April-May 2018 Issue of Inside New Orleans by Inside Publications

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INSIDEPUB.com

LAMBETH HOUSE •

XXXX •

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

APRIL-MAY 2018 VOL. 5, NO. 2

April-May 2018

Publisher

Vol. 5, No. 2

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

Brad Growden Jennifer Starkey

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

Business Manager

Senior Account Executives

Jane Quillin Barbara Bossier

Jonée Daigle-Ferrand

Poki Hampton

Candice Laizer

Barbara Roscoe

Account Executives

Louisa Holowesko

Amy Taylor

Margaret Rivera

Advertising Coordinator

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

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. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

On the cover

Contact

mail P.O. Box 6048 Metairie, LA 70009 phone

(504) 934-9684

fax (504) 934-7721 Artist Becky Fos Find more on page 18.

website insidepub.com Subscriptions 1 Year $18 2 Years $30 email subscriptions@insidepub.com

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 ©2018 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 60

page 30 page 36

Features 18 The Accidental Artist Cover Artist Becky Fos 30 Statement Hues Q & A with Susan Currie 36 Voices of History The Remarkable Letter Collection at Lambeth House 42 30 Years in Motion Francoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Athletic Club 48 The Mississippiâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;A Claim, False Claims & Acclaim

Home & Garden 53 Home & Garden Resources

55 IN the Bookcase The Grumpy Gardener by Steve Bender 56 Home Trends

Women IN Business Begins on page 64

page 48 8

Inside New Orleans

Senior Living 82 Senior Living Resources

page 58

contents table of

Departments

12 Publisher’s Note

60 INside Look

14 Editor’s Note

86 IN Love & Marriage

16 Contributors

88 INside Peek Featuring: Sipping and Shopping with Beth DePass At the Jazz Band Ball everyBody wellness Welcomes Chef Verati’s Roadshow 91 IN Great Taste Chocolate Truffles

22 INside Scoop 44 At the Table The Seasons of Sicily in New Orleans 47 Wine Cellar Summer Wines 58 Flourishes Extraordinary gifts and home accents

page 91

92 INside Dining 98 Last Bite Briquette

Welcome by Lori Murphy

Those of us steeped in the South consider a generous welcome the highest of compliments. Valuing that tradition is probably why the tourism experts say that over 30 percent of the people who visit New Orleans stay with friends or family. Could it be that our liberal interpretation of who is “family”

Savhee t Date Insider Experience:

Covington Art Weekend June 29-July 1

adds to that number? Undoubtedly so. Publishing affords us a great “family” of friends and interesting acquaintances who give personality to our communities. We examined—and imagined—the kinds of unique welcoming experiences we could offer to our readers. What might New Orleanians like to discover about the northshore? And, vice versa. We’ve asked some of our “family” to help us welcome you in exciting, fun upcoming Insider Experiences. The first of these is in late June. Centered around the influence of a vibrant community of artists on the northshore, the weekend will include a guided tour of the historic murals of St. Joseph Abbey, private visits with some well-known artists in their northshore studios and other artcentric activities. We will be hosted for the weekend by the beautifully restored historic Southern Hotel in the heart of downtown Covington. Space is limited, so don’t wait to sign up. Call 985-400-5657 for additional information. We look forward to welcoming you to the northshore.

Inside New Orleans

Events will include:

Opening Cocktail Reception Covington Gallery Stroll Private Tours of Artist Studios Tour of the de Wit Murals at St. Joseph Abbey Call

985-400-5657

to place your reservation today.

Editor’s Note by Anne Honeywell Every spring, we celebrate Women IN Business. I love working on this issue—it is very inspiring to me. I have been able to meet and work with some amazingly bright and powerful business women who motivate me. This year, this special section is being presented by Fidelity Bank, and I could not be prouder of this association with Inside New Orleans. Their new campaign, P.O.W.E.R. (Potential of Women Entrepreneurs Realized), is designed to meet the unique needs of women in business throughout our region. One of Fidelity Bank’s slogans for this campaign is: We believe in the power of you. Fidelity Bank will believe in you and your vision, and you should too. We all need to believe in ourselves and our power to be successful, both in our business and personal lives. The power is inside all of us, just waiting to be tapped. Fidelity Bank is on to something there. I hope you will enjoy reading about our 2018 Women IN Business beginning on page 64. Our cover artist for this issue is Becky Fos; learn more about her journey and her art on page 18, penned by Shauna Grissett. Features in this issue include Karen Gibbs’ article (page 36) on Bill Pennick’s extraordinary collection of photographs and letters on display in the lobby of Lambeth House. On page 44, Tom Fitzmorris is speaking my language— Italian! He explores the many dining options, both old and new, in “The Seasons of Sicily in New Orleans.” He also includes two of his favorite recipes. Don’t miss it. Happy Spring! Enjoy this issue—and remember to always believe in the power of you!

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, Sara Essex Bradley, Mindy Cordell, Leah

Tom Fitzmorris Tom Fitzmorris grew up in Treme, ate red beans every Monday from his Creole-French mother until he left home. Not long after that, he began writing a weekly restaurant review column that has continued for more than 40 years. In 1975, he began a daily radio feature, which grew into his current three-hour daily talk show on 1350, 3WL. He is the author of several cookbooks, more than a dozen restaurant guidebooks, a daily online newsletter (nomenu.com), and joins us At the Table on page 44.

Draffen, Thomas B. Growden, Yvette Jemison, Bill Kearney, Shauna Grissett and Terri Schlichenmeyer.

With the recent publication of Tom Fitzmorris’s New Orleans Food (Revised and Expanded Edition): More Than 250 of the City’s Best Recipes to Cook at Home, Tom is refreshing his bestselling cookbook New Orleans Food. The new book features all of the favorite recipes, steeped in the town’s Creole and Cajun traditions, but is updated to include a 16-page color insert with gorgeous food photography and an updated introduction.

Candra George

Karen B. Gibbs

Joey Kent

Candra George is a wife, mother, travel junkie and collector of all things vintage and shiny. She’s been a professional photographer since 2007 and has been blessed to work with some of the best in the industry. When Candra isn’t traveling and shooting, she spends her days at home, with her husband, son and stubborn French bulldog. In this issue, Candra’s photos accompany several Women IN Business profiles and the article about the Penicks’ collection of letters on page 36.

Longtime contributor and former managing editor of Inside Northside, Karen B. Gibbs enjoys writing about the fascinating people and places of New Orleans and the northshore. A contributor to Today.com and iVillage.com, Karen recently completed the biography of her father-in-law, a WWII paratrooper. When not writing, she enjoys traveling with her husband and spoiling their grandchild. On page 36, she shares her interview with Bill Penick.

Joey Kent, a longtime author, historian and archivist, relocated his family from Shreveport to New Orleans several years ago to continue work in the movie industry. He has over 60 film festival awards for screenwriting and is wrapping up work on a coffee table book about the historic Louisiana Hayride radio and stage show, which is due for release next summer. The Kents—Joey, Amber and daughter Adelaide—love the rich history and culture of their new home. On page 48, Joey continues telling the story of the founding of New Orleans.

Inside New Orleans

The Accidental Artist Cover Artist Becky Fos BECKY FOS, born and raised in Austin, Texas, never aspired to be a painter, let alone to have a gallery on famous Magazine Street. In fact, it was a series of unexpected occurrences that led to her future destiny. Well, that and natural talent. Unbelievably, Fos never studied studio art or painting in a traditional setting and says, “I always loved art, but except for in high school, I’ve had no formal training.” With art not on the forefront of her mind, Fos’ life took off in a different direction with her focus on finding the right career and caring for her young family. “Initially, I started painting to relieve stress. That, and I was tired of looking at the bare, white walls in my house. I needed ‘art’ to decorate but couldn’t afford it and thought I could paint my own. I went to the art supply store with my little boy, bought some really cheap supplies and just started painting. And, that’s how I got started.” While this time may have felt a bit challenging for her, Fos would soon understand that her life was going exactly according to plan. Back then, Fos was living in Old Gretna. “I had painted this purple cow, and when I went to the frame shop to pick it up, the >> 18

Inside New Orleans

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

by Shauna Grissett

Inside New Orleans

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

owner told me that Terrance Osborne wanted to buy it. Terrance said that he loved my art because it was so colorful and vibrant. And the fact that I didn’t go to art school or have any training really impressed him. I couldn’t believe it!” Now, lady luck was beginning to show her hand. Osborne has since become a mentor and friend to Fos and owns two pieces of her work. The frame shop functioned as Fos’ first gallery, and the owner showed her paintings in the store’s windows. “I started selling that way, in the frame shop, as well as on Facebook and Instagram. Then, I did my first festival, Gretna Fest. It was there that I made a connection with someone who owned a frame shop on Metairie Road. He offered me half of his shop to show my art.” Her work proved to be so popular and sold so well that within the first week, a gallery on Royal Street contacted Fos about representing her. Luck was now clearly smiling down on Fos and her future was coming into focus. After only a few short months on Royal Street, Fos made the decision to represent herself and opened her own gallery on Magazine Street, near Napoleon. “I remember when I signed the lease for my first gallery three years ago, it was really scary. But then I said to myself, ‘What do I have to lose?’ Making that first jump was extremely hard, but you only live once, and I don’t want to live with regrets. I feel so

fortunate that I can make a living with my art and provide for my son.” She has since outgrown her first studio and is now located in Gallery B. Fos, on Magazine Street near Jackson Avenue. Fos has amassed a worldwide audience and is presently looking for gallery spaces in Florida and Texas. Fos’ paintings are bold and energetic, and she is known for her impasto technique, applying wet, undiluted oil paint with a palette knife to the canvas. Her unabashed use of color is the centerpiece of her work and inspires an instant sense of joy. She says, “When I’m at the gallery and see the happy expressions on my clients’ faces, it makes everything worthwhile. I finally found my purpose in life, to make people happy with my art.” And, yes, people are very happy with Fos’ art. Not only does she have local and worldwide client bases, but she is sponsored by two international brands: Lululemon and Evamor Water. “I’m a workout fanatic, and I love CrossFit. I have my daily routine—I wake up, drop off my little boy and I work out. Then, I go to the studio and paint. When I don’t work out, it throws me completely off; I need the endorphins!” In terms of artistic inspiration, Fos cites Van Gogh,

Picasso, Basquiat, James Michalopoulos and Terrance Osborne as particular favorites. And what moves her to pick up her palette knife and oil paints? “I gather boundless inspiration from all corners of this wild, beautiful, and colorful city. New Orleans is my muse. And, I continually return to cows and pelicans as subject matter. I don’t know if that’s because I’m from Texas and now live in Louisiana, but they are my favorites. I love to paint pelicans in action, flying in the air and then landing.” One thing’s for sure, and it was obviously written in the stars, Fos’ career and creative energy are soaring, just like her beloved pelicans. “For me, painting is the most authentic way to express myself, and I try to transform the spirit of my inspirations into oil paintings.” Gallery B. Fos is located at 2138 Magazine St., 444-2967, gallery@beckyfos.com. April-May 2018 21

Tall Ships of America at NOLA Navy Week

April Era. Sponsored by Whitney Bank. The Historic New Orleans Collection, 533 Royal St. Free. 523-4662. hnoc.org.

8-9:30am. neworleanschamber.org/events. 7 Autism Awareness Walk & Family Day.

soarwithautism.org. 7 Chef Kevin Belton’s Tasting and Meet & Greet. WYES introduction to Chef

Half-mile walk/run fundraiser for SOAR

Belton’s new national cooking series,

(Strengthening Outcomes with Autism

Kevin Belton’s New Orleans Kitchen, and

Archetypes. New Orleans Museum of Art,

Resources) with food, music, raffle items,

cookbook. Mingle with the chef while

1 Collins Diboll Crl. 658-4100. noma.org.

silent auction, and more. Lakeview

sampling dishes featuring Plaquemines

Regional Medical Center, 95 Judge

Parish Citrus. WYES Paulette and Frank

Tanner Blvd, Covington. 10am- 2pm.

Stewart Innovation Center for Educational

1-May 28 A Queen Within: Adorned

3 Power Breakfast. New Orleans Chamber. Sponsored by Fidelity Bank. 22

1515 Poydras St, 5th Floor Auditorium.

Inside New Orleans

photo: TALL SHIIPS OF AMERICA

1-May 27 New Orleans: The Founding

April 19-25 Tall ShipsÂŽ of America at NOLA Navy Week. Navy ships and tall ships open for tours. Various dock locations: Port of New Orleans, Woldenberg Riverfront Park at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, and Governor Nichols Street Wharf. Ships arrive, April 19, 2-5pm. On April 21, Tall Ships celebrates New Orleansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 300th with a Tricentennial Gala on deck and dock-side in Woldenberg Park. tallshipsnola2018.com. nolanavyweek.com.

Media, 916 Navarre Ave, Metairie. 2-4pm. For tickets and book orders, iwyes.org/events. 7-May 19 Newman-Daily Spring Fling. Special offers for late-spring getaways. destinvacation.com/destindeals/sprg18. 7-June 9 Vice & Virtue: An Exhibition of Sex, Saints and Sin. M.S.

April-May 2018 23

Inside Scoop Fats” Jackson, Big Sam’s Funky

rauantiques.com/events.

Nation, Dash Rip Rock, Germaine

BirdFest. Annual event of the

7, 14, 21, 28 Champagne

Bazzle, Shamarr Allen and the

Northlake Nature Center when

Saturdays. Symmetry Jewelers

Underdawgs, and hundreds of

many species of birds are

& Designers, 8138 Hampson St.

others. frenchquarterfest.org.

migrating north through Louisiana

10am-5pm. 861-9925. 11-15 A Taste of Covington. Five

by David Burns and Austin

from Mexico and South America. northlakenature.org/birdfest. 13, 20-22 Catch Me if You Can.

Young. Celebrating New Orleans

including Vinter Dinners, Grand

Tricentennial, EMPIRE will explore the

Jefferson Performing Arts Center,

Tasting with over 70 wines, Fiesta del

history of people and place in terms

6400 Airline Dr, Metairie. $20-$75.

Vino, Champagne Brunch and St.

of cultural legacy, historical narrative,

Tammany Art Association’s Spring for

and social constructs through the

Art. atasteofcovington.com.

lens of the diverse Tulane art and

Martin’s visual and performing arts

archives collections. Newcomb Art

programs. St. Martin’s Episcopal

Band. Ogden Museum of Southern

Museum of Tulane, Woldenberg Art

School, 225 Green Acres Rd.

Art, 925 Camp St. 6-8pm.

Center #202, 6823 St. Charles Ave.

8-10pm. 736-9960. 501auctions.

ogdenmuseum.org/events.

865-5328. newcombartmuseum.

com/stmgala.

12-15 French Quarter Festival.

tulane.edu.

jpas.org. 14 Art & Soul Gala. Benefiting St.

15 NOVA VOCE. Third Sunday

13 Business & Breakfast. Jefferson

Concert Series. Christ Episcopal

featuring Louisiana’s unique

Chamber. Hilton New Orleans

Church, 120 S New Hampshire

music, food, arts and culture.

Airport, 901 Airline Dr, Kenner. 7:45-

St, Covington. 5-6pm. Free. (985)

Tons of music including Al “Lil

9:30am. jeffersonchamber.org.

892-3177.

Presented by Chevron; free festival

Inside New Orleans

12-July 7 EMPIRE. Art installation

days of food, wine, music and art,

12 Ogden After Hours. Maggie Belle

13-15 22nd Annual Great Louisiana

Rau Antiques, 630 Royal St.

17-22 Rent. Presented by Broadway

and programs at Delgado

of Girod/Monroe) beginning at

in New Orleans. Saenger Theatre,

Community College. Harrah’s New

3pm; with photo ID, receive cup

1111 Canal St.

Orleans Theater, 8 Canal St. 7pm.

and armband for admittance.

broadwayinneworleans.com.

671-5412. dcc.edu/alumni-giving/

5-9pm. Only 500 cups available.

foundation/roast.aspx.

oldmandevillebiz.com.

19-25 Tall Ships® of America at NOLA Navy Week. Navy ships

20 St. Andrew’s Episcopal

21 Tall Ships® Tricentennial Gala. Tall

and tall ships open for tours.

School Spring Gala & Auction.

Ships celebrate New Orleans’ 300th.

Various dock locations: Port

Celebrating 60 years. Sixties attire

On deck and dock-side black-tie

of New Orleans, Woldenberg

encouraged. Arbor Room at Popp

gala in Woldenberg Park, 1 Canal St.

Riverfront Park at Audubon

Fountain, 30 Zachary Taylor Dr,

Tickets include drinks, food, dancing

Aquarium of the Americas,

City Park. 7-10pm. 501auctions.

and fireworks. 6:45pm-12pm.

and Governor Nichols Street

com/saes.

tallshipsnola2018.com.

Wharf. Ships arrive, April 19,

20 WYES Studio 12 Gala. Presented

21-22 Angola Prison Spring Rodeo

2-5pm. tallshipsnola2018.com.

by Eugenie and Joseph Jones

& Craft Show. Angola State

nolanavyweek.com.

Family Foundation. Seventies attire

Prison, 17544 Hwy 66, Angola, LA.

encouraged. 916 Navarre Ave.

Gates open at 9am; rodeo, 2pm.

8pm. 486-5511. wyes.org.

(225) 655-2060. angolarodeo.com.

20 Kool & the Gang. Beau Rivage Theatre, 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS. 8pm. beaurivage.com. 20 Roast of the Town. Dale Atkins,

21 Girod Street Stroll. Mint juleps

22 Abita Springs Busker Festival.

served at participating businesses;

In conjunction with the New

Walt Leger III and Helena Moreno

light tasting plates by the top

Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival

will roast Governor John Bel

chefs of Old Mandeville. Check-

Foundation. Line up includes

Edwards. Benefiting scholarships

in at registration table (corner

Albanie Faletta and the Southern >>

April-May 2018 25

Inside Scoop Gentlemen, The Slick Skillet Serenaders, Aurora Nealand and the Royal Roses, Doctor Bird and the Beak Division, The Deslondes and Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band. Abita Springs Trailhead Museum Stage, 22044 Main St. 11:30am-6:45pm. trailheadmuseum.org/busker-festival. 23-26 Painting the Night Watercolor Workshop. Master Watercolorist Paul Jackson, AWS NWS. St. Joseph Abbey, 75376 River Rd, Saint Benedict. $450. Accommodations in the retreat center are $112.50 per night. Contact Jane Brown, janebrown@bellsouth.net. 373-2305. 23-29 Zurich Classic. TPC Louisiana, 11001 Lapalco Blvd, Avondale. zurichgolfclassic.com. 24 Chamber After 5: SpringHill & TownePlace Suites. 1600 Canal St. 5:30-7:30pm. neworleanschamber.org. 26 Ogden After Hours. Nolatet. Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St. 6-8pm. ogdenmuseum.org/events. 26-28 Warm Up to Summer Event. Gift with purchase. Palm Village, A Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store, 2735 US 190, Ste. C, Mandeville. (985) 778-2547. 26-29 South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival and Destin Charity Wine Auction. destinvacation.com/ destin-deals/wine18. 27 Zoo-To-Do for Kids. Presented by Tulane Pediatrics and will celebrate the return of the lions to Audubon Zoo. 6500 Magazine St. 6-9pm. audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo. 27-28 Ronen Chen Trunk Show. Ballinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LTD, 721 Dante St. 866-4367. 27-29 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Crafts, art, food, and music. Headliners include: Sting, Sturgill Simpson, Aretha Franklin, Khalid, Bonnie Raitt, Jack Johnson, Common, Jimmy Buffett and his Acoustic Airmen among many others. nojazzfest.com. 28 Billy Idol. Beau Rivage Theatre, 875

Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS. 8pm. beaurivage. com. 28 The Aioli Dinner Supper Club. Benefits and presented by the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts. Four-course wine dinner while recreating George Rodrigueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aioli Dinner painting. Cuisine by Chef Jeff Hansell and wines by DAOU Vineyards & Winery. Home of Daniela and Elie Khoury, Lakeshore Dr, Mandeville. 6-9pm. aiolidinner.com.

May 1-19 Newman-Daily Spring Fling. Special offers for late spring getaways. destinvacation.com/destin-deals/sprg18. 1-27 New Orleans: The Founding Era. Sponsored by Whitney Bank. The Historic New Orleans Collection, 533 Royal St. Free. 523-4662. hnoc.org. 1-28 A Queen Within: Adorned Archetypes. New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins Diboll Crl. 658-4100. noma.org. 1-June 9 Vice & Virtue: An Exhibition of Sex, Saints and Sin. M.S. Rau Antiques, 630 Royal St. rauantiques.com/events. 1-June 17 Jockum NordstrĂśm: Why Is Everything A Rag. Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St. 528-3805. cacno.org. 1-July 8 Sarah Morris. Exhibition of painting, drawing and film examining the mythologies of contemporary urbanity and the city of New Orleans during its tercentennial year. Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St. 528-3805. cacno.org. 3-6 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Crafts, art, food, and music. Headliners include: Lionel Richie, Old Crow Medicine Show, Beck, LL COOL J feat. DJ Z-Trip, Sheryl Crow, Jason Isbell & the 400 Unite, Aaron Neville, Aerosmith, Anita Baker, Cage the Elephant, The Revivalists, Jack White, Steve Miller Band and many more. nojazzfest.com.

April-May 2018 27

Summer Camps

Inside Scoop 4 Zoo-To-Do. Premium cocktails, cuisine, silent auction, raffles and more. Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St. 8pm-12am. audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo. 4-5 Iris Trunk Show. Ballin’s LTD, 721

Love Swimming: As your kids gear up for a

Summer Day Camp (Ages 4-13):

fun-filled summer at camp, make sure they’re

St. Martin’s Episcopal School’s Summer

confident in the water! Love Swimming can

Day Camp programming includes American

do just that. With safe, small classes, Love

Red Cross swim instruction, a Carnival,

875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS. 8pm.

Swimming strives to provide swimmers with

visits from the Saints’ and Pelicans’ Training

beaurivage.com.

a strong foundation for a lifetime of love

Camps, yoga, Zumba Jr., scuba, sports,

and respect for the water. They believe that

arts, drama, and more. Camp sessions: June

celebration with music, food and drinks.

swimming is the best exercise for babies, kids

4-15, June 18-29, June 2-13 (no Camp July

Carreta’s Grill, 2320 Veterans Blvd,

and adults and strive to teach in a way that

4), July 16-27. George Cottage Summer

Metairie, and 1821 Hickory Ave, Harahan.

always encourages individuals to explore beyond

Camp also available for 18 months to 3-year-

carretasgrillrestaurant.com.

their fears and expectations. For classes and info,

olds on same dates. Located at St. Martin’s

call 891-4662 or visit loveswimming.com.

Episcopal School, 225 Green Acres Rd,

Sponsored by Fidelity Bank. 1515 Poydras

Metairie. stmsaints.com.

St, 5th Floor Auditorium. 11:30am-1pm.

Love Swimming.

Dante St, New Orleans. 866-4367. 5 Alanis Morissette. Beau Rivage Theatre,

5 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. All-day

8 Power Lunch. New Orleans Chamber.

neworleanschamber.org/events. Riverview Camp for Girls (Ages 6-16):

9 Business Leadership Awards

Recognized as one of the South’s favorite all-

Luncheon. Jefferson Chamber.

around summer camps for girls, Riverview’s

Hilton New Orleans Airport, 901

Christian emphasis and exciting programs are

Airline Dr, Kenner. 11:30am-1:30pm.

appreciated by both parents and campers. Riverview offers both one-, and two-week

jeffersonchamber.org. 10 The Room Shoppe at American

camp sessions, with activities including: riding

Factory Direct Grand Opening. Ribbon

(both English and Western), swimming, tennis,

cutting and celebration. 68490 Hwy 59,

ropes course, climbing tower, canoeing, golf, archery, riflery, gymnastics, cheerleading,

Mandeville. 3:30pm. afd-furniture.com. 13 Mother’s Day Home Tour. Annual

DigiCamps (Ages 12-18): Various camp

dance, flag-twirling, sports, outdoor-living skills

Old Mandeville Historic Association’s

specialities including 3D Modeling and Animation

class and more. Mother-Daughter weekend:

home tour displaying architecture

for Games, Game Programming, Creature

April 28-29. One-week session: May 27-June

from 1850 to present. 2-5pm. $20.

Creation Camp - ZBrush for Beginners, and

1. Two-weeks sessions: June 3-15, June

oldmandevillehistoricassociation.org.

Back to the Drawing Board - Animation for

17-29, July 1-13 and July 15-27. Located at

Beginners. Sessions include: 3D Modeling, June

757 County Road 614 in Mentone, Alabama.

Benefitting Buna and the Angelette

25-28; Game Programming, June 25-28, July

riverviewcamp.org.

Family. Beau Chêne Country Club, 602 N

14 Golf and Raffle for Team Buna.

Beau Chêne Dr, Mandeville. Registration,

16-19; and Back to the Drawing Board, July

Theatre Camp: St. Martin’s Theatre Camp

11:30am; lunch, 12pm; shotgun start,

23-26. All DigiCamps will be held on Delgado’s

for rising second graders and rising high

1pm. Dinner and awards following.

City Park Campus, 615 City Park Ave. dcc.edu.

school sophomores. Camp includes theatre games, music, dance acting, and two

birdeasepro.com/teambuna. 17 American Factory Direct Outdoor

Franco’s Summer Camp (Ages 3-14):

magical performances of Willy Wonka Jr. The

Furniture Grand Opening. 218 New

Field trip every week, tennis, swim and

three-week session begins June 4 and ends

Camellia Blvd, Covington. (985) 871-

more. Sessions beginning May 28 through

June 22. Located at St. Martin’s Episcopal

July 30. 100 Bon Temps Roule, Mandeville.

School, 225 Green Acres Rd, Metairie.

francosmandeville.com.

stmsaints.com.

0300. afd-furniture.com. 17 Chamber After 5: Jung Hotel. 1500 Canal St. 5:30-7:30pm. neworleanschamber.org.

Inside New Orleans

photo: BARBARA BOSSIER

16-19, or July 23-26; Creature Creation, July

18 Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Crawfish Boil. Presented by Cox Louisiana. Over 2,000 pounds of Louisiana mudbugs, beer, music and outdoor fun. 3421 North Causeway Blvd, Metairie. 5:30-8:30pm. Tickets, $50-$60. 835-3880. jeffersonchamber.org. 18-19 Lafayette 148 Pre-Fall Trunk Show. Ballinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LTD, 721 Dante St. 866-4367. 18-20 Alice in Wonderland. Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Dr, Metairie. $20-$75. jpas.org. 18-20 Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo. Art, music, food and more presented by Positive Vibrations Foundation. Line-up: Marc Broussard, Leo Nocentelli & the Funkin Truth, Deacon John & the Ivories, Alex McMurray and many more. Bayou Saint John. thebayouboogaloo.com. 18-21 Slash Into Summer. Gift with purchase. Palm Village, A Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store, 2735 US 190, Ste. C, Mandeville. (985) 778-2547. 19 Great Strides New Orleans. Benefitting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. greatstrides. cff.org. 20 La Promenade en Nouvelle Orleans. Style show, 50/50 raffle and more presented by the Jefferson Performing Arts Society Leading Ladies Guild. 885-2000. 23-27 New Orleans Wine & Food Experience. Grand tastings, promenade evenings in the French Quarter, seminar series. Benefiting the Nunez Community College Culinary Arts Program. nowfe.com. 25 Leann Rimes. Beau Rivage Theatre, 875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS. 8pm. beaurivage.com. 25-27 Bayou Country Superfest. Mercedes-Benz Superdome. bayoucountrysuperfest.com. 25-27 Greek Fest. Various locations. greekfestnola.com.

Send your event information to scoop@ insidepub.com to have it featured in an upcoming issue of Inside New Orleans. April-May 2018 29

Statement Hues

photos: SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

Q & A with Susan Currie

Inside New Orleans

THE USE OF BOLD and vibrant color is a trademark of Susan Currie, Allied ASID, CAPS, of Susan Currie Design. We sat down with Susan to chat about her designs and to get a glimpse into one of her favorite projects. Who was the first interior designer to make an impression on you?

There are a few that come to mind, but I am especially drawn to Eileen Kathryn Boyd’s work because of her bold use of color. It shows up everywhere, from upholstery to the art on the wall—and what a statement it makes! She also made a big impression on me when she spoke to designers at the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center about 10 years ago. Not only is she a great designer, but she also shared tips about how to incorporate best business practices when running an interior design studio. What are some of the things that influence you, aside from furniture and décor?

I often think of the great Southern ladies in my hometown like my grandmother Floy, who was a strong influence in my life. She taught me how to cook, sew and about so many life lessons that inspired me to become a genuine, independent and courageous Southern lady who values others and all of life’s experiences. I believe that much of Grandma Floy’s Southern grace is woven into the fabric of my designs, and that some of her grit has helped mold me

into the businesswoman I am today. And let’s not forget about those sewing skills … priceless! What are your go-to basics?

Draperies or interesting shades on windows are my go-to basic; a room looks incomplete without window coverings. Simple, flowing draperies add softness and another layer of interest to any room. So, don’t forget to include window treatments in your decorating budget! What would you tell someone who doesn’t have a big budget?

There are great ways to design a space with a small budget. This requires being resourceful and sometimes compromising on finishes. Look for sales and shop local consignment stores or online sites that resale home décor. If you’re planning a construction project that requires a larger budget, it might be better to keep socking away your money so you can do the renovation without making as many concessions. A good design professional can help you establish a realistic budget. And here’s a simple tip—take money left in your wallet at the end of the day and put it away. It’s amazing how even this can add up over time. Is there a favorite room you have designed?

Small spaces are fun to design, so I have to put

April-May 2018 31

What is one thing in modern interior design that you deplore?

It’s almost depressing when I see homes where someone tried to turn a traditional home 32

Inside New Orleans

photos: SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

my studio at the top of the list. With plenty of natural light, my upper floor was perfect. White walls and work surfaces were an essential backdrop for looking at fabrics and finishes for projects. We incorporated pops of color with the art, a bright modern sofa, and chairs to add interest. What had been an attic room with a window unit and wasp infestation was transformed into a comfortable, creative space. There’s workspace for three people, a table for planning and a comfortable place to discuss projects. The small studio also had to have a separate bathroom, so we designed one with a floating vanity and a Kohler Veil wall-mounted toilet. There’s even a closet that serves as our library, housing all of our fabric books, catalogs and samples.

into a contemporary space. Think twice before stripping away most of the architectural details, leaving a stark structure. New Orleans’ homes have so much character; I recommend embracing the home’s history and character while adding the right mix of transitional or modern pieces. You can still have a waterfall island in your kitchen to achieve the modern look you want. Is there something you will never, ever do when it comes to interior design— something you always avoid?

It’s a no-no to promise to finish a project using an unrealistic timeline. There’s so much that can happen when you are coordinating a schedule. You might find rotten wood when you open up walls that add an extra step in the renovation. Or that fabric that you loved arrives with a flaw and needs to be replaced. These are just a few ways that timelines can grow unexpectedly longer and disappoint a client. What colors do you use most?

Although my favorite color is purple, I use a lot of orange and yellow in my design work and even in my own home and studio. They are happy colors that brighten up any space! Favorite materials or textures?

I love the soft touch of linen and silk velvets to add a luxurious look and feel to a room. And I often use cut velvets as favorite way to add pattern and texture to a piece of furniture. When I am looking for a woven texture for a room, I am drawn to raw silk, which has a delicate sheen different from a dupioni silk. What is your favorite interior designrelated word?

Collected! It’s fun adding to your home, whether with pieces collected on

April-May 2018 33

memorable trips or with new artwork to combine with your existing collection. Does a room need a view?

photos: SARA ESSEX BRADLEY

Well if it doesn’t have one, create a focal point that’s beautiful to gaze at! Or add a skylight to bring in natural light! Maybe you don’t want to see the busy street outside, just the fluttering trees visible above. What qualities do you admire most in a room?

A room that’s well appointed but easy to live in! Doesn’t everyone need a comfy place to curl up with a magazine or relax with friends? It’s got to work for you and your family, including the pets. My dogs are known to be sitting on the back of the sofa with me, spotted by neighbors as they walk to Audubon Park. I made sure to pick a fabric for the sofa that’s luxe but cleans up well. I can’t imagine not having my dogs there 34

Inside New Orleans

with me on a lazy Sunday morning!

What is your favorite room in the house?

Design rule you love to break?

Don’t play it safe with neutral walls and décor. Embrace color and don’t be afraid to use vivid hues that can really make a statement and spice up any room!

It’s definitely the kitchen, the most used room in the house for most of us. That’s where my family congregates to talk, cook and enjoy each other! It’s about catching up and recreating our grandmother’s recipes for a fabulous meal.

IF YOU’RE EVER NEAR BROADWAY and River Road in New Orleans, stop and visit Lambeth House. You will be dazzled. Not by the residents—although they are beautiful people. Nor by the grounds—although they are impeccably kept. No, you’ll be amazed by the displays of art, antiquities and photographs that are more in keeping with a fine art museum than a senior residence. As impressive as these are, the real show-stopper is the collection of letters on display in the lobby. From people like Abraham Lincoln, Robert E. Lee and Napoleon, these aren’t your run-of-the mill epistles. These are close-up encounters with people who shaped the course of world history. The collection of Bill and Julie Penick, the letters were resurrected from the bank box that was their home post-Katrina after the couple moved to Lambeth House. At the time, CEO Scott Crabtree was on a mission to bring vitality and energy to the residence. “I challenged residents to make Lambeth House something everyone sees as unique—to bring culture 36

Inside New Orleans

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Scott Crabtree and Bill Penick.

Voices of History by Karen B. Gibbs

The Remarkable Letter Collection at Lambeth House

into the building,” he says. Initially, residents donated art for the gallery. Then, in July 2014, Bill Penick offered his historical letter collection for display. “Once he started sharing the significance of the authors of these letters, I told him I’d love to display them,” says Scott. “I contacted the Library of Congress and the Historical New Orleans Collection for guidelines.” “We worked together to get them archivally framed and securely mounted on the wall,” Bill explains. “Scott made the display box for the cuneiform piece. This piece was carved on terra cotta around 1953-1935 B.C.” (To put this date into perspective, Abraham was born in 2000 B.C.) All this took place in less than six months. Since then, locals, visitors and school children have visited Lambeth House to view the collection. “Scott should get a lot of credit for this, as well as displaying it,” says Bill. “It wouldn’t have happened without his involvement.”

And that wouldn’t have happened if the historyloving Penicks had not purchased that first letter, the one from Napoleon, twenty-plus years ago. Dated March 9, 1811, it was a commendation for his chief of staff and was dictated by Napoleon to his secretary during the Peninsula War. It includes an eight-word revision that was handwritten by the emperor himself. “Knowing that this letter was held, written and signed by someone who influenced history as much as Napoleon had impacted us,” says Bill. “We bought that letter thinking it was going to be the last of the last,” he laughs. But when a letter from Wellington came up for auction, Bill changed his mind. Wellington defeated Napoleon; it seemed like kismet. “That put us on the slippery slope, and the rest is history. I was hooked, and Julie was a bad influence because she encouraged me to go for it.” If ever two people were made for each other, it’s Bill and Julie. They met at the wedding of mutual friends where Bill, a law student, was asked to “please >> April-May 2018 37

escort” Julie to pre-wedding festivities. There was no chemistry between the two on that first date; they both wanted to spend the evening with other people. But by the second “please escort” event, they really hit it off. After dating a year, Bill and Julie were married. Their unconventional honeymoon—in a shelter at 13,000 feet in the Colorado Rockies—took a rather bizarre turn. For starters, it snowed the first night (which is unusual in August), and the newlyweds were in an open shelter with a roof, dirt floor and no walls. “A guy stuck his head in, and asked if we had room,” says Bill. “He had a dog with him and was very polite. He looked okay—except for the big revolver strapped to his waist. Guns were unlawful in national parks like this one,” says Bill. During the course of their introductions, Bill remarked that he and Julie were newlyweds. The man told them he was married but had recently shot and killed his wife, adding that he came to the mountains because it was his favorite place! At this point that pistol took on a whole new meaning. “He never let us out of his sight,” Bill continues. “We didn’t know

how he’d react if we tried to leave.” So, Bill and Julie shared the next three days of their honeymoon with a murderer. When the rangers finally showed up, the man gave up peacefully. And the newlyweds? You can bet they had some mighty interesting stories to tell their friends when they got home. Despite its dramatic start, life for the Penicks proceeded normally over the next few years. Bill finished law school and joined the firm of Lemle and Kelleher. Julie worked with preschoolers at the Jewish Community Center in New Orleans. They were blessed with three fine children: Casey, Ginger and Will. “When the kids were younger, we did a lot of camping around southern Louisiana and Mississippi. As they got older, we went on overnight canoeing trips with them. We also went hiking, backpacking and skiing in Colorado together,” says Bill. After the children left home, Julie and Bill traveled extensively, concentrating on trips that combined their love of art, nature and history. Hiking aficionados, they trekked throughout the United States, Switzerland, Ireland, Norway, Scotland, England, Italy and Canada. Along the way, they

photo: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

acquired artifacts to preserve their memories. Bill says, “Things reached out and grabbed us; they ‘talked’ to us, and we couldn’t let them go.” For example, there are the Zuni fetishes— miniature stone carvings of animals that represent certain powers to the Zuni Pueblo Indians. These powers, such as good crops and courage, are in turn bestowed on the recipient of the carving. The Penicks’ collection includes two baby wolves with their mother, an otter swimming on its back, a hummingbird in flight, an enormous ant, and a butterfly carved from turquoise. For Bill and Julie, these fetishes evoke memories of the Southwest more vividly than a photograph in an album. Although photographs, as collectibles, are also prized by them. “As far back as the eighties, we collected black and white, fine photographs,” says Bill. “We were thinking that when we retired, we’d open a small seasonal photography gallery in Williamstown, Massachusetts, where they lived for three years postKatrina. It didn’t pan out, but we enjoyed collecting the photos.” Some of their favorite photos are also on display at Lambeth House. As a teacher, one

of Julie’s favorites captures the essence of a oneroom Southern schoolhouse during the Depression, complete with barefoot students. Bill’s top pick is by Arthur Fellig, also known as “Weegee,” a Depressionera photographer. Entitled The Critic, it shows a New York City street lady watching two socialite women entering the Metropolitan Opera on opening day. A >>

April-May 2018 39

Inside New Orleans

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

true study in contrasts. This brings us back to the Penicks’ most extensive collection—the letters. Julie loved the letters from the two queens, Isabella and Elizabeth, both powerful women in their day. Among Bill’s favorites are two handwritten and illustrated manuscript pages from the Book of Job. Taken from a mid-13th century English Bible, the pages contain such small writing, it is barely readable. “The labor-intensive art appealed to me,” says Bill. “It represents the beautiful workmanship by a monk whose entire life was spent copying the Bible, day in and day out. He probably lost most of his sight in the process.” Another printing-related piece is part of an original Buddhist prayer scroll that was block-printed

in Chinese characters on hemp paper in Japan between the years 764 and 770. It was one of a million scrolls and a million miniature pagodas commissioned by the Japanese empress to thank Buddhist deities for their help in suppressing a major rebellion in 764 or to atone for an inappropriate liaison with a Buddhist monk. Only a small number of scrolls and pagodas have survived. The third item related to printing is an original leaf from the first edition of Hartmann Schedel’s Nuremberg Chronicle, in Latin, printed in 1493 by Anton Koberger. Considered the first encyclopedia of its time, the work is a history of the world from biblical creation to 1493. Then there’s Horatio Nelson’s bittersweet letter. Written from his ship, Victory, a month before the famous Battle of Trafalgar, Nelson penned this letter of recommendation for his secretary. Unfortunately, the secretary was killed on the deck of the ship, almost on the same spot where Nelson himself was shot two hours later. Both men died, but the letter survived. Other letters include a papal bull (a decree) from Pope Innocent II written in 1130 mediating a war between two bishops; an order by Robert E. Lee written four days before the Battle of Gettysburg, commanding his soldiers to not retaliate against unarmed and defenseless civilians; a manuscript signed by Robespierre and other leaders of the French Revolution approving the purchase of cannons during the uprising; a letter from George Washington as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, dated one month after the Declaration of Independence; and Pasteur’s letter asking a veterinarian for a rabid dog so he could present his cure for rabies at the World Academy of Science. These are only a few of the more than forty remarkable letters in the collection. Each offers a unique window into a bygone era. For those who need a little help remembering history, handouts accompany each item. Researched and written by Bill Penick himself, each explains the letter, the person who composed it and where it fits in the story of mankind. History’s calling. Visit Lambeth House and be dazzled.

The Penicksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Letter Display Buddhist prayer scroll/English Bible/ Nuremberg Chronicle Queen Elizabeth I Sumerian Cuneiform Napoleon Abraham Lincoln John Locke King John/Magna Carta Feudal times parchment King Louis XIV Peter the Great George Washington Sir Isaac Newton Frederick the Great Voltaire Admiral Nelson Prince Klemens von Metternich Maximilien Robespierre Duke of Wellington General Robert E. Lee Pope Innocent II Franklin D. Roosevelt Mikhail Gorbachev Sir Winston Churchill Nazi questionnaire re Holocaust survivor, Dr. Leon Gries Orville Wright Sun Yat-Sen Count Leo Tolstoy Mark Twain Louis Pasteur Otto von Bismarck Benjamin Disraeli Charles Darwin Giuseppe Garibaldi Charles Dickens Simon Bolivar George Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Ancient Roman and Judean coins Ancient Greek coins Sigmund Freud Albert Einstein Thomas Jefferson Queen Isabella April-May 2018 41

30 Years in Motion

by Mindy Cordell

Franco’s Athletic Club

WHERE WERE YOU ON April 17, 1988? Were you at a George

a culture and community of fitness for all generations. In the first

Michael concert, popping a mixed tape into your Walkman, or

five years of business, not only did the club grow, but so did the

putting on your leg warmers and wildest thong leotard for your

Franco family. Raising four small children gave Ron and Sandy

aerobics class? Or maybe, you weren’t even born yet.

keen insight into what families wanted and what moms needed.

Above: Franco’s on

Even if this day in history does not hold special meaning

(Did somebody say free childcare?) They added swimming pools, a

Magazine Street.

for you, it does for many of the original members of Franco’s

rock-climbing adventure room, sand volleyball courts, a skate park,

Below: Franco’s

Athletic Club. This was the day that Ron and Sandy Franco finalized

a pair of two-story waterslides and a children’s theme pool, most of

original location

the purchase of what was then the Bon Temp Racquet Club in

which remain a part of the club today.

then and now.

Mandeville. This was the day that the Franco’s fitness culture began. The Bon Temps Racquet

Pilates studios, a sports performance training room, and a 10,000

1980s. Swinging saloon-style

square-foot gymnasium. They grew their weight training and

doors opened to a smoke-filled

cardio rooms and continually updated their equipment. They

area dominated by ten racquetball

added more tennis courts, a hair salon, day spa, apparel boutique,

courts and a long bar. The club’s

Starbucks coffee shop, and library lounge. They more than tripled

orange shag carpet was covered

the square footage of their flagship club, all while maintaining

with popcorn and a plump house

a dream of extending the Franco’s brand of fitness south of Lake

cat lounged on the counter. A

Pontchartrain.

Ron and Sandy had a different vision. They didn’t want

Inside New Orleans

Sandy also added bigger and better group exercise studios,

Club was truly a reflection of the

healthy environment, it was not.

In addition to the many attractions for children, Ron and

The Way You Make Me Feel

Ron and Sandy worked hard to provide the best amenities,

to open another gym, they wanted

which helped to attract a steady stream of new members. But

to create a club for families,

the thing that kept members there, the thing that made this

something unheard of in the

club different, was something that could not be bought. “It is the

80s. Their mission was to create

feeling,” said a Franco’s member of 20 years. “It’s just a place

Clockwise from top left: Sandy and Ron Franco, 1988; Franco’s Lakeview club in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, 2005; Sandy and her children, Shea, Mackenzie, Nick and Danielle, in the Franco’s frog pool, 1993.

where you want to be. It feels classy without being pretentious - you don’t feel like you have to have

Into the Groove

Eight years later, the mission to create

a perfect body to go there. It’s welcoming, but it’s

Franco’s on the Southshore began anew. Ron

more than that. It just feels like home, and the

and Sandy’s children, now in their twenties and

people there feel like family.”

all living in New Orleans, once again provided

Ron and Sandy opened their second

inspiration. Their needs as adults reflected

location in the Lakeview area of New Orleans in

those of up-and-coming urban professionals.

the year 2000. They knew that, in order for this

Affordability and variety became important

new club to offer that feeling of belonging, they

elements of new fitness programming,

needed to let the people of this new community

technology began to play a larger role, and when

make it their own. They asked, they listened,

Ron and Sandy did open another location, it was

and they brought in the fitness programs

in one of New Orleans’ most unique and trendy

and equipment that their members wanted.

neighborhoods. Franco‘s on Magazine Street

Even without the elaborate amenities of the

opened its doors in December of 2013. Like its

Mandeville club, Franco’s Lakeview club provided

predecessors, Franco’s newest club became a

the most sought-after fitness programs in the city

destination where people could come together,

and grew to become a home-away-from-home

memories could be made, and lives could be

for its members.

changed, all in the name of health and fitness.

When Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005,

Ron and Sandy have continued to be ever-

Franco’s Lakeview took in nine feet of water and

present, working to ensure that the culture of

suffered irreparable damage. Ron and Sandy were

belonging and the feeling of family remains strong.

devastated, but worked hard to remain focused on

As they look back on the past 30 years, on the many

their Mandeville club, repairing the damage there

changes that have taken place, they get a sense that

and creating a place where people could come to

what they have created has developed a life of its

escape the destruction and to heal.

own, “a work in motion with a purpose and a plan.” April-May 2018 43

The Seasons of Sicily in New Orleans

by Tom Fitzmorris THE CULINARY CALENDAR of New Orleans

features dramatically different kinds of cooking. Our carnival season’s very name calls for having our last steaks and chops before Lent begins. And during Lent itself, it’s all about seafood. We dedicated Orleanians all know and participate in this shift. But there’s another shift in local kitchens. Before, after and between the beef and the fish is a wide range of edibles from the Italian cooks and eaters. One doesn’t get in trouble with the eating laws if one eats lots of Italian and—even more specific— Sicilian food. Indeed, it’s not a big challenge to create otherwise general Italian dishes in vegetarian forms. I was thinking about that during a recent dinner at Fausto’s. Every time I turn up there, I mull over what an interesting blend of different regional takes on Italian cooking it embodies. And it goes further still in its use of the dominant Sicilian dishes. Here is a solid representation of the thoroughly blended New 44

Inside New Orleans

Orleans-Sicilian style. And I can take a wider stride still and say that here is the best collection of Sicilian cookery to be found anywhere around town. Then it occurred to me that I have never seen a top-dozen list of the best Sicilian eats here. See? The more you think about these tastes, the better they seem. This night, it began with a big bowl of mussels. You’ve got to get your mussels while they’re around, which they are right now. Most servings of mussels are in a highly liquid sauce made of white wine, herbs, olive oil and the mussels in their shells. But the southern Italian version serves the bivalves in marinara red sauce. Mussel lovers—including me—have a disdain for that concoction. But it took only seconds for me to lock in on this tomato-based version of mussels. The only way an eater could not like Fausto’s version of the dish is if he didn’t like mussels. On my long trip home, I mentally built a number of lists that highlight the differences of the many SicilianCreole dishes served in our restaurants. Here goes. Comparison Number One. If Tony Angello’s were still around and served mussels, they wouldn’t be as good as Fausto’s because of the saucy marinara’s contribution. Tony’s food was much admired because there were many straight New Orleans flavors on his menu. Things like gumbo and oysters Bienville, along with eggplant Tina (like lasagna, the eggplant replacing pasta). Comparison Number Two: Pascal’s Manale has the city’s best fancy oyster dishes (and great raw ones, too) in addition to its more famous barbecue shrimp. But Fausto’s has them beat on the veal and chicken dishes and on the predominantly pasta piles. Fausto’s wide spread of variety in those two areas is fascinating. (Best examples: veal saltimbocca and the irresistible arancini, which may be the best Sicilian dish of them all.) Comparison Number Three: Andrea’s takes this another step forward by having seafood and major steaks and chops, all of which are filleted or butchered in house. The funny thing is that the Italian basics—pasta and red sauce being the most familiar—are just okay at Andrea’s. Comparison Number Four: Impastato’s has everybody beat in the serving of basic pasta. Its best shot is fettuccine Alfredo, the noodles for which are made in house with a thinness that results in a fantastic flavor release. Fausto’s fettuccine pasta is a

illustration: GRETCHEN ARMBRUSTER

At the Table

little too thick for my tastes. They make up for that with their sauces and other pasta shapes—particularly dishes like cannelloni. Comparison Number Five. Fausto’s is in a close tie with Vincent’s in the making of cannelloni. But then Vincent’s is a decidedly Sicilian-New Orleans Italian place, with dishes like crawfish bisque and blackened tuna. Which is my whole point. Comparison Number Six is self-contained. The new Rizzuto’s (where Tony Angello’s used to live) seems to push its steaks harder than it does the Italian section of the menu. It does both specialties equally well. Another version of this shows up when Mosca’s and Irene’s Cuisine come to mind (or palate) simultaneously. Comparison Number Seven. Really deep roots in Sicily almost always give birth to great restaurants, especially when modern ingredients and cooking techniques show up. The most intriguing is Avo, a twoyear-old trattoria whose owners go way back in New Orleans. Their culinary work shows this off. Also good in a lot of the same ways is Nuvolari’s, which during most of its history was more about New Orleans food than Italian. That has changed recently, and results in the best cooking ever in Mandeville. Comparison Number Eight. We wrap this up with rare incursions here by Italian chefs from the Northeast, which cook a lot like our guys do. Sicilian roots are as strong in New York as they are here. But they are not exactly the same, either. We saw an example of that last year when Altamura—a New York-style Sicilian place—opened and closed in the same year. To sum up this advisory, I tell you that the best eating to be found in our many Italian restaurants may be Sicilian, and perhaps one you haven’t tried yet. Andrea’s. Metairie: 3100 19th St. 504-834-8583. Avo. Uptown: 5908 Magazine. 504-509-6550.

Fausto’s. Metairie: 530 Veterans Blvd. 504-833-7121. Impastato’s. Metairie: 3400 16th St. 504-455-1545.

Irene’s Cuisine. French Quarter: 539 St Philip. 504-529-8811. Mosca’s. Westwego: 4137 US 90. 504-436-9942.

Nuvolari’s. Mandeville: 246 Girod St. 985-626-5619.

Pascal’s Manale. Uptown: 1838 Napoleon Ave. 504-895-4877. Rizzuto’s. Lakeview: 6262 Fleur de Lis Dr. 504-300-1804.

Vincent’s. Riverbend: 7839 St Charles Ave. 504-866-9313. Vincent’s. Metairie: 4411 Chastant St. 504-885-2984.

Sicilian Recipes a Veal Marsal

basic Italian menu. It’s easy Veal Marsala is one of the standbys of the so commonplace), yet when done with enough to make (which is one reason it’s ersions include mushrooms in the some care it’s delicious. Most—but not all—v sauce.

gives the sauce its distinctive The dish is named for the Sicilian wine that is made.) Marsala is a fortified, flavor. (And, in turn, the city where the wine y, but with a flavor all its own. sweet wine along the lines of port and sherr dry Marsala, which is less alcoholic However, most veal Marsala is made with nd often only—brand name.) You can and sweet. (Florio is the most common—a and that’s quite good. make the dish with sweet Marsala, though, 1/2 cup flour 2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. white pepper into medallions (scallopine) 1 lb. veal round, sliced against the grain 3 Tbs. butter

2 Tbs. chopped onions akes or portobellos 1 cup sliced mushrooms, preferably shiit 2/3 cup dry Marsala 1/2 cup demi-glace (optional)

ped

8 sprigs flat-leaf parsley, leaves only, chop

Turn oven on to 150 degrees. een two sheets of heavy plastic 1. Pound the veal medallions lightly betw flour, salt, and pepper, and sprinkle (such as in a food storage bag). Blend the and flour. veal scallops very lightly with salt, pepper t until it bubbles. Cook veal, 2. Heat 2 Tbs. of the butter in a heavy skille te on each side. Remove to a two or three pieces at a time, for about a minu more butter to the skillet to finish the platter and keep it warm in the oven. Add rest of the veal. s to the skillet, and cook 3. When all the veal is cooked, add the onion to a boil, whisking the pan to until transparent. Add the Marsala and bring

dissolve the browned bits from the veal. allow to simmer until the 4. Add the mushrooms. Lower the heat and thickened. mushrooms are tender and the sauce has rn to a simmer, then add the 5. Stir in the demi-glace if you have it. Retu er. parsley. Adjust seasonings with salt and pepp all juices that may have 6. Return the veal to the skillet, along with with the sauce. Serve on warm plates, collected on the platter. Stir lightly to coat perhaps with polenta. Serves four.

April-May 2018 45

At the Table Pasta Milanese with Pompano

Get two older New Orlean s-Italian ladies together, and you’ll have an argum ent about which is the righ t way to make “Milanese,” the nam e for one of the main dishes traditionally served in New Orleans Italian homes on St. Joseph’s Day. Both ladies will hate this recipe—unless it’s served on a day other tha n St. Joseph’s, and if it’s not called “Milanese.” Then they’ll lov e it, and they’ll say it remind s them of Milanese. Keep you r mouth shut. The traditional fish used for Milanese is the stronglyflavored fresh Mediterran ean sardine, a fish about six inches long. It’s good but hard to find. I substitute local pom pano, which has the flavor to car ry the dish and adds a tou ch of class—if not authenticity—to the dish. The traditional pas ta shape is bucatini: the thic kest kind of spaghetti, or the smallest that has a hole run ning through it, depending on how you look at it. The top ping is bread crumbs, rem iniscent of the sawdust of St. Joseph .

the heads off the pompan

3 Tbs. cup olive oil

5 green onions, tough par

ts removed, chopped

4 anchovies, crushed

1 28-oz. can Italian plum tomato purée 2 small whole pompano, cleaned 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1/4 cup white wine

1/4 cup pine nuts

1/4 cup dried currants

1 Tbs. chopped fresh ore

1 cup bread crumbs

gano

called perciatelli)

1 tsp. Italian seasoning 1. Cut the fennel bulb from top to bottom along the wide dimension. Cut off the inner root core and cut off the tough top parts, leaving abo ut three inches of the stems . Chop coarsely.

2. Heat the olive oil in a larg e saucepan and in it sauté the fennel and green onions until they soften. Add 46

Inside New Orleans

k another minute. 3. Add the tomato purée and the oregano and bring to a simmer. Cook unc overed for about 20 minutes. 4. In the meantime, cut the

1 bunch fennel

1 lb. bucatini pasta (also

crushed anchovies and coo

the

tails and (if you like)

o. Heat the extra-virgin oliv e oil in a large skillet over hig h heat. Brown the crushed garlic cloves, then add the pompano. Brown the pompano on both sides, coo king about two minutes on each side. Remove the gar lic and discard. 5. Add the white wine and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and add a cup of the tomato sauce from the other pot. Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower to a simmer. Agitate the pan to slosh the sauce inside the fish. Cover the pan and cook for four to six minutes. Remove the fish from the pan. Cut out the fillets but leave the skin inta ct. Keep warm. 6. Pour the tomato sauce into the pan you just cooked the fish in. Add the pine nuts, currants, oregan o, and salt and pepper to tas te. Bring the sauce up to a light simmer.

7. Cook the pasta in a larg e pot of water at a rolling boil with a tablespoo n of salt in it. Cook for six minutes, then drain. Toss the pasta with the sauce in the pan to coat. Serve alongside a pompano fillet. Sprinkle bread crumbs mixed with the Italian seasoning over everything. Serves four.

Wine Cellar by Bill Kearney

THERE IS LITTLE DOUBT that the rosé phenomena that has struck the American winedrinking world has been a game changer that growers from all over the globe are trying to tap into. Indeed, for many restaurants, rosé has gone from a seasonal wine that was primarily consumed during summer months to a yearround category that many people enjoy. These wines are relatively simple and almost cheap compared to many other wines found on a retail shelf or on a restaurant wine list. Producers do not have to store the wines or to wait for them to mature, as rosé wines are primarily meant to be consumed in their youth. No aging needed, and an immediate return on investment creates a popular item for most any producer.

drinking white wines such as chardonnay and pinot grigio. The distinctive and unique characteristics of white wines are as stylistically dissimilar as red wines and will provide countless hours of fun. I take a moment to acknowledge a personal flaw in that I am not a fan of either riesling or gewürztraminer as I find them to be either sweet or with slight hints of ethanol that I am genetically disposed to find without merit. Having said that, most sommeliers think these wines are extraordinary, and I encourage you to follow their suggestions and not mine. One area where we do find common ground is in my desire to find new and interesting wines for summer drinking. While

As a result, we are now finding rosé wines from almost every conceivable wine region imaginable, and they are being made with an ever-increasing number of grape varietals. While rosé aficionados will invariably turn to wines from the Provence region of France, you can find rosé from across the globe and originating from pinot blanc, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and a plethora of other white wine varietals including albariño, chenin blanc, rousanne, riesling and gewürztraminer. These alternative styles of white wines create a unique and different wine consumption experience and are often ignored by the American wine drinker. It is often said that Rhône Valley white wines can be hard to distinguish from their red counterparts when being consumed without the taster knowing their color. We often take time to know the difference between red wines like merlot, cabernet and pinot noir, yet we stop after

Puligny and Chassagne Montrachet along with Meursault are truly my favorite chardonnay wines for year-round consumption, I do like to venture into Sancerre and Chablis for other French adorations. As noted earlier, Rhône Valley white blends can be some of the most interesting and unique white wine drinking moments. The fascinating components of these wines are unlike any other I have found. The key point that I am trying to get across is that there are countless styles and types of white wines for summer drinking that are generally not overly priced and can be great fun. In addition to the many different wine regions of France, Italy holds endless hours of white wine pursuit for those who are looking for interesting and different grape varietals as well as blends. White wine is so much more than chardonnay and pinot grigio, and I encourage you to dedicate this summer to expanding those boundaries.

Summer Wines

April-May 2018 47

by Joey Kent

Le commerce que les Indiens du Mexique font avec les François au port de Missisipi copperplate engraving with watercolor by FrançoisGérard Jollain; between 1719 and 1721; view at The Historic New Orleans Collection’s New Orleans, the Founding Era exhibit until May 27. 48

WHEN LAST WE LEFT the Le Moyne brothers, they had celebrated the first Mardi Gras in America from their flotilla on the Mississippi and were headed further upstream to confirm the identity of the river they had just claimed for France. Ash Wednesday fell on March 4 in 1699, and the winds that had plagued the explorers thus far were nowhere to be found. After Mass was celebrated and ashes distributed, Pierre Le Moyne (d’Iberville), erected a cross at the camp he had named Mardi Gras Point, and the group took to the oars for their journey north. In those days before GPS and Google Maps, Pierre had to rely on hand-drawn charts and written accounts from the earlier explorations of Réne-Robert Cavelier (de La Salle) and his associate, Henri de Tonti. What Pierre didn’t know at the time was that his intel was bogus, copies of copies rife with errors.

Inside New Orleans

In what has to be Louisiana’s first case of pre-internet “fake news,” the exploration had already wasted countless hours trying to validate the Mississippi claim based on loose facts supplemented with madeup musings attributed to real people. With each passing mile, Pierre was no more confident he had succeeded in his mission for King Louis XIV, but he couldn’t turn back until he knew for sure. The journey was slow going. The mighty river’s current picked up, and with it, more drift and debris. Pierre’s brother, Jean Baptiste (de Bienville), scouted out front in his canoe to warn of approaching danger, and after a few days of brutal practice, the group began to find their rhythm. The oarsmen learned to hug the turns and avoid the faster waters, and soon, sightings of homemade rafts and canoes gave indication of human activity, although they had yet to

photo credit: THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 1952.3

The Mississippi—A Claim, False Claims & Acclaim

spot another living soul. In a bid to extend their meager rations, alligator was added to the Canadians’ kill-and-consume list when other game proved elusive, and “Choot ‘em!” was most probably first heard in the land. Five days on, as fatigue and discouragement were about to take their toll, the flotilla turned a bend in the river and at last spotted two Indians in a pirogue. A chase eventually led them to the chief of the Annochy tribe, where peace was made and goods exchanged. Pierre inquired about the Bayougoulas, a tribe of Indians he’d encountered weeks earlier outside Mobile Bay that had firsthand knowledge of La Salle and Tonti, and was told their village was several days further along. More bartering secured the services of a young Annochy to act as a guide when the expedition continued in the morning. Twenty miles upriver, the guide showed them the portage the Indians used to access a large lake (Pontchartrain) that he said eventually led back to the Gulf. Pierre made note of this and planned to explore the route on the group’s return downriver. The next day, two pirogues of Indian men and women were spotted and determined to be members of the Ouachas and the sought-after Bayougoulas. Goods were traded for corn with the Ouachas, and the Bayougoulas departed to inform their village of the approaching French. The next day, Pierre and his officers were received with much fanfare by the chief of the Bayougoulas, and the peace pipe and reserves of brandy were put to good use. Also in attendance was a delegation of Mongoulachas led by their stone-faced chief, who strolled in wearing a blue serge French coat he claimed to have received from none other than Henri de Tonti himself. You’d think at that point Pierre had all the proof he needed to assert that the river La Salle and Tonti had descended and the one he and his men had just ascended from the Gulf were one and the same, but this firsthand account wasn’t matching up with the written account of Father Zenobe Membré, a priest who had accompanied the descent down the Mississippi. A priest! He spoke of the river forking at one point and of choosing the right fork, but according to all the Indians encountered thus far by the Le Moyne expedition, the river they were now on made no such fork. It was also noted that the names and locations of tribal villages encountered were all wrong. Pierre’s heart sank at these assertions, and he vowed to press on further upriver in search of additional proof rather than risk humiliation and shame before the King of France if his claim were proven to be false. So, despite having smoked generously of the ceremonial peace pipe (or perhaps because of having done so), Pierre made the tough call to press on to the village of the Houmas five days upriver. A great cross >> April-May 2018 49

Thirty-two point compass, between 1700 and 1725, made of brass, glass and paper, can be viewed at The Historic New Orleans Collection’s New Orleans, the Founding Era exhibit until May 27.

cornstalk on the bank that had been stripped of its leaves and upon the base of which was heaped the heads of fish, bear and other game as offerings to the gods for the reward of a bountiful hunt. Lieutenant Sauvole noted this important marker in his journal, recording the words “Baton Rouge” to describe the red stick that marked what is now the site of the capital city of Louisiana. At last, the explorers found themselves among the Houmas. Introductions were made, provisions stocked, and the peace pipe made the rounds again. These Indians, too, professed knowledge of La Salle

Inside New Orleans

trying to validate journals written for glory more than accuracy. The Mississippi was secured for King Louis XIV of France, and the King and history would join in acclaiming the victory. Suffice it to say, the supporting artifacts were bargained from the chief, and a course was set the next day for the return. As promised, Pierre split from the flotilla on the way down, taking a canoe through what is now Lake Maurepas, Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne and arriving back at their ships anchored in the Gulf within eight hours of the rest of the group. Now the task became to establish a fort

compass photo courtesy: THE STEWART MUSEUM, 1999.7 A-D

resplendent with the French coat of arms was erected at the campsite the next morning, and the expedition took to the river once more, this time in the company of the chief of Bayougoulas, who would serve as their guide and make introductions. Soon, the explorers reached the dividing line between the hunting grounds of the Bayougoulas and the Houmas. The chief pointed to a lone red

and Tonti, and backed the assertion that the Mississippi was one river without a sizeable fork at this end. Without further proof, however, Pierre made plans to continue upriver in search of the Coroas or Yazous and see what they had to say. It was then that the chief of the Bayougoulas, impressed by Pierre’s diligence and dogged determination to find the truth at all cost, made a little, tiny confession. He cleared his throat and announced to the assembled French Canadians that the chief of the Mongoulachas not only had a nifty coat that once belonged to Henri de Tonti but also was in possession of a letter Tonti left behind for La Salle or those sent to prove his route. At this point, the large intake of the peace pipe by all parties is probably the only thing that saved the chief from suffering the full brunt of the explorers’ wrath that evening. The following day, a beeline was made back downriver. When confronted, in his defense, the chief of the Mongoulachas offered a meek, “I had to be sure you guys weren’t Spaniards. We don’t exactly get along.” Yeah, whatever. With that said, the chief produced a crucifix, some letters and a gun, all gifts from Tonti along with the precious letter. I will use the lack of remaining space as my excuse for not reprinting the thoughts and expressions of the Le Moyne party that followed as Pierre read from the letter and acclaimed in great detail that their mission had been accomplished, despite having wasted weeks

somewhere along the Mississippi to solidify the French presence there and protect this newly acquired asset. Lieutenant Sauvole described to Pierre a patch of land he’d seen on the left bank as they had descended, a spot where the river didn’t overflow into the marshy surrounds. The bend in the river, he related, would afford good visibility of approaching ships and was defensible. Pierre pondered this a moment, but quickly nixed the idea as he didn’t have time to trek back upriver and provisions were running low. He preferred to stay close to their ships, so the explorer began to assess the options close at hand. The group made their way back toward Pensacola from whence they’d started their journey, Pierre sounding the depths of streams and inlets without success until they were once more upon the area around Biloxi Bay. At this point, everyone was pretty beat, so the next spot that reasonably met the criteria for a fort was chosen in haste, and the work of clearing the land begun. Fort Maurepas was slapped together at the site of what is now Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and, thus, the colony of La Louisiane was added to the holdings of New France, a huge swath of North America that included Canada, the Great Lakes and now land all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico. The next eighteen years would prove costly and painful in the maintenance of this toe hold near the Mississippi, and looking back, Pierre would express regret at not heeding his lieutenant’s advice. In 1718, Pierre’s sibling Jean Baptiste would return to Sauvole’s spot some 125 miles up from the mouth of the Mississippi and select the area for a better outpost. We’ll examine the results of that expedition in greater detail in the next installment. Stay tuned. April-May 2018 51

“New Orleans’ 300-year history is full of piety and decadence; it is a city that thrives on extremes,” Rebecca explains. “It is this dichotomy that make this city so rich and alive, from the magnificent churches to the rowdiness of Mardi Gras, it is a place that both inspires and amazes.” ABOUT WILLIAM RAU AND M.S. RAU ANTIQUES

Vice & Virtue: An Exhibition of Sex, Saints & Sin In celebration of New Orleans’ tricentennial, M.S. Rau Antiques presents Vice & Virtue: An Exhibition of Sex, Saints & Sin. The new exhibit, which will explore the universal struggle between virtue and vice, is free and open to the public April 7 to June 9, 2018. “As a fourth-generation antiques dealer and native of New Orleans, I am truly excited about the premise of this exhibition,” curator Rebecca Rau says. “It has been very interesting to re-contextualize objects from our collection and view them through the lens of New Orleans’ history.” The unique exhibit features over 60 pieces of art, antiques and historical items that give a nod to New Orleans’ Catholic heritage and its infamous culture of celebration, indulgence and excess. “We have a series of paintings that depict Cardinals in the midst of mildly impious activities,” says Rau. “These somewhat incriminating but wholly charming works include A Good Smoke by Georges Croegaert, in which a cardinal lounges in his clergy costume, indulging on a fine cigar.”

Considered one of the world’s foremost experts on 18th- and 19th-century antiques and fine arts William Rau is President, CEO and third-generation owner of M.S. Rau Antiques of New Orleans. Over 106 years old, M.S. Rau Antiques is one of the largest premier fine art and antiques galleries in the world. Rau’s extensive knowledge of the international art market has not only allowed him to help clients cultivate museum quality collections, but it has also afforded him the opportunity to amass the remarkable and important works in this comprehensive exhibition. Exhibit on display from April 7– June 9, Mon - Sat, 9:00am – 5:00pm. Viewer discretion advised

“The exhibit is comprised of a comprehensive collection of objects that allow us to juxtapose saints with sinners. Beginning with works that celebrate the innocence of youth, the exhibition continues to expose more dramatic and vulgar items, such as a “love chair” used by Edward VII in a Parisian brothel in the 1880’s and 90’s.” Other pieces on display include a painting by Jean-Léon Gérôme depicting the highly charged mythological tale of Leda and the Swan, a fascinating, macabre iron “shame mask” used in the Middle Ages to punish offenders, and a collection of walking sticks including a prostitute’s whip cane, a gambler’s tap dice cane, and a prohibition flask cane. 52

Inside New Orleans

Rau Antiques is located at 630 Royal Street in New Orleans, 9am to 5pm. 504-273-7391. rauantiques.com

Home & Garden 2018

Home & Garden Resources As we turn our attention to the gardens around us that are springing to life in the coming weeks, have fun! Whatever

American Factory Direct

Eclectic Home

985-871-0300

866-6654

afd-furniture.com

eclectichome.net

Arabella Interiors

Eduardo J. Jenkins Landscape

985-727-9787

Architect

225-343-0571 edjenkins.com

new flourish you have planned for your

Artistry of Light

outdoor living space, let it bring hours

225-247-8963

Exterior Designs by Beverly Katz

landscapelightinglouisiana.com

866-0276

of enjoyment to you and your family. In this section, we have gathered some area experts to turn to for inspiration. It is springtime!

exteriordesignsbev.com Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights 814-4964 bevolo.com Doerr Furniture 947-0606 doerrfurniture.com

French Mix by Jennifer DiCerbo Interiors 985-809-3152 frenchmixinteriors.com

April-May 2018 53

Home & Garden 2018

Resource Guide GNO Property Management 528-7028 gnoproperty.com Greige Home Interiors 985-875-7576 greigehome.com Jennifer Rice 985-892-1478 jenniferrice.net K2 Realty LLC 985-234-9930 K2realtyla.com Mullin Landscape Associates 275-6617 MullinLandscape.com NOLA Lending a Division of Fidelity Bank

nolalending.com Outdoor Living Center 985-893-8008 outdoorlivingcenter.com Pan American Power 985-893-1271 PanAmericanPower.com Southland Plumbing 835-8411 southlandplumbing.com Susan Currie Design, LLC 237-6112 susancurriedesign.com Triton Stone Group 738-2228 tritonstone.com

Inside New Orleans

IN The Bookcase by Terri Schlichenmeyer

The Grumpy Gardener by Steve Bender NORMALLY, YOU’D NEVER ALLOW IT. Holes in your yard? No way! Trenches near your garage? Nuh-uh, except in the spring, when you start thinking about hostas in those holes, tomatoes in the trenches, daisies in the divots. Oh, how you love a garden, and with The Grumpy Gardener, by Steve Bender, you’ll get a shovelful of ideas. Larry, Mary, Geri, quite contrary, how does your garden grow? If you’re frowning now, remember that even the most dedicated, experienced gardener has a dud now and then, but there are ways to minimize that. Steve Bender has ideas. The first thing you’ll want to know is your zone, which is not at all newagey. Growing zones are delineated areas that indicate average low winter temperatures; you’ll need to know your zone to know where a plant might thrive or die. On that last note, you’ll find the “Grumpy” in Grumpy Gardener. There are many garden and landscape plants that Bender wishes would just die. Here, find a list of the Five Most Awful Plants; reasons why you don’t want a river birch, cottonwood, or weeping willow in your yard; and why you should never move next door to someone who adores bamboo. If you hate critters in your garden, learn what bulbs they won’t eat, what they like and how to get rid of pests altogether. Read how to use a chainsaw the Grumpy way, and how to get your plants ready for winter. Find a way to love dandelions and know what not to plant if you have pets. Teach your teens to grow kale, then send them to college with plants that thrive on neglect. Scratch the surface on poison ivy mythology; see why sycamore trees are good if you’re a kid; and learn why kudzu could become more than just a weed someday. Get useful lawn ideas, tips on fertilizer use, mulches to avoid, and organic methods to embrace. And finally, relax, says Bender; a dying plant is God’s way of telling you to try again … Will silver bells or cockle shells grace your yard this year? Or do you struggle to keep the lawn green? Either way, you can’t help but laugh about it when you put The Grumpy Gardener between those greenish-brown thumbs. And yet—don’t be thinking this is all fun and geraniums. There’s humor inside this book, but author Steve Bender is serious about gardening, planting and caring for greenery. The advice you’ll get is sound and useful, including sidebars in a Q-and-A format and chapters on things that may seem only barely garden-related until you need to know them. Also helpful is when Bender recommends alternatives—what to grow, for instance, if your Minnesota rhubarb hates Texas climate—and better ideas to make your garden glow. Much of this book is set in Zone 8 (the South), so if you’re itching to plant, get The Grumpy Gardener. You’ll really dig it. April-May 2018 55

Home & Garden 2018

home trends 2

1. Abstract framed print, $275. Susan Currie Design, 237-6112 or susan@susancurriedesign.com. 2. Annie Sloan Paint, $36.95. Creative Finishes Studios, Metairie & New Orleans, 909-9028. 3. Wood and vinyl playsets, starting at $1499. Ultimate Outdoor Play, Metairie, 8285

6156. 4. Charming 31â&#x20AC;? Iron Tricycle Planter, $49. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 985-893-8008.

Inside New Orleans

6 5. Eloquence loveseat in dove velvet with worn oak finish. Greige Home Interiors, Covington, 985-875-7576.

6. Exquisite monograms on our luxury linens. The Linen Registry, Metairie, 831-8228. 7. Beverly can help you create an outside room in your backyard! Exterior Designs by Beverly

Katz, 866-0276 or exteriordesignsbev. com. 8. Michael Aram’s bedding, throws and pillows, handmade using silks, cottons and soft furs in serene colors. Arabella, Mandeville, 985-727-9787. 9. Lucas+McKearn La Fleur Table Lamp, $325. Southland Plumbing, Metairie, 835-8411. 10. Buffet offers generous storage with a European accent; finish blends soft cream, ochre and gray tones; gray painted interior; 64” W x 20” D x 36” H. American Factory Direct Furniture, Covington, 985-871-0300.

Flourishes 1

7 1. Peony flower porcelain diffuser. Hilltop Shoppe, 533-9670. 2. Six of Saturns Live, Vol. 1 available for pre-order online at Ace Hotel Shop (shop.acehotel.com), $30. Proceeds benefit Preservation Hall Foundation. Ace Hotel, 900-1180. 3. Cici custom-made dining table in Antique White finish. The French Mix by Jennifer DiCerbo, Covington, 985-809-3152. 4. Personalized insulated steel drinkware, printed in-store, $25.95 to $29.95. Auraluz, Metairie, 888-3313 or shopauraluz.com. 5. Created by Herend specifically for Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Royal Garden design is a modern interpretation of Herendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic Queen Victoria pattern, salad plate, $135; dinner plate, $330. Friend & Company, 866-5433. 6. Lampe Berger purifying and perfuming lamps, $60. Auraluz, Metairie, 888-3313 or shopauraluz.com. 7. Oak veener chest with cast resin wing design. Eclectic Home, 866-6654.

Inside New Orleans

10 11

8. Lotus-shaped gold centerpiece bowl, $315. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, 985-624-4045. 9. Antoineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant 175th Anniversary Celebration Cookbook, $39.95. Antoineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant, 581-4422. 10. Angel with Watermelon by Lorraine Gendron, $100. Judy at the Rink, New Orleans, 891-7018. 11. Writing instruments created with wood from a 150-year-old southern live oak in Audubon Park. One-ofa-kind, limited writing utensils in 24K gold. Large pen, $29.98; small pen, $15.98. Nola Pens, woodmenfurniture.com or 258-3916. 12. Life-size skull carved entirely from rock crystal by famed jeweler and sculptor Andreas von Zadora-Gerlof, $125,000. M.S. Rau Antiques, 224-5132. April-May 2018 59

INside Look 1

2 1. 14k rose gold morganite and white diamond ring, $1,275. 14k rose gold morganite and white diamond drop earrings, $3,975. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Metairie, 832-0000. 2. Ice-blue, scoopneck short cocktail dress with ruffle sleeve, $174; black Tahitian pearls, $600. Ballinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ltd., 8664367. 3. Brahmin large duxbury handbag, $355. Capri at The Beau Rivage, Biloxi, 228-386-7471. 4. Lightweight mesh bomber jacket, front pockets, $76; Glyder Pure Yoga Leggings, $89; A-line fit 4

tank with high-neck and crochet back detail, $50. Francoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Magazine, 218-4637. 5. Executive Collection Tailored Fit 100% cotton seersucker suit, $398. Jos. A. Bank; Mandeville, New Orleans, and Metairie, 620-2265. 6. Diamond and sapphire Art Deco earrings, $3,700. Symmetry Jewelers & Designers, 861-9925.

Inside New Orleans

April-May 2018 61

Inside New Orleans

INside Look 2

1 3

5 7

1. Carmen Sol Tonino Wedge, $155 and Maria Flat Sandal, $95. Little Miss Muffin, New Orleans, 482-8200. 2. Patterned swim diaper, $10. Love Swimming, New Orleans, 504-891-4662. 3. Jaydea sports bra shown in Gumbo Limbo, $54; high-riser weekender crop shown in Gumbo Limbo, $108. Palm Village â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Lilly Pulitzer Store, Mandeville, 985-788-2547. 4. Yellow gold, platinum, diamond and blue topaz ring. Adlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 523-5292. 5. Three-tier beaded raffia earrings, $36. The Shop at Longue Vue, 488-5488. 6. Blue KikiSol swim cover up,

$38. Chateau Drugs, Metairie, 889-2300. 7. Hand-crafted 18k rose gold earrings featuring kunzite, aquamarine, morganite and diamonds. Aucoin Hart Jewelers, Metairie, 834-9999. 8. Octavia sunglasses in Plume to Champagne 24K, $315. Optical Shoppe, Metairie, 310-1726. 9. Mock scuba top and classic capri pant in royal blue. Kevan Hall Sport by Beth DePass, bethdepass.com. April-May 2018 63

There’s so much power in a woman. From Girls Scouts to executives, I believe women inspire other women to be their best in every capacity of their lives whether they are sitting with them at a conference table or reading about them in Inside New Orleans’ Women IN Business. Within the following pages, you will learn about some successful women who dared to believe not only in themselves, but also in their businesses and their personal dreams. As you finish reading their powerful stories, I hope they will inspire you to pursue your dreams too. Each of them is certainly an inspiration to us here at Inside New Orleans. —Lori Murphy, publisher Inside New Orleans

Inside New Orleans

table of contents 66 Eclectic Home 66 The Power of G.I.R.L. 67 Fidelity Bank’s P.O.W.E.R. 68 Ingrid Rinck Sensible Meals   70 Susan Currie Susan Currie Design 71 Sandy Franco Franco’s on Magazine 72 Patrice Senac Arabella Interiors 73 Susan Zackin Z Event Company and The Event Glossary 74 Mona Vinturella Southland Plumbing Supply and Outdoor Living Center 75 Jennifer DiCerbo The French Mix by Jennifer DiCerbo Interiors 76 Allison Smith Mitchell, PHR, SHRM-CP Beau Rivage Resort & Casino 77 Lee McKee The Linen Registry 77 Maria Pote Longue Vue House and Gardens 78 Nancy Bui Prim + Posh Natural Nails 78 Peggy Rodriguez, RN, BSN everyBody wellness 79 Jessica Mayhall Creative Finishes Studios 79 Debby Gaudet, SAG-AFTRA Debby Gaudet’s Screen Actors Studio 80 Michelle Swanner Yenni Chateau Golf & Country Club 80 The New Orleans Steamboat Company 81 Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC CPA Realty 81 New Orleans Chamber April-May 2018 65

Girl Scout Gold Award recipients Jazmine Pittman, Heather O’Mahoney and Alexa Wen Fisher.

The Power of G.I.R.L.

In celebration of Women IN Business, it’s a natural fit to celebrate the

best leadership development program for girls, grades K to 12, in Southeast Louisiana—Girl Scouts Louisiana East. Girl Scouts prepares every G.I.R.L. to practice leadership––uniquely encouraging girls to cultivate grit, problemsolving, risk-taking and leading with empathy. Girl Scouts Louisiana East is passionate about a commitment to girls, ensuring that girls take their rightful places as leaders in their communities, their country and the world. The current recruitment campaign is Power of G.I.R.L., the goal being to unify the movement’s belief in the power of every G.I.R.L.—both girl and adult. GO-GETTER: Determined to succeed. Bold. Honest. Goal-oriented. Can-do mentality. Ambitious. Lifelong learner. INNOVATOR: Creative. Thinks outside the box. Always looking for a new approach. Visionary. Uses resources wisely. Original. Do-it-yourselfer. Experimenter. RISK-TAKER: Not afraid to try new things. Courageous. Strong. Breaks the mold. Steps up. Discoverer. Pioneer. Embraces the unfamiliar. LEADER: Confident. Knows how to get the job done. Responsible. Committed to making the world a better place. Empathetic. Advocate. Empowers others. For far too long, Girl Scouts have been too modest when talking about the benefits of Girl Scouting. Girl Scouts are prepared for a lifetime of leadership. In fact, 90 percent of all female U.S. astronauts, 80 percent of all female tech leaders, 76 percent of female U.S. Senators and 100 percent of female U.S. Secretaries of State were empowered by Girl Scouts. To learn more about the GSLE, visit gsle.org.

The highest award in Girl Scouting is the Girl Scout Gold Award. Last year, seven Girl Scouts from Louisiana were honored at a reception and pinning ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion. To earn the Girl Scout Gold Award, a young woman must demonstrate ability and skill in goal-setting, planning, putting values into action, and relating to the community, which includes planning and executing a community service project with a minimum of 80 hours of work that reaches beyond the Girl Scout organization and provides a sustainable, lasting benefit to the girl’s larger community. 66

Inside New Orleans

Fidelity P.O.W.E.R. Partners Top Row: LaToya Ratcliff, Jackie Bryant, Lori Pausina, Liz Broekman; Bottom Row: Tiffany Graff, Penny Hamilton, Ramona Sanders, Casey Fletcher

Fidelity Bank Offers Customized Program for Women Business Owners Fidelity Bank, a full-service community bank serving southeast Louisiana

are one of fastest-growing sectors in the economy. “Our mission at Fidelity Bank

and its mortgage division NOLA Lending Group has furthered its commitment

is to be HERE FOR GOOD; providing opportunities for like-minded women to

to business banking with the launch of P.O.W.E.R, Potential of Women

connect, learn and grow is just one more way we live our mission,” says Liz

Entrepreneurs Realized. Fidelity’s P.O.W.E.R. program introduces educational

Broekman, Director of P.O.W.E.R at Fidelity Bank.”

resources, networking opportunities and facilitated connections combined with a wide array of financial products exclusively for entrepreneurial women. “Women business owners are starting companies at a faster rate than

Membership in P.O.W.E.R. is offered to all women business owners who bank with Fidelity Bank. There is no cost to be a part of the new program. Through the P.O.W.E.R program, Fidelity Bank and NOLA Lending Group will

ever—five times the national average. They are changing the landscape of

host networking events throughout the year. P.O.W.E.R clients may also take

our community. We want to support them in reaching their own potential,”

advantage of the bank’s custom website, fidelitybankpower.com. The site serves

says Katie Crosby, Chairman of the Board of Fidelity Bank. “P.O.W.E.R. gives

as a community resource, listing events featuring women business owners,

women in business all the tools they need to succeed, flourish and spur

articles and other information relating to women business owners.

revenue growth for their business.” The bank highlights and features P.O.W.E.R members in their advertising, hosts events at members’ places of business and offers the opportunity to participate in the P.O.W.E.R Plug—a monthly podcast feature that may be listened to at fidelitybankpower.com or downloaded in your app store. Between 2007 and 2016, the number of women-owned firms increased by 45 percent, according to the 2016 State of Women Owned Businesses Report by American Express OPEN. There are over 9 million women-owned business

To learn more about P.O.W.E.R. contact Liz Broekman at 504-739-9284,

in the United States contributing 1.4 trillion in sales. Women business owners

lizbroekman@bankwithfidelity.com or visit fidelitybankpower.com. April-May 2018 67

Ingrid Rinck If you’ve haven’t heard of Sensible Meals, you will soon. It’s the fastest-growing and largest meal-prep company in the country, and it’s based in Mandeville. The business was started

cheese or waffles topped with Nutella.” The company has just finished building another facility in Hammond. Sensible Meals provides live assistance to its

by 36-year-old entrepreneur Ingrid Rinck. A personal trainer

customers from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Central Time), seven days a

with over 20 years of experience in the health and fitness

week, 365 days a year. It is the only meal-prep company that

industries, Ingrid explains, “My clients would ask me how to

does this. “We have staff available to answer your questions

eat and how to lose weight, and I would give them written

within an hour. Whether it’s a billing question or you need

meal plans. But there was only so much I could do since I

motivation, you can contact us through our social media

couldn’t watch everything that they ate.”

sites (@sensiblemeals) on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.”

In February 2014, Rinck received the devastating news

As a local company, it’s important to Rinck to support

that her young son had Type 1 Diabetes. She says, “It’s a very

Louisiana and the regional economy. “All of our employees,

serious disease. He’s insulin dependent, and his diet has to

even our vendors—the people from whom we buy our

be regulated or it can be life threatening. So, I made the

food products—are local. We try to keep our resources in

decision that our whole family was going to change our diet,

Louisiana rather than buy from the big national brands.”

as well. That meant I really had to follow my own advice and weigh, measure and portion our food properly.” Eating healthy, controlled portions, Rinck quickly lost

The breakdown of Sensible Meals’ workforce is 98 percent women, of whom 90 percent are moms. As a formersingle mother of three, Rinck says, “I don’t hire people based

the weight she gained while pregnant with her daughter—

on their résumé. I hire them based on their work ethic. If

and an additional 45 pounds. Her clients, desirous of similar

you’re a single mom, I know that you’re going to be the

results, asked if she would cook for them. And that’s how

hardest worker because you have no one else to rely on.” Rinck never imagined herself at the helm of such a

Sensible Meals was born. Sensible Meals offers fresh, affordable (15 meals for

large enterprise and doesn’t take her success lightly. “This is

five days costs $80 to $120), chef-prepared meals made in

a passion project, and it started because of my son’s illness.

a licensed, certified and insured facility with an A+ health

I tell him every day that his tragedy is turning into triumph,

rating. Rinck describes the food: “The meals are half diet

not only for our family, but for people all over the country.

food and half fun food. We give you things like macaroni and

It’s changing people’s lives for the better.”

Sensible Meals has 11 easy pick-up sites including Metairie and Westwego. Shipping available for $15. Learn more about Sensible Meals at eatsensiblemeals.com. April-May 2018 69

who work at Franco’s. “They are the ones who interface with members, develop relationships and carry out our vision. We try to attract and hire dynamic, energetic people who are passionate about fitness and changing lives, whose positive energy is contagious, and most importantly, people who are about the bigger picture—helping others and their community. One of those people is Noel Teen, the general manager of Franco’s on Magazine Street. “We are so fortunate to have someone like Noel running the show; she and her team totally fit the bill of those special people we look for,” says Franco. Noel echoes Franco: “We want every single person who comes to Franco’s to feel like it’s their second home. We know that walking into a gym for the first time can be very intimidating, so we go out of way to make sure they feel welcomed and comfortable—not just the first time, but every time they walk in the door. Keeping true to its mission, Franco’s on Magazine added a beautiful new yoga studio this year, directed by Coco Fulwiler, who teaches yoga and barre classes. Other additions include small-group training, heartratemonitored classes and Power 30 or 30-minute HIIT (high-intensity interval training) classes. All classes are included in the $89.00 per month membership fee, making Franco’s very affordable. Members can pay by the class, the day, the month, etc.—Franco’s is flexible. Franco’s ambition is to expand with more convenient locations throughout the city. “Our goal is to make working out enjoyable, easy, fun and something people actually look forward to.” With her combination of

Sandy Franco

innovation and determination, it won’t be long.

Sandy Franco, co-owner of Franco’s Fitness Clubs, has been at the forefront of the local fitness industry for over 30 years. Sandy is a southern girl, raised in Baton Rouge, where she got her first job at Foxy’s Health club at age 15. She quickly realized she had found her calling in fitness and making others healthy and strong. She and her husband, Ron, moved to Mandeville and opened Franco’s in 1988. Franco’s has grown to be one of the leading fitness clubs in the country. Franco’s opened in the city on Magazine Street in 2013. “We’re 100 percent home-grown. Being local has given Franco a greater understanding of the many obstacles that stand in the way of fitness for people who live in New Orleans. She says, “It’s extra challenging to be healthy here because there are so many reasons not to go to the gym. Between the awesome food and weekly festivals, it’s tough to motivate people to want to go to

Yoga Instructors: Noel Teen and CoCo Fulwiler.

workout. In order to keep our members motivated and engaged, we have to constantly offer something new—a new class, new equipment or a new experience. Our job at Franco’s is to keep our gym fresh, new and constantly evolving with innovative workouts and always offering the latest and greatest in fitness.” Franco notes, however, that their most valuable assets are the people

Franco’s on Magazine is located at 2116 Magazine St. in New Orleans. (504) 218-4637. francosmagazinest.com. April-May 2018 71

upbeat, full of fresh ideas and a stickler for detail.” Another client, Leslie Lanusse of Lake Vista in New Orleans, asked Patrice to help renovate and design her home. Calling her responsive and easy to work with, Lanusse says that thanks to Patrice’s services, she loves her house. “The biggest thing about Patrice is that she listens to what you want and helps you realize your vision. The vision turns out even more fabulous than you could have ever imagined.” Do you simply want to rearrange the furniture you already have? Call Patrice. She can work to arrange your furniture in a more functional fashion. Selling your home? Patrice can maximize your home’s selling price by staging it before it goes on the market. Or, perhaps you need help fine-tuning your floor plans before they’re finalized—Patrice can offer advice. Maybe you need another opinion before you accept your building plans. Patrice will be glad to receive your inquiry and offer her services. But she doesn’t do it all alone. She has a team of highly qualified contractors, painters, craftsmen, seamstresses and upholsterers to help her get the job done—and done right.

Patrice Senac Arabella Interiors offers the ultimate in design services, home furnishings,

One of her secrets to success is the attention Patrice pays to the needs and wants of her clients. She says her individual clients are her inspiration. “If someone walks into a room and says ‘Oh, that’s a design by Patrice Senac of Arabella then I am not doing my job,” Patrice says. “My work should always

and décor—along with meticulous personal service. Homeowners on both

reflect my client—not me. The client is always the most important member of

the northshore and the southshore have taken advantage of Patrice Senac’s

my team.”

experience as a designer for large and small projects, covering all budgets. Her clients have been much more than just satisfied—they have been delighted with Patrice’s transformation of their homes. One recent client in Lakeview wrote an email saying: “The party was a big success—my family members were in awe of the renovation!!! They kept saying my house looked amazing and should be in a magazine. The new seating area behind the sofa was perfect. You are so talented—thanks so much!” From new construction to renovation, Patrice works with her clients to

Before

find their style and their preferences, and then develops a plan for estheticallypleasing and functional spaces. Patrice has done design work on everything from yachts to offices to existing homes, as well as new construction homes. She has pleased homeowners in Mandeville, Covington, Metairie, and in many neighborhoods of New Orleans, including Lakeview, Lake Vista, and Bayou St. John. “Sometimes homeowners are so impressed with the transformation that they cannot believe it is their home. The very best part of what I do is seeing

After

how pleased and happy the client is once their project is completed.” Some of the many services offered include: bath and kitchen design, custom kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, custom window treatments, bedding and pillows, furniture, artwork, rugs, flooring, interior and exterior paint selection, lighting, space planning, and staging for resale. Patrice studied interior design in college and has a long and growing list of satisfied clients. One client says, “Patrice is a pleasure to work with—she’s 72

Inside New Orleans

Arabella Interiors is located at 2244 Eleventh Street in Mandeville. 985-727-9787.

Susan Zackin Ever dream of just showing up and being a guest at your own party?

Orleans area. Once we perfect the site here, we plan to expand to other cities.

Then call Susan Zackin. Zackin is the president and owner of Z Event Company

Online shoppers can research through various search parameters and then order

and the newly launched website, The Event Glossary. With over 30 years of

items and services, rent venue spaces and book hotel rooms (including hotel

experience, this former interior designer will create a beautiful and seamless

blocks) and transportation, conveniently, all on one site. Once shoppers have

affair for you whether it’s a wedding, intimate dinner party or corporate or social

finished planning their event, they checkout their cart and pay. It’s that easy,

event.

one-stop shopping. The Event Glossary also has a virtual concierge to answer

A New Orleans native, Zackin has a sophisticated vision and has produced parties that range from elegant to outrageous. When asked what sets Z Event

questions and walk users through the process.” Noting another important feature of the website, Zackin says, “There is a

Company apart from the pack, she says, “We have tremendous depth in our

‘request for pricing’ option. We are adding new partners every day. Just tell us

artistic ability. Since I have lived and worked in South Florida and across

what you want, and we’ll come back to you with pricing. We are also always

America, I have many resources. I’ve mixed it up a little and brought a different

looking to list more vendors to continue to add to the website. The Z Event

flavor to events in New Orleans, with new entertainment from around the

Company and Event Glossary office also functions as a showroom where we

country, fresh aesthetics and different styles.”

showcase rentals.”

Five years ago, Zackin sold her event-planning business in Florida and

Zackin is clearly on the cutting edge of everything event related.

moved back home. But when she began researching venues and resources for Z Event Company, she became frustrated. “There are over 1,000 different venues alone in the greater New Orleans area. When I began making lists and spreadsheets of venues, vendors and suppliers, I realized there was a need for a website.” Not one to rest on her laurels, Zackin took on the monumental job and launched The Event Glossary last November. Zackin explains: “The Event Glossary is an online marketplace for everything event related for all types of events, weddings, nonprofits, social and corporate. The website provides access to sources for novices and professionals alike—for anyone who needs to entertain or to plan an event in the New

Z Event Company and The Event Glossary are located at 508 Metairie Rd. in Metairie. For Z Event Company, 504-510-5838, zeventco.com. For more information about listing your business on The Event Glossary, visit eventglossary.com or call 800-714-9050. April-May 2018 73

furniture, fireplace accessories, grills and more. “Our staff is our greatest asset. When someone comes in interested in purchasing a Big Green Egg, for instance, they can talk to them about it, because they own one themselves and can guide them on its use.” Mona and the previous owner, Anna Papp, have known each other for years. “I was an Outdoor Living Center customer before I was owner. I know the quality of the furniture and accessories. It’s all designed to withstand the elements here in Louisiana and comes with generous warranties, some up to 20 years. I enjoy setting up a showroom where customers can come in and see, touch and feel the furniture and see how it will work out in their own spaces. We talk to them about the areas they’re looking to fill and how they will use their spaces. Do you enjoy entertaining and cooking for a crowd? Do you have young children or grandkids, pool, pets? We have a lot of customers who drive from New Orleans because they enjoy our knowledgeable, personalized service. “It can be overwhelming to walk in and see so many choices,” says Mona. “That’s why we are here. We know our merchandise and understand what will provide the look and features a customer wants. And if they don’t see the exact color or finish they want, we can special order to help them

Mona Vinturella Recently celebrating 50 years in business,

proud to offer a variety of price points, so there

Southland Plumbing Supply, Lighting and

is something for every lifestyle, taste and budget.

Appliances is the only remaining locally owned

Mona says, “Networking with other independent

plumbing supply company in the region. Owner

supply houses through our buying group has

Alan Vinturella has recruited his wife, Mona, to

helped Southland stay competitive with the

use her interior design degree in showcasing

larger chains and big box stores. Our showroom

Southland’s luxury products throughout the years.

specialists are constantly being trained to know

Now, Mona has taken a more active role in the

the latest products and featured offerings and

management and showroom design in Metairie

pride themselves on delivering just what the

and Mandeville.

customer wants.”

“Between the two locations we have nearly

A good thing got even better in August

15,000 square feet of products on display,” says

2017, when Alan and Mona purchased the Outdoor

Mona. With top plumbing brands such as Kohler,

Living Center in Covington. “Outdoor Living Center

Delta, Moen, and Kallista, and thousands of

has a wonderful reputation,” says Mona. “We were

choices in indoor and outdoor lighting, high-end

thrilled to be able to buy a thriving, respected

appliances such as Electrolux, Thermador, Bosch,

local business.” For nearly 30 years, Outdoor

Miele, and others, Southland Plumbing Supply is

Living Center has been a treasure trove of patio

Inside New Orleans

transform their home, inside and out.”

Southland Plumbing Supply is located at 2321 N. Arnoult Rd., Metairie, 504-835-8411; and 68443 Highway 59, Ste 6, Mandeville, 985-893-8883. southlandplumbingsupply.com. Outdoor Living Center is located at 1331 N. Highway 190, Covington, 985-893-8008. outdoorlivingcenter.com.

honest and tell them I wouldn’t do that. I’m a perfectionist and want to make it the best it can be.” On the other hand, she says, “When clients have a special piece they absolutely want to include, I say, if you love it, it works. “It helps immensely that we have a retail design showroom where clients can have their imagination stimulated as they see furnishings and accessories up close, touch fabrics or sit on a chair or couch to get a feel for what they like,” says Jennifer. “We can also take pieces to clients’ homes to show them in their space.” The showroom is a 4,000-square-foot house on Lee Lane in downtown Covington. Charming and bathed in comfortable elegance, the twostory building contains an array of furnishings, window treatments, lighting, accessories, handknotted rugs from Nepal and original art by the Northshore or Greater New Orleans area artists. The second floor holds an intriguing hall of mirrors. “We’re not an ordinary store,” says Jennifer. Neither, apparently, is the customer service she and her staff offer. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to make clients’ experiences amazing.” Jennifer attributes the success of The French Mix to her partnership with her husband, Thom

Jennifer DiCerbo If what studies show is true—that beauty in our surroundings can positively affect our moods— then you could say Jennifer DiCerbo’s The French Mix is a mood-changing business. With a wealth of expertise in the various aspects of design, style, furnishings and materials at her

DiCerbo, who handles business operations; to her love for her work; and to her accessibility to her clients. She says, “Everything we deal with is something that can make a space beautiful. It affects the feel of the home and clients’ day-today lives. People should feel happy and love to

command, Jennifer is a talented professional who pays close attention to detail. She pays even more

come home to everything they’ve worked hard for.

attention to her clients and their wishes, in order to accomplish her goal of creating an environment

I want them to love it.”

that expresses who they are. She takes the time to get to know them, which calls for another kind of talent—the ability to listen. “It’s also about asking the right questions,” says Jennifer. “My first question is ‘How do you want your space to feel?’” Whether comfortable, welcoming, relaxing or refined, “It’s not always what I expect.” She questions her clients about their lifestyle, how they entertain and about their children, grandchildren or pets. “This gives me the insight to be able to design the space to be, for example, kid friendly or pet friendly.” Jennifer and the design team of her full-service, mid-to-high-end interior design company work within the client’s budget. When clients don’t know their style they want or can describe, Jennifer helps them to create one, consulting various photo resources and listening for what they like and don’t like. She also gently guides clients whose choices include pieces that she knows won’t work. “I’m very

The French Mix by Jennifer DiCerbo Interiors is located at 228 Lee Lane in Covington. 985-809-3152. frenchmixinteriors.com. April-May 2018 75

Beau Rivage’s talent and HR functions, including ensuring adherence to labor laws, regulations, and HR corporate policies and procedures. She designs and oversees the execution of comprehensive strategies, initiatives, action plans and processes to improve critical organizational performance in the areas of employee engagement and guest service. In addition to her HR responsibilities, Mitchell serves as the executive sponsor of activities related to corporate social responsibility and the employee network groups. “It’s my job to spearhead these programs. And, our specific property raised $1.6 million last year through donations and sponsorships of a number of events and charities. We do a lot of giving!” Social justice is a passion of hers, and Mitchell is very proud of MGM Resorts’ diversity and inclusion program. “Diversity and inclusion are very important to our company; they’re part of our core values. We embrace diversity and

Allison Smith Mitchell Native New Orleanian Allison Smith Mitchell, PHR, SHRM-CP is a top executive with one of the leading global entertainment companies. She is the only female and African-American member of the Executive Committee at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi, an

innovation to inspire excellence. MGM Resorts is dedicated to creating advancement for women and 44 percent of its management are women and 27 percent of the directors are women, at the board level.” Mitchell still considers New Orleans home

MGM Resorts International property. Mitchell says, “That means I spend a lot of time with a lot of

and maintains a house in the city. She returns

guys, but I think I hold my own with them!”

home with her husband, Fernando Mitchell, every

Mitchell attended Loyola University and earned her bachelor’s degree in communications

weekend to see family and friends. A die-hard

and sociology. After college, she began her career in hospitality and gaming, working for the Hilton

Saints fan, Mitchell says, “My family takes a trip

Riverside and Towers, and then Boomtown and Harrah’s casinos. “I graduated from college around

every year to watch the Saints play on the road.

the time the casinos started opening in New Orleans. And my father told me they were going to

Last year, we went to London. That’s my number-

be big business.”

one hobby, the Saints! Number two is going to

Soon, human resources became the focus of Mitchell’s career, and she earned her master’s degree in organizational management. She explains, “I naturally gravitated to HR, because I like

outdoor festivals.” Other hobbies include reading, bowling and, like most women, shoe shopping!

helping people navigate through life and plot their careers in order to become successful. Since I’m a sociology major, I think it’s the social aspect of dealing with people that I like and what interests me most.” Mitchell has worked in human resources for over 26 years, and was the director of human resources at Bally’s Casino and Resort in New Orleans for 10 years before moving to Biloxi in

2006 to become director of Human Resources at Beau Rivage. In 2015, Mitchell was named vice

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino is located at

president of HR, and in this position, she is responsible for planning and directing all aspects of

875 Beach Blvd, Biloxi. beaurivage.com.

Inside New Orleans

Lee McKee For Lee McKee, it has always been linens. She says, “Having worked in fine-linen shops in Indianapolis; Hackensack, NJ; and Dallas, TX, I decided early that this type of retail really complemented my graphic-design and fine-arts background.”

Maria Pote There’s a new view at Longue Vue House & Gardens—and Executive Director Maria Pote wants you to be a part of it. “The future is bright for the Vue,” says Maria. “We are changing and focusing on being a place for education and opportunities for our city. We

“When I opened The Linen Registry 21 years ago, beds-in-a-bag were all the rage. There were a few fine-linen shops in the area, but no one created beds the way I did. We introduced ‘a look’ that allowed clients to be unique while enjoying the world’s finest linens.” The Linen Registry is a true specialty shop that brings quality and creative options to Old Metairie. “We are a design-based, fine-linen store that also offers

want to fill the city’s needs in ways that we can with this unique space and its incredible philanthropic legacy.” Maria joined Longue Vue as the Director of Sales and Development in May 2017. In November, she was promoted to Executive Director, where she has continued the excitement of a growing and evolving Longue Vue. “I want people to know that Longue Vue is open. That not only are we

a wonderful selection of gifts and loungewear. We don’t do cookie-cutter. We

open to do retreats, meetings and corporate events, but we’re open as a cultural

specialize in washable, family friendly linens, allowing you to have a home that’s

center to honor ideas, creativity, and life-long learning–and our programming

beautiful but behaves the way you need it to,” Lee explains. “When I opened

shows it. Our gardens are open, and we’re open-minded. I want people to know

the store, I had one employee—and we were both expecting babies! We have

that we have a Family Equality Day for Pride Week, Day of the Girl programming,

literally road tested our products.”

evolving exhibits in our gallery, and we want them to come. I want people to

While The Linen Registry carries major lines such as Sferra, Matouk,

know that we have programs for kids, adults and families. We want people to

Peacock Alley and Yves Delorme, Lee recently brought in a High Design program

get involved and welcome them to be a part of Longue Vue because when they

that offers innovative custom-designer collections, dramatically expanding

do, they become part of our legacy,” says Maria.

clients’ options. She says, “We ask a lot of questions so we can determine our

And welcome them, she has. Maria has reinvigorated Longue Vue’s art

client’s exact needs. Our designers work to ensure your linens fit your bed or

education program, among others, adding an artist-in-residence, New Orleans’

table.

Tricentennial artist Jamar Pierre. She says, “Jamar is the perfect fit for Longue “I love my clients! They’re like family, some of the most genuine people

Vue. He’s a 20-year art educator with a true spirit of generosity for this city.

in the world. I learn so much from them! Over the years, we’ve dressed their

When I took this position, I would have never thought that I would have the

beds. Now, their children are getting married, so we are outfitting another

opportunity to bring in this kind of dynamic talent. His first program for families,

generation with linens to enjoy for a lifetime! We want you to love your Linen

a Family Painting Workshop, sold out a month in advance.

Registry linens, whether for five years or 25, because you and your business are important to us.”

“To me, that says that when you provide programming and experiences that are relevant, your community shows up, but that’s also us showing up for the community. Our growth as a cultural center depends on it!”

The Linen Registry is located at 200 Metairie Road, Suite 102, in Metairie.

Longue Vue House and Gardens is located at 7 Bamboo Road

831-8228. thelinenregistry.com.

in New Orleans. 488-5488. longuevue.com. April-May 2018 77

Peggy Rodriguez, RN, BSN

Nancy Bui “I love when my customers are happy with the results,” smiles Nancy Bui, owner of Prim + Posh Natural Nails. “But I especially love building relationships with them throughout the years.” While Nancy has always enjoyed working with her customers, she never thought that nails would be her future—let alone her business. She graduated from the Aveda Institute with a focus on hair. She says, “I worked as a hair stylist before having to evacuate for Katrina.” Nancy soon found herself learning about nails at her uncle’s salon in New Jersey, but eventually returned to New Orleans to continue her career in hair. “I was not interested in doing nails. That was never something I thought about until I realized that I liked the work and the hours while helping at a friend’s salon part time.” Shortly after the realization, Nancy began looking for locations for her own nail salon. Prim + Posh first opened in Lakeview in August 2013, followed by a second location in Old Metairie in December of last year. Both locations provide manicures and pedicures in a serene atmosphere without the smell of acrylics—Prim + Posh only works with natural nails. The Metairie location also offers all organic, vegan-friendly and cruelty-free polishes and gels, including Bio Seaweed Gel® and Farmhouse Fresh® skincare products. I always quote Steve Jobs, ‘The only way to do great work is to love what you do.’” So next time you’re looking to be good to yourself, enjoy a mani or

“We are motivating clients to reach their full potential in all aspects of their lives,” says Peggy Rodriguez, RN, BSN. “It’s a journey of becoming healthy by losing the weight and maintaining it with lifestyle changes.” Peggy started everyBody wellness 11 years ago. And after her own personal weight loss journey with Ideal Protein, she added the program five and a half years ago. As a 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. “From the moment a client enters our door, we become a team,” says Peggy. “The journey into weight loss is a personal and intimate one, which is why we work individually and confidentially with each of our clients to determine and achieve their goals.” The everyBody wellness team of registered nurses, dieticians, nutritionists and certified weight loss coaches is committed to educating clients in understanding the impact food has on the body, the mechanism we need to activate in order to lose fat, and the food combinations that may lead to fat storage. “With our help, this can be the last diet you’ll ever need, because you learn how your body responds to food and this knowledge will give you tremendous power in managing your lifestyle,” says Peggy. “I love to see people catapult in their careers or in their personal lives. When they shed the weight, they bloom.”

pedi naturally at Prim + Posh.

Prim + Posh Natural Nails is located at 200 Metairie Road, Ste. 101, in Metairie,

everyBody wellness is located at 2901 Ridgelake Dr. in Metairie and

504-301-2642; and at 6300 Canal Blvd. in New Orleans, 504-302-1888.

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

Inside New Orleans

Jessica Mayhall It was out of necessity that New Orleans native Jessica Mayhall began painting decorative finishes on furniture. “My husband and I moved to Memphis because of his job. We bought a home but had no furniture since we sold our house in New Orleans with its furnishings included. So, I started thrifting and going to estate sales, and then I began painting the furniture I bought. In doing so, I met a decorative painter, Stephanie Jones, and she took me under her wing and trained me for three years.” While working alongside Stephanie, Mayhall learned to transform furniture, accessories, walls and floors with chalk paint, milk paint, waxes, gold and silver leaf and stencils. When Mayhall and her husband moved back to New Orleans, she had the opportunity to buy Creative Finishes Studio from her friend and fellow finish artisan, Jane Drew. “I jumped at the opportunity, and now we’re going on our fourth year in business.” Creative Finishes Studio offers custom-painted finishes, specialty paint, stencils, Chalk Paint® decorative paints by Annie Sloan, refinished vintage furniture, home accessories, art, gifts and more. Mayhall’s store on Metairie Road has been so successful that she opened a second shop in mid-January of this year, on Josephine Street, just off Magazine. Mayhall explains, “Our Uptown store has a larger studio-workshop space, so I

Debby Gaudet, SAG-AFTRA Debby Gaudet began her career as an actor in early 2000. After becoming a member of SAG-AFTRA, her work in TV and film shifted to behind the scenes. Initially, she was hired by film and television producers to work as on-set acting coach, dialogue coach and child wrangler. Soon the titles of Casting Associate and Casting Director were added to her credits. Over a decade ago, she began teaching TV and film intensives at Celtic Film Studios in Baton Rouge. With her experience in front of and behind the camera, Debby’s reputation quickly spread amongst filmmakers and actors alike. After teaching at Celtic for six years, and growing to a full roster of classes, Debby established her own full-service acting studios in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Today, Debby Gaudet’s Screen Actors Studio services talent from across Louisiana and Mississippi. In addition to television, film and commercial acting classes, both studios host events including casting director workshops, seminars, production meetings, castings, table reads and on-site filming. Debby now has a pool of over 100 students under her tutelage. Her actors

can take bigger custom pieces. And we offer weekly classes in painted-finish

can be seen in popular television shows, major motion pictures, indie projects and

techniques.”

commercials. The studios offer ongoing group and private instruction, professional

The artist has introduced fresh products to her Uptown store, including metallic paints, top-notch brushes, locally crafted jewelry and art, and restored

taping services, public speaking and career consultation. Classes are open to kids (ages 6+), teens and adults—at all levels of talent.

and painted furniture. Mayhall accepts custom commissions, by appointment. “If something is too large and can’t be transported, I’ll go to the client’s home. In addition to furniture, I’ve painted walls, ceilings, moldings … you name it.”

Creative Finishes Studios locations are: 2013 Metairie Rd., Metairie, and 1114 Josephine St., New Orleans. Mayhall’s work is

For more information on Debby check her out on Instagram

featured throughout the book, Upstyle Your

@debbygaudetscreenactors; Facebook at Debby Gaudet’s Screen Actors

Furniture, and you can follow Mayhall on

Studio; and IMDb at imdb.me/debbygaudet. Debby Gaudet’s Screen Actors

Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and her blog.

Studio is located on Veterans Blvd. just off Bonnabel in Metairie. To schedule

504-909-9028. creativefinishesstudio.com.

an interview and group class assessment, dgscreenactors@gmail.com. April-May 2018 79

Michelle Swanner Yenni Little did Michelle Yenni know growing up at Chateau Golf & Country Club that she would be the General Manager someday. “I’ve been here over half my life,” Michelle says. “I grew up in Chateau and still live in Chateau. As a child, I was on

Elaina Williams

Janice Remble

June Herron

Paula Ricks

The New Orleans Steamboat Company The New Orleans Steamboat Company (NOSC) boasts of a tight knit

the swim team; in high school I worked in the tennis shop; and I have now worked

community of employees. Some may not be the faces you see boarding the boat

here for 20 years, nine as the General Manager.”

or bus, but four special women uphold the company’s reputation, ensuring guests

Michelle’s grandparents bought Chateau over 25 years ago, knowing that it

come back.

needed to stay a shining beacon of Kenner. “My grandparents wanted to keep it

Thirty years ago, Paula Ricks was hired for data entry as a short-term

as a positive center for our community. They wanted to keep members involved

position. However, life had other plans and she eventually became Manager of the

in the community to not only continue its success, but to give back. Giving back to

Reservations Department. Paula helped open Gray Line’s Call Center and trains new

our community, along with hard work and honesty, are some of the most important

employees, while also handling inside and outside agents and occasional IT issues.

values that my grandparents instilled in me.”

“I consider myself a Jack of all trades,” Paula jokes. “I have the best coworkers who

While ten years as General Manager approaches, Michelle continues to enjoy the day-to-day of Chateau, saying that there’s never a dull moment. “There

feel like family—one once described our work as ‘selling fun.’ We certainly do!” Prior to coming on board, June Herron helped open the very first casino in

are so many interesting people and so many interesting things going on,” she

New Orleans. She now has 21 years with NOSC and holds the title of Call Center

laughs. “I can’t complain. I love working with our golfers, card players, brides and

Manager. “The best part for me is that I have the unique task of assisting guests

general membership.”

from all over the world,” she states. “I get to share my city with them on a daily

Chateau members enjoy the luxuries of dining, swimming, golf, tennis and

basis.” June feels blessed to have coworkers she also considers family.

private events on the exquisite grounds. Michelle says, “Although we have all the

In 2000, Elaina Williams joined the team as Reservations and Telephone

traditional amenities of a country club—18-hole golf course, nine tennis courts, a

Sales Agent. She strives to give guests the best customer service, while meeting all

fitness room, pool, swim team, dining and lounge area—we are so much more.

of their needs in booking their tours. She states, “I’m looking forward to 18 years

“We are very family-oriented. We have events each month for different age groups, and we want everyone to feel like family and have fun. We have a wine club, kids’ nights, comedy nights, opera events and several charity fundraisers each year to give back to the community that we are so lucky to be a part of.”

of working for this wonderful company in May! I love coming here with coworkers who have become very close to me.” Janice Remble, also a Reservations and Telephone Sales Agent for 18 years, describes her job as greeting the customers warmly and making their booking process easy and pleasant. She believes that this first impression of NOSC is extremely important and all should be treated with hospitality. “From the first day I started I felt at home,” she says. “What can be more wonderful than that?”

Chateau Golf & Country Club is located at 3600 Chateau Blvd. in Kenner. 504-467-1351. chateaugolf.net. 80

Inside New Orleans

Learn more about The New Orleans Steamboat Company at neworleanssteamboatcompany.com.

Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC Jessica D. LeBlanc has married two seemingly different professions, accounting and real estate, into one very successful career. “I took an elective course in accounting in high school and loved it! I knew I wanted to be a CPA before I even graduated from high school.” When LeBlanc was 19, while in college studying to become a CPA, she took a job with a law firm whose practice specialized in real estate transactions. She says, “I really enjoyed the real estate aspect, the legal jargon and the transactional process.” LeBlanc earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting as well as a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Orleans. Along the way, she married her high school sweetheart, Greg, and had two children. In 2004, LeBlanc obtained her real estate license, and in 2015, she acquired her broker’s license. It was then that she made the decision to go into business for herself. “I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. So, I opened up my own realty company and CPA consulting firm in the same year. At CPA Realty, we do mainly residential, but also some commercial transactions. And, I provide forensic accounting and outsourced accounting services at my CPA consulting firm.” “I love having the flexibility of working as a full-time CPA and real estate broker,” says LeBlanc. Her clients are mostly small business owners and law firms as well as from the private sector. She adds, “I have a lot of clients who are cross-overs, from my two businesses. Some of my accounting clients eventually become real estate clients and vice versa.” LeBlanc attributes part of her success to having a strong support system from her family. “My husband, Greg, quit his job—the one he had for over 21 years—and now he works for me in my real estate business!”

To get in touch with Jessica, call 504-812-7105, or check out her websites: jessicaleblanccpa.com and cparealtyllc.com. April-May 2018 81

Senior Living 2018

Senior Living Resources Avanti Senior Living 2234

accept terminal illness resourcefully

Watercross Parkway, Covington

and positively.

covington.avanti-sl.com Whether we are planning for our own senior living experience or for our loved ones, there are many choices to make and many options to consider. Lifestyles for seniors have become more vibrant and fulfilling with choices to suit most people and a wide range of care requirements. This section will provide a quick look at some of the best choices available in the area. You can get to know a little bit about these specialists before you schedule on-site visits. We hope it will help you feel prepared and confident in your options!

Inside New Orleans

Technologically-advanced senior

Christwood Retirement

living community offering assisted

Community 100 Christwood Blvd,

living and memory care.

Covington; 985-898-0515 or 800480-4361 christwoodrc.com

Belle Vie Living Center 393-9595

Independent living, assisted

bellevielivingcenter.com

living, cognitive memory care,

Skilled Nursing care at Belle Vie

rehabilitation, skilled nursing,

Living Center is dedicated to

companion services, Christwood at

providing quality, compassionate

Home, and Christwood Dementia

care that meets the changing needs

Home Services.

of residents. Canon Hospice New Orleans 818-

Colonial Oaks Living Center 4312 Ithacia St., Metairie

2723 CanonHospice.com

887-6414 colonialoaksliving.org

Helps patients and their families

Residents enjoy an invigorating >>

St. Anthony’s Gardens “I describe living at St. Anthony’s Gardens in a few words, using the title of a beautiful song: What a Wonderful World,” says independent living resident Howard Moreaux. “Everything I could want or need is here for this stage of my life.” Howard and other residents of St. Anthony’s Gardens enjoy a variety of activities and amenities to make life wonderful. From a movie theater to balance classes to a variety of entertainment including Hawaiian luaus and Octoberfest, life enrichment activities overflow for residents. “To assist our residents in achieving a healthier and happier lifestyle, St. Anthony’s Gardens incorporates wellness programming that offers opportunities for a balanced and active life, rich in liveliness and wellbeing,” says Life Enrichment Director Lisa Ray. Now celebrating one year, the overall life at St. Anthony’s is thriving with

wonderful residents and friendships being formed. Director of Marketing and Sales Julie Portmann says: “I’ve been involved with St. Anthony’s Gardens since the start-up phase. It has been amazing to see the progression from bricks and mortar to a warm, friendly and family atmosphere. “The friendships and family-like environment has been wonderful to witness. We even have a set of four friends who went to high school together in New Orleans. The four of them are thrilled to rekindle their friendship here at St. Anthony’s.” St. Anthony’s Gardens has flexible contract options for its 213 residences, consisting of 120 apartments for independent living in one-bedroom and twobedroom floor plans; 57 apartments for assisted living in studios, one- and twobedrooms; and 36 private suites for memory care. For assisted living and memory care, a licensed nurse is on the premises 24/7.

St. Anthony’s Gardens is located at 601 Holy Trinity Drive in Covington next to the Most Holy Trinity Church. 985-605-5950. StAnthonysGardens.org. April-May 2018 83

Senior Living 2018

Senior Living Resources lifestyle with new adventures

and nursing care with secure memory

each day, new friendships and

care available in assisted living and

companionship, predictable

nursing; adult day program.

budgeting, and nutritious and tasty meals that they no longer need to

Sensible Meals

prepare for themselves.

EatSensibleMeals.com Sensible Meals offers fresh,

Dependable In Home Care 702 N.

affordable (15 meals for five days

Carrollton Ave., New Orleans

costs $80 to $120), chef-prepared

486-5044 dependablecare.net

meals made in a licensed, certified

The caregivers you request, when

and insured facility with an A+

terminal illness positively and resourcefully, to preserve dignity, and endure

you need them, at a price you can

health rating. Easy drive thru local

the challenges that they are faced with during this critical time of life. Our

afford.

pickups in 11 cities or $15 fedex

The Team of Canon Hospice Canon Hospice is dedicated to helping patients and families accept

shipping to your doorstep.

goal is to allow our patients to live each day to the fullest and enjoy time with their family and friends. We are committed to meeting the physical,

Lambeth House 150 Broadway,

emotional and spiritual needs of our patients and their families. Canon has

New Orleans 865-1960

St. Anthony’s Gardens 601 Holy

been serving the community with Hospice services since 1999.

LambethHouse.com

Trinity Dr, Covington; 985-605-

Life plan, retirement, community.

5950 StAnthonysGardens.org

Canon is making a difference in the community by providing quality end

A ministry of the Archdiocese

of life care to those seeking comfort and dignity while dealing with a life limiting illness. Canon’s community commitment is extended even further

Oak Park Village at Hammond

of New Orleans specializing in

through the non-profit Akula Foundation. The Foundation sponsors: Camp

17010 Old Covington Hwy,

independent living 55+ and older;

Swan (a 3-day camp for children ages 7-12 who have lost a significant

Hammond, 772-6109

assisted living; and memory care.

person in their life) which is held three times a year; Grief support is offered

oakparkvillagesl.com Maintenance-

to anyone in the community who has experienced any type of loss; Many

free retirement community or

The Trace Senior Community

education hours offered to health professionals; Legacy Moments (a program

independent living, or if you need

19432 Crawford Rd, Covington;

assisting families to create lasting video and book memories); and AIM (a

more personalized attention with

241-4310 thetraceseniorliving.com

program for patients who are terminally ill and still receiving treatment).

supervised independent living,

Health and wellness care services;

Each Saturday Canon and the Foundation sponsor The Canon Hospice

personal care living, assisted living

outstanding amenities; comfortable

Health Hour. The program airs live each Saturday from 3pm – 4pm, on WRNO

or memory care.

apartment homes.

FM Baton Rouge and features physicians, authors and community health

Oak Park Village at Slidell 2200

The Windsor Senior Living

organizations. Tune in or Call in at 877-585-0995.

Gause Blvd E, Slidell, 309-1599

Community 1770 N Causeway

99.5 FM New Orleans, WBUV 104.9 FM Biloxi/Gulfport, WJBO 1150 AM/97.7

oakparkvillagesl.com Maintenance-

Blvd, Mandeville; 624-8040

For more information call location close to you or go to

free retirement community or

windsorseniorliving.com

www.canonhospice.com and www.akulafoundation.com

independent living, or if you need

Twenty years of providing seniors

more personalized attention with

with independent and assisted

supervised independent living,

living services.

Now Offering Private Rooms

personal care living, assisted living or memory care.

Westside Orthopedic Clinic 1301 Barataria Blvd., Marrero 347-0243

New Orleans, 504-818-2723, Baton Rouge, 225-926-1404, The northshore, 985-626-3051, Mississippi Gulf Coast, 225-926-1404. 84

Inside New Orleans

Poydras Home 5354 Magazine

westsideortho.com

St., New Orleans 897-0535

General orthopedics, minimally

PoydrasHome.com

invasive procedures, expert in

Independent living, assisted living

the field.

Lambeth House “We want people to spend their time living at Lambeth House, not just residing,” says Scott Crabtree, Lambeth House President and CEO. “We feel strongly about active aging and the benefits it has for people, not only physically, but mentally.” The Wellness Center at Lambeth House has over 21,000 square feet dedicated to promoting mind, body and spirit wellness. “Lambeth House is among the nation’s most progressive retirement communities as it relates to active aging,” says Jeré Hales, COO. “The term active aging describes the processes that optimize an adult’s health and wellbeing through physical, intellectual, mental and social stimulation. It embraces the notion that life as we age can be lived to the fullest.” “We’ve watched residents improve their life here. It is a comprehensive wellness program that goes beyond physical fitness. We offer stimulating educational programs and cultural amenities such as an extensive art and historical letter collection, as well as the opportunity for artistic selfexpression,” says Scott. “We are committed to helping people age in a healthy way.” Within the Center, residents and outside members can benefit from the fitness center, indoor salt water pool, meditation room and garden, and art studio. “In addition to individual exercise programs, we offer Tai Chi, yoga, balance and strength training plans and aquatic programs,” says Jeré. “Residents are discovering talents they didn’t know they had. Some have become amazing artists and more. Lambeth House is not a place to find an easy chair. It is a place to discover yourself.”

The campus includes 118 independent living apartment homes, 56 private nursing care residences, 15 secure memory care rooms and 61 assisted living apartments. Lambeth House is located at 150 Broadway St., New Orleans. 865-1960. lambethhouse.com. April-May 2018 85

M A R R I A G E A N D

Viator- Zeringue

L O V E

Amy Claire Viator and Wayne George Zeringue III wed in holy matrimony at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Fr. Tim Hedrick officiated the wedding Mass, with Monsignor Andrew Taormina as co-celebrant. The bride was escorted by her father, Stafford “Chuck”

I N

Viator. She wore a Modern Trousseau trumpet-style gown made of silk Mikado with silk-covered buttons along the train and a custom, detachable, off-the-shoulder Alençon lace top. A chapel-length veil trimmed in matching Alençon lace complemented her gown. The bride’s attendants dressed in champagne chiffon. Maids of honor were her sisters, Margaret and Caroline Viator; the groom’s sister, Claire Zeringue was one of the bridesmaids. Wayne Zeringue, father of the groom, served as his best man. Ceremony vocalist Sarah Jane McMahon was accompanied by Aaron Ambeau. Following the ceremony, family and friends gathered for the reception at Brennan’s Restaurant. Harry Hardin’s Jazz Trio welcomed guests to the reception, where they enjoyed hand-passed items and stations serving a variety of selections—including Bananas Foster. The bride’s cake was a white almond cake with French buttercream made by The Royal Cakery and decorated with fresh flowers by Meade Wenzel, who beautifully implemented all the flowers. Leah Michael made the red velvet groom’s cake which was decorated as a pot of boiled crawfish. Anna Schaefer and Glenny Beahm with Angle Events were the creative forces behind the wedding and reception. Elizabeth Dondis Photography captured the fun, including the bride and groom along with their families dancing on stage to several of the Musical Fantasy and tambourines, which were passed out toward the end of the night. The bride and groom left the reception to cheers of guests waving white ribbon wands before heading to their honeymoon in St. Lucia. The groom’s parents, Wayne and Susie Zeringue, hosted the rehearsal dinner at Antoine’s Restaurant; the planning and décor were provided by Z Event Company. The dinner was followed by a Dessert and Drinks Party given by Barbara and Steven Bossier and Tina and Rick Flick. 86

Inside New Orleans

photos: ELIZABETH DONDIS PHOTOGRAPHY

band’s songs. The guests lit up the courtyard with light-up flower crowns

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

Dunlap- Ollre

Friends and family from near and far flocked

I N

to New Orleans for the destination wedding of Elizabeth Lancaster Dunlap, a native of Baton Rouge, and Todd Michael Ollre, from Houston. On a beautiful sunny afternoon, in the Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, the bride was escorted down the aisle by her father, Col. John B. Dunlap III clad in his military finest. The bride’s maids of honor were her sisters, Camille and Emily Dunlap, and Trent Ollre served as his brother’s best man. Fr. John Brown, SJ, was the celebrant for the ceremony. Music was provided by organist Jessie Reeks, trumpeter Steve Orejudos and cantor Sarah Jane McMahon. Following the ceremony, guests relished the walk from the Cathedral to Pat O’s on the River at the Jax Brewery. Specialty drinks were flowing and all noshed on local favorites such as crab cakes, alligator and seafood jambalaya. The wedding cake, topped with hydrangea, was created by Swiss Confectionary and the bouquets and florals were by Fat Cat Flowers. While taking in the magnificent views of the Mississippi River, all enjoyed dancing to the music of the Kinfolk Jazz Band. The celebration made for a great reunion of

photos: CANDRA GEORGE mycreativereality.com

Elizabeth’s Chi Omega sisters from Vanderbilt and Todd’s fellow Aggies from Texas A&M. The great fun of the afternoon culminated in a huge Second Line parade, led by the Kinfolk Brass Band and the bride and groom, down Decatur Street and through the French Quarter, with all guests waving personalized white handkerchiefs, much to the delight of visitors. Following a wedding trip to Bermuda, the couple resides in Houston. April-May 2018 87

INside Peek

1 1. Toni Shirley, Robert Baer and Rick Sedberry volunteering for Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service where Fidelity Bank and NOLA Lending Group teamed up with Teach For America and Uncommon Construction NOLA to give back. 2. Connie

Seitz and Marcia Holmes at Holmes’ opening solo exhibit at Degas Gallery. 3. Z

Susan Wormser and Andrea Lockwood

event. 4. Eclectic Home’s Penny Francis and Casi Francis St. Julian. 5. Hilltop Shoppe’s Rosalind Jenkins and Mary Martin France. 6. Shannon Lea O’Shea and Jesse Richard Martin celebrating their

photo: GENOVESE STUDIOS

at Longue Vue’s Signature Spring Style

wedding at Marche. 7. Wayne Zeringue, Sr., Wayne “Jack” Zeringue III and Wayne Zeringue Jr. celebrating Jack’s wedding rehearsal at Antoine’s Restaurant. 8. Cherie Albro, Jamie Cangelosi, Karey Haslauer, Lisa Ballay, Cherie Moore and Jessica Schulman at the Sugarplum Ball committee breakfast held at Longue Vue House and Gardens. 9. Becca Michelet and Jeanne Emory at the grand opening of Bra

Genie’s Metairie location. 10. At the New Orleans Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Annual Appreciation meeting, the CFF honors a group of volunteers committed to making CF stand for “Cure Found”!

9 88

Inside New Orleans

photo: ELIZABETH DONDIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Event Co’s Reilly Rendeiro, Susan Zackin,

INside Peek Sipping and Shopping with Beth DePass A fun day of sipping and shopping at Priorities, the active-wear store on Maple Street, welcomed the exciting BETH DEPASS brand of active and travel wear. Shoppers met the creative director and owners Beth DePass, Cheryl Simon and Rae Sanders and perused the latest spring collection. Formally known as “Kevan Hall Sport,” this golf and lifestyle collection is now transitioned to BETH DEPASS and is adding more silhouettes and fabrics that can be worn anywhere at any time of day. This luxury ready-to-wear clothing line is stylish enough for sports activities, lunch, dinner or even travel. Look for it in New Orleans at Priorities!

At the Jazz Band Ball At the Jazz Band Ball, presented by The Louisiana National Guard Foundation, celebrated the opening of Over There: The Louisiana National Guard in the Great War, an exhibit on Louisiana’s role in World War I. The evening at the Jackson Barracks Museum featured cocktails invented during WWI, the “Sidecar” and the “French 75”. After dinner, a silent auction and dancing to the music of G and the Swinging Three kept the evening rolling. All proceeds will benefit exhibit development at the Louisiana National Guard Museums at Jackson Barracks and Camp Beauregard.

April-May 2018 89

photo: RUDY BIERHUIZEN/MIKE POSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

INside Peek 1. The 2018 royal court of Caliphs of Cairo. 2. Bob Diliberto with his daughter, Sophie, at the Hermes ball. 3. Anna Tusa and Myra Cancienne celebrating

Cleopatra. 4. Athenians Queen Bailey Batt with Karyn Kearney and Dana Hansel at home. 5. Jill Nalty and her daughter Layne, Queen of Proteus, being toasted on the balcony at the Pickwick Club during the parade. 6. Chase and Laura Mullin with their two children parading at Endymion. 2

everyBody wellness Welcomes Chef Verati Guests and clients of everyBody wellnessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peggy Rodriguez gathered at the Sheraton Hotel in the Galleria for an evening with Ideal Protein Chef Daniel Verati and Chef Veratiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Roadshow. He shared recipes and cooking techniques for living and maintaining an Ideal Protein life, with a focus on phase four living of this weight loss program. His cookbooks, Taste the Freedom: 250 Ways to a Better Lifestyle; phase four and My Ideal Recipes: 250 Scrumptious ways to enjoy your meals; Ideal Protein phases one and two, are available at everyBody wellness.

Inside New Orleans

IN Great Taste by Yvette Jemison

photos: YVETTE JEMISON

Chocolate Truffles

Simply the perfect bite-size treat!

CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES appear fancy with their beautiful exterior and their creamy interior. One would think that something so luxurious should be difficult to prepare. The truth is chocolate truffles couldn’t be easier to make. Ganache, the truffle base, can be prepared with as few as two ingredients by simply mixing cream and chocolate. Using a good quality chocolate with 62 percent cacao is key— choosing a quality chocolate will result in a superb texture and flavor. Avoid using chips that have stabilizers to help keep their shape, as this could result in a grainy texture. Be prepared to get your hands full of chocolate when making truffles. The fun begins when you roll the ganache in toppings ranging from traditional unsweetened cocoa powder to chopped nuts or crushed toffee. Be creative with your flavor combinations, and you’ll see that it’s quite simple to create decadent chocolates. Offer these easy-to-prepare truffles as a special treat for mom, a gift for the graduate or as an after-dinner dessert. >>

April-May 2018 91

IN Great Taste

INside Dining

Ye Olde College Inn aaa Neighborhood Café, 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-866-3683

New Orleans is home to more great restaurants than we could hope to list

Chocolate Truffles Servings: 5 dozen truffles

here. For a comprehensive listing of restaurants in the New Orleans metro area, please refer to Tom Fizmorris’ nomenu.com. In this guide, you will find

10 ounces chocolate (62 percent cacao), finely chopped 1 1/4 cups heavy cream

Magazine St., 504-524-3386

CARROLLTON, RIVERBEND AND BROADMOOR Babylon Café aaa Middle Eastern, 7724 Maple St., 504-314-0010 Barcelona Tapas aaa Spanish, 720 Dublin St., 504-861-9696 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, 7623 Maple St., 504-314-9003 Mat & Naddie’s aaaa Eclectic, 937 Leonidas St., 504-861-9600 Mikimoto aaaa Japanese, 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-1881

Do Ahead: Ganache can be made 3 days ahead; keep covered and refrigerated. Truffles can be made 1 week ahead; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Mona’s Café aa Middle Eastern, 1120 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-861-8174 Panchita’s aaa Central American, 1434 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-281-4127 Pupuseria La Macarena aaa Central American, 8120 Hampson

Mocha Truffles Servings: 5 dozen truffles

St., 504-862-5252 Riccobono’s Panola Street Café aa Breakfast, 7801 Panola St., 504-314-1810

To make mocha truffles, substitute 1/4 cup strong coffee for 1/4 cup heavy cream. 92

Inside New Orleans

Bon Ton Café aaa Cajun, 401 Café Adelaide aaaa Contemporary

Basil Leaf aaa Thai, 1438 S.

1. Place chocolate in a medium bowl. Line two baking sheets with parchment or wax paper. Pour toppings into shallow dishes. 2. In a small sauce pan on medium heat, simmer cream until bubbles form around the edges of the pan. Remove from heat and pour over chocolate. Let sit until chocolate is melted, 3 minutes. 3. Stir well until combined and glossy. Pour into an 8x8 baking pan or a pie dish. Refrigerate until firm enough to scoop, 3 hours. 4. Using a small spring release scoop or a spoon, scoop out a teaspoon of ganache. Drop onto a lined baking sheet and repeat with remaining ganache. 5. Form chocolate into balls with the palm of your hands and roll truffles in your choice of coatings. If ganache becomes too soft to form, refrigerate until firm enough to handle. 6. Place coated truffles on the second lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm. Transfer to an airtight container, placing wax paper or parchment between layers, and store in the refrigerator. Let sit at room temperature for 1 hour before serving.

Hotel. 504-648-1200

Tom’s fleur de lis ratings are shown.

pecans, finely chopped roasted and salted pepitas, crushed toffee, dried chili mango.

Roosevelt

some of the best bets around town.

Assorted coatings such as: unsweetened cacao powder, cacao nibs, toasted coconut, finely chopped

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT Blue Room aaa American, 123 Baronne,

Vincent’s aaaa Italian, 7839 St. Charles Ave., 504-866-9313

Creole, 300 Poydras St., 504595-3305 Chophouse aaa Steak, 322 Magazine St., 504-522-7902 Desi Vega’s aaaa Steak, 628 St. Charles Ave., 504-523-7600 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 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. (Riverfront). 504-247-9265 Rivershack Tavern Hamburgers, seafood, 3449 River Rd., 504834-4938 Ruby Slipper Café aaa Breakfast, Neighborhood Café, 200 Magazine St., 504-525-9355 Ruth’s Chris Steak House aaa Steak, 525 Fulton St., 504-587-7099 Windsor Court Grill Room aaa American, 300 Gravier St., 504-522-1994 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 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

i 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 Court of Two Sisters aaa Creole French, 613 Royal St., 504-522-7261 Crescent City Brewhouse aaa Pub Food, 527 Decatur St., 504522-0571 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., 504-5222467 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

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 Ted Brennan's Decatur Classic French Creole, 309 Decatur St., 504-525-7877 The Country Club Contemporary Creole, 634 Louisa St., 504-945-0742 Trinity aaa Contemporary Creole, 117 Decatur St., 504-325-5789 Tujague’s aaa Creole, 823 Decatur St., 504-525-8676 Vacherie aaa Creole Homestyle, 827 1/2 Toulouse St., 504-207-4532

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., 504596-2530 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

GARDEN DISTRICT Caribbean Room 2031 St. Charles Ave., 504-523-1500 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

Restaurant 921 Canal Street (The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans) 504670-2828 Mr. B’s Bistro aaaa Contemporary 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

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 Munch Factory aaa Contemporary>>

April-May 2018 93

g Creole, 6325 Elysian Fields Ave., 504-324-5372

Houma Blvd., 504-457-4188 Riccobono’s Peppermill aaa

Ralph’s On The Park aaaa

Creole Italian, 3524 Severn Ave.,

Contemporary Creole, 900 City Park Ave., 504-488-1000

504-455-2266 Ristorante Filippo aaa Creole

Sala Cocktails and Small Plates, 124

Italian, 1917 Ridgelake Dr.,

Lake Marina, 504-513-2670

504-835-4008

Steak Knife aaa Contemporary

Ruth’s Chris Steak House aaaa

Creole, 888 Harrison Ave.,

Steak, 3633 Veterans Blvd.,

504-488-8981

504-888-3600 Sandro’s Trattoria aaa Creole

METAIRIE

Italian, 6601 Veterans Blvd.,

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

504-888-7784 Shogun aaaa Japanese, 2325

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

Veterans Blvd., 504-833-7477 Taqueria Corona aaa Mexican,

Andy's Bisro aaa American, 3322 N. Turnbull Dr. 504-455-7363

3535 Severn Ave., 504-885-5088 Vincent’s aaaa Creole Italian, 4411

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

Chastant St., 504-885-2984 Zea aaa American, 4450 Veterans

Caffe! Caffe! aa Breakfast, 4301

Blvd. (Clearview Mall), 504-

Clearview Pkwy., 504-885-4845;

780-9090; 1655 Hickory Ave.,

3547 N. Hullen., 504-267-9190

Harahan, 504-738-0799

Café East aaa Pan-Asian, 4628 MID-CITY

Rye St., 504-888-0078 Carreta’s Grill a Mexican, 2320

Angelo Brocato aaa Dessert and Coffee, 214 N. Carrollton Ave.,

Veterans Blvd., 504-837-6696; 1821 Hickory Ave., Harahan, 504-305-4833

504-486-0078 Café Degas aaa French, 3127

Casablanca aaa Mediterranean, 3030 Severn Ave., 504-888-2209

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

China Rose aaa Chinese, 3501 N. Arnoult St., 504-887-3295 Crabby Jack’s aaa Sandwiches, 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 aaa Seafood, 3117 21St. Street, 504-833-6310 Parran’s Po-Boys aaa Sandwiches, 3939 Veterans Blvd., 504-885-3416 Pho Orchid aaa Vietnamese, 3117

Inside New Orleans

Canal St., 504-482-6266 Cafe NOMA Contemporary Creole,

1 Collins Diboll Circle, 504-4821264

Canal Street Bistro aaa Mexican, 3903 Canal St., 504-482-1225 Crescent City Steak House aaa Steak, 1001 N. Broad St., 504821-3271 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., 504486-9950 Katie’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 3701 Iberville St., 504-488-6582 Little Tokyo aaa Japanese, 310 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-485-5658 Liuzza’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 3636 Bienville St., 504-482-9120 Mandina’s aaa Italian, Seafood, 3800 Canal St., 504-482-9179 Mona’s Café aa Middle Eastern, 3901 Banks St., 504-482-7743 Parkway Poor Boys aaa Sandwiches, 538 Hagan Ave., 504-482-3047 Ruby Slipper Café aaa Breakfast, Neighborhood Café, 139 S. Cortez St., 504-309-5531

i Rue 127 aaaa Contemporary Creole, 127 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-483-1571 SWEGS Kitchen Healthy comfort food, 231 N. Carrollton Ave., Ste. B, 504-301-9196 Toups’ Meatery aaa Cajun, 845 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-252-4999 Venezia aaa Italian, 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-7991 Willie Mae’s Scotch House aaa Chicken, 2401 St. Ann St., 504822-9503

674-9883 Mattina Bella aaa Breakfast, 421 E. Gibson St., Covington, 985892-0708 Mellow Mushroom aa Pizza, 30 craft beers on tap, 1645 N. Hwy. 190, Covington, 985-327-5407 Nathan’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 36440 Old Bayou Liberty Rd., Slidell, 985-643-0443 New Orleans Food & Spiritsaaa Seafood, 208 Lee Lane, Covington, 985-875-0432 Nuvolari’s aaaa Creole Italian, 246

NEW ORLEANS EAST 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

Girod St., Mandeville, 985-626-5619 Ox Lot 9 aaa Contemporary, 428 E Boston St., Covington, 985400-5663 Pardo’s aaaa Contemporary Creole, 69305 Hwy 21, Covington, 985-893-3603

Homestyle, 6001 Stars and

Ristorante Del Porto aaaa Italian,

Stripes Blvd., 504-241-5300

501 E. Boston St., Covington,

NORTHSHORE

Sal and Judy’s aaaa Italian, 27491

Acme Oyster House aaa Seafood,

Highway 190, Lacombe, 985-

985-875-1006

1202 US 190, Covington, 985246-6155 Café Lynn aaaa Contemporary Creole,

882-9443 Zea aaa American, 110 Lake Dr., Covington, 985-327-0520; 173

2600 Florida St., Mandeville, 985-

Northshore Blvd., Slidell,

624-9007

985-3270520

Carreta’s Grill a Mexican, 1340 Lindberg Dr., Slidell, 985-8470020; 70380 LA Hwy. 21,

OLD METAIRIE Byblos aaa Middle Eastern, 1501

Covington, 985-871-6674

Metairie Rd., 504-834-9773

The Chimes aaa Cajun, 19130 W.

Café B aaa Contemporary Creole,

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, 985875-0160 Fazzio’saa Italian,1841 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-624-9704

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

Gallagher’s Grill aaaa Contemporary Creole, 509 S. Tyler St., Covington, 985-892-9992 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 190, Covington, 985-400-5202; 1200 W. Causeway Approach, Mandeville, 985-624-2990 Lakehouse aaa Contemporary Creole, 2025 Lakeshore Dr., Mandeville, 985-626-3006 Mandina’s aaa Italian, Seafood, 4240 La 22, Mandeville, 985-

UPTOWN Amici aaa Italian, 3218 Magazine St., 504-300-1250 Ancora Pizzeria aaa Pizza, 4508 Freret St., 504-324-1636 Apolline aaaa American Gourmet, 4729 Magazine St., 504-894-8881 Atchafalaya aaaa Contemporary Creole, 901 Louisiana Ave., 504891-9626 Baru Bistro & Tapas aaa Caribbean, 3700 Magazine St., 504-895-2225 Bistro Daisy aaaa Creole French, 5831 Magazine St., 504-899-6987 Casamento’s aaa Seafood, 4330 Magazine St., 504-895-9761

April-May 2018 95

g Charlie’s Steak House aaa Steak,

Café Reconcile aaa Lunch Café,

4510 Dryades St., 504-895-9323

1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.,

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 Lilette aaaa French, 3637 Magazine St., 504-895-1636 Mahony’s aaa Neighborhood Café, 3454 Magazine St., 504-899-3374 Martinique aaa French, 5908

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 Josephine Estelle Italian, 600 Carondelet St., 504-930-3070 La Boca aaaa Steak, 870 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-525-8205 Mais Arepas aaaa South American, 1200 Carondelet St., 504-523-6247 Opal Basil Artisan Sandwiches, 719 S. Peters St. 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 Seaworthy Oysters and Cocktails, 600 Carondelet St., 504-930-3071 Tomas Bistro aaaa Creole French, 755 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-527-0942 Tommy’s Cuisine aaaa Creole Italian, 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-581-1103

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 Magazine St., 504-941-7560 Salú aaa Eclectic, 3226 Magazine St., 504-371-5809 Slice aaa Pizza, 5538 Magazine St., 504-897-4800

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

Sukho Thai aaa Thai, 4519 Magazine St., 504-373-6471

WEST END AND BUCKTOWN

Taqueria Corona aaa Mexican, 5932

The Blue Crab aaa Seafood, 7900

Magazine St., 504-897-3974 Upperline aaaa Contemporary Creole, 1413 Upperline St., 504891-9822

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

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 Briquette Contemporary Coastal Cuisine, 701 S. Peters St. 504302-7496

Inside New Orleans

New Orleans Food & Spirits aaa Seafood, 210 Hammond Hwy., 504-828-2220 R&O’s aaa Seafood, 216 Old Hammond Hwy., 504-831-1248 Two Tony’s aaa Creole Italian, 8536 Pontchartrain Blvd., 504282-0801 Wasabi aaa Japanese, 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., 504-267-3263

April-May 2018 97

Briquette

WITH AN ENTICING 18-foot seafood display filled with fresh sea bass, halibut, steelhead salmon, Louisiana redfish and many other seafood favorites, most of Briquette’s cuisine is cooked on its namesake—a briquette. “Fresh fish are prepared over red-hot briquettes seasoned in the finest flavored oil in our signature open kitchen,” says owner Anna Tusa. Briquette showcases contemporary coastal dishes like Snapper Pontchartrain and Whole Greek Sea Bass. However, the coastal dishes don’t start there. The Introduction menu features caramelized sea scallops with charred poblano butter and fried goat cheese grits as well as broiled oysters with smelt roe béchamel and dynamite chili butter. Prince Edward mussels, salmon belly crudo and seared ahi tuna also make an appearance. A patron favorite is the Louisiana Redfish on the Half Shell smothered in charred lemon butter with Belle River crawfish relish and heirloom pommes frites. Briquette offers an extensive wine list and beautifully crafted cocktails, with Encore dishes of warm blueberry walnut corn muffin, Molasses Factory Foster, and bread pudding beignets among others. On a prominent corner in the Warehouse District, Briquette lives in the former Rodd Brothers Molasses Refinery building, which dates back to the 1800s. “You’ll feel right at home with our inviting bar and community tables that create a living room-like setting,” says Anna. “We look forward to seeing you at Briquette, New Orleans.” Briquette is located at 701 South Peters Street. 302-7496. briquette-nola.com. 98

Inside New Orleans

by Leah Draffen

photos: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

Last Bite

Chef Hosie Bourgeois with Anna and A.J. Tusa.