 2, 2012, unfolded, and

The items in her store are not only exclusive and handcrafted, they are natural and sustainable. Grace is committed to

everything changed in an instant. While walking outside of

the environment and uses non-toxic materials; she only stocks

the house after dinner, Sandy was confronted by three armed

products that she would have in her own home. “I am a brand

gunman and was shot. Sandy, Grace, Granville and Phoebe’s

ambassador for ‘Wellness Within Your Walls,’ so 90 percent of

lives were forever transformed.

everything in my store is environmentally friendly. So you don’t

Sandy’s spinal cord was severed. In addition, he lost several organs and sustained a traumatic brain injury

have to sacrifice style in order to be ecofriendly.”

A wide range of linens makes up a significant part of the

because of complications from his many surgeries. This

store’s business, including Julia B. and Matouk. (Sotre has been

incomprehensible accident left him completely dependent,

named Matouk’s fastest-growing small store in America.) “I like

needing 24-hour nursing care. Grace has made it her life’s

to combine different styles and labels in order to create a custom

mission to keep Sandy at home and her family together. In

look for my clients, something that reflects not only my design

doing so, she has faced hurdle after hurdle, and continues to

sense but the personal preference of my customers.”

fight the overwhelming financial and emotional burdens that come with this staggering undertaking.

Sotre offers items for everyone’s budget, something else that sets this boutique apart. “Not everything in my store is

In addition to caring for Sandy, her children and running a

‘precious,’ or has to hurt the pocketbook. I have pieces that start

full-time business, Grace has become an outspoken advocate for

at $38 and go up to $1,000. Beauty and great style don’t have a

the victims of violent crime, often speaking publically about her

dollar value.”

own experience. Devastated by the accident, Grace says, “I relive

Grace’s multi-faceted background in the arts, exhaustive

the nightmare of that night every time I look at my beautiful

education and world travels all contribute to her brilliant eye

husband in his diminished capacity. I hate that this happened,

for inspired design as well as her distinctive perspective as an

because so many lives have been ruined.” Both Grace and

interior designer. Sotre represents the culmination of her studies

Granville have publically forgiven the men who shot Sandy. It is

and experiences and reflects Grace’s love of the artistic and the

of the utmost importance to Grace that she set a good example

visual. Whether shopping for scents, objects, jewels, linens or an

for her children by not being resentful or angry with regard to

interior designer, Sotre is your one-stop shop.

these individuals. In fact, she believes Sotre is the constructive upshot of her family’s tragedy.

“The store was an outgrowth, a result of the accident. It was a

Additional accolades include: Grace designed a table for the Lenox Hill Neighborhood House Gala (April 2017), “Birds of a Feather Glitter Together,” and it was the only table featured

practical matter because I needed to care for my family financially.

in the Style section of The New York Times. She is in Southern

And, instead of dwelling on the negative, I decided to channel my

Living’s Preferred Designer Network and was chosen to be one

creative energies into a more positive direction.” Grace continues,

of the designers for Coastal Living’s 20th Anniversary celebration

“It’s so ironic, because on the night of the shooting, shortly before

(April 2017).

it happened, Sandy and I were talking about my interior design business. He told me that I needed to expand, to open up my own

4

Inside New Orleans

For more information on Grace’s W. Kaynor Designs, please

showroom so more people could see my work and what I was

go to gracekaynordesigns.com where you will find photos of her

capable of doing.” Just two years later, Grace did exactly that and

work and can shop from a selection of items from Sotre. Sotre,

opened Sotre’s doors to the public.

3933 Magazine St., 304-9475.

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functional and timeless space.

Though formal, traditional décor tends to be the norm in New Orleans, Penny says the city’s diverse mixture of cultures and styles support her design philosophy. “We have an appreciation for the architecture and history, but our décor doesn’t have to all be from one period or style,” says Penny. “We juxtapose styles in a way that they come together looking collected and curated.”

Penny has been obsessed with furniture and design since she was 5 years old. She says, “I always knew this was something I wanted to do.” A member of both ASID and IIDA, she opened Eclectic Home on Oak Street in 2000 to fill a huge void for diverse home products in this market and to help showcase her unique style.

“We pride ourselves in exploring new materials that are otherwise unavailable to see how they can evolve in a space. The store explains my point of view and allows me to showcase what I truly am—eclectic!”

Inside the two-story, 7,000-square-foot space, Penny and Casi enjoy making “style more accessible and attainable” by helping customers visualize their project in a way that is both enjoyable and personal. “I get feedback from customers all the time who say, ‘when you want something different, this is where you have to go,’” smiles Penny. “I’m so passionate about what we do, it means so much to know that my customers are, too!”

Penny Francis and Casi Francis St. Julian Eclectic Home embodies its namesake: elements from a variety of resources, systems and styles. Owner and principal designer Penny Francis and her daughter, Casi Francis St. Julian, carry the namesake through each and every design project. “Together we approach projects by first understanding the client, their environment and how they live to create spaces that are truly a reflection of them,” says Penny.

“The best part about designing is knowing you play an integral part in putting your footprints on someone’s sanctuary,” says Casi. As senior designer, Casi works alongside her mother to offer complete interior design services and a curated selection of décor, furnishings and accessories from a variety of styles and manufacturers. A lover of the world of interiors, she is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design with a BFA in Interior Design. Her patience and technical skills allow her to communicate effectively with clients to achieve their ultimate goal—a beautiful,

Eclectic Home is located at 8211 Oak St., 866-6654. eclectichome.net.

Women IN Business 5

Stacked with Confidence With a little lipstick, coffee and

a smile, the businesswomen in our

K. Jahnke’s The Well-Spoken Woman is a

their friends, clients, customers, coworkers,

guide to looking and sounding your best.

employees and families. While every

The hilarious Mindy Kaling’s book, Why Not

remarkable businesswoman puts her best face

Me?, shares humorous yet insightful and deeply

forward, she often keeps a bag of tricks to make

intimate essays about being a woman in business.

This stack of reads includes powerful women’s advice, stories and rules for becoming—or continuing—as an influential woman in business. New Rules of the Game

Inside New Orleans

women in the workplace and Christine

community make a positive impact on

it through each day.

6

by Susan Packard includes strategies for

So grab a read, feel empowered and continue to lead with the grace that only a woman can have.

And take it from the women of Inside Publications— these all pair well with a glass of wine!

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her clothing and shoes so that each piece is even more special. “If you spend a lot of money on an outfit, you definitely don’t want to see it at an event or even walking down the street,” she smiles. “We want every client to feel excited about what they’ve bought. I bring in pieces that are really wearable, but also very different.”

SOSUSU lines include Jonathan Simkhai, Costerellos, DROMe, Tanya Taylor and Maticevski, which Susu is pictured wearing.

“The buying process has been fun, but also overwhelming. Each month gets better and better as I continue to learn what our clients want.”

With jewelry, bags and shoes, SOSUSU is able to complete the look. The walls at the rear of the store are lined with shoes of all colors, heights and styles from labels such as Rupert Sanderson, Jerome C. Rousseau, Robert Clergerie, Laurence Dacade and Malone Souliers, which Susu is also pictured wearing.

“I have created a shoe boutique,” Susu laughs.

“We carry almost-all European brands that can accompany an outfit as the statement or as the complement!”

“I love when a client leaves thrilled with what they have purchased—that has been my favorite part of this experience so far.”

Susan Stall “Try some things,” says Susu Stall about

I travel often to Paris and New York to visit my

clothing. “I often remind clients to not take

children. This allows me to explore the unique

fashion so seriously. A fun accessory can make a

experience European shopping offers.”

simple tee and jeans a chic outfit.”

Susu opened SOSUSU luxury boutique in

The chic, pretty space on Magazine Street invites clients to shop for everything

December 2016 to bring new lines to the New

from simple staples to edgy dresses to show-

SOSUSU is located at 3427 Magazine St.

Orleans fashion offerings. “As an empty-nester,

stopping shoes. Susu orders limited runs on

309-5026. sosusuboutique.com.

Women IN Business 7

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Erin Saucier It’s almost inconceivable to think that Erin Saucier, the managing partner of Didriksen Saucier Woods & Pichon, was undecided

work product that its clients have come to expect with new partners, Trey

about whether she wanted to practice law when she entered Tulane

Woods and Jeremy Pichon. There are four partners and one associate at

University School of Law. Saucier good-naturedly explains, “I always

the firm, whose lawyers were recognized as among the Times Picayune

knew I wanted to go to Tulane law school; I just didn’t know if I wanted

Louisiana’s Top Lawyers for 2016.

to be a lawyer. And, it was the only school to which I applied, so if

In April 2016, Saucier, along with Caleb Didriksen and Tony Clayton,

I didn’t get in, I figured I wasn’t going to law school! In the end, it

of Clayton Fruge & Ward of Port Allen, Texas, had an impressive court

worked out, and I loved being there.” She must have enjoyed her time

victory. They represented a woman who suffered grievous injuries after her

at Tulane because Saucier graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2002, was

husband’s Freightliner truck moved despite having its emergency brake

a member of Order of the Coif and served on Tulane’s Law Review as a

on, according to the suit. Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks

Notes and Comments Editor. At Didriksen, she specializes in complex,

North America LLC, and the suit was filed against Daimler Trucks; the

multi-party personal injury, asbestos and products liability cases. She

husband’s employer, KLLM Transport Services LLC and her husband’s and

also handles estates, succession and insurance defense cases.

KLLM’s insurers. The jury awarded the firm’s client $51.5 million dollars,

Didriksen Saucier Woods & Pichon Law Firm is a general civil

8

of providing a larger scope of ownership and the continued superior

the largest judgment ever given to a single plaintiff in the history of

litigation firm that focuses on liability determinations of many types,

Orleans Parish Civil Court. Saucier says, “That was a great case. The plaintiff

including torts, professional malpractice, product liability, insurance

and her family are fantastic people, and we were honored to represent

and corporate defense, and subrogation. The firm is an outgrowth of

them. We have a balance of plaintiff’s work and defense work at the

Didriksen Law Firm, PLC, founded by Caleb Didriksen. (Mr. Didriksen,

firm, and that was obviously a plai ntiff’s case. It’s one of the nice things

well known for his technical expertise, also has an engineering degree,

about having a technically complex practice—you are able to help people

holds a license as a general contractor and is a licensed pilot.) The

and companies who really need help. Plus, I’m able to learn something

new corporation was formed effective January 1, 2016, with the goal

completely new all of the time. With each new case, I get to dive into a

Inside New Orleans

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new field and learn all about it - I love it.”

Saucier is a New Orleans girl through and through. She attended Sacred Heart, from kindergarten all the way through high school. Then,

B U S I N E S S

all quite curious, and that helps doing complex work for our clients. We have a very broad practice and want to be a full-service shop.”

The firm’s boutique size allows the attorneys to work closely

after graduating from Sacred Heart, she went to Emory, in Atlanta, for

together, providing their clients with the kind of personal attention that

her undergraduate degree. But, she couldn’t resist the siren call of the

they need and deserve. “We work as a team toward a resolution, and

Big Easy and returned home. “‘Hotlanta’ was too cold for me! I missed

the more perspectives we have on a case, the better it works out for our

New Orleans and my family too much, so I came back home as soon as

clients. When you support someone from stem to stern, which is how

I graduated from college.”

we approach all of our cases, you really develop a relationship with your

After law school, Saucier worked as an associate at Phelps

client. The whole firm works for you. We don’t have individual clients;

Dunbar in its general business group. Then, life took its natural course.

rather, we all serve all of our clients as a team. In order to have a great

She took a few years off to raise her three children; her oldest son is

team environment, you have to enjoy working with your colleagues,

now in eighth grade at Jesuit and her twins, a boy and a girl, are in

which we do. One of the things I really like about my job is that if I had

fifth grade at Christian Brothers and Sacred Heart, respectively. “I have

to leave, for, say a family emergency, I know that everyone would cancel

a very busy life, and my family is understanding. It’s full tilt between

their plans immediately and take over for me. The support is amazing

the kids’ regular school stuff, their after- school stuff, and our work

here, and that’s a great feeling that lends to a great work product. When

stuff—my husband works in finance. My kids like to hear what’s going

you have that sort of attitude, it makes you and your clients comfortable.”

on at work and stories about the courtroom.”

Saucier applied to Didriksen for a part-time position to do document review after her hiatus as a legal practitioner, but it turned into a full-time job. “I wanted to get back into law, just to sort of flex my muscles. It was supposed to be a part time gig. And ... well, I never left. I wasn’t planning to go back to work full time, but I found a place with interesting work and people that I liked. It was an opportunity that continued to grow.”

The scope and complexity of the legal work that Didriksen is capable of providing to its clients is unique, and that’s why Saucier jumped onboard. “One of the things I like about being here is that we’re

Didriksen, Saucier, Woods & Pichon, APLC, is located at 3114 Canal Street in New Orleans. 586-1600. dswplaw.com.

Women IN Business 9

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Billie Comeaux and Grace Comeaux-Piro As you walk through American Factory Direct Furniture, you will be amazed at the breathtaking showroom design and delighted by the friendly staff.

Bob and Billie’s journey began when her mother introduced them. It was a marriage of ideas and talent! Their honeymoon was spent at the furniture market in North Carolina. “It has been furniture ever since. Our passion for the business and our love for God have been the root of our success in business,” says Billie. “He has always protected and guided us in the way He knows best”.

Blessings have come in the form of expansion of the Mandeville location, with additional stores in Mississippi and Baton Rouge and Clearance Centers in Mandeville and Baton Rouge. Billie says, “Our stateof-the-art Distribution Center enables us to compete with larger national companies in our area. It gives us efficiency and buying power to offer the lowest prices.”

AFD’s mission statement is: “For generations, our family serving yours with honesty, integrity, fairness and loyalty.” Billie says, “Our employees are an extension of our family and have been such a blessing to have helped make our business what it is.”

American Factory Direct Furniture offers a complimentary in-home design consultation and a 60-day price guarantee. “We have three designers 10

Inside New Orleans

available for appointments. One of our greatest blessings is having two of our three children join the business. Our daughter, Grace Comeaux-Piro, CFO, plays a vital role,” says Billie, “not only administratively and with human resources, but in helping set goals and clarifying our vision for the future. Working together has drawn us closer together as mother and daughter.

“Our son, David Comeaux, COO, is another integral part of the business, handling operation and inventory management. My husband, Robert, is a wonderful merchandiser who insures our prices stay very competitive and is always very involved in the day-to-day business. Our eldest son, Robert III, is a minister in Arizona.” Billie smiles. “He is our prayer warrior.”

Billie is the creative force as the corporate designer. From showroom design to meticulously creating the ambiance of the business, it is her creative touch that guides the process. She says, “Whether advertising layout, floor design or buying, it’s been such a blessing to see how the Lord has used each of our different talents, passions and expertise in different areas of the business to accomplish His perfect plan.

“Business is about relationships and the way

we treat people; about giving without expecting anything in return,” says Billie. “Our business is God’s, and we give Him all the glory for what He has done. Supporting local charities, such as Habitat for Humanity, the Samaritan Center and sponsoring local schools, churches and organizations are ways we give back. We always try to respond when a need is presented.”

American Factory Direct Furniture is very excited to announce it will be opening its newest location on I-12 in Covington in November 2017.

“Commit your works unto the Lord and your thoughts will be established.” Proverbs 16:3.

“For I know the plans I have for you, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11.

American Factory Direct Furniture has locations in Mandeville, Baton Rouge, Covington and Long Beach, MS. 985-871-0300. afd-furniture.com.

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B U S I N E S S

Left to right: Coleena Zimet, Rachel West, Meredith Garrett, Terry Olivier and Courtney Jenkins

The Women of NOLA Lending, - A Division of Fidelity Bank “With almost 300 local women employed

are here for the long haul. When your goals are

mortgages all day long, the synergy between

by NOLA Lending and Fidelity Bank combined, it

long term you act and behave differently, and I

Fidelity Bank and NOLA Lending has allowed

is not lost on anybody that much of our success is

appreciate that ‘Here For Good’ also means we do

NOLA Lending to serve even more people and

due to the experienced and exceptional women on

good in the community and give so much back.”

give more back to the community.

our team,” says Richard LaNasa, President of NOLA

With 26 mortgage offices spread across

Community is extremely important to the

Lending, a division of Fidelity Bank. “That saying

Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, Texas and Alabama

people at NOLA Lending and Fidelity Bank—it

‘If you want something done, ask a busy woman’

and 18 Bank branches, you do not have to go far

is one of their core values. You will find NOLA

rings true in our line of business.”

to find a NOLA Lending office. As a local leader in

Lending and Fidelity Bank representatives at

the mortgage finance industry, its lenders closed

numerous nonprofit events serving up delicious

in Mandeville. Co-founded by Richard LaNasa, the

almost $1 billion in loans last year. Alton McRee,

food with their well-known and often-requested

original founding team of three included Anne

CEO of Fidelity Bank explains, “Women play a

grilling rig. Not only will they bring delicious food

Stirratt Elston, now Vice President of Operations.

critical role in all levels of our organization. I’m

and drinks, but they will be sporting their special

The mission was clear: make the loan process

proud that we have entry level positions, lenders,

#NOLAHATITUDE. Their branded hat has become

simple, easy and fast, and deliver world-class client

senior management and even the highest level

so popular in local circles that team members are

service.

of our organization—Chairman of the Board—filled

often asked if they will sell their hat!

NOLA Lending opened its doors 15 years ago

Today, the women of NOLA Lending

by strong, capable women. Our Chairman, Katie

understand the real estate business and take pride

Crosby, makes sure opportunities abound for

in what they do each and every day. When asked

advancement in our Fidelity Family.”

why working at NOLA Lending is so special, Vice

NOLA Lending operates as the mortgage

President of Operations Anne Elston says, “I know

division of Fidelity Bank, a local bank with a

that what we all do here matters and that we are

rich heritage of over 100 years of service to the

helping build the community, one loan and one

community. This means that unlike many of its

Pontchartrain Blvd., Lakeview; 321 St. Charles

home at a time. Our mission is HERE FOR GOOD.

competitors, NOLA Lending can offer a full array

Ave., Downtown; 7820 Maple St., Uptown; 3197

In my career, I’ve seen mortgage companies come

of financial service products designed to meet the

Richland Ave., Metairie; and 1601 Belle Chasse

and go, but NOLA Lending and Fidelity Bank

needs of clients. While its lenders still work with

Find the Women of NOLA Lending Group at: 6050

Hwy., Westbank or visit nolalending.com.

Women IN Business 11

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While working at a golf tournament together, Becky Gustafson and her

B U S I N E S S

their businesses. Monthly meeting topics vary to meet the needs of the diverse

friend Dorothy Tarver shared their frustration over the lack of opportunities for

membership, which spans across all industries and tenure. POW’s Think Tank-style

women to come together to have well-designed strategic dialogue around their

setting allows women to draw upon each member’s vast breadth of expertise and

businesses. They wondered if this lack of support for high-achieving professional

ideas to solve real-world problems faced by all women in business.

business women to share ideas, advice and resources was hurting the landscape

Along with its monthly meetings, Power of Women holds socials and an

of female entrepreneurship in the Greater New Orleans area. Were they the only

annual Mothers In Business Luncheon. In January 2017, POW held its first Power

ones who noticed this gap? Becky started reaching out to some of the top female

Of Women: Visualize in Every Way (POW VIEW) workshop, which included Melissa

business owners and industry leaders, and she realized they were not alone.

Greenwell, executive VP and COO for national retailer The Finish Line, Inc. and

Out of that desire for a purposeful, relevant and interesting option for the business women of the community, the Power of Women, POW, was born.

author of Money on the Table: How to Increase Profits Through Gender-Balanced Leadership. In September, POW will have its first retreat, Power of Women:

Founded in January 2015, the Power of Women’s mission is to bring

Women of Worth (POW WOW). These events each serve a unique aspect of the

women in business together in a trusting and comfortable environment to share

POW mission by focusing on building a strong community of powerful women,

ideas, experiences and best practices in order to empower each other for their

celebrating achievements and working to create a clear vision and business plan

businesses to grow. The members do this through monthly invite-only exclusive

for each member to maximize her efforts and growth in her business.

closed group meetings, socials, and by building a network they can go to for advice, support and connections.

An interesting study by American Express Open in its 2015 “State of

As Becky, who is POW’s president, reflects back on the over two years of the organization, she says “There is great power in knowledge, community and support. We help each other endure the feeling of ‘doing it all on your own.’

Women-Owned Business Report,” said that women-owned firms account for 31

Many members have seen extreme growth in their business since becoming part

percent of all enterprises (when large publicly traded firms are excluded). Despite

of the organization. It has been an incredible honor and experience to build so

this fact, women-owned firms contribute only 12 percent of the revenue. While

many close relationships with these brilliant, dynamic and driven women.” Read

many factors, such as industry type and personal choices like family life balance,

about some of these vibrant and powerful women in the following two pages.

may contribute to these statistics, this is still a large gap to fill. What makes Power of Women so effective is that it brings together women business owners and industry leaders who serve as each other’s board of directors to strategically grow 12

Inside New Orleans

New members are voted in on a six-month basis.

Visit powerofwomen.org to learn more.

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Donna Accardo

B U S I N E S S

Liz Ackal Donna, of Inner Design, is a facilitator for

Liz Ackal Liz regards herself as a matchmaker as

The Way of the Heart, an organization dedicated

much as a real estate professional for Latter & Blum,

to supporting life purpose. She offers sessions

where she is a million-dollar producer. Her unique

and trainings to use energetic tools that

capabilities and years of experience in interior decor

empower individuals to create the lives that

give her an edge when assisting residential and

they most desire. NOLAInnerDesign.com.

commercial clients. She efficiently interprets clients’ needs and visions into reality. latterblum.com .

Amanda Aguillard

Casey Blasiar, LCSW

Amanda started Aguillard Accounting, LLC, in

Casey is CEO of Neutral Ground Therapy,

2012; she is committed to running a cloud-based

LLC, which helps parents who want exceptional

practice from anywhere. A Xero Gold Partner, she

education for their child but are facing

owns a Xero training company. While she holds

difficulties. Over 10 years of experience with

a masters degree in taxation, she would much

learning challenges has taught Casey: “Different

rather craft and implement ecosystems for small

learners with the right tools will change the

businesses. aguillardaccounting.com.

world.” neutralgroundtherapy.com.

Amy Borrell

Sarah Covert As NolaBloom owner, Amy is responsible for “Growing the Landscape of New Orleans Entrepreneurship.” With over 20 years of HR experience with Fortune 500 companies, Amy helps companies through strategic consulting surrounding culture definition, transition management, process streamlining, employee engagement and leadership coaching. nolabloom.com.

Sheila Craft

Sarah is the owner of Sarah’s Pet Care Revolution, a professional team of thoughtful, kind pet experts who make life easier for pets and their people by providing at-home pet sitting, dog walking, training and socialization.

She is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10kSB program. sarahspetcarerevolution.com.

Melissa Daigrepont, J.D., LL.M., MBA Sheila is celebrating her 20th year in

As a Business Banker for Capital One Bank,

business as owner/partner of Filelink. Sheila

Melissa applies her diverse background to

credits her success to building trusted

advise a large portfolio of successful businesses

relationships and exceeding expectations. She

on banking and financial matters. Her expertise

and her business partner enjoy finding ways to

in law, business development and international

give back to the community. filelinknola.com.

trade provide a creative approach to problem solving for her customers. capitalone.com.

Rebecca M. Gustafson,

Emily Dodart

CFP®, CLTC, LUTCF, CLU®, ChFC®, RICP®, CASL® Emily, Executive Director of The Divorce

Becky, a Financial Advisor with Northwestern

Resource Center for Women, helps women

Mutual Wealth Management Company, has over

navigate the complex divorce process—where to

a decade of experience helping her clients’

start, goal setting, budgeting, emotional assistance,

businesses and families accomplish their

understanding options, finding appropriate

financial dreams in a complex and unpredictable

attorneys and other professional resources, and

world. She is passionate about motivating

social support. thedrcforwomen.com.

people to reach their vision. nmfn.com.

Women IN Business 13

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Amy Landry, SHRM-CP

B U S I N E S S

Maria Toups Landry

Passionate about improving others’ lives, Amy is

Maria is the President/Owner of Fleur-de-lis

the owner of Fuel Success Academy, LLC, specializing

Insurance, LLC. She has served the needs of

in corporate team building and workforce

the New Orleans metro area as an insurance

development. She serves on the American Business

broker since 2005. Her areas of expertise

Women Association’s board and is a driving force

include Employee Benefits, Health Insurance,

behind the creation of two non-profits, COP NOLA

Medicare, Disability Income, Life and Long Term

and Juno Work Balance. fuelsuccessacademy.com.

Care Insurance. fleurdelisinsurancellc.com.

Jessica LeBlanc, CPA, CFF, MBA

Sandra Lindquist

Jessica owns and operates CPA Realty, LLC,

Sandra, VP/COO for the New Orleans Chamber,

a real estate brokerage company, and Jessica

has 25 years of experience in economic and

D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC, a CPA Consulting Firm.

community development in the New Orleans region.

Jessica is an experienced real estate broker/

Throughout her career, Sandra’s passion has been

agent and a certified public accountant for

cultivating business networking opportunities. She

all of your real estate and accounting needs.

has served on various boards and committees to

cparealty.com.

improve the community. neworleanschamber.org.

Kimberely Lobert

Tina Meilleur, CPA, MBA Kimberly’s passion is helping women

As a leadership and business mentor, Tina helps

create confidence to realize the best version of

successful women create time and space to include

themselves through fitness. Pole Perfect Fitness

the people and activities that can improve and

is a studio in The Shops at Canal Place that

re-energize their life or business. She is a best-selling

provides fun classes for bachelorette parties

author, speaker, executive coach, small-business

and team building, weekly group exercise and

consultant and founder of the online Academy for

individuals. poleperfectfitness.com.

Business Success. designyoursuccess.com.

Patricia E. Pannell, J.D.

Kya R. Robottom, MD

Patti co-founded Gotcha Covered HR in 2014

Kya is CEO of Ideal Health New Orleans,

to provide smaller companies an affordable

where the focus is wellness. After graduating

way to have an experienced HR professional

from Dominican High School, she attended

on staff. Her firm provides consulting on

school in Atlanta and Nashville. In Chicago, she

issues such as legal compliance, training, and

completed an OB/GYN residency, practicing there

policy development. gotchacoveredhr.com.

for several years before returning to New Orleans. idealhealthneworleans.com.

Amanda Weir

14

Inside New Orleans

Christine Zichichi In 2016, Weir Environmental was acquired

Christine is Owner/Partner of Olympus Insurance

by NV5, a global publicly traded environmental

Agency, an independent agency in Lakeview, New

and engineering firm. Amanda now serves as

Orleans. With many years of experience, she is able

Vice President of NV5’s environmental division

to accurately assess her clients’ insurance needs.

and manages the Gulf Coast office. She also

She provides exquisite service while cultivating the

owns and operates an organic farm and retreat

best carrier and coverage options for all different

center in Lumberton, Mississippi. nv5.com.

types of insurance risks. olympusinsurance.com.

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Beth DePass

Since launching in 2014, transition has been the mindset of Beth

B U S I N E S S

company to accommodate their rapid growth. “We are so fortunate to have

DePass’ clothing line of luxury ready-to-wear ladies apparel. While

assembled an incredible team, from our amazing production manager, to

rooted in Beth’s love for golf, the pieces are comfortable yet stylish

our factory, textile artist and reps.” Being manufactured in the USA remains

enough for travel, errands or lunch. The women’s golf and lifestyle

very important to this rapidly expanding brand.

collection, formally known as “Kevan Hall Sport”, is now transitioning to “Beth DePass”.

“With the transition to a new name, we also are adding more

Beth’s third collection as Creative and Design Director will arrive in July, with the full launch of Beth DePass labels and hangtags to debut at the PGA Merchandise Show in January 2018. Beth says that the decision to

silhouettes and fabrics that you can wear anytime and anywhere,”

launch her own clothing line was, “one of the least-thought-out decisions”

says Beth. “We’re thrilled to release the new lifestyle and travel pieces

she has ever made, but several aspects of her life came together to help

that, together with our golf line, will be made in what I like to call

her reach it, including being encouraged from a very young age. “I think

‘performance fabric 2.0.’ The cutting edge, easy-care properties of these

my family forgot to tell me that there was something I couldn’t do,” she

fabrics make them beautiful to see and feel and very comfortable to

laughs. “They always believed in me.”

wear.”

In three years, Beth has been able to gain the attention of some of the most influential people in cutting edge fabric and design. “It has been great being able to put my head together with legends in the industry!” The brand is carried in the most prestigious boutiques, country clubs and golf retailers across the country, and even abroad.

Beth and her business partner and dear friend since their days at St. Martin’s, Cheryl Simon, have expanded their Los Angeles based

Email info@kevanhallsport.com for more information.

Women IN Business 15

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Team Saint Anthony’s Gardens “We have a ‘yes’ mentality,” says Kit Friedrichs-Baumann, Director of

bring in musical groups and performances for our new Trinity Theater and the

Marketing and Sales for St. Anthony’s Gardens in Covington. “If a resident

residents have formed a gardening club and a book club,” says Baumann.

wants something to make their life more comfortable or for St. Anthony’s to feel

“There’s happy hour in our Vineyard Lounge and our wellness center includes a

more like home, our motto is ‘Yes is the answer. What is the question?’”

senior adapted gym and fitness centers with outpatient rehabilitation services

A new ministry of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, St. Anthony’s Gardens is a vibrant, active community consisting of 213 independent, assisted living and memory care apartments. Baumann notes that moving into a senior

that includes physical and occupational therapy. We even have a massage therapy studio.”

Residents enjoy outings to concerts, museums, and local restaurants.

living community like St. Anthony’s offers seniors a new lease on life; a second

Transportation is provided to doctor’s appointments and other churches, if

retirement where they’re freed from the worries of home maintenance and

they wish. Gourmet cuisine with restaurant-style service is available for three

domestic chores such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry; and where they’re free

meals a day, or residents may opt to cook in their own fully-equipped kitchens.

to socialize and enjoy a lively, fully engaged life with like-minded peers.

“We have on-site nursing care available 24/7,” says Baumann. “All housework,

Joining Baumann in this dynamic ministry are Residency Counselor Julie Portmann; Move-in Coordinator Brenda Jacobi; Director of Life Enrichment Lisa

maintenance, and laundry is included in one monthly fee. But beyond all of that is our commitment to ‘YES!’”

Ray; Director of Health Services Kathy LoCicero, RN, BSN, eMBA; and Business Office Manager Iris Blundell.

“We offer independent living, assisted living, and memory care,” says Baumann. “A resident may enter at any level. We offer a choice of floor plans and amenities such as an on-site prayer and meditation chapel, a library, art studio, a full-service upscale salon and beautiful grounds with a pond and walking trails. Although we are open to all faiths, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church is right next door.”

St. Anthony’s residents stay busy with group activities and outings. “We 16

Inside New Orleans

St. Anthony’s Gardens is located next to Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church at 601 Holy Trinity Drive in Covington. 985-605-5950. StAnthonysGardens.org.

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B U S I N E S S

Katie Peralta and Rachel Jones

Triton Stone Group is a family business in every sense of the word, with siblings,

spouses, cousins, aunts and in-laws all finding a niche within the business. “My dad is an entrepreneur and has run his own trucking company for years,” says Katie Peralta.

“As he watched his seven kids grow up, he started looking for a way to keep us in this area.” He bought a Triton Stone franchise and set Katie up to run it. Before long, younger sister Rachel Jones graduated and joined her in time to help with the city’s rebuild after Katrina.

As more siblings were ready to come onboard, the family opened other locations, nine in ten years. Soon, some of their spouses were working in the company as well. “We’ve been blessed to be able to find jobs that fit each of our personalities,” says Jones. “Our mom laid down the law early on. She said if the business created problems within the family, she’d come in and pull the plug on the whole operation,” she laughs.

Firm believers in promoting from within, the family rewarded employees who showed initiative by sending them to run new locations as they opened in other states.

Triton Stone today is one of the largest importers of natural stone and other building products in the country, with 14 locations and a distribution yard. It also carries a large line of kitchen and bath fixtures and tile and assists customers with commercial or residential projects.

In January, the family bought out the Triton franchise brand, acquiring five additional stores throughout the Southeast. “Now when our kids do projects for school about what they want to be when they grow up, they say they want to work for Triton,” says Jones.

“I guess we’ve learned to separate work and family,” says Peralta. “Everyone understands their role and does their job. It helps that we love and respect each other and that we’ve been blessed with amazing employees who’ve become like family, too.

It really doesn’t feel like work at all.”

Peggy Rodriguez Celebrating the 10th anniversary of everyBody wellness, Peggy Rodriguez continues to help clients meet their weight loss goals through commitment to healthy lifestyle changes.

“Making permanent life changes is never easy but it is completely possible,” says Peggy. “I believe that you can change anything that you choose to change through structure, self-control and self-discipline. With the structure provided by the Ideal Protein Weightloss Method and daily and weekly coaching that we give our clients, healthy lifestyles emerge.”

Ideal Protein is a physician-designed protocol to help clients not only lose the weight but also maintain their weight loss. As a registered nurse and product of Ideal Protein weight loss, Peggy firmly believes in its dependable, repeatable and predictable nature. “Ideal Protein was inspired by the alarming rate of obesity—and it works. I did it myself. Clients relate to me because I understand the struggles of what they are going through. I was a prime example—I thought I was eating healthy and exercising, but I was just adding pounds.”

Peggy and the other coaches and dieticians on her team have all used Ideal Protein. Now, working one-on-one, they personally guide clients through the protocol and help them incorporate the program into real life long-term. Peggy says, “I love to see people catapult in their careers or in their personal lives. When they shed the weight, they bloom.”

Triton’s head office is located at 6131 River Rd. in Harahan.

(504) 738-2228. 2090 Woodrow St. Suite A, Mandeville. (985) 951-2360

everyBody wellness is located at 2901 Ridgelake Dr. in Metairie

Mandeville location by appointment only. TritonStone.com.

and 8216 Oak St. in New Orleans. 287-8558.

Women IN Business 17

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Mandy Schexnaydre Wienhusen “Seeing a bride’s face when she has found the dress gives you a small glimpse into her heart and her love story,” smiles Mandy Schexnaydre Wienhusen. “It’s my absolute favorite part of the business.”

As owner and operator of Town & Country, Mandy enjoys helping brides find the perfect dress. “We give every bride our full attention, exploring and building on her personal aesthetic to find the most perfect dress for her silhouette, style and wedding location.” The calming, easy experience at Town & Country has been even more improved with a fresh renovation.

In September 2016, Mandy purchased the century-year-old business.

“The Garden District space, while beautiful before, has been modernized to a more light-filled, romantic atmosphere,” Mandy says. “Rather than a singleopen space, we have separate areas for brides to enjoy a genuinely personal experience with her loved ones.”

From bold and robust silhouettes to simple, clean-lined dresses, Town & Country offers a hand-selected, curated mix of wedding dresses that meet every taste and budget. “We truly have something for everyone, with dresses ranging from $800 to $10,000. Within every dress, you will find a marriage of artistic imagination and craftsmanship. Above all, our dresses exude a sense of elegance and love designed especially for your big day.” Designers include BERTA Bridal, Badgley Mischka, Hayley Paige and Pronovias, among many others. Town & Country also has a thoughtful selection of gowns for bridesmaids, flower girls, mothers of the bride and groom and debutantes.

When not in the midst of wedding season, Mandy enjoys spending time

B U S I N E S S

Donna Shay

Donna Shay never thought that her college job on the Steamboat

NATCHEZ would have led to her soon-to-be-twenty-year career at Café Beignet.

“I worked on the NATCHEZ during college before moving to New York for a few years,” says Donna, General Manager of Café Beignet. “When I returned to New Orleans, I happened to run into Gordon Stevens, who invited me to their coffee shop on Royal Street—I’ve been here ever since.”

Café Beignet has grown to three French Quarter locations since then, the newest opening before Mardi Gras this year on Decatur Street. “I’m able to walk from location to location. I love that I walk the same path everyday, but there’s always something different to see! It’s continually exciting and fresh.” Also fresh is each beignet ordered at Café Beignet.

“Our beignets are rolled out and fried as soon as you order them,” Donna smiles. “There are no machines involved.” Café Beignet also offers breakfast and lunch from open to close, allowing visitors and locals to eat whatever they fancy, whether morning or night. “It works better that way. If someone getting off a plane wants breakfast in the afternoon, they can. If someone wants gumbo for breakfast, they can.”

Sandwiches, breakfast and Cajun fare are not the only things served at Café Beignet. Jazz music is always to be heard at the outdoor courtyard and patio bar on Bourbon Street inside Musical Legends Park; that location is committed to preserving New Orleans musical culture, one legend at a time.

When not enjoying the jazz and powder sugar-filled air, Donna relaxes in the outdoors by gardening and also fishing with her husband in Grand Isle.

with her husband, Freddie, and their 2-year-old son, Cruz.

18

Town & Country is located at 1514 St. Charles Ave. 523-7027.

Café Beignet has locations at 311 Bourbon St., 334 Royal St.

townandcountrybridal.com.

and 600 Decatur St. cafebeignet.com.

Inside New Orleans

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B U S I N E S S

Sr. Melanie A. Guste, RSCJ Headmistress Biba Islah

Eighth-generation New Orleanian and descendent of King Louis Philippe of France, Biba Islah always knew what she would do when she grew up. She recalls, “When I was 5 or 6 years old, I would play with hair and makeup or read fashion magazines.”

When Islah was 11, a cousin taught her how to cut an A-line bob. Islah started trimming family and friends’ hair and became known as the “Hair Cutter.” After attending the John Jay Beauty School, she began her career freelancing and then working at the Guerlain Spa and the Spa at the Windsor Court.

In 2014, after a stretch as a personal hairstylist for a celebrity, Islah opened her eponymous shop, a sophisticated Rene Furterer-partnered salon in the Warehouse District. Biba Isla Salon offers personalized hair and makeup services in a luxurious spalike environment. Islah says, “My mission is to treat everyone with the greatest amount of professionalism, attention and care I can provide.”

A married mother of three grown boys and a 15-year-old daughter, Islah says, “Working for a celebrity was very time consuming and hard on my family, especially the travel. I am so happy to have a place to do what I love, serving others by making them look and feel amazing!”

It’s no surprise that Islah is in the beauty business—her ancestors were hairstylists in New Orleans in the 1800s, creating hair tonics, skin remedies and medicines with all-natural ingredients. Islah has created her own lines: Biba Isla Matte lipstick; Biba Balm lip balm; and custom hair treatments.

In addition to her salon, Islah works on movies and editorial and fashion projects, including New York Fashion Week, Miami Fashion Week and Vogue and Elle magazines.

“The Academy of the Sacred Heart is more than a school—it’s a vibrant community of culture and learning which inspires in each child true character, courage and faith-filled confidence,” says Headmistress Sr. Melanie A. Guste, RSCJ, a Religious of the Sacred Heart who holds a Ph.D. in Human and Organizational Systems and M.S. degrees in Educational Administration and Applied Spirituality.

An alumna of the school, she is no stranger to it. She and her five sisters attended the school for 14 years—from pre-K through twelfth grade. Sr. Guste fondly recalls her parents joking about their combined 84 years of stewardship as parents and volunteers.

Sr. Guste became the Headmistress in 2014 following service on the national team of her religious order. In these three academic years, the school has had a laser focus on academic rigor and innovation across curriculum.

Recently, the school launched a major renovation on the Rosary campus, a wing devoted to STREAM curriculum. This space will connect an Innovation Lab, a Makerspace, an outdoor courtyard, a Science wing and a Performance Arts center in “a beautiful new pedagogy of space so essential to global learning,” says Sr. Guste.

Founded in 1867, the Rosary is part of an international network of 150 Sacred Heart schools in 41 countries. “From global citizenship to digital citizenship, students at Sacred Heart are on a journey of the heart, mind, body and spirit—growing each day to become leaders of tomorrow.”

To book an appointment go to bibaisla.com. All appointments are reserved

Academy of the Sacred Heart is located at 4521 St. Charles Ave.,

online. Biba Isla Boutique Salon is at 322 Lafayette St. 810-6184.

504-891-1943, ashrosary.org.

Women IN Business 19

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B U S I N E S S

Violet Peters Tourism is a vital business in Jefferson Parish generating over $1.1 billion in visitor spending. Since 2000, the Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. (JCVB) has been creating marketing synergy with the now 71 hotels, 8,500 hotel rooms and 10,000 industry employees. The JCVB is the official destination-marketing organization for Jefferson Parish. President and CEO Violet Peters has been the force behind the JCVB since 2002.

Violet has been successful in partnering with the hotel industry in creating a permanent funding source in 2004 and in increasing the bureau’s operating budget through the establishment of the Tourism Support Assessment in 2016. Under her leadership, the bureau received international accreditation through the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program of Destination Marketing Association International.

Violet has led the process of changing the destination landscape by implementing initiatives such as the Louisiana Oyster Trail, Family Gras and Destination Host seminars.

A founding member and past Chair of the Louisiana Tourism Coastal Coalition, Violet is a member of Louisiana Travel Promotion Association, the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Louisiana Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus, Southeast Tourism Society, Destination Marketing Association International and the Greater New Orleans Hotel & Lodging Association. She is also a past board member of the Kenner Professional Women’s Association, now the Kenner Professional Business Association, and past member of JEDCO’s Jefferson Edge Task Force and past board member of the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce.

Violet has been in the hospitality industry since 1990, starting her career at Hotard Coaches and Tours by Andrea. She moved to hotel sales in 1994 at The Pontchartrain Hotel in the Garden District. In 1996, she began selling Jefferson Parish in hotels. In 2016, Violet achieved the status of Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME). She is the first female President and CEO of the bureau.

The Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. is located at 1221 Elmwood Park Blvd., Ste. 411, in Harahan. 731-7083. visitjeffersonparish.com.

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Inside New Orleans

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Wendy Dolan and Serah Ridolfo “Get Online NOLA was born out of the need for small businesses and nonprofits

to have high-quality, but reasonably priced websites and marketing,” says President

and Founder Wendy Dolan. “We take pride in building high quality products that can grow with our clients, and adapt as technology changes.”

Wendy’s day-to-day involves meeting with clients. “It’s a lot of fun and always

changing. I love working with small-business owners who are passionate about what

they do.” Before moving home to New Orleans and founding Get Online NOLA, Wendy earned a degree in fine art and spent ten years traveling—and learning—in Boston,

London, France and Los Angeles. She is board president of New Orleans Women in

Technology, a charter member of the American Business Women’s Association, and a

B U S I N E S S

Merry Sorrells Head of School In today’s world, college prep is no longer enough. “Preparation for college is important, but it is also a basic expectation,” says St. Martin’s Episcopal School’s Head of School Merry Sorrells. “Parents and students are looking for an education that will develop the whole person and prepare students for life beyond college. Employers seek applicants with skills and mindsets such as problem-solving, adaptability, empathy, and collaboration.”

That discovery is what led Sorrells and St. Martin’s to develop the school’s Innovation + Design program—the first of its kind in the region—in 2013. Students

New Orleans Chamber member.

solve real-world problems through projects integrated into their classes.

small businesses develop their brands to create a strong online presence. To further

says Sorrells. “The beauty of our Innovation + Design program is our students know

Wendy has worked with clients such as Nike and Dr. Pepper, but prefers helping

empower clients, Wendy and Get Online NOLA’s Operations Manager, Serah Ridolfo, host monthly workshops to help business owners make the most of the internet.

“I love all of the many hats I wear here, especially working with our clients to

build their website and teach them to use WordPress. It’s exciting to see their business expand because of the work we do together,” says Serah.

“Serah has been instrumental in establishing processes that allow us to continue

growing,” says Wendy. “She is fantastic with clients, but also has a great marketing mindset.” Serah studied marketing at UNO and has recently accepted a volunteer

position as VP of Technology for the American Marketing Association New Orleans Chapter.

Wendy and Serah both enjoy spending time outside. Wendy and her husband

(and business partner), Jeremy, have a son and daughter who love camping and

canoeing. Serah is the mother of two daughters who share her love for the outdoors.

Get Online NOLA is located at 5534 Canal Blvd., Ste. 5. 482-1096. getonlineNOLA.com.

“At St. Martin’s we believe learning is not just about thinking, but about doing,” that they are learning and creating in ways that have positive impact beyond the walls of a classroom.”

In January, Sorrells was excited to celebrate a new milestone in the school’s flourishing program—the grand opening of The Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design. The 4,900-square-foot facility houses state-of-the-art equipment in seven unique spaces—an idea lab, digital lab, woodshop, build shop, production studio, and two flexible classroom/community partnership workspaces. The facility is accessible to all grade levels and classes. Each of the spaces within the center is designed to help students work together and connect lessons from the classroom to real life situations.

For Sorrells, that connection is paramount. “We don’t ever want our students to ask how they will use what they’re learning in the real world,” says Sorrells. “Our curriculum is designed to have our students apply what they are learning while they are learning it. Through this approach, the learning is deep and meaningful.”

St. Martin’s Episcopal School is located at 225 Green Acres Road in Metairie. 733-0353. stmsaints.com Women IN Business 21

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Tatum Gardner

Any grown woman knows the backbone of a wardrobe is a little black dress.

However, many young girls may be unaware of this fashion gospel unless or

until they read Tatum Gardner’s book, My First Little Black Dress. Not only is this a

dedication to Gardner’s two girls, Kinley Gretchen, 10, and Emmy Elizabeth, 9, but it also pays homage to the LBD for the 10-and- under set.

Explaining the evolution of the book, Gardner says, “My daughters loved to

play in my closet, and I would tell them they’re never too young to understand the importance of a little black dress.”

Gardner was born and raised in Gretna and has never ventured far from

home. She attended St. Cletus Elementary, Immaculata High School and Holy

Cross College. Before she wrote My First Little Black Dress, the dynamic Gardner was fully occupied, alongside her husband, Donnie Gardner with running his

family’s company, Triple G Steel. And, with the book’s release in October 2016,

book signings add to her hectic schedule. “So, with the business, my kids and now the book, my life is hectic, but I love every minute.” Tatum is now making dresses

to accompany each book, which will be available this summer in stores and online.

Gardner is already at work on her next book, My First Seersucker Suit, which

is dedicated to her son, Landry Dean, who is 5. “The girls always want to dress up,

but my son is a different story. He stays in his Superman costume all day long. If it isn’t elastic, he doesn’t want to wear it!”

So, which little black dress in Gardner’s closet is her favorite? “My go-to

dress is a Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress. It fits you no matter what. You can be having an off day, and it still looks good. It’s a classic.”

My First Little Black Dress, by Tatum Gardner, info@myfirstlittleblackdress.net, 222 Publications. 427-2472 22

Inside New Orleans

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Heather Calder

For 15 years, Heather Calder has been immersed in the real estate industry.

At 21 years old, she received her real estate sales license and began working as an administrative assistant in a thriving real estate firm. “I had no sales experience, but needed a job,” Heather grins. “Little did I know that I would fall into the real estate

Lauren Prats

Lauren Prats knows the value of a well-groomed brow. That is why Hi-Brow Beauty Bar has bloomed into a thriving, 100 percent locally–owned esthetic business in just three years. Lauren’s passion for Esthiology ignited after graduating from the Aveda Institute over 12 years ago.

“After perfecting the art of brow-shaping, I carefully hired an amazing team to help offer more services to clients,” says Lauren. “My second passion is customer service. With a great team, we are able to further improve the experience.”

Lauren is always thinking of innovative ways to better perform Hi-Brow services, which include: brow waxing and maintenance, microblading, lash extensions, dermaplane, chemical peels and head-to-toe waxing. Lauren also offers her own line of cosmetic products including brow pens, mascaras, balms, clear gels and highlighters.

The newest addition to her line is LipMix. She says, “LipMix is designed for you to create your very own custom lipstick or lipgloss shade. If you can dream of the perfect lip color, LipMix can create it!” The Hi-Brow team educates women on how to apply Hi-Brow Cosmetics and LipMix before heading out to conquer the day.

Lauren’s busy day is also filled with being a wife and a mother to their 4-year-old and 6-year-old boys. “I love my hectic life! My boys are the perfect balance to this very girly world I live in. I sometimes leave work in my heels to head straight to the T-ball field. Without the support of my family and my experienced team that shares the same passion, Hi-Brow wouldn’t be what it is today.”

groove immediately.”

“I come from a love of numbers, so I slowly leaned toward the investment side of real estate, which led to listing and closing hundreds of investment-style properties. I eventually landed in the development side of real estate.”

In 2006, at 27 years old, Heather started her own brokerage. “As time went on, I decided I wanted to form a team of Realtors who had the same mindset as mine...driven.” Heather continued building her team, making it possible to rebrand as Realty Group NOLA this year. Her boutique brokerage aims to create an energized way of working for local Realtors. She says, “I have been able to create a system for Realtors that works well in our ever-developing real estate industry. The brokerage supports and encourages the growth of each agent. Everyone in our office is successful in more ways than one.”

Heather’s favorite part of owning Realty Group NOLA is being able to feed off the energy that has been created by her team. “Being a business owner has been the toughest part of my life, but also the most rewarding,” Heather smiles. “As I grow, my company grows.”

Hi-Brow Beauty Bar is located at 2007 Metairie Rd. in Metairie. 325-2222.

Visit Realty Group NOLA at 230 Polk St., Ste. A, 312-9768.

hibrownola.com.

realtygroupNOLA.com. forsalebyNOLA.com.

Women IN Business 23

Prayerful Legacy photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

by Angelle Albright

Folk Artist Roland Fournier AS A LITTLE GIRL, I used to sit next to my father for endless hours, awestruck by the motions of his hands chipping away at a block of wood. I was the youngest of six, and most of my siblings had moved on and were already married by the time he carved his first masterpiece. I couldn’t for the life of me understand how my dad, a tough officer of the law and a federal marshall, would possess the delicate hands to turn a block of wood into a work of art. Moreover, I yearned to inherit his infectious passion and patience that could endure hundreds of hours on one single task that was never designated for any particular patron or an ounce of glory.

As much as our dear mother marveled at his >>

Intricate medievalarmored warhorse carved from five species of wood.

Fournier’s most treasured of all the carousel pieces.

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Wagon West scene carved twice by Fournier after the first version burned in the Colorado wildfires.

work, she also chastised him for dusting up his good clothes and tracking wood chips all over the house.

Who could blame her? As soon as he got home from work, he would rush out back to start whittling away without bothering to change clothing. Then he would come inside with wood shavings spilling out of his hair and pants. If I had to sweep it up to keep mom happy, I didn’t care, for I was a little girl in complete awe of her Daddy’s talent.

After 40 years of humbly carving artworks with no thought of recognition, my father, at 88 years young, got to enjoy a moment most artists only receive posthumously. The 14 Stations of the Cross that he felt led to carve after Hurricane Katrina for no particular purpose are now prominently displayed in the quiet little chapel of St. Anthony’s Garden in Covington, the newest senior living ministry of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and

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ironically, just minutes from my home. The plaque bearing his name, Roland Fournier, was a great honor for our family because we all knew they were honoring the heart of a man who truly deserved admiration and recognition that we thought would only come from those of us who love him. It was a dream come true for a humble, loving, spiritual man, whose only motive was to share his Godgiven gifts so that others may be touched and changed by them.

My father says he acquired an early love of curvature, design and shapes as a young boy, building models of World War II aircraft that the government would mail to children to assemble so that pilots could be better equipped to identify enemy aircrafts by form.

That experience stayed with him his whole life until he was in his fifties and became awed by a rubber Mallard duck decoy that my brother-in-law, Pascal McGoey, used to

photos: ANGELLE ALBRIGHT

go hunting. In awe of its design, my dad said, “I think I could make one of these out of wood.” Within a day, he had chopped a block of wood and started whittling away at it. Once he finished the duck and was praised for the way he captured the delicate feathers, we could all tell he was hooked.

I feel like I did that with great accuracy. It was the first time I felt proud of my work.”

It was always hard to identify what drove my father to choose his subjects. He was a brilliant man.

He knew every fact about everything historical,

With his first of scores of grandchildren arriving soon, he announced his idea. His childhood marked the golden age of carousels, so it was only natural that he would choose to recapture that majesty in his work. He says, “I carved that mallard, so I thought why can’t I increase the size and make it ridable, just like the carousels? I started doing it on a 7⁄8 scale or 3⁄4 size of an actual animal. With a power saw, I could cut out the basic form, and I started acquiring all the tools I needed to carve like the masters.”

As all of his children grew older, we would chip in and send our parents on trips to Europe.

My dad says, “I had tools that I bought in Paris, Switzerland, Italy and Germany. Mamma knows wherever we’d go, I’d make her go tool shopping. If they had it, I wanted it. Tools that I ordered out of books—some of the finest chisels, with every curve imaginable. I learned to sharpen them on a stone I had; I could take a chisel with varying degrees of curves and I could carve anything. I could make any cut I wanted. I wound up with tools second to none.

In the end, I made over 20 lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants—every animal you could imagine. Then, when I found that one of my Bengal tigers went for $5,000 at an auction for charity, I realized that I was creating something people admired. I started doing

whether it be politics, wars, art, music. He was an avid reader, then a story teller; he loved sharing tales about his childhood, his grandparents’ home on Napoleon Avenue and then the depression. He often shared how things got tough right around the time he was born, and I think that shaped the man he would become. His parents were extremely poor. He would explain it as no running water, no inside bathroom, no heating. Times were tough, but as a track star at Holy Cross, he found solace in his own abilities. He broke all kinds of records, but in later years, as my sons were being recruited by universities for the same sport, he started to share more painful memories— like when he had to say no to recruiters because he had to go to work. His mother was ill, and times were hard.

He met my mother, married, enlisted in the Air Force and was sent to England after their first born arrived. My mom bravely sailed the Atlantic with my sister to join him and had

sea life after we came back from Hawaii. I wanted to do a whale after I saw one in person, and I got a photograph of a real good whale carrying its baby;

their second child over there before returning home. The family rounded out at six

Holy Cross track star, 1948.

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children. Dad joined the New Orleans Police Department, where he would serve for over 19 years before becoming a United States Marshall. Although he never made it to formal college, he did acquire a lot of hours taking classes over his lifetime, probably enough to earn a degree, but I think it always bothered him that he missed out on that part of his life. I never thought anything of it growing up, because to me he was a genius. We never knew that we went without, because he provided everything we needed, and that was enough. His tenacity and obsession with carving after working all day taught me more than if he had a million advanced degrees, because everything he was doing had meaning—some historical meaning behind it.

When my dad, whom we call “Paw Paw,” imagined himself carving a western scene, he hit the library and started copying photos. He came home with these huge enlargements from the copy store and chose a scene that made him salivate when discussing it. It was a family headed west during the depression—straight out of a scene from the Steinbeck novel. He was obsessed by the ox and how it collapsed in the middle of the desert. In trying to see what his motivation was, I asked him why it was so important.

“It’s so realistic. It’s about life. It was about a whole family trying to go thousands of miles in a covered wagon with little children and grandparents, and they are relying on an animal.

When it gets sick and falls with its head in the mud, they are trying to feed him water; it looked like total desperation for this family.” He would go on fervently, “Angelle, that was a piece 94

Inside New Orleans

Roland Fournier and his wife, Patricia Fournier, with Archbishop Gregory Aymond at the dedication of St. Anthony’s Garden in December 2016.

Below: One of two dozen carousel animals painted by Fournier’s granddaughter, Marcelle

photos: ANGELLE ALBRIGHT

McGoey Delaune.

that I felt personally involved in.” I loved him even more when he would describe it that way, because I could sense his passion.

massive wildfires in Colorado, we all knew the covered wagon carving was being reduced to ashes. He simply said, “Well, I

Even though I was only nine or ten, I knew there was something special about this man I called Dad. That special work of art was given to my oldest sister, Shelly, and her husband, Pascal, because it would fit their home in Colorado, and Pas, I think, loved my father’s work even more than I did.

When I told my father I was writing this story, he said, “I want to talk about my work with the historic things that I did, like the covered wagon scene, which I thought was one of the best I ever did.” Looking back on his legacy now, I see that he saw himself in that scene. He saw his life that way. He was a survivor. He was determined to make the world a better place. He didn’t have all the riches in life, but he had his faith—one of the greatest Catholic faiths I’ve ever witnessed. There was nothing that could go wrong that would make him lose or question his faith. It didn’t matter if we were in the bottom of the Grand Canyon, we were making Mass on Sunday. He led by example with his faith, especially in 2002, when, while watching the news covering

guess I get to do it again,” and he did! He searched for many months for the right piece of wood, because he was determined to do it again, and do it even better.

Pas says, “As I saw him aging, I felt we took all of his love and his hard work for granted. I put the second covered wagon scene in my home in Covington. I have >>

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ridable carousel rockers, carved for his first grandchild, Pas McGoey Jr.

photo: ANGELLE ALBRIGHT

Fournier’s first attempt at

it over my mantel, because I want to look at it every day.” He elaborates on my father’s interpretations, saying, “The people in it actually have gravity working on their bodies. I can feel the weight of the people. If you sit there and study it, you can see what those

people went through.”

When my parents lost their home during Hurricane Katrina, everything changed. I was going through cancer, their home was in ruins, and my dad started showing signs of decline. He became severely depressed when he saw the town he grew up in, and kept safe policing for half a century, in ruins. It was too much for this proud septuagenarian to bear. He developed a shuffle in his step, and his hands started to shake non-stop as he caressed his thumb and middle finger incessantly.

The doctors reported early signs of Parkinson’s disease, and all of our minds turned to his carving. How would he ever survive without being able to carve?

He says, “When my health went bad, mamma said that the power jigsaw was too dangerous for me. That was a tough

day in my life, because there was nothing I couldn’t do with that saw.”

Parkinson’s couldn’t stop him. He did do a few pieces by hand until he found a Japanese hand saw that cuts on both sides and realized he could still do a lot of things. He started carving the 20 Mysteries of the Rosary on one piece of wood. It was cruder then his earlier works, because his disease had taken hold of his hands and he was working with a different tool, but it still turned out to be just as special.

In honor of his grandchildren who are alumni, he donated it to St. Paul’s School, where it graces the walls of St. Benilde Hall.

Years later, when he started taking medicines to control his symptoms, he got a little more control over his hands.

It was at this time that he felt the calling to carve the Stations of the Cross—all 14 of them. The Stations are a devotion that

traces Christ’s journey to the crucifixion.

My father explained he was inspired by stories of 17th century Benedictines in Europe who had local folk artists paint the scenes on raggedy canvases and march the around the villages so that the people could better identify with Christ’s passion. It was his belief that the renderings were used to help the illiterate population comprehend and pray better.

So now, nearly 80 years old, he was back in his element with a fresh idea in his heart and in his head. He says, “I didn’t know why I wanted to carve them or what I was going to do with them. I just knew I wanted to do it. I didn’t even know how on earth I would be able to get the high quality wood I needed. I called my cousin Sal, who was retiring from a family-owned lumber business, and asked if they would be able to get >>

me some scraps. Within days, someone called to tell me to bring my truck.

Little did I know that the “scrap” was high-quality mahogany from South America, and they loaded my truck to the brim. It was almost as if it was planned that I would be given this beautiful, fine wood that was so rich looking and perfect for carving.”

When I asked if this work was a higher calling, he exclaimed, “What would you think if you needed expensive wood, and somebody gave you exactly what you needed? I decided it would be the Stations before I started hustling the wood; I just didn’t know the wood would come so conveniently.

I couldn’t wait each day to get started; I didn’t care what the outcome would be of the 14. I didn’t think people really cared. I was gonna give it away to the guy who was building my fence ’cause he liked them.The idea of somebody wanting it was a thrill to me.”

He continued to carve until they were all finished. They sat in a shed for years; it was later, when Holy Cross started rebuilding, that Pascal got the idea to see if they would want them. He says, “The principal of the new state-ofthe-art school loved them, and it was a real thrill that my old school alma mater would get them.” But the rebuilding process was slow and nothing ever came of it. Pascal says he suggested that Paw Paw let his children and grandchildren take the pieces. My father lamented, “After all this time, they should all go together somewhere.” Pas steadfastly pushed on and decided to reach out to the Archdiocese to get an opinion of the quality of the work and whether they thought it had value as artwork.

That led him to email some photos to the director of archives and records at

the Archdiocese, Emilie “Lee” Gagnet Leumas. She says, “They sent me a picture of one, and I reached out to them to see more in person. I thought there is so much of his spirit that comes out in those carvings. They just moved me. They really did.” It was her job to place sacred objects throughout the Archdiocese, so she knew about the project at St. Anthony’s Garden and reached out to Ken Schwartzfager, the development manager, who had already contacted her about acquiring some. After meeting with my father and seeing the works in person, they decided to hang them in the chapel at St. Anthony’s Garden.

“All I can say is it was Divine Providence that it all came together.

It was as though God had allowed someone who could even be a resident at this place, someone with the same faith and values, carve these stations out of love for others who might lay eyes on them,” Leumas recalls. She says, “Your father is such a gentle soul. He was in such awe that we recognized his talent. I can remember him telling me that he didn’t know why he was carving them, that he just needed to get them out of his head. The work just came out of him. He is a very special man—the Grandma Moses of woodworking. I’m thrilled. I just can’t even believe we were able to get these works of art and keep them all together.”

My father was so cute on the day of the dedication. He told anyone who would listen, in a funny voice, “I’ve been married to the same women for 65 years. I never got a plaque. I broke records in high school. I never got a trophy or a plaque. I rode in trucks and airplanes carrying nuclear weapons, and I never got a plaque.

photo: ANGELLE ALBRIGHT

Full bust of an Indian head mounted and framed.

But all of a sudden, at the end of my life, the Archdiocese of New Orleans gives me a plaque.” The plaque does mean a lot to him, because he has been acknowledged for something that he never sought out, and it’s something his family can go look at forever.

Pascal wanted a professional opinion of the quality of my father’s work. He took one of his pieces to the head of the sculpture department at Southeastern, who said it was fine Folk Art, art done by a person without any formal training. Pascal says, “When I told Paw Paw that, he was really happy to hear it, because he never saw himself as an artist.”

Something profound that Pascal told me will stay with me always: “Your dad sat in the back yard in those chairs, and he was out there working for a hundred hours on one piece. We would go out there and talk to him,

and he would pick his head up and talk, but he would look back down.

I would watch him work, and it was with his hands and his mind that he carved these, and every minute, he was in love. When he did those carvings, he was like praying back there. He did that with his whole body, hands and spirit. It was all about his religion. It was like each stroke of his knife was a prayer. When he was working, he was praying. He accomplished that, and now people will be praying over each one of his works forever.”

Pascal closed by saying, “Prayer is very simple. It’s an attempt to communicate with God. His attempt wasn’t verbal; his attempt was physical. He was so deep in prayer as he carved those stations it was if his hands were folded, that’s how prayerful he was. That’s how he communicated with his creator.”

IN Great Taste

by Yvette Jemison

’Cue-Ready Salads

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Charred Corn Salad

Servings: 8-10 It wouldn’t be a barbecue without grilled corn, and this salad is a great summer staple. The bits of charred corn add depth of flavor to this bright and fresh salad. It can be prepped (without the tomatoes) up to a day in advance and is sure to be your most-requested summer side dish.

6 ears of corn, husks and silks removed 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 cup red onion, sliced 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 Tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1. Prepare a hot fire in a grill or preheat a grill pan over high heat. Grill corn, turning occasionally, until charred in spots. Transfer to a platter to cool.

photo: YVETTE JEMISON

WHEN YOU’RE HEATING UP the grill this summer, be sure to enhance your meal with a few seriously delicious side dishes. The star of the show is what’s on the grill, but complete your barbecue with one of these tempting salad recipes. From a made-in-minutes salad to heartier options, these side dishes will keep you serving up ’cue like a pro.

Corn is a summery standout that gets a burst of flavor in our Charred Corn Salad. The quickly charred kernels are tossed with tomatoes, red onions and a south Texas-inspired dressing. The Marinated Cucumber Salad is cool and refreshing, making it perfect for those hot summer barbecues. The German Potato Salad provides a heartier option that gets a boost of flavor from the sweet-and-tangy dressing laden with bacon drippings and perfectly blended with the tartness of vinegar and mustard. This warm potato salad is definitely a side that is worthy of being served with a stack of ribs. No matter what you’re grilling, enjoy all three of these salads that pair beautifully with summer’s best barbecue fare.

2. When corn is cool, cut kernels from cob and place in a large bowl. Add tomatoes and onions.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, chili powder, salt and pepper until emulsified. Pour into bowl with corn and toss until combined. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

German Potato Salad Servings: 8-10 This hearty potato salad is coated with a sweet, tangy dressing. Be sure the potatoes are warm when tossed with the dressing; they will soak up the dressing and become infused with flavor. It’s a great side dish for any occasion from a grilled dinner to a summer potluck.

3 pounds small red potatoes 1/2 pound bacon, diced 2 cups red onion, diced 1 Tablespoon fresh garlic, minced 1 cup dill pickles, diced 1/2 cup olive oil 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 2 Tablespoons grainy mustard 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning

2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet on medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.

Leave rendered bacon fat in skillet.

3. Add onions to bacon fat, and cook on medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and pickles and cook until heated, 1-2 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper until emulsified. Pour into skillet with onion mixture and cook until heated, about 2 minutes.

5. Drain potatoes and lightly rinse with cool water.

When cool enough to handle, remove peels and slice into 1/2-inch rounds.

6. Place potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Pour heated dressing over potatoes and gently combine until the potatoes are well coated.

Let sit, tossing occasionally, until the dressing is absorbed, about 10 minutes. Just before serving, add crispy bacon and gently mix until combined.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook just until tender, about 20 minutes.

Do Ahead: Bacon can be cooked 3 days ahead, cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Vinaigrette can be made 3 days ahead; cover and refrigerate. Heat before >> adding to warm potatoes.

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IN Great Taste

INside Dining

Neighborhood Café, 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-866-3683

New Orleans is home to more great restaurants than we could hope to list here. For a comprehensive listing of restaurants in the New Orleans metro area, please refer to Tom Fizmorris’

photo: YVETTE JEMISON

nomenu.com. In this guide, you will find

Marinated Cucumber Salad Servings: 6 Are you looking for new ways to use all of those summer cucumbers? This simple salad will make great use of your bounty while pairing well with smoked meats. Don’t skip the first step of salting and rinsing the cucumbers— this will remove liquid from the cucumbers and avoid a watered-down dressing.

Your finished dish will yield perfectly coated cucumber for a refreshing summer salad.

3 large cucumbers (about 2 lbs.), peeled and thinly sliced 2 Tablespoons kosher salt, plus 1/4 teaspoon for dressing 1/3 cup sliced almonds 1/4 cup olive oil 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar 2 teaspoons sesame oil 1 garlic clove, minced 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 cup green onions, sliced

1. In a medium bowl, toss cucumbers with 2 102

Inside New Orleans

Tom’s fleur de lis ratings are shown.

Ave. (Hyatt Regency Hotel), 504-613-3860

CARROLLTON, RIVERBEND AND BROADMOOR Babylon Café aaa Middle Eastern, 7724 Maple St., 504-314-0010 Barcelona Tapas aaa Spanish, 720 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 Cooter Brown’s Tavern aaa Sandwiches, 509 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-866-9104 Cowbell aa Hamburgers, 8801 Oak St., 504-866-4222 Dante’s Kitchen aaaa Eclectic, 736 Dante St., 504-861-3121 Dat Dog a Craft Hot Dogs,

5030 Freret St., 504-899-6883

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,

Café Adelaide aaaa Contemporary Creole, 300 Poydras St., 504-595-3305 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 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 St., 504-412-2580 Morton’s The Steakhouse aaa Steak, 365 Canal St. (Canal Place Mall), 504-566-0221 Mother’s aaa Sandwiches, 401 Poydras St., 504-523-9656 Poppy’s Crazy Lobster Bar & Grill a Seafood, 500 Port of New Orelans Pl., Suite 83. 504-5693380 Poppy’s Time Out Sports Bar & Grill. Hamburgers. 1 Poydras St.

7623 Maple St., 504-314-9003

(Riverfront). 504-247-9265

Mat & Naddie’s aaaa Eclectic,

Restaurant August aaaaa

Mikimoto aaaa Japanese, 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-1881 Mona’s Café aa Middle Eastern, 1120 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-861-8174

Eclectic, 301 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-299-9777 Ruby Slipper Café aaa Breakfast, Neighborhood Café, 200 Magazine St., 504-525-9355 Ruth’s Chris Steak House aaa Steak,

Panchita’s aaa Central American, 1434

525 Fulton St., 504-587-7099

S. Carrollton Ave., 504-281-4127

Windsor Court Grill Room aaa

Pupuseria La Macarena aaa Central American, 8120 Hampson

American, 300 Gravier St., 504-522-1994

St., 504-862-5252 Riccobono’s Panola Street Café aa Breakfast, 7801 Panola St.,

For more recipes go to Ydelicacies.com and @y_ delicacies on Instagram.

Magazine St., 504-524-3386 Borgne aaa Seafood, 601 Loyola

937 Leonidas St., 504-861-9600

Do Ahead: This salad can be made up to 4 hours ahead but should be served the day it is made. Almonds can be toasted, cooled and stored at room temperature in an airtight container up to 1 week ahead.

Roosevelt Hotel. 504-648-1200 Bon Ton Café aaa Cajun, 401

some of the best bets around town.

Dublin St., 504-861-9696

Tablespoons salt and let stand 15 minutes. Rinse, drain, spread on a dish towel and pat dry. Set aside.

1. In a dry skillet on medium heat, cook almonds until toasted, 4-5 minutes.

Immediately transfer to a plate to cool.

2. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper until emulsified.

3. In a medium bowl, toss cucumbers, onions and dressing until well combined.

Chill until ready to serve.

4. Just before serving, toss toasted almonds into salad.

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT Blue Room aaa American, 123 Baronne,

504-314-1810 Vincent’s aaaa Italian, 7839 St. Charles Ave., 504-866-9313 Ye Olde College Inn aaa

FRENCH QUARTER 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

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Bienville St., 504-523-5433 Bayona aaaa Eclectic, 430 Dauphine St., 504-525-4455 Bombay Club aaa Contemporary Creole, 830 Conti St., 504-577-2237 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., 504-522-7261 Crescent City Brewhouse aaa Pub Food, 527 Decatur St., 504-522-0571 Criollo aaa Creole French, 214 Royal St., 504-681-4444 Dat Dog a Craft Hot Dogs, 601 Frenchmen St., 505-309-3362 The Davenport Lounge Small bites and cocktails, 921 Canal Street (The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans) 504-670-2828 Deanie’s Seafood Seafood, 841 Iberville St., 504-581-1316 Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse aaa Steak, 716 Iberville St.,

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Creole, 201 Royal St., 504-523-2078 Muriel’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 801 Chartres St., 504-568-1885 Napoleon House aa Sandwiches, 500 Chartres St., 504-524-9752 New Orleans Creole Cookery Classic Creole, 510 Toulouse St., 504-524-9632 NOLA aaaa Contemporary Creole, 534 St. Louis St., 504-522-6652 Palace Café aaa Contemporary Creole, 605 Canal St., 504-523-1661 Pelican Club aaaaa Contemporary Creole, 312 Exchange Place, 504-523-1504 Port of Call aaa Hamburgers, 838 Esplanade Ave., 504-523-0120 R’evolution aaaa Creole French, 777 Bienville, 504-553-2277 Red Fish Grill aaa Seafood, 115 Bourbon St., 504-598-1200 Rib Room aaa American, 621 St. Louis St., 504-529-7045 SoBou aaa Contemporary Creole, 310 Chartres St., 504-552-4095 Stanley aa Breakfast, 547 St. Ann St., 504-587-0093 Tujague’s aaa Creole, 823 Decatur St., 504-525-8676

504-522-2467 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., 504-335-3932 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., 504-

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., 504-525-4937 Juan’s Flying Burrito aaa Mexican, 2018 Magazine St., 504-569-0000 Mr. John’s Steakhouse aaaa Steak, 2111 St. Charles Ave., 504-679-7697 Sushi Brothers aaa Japanese, 1612 St. Charles Ave., 504-581-4449 Tracey’s aaa Sandwiches, 2604 Magazine St., 504-897-5413

596-2530 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 M Bistro aaaFarm to Table Restaurant 921 Canal Street (The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans) 504-670-2828 Mr. B’s Bistro aaaa Contemporary

LAKEVIEW Café Navarre aa Sandwiches, 800 Navarre Ave., 504-483-8828 Cava aaaa New Orleans Style, 785 Harrison Ave, New Orleans LA 70124, 504-304-9034 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

>>

June-July 2017 103

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Munch Factory aaa Contemporary Creole, 6325 Elysian Fields Ave.,

504-455-2266 Italian, 1917 Ridgelake Dr.,

Ralph’s On The Park aaaa

504-835-4008 Ruth’s Chris Steak House aaaa Steak, 3633 Veterans Blvd.,

Park Ave., 504-488-1000 Steak Knife aaa Contemporary Creole, 888 Harrison Ave.,

504-888-3600 Sandro’s Trattoria aaa Creole

504-488-8981 METAIRIE

Vincent’s aaaa Creole Italian, 4411 Chastant St., 504-885-2984 Zea aaa American, 4450 Veterans Blvd. (Clearview Mall), 504780-9090; 1655 Hickory Ave.,

3547 N. Hullen., 504-267-9190

Harahan, 504-738-0799

Café East aaa Pan-Asian, 4628

Coffee, 214 N. Carrollton Ave.,

1821 Hickory Ave., Harahan,

504-486-0078 Café Degas aaa French, 3127

Casablanca aaa Mediterranean,

Esplanade Ave., 504-945-5635 Café Minh aaaa Vietnamese, 4139

China Rose aaa Chinese, 3501 N. Arnoult St., 504-887-3295 428 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 504-833-2722 Cypress aaa Contemporary Creole, 4426 Transcontinental Blvd., 504-885-6885 Dat Dog a Craft Hot Dogs, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd. (Lakeside Mall), 504-304-7005 Drago’s aaaa Seafood, 3232 N. Arnoult Rd., 504-888-9254 Heritage Grill Contemporary Creole, 111 Veterans Blvd., 504-934-4900 Impastato’s aaaa Creole Italian, 3400 16th St., 504-455-1545 Little Tokyo aaa Japanese, 2300 N. Causeway Blvd., 504-831-6788 Martin Wine Cellar Deli aaa Deli, 714 Elmeer Ave., 504-896-7300 Mellow Mushroom aa Pizza, 30 craft beers on tap, 3131 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 504-644-4155 Mr. Ed’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 1001 Live Oak St., 504-838-0022 Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House

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., 504-821-3271 Dooky Chase aaa Creole, 2301 Orleans Ave., 504-821-0600 Five Happiness aaa Chinese, 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-482-3935 Juan’s Flying Burrito aaa Mexican, 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-486-9950 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

Cafe Trang Vietnamese, 4637 Alcee Fortier Blvd., 504-254-4109 Castnet Seafood aaa Seafood speciality, 10826-1/2 Hayne Blvd., 504-244-8446 Deanie’s on Hayne aaa Seafood, 7350 Hayne Blvd., 504-248-6700 Messina’s Runway Cafe Creole Stripes Blvd., 504-241-5300 NORTHSHORE Acme Oyster House aaa Seafood, 1202 US 190, Covington, 985-246-6155 Café Lynn aaaa Contemporary Creole, 2600 Florida St., Mandeville, 985624-9007 Carreta’s Grill a Mexican, 1340 Lindberg Dr., Slidell, 985-847Covington, 985-871-6674 The Chimes aaa Cajun, 19130 W. Front St., Covington, 985-892-5396 Dakota aaaa Contemporary Creole, 629 N. US 190, Covington, 985-892-3712 DiCristina’s aaa Italian, 810 N. Columbia St., Covington, 985-875-0160 Fazzio’saa Italian,1841 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-624-9704 Gallagher’s Grill aaaa Contemporary Creole, 509 S. Tyler George’s aaa Mexican, 1461 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985626-4342 Keith Young’s Steak House aaaa Steak, 165 LA 21, Madisonville, 985-845-9940 La Carreta aaa Mexican, 812 Hyw

Houma Blvd., 504-457-4188 Riccobono’s Peppermill aaa Creole Italian, 3524 Severn Ave.,

Inside New Orleans

Rue 127 aaaa Contemporary Creole, 127 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-483-1571

190, Covington, 985-327-5407 Nathan’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 36440 Old Bayou Liberty New Orleans Food & Spiritsaaa Seafood, 208 Lee Lane, Covington, 985-875-0432 Nuvolari’s aaaa Creole Italian, 246 Girod St., Mandeville, 985-626-5619 Ox Lot 9 aaa Contemporary, 428 E Boston St., Covington, 985-400-5663 Pardo’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 69305 Hwy 21, Covington, 985-893-3603 501 E. Boston St., Covington, 985-875-1006 Sal and Judy’s aaaa Italian, 27491 Highway 190, Lacombe, 985882-9443 Zea aaa American, 110 Lake Dr., Covington, 985-327-0520; 173 Northshore Blvd., Slidell, 985-3270520 OLD METAIRIE Byblos aaa Middle Eastern, 1501 Metairie Rd., 504-834-9773 Café B aaa Contemporary Creole, 2700 Metairie Rd., 504-934-4700 Galley Seafood aaa Seafood, 2535 Metairie Rd., 504-832-0955 Porter & Luke’s aaa Creole Homestyle, 1517 Metairie Rd., 504-875-4555 Vega Tapas Café aaa Mediterranean, 2051 Metairie Rd., 504-836-2007 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.,

Mandeville, 985-624-2990

Cortez St., 504-309-5531

craft beers on tap, 1645 N. Hwy.

190, Covington, 985-400-5202; 1200 W. Causeway Approach,

Neighborhood Café, 139 S.

985-892-0708 Mellow Mushroom aa Pizza, 30

St., Covington, 985-892-9992

504-482-3047

3939 Veterans Blvd., 504-885-3416

Gibson St., Covington,

0020; 70380 LA Hwy. 21,

Sandwiches, 538 Hagan Ave.,

Pho Orchid aaa Vietnamese, 3117

985-674-9883 Mattina Bella aaa Breakfast, 421 E.

Ristorante Del Porto aaaa Italian,

Street, 504-833-6310

Ruby Slipper Café aaa Breakfast,

4240 La 22, Mandeville,

Rd., Slidell, 985-643-0443 NEW ORLEANS EAST

aaa Seafood, 3117 21St. Parran’s Po-Boys aaa Sandwiches,

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Carrollton Ave., 504-488-7991 Willie Mae’s Scotch House aaa

Angelo Brocato aaa Dessert and

Veterans Blvd., 504-837-6696;

Crabby Jack’s aaa Sandwiches,

Venezia aaa Italian, 134 N.

Homestyle, 6001 Stars and MID-CITY

Rye St., 504-888-0078

3030 Severn Ave., 504-888-2209

Carrollton Ave., 504-252-4999

504-822-9503

Clearview Pkwy., 504-885-4845;

504-305-4833

Toups’ Meatery aaa Cajun, 845 N.

504-888-7784

3535 Severn Ave., 504-885-5088

Caffe! Caffe! aa Breakfast, 4301

Carreta’s Grill a Mexican, 2320

B, 504-301-9196

Chicken, 2401 St. Ann St.,

Taqueria Corona aaa Mexican,

Austin’s aaaa Creole, 5101 West Esplanade Ave., 504-888-5533

food, 231 N. Carrollton Ave., Ste.

Italian, 6601 Veterans Blvd.,

Veterans Blvd., 504-833-7477

Andrea’s aa Italian, 3100 19th St., 504-834-8583

SWEGS Kitchen Healthy comfort

Shogun aaaa Japanese, 2325

Acme Oyster House aaa Seafood, 3000 Veterans Blvd., 504-309-4056

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Ristorante Filippo aaa Creole

504-324-5372 Contemporary Creole, 900 City

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La Provence aaaa French, 25020 US 190, Lacombe, 985-626-7662 Lakehouse aaa Contemporary Creole, 2025 Lakeshore Dr., Mandeville, 985-626-3006 Mandina’s aaa Italian, Seafood,

504-891-9626 Baru Bistro & Tapas aaa Caribbean, 3700 Magazine St., 504-895-2225 Bistro Daisy aaaa Creole French, 5831 Magazine St., 504-899-6987 Casamento’s aaa Seafood, 4330

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Magazine St., 504-895-9761 Charlie’s Steak House aaa Steak, 4510 Dryades St., 504-895-9323 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., 504-754-1336 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 Prytania St., 504-899-8886

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Café Reconcile aaa Lunch Café, 1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 504-568-1157 Cochon aaa Cajun, 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-588-2123 Emeril’s aaaaa Contemporary Creole, 800 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-528-9393 Grand Isle aaa Seafood, 575 Convention Center Blvd., 504-520-8530 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 Tomas Bistro aaaa Creole French, 755 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-5270942 Tommy’s Cuisine aaaa Creole Italian, 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-581-1103

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 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

WEST BANK Kim Son aaa Vietnamese, 349 Whitney Ave., 504-366-2489 La Fiesta aaa Mexican, 1412 Stumpf Blvd., 504-361-9142 La Providencia aaa Central American, 2300 Belle Chasse Hwy., 504-368-5724 O’Brien’s aaaa Steak, 2020 Belle Chasse Hwy., 504-391-7229 Panda King aaa Chinese, 925 Behrman Hwy., 504-433-0388 Pho Bang aaa Vietnamese, 932 Westbank Expy., 504-872-9002

Magazine St., 504-941-7560 Salú aaa Eclectic, 3226 Magazine St., 504-371-5809 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., 504-891-9822

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

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT AND CENTRAL CITY American Sector aa American, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1940 Annunciation aaaa Contemporary Creole, 1016 Annunciation St., 504-568-0245

Sala Small plates and great cocktails, 124 Lake Marina, 504-513-2670 Two Tony’s aaa Creole Italian, 8536 Pontchartrain Blvd., 504-282-0801 Wasabi aaa Japanese, 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., 504-267-3263

June-July 2017 105

A Wedding

by Design

by Leah Draffen

106

Inside New Orleans

LIKE A TRUE FASHION DESIGNER, Sarah Dewey Petitto’s wedding started on an inspiration board. Heavily inspired by family history, her and Phillip’s Sicilian heritage, and textured fabrics, her board was filled with bridal photos of her mom, grandmothers and mother-in-law-to-be, swatches of brocade, lace and everything in between. Her bridesmaids wore custom gowns designed and manufactured by her company, Jolie and Elizabeth.

Perhaps the only dress not created

by Sarah was her own gown, which was designed by Hailey Paige and purchased at Town & Country Bridal.

We sat down with Sarah to get all the details of this beautiful, Europeaninspired wedding.

Q: A:

As a designer, how was it to design your own wedding?

“It turns out that planning a wedding is a lot like planning a collection, or even planning an outfit for the day. I think a lot of women get overwhelmed with Pinterest boards and bridal blogs telling them what is trendy and what is popular. What I found most important is to focus your wedding around your style and your priorities. I worked with one of the most amazing planners in the city (who also happens to be one of my very best friends, Sarah Worsley of Mint Julep Productions) to create the perfect wedding for Phillip and me. We are both Sicilian, and I knew that I wanted to incorporate Italian traditions and an overall European feel. It actually ended up being quite easy to plan, since I had a vision from the start.”

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Sarah Elizabeth Dewey crafts her dream wedding

photo: 63 FILMS TREGG ISTRE

Q: A:

How did you nail down a color scheme?

I started by writing down the feel I wanted our guests to get when they attended our wedding—sophisticated, cultured, warm and timeless. I knew I wanted to incorporate golds, ivorys, whites, greens and a touch of different red tones. I also knew I wanted to be swimming in olive branches. We started there and built up: the base of the palette was light and dark greens from either side of the olive branches; we would drape them all across the wedding, use in the bouquets, and place on the chandeliers. From there, we layered champagne brocade dresses, gold candelabras, gold lanterns and even hand painted some of the olive branches with gold and platinum to tie them in. Then we added white and ivory where we could in the lighting, linens and cake. I wanted to incorporate red so you would get a very Italian feel—the red, green, and white color story as a secondary color story. The bridal party wore red lipstick and red nails and we threw in handmade red cake pulls; red, green, and white boas; and Italian flags where we could.

It was playful, yet timeless, and all came together in the most beautiful way.”

Q: A:

Where did your inspiration come from for the bridal party dresses?

“I knew that I wanted to use a textured gold or champagne fabric—something Old World-looking, almost vintage or antique. I wanted the silhouette to look good on every height and body type. Finding the fabric was hard—I did not want anything sequined or metallic that would go in and out of style, but something classic and timeless. It took me about six weeks to finally find a color and style I absolutely loved. We layered the brocade over silk shantung and a few layers of tulle to give the illusion of a full skirt. The top was very fitted and flattering and the skirt full with lots of movement and pockets. ” June-July 2017 107

M A R R I A G E A N D L O V E I N

Simmons-Penny Estelle Fisher Simmons and Bryce Ashton Penny exchanged vows at The Marsh House on Avery Island, a family home since the 1800s. The bride’s uncle, Cameron Simmons, officiated the ceremony at the treasured wedding location. Ellie donned a white lace gown with a fitted bodice from Town & Country Bridal, a chapel-length veil and an heirloom pin that belonged to her great, great grandmother. Her pup, Gus, stood in as co-ring bearer for the ceremony. Tabasco barrels, fresh flowers and lighted trees dressed the historic home’s yard.

At the reception, guests enjoyed chargrilled oysters and other Louisiana seafood by Nelson Boutte, as well as sushi from Tsunami. The bride’s white chocolate and raspberry cake was complemented by the groom’s chocolate cake, which was decorated with fun “crest” designed by Ellie and implemented by one of her talented bridesmaids was used on the invitation and repeated on cups and napkins from Party Cups Express. Music by the Groove Addiction from Nashville played through the evening, leading up to a fireworks show. After honeymooning in Belize, the happy couple returned home to Bakersfield, California.

108

Inside New Orleans

photos: EMILY SONGER PHOTOGRAPHY

a “Bryce’s best catch” fish trophy. The dragon-and-stag

INside Peek St. Martin’s Totally ‘80s Gala For the St. Martin’s Totally ’80s Gala, Chairperson Melanie Branton Manzella and her team took guests back to revisit a decade known for big hair, big shoulders and big (loud) music. The gala’s presenting sponsor was Didriksen, Saucier, Woods & Pichon, PLC. The Patron Party was held in the Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design.

At the gala, the ’80s rocked with music

by The Molly Ringwalds. The Adkerson Gymnasium was transformed to a blackand-neon colored backdrop for oversized ’80s memorabilia.

Guests savored delicious edibles from local restaurants and bid on the nearly 300 items featured in the silent and live auctions.

1. Jodi Archer, Sandra Lindquist, Amy Landry and Alejandra Guzman at the Equal Pay Day hosted by American Business Women’s Association, FestiGals and the New Orleans Chamber. 2. Cindy Bennet, Francesca Lupo and Beth DePass 2

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celebrating Francesca’s engagement at the Hotel Monteleone. 3. Four-legged friends, supporters and vendors celebrating the opening of Wally Pontiff Dog Park with a ribbon cutting. 4. Rau for Art Foundation Scholarship Winner Lexi Despaux with Bill Rau at M.S. Rau Antiques’ Finalists

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Exhibition. 5. Alumnus of the Year David Trepagnier Sr., Marianna Trepagnier, Karen Stall and Chuck Stall at the Brother Martin High School’s Senator Allen J. Ellender Alumnus of the Year Award ceremony weekend. 6. Kenny Spellman, Tommy Mitchell, David Trepagnier Sr., John Devlin, Scott Corrente and Greg Rando.

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6 June-July 2017 109

INside Peek 1. Elizabeth and Ben Janke with Andree and Jay Batt at the home of Rick and Lori Murphy for the Bienville Club and Athenians Northshore party. 2. Matt and Mary Pat Barousse. 3. Elizabeth and Bill Sewell with

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Mike Turner and Alan Yacoubian. 4. Donald and Mary Kay Collins. 5. Bill and Anne Hughs.

6. Marybeth Mullin, Robert Santopadre, Gretchen Armbruster, Cathy Schroeder and Becky Buras celebrating at Lola’s.

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Sugarplum Ball

photos courtesy: CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

The sold-out 2017 Sugarplum Ball was held this year at the New Orleans Public Belt RaillRoad. The Casino Royale-themed evening was presented by Bryan Subaru and co-chaired by Cherie Albro and Jamie Cangelosi. Guests enjoyed music by Four Unplugged and drinks and food from New Orleans’ finest restaurants.

The proceeds of the evening benefitted Children’s Hospital’s Family Housing Complex, which will provide 28 suites for patient families as a part of the hospital’s current expansion onto its State Street Campus.

110

Inside New Orleans

photos courtesy: ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART

Academy of the Sacred Heart Headmistress’ Dinner More than 140 guests joined Academy of the Sacred Heart Headmistress Sr. Melanie Guste, RSCJ, to experience the flavors of New Orleans during an evening honoring the Headmistress’ Circle of Donors for their contributions to the school’s 2016-2017 Annual Giving Campaign. The evening took place in the school’s historic front courtyard on St. Charles Avenue and featured exquisite cuisine generously donated by the Besh Restaurant Group and Octavio Mantilla.

photos courtesy: THE NEW ORLEANS CHAMBER

The New Orleans Chamber Meet & Greet Luncheon FestiGals, The New Orleans Chamber and Women Presidents’ Organization, hosted a Meet & Greet Luncheon with Port of New Orleans President and CEO Brandy D. Christian at the Windsor Court Hotel. Attendees enjoyed views of the river while networking before and after the program.

The presentation offered valuable professional advice as well as information on the Port of New Orleans as Christian discussed “Port of New Orleans: Diversity Fosters Growth.”

June-July 2017 111

INside Peek

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1 1. Sybil Morial and Unsung Hero Jerome Smith at the New Orleans Recreation Development Foundation CHAMPIONS Inaugural Gala. 2. Andy Kopplin, Mark

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Hatfield, Mayor Mitch Landrieu and Charles Rice. 3. Shonnda Smith, Louis Lauricella and Annie LaRock. 4. Archie, May, Olivia and Cooper Manning. 5. Suzy Montero, Louisiana State Representative Helena Moreno and Chamber Board Chairman Melissa Gibbs at the New Orleans Chamber Second Quarter Business Luncheon. 6. New Orleans Chamber President and CEO Ben

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Johnson, Dwight Barnes, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards, Dr. Charles Teamer, Justin Augustine and Justin Augustine IV. 7. Christa Talbot and Shelita Domino celebrating at Top Taco.

8. Holly Edwards, Chad Hoffmeister, Shane Finkelstein and Ashley Labarre.

9. Penny Baumer, Skylar Bryant and Hali Unger at the home of Ed and Janice Foulks celebrating new members of the

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Historic French Quarter Easter Parade.

10. Amy Carbonette and Janice Foulks.

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photos courtesy: RMHC OF SOUTH LOUISIANA

Men In Kilts Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Louisiana held its third annual Men In Kilts fundraising contest. Area businessmen, physicians, musicians and artists participated by raising votes in the form of $10 donations to the charity during the online event. For raising the most money, Paul Tuennerman was named “King of the Kilts� at the awards party held at the Irish House. The contestants collectively raised over $20,000 for RMHC of South Louisiana.

June-July 2017 113

Last Bite

Sala Restaurant + Bar

by Leah Draffen

Owner Joe Riccobono invites you to try Sala’s House Cured Salmon Board.

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Inside New Orleans

IN THE LINE UP of Riccobono family establishments, Sala is the latest to open, joining Peppermill, Riccobono’s Panola St. Café, and Café Navarre. Designed after its name, Sala is a modern, comfortable space that makes guests feel at home. The menu focuses on delicious cocktails and wines paired with delectable small plates.

Dinner offers shareable plates such as a House Cured Salmon Board, Herb Truffle Fries, Oysters Panné, and Bacon Brussel Sprouts, among other dishes, while large plates serve Broiled Gulf Fish Beurre Blanc, Chicken Caprese, Golden Fried Drum Almondine and more. Savor dinner with a Cucumber Rose Martini or a Dark Berry or Strawberry Blossom cocktail.

On Saturdays and Sundays, family and friends can enjoy time together over brunch, starting at 8 a.m. House brunch specials include Zeppole—fried powdered sugar donuts with cream cheese icing;

Kentucky Hot Brown—open-faced turkey and bacon sandwich with Mornay cream sauce, pimentos, diced tomatoes and sunny-side-up egg; Sala Burgers; and French Toast. Classic Benedicts and omelets include extra twists, whether it’s grilled tomatoes, sautéed crawfish or fresh avocado. Pair brunch with a House Infused Bloody Mary, Bellini or Irish Coffee to truly enjoy your weekend.

Happy Hour on Tuesdays through Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. and late night Happy Hour Thursdays from 10 p.m. to midnight pour $5 house wines by the glass, $5 classic cocktails, half-priced draft beers and $3 off other wines and sparkling wines by the glass.

Sala Restaurant + Bar is located at 124 Lake Marina Ave. Open Tues-Wed, 4-10pm; Thurs-Fri, 4pm-midnight; Sat, 8am-midnight; and Sun, 8am-9pm. 5132670. salanola.com.

photos: DAVID TOMPKINS PHOTOGRAPHY

SALA:noun (sa·la), a large or important room or hall; especially: one used in a home for the reception and entertainment of guests.