April-May 2020 Issue of Inside New Orleans

495

$

HOME AND GARDEN • CRESCENT CITY FARMERS MARKET •

MOTHER-CHILD DUOS • WOMEN IN BUSINESS

APRIL-MAY 2020 VOL. 7, NO. 2

April-May 2020

Vol. 7, No. 2

Publisher Jonée Daigle-Ferrand –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Editor

Art Director

Leah Draffen Brad Growden

Contributors are featured on page 11.

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Account Executives

Poki Hampton

Ashley Meteye

Amalie Murphy

Jessica Perilloux

Barbara Roscoe

Summer Tallant

Morgan Wynne

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Chief Financial Officer

Patrick Daigle

Executive Assistant

Summer Tallant

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(504) 251-4818

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On the cover

Artist Casey Langteau Johnson.

Find more on page 12.

INSIDE NEW ORLEANS is published bi-monthly (February, April, June, August, October, December) by JBL Publishing, LLC, PO Box 7603, Metairie, LA 70010-7603 as a means of communication and information for greater New Orleans, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid - New Orleans, LA. Copy­right ©2020 by JBL 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.

page 60

page 75

contents table of

Features

12 Lists and Passion

Cover Artist Casey Langteau Johnson 22 Work Genes

Mothers and their children who seamlessly meld family and business 58 Looking Good and Feeling Great Resource Guide

Home & Garden

28 Bees Please

Creating a Garden for You and Pollinators 30 Crescent City Farmers Market

25 Years of Bringing Farmers to the City and New Orleanians to the Table

8 Publisher’s Note 10 Editor’s Note 11 Contributors 16 INside Scoop 60 INside Look 63 Flourishes 65 Fresh and Clean

Tips for Spring Cleaning 68 Support Local 69 INside Peek Featuring: Broussard Restaurant’s Centennial Anniversary Celebration Ella Brennan Award Gala Meet the Artist Party: Terrance Osborne Italian American St. Joseph Society 50th Anniversary

75 Drinks with Anna

33 Staying Connected While Hunkering Down

76 IN the Kitchen

34 Home & Garden Essentials

82 Last Bite Broussard’s Restaurant

35 Resource Listings 6

Departments

I n s ide N ew Or lean s

Women IN Business

begins on page 37

78 Haute Plates

Publisher’s Note

by Jonee Daigle-Ferrand

My publisher’s note this month is not exactly what I envisioned two weeks ago. This pandemic has turned all of our lives’ upside down. With that, I strongly feel that now is a good time for me to talk about the most important thing New Orleanians can do right now and that is to shop local and help small businesses. Right now, every locally-owned business needs our support more than ever. Inside New Orleans advertisers are a great place to start (see page 68). This magazine is my gift to you, our wonderful readers. So please, try and enjoy your downtime, but once everyone is back up and running again, get out there and support local!

Our April-May Women IN Business issue is a special issue that I hold near and dear to my heart. I’ve been excited about the focus of this issue since I purchased Inside New Orleans. The New Orleans area has many flourishing and accomplished women in business that have much to offer our local and national economy.

As a female small business owner, I will do my part in supporting as many local businesses as I can. This includes going to these local small businesses for my meals, medical needs, credit card processing, and home needs.

Inside New Orleans magazine’s Women IN Business luncheon is scheduled the day before I turn 40. I started in the magazine advertising world when I was wrapping up my last semester at LSU at the young age of 23. If you would have asked me 17 years ago if I saw myself one day owning a magazine, I would have most definitely said, YES! I love everything about being the publisher of Inside New Orleans. I absolutely love working with talented writers, I love helping old and new businesses grow, and I especially love all of my employees and appreciate all of their hard work in making this magazine come together.

In the meantime, take care of each other, love, laugh, and pray. Remember, we have faced difficult times before, and we will overcome like we have in the past.

God Bless,

Non-Surgical Face-Lifting: An Effective Alternative to the Knife 54 year old New Orleans native, T.R., said “I knew injectables weren’t cutting it for me anymore, but I wasn’t ready to have surgery.” This is a common sentiment shared amongst many of Dr. Velargo’s patients.

Until recently, there was little to offer these so called “gap” patients. Older non-surgical face tightening devices (e.g.

Ultherapy) deliver energy through the skin, so you can only treat so much before you risk burning the patient.

Enter FaceTite and AccuTite. These devices are total game changers because they heat above and below the skin while monitoring temperature in real time for precision and added safety.

Before.

Three months after.

The secret behind Dr. Velargo’s non-surgical “EmbraceRF” Lift is found in the trifecta of treatments that provide you with unsurpassed results – all without a single incision or scar.

• FaceTite and/ or AccuTite: uses radiofrequency to heat deep facial tissues, stimulate collagen production, and melt fat.

• Morpheus 8: uses microneedling with radiofrquency to tighten the skin, resulting in a pronounced reduction in fine lines and wrinkles • Platelet Rich Fibrin: accelerates and facilitates healing, using your body’s own growth factors.

Dr. Velargo is a double board certified facial plastic surgeon who has been practicing uptown for over 5 years.

He is an internationally published expert in facial plastic surgery and has been invited to speak both internationally and stateside at numerous plastic surgery conferences.

Dr. Velargo is well known in our community for, among other things: • Aging face surgery (face and neck lifts, eyelid surgery, lip lifts, brow lifts, fat grafting, etc…)

• Rhinoplasty • Chin augmentation • Otoplasty • Non-surgical procedures such as EmbraceRF and injectables • Facial feminization surgery (forehead contouring, Adam’s apple shave, etc…)

Dr. Velargo ensures that you leave your consultation with him well educated on what options will give you the best results possible. Trust your face to an expert —Dr. Parker Velargo.

Dr. Velargo says that there are 5 key points to keep in mind: 1) It is a minimally invasive option that is performed in the office without incisions or stitches.

2) It doesn’t burn any bridges if someone decides to undergo a surgical lifting procedure in the future.

3) Depending on which area(s) of the face is (are) treated, you could be back at work in as little as 1-2 days. Results are permanent, but take about 4 months to reveal themselves.

4) It can produce around 40-50% of a surgical result at about half the cost of a facelift.

5) Not everyone is a candidate. Thin patients and patients with prominent platysma bands are still better surgical candidates

2633 Napoleon Ave., Ste. 920, New Orleans (504) 533-8848 • www.plasticsurgerynola.com • @PlasticSurgeryNOLA

Editor’s Note

by Leah Draffen

Every year, I write most of the Women IN Business articles. And every year, the women featured never cease to amaze me—their passion, their drive, their commitment not only to their businesses but also their communities and families. I have always been inspired (and somewhat exhausted) while thinking of what they accomplish on a daily basis.

This year has felt a bit different than years past and I believe that is because I’m a mama now. My awe and respect for these women is tenfold. If I’ve learned one thing in my now 9 months of motherhood, it’s that life is a balancing act.

And these women, they have perfected that balancing act.

These CEOS, founders and business owners give their time to so many. Let’s be sure to applaud them and support them. You can start by flipping to page 37 to get inspired.

For more impressive folks, head to page 22. Contributor Sue Strachan sat down with three mother and child duos who work together in their family businesses. It’s a fun read and quite a tell-all… in a warm and fuzzy way!

Something else that will give you the warm and fuzzies (besides this weather) is Anna Tusa’s mimosa bar and spring cocktail ideas on page 75! No matter what you’re looking forward to this spring, we have it covered. Gardening, bright home goods, spring cleaning, farm-fresh veggies...you’ve got it. Although things may be a little different right now, I hope and yours are able to enjoy this season.

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Stay well,

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.

Anna Tusa

Anna Tusa is the Director of Operations for Briquette, the Briquette Wine Room and New Orleans Creole Cookery. On page 75, Anna shares the perfect mimosa bar lineup and bonus spring cocktails.

Ingrid Rinck

Ingrid Rinck is a self-made entrepreneur and CEO of Sensible Meals and has been helping people eat healthier and achieve their weight loss goals since 2014. Ingrid pens ideas on how to uplift other women in business on page 59.

Sue Strachan Sue Strachan has been writing about New Orleans culture for more than 25 years. This is her first article for Inside New Orleans. Sue has been an editor and writer for a number of locallybased publications including Uptown/ Mid-City Messenger, St. Charles Avenue magazine, New Orleans Magazine, New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles, Preservation in Print, Louisiana Life, and was society editor for the Times-Picayune for five years. Her work has been seen internationally in Time Asia and HG magazine. She is regularly featured on Hollywood Highlights on WWLTV’s Great Day Louisiana. In this issue, Sue chats with mother and child work duos on page 22.

Mimi Greenwood Knight Mimi Greenwood Knight is a mother of four and a freelance writer with over five hundred articles and essays in print in national and regional magazines, devotionals and fifty anthologies, including two dozen Chicken Soup for the Soul books. She lives on a small hobby farm in Folsom with her husband, David, where she enjoys gardening, beekeeping, Bible study, knitting and chicken wrangling. In this issue, Mimi writes about the Crescent City Farmers Market on page 30.

Lorin Gaudin Lorin Gaudin has passion for all things food, drink and arts. With a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre from Loyola University of New Orleans, and a culinary diploma from The Ritz-Escoffier in Paris, she parlayed her education to become a food editor/reporter for national, regional and local publications as well as local television and radio. She is an adjunct instructor in Delgado Community College’s culinary program and the host of a food radio show broadcasting from Delgado’s radio station, WXDR 99.1FM. Lorin is the creator-founder of FiveOhFork, specializing in food journalism and culinary social media/web content for the culinary industry. In this issue, Lorin dishes out matzo ball tips on page 76.

Other Voices: Margarita Bergen, Alison Burns, Leah Draffen, Lorin Gaudin, Thomas B. Growden, Melanie Langteau, Melinda Myers and Trent Spann.

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Lists and Passion

Cover Artist Casey Langteau Johnson BEFORE SHE HEADED OFF TO COLLEGE, Casey Langteau Johnson’s dad asked if she would consider a change of majors to nursing. He had found an article listing the worst degrees to have, and Casey’s intended major—graphic design—was on it. Painting, Casey’s true passion, was at the top of the list. Her dad’s request didn’t go as planned, because Casey decided to pursue a painting degree instead. “I figured if it was going to be a terrible degree, I might as well go for the one I really wanted,” she laughs.

The daughter of a professional photographer and granddaughter of an artist, Casey was destined to create. In 12

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third grade, Casey’s teacher noticed she was doodling throughout all of her classes.

Casey was soon placed in an honors program for drawing and after school art lessons.

Following high school and many art classes later, she headed off to LSU from which she graduated in Painting and Drawing.

Working only with palette knives, Casey creates thick, touchable texture with gel mediums and acrylics. The impasto technique brings her coastal creatures of alligators, pelicans, herons, oysters and others to life. These lifelike depictions were part of her first collection, Break Free, released in the fall of last year. The >>

photo: MELANIE LANGTEAU

by Leah Draffen

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photos: MELANIE LANGTEAU

collection’s title came from the events leading up to her present career as a full-time artist. “Five years ago, I was handcuffed to the mindset that I could not make my passion—creating art—a career,” Casey explains. “The choice between having a job that I knew would provide a living, and having a job that I loved, was holding me back. In January of 2019, I finally took a leap of faith and became a full-time artist.”

Casey’s subjects come from a running list she keeps of things that inspire her. She says: “I take that list of roughly 100 different things and I try to incorporate some of those things into the collection releases that I do four to five times a year. However, it is hard to have a creativity block while living in such a beautifully unique place as New Orleans. Living here my entire life, the city has undeniably shaped the art I create.

“It’s impossible to walk through City Park and not stop to admire a crane grazing the lakes beside a perfectly arched oak tree. Or, walk through the French Quarter without dancing and joining in the joyous time had by all around. NOLA is all about the celebration of life. As a city, we indulge in the world’s beauty and the pursuit of a good time.”

Speaking of a good time, Casey’s Champagne bottle

paintings—like our cover—can be found among brass instruments, bountiful blooms, colorful macarons, buzzing bees and hummingbirds. Her work captures the grand elegance of the South and its festive nature all while giving the viewer a sense of calmness and joy.

Casey’s collections can be viewed in her Magazine Street gallery…the space that she rented for just two weeks for her first show last year. She recalls the steps that led to opening the gallery long term: “Finding a space to have my solo show was more difficult than I had thought. I approached every type of business from wedding venues to yoga studios. I realized after viewing my options that I wanted a space that I could design and call my own. I walked up and down magazine street calling phone numbers from for sale and for rent signs. After a lot of paperwork and back and forth, I found the perfect space.” The perfection of that space became even more apparent after her Break Free show.

“The show was phenomenal. I was so shocked by the number of people that attended. I talked to the agent about extending the lease to the end of the year so that I could be there for Christmastime and for people looking to see my work in person. From there, we decided

to extend the lease for the whole year this time!”

The gallery is now home to her art and the many one-on-one conversations she has with her collectors. Casey’s favorite part of being an artist is working with individuals who want a piece that reflects something they love. “Typically, someone comes in wanting something specific that reminds them of someone such as their grandmother and the magnolias they remember in her yard, I get to paint the feelings they remember from their grandmother’s backyard,” she says.

Casey enjoys have the sweet ability to capture memories. But she also enjoys the thought that her paintings will help create future memories. “I love that my painting may be in the background of a collector’s daughter’s birthday party or other celebration. It’s incredible that my artwork can be a part of someone else’s memories with their family.”

And as for Casey’s dad, he’s just as thrilled as she is about Casey’s success—and her choice of majors.

Casey’s gallery is located at 4700 Magazine Street. See more of Casey’s work at caseylangteauart.com.

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INSIDE

Super Saturday at New Orleans City Park

April

1-14 Virtual Crescent City Classic 10K. Experience the fun and excitement of the Allstate Sugar Bowl Crescent City Classic in your own backyard. You pick the course and the time to reach your personal fitness goals! You’ll receive your t-shirt, racing bib and commemorative finisher medallion. Virtual runners will have the chance to finish 6.2 miles, submit their time and see their results against other runners. ccc10k.com.

1-May 23 (NOT) Supposed 2-Be Here Exhibition. Showcasing the works 16

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of artist Brandan “BMike” Odum, the exhibit features brand new site-specific installations, as well as past work, is part retrospective and part future-scape.

Addressing the idea of who or what kind of art belongs in a museum, the show explores four different takes on inclusion drawn across notions of art, race, place, and accessibility. Newcomb Art Museum, Woldenberg Art Center at Tulane University. newcombartmuseum. tulane.edu.

3 16th Annual Ezra Open. The Ezra

Open, presented by Better Than Ezra Foundation, the Riverboat City of New Orleans and Port Orleans Brewing Company, benefits the Better Than Ezra Foundation and their goal to raise money for alternative medicine through music therapy not covered by insurance. Live music by Better Than Ezra, Big Sam’s Funky Nation and Sweet Crude. Enjoy craft, food and more. Woldenberg Park and Bienville St at the Capital One Pavilion, 1 Canal St. 6-11:30pm. $15-$200. eventbrite.com/e/the-16th-

May 9 Super Saturday. Join New Orleans City Park for a morning of volunteering! Meet a little before 9am and work until noon. Always wear closed-toe shoes and sunscreen and bring a water bottle. To sign up and get details on the day’s meet-up location, contact Tyler Havens at thavens@ nocp.org. neworleanscitypark.com.

NOTE: All dates and events are subject to change or cancellation due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

annual-ezra-open-and-the-riverfrontexperience-tickets-97662698761.

4, 11, 18, 25 Champagne Saturdays.

Symmetry Jewelers & Designers, 8138 Hampson St. symmetryjewelers.com.

8 Audubon Supper Club: Dine with the Elephants. Guests will enjoy an exclusive meet and greet with Audubon Zoo animal care staff and learn about the Zoo’s three female elephants: Jean, Surapa and Jothi. Following the tour, a four-course dinner will be served in the Zoo’s iconic Cooper Plaza, amongst >> A p ri l - M ay 2 0 20 17

Inside Scoop the breathtaking bronze elephant fountain designed

by Artist Jocelyn Russell. A ticket to the Supper Club supports Audubon’s conservation work helping fund work across the globe fighting extinction and preserving the local ecosystem. 6500 Magazine St. 6-9pm. $126.73$137.75. audubonnatureinstitute.org/audubon-supperclub.

17 Delgado Foundation 2020 Roast of the Town. The event will roast Clancy DuBos, WWL-TV political analyst and Gambit columnist. Roasters will include Lambert Boissiere Jr., constable of First City Court and former New Orleans City Council member; Ron Faucheux, political analyst and author; Danny Martiny, former State Senator, District 10; Joe Raspanti, attorney and Fox 8 News legal analyst; and Madeleine Landrieu, dean, Loyola University School of Law. Harrah’s New Orleans Theater, 8 Canal St. 7pm. 671-5412. dcc.edu.

18-19 Angola Spring Rodeo and Craft Show. Angola State Prison, Francisville. (225) 655-2060. angolarodeo.com. stfrancisville.us.

21 Swing in the Oaks. Bring your blankets, chairs and picnic fare to this free annual concert on Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn presented by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and City Park. The LPO will be collecting food donations for Second Harvest Food Bank. 6pm. lpomusic. com.

24 Mother’s Day Champagne Stroll. Saintly Skin, 3000 Kingman St, Metairie. 10am-7pm. 475-5510. saintlyskin. com.

25 Dave Chappelle + Joe Rogan. Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Dr. livenation.com.

25 Spring Garden Stroll. The Feliciana Horticultural Society, made up of local area Master Gardeners, hosts the St. Francisville Spring Garden Tour fundraiser. This is a wonderful opportunity to visit and enjoy the unique horticultural environment of West Feliciana Parish and the Town of St. Francisville. All proceeds benefit the local 4-H Scholarship Program and West Feliciana school gardens and other community programs. Ticket available day of at St. Francisville Town Hall, 11936 Ferdinand St. 1-5pm. stfrancisville.us.

27-29 NOLA Crawfish Festival. Crawfish Eating Championship, live music and 6,000 pounds of live crawfish boiled on site. Find more details on page 58. The Smoke Yard @ Central City BBQ, 1201 S Rampart St. 3-10pm. nolacrawfishfest.com.

May

1-2 Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. Featuring 30 bands, Cajun dance contests, and Cajun music workshops. bbcrawfest.com.

1-23 The Art of Stone: Masterpieces in Marble and Pietre Dure. Sculpting in stone is one of humankind’s oldest and most celebrated artistic traditions. Since antiquity, skilled artisans have manipulated agate, malachite, marble, porphyry and other hardstones into exquisite objects and works of lapidary art. M.S. Rau has 18

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carefully curated an impressive selection of hardstone objects from around the world, culminating in this exhibition entitled The Art of Stone. The collection offers the very best hardstone creations ever made by Western artisans. M.S. Rau, 622 Royal St. 523-5660. msrau.com/ hardstone.

1-23 (NOT) Supposed 2-Be Here Exhibition. Showcasing the works of artist Brandan “BMike” Odum, the exhibit features brand new site-specific installations, as well as past work, is part retrospective and part future-scape.

Addressing the idea of who or what kind of art belongs in a museum, the show explores four different takes on inclusion drawn across notions of art, race, place, and accessibility. Newcomb Art Museum, Woldenberg Art Center at Tulane University. newcombartmuseum.tulane. edu.

2 The Revivalists with Neal Francis. The Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal St. 8pm. $45-$75. fillmorenola.com.

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Champagne Saturdays. Symmetry Jewelers & Designers, 8138 Hampson St. symmetryjewelers.com.

2-July 18 Waves: Brilliant Pastels by Jeanne Rosier Smith. Artist demo and opening reception. Degas Gallery, 604 Julia St, Ste 101. Artist demo, 12pm; reception, 6-8pm. 826-9744. thedegasgallery.com.

7 Concerts in the Park: Swing in the Oaks. Presented by Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Bring your lawn chairs, food, and refreshment and enjoy a program of familiar musical favorites from the past and present. Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Blvd, Metairie. 7pm. lpomusic.com.

7 2020 New Orleans Go Red for Women Luncheon.

Purseanality Auction, wellness expo, luncheon and Go Red for Women Fashion Show. Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Ave. 10am-1pm. neworleansgored.heart.org.

8-10 Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival. Live music, all things strawberry and family fun. lastrawberryfestival.com.

9 DBE Silver Tea. Hosted by DBE in Louisiana to benefit the Mountbatten House, an assisted living facility. Fourth floor, 625 St. Charles Ave. 2pm. Hats encouraged. In advance, $40. 367-4116.

15 Sweetarts 2020. An elegant evening, revealed in phases of epicurean delights, visual exploration, and live musical experiences honoring artistic leadership in the New Orleans community. Co-chaired by Alison Diboll and Jane Cooper. Benefiting the Contemporary Arts Center. At the home of Alison Diboll. 7:30-10:30pm. cacno.org.

15-17 Bayou Boogaloo. Music, food and more all to benefit the bayou by planting trees along the bayou and launching anti-litter campaigns among other community initiatives. Find more details on page 58. Bayou St. John. thebayouboogaloo.com.

16 Testimony & Triumph with Shostakovich 5. Presented

by Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Rejoicing in the 250th Anniversary of Beethoven’s birth we’ll open the program with Leonore Overture No. 3. This awe-inspiring symphonic work holds grand structure and brings the brilliance of Beethoven to the concert hall. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way. lpomusic.com.

22-24 New Orleans Greek Festival. Traditional Greek food,

dance, and music all under one roof. In 1973, when the first New Orleans Greek Festival was held, who could have known it would grow to be one of the best local’s festival in New Orleans, hosting over 23,000 annually! 1200 Robert E. Lee Blvd. greekfestnola.com.

23-24 Under the Bridges Arts and Culture Festival. This free two-day music festival is open to the public and takes place in the spring under I-10 between Basin Street & St. Bernard Avenue along North Claiborne Avenue.

Attendees can expect to see live music legends, local cuisine, and crafts, as well as community organizations and city partners who will share the history and significance of these neighborhoods. treme7thwardcd.org.

30 Growing Gardeners. Growing Gardeners, for ages 6-9, travel to exotic lands and learn about different cultures through scent and flavor. Join the New Orleans Botanical Garden as they explore the Botanical Garden’s Aromatic Garden, plant herbs, cook up some delicious treats, and dive into the wondrous world of herbs and spices! There’s so much to do in the Botanical Garden, and they would love to help your child do it all. $17 per child. 4839470. neworleanscitypark.com.

30-31 Oyster Festival. Some of the best oysters in the city, live music, unique craft vendors, oyster competitions from eating to shucking. Woldenberg Park, 1 Canal St. nolaoysterfest.org.

Save the Date

June 1-July 18 Waves: Brilliant Pastels

by Jeanne Rosier Smith. Artist demo and opening reception. Degas Gallery, 604 Julia St, Ste 101. Artist demo, 12pm; reception, 6-8pm. 826-9744. thedegasgallery.com.

June 1–July 17 Academy of the Sacred Heart Summer Camp. Choose your adventure at Sacred Heart! Your camper(s) will enjoy a wide variety of festive and fun summer activities and enrichment opportunities every day. Arts, sports, water fun, music, cheerleading, competitive games, yoga, fitness, sports, track and field, Jump Start and lots more...campers will have a blast on and off campus. This year’s theater camp is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. All programs are directed >> A p ri l - M ay 2 0 20 19

Inside Scoop by experienced, qualified, and dedicated faculty and staff. Lunch is included in the tuition, and before/after-care are available for all camps. For girls and boys, ages 1–13. Camp cost: $230-275 per week (depending camp choice). 269-1230, ashsummercamp@ashrosary.org. ashrosary.org/ summer.

June 5-7 FestiGals. The 2020 FestiGals Women’s Weekend Experience will bring women of all ages and backgrounds together for an enjoyable experience that will feature authentic New Orleans activities, designed for women, by women. festigals.org.

June 13-14 Creole Tomato Festival. Held in the nation’s oldest city marketplace, the Creole Tomato Festival features live music, cooking demonstrations, and the Creole Tomato Parade.

Some of the city’s premier chefs lead the cooking demonstrations, showcasing dishes featuring the Creole tomato as the primary ingredient. French Market. 10am-7pm. frenchmarket.org.

June 17 Art in Bloom. One of the most anticipated events in New Orleans, Art in Bloom showcases spectacular floral designs created by over 100 exhibitors that remain on display at NOMA for four days. Proceeds from Art in Bloom benefit education projects and exhibitions at NOMA and

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community projects of The Garden Study Club of New Orleans. NOMA, One Collins C. Diboll, City Park. Patron party, 6pm; preview party, 7-10pm. noma.org.

June 18-21 Art in Bloom: Open to the Public.

NOMA, One Collins C. Diboll, City Park. View the exhibits: Thurs, 1-7pm; Fri, 10am-6pm; Sat, 10am-5pm; and Sun, 11am-5pm. noma.org.

June 22-28 Restaurant Week. A full week devoted to building connections between the incredible restaurants of New Orleans and the public. The annual tradition features specially-priced prix-fixe menus. Enjoy 2-course lunches for $20 or less, and 3-course dinners and brunches for $39 or less.

This week is the perfect time to visit old favorites or find new ones! restaurantweekneworleans.com.

Aug 28 Zoo-To-Do for Kids. Presented by Children’s Hospital New Orleans LCMC Health.

Meet the animals, inflatables, arcade games, live entertainment, music and more. Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St. Sponsor/patron, 5-9pm; general, 6-9pm. Early admission, $40; general, $25. audubonnatureinstitute.org.

Sept 11 Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do. Enjoy exclusive access to the Zoo, complete with animal encounters, live entertainment, and a selection of the city’s best food and drinks. Your ticket also

supports wildlife conservation and exciting new experiences at Audubon Zoo. 6500 Magazine St. Sponsor/patron, 7-12pm; gala, 8pm-12am. $85$175. audubonnatureinstitute.org.

Oct 1-4 French Quarter Festival. Presented by Chevron, the French Quarter Festival is the largest showcase of Louisiana music in the world. Find more details on page 58. frenchquarterfest.org.

Coming Soon

Congé Family Fest. “To Congé and Beyond” is the theme for Academy of the Sacred Heart’s 2020 Congé. Rides, food, music, games, talent shows and fun. 4301 St. Charles Ave. 5-9pm; April 4, 10am-8pm. ashrosary.org/events/conge.

Freret Street Festival. Port Orleans beer, three stages, 20 bands and 200 local vendors. Find more details on page 58. 11am-6pm. 4405 Freret Street. facebook.com/Freret-StreetFestival-179334215436484.

Louisiana Cajun Zydeco Festival. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation presents the only New Orleans festival that exclusively celebrates Cajun and Zydeco music. Louis Armstrong Park, 701 N Rampart St. jazzandheritage.org.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. The

Who, Lenny Kravitz, Maggie Rogers, Tank and the Bangas, Lionel Richie, The Lumineers, The Beach Boys, Anders Osborne and many more. All purchases for the original dates will be honored for the fall dates. nojazzfest.com.

Southshore Cornhole Competition. The second annual HeartGift Louisiana Crawfish and Cornhole tournament takes place on both shores of Lake Pontchartrain. HeartGift Louisiana arranges travel and medical care for lifesaving heart surgery for children from around the world. Children’s Hospital New Orleans State Street Conference Center.

Registration, $5; start, 6pm. heartgift.org/events/ southshore/.

Top Taco. With amazing live music, creative tequila lounge areas, and some of the best chefs and mixologists in the city, Top Taco is the can’t-miss festival of the spring. Proceeds benefit the PLEASE Foundation. Woldenberg Park, 1 Canal St. 7pm. toptaconola.com.

NOTE: All dates and events are subject to change or cancellation due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Send your event information to scoopINOLA@gmail.com to have it featured in an upcoming issue of Inside New Orleans.

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photo: HANNAH PICKLE

Casi Francis St. Julian and Penny D. Francis.

THE JOB OF BEING A MOTHER is for a lifetime, and for some, it’s not only personal, it’s business.

In honor of Mother’s Day (May 10), Inside New Orleans takes a look at three successful mom and children partnerships and how they thrive and succeed: Penny D. Francis and Casi Francis St. Julian of Eclectic Home; Reagan Charleston Thomas and Lauren Tucker of Reagan Charleston Jewelry; and Ginger Rushing and Erik Germany of Gulf Coast Lanterns.

Unifying the mom entrepreneurs is the desire to offer a unique service, while creating a lasting legacy for their children and grandchildren to carry on.

“Creating experiences and constantly looking to provide unique and custom products not found anywhere else is key to longevity,” says Penny D. Francis, founder and owner of Eclectic Home.

PENNY D. FRANCIS AND CASI FRANCIS ST. JULIAN Penny D. Francis had problems finding finishing touches that she liked for her design projects, so in 2000 she took matters into her own hands, opening Eclectic Home. The store was, and still is, located on Oak Street

challenges. I would say that the positive certainly outweigh the negative aspects.

The early years we were struggling with identifying our roles and how to run a business as professionals, with roles and responsibilities to the business and not be mom and daughter. Our work is all consuming and part of being an entrepreneur. It is necessary for me to turn work off and to continue be a mom to Casi.

Finding a balance between work and family is a constant struggle. I don’t try for perfection. Some days and weeks are better than others with juggling the responsibility of both, and I am ok with that.

Having a legacy is important and I am so very fortunate that Casi and I can work and grow together.

My other daughter, Camryn, is a freshman at SCAD, studying architecture. She’s incredibly talented and to one day have her join us would be just perfect.

Having both the girls build and sustain the business will be my greatest success as a mom and entrepreneur.

Casi: Being the only child for 13 years, you can imagine the bond between my mother and myself. I am naturally very emotional, yet I always wanted to impress her and my dad (Octave J. Francis III).

Work Genes

Mothers and their children who seamlessly meld family and business

before it experienced its post-Katrina blossoming, taking a risk that interior designers, architects, and design aficionados would make their way to her store.

And they did. Through the years, the store expanded and is now 7,000 square-feet of retail space.

She runs it with her daughter, Casi St. Julian, who joined in 2012, after receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts in interior design from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).

In addition to the store, the duo has a design consulting firm for residential and commercial projects throughout the U.S., and have launched exclusive product lines for wall coverings and upholstery, available to retail and design customers, including: the After Dark wallpaper series, designed by St. Julian, which debuted spring 2019 and is now represented around the country; EH Vintage, a collection of vintage furnishings and accessories from around the globe; and launching this spring, the upholstery line, EH Custom.

What are the pluses – and minuses – of working together?

Penny: Working with family certainly has it

by Sue Strachan

If there are issues at work or if things don’t go as planned, I never want to “disappoint” her. That word “disappoint” is one that hurts me to the core! I take so much pride in what I do and create, so it’s sometimes hard to not take things personally which is something we both are still working on.

The minus of us working together is us separating work from family. Sometimes you have to learn how to turn it off, grab a drink, and not talk about installations of any sort!

The plus side is I get to work with someone that I love more than anything. If I worked with anyone else, I know my work ethic wouldn’t be where it is now, and I wouldn’t have been exposed to the things that most designers dream of. We are very blessed, and every year gets better. Crazier, but better.

What are your earliest memories of the business?

Casi: Our first location on Oak Street was a much smaller showroom with more accents and accessories.

We didn’t carry as much furniture as we do now, so it is cool to see how we’ve evolved.

I loved watching my mom meet with clients and >>

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customers during summer, as well as sifting through new fabric books and catalogues to see what the latest trends were and placing new inventory, styling it around the showroom. I am still extremely particular about the showroom and how it’s styled.

Another defining moment was when my mom took me to my first market at about 15 years old. I knew design or retail was something I could do. Now I’m working beside her doing both! Who knew?!

What do you bring to the business?

Casi: I think I bring a more playful approach to design. I have an eye for the more unexpected which balances out with my Mom’s aesthetic a lot. I love that she gives me creative independence 90 percent of the time, which allows me to express myself while still reflecting what the clients want. I always try to come up with ideas to draw in the younger buyer or design client.

What is the quality of your mom you love the most?

I love that my mom is the most hardworking person I know. She’s selfless and determined to always make everyone happy. It’s mind-boggling how she tends to get as much done as she does or wants to accomplish and yet, gets it all done. I love that she doesn’t take herself too seriously and laughs at herself 90 percent of the time. Not to mention, she’s gorgeous and has the best style. The woman does not age!

REAGAN CHARLESTON THOMAS AND LAUREN TUCKER Reagan Charleston is a mix of brains and creativity: not only is she a real estate attorney at Champion Title, where she works with her husband, Reece Thomas, in 2013, she founded Reagan Charleston Jewelry, which offers handcrafted sterling-silver jewelry that is inspired by heritage and architecture. Her mom, Lauren Tucker, and sister, Reina Tucker, who is metalsmith and runs the store, work with Reagan, who is also planning to expand into housewares and clothing.

Reagan also made a name for herself appearing on two seasons of Southern Charm New Orleans. No word on season three just yet.

What are the pluses – and minuses – of working together?

Reagan: Many people have to make time for their family because work is so demanding. But, because work is demanding, I have been able to spend more quality time with my mom.

It’s a beautiful thing to get to work alongside of my mom. Now that I have my daughter, it’s three generations working together in my jewelry studio. And,

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that’s just how I was raised, watching my mother and grandmother craft copper sculptures and forge metal in their studios.

What are your earliest memories of working with your mother?

Reagan: Watching her cut giant swaths of copper that my grandfather would solder, which my grandmother, grandfather, and mother would then shape and paint to create large sculptures and fountains.

I still remember the sparks flying from their torches as they shaped and soldered their pieces.

It was such a creative environment. My earliest “babysitters” were the artists working under their tutelage in their art studios, who would practice their skills by making me tiny treasures and gifts.

What is your first memory of Reagan’s business?

Lauren: When Reagan decided to expand her jewelry business and asked me to be a part of her operation, I remember marveling at how things amazingly had come full circle in my own life.

I grew up working with my parents in our family art business, Coghlan Gallery in the French Quarter, but had eventually focused more on raising my family.

Now with an empty nest, Reagan’s jewelry business was a fabulous opportunity to get back into a creative business, reminiscent of our family roots.

What do you bring to the business?

Lauren: With a background in visual art, I have always worked in some type of creative capacity. Where I first worked with large-scale metalworks, I recently undertook a study in jewelry metalsmithing to hone my skills and learn new techniques that are used in the execution of Reagan’s original designs.

Reagan: I bring a fresh perspective. I didn’t just want to create art, I wanted to create wearable art inspired by the very things that inspired the two generations before me—nature and architecture.

What is the quality in your child that you admire the most?

Lauren: Reagan is so accomplished that she has too many admirable qualities to list!

There are her obvious successes with her education and law degree, her many talents that have afforded her opportunities in business and media, but as her mom, I would say that her dedication to her family and precious daughter are most paramount.

I treasure the time that she, Reina and I spend working in both the store and studio. Now having my granddaughter Reecie with us, makes work a joyous occupation! >>

photo: REINA TUCKER

Reagan Charleston Thomas and Lauren Tucker.

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Erik Germany, Ginger Rushing and Cory Germany.

GINGER RUSHING, ERIK GERMANY AND CORY GERMANY Ginger Rushing has been in the lighting business for 40 years. Starting as part-time employee at a local lighting company, she worked her way up to a national company, then moving to Lighting Inc. before striking out on her own in 2007 with Gulf Coast Lanterns.

Her son, Erik Germany, who owns Pro Pool and Spa Services, suggested that she open a showroom, and in 2017, he joined her as a partner when they opened it on N. Columbia Street in Covington. The store showcases and sells gas and electric outdoor copper lanterns also available online at gulfcoastlanterns.com and gascopperlanterns.com. Ginger’s grandson, Cory Germany, also works in the showroom processing online orders.

But the family always helps each other out: “We do some of everything,” says Ginger.

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What are the pluses – and minuses – of working together?

Ginger: I know I can count on them [Erik and Cory] to show our customers the same respect and consideration that I always have, which is a key element to our success: Always treat the customer the same way you would want to be treated.

What is your first memory of your business?

Ginger: Learning how to build a business online, working 18 hours a day and wondering if I had lost my mind.

Getting up every day and telling myself, ‘Yes I can do this!’

What is your first memory working at the business?

Erik: Meeting Ginger (mom) at 401 N Columbia St. to see if we liked the space for our new showroom. We loved it so we wrote the realtor a deposit check on the spot. It’s real now.

What do you bring to the business?

Ginger: I began working part-time with lighting in 1980 for a local lighting showroom. That job lasted for ten years and helped propel me into a position with a national company that allowed me to support my son

photo: THOMAS B. GROWDEN

What is the quality in your mom that you admire the most?

Reagan: As a person, my mom is the most patient and lovely woman in the entire world. Her kindness and positive outlook are inspiring. My mom supports our every endeavor and always offers advice and support.

As an artist, my mom can pick up a new trade or skill so easily and effortlessly. I wish I had that finesse.

and myself when I became a widow.

So, I would have to say that my experience is what I bring to the table and my respect for my customers. Also, very important to my success are long relationships with my vendors, primarily The Coppersmith. Relationships and trust are everything in this business.

The old saying is that in the lighting business we only get an opportunity to sell to the end user once every seven years, so I learned early on that great customer relations is everything, both with my own customers and with my vendors.

Even though we do about 80 percent of our business online, we offer those customers the same one-on-one service that we share with our showroom customers.

What do you bring to the table to the business?

Erik: An overall positive attitude, determination to succeed, and an understanding of customer service is the key to acquiring and maintaining longlasting business relationships.

What is the quality in your son that you admire the most?

Ginger: I would have to say loyalty, work ethic and dedication to be the best husband and father he can possibly be.

With three small active girls at home, his life is filled to overflowing. Erik and his wife support each other in their careers, and he likes and respects women (and hope I can take some credit for that).

It’s that quality that makes it easier for me, as his mom, to pass on what I’ve learned in these 40 years. He also has a very good eye for detail, which helps keep our paperwork straight!

What is the quality in your mom that you admire the most?

Erik: There are many and in regard to the business, it is her perseverance. The fact that she built websites from the ground up, manages them daily, and is always working on new strategies for growing.

I had no idea what all was involved, and I’m impressed daily with her knowledge of lighting and lanterns.

(Note: Answers have been edited from original interviews.)

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Home & Garden

Bees Please Creating a Garden for You and Pollinators

by Melinda Myers

You don’t need a prairie or large lot to attract and support pollinators. A meadow or informal, formal and even container gardens can bring in bees, butterflies and hummingbirds to help pollinate plants. It’s just a matter of selecting the right plants, adjusting your maintenance practices, and skipping the pesticides.

Create your garden by converting a few square feet of lawn, garden bed or front yard into a pollinatorfriendly garden. You may want to start by switching out part of an existing garden or container to more pollinator-friendly flowers.

Expand your planting options by converting a portion of your lawn into a pollinator garden. Outline the bed with a hose or rope. Remove the sod, add compost as needed to improve drainage and you’ll be ready to plant.

Simplify and dress up your efforts by using an easyto-assemble raised garden kit like the pollinator garden bed (gardeners.com). Its long-lasting cedar planks slide into aluminum corners to create a hexagonal bed. Get creative while increasing the garden’s size by adding additional sections to create a honeycomb or other interesting design.

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Mark the outline of the raised bed you select. Cut the grass short and cover with newspaper. Set your raised bed in place and fill with a quality planting mix.

Mulch four to six inches surrounding the raised bed for ease of mowing and to eliminate the need to hand trim.

Once your planting bed is prepared, you’re ready to go. Include single daisy-like black-eyed Susans, coneflowers, and asters that allow visiting insects to rest and warm when sipping on nectar or dining on pollen. Add a few tubular flowers for butterflies and hummingbirds.

They both like bright colors and can be seen visiting salvias, penstemon and nasturtiums. And don’t forget the bees that are attracted to bright white, yellow, blue and ultraviolet colors. You’ll find them visiting these and other

blossoms like catmint, sweet alyssum and perennial geranium.

Include spring, summer and fall bloomers to keep pollinators visiting and well fed throughout the season. You’ll enjoy the seasonal changes along with the color and motions the visitors provide.

Include early spring perennials and bulbs to attract visitors in early spring as they search for much-needed food. Add fall flowers to help prepare them for winter or migration to their winter homes. Those in milder climates will want to add some pollinator-friendly flowers to support and attract pollinators wintering in their backyard.

Plant flowers in groups for greater design impact and to reduce the energy pollinators expend when gathering nectar and pollen from one flower to the next.

Provide plants with enough space to reach their mature size. Temporarily fill in voids with annuals like salvia, single zinnias and nicotiana that also attract pollinators.

Don’t let all the plant and design possibilities overwhelm you into inaction.

Gardener’s Supply Company has plans for designing gardens to attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds plus tips on keeping them safe in your garden. Mulch the soil with leaves annually. It suppresses weeds, conserves moisture, improves the soil and provides homes for many beneficial insects.

Allow healthy plants and grasses to stand for winter. These provide homes for many beneficial insects and food for birds. Wait as long as possible to clean up your garden in spring. If needed, pile clippings out of the way to allow beneficial insects to escape these winter homes once temperatures warm. Then shred and compost the plant debris in summer.

As your gardens flourish, you will want to create more pollinator-friendly spaces.

Your efforts will be rewarded with beautiful flowers, increased harvest and the added color and motion these visitors provide.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Gardeners Supply for her expertise to write this article.

Her website is melindamyers.com.

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Crescent City Farmers Market 25 Years of Bringing Farmers to the City and New Orleanians to the Table WITH A SIMPLE HANDSHAKE, the Crescent City Farmers Market began 25 years ago. No lease. No talk of insurance.

And no idea where such an endeavor might lead, in a city not exactly known for healthy lifestyle choices. What it has become is one of the country’s quintessential farm-totable programs with six thriving market locations around the city; arms that help make fresh, local food available to schools and area welfare programs, educational platforms that teach children and adults about healthy food choices; philanthropic branches that help support local farm families; and more.

Since 1995, Crescent City Farmers Market has not only helped make NOLA citizens healthier, but has provided our local farmers, ranchers, fishers, beekeepers, herbalists, mushroom-tenders, dairy folk, horticulturalists, orchard growers, shepherds, and artisan chefs and bakers with the ability to earn a living doing what they do best. Charise Poche is one of them. She and her husband have been selling their seasonal fruits and veggies at the markets since 2013. They farm on a six-acre micro-farm in Independence, Louisiana, with help from their two grown kids, Billie and Camille. “Small farms do not get much support from the community and none from the government,” says Poche.

“We do all our work ourselves and sell mostly to individual consumers with a lot of good customers coming to our table at the market, every week.”

Poche says it’s a misconception that shopping at the farmers market is expensive. “As local farmers, we don’t have to charge state taxes,” she says. “And farmers market food doesn’t go bad like the food from the store, because what we’re selling today, we picked yesterday. So, it tastes better and it’s not consuming all that fossil fuel being shipped across the country.”

The farmers market allows New Orleans area citizens to buy food directly from vendors like the Poches; folks who grew it, raised it, caught it, cultivated it, baked or cooked it, providing that crucial link between urban dwellers and farmers, and offering local citizens the opportunity to support small, family-owned businesses. Everything sold at the markets was grown, raised, or caught within 200 miles of New Orleans. Much of it is organic or “certified naturally grown” and all is sustainably produced.

In a city where public markets have long been a vital thread of the social fabric, market organizers work >>

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photo: MICHAEL PALUMBO

by Mimi Greenwood Knight

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market products. When they do, the market matches up to $20 of their purchase at each visit to be used on fruits and vegetables, so they go home with even more fresh food, and also learn cooking tips and how to stretch their dollars, by purchasing at the peak of each season. They also participate in the USDA Farmers Market Nutrition Program that distributes vouchers to seniors and WIC recipients to use shopping at the markets.

“The farmers market can be more affordable than the grocery store, if you understand what time of year to shop for which items,” says Parker. “We want to get that message out to the people who need to hear it.” Since 2008, the Market Match program has helped more than 2,500 New Orleans households who need a little extra help putting healthy food on the table. And Market Umbrella partners with local hospitals and clinics to teach healthy cooking classes to parenting groups.

The market is a fun place for kids, not just because there’s usually live, local music but there are kids’ programs like the Marketeers Club where kids under 12 participate in activities such as making healthy pizza or churning butter, 32

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learn surprising facts about the food they eat, and receive special treats on their birthdays.

Then there are the school programs. As partners of the National Farm to School Network, Market Umbrella connects farms to school food providers, school garden instructors, school nutrition authorities, educators, and anyone involved in school food programs. They offer hands-on market fieldtrips where local school kids meet farmers and other purveyors face to face. “Meet Me at the Market is often the first place local kids encounter the families who produce the food they eat,” says Parker. “Pre-kindergarten through sixth-grade kids meet farmers, learn to identify produce, and learn that food is not just something that comes from a shelf in the grocery store.”

Afterwards, grant funds provide participating children from majority low-income schools with fresh produce and a recipe for preparing it.

Market Umbrella is also partnering with Sprout NOLA to help ten local schools establish or refurbish school vegetable gardens. LSU Ag also provides schools with Louisiana Harvest of the Month toolkits that include educational and marketing materials for teachers and school staff featuring local produce.

Market Mommas Club is a breastfeeding incentive program that allows mothers and mothers-to-be currently eligible for Louisiana Medicaid to partner with a breastfeeding peer group and receive a Market Mommas Card. The moms attend breastfeeding support groups where they can meet other nursing moms and ask questions of lactation professionals. Their card is stamped at the meeting. Then they can bring it to any Crescent City Farmers Market to receive $80 in tokens to spend at the market, each month for up to 6 months. “The goal is to get Mom as healthy as possible, so she can breastfeed as long as possible, because we know that’s the best thing for her and her baby,” says Parker.

Market Umbrella’s Crescent Fund helps vendors who’ve experienced damage from disasters such as hurricanes or floods or the loss of a primary operator of the family business.

After the August 2016 floods, for instance, they granted assistance to farmers who experienced severe flooding with all donations going directly to the families affected. “When a farm goes under, there’s a ripple effect that impacts the farm family, their employees, and the community at large,” says Parker.

“It’s important that we support our local farmers, so we can keep the food here in Louisiana.”

Crescent City Farmers Markets are held Tuesdays Uptown at Uptown Square, Wednesdays in the Bywater at the Crescent Park and Ochsner Rehabilitation Center in Jefferson, Thursdays in Mid-City on Orleans Avenue at the American Can Company, Fridays in Bucktown at the Harbor, and Saturdays Downtown. And as Louisiana seasons are ever changing, the market is different each week.

“New Orleans is a place where we eat lunch and talk about dinner,” says Parker. “The Crescent City Farmers Market is the place New Orleanians can find the best Louisiana has to offer in fruits, vegetables, seafood, meats, dairy, and artisan foods. Our organization is nothing without the local food producers and wouldn’t exist without the support of the local community.” See you at the market!

photo: MICHAEL PALUMBO

hard—and innovatively—to make the market experience friendly and approachable. And at a time when most large US cities include food desserts where residents have no access to affordable, nutritious foods, Crescent City Farmers Market locations are strategically placed around the city to offer everyone a fair shot at eating right. “Our mission is to support the local food economy and bolster farmers, ranchers, and fishermen. But it’s also to make nutritious food accessible to everyone,” says Kate Parker, Executive Director of Market Umbrella, the New-Orleans-based 501(c) (3) that runs the markets. “Our vendors take pride in what they do. They love nothing more than answering questions about their products and their farms. We encourage shoppers to ask farmers, ‘How should I prepare this?’ Often, they’ll have a recipe on hand they can give the shopper, and there are always recipes on our website.”

Another way they make healthy food available is through participation in the Market Match program.

Qualified recipients can use their SNAP benefit card at the market’s welcome tent to purchase tokens used to buy

AS MORE COMMUNITIES DEAL with outbreaks of COVID-19, those at risk are being advised to stay home and stock up to protect themselves.

But experts say the need to hunker down does not mean people shouldn’t reach out to help.

“When there’s a time of anxiety, that is not a time to pull back from connectedness,” says Dr. Franklin Watkins, associate professor in geriatric medicine at Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

“That’s a time that we actually need to lean into social connectedness and lean into our family members and our friends and acquaintances.”

The disease does call for precautions and for staying up to speed with the constantly evolving statistics and advice. That’s particularly important for those in higherrisk groups: older adults or people who have underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, weak immune systems or lung disease.

Those precautions include keeping such people from places where they might be exposed to the coronavirus— such as a grocery store or a pharmacy full of sick people, says Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, during an AARP teleconference on March 10.

“So, for example, we’re recommending that you have supplies on hand, like medications for blood pressure and diabetes, and over-the-counter medications and medical supplies, and have enough household items and groceries so that you can stay at home for a period of time,” she says. “Because you may need to stay at home or at least closer to home for a couple weeks, especially if there is spread in your community.”

Higher-risk people also should avoid close contact with people who are sick, Messonnier says. “If your grandchild is expected to come visit and they have a fever and a runny nose, it may not be the right time for them to visit you.”

Listen closely to the CDC’s advice, Watkins recommends. That does not mean you need to make a panicky run to the warehouse store to fill your SUV with toilet paper, he says. Focus on the basics.

And it does not mean abandoning loved ones or neighbors in isolation. Watkins says if you can’t physically visit someone, even a simple phone call can help. “By all means, stay connected.”

Messonnier says, “If you’re delivering food to somebody and you’re leaving it at the door, and then they’re opening the door, you are perfectly safe. There’s no risk.”

Watkins says if you’re making an extended visit, it would be wise to keep a six-foot distance. “Would I be afraid to hug someone I love? Not necessarily,” he says.

“But I would try to limit close contact if I had a high-risk person that I was worried about.”

Staying Connected While Hunkering Down Author Liz O’Donnell, founder of the caregiving website WorkingDaughter.com, says adults with older parents have been anxious about quarantines at long-term care facilities. “I see some caregivers talking about, ‘Should I bring my parents home if they’re living in a facility?’” she says. “And I think one of the things we think about there is, would you be able to care for your parents if they were indeed to get sick while they were living with you?”

If a care facility goes into quarantine or prohibits visitors, family members should be comfortable asking questions, O’Donnell says. “How are the residents being socialized? Or how are they being isolated? Is my mother OK? Is my father getting his medication? Is he scared?”

At the same time, she says, people need to have “a high amount of compassion also for the workers.”

For loved ones who live on their own, she suggests people ask the same sort of questions that might help them prepare for a blizzard. Do they have a cellphone or tablet computer they’re comfortable using? Is it charged?

Is there a neighbor you can call if you can’t reach your parents?

Caregivers also can provide a calming presence—and help an at-risk person get accurate information, O’Donnell says. Don’t minimize the risks, she says, but listen and address any fears they might have.

And then help them make sense of it: “‘So Mom— here’s what we know, here’s what the CDC has said, here’s what I’m doing for you. Don’t worry about what Aunt Janet just sent.’”

This article is courtesy of the American Heart Association.

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Home and Garden 2020

essentials

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1. Laurel wreath candle holder, $65. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, 985-624-4045.

2. Georgetown portable rechargeable flame lantern. Gulf Coast Lanterns, 800-9103275, gulfcoastlanterns.com. 3. Mid-century modern style table lamp with antique teal metal base and turned hardwood neck. Mix and match shades and finials. As shown, $475. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, 522-9485, bevolo.com. 4. Pawley’s Island Poolside hammock in Sunbrella™ sling fabric, $199.99; Tri-Beam® hammock stand, $219.99.

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Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 893-8008.

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Home and Garden 2020

Resource Listings

Auraluz 4408 Shores Dr., Metairie 504-888-3313 shopauraluz.com Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights 521 Conti or 318 Royal, New Orleans 68467 Hwy. 59, Mandeville 504-522-9485 bevolo.com Fur.Nish 3413 N Causeway Blvd., Metairie 504-702-8514 furnishnola.com Godwyn & Stone Brokerage 1912 Clearview Pkwy, Suite 200, Metairie 504-826-8426 godwynstone.com Greige Home Interiors 2033 N Hwy 190 #10, Covington 985-875-7576 greigehome.com Gulf Coast Lanterns 401 N Columbia St, Covington 800-910-3275 gulfcoastlanterns.com Hilltop Shoppe 3714 Magazine St., New Orleans 504-533-9670

J&J Exterminating 416 Commerce Point, New Orleans 504-833-6305 jjext.com Niche Modern Home 1901 U.S. 190 Suite 3, Mandeville 985-624-4045 nichemodernhome.com NOLA Lending 504-355-5121 nolalending.com NOLA Rugs 300 Jefferson Hwy., Ste 401, New Orleans 504-891-3304 nolarugs.com Nordic Kitchens and Baths 1818 Veterans Blvd., Metairie 504-888-2300 nordickitchens.com Outdoor Living Center 1331 N Hwy 190 #600, Covington 985-893-8008 outdoorlivingcenter.com Southland Plumbing 2321 North Arnoult Rd., Metairie 504-835-8411 southlandplumbingsupply.com

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table of contents 42 Ingrid Rinck

Sensible Meals 43 Joni Friedmann-Lagasse

Dependable In Home Care 44 Bonnie Boyd

BBC Destination Management 45 Reagan Charleston

Reagan Charleston Jewelry 46 Tara Ledoux

Clearview Center 47

Camille Collins, Tabitha McCabe, Monica Castillo, Barbara Johnson, Bridget Perkins and Valerie Landry Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts

49 Brittany Picolo-Ramos

Godwyn & Stone Brokerage 51 Sharon Schenck

NOLA Rugs, Inc. 53 A Legacy of Trailblazing

Ursuline Academy of New Orleans 54 April Watson

Blue Williams 54 Anna Tusa

Briquette and

New Orleans Creole Cookery 55 Larissa Littleton-Steib, Ph.D.

Delgado Community College

55 Jessica Marasco Illes and Madeline Browning

Edward Jones

56 Bonnie Sarver

Gulf South Accounting

Services, LLC 56 Mary-Martin France

Hilltop Shoppe

Sponsor Newman-Dailey Resort Properties

57 Alison L. Burns, MBA

Precision Payment Systems

Event Patron

58 Megan Naccari

Saintly Skin

Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard 38

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57 Jeanne Dailey Newman-Dailey

Resort Properties

Owning Our Voice

Laura Veazey and Anne Delery McWhorter.

photos courtesy: QUIET CALM

QUIET CALM, LLC

Quiet Calm, LLC, is a Louisiana based company that invents, manufactures, and designs sensory accommodations for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other disabilities for use across the world. Anne Delery McWhorter, who was born in New Orleans and a Louisiana native, began the company to produce medical grade therapy materials based on materials she had designed for her son, Michael. Sensory rooms and sensory kits designed by Quiet Calm, LLC, became the standard accommodation across the United States to assist autism and related disorders in disaster responses in addition to homes, medical facilities, and public institutions. As a disability-owned company, Quiet Calm, >> A p ri l - M ay 2 020 39

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photos courtesy: QUIET CALM

LLC, also offers public speaking and autism acceptance trainings. Quiet Calm, LLC, has worked with initiatives around the globe, as far away as Saudi Arabia and Malaysia.

Another sector Anne and Quiet Calm, LLC, focuses on is educating and understanding the issue of domestic violence in Louisiana. Because she is a domestic violence survivor, she is committed to ending the stigma for survivors and making all trauma centers disability inclusive. Public speaking, trainings, and legislative testimony individually and through Quiet Calm, LLC, have been used to influence national protocols in disaster shelters, policy and public opinion on this multi-faceted issue.

During the Louisiana Legislative Session of 2019, Anne was instrumental in passing bills related to autism, domestic violence, and the need for medical cannabis for hospice and epilepsy patients. While in Baton Rouge, she encountered the most dynamic woman she had ever met, Laura Veazey, the owner of Focus Strategies, LLC. Focus Strategies of Louisiana is a fullservice advocacy firm which specializes in government relations, marketing communications, issues management and fund development. In 2018, Laura also joined a4media, a division of national cable television provider Altice USA, as a Senior Account Executive providing clients with screenagnostic audience digital targeting in public affairs, issue advocacy, political advertising strategy, and corporate PR advertising campaigns.

Laura operates on the cutting edge of advocacy. Using traditional, digital, and earned media she has used the legislative process to not only build support for her clients’ needs within, but also outside of the Capitol in the community. This has resulted in wins that have lasting impact for her clients. She has worked effectively across party lines to achieve unprecedented results

for her clients, including securing millions of dollars in funding and is proud to represent clients who concentrate on improving their communities.

A synchronistic approach began between the companies with Laura consulting for Quiet Calm, LLC, and Anne becoming a registered lobbyist for Focus Strategies. The partnership has flourished through the core tenets of empowering other women and improving the lives of families, which is always at the forefront of all initiatives. Laura’s over 15 years of experience spanning public relations, governmental relations, fundraising, advocacy and political campaigns coupled with Anne’s scientific experience has led to some amazing projects for Louisiana. Projects through the Lieutenant Governor’s Office of Billy Nungesser to bring a state-of-the-art sensory room to the Louisiana museum system in addition to a disability accessible curriculum was announced in October.

And if this weren’t enough, they are also working on another joint venture. Owning Our Voice Coalition is a nonprofit started by Laura to help domestic violence survivors with a focus on day-to-day challenges vulnerable women are faced with in seeking independent financial empowerment, issues of stigma and the barriers those create when women seek safety in the legal system.

When designing the nonprofit, Laura and Anne incorporated their joint knowledge on the intersection between domestic violence, disability and trauma with belief systems of empowering women of all backgrounds in a judgement free manner.

Laura and Anne look forward to the future and cannot wait to see what other avenues will become available to make a difference in people’s lives throughout Louisiana and beyond.

For more information, please visit quietcalmllc.com and focus-strategy.com.

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Ingrid Rinck SENSIBLE MEALS

Celebrating ten years as an entrepreneur and female business owner, Ingrid Rinck continues to evolve. Every day, she aims to further improve both Sensible Meals and the lives of her clients. With no business partners, loans or formal education, Ingrid started two successful businesses based on hard work and referrals from her evergrowing client base.

Sensible Meals, based out of the Greater New Orleans area, is one of the largest meal companies in the country employing over 1,000 individuals. And the company’s fresh, chef-prepared meals are getting even better. “We’re continually improving our meals and adding to our menu,” says Ingrid. “Our products have always been great, but we’re upgrading while listening to our clients’ feedback. Very often, we have former clients who return to find that our meals are even better than they remember!”

This year, Sensible Meals has begun using a multi-milliondollar machine that vacuum seals the perfectly portioned meals.

“We’re one of three companies in the country that has this special machinery and we’re so happy that our clients are able to enjoy its benefits. There’s no need for gas or preservatives to be used,” she adds.

Looking ahead to the next ten years, Ingrid is excited to keep helping clients lose weight or maintain their healthy weight.

Balancing life as a successful entrepreneur and mom-of-three, Ingrid also finds time to help single mothers in our community. Ingrid founded the Leading Ladies League, which gathers other women business owners and leaders for a themed luncheon every month.

“Instead of having lunches to enjoy our own blessings, we join together and donate to help one woman each month,” Ingrid explains. “If we hand a single mother $1,000, it could change her entire world. So, we focus on helping to change one woman’s life every month. It’s very fulfilling to be able to bless someone else.”

Find Ingrid on Facebook and Instagram @ingridrinck and Sensible Meals @sensiblemeals. Eatsensiblemeals.com.

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Joni Friedmann-Lagasse DEPENDABLE IN HOME CARE

As the region’s only nationally accredited caregiver registry, Dependable In Home Care gives families and those cared for peace of mind.

Owner Joni Friedmann-Lagasse says: “No other caregiver service in the area can boast our credentials. We provide access to a vetted pool of nearly 150 experienced professionals, including direct service workers and certified nursing assistants. All of the caregivers on the registry have a minimum of two years of hands-on experience and have passed drug screenings and national background checks.

“Our business model is a win-win for the family and the caregiver.

That’s one of the reasons we have been successful and have been able to compete with other home care choices and national franchises.” The business model allows families to pay less for care and the caregivers to make more for the care they provide.

When sharing about her personal life and her business, Joni says, “They’re one and the same.” While Joni was a child, her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. “From 7 years old to 14, I helped my mom care for my father along with help from ladies coming into our home. In 1969, after he passed, my mom and a business partner started the company because of the need for non-medical, in-home care.”

The successful company was born in Joni’s childhood home. Some eight years later while Joni was working in Texas, her mom called, needing help with the business. “If you knew my mom, you knew she was a great entrepreneur—she could sell ice cubes to Eskimos,” Joni laughs. “I found

When asked about her passion for the industry, Joni adds: “One of

myself back with my mom. Five years later, she passed away leaving me at

my favorite aspects of this business is empowering the caregivers that work

28 years old with that phone and Rolodex.”

through the registry. With many of them female and head of household,

Joni, after seeing the need for in-home care up close and personal most

the registry allows them to control their own schedule and accept their own

of her life, believed in the registry model and pushed Dependable further. “It

placement, unlike an employer-employee relationship. It is very rewarding

was hard work, and no one really wanted to do private in home care—it wasn’t

for me to see their success.”

a big money maker. My experience at home made me want to help others who needed in home care. By 1980, the caregiver industry was beginning to evolve. I spent a lot of time on the hill in Washington with people like me talking to congressmen and senators to lobby for the legislation we needed to continue our efforts. I believe we did a lot of good for the caregiver industry and for the people who need access to affordable care.”

Dependable In Home Care is located at 702 N Carrollton Ave. in New Orleans. 504-486-5044. dependablecare.net.

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Her partners, clients, contractors, vendors, present and past employees not only see Bonnie as an inspiration, but as a friend and confidant. Her enthusiastic love for the city is contagious. It is this same passion that makes her a driving force as a female business owner, dedicated mentor and friend, industry leader and community volunteer. She adds about other females in the industry and beyond: “It is critically important that we as women serve as mentors for the future generations. As more women take on new leadership roles, they look to us for guidance. It is our duty and our privilege to assist them and support them.”

Since her beginnings, she has maintained the same hands-on

Bonnie Boyd

BBC DESTINATION MANAGEMENT Bonnie Boyd founded BBC Destination Management on April Fool’s

ownership and has played a pivotal role in shaping her dynamic team into the respected industry experts they are today. This is demonstrated in the level of professionalism exemplified by her employees who continue to uphold her signature standard of excellence. Today, Bonnie’s company

Day in 1992. And she wasn’t kidding around! “Since the early ‘80s, I have

boasts a passionate team that is equally as active in industry organizations,

been working in event planning in New Orleans,” Bonnie says. “My roots

from regional to international board positions.

in this city go back generations, and I realized there was no one more knowledgeable—and passionate—about my hometown than me.”

With over 30 years of experience, Bonnie Boyd is a constant advocate

“We get to know each client and the culture of the group being represented,” she says. “New Orleans is an embarrassment of riches and it’s all about creativity, connections and memory-making. We know every

for the DMC industry and a New Orleans ambassador. In 1980, her

bougainvillea plant and venue in the city. We know every hole-in-the-wall

career began with a company (before the term Destination Management

bar, every gallery, every vendor. When a client wanted to host a ‘super

Company) was referred to as a “Ground Operator” in the French Quarter. In

workout’ for 17,000 people right in the middle of town, we closed the

1982, she began working with the founder of the first DMC in New Orleans,

streets and made history!”

Dietrich Tours and Entertainment. By the late ‘80s she was associated with Capricho DMC, an industry leader and the first creatively focused DMC in the city. Throughout these early years, she expanded her involvement in the DMC industry, and even paid her own way to trade shows as far as Canada because she knew it was the best way to promote her services and the city.

Her involvement with local cultural boards, as well as regional, national and global industry boards deepened her commitment and experience.

As President & CEO Bonnie of BBC Destination Management, Bonnie is known as a leader in the DMC industry, both locally and internationally.

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BBC Destination Management is located at 832 Baronne St. in New Orleans. 504-523-9700. bbcdmc.com.

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love to see how people incorporate my work not only into their everyday lives but also their momentous milestones.” From grooms donning cufflinks and lapel pens to brides choosing statement necklaces, bracelets and earrings, many of Reagan’s clients wear her designs for their special day.

Recently, Reagan had two groom clients who went off to South Africa for a destination wedding. “The entire bridal party was decked out in Leone pieces.

It was stunning. When you choose a piece of jewelry for your wedding, that’s huge. To see my work in those moments, it’s an incredible feeling.”

Reagan recently launched a Petites collection which are smaller versions of her original statement designs. This spring, Reagan will be rolling out new collections including a New Orleans collection to be released during French Quarter Festival and a resort collection perfect for summer travels.

Being a family business, Reagan cherishes working in the studio alongside her sister and mother. She says, “It’s in our blood. I know my daughter is going to grow up in this creative environment that I didn’t realize how lucky I was to be in. As a child it wasn’t exciting, but now I know it shaped me not just in the creative sense, but also in the entrepreneurial sense. While watching my grandparents build a very successful international business, the lessons were learned; and I wasn’t even aware of it.”

While growing her business, Reagan also achieved that law degree she always planned on. She now practices real estate law and sits on the Sideline Pass board that works to raise scholarship funds for young women in need in New

Reagan Charleston

REAGAN CHARLESTON JEWELRY Growing up in her grandparents’ art galleries, Reagan Charleston never thought she would work in the arts. “My mom is a copper sculpture artist and so were my grandparents, but I never saw myself doing something creative. I wanted to go to law school and that was that. I had a very traditional roadmap,” Reagan recalls.

In 2013, inspiration sparked during her second trip to Florence, Italy.

“I fell in love with everything there—especially the lion doorknockers that are on almost every door.” Lions were also a vivid memory of Reagan’s childhood at her grandparents’ Toulouse Street gallery adjacent to the Court of Two Lions. “After my trip, I wanted to make a piece to commemorate my special

Orleans and the Gulf Coast area. “As a woman in business and a mother, I feel

connection to Florence and those lions. I found a wax artist and had the lion

empowered. It’s challenging of course, but the rewards are tremendous. I know

doorknocker piece carved. As soon as I started wearing it, people began asking

that I will push my daughter to do things for herself as well,” she adds. “I never

about it. I couldn’t go anywhere without someone asking where I got it—and

saw myself doing this for a living, but it found me. I feel very fortunate and I love

that’s when the light bulb went off.”

knowing that if you have a vision for something, you can bring it to life.”

Six years later, Reagan has now sold thousands of those lion doorknockers to clients all over the world. In 2015, European luxury retailer Luisa Via Roma began carrying Reagan’s pieces and in October 2018, she opened her own brick and mortar at Canal Place. Reagan appreciates the opportunity to meet so many clients including those who travel to New Orleans just to come to her store.

“There’s a lot of unknowns when opening a store, but this has been a magical way to meet our customer base. It has given me an entirely different

Reagan Charleston Jewelry is located at

perspective of my clientele than when I was 100 percent online,” she says. “I

333 Canal Street, Ste 200A, and online at reagancharleston.com.

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Tara Ledoux

CLEARVIEW CENTER

Growing up in Jefferson parish, General manager Tara Ledoux, has many fond memories of Clearview Shopping Center. “As a young girl I

outdoor event space and rooftop restaurants.

Tara, having a passion for the shopping center industry, is

can remember shopping for dresses at Maison Blanche and having lunch

excited to see this vision come to fruition. “There is a demand

with my grandmother at A & G Cafeteria,” she reflects. “Clearview has

in Jefferson Parish for the many amenities that Clearview will be

always been a part of my life is some fashion. When I was offered the

bringing to the area.” The opportunities at the new Clearview

position as GM in 2006, I could not pass up the opportunity.”

City Center will be endless- with visual streetscapes, open spaces,

Over the past 20 years, Tara has seen the center evolve to meet the needs of the ever-changing retail industry. “The last major expansion of Clearview was in 2002 which included the addition of Target, Bed Bath

festivals, food trucks, farmers markets, office towers, restaurants nightlife and more.” She added.

Tara owes her success as a business woman to her parents who

& Beyond and AMC Movie Theatre.” In December of 2019, Clearview

were exemplary in pushing her to always work hard and to achieve

held a press conference announcing the plans to redevelop the site

her goals. “My parents have influenced my work ethic in many ways

into a dynamic, mixed-use destination. The plans were revealed while

and have always stressed that failure was not an option.” “I am also

commemorating the center’s 50-year anniversary. “It’s an exciting time to

grateful to have worked under the late Judge Ernest V. Richards, IV as

be a part of this forward-thinking transformation. The redevelopment will

he entrusted me to manage the shopping center at the young age of

offer something for everyone and will include a full spectrum of retail,

24. I am at this point in my career because he had confidence in me

dining, hospitality and outdoor entertainment attractions to compliment

that I didn’t yet have in myself.”

our current tenant mix.”

The Clearview City Center project will be one of the largest retail redevelopments in the state of Louisiana. The modernization of the center will include the addition of a limited service hotel, Class A apartments, an abundance of medical facilities and office space, 46

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Clearview Center is located at 4436 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie.

885-0202. clearviewcitycenter.com.

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Camille Collins, Tabitha McCabe, Monica Castillo, Barbara Johnson, Bridget Perkins and Valerie Landry.

The Women of Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts CREOLE CUISINE RESTAURANT CONCEPTS

Whether your appetite calls for fresh oysters on the half-shell, a traditional

half years in personnel development and management training. Camille

stuffed po-boy, a tall specialty cup of refreshing daiquiri, or a mouthwatering

Collins, Director of Marketing, has been overseeing the marketing for Creole

blackened redfish filet, Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts has what you’re

Cuisine’s 26 unique brands for almost two years. In addition to these women,

craving. Founded in 1989, Creole Cuisine delivers the true spirit of the Big Easy

thirty-five percent of Creole Cuisine’s store level management workforce is

in all of its establishments.

powered by women, as well as four general managers and one area manager.

The exceptional cuisine is backed by a diverse employee base of women

“Creating an inclusive culture at Creole Cuisine, has always been on our

and men who strive to live up to the high standards of the Crescent City. In a

agenda,” says Ammari. “These women have proven to be assets that have led

male-driven industry, Creole Cuisine finds pride in enlisting females in many

to our successes along the way.”

management roles, from area director to chief human resources officer, with many holding various positions for over 20 years.

“Our mission here at Creole Cuisine is to empower and support our team

Creole Cuisine’s diverse roster of employees comes from these basics: hire the best people for the right job, which takes effort to examine exactly what every job entails; empowering people to make decisions for the

members to deliver the best guest experiences while being a leader in the

company; creating a supportive working environment despite the inherent

hospitality industry and community,” says CEO Marv Ammari. “Our focus is guest-

stress of the restaurant business; and offering good pay to retain employees in

centric in a family driven culture that yields growth through proven results.”

a competitive industry.

Bridget Perkins, Area Director, has worked for Creole Cuisine for 20

In addition to building a diverse work culture, Creole Cuisine is involved

years. As area director, she provides strategic direction of her team and

with many organizations that foster continued growth and prosperity for New

conveys the Creole Cuisine culture. Monica Castillo, Director of Event

Orleans and Louisiana including St. Michael Special School, Eat Fit NOLA,

Operations, has overseen event operations and execution for all private

Second Harvest Food Bank, Volunteers of America, American Cancer Society,

parties for 10 years. Valerie Landry, Director of Sales for nearly nine years,

Louisiana Hospitality Foundation among many others.

is responsible for the success of special events in all Creole Cuisine venues and restaurants. Barbara Johnson has been with the human resources department of Creole Cuisine for over four years and has served as the Chief Human Resources Officer since December 2017. Talent & Development Director Tabitha McCabe has been with Creole Cuisine for three and a

Visit creolecuisine.com to learn more.

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known for many years,” she says, “With our brokerage, I wanted to make sure that everyone is just as hardworking and positive as I am. You can hire any of our 11 agents and they’re going to be excellent.” The Godwyn & Stone team is set to reach close to $50 million in sales by the end of 2020.

In addition to the brokerage’s success, Brittany stars in her own HGTV show, Selling the Big Easy. On track to air in early April, the show features Brittany and her team making house hunting fun as they take an enthusiastic approach to buying and selling elegant and historic properties. “It is a passion project that will showcase the food, the people, the culture, the architecture and real estate of the city,” she

Brittany Picolo-Ramos GODWYN & STONE BROKERAGE

“Real estate agents are not salesmen. They’re customer service representatives, they’re protectors, they’re information holders—they’re sometimes therapists,” says Brittany Picolo-Ramos of Godwyn & Stone. “That is why I enjoy the business of real estate. We get to take care of people.”

Brittany started in real estate in 2013 after losing money on a home she and her husband, Marco, purchased from a family member. She wanted to protect others from the mistakes she made. “My advice to new buyers is to hire the best agent. They will negotiate for you, protect you during inspections, and they’ll be there if the appraisal goes wrong. They’re going to make sure you have a great lender—they’ve already gone through all the hard stuff so that you don’t have to.”

Unknowingly, their future brokerage name would support that idea of protection and support. Brittany and Marco began working in real estate together in 2015. The Picolo-Ramos Team, as they were called, quickly went from a few sales

says. “I’ve always wanted to share our culture and all that’s behind the parties and the festivals. New Orleans is its own world.”

As a business leader, real estate agent and mother, Brittany says: “If it’s a

here and there to over $14 million in sales in their first year, to over $31 million by

love and a passion, you’re not working. You’re just enjoying the day. Of course, not

the end of 2018. After consistently being the top one or two team in their office of

everything is fun. Even in hard and tough times, we are changing people’s lives.

over 500 agents, they felt like it was time to consider starting their own brokerage

There have been situations where I have made people thousands to hundreds-of-

and so they did.

thousands of dollars more than they would have made without me. I can sleep at

Last year, while Brittany and Marco were staying with their sister in Nashville

night knowing that I’m actually changing the world one house sale at a time.”

during Hurricane Barry, Brittany came across an old family crest. The crest read “Godwyn and Stone” featuring leopards and a gryphon which belonged to Brittany’s great-great-grandfather, Charles Godwyn Stevens. The name, Godwyn, comes from the popular Old English personal name “Godwine”, meaning “friend, protector” and “lord”. And just like that, Godwyn & Stone Brokerage was born.

While the brokerage is new, the team is seasoned. “I have a phenomenal team. Almost every person on our team is someone I’ve grown up with or have

Godwyn & Stone Brokerage is located at 1912 Clearview Pkwy, Ste 200, in Metairie. 826-8426. godwynstone.com.

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Sharon Schenck NOLA RUGS INC.

Sharon Schenck, owner of NOLA Rugs Inc., began her oriental rug career 47 years ago in London, and was fortunate to work with two world-renowned rug scholars.

She subsequently worked in or owned stores in San Francisco, Santa Fe and Scottsdale, arriving in New Orleans 19 years ago to help with the estate of Jacqueline Vance Rugs. Falling in love with the city at that time, she successfully began a new business, NOLA Rugs Inc., now one of the premier rug stores in the entire country.

Just last summer, NOLA Rugs, originally located at 3944 Magazine Street for the past 18 years, moved. The store has expanded to a 7,500 sq. ft. warehouse, in an up and coming design community, on Jefferson Hwy. The new space is huge making it much easier for viewing the rugs.

Traditionally rug weaving is a women’s art, passed down from mother to daughter. Some patterns containing symbols that are thousands of years old. At NOLA Rugs one can find classic, transitional and contemporary designs. Many

and our goal is to make your experience as easy and fun as possible. Having a store like ours with such a broad selection in New Orleans and being able to see our collection in person is a huge advantage,” says Sharon.

With a firm commitment to offer the highest quality rugs to a diverse client-base ranging from private individuals to corporate entities and professional designers around the world, her trained staff assists with choosing which colors, styles, and sizes may best satisfy your needs.

Capably navigating more than 2,000 rugs in their spacious showroom,

of the newest designs have been created in Europe bringing a fresh look in

her team will follow-up with in-house consultations, assisting with the decision-

simplicity, texture and color.

making process to bring a new vision for your décor that will subtly blend into

With an extensive knowledge of dyes and wool quality, Schenck is able to select the finest caliber of rugs, in all types and styles at different price

and enhance your home.

NOLA Rugs and Sharon Schenck have a reputation beyond reproach and

points. All custom options are available, using the top weaving producers in the

has earned a loyalty seldom encountered in a business that has become so

world—any size, color or design is possible.

diversified in the 21st century.

After years of travel in these source countries, she has established lifelong relationships that have enabled Schenck to serve her clients well. As a direct importer, Sharon and her team share her decades of international experience which unravels the mystery surrounding oriental rugs.

“Finding the correct rug for a specific room can sometimes be confusing

NEW LOCATION! NOLA Rugs Inc. is located at 300 Jefferson Hwy, Ste 401, in New Orleans. 891-3304. Nolarugs.com.

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A Legacy of Trailblazing

URSULINE ACADEMY OF NEW ORLEANS

Ursuline Academy of New Orleans is an academy of firsts.

The first female pharmacist, first woman to contribute

Its tradition of trailblazing began almost 50 years

before America was founded. In 1727, Ursuline became the first all girls’ Catholic school in the nation. In 1535,

a book of literary merit, first convent, first free school and

foundress St. Angela Merici formed a company of women.

first retreat center for ladies, first classes for female African-

The community was different than many of the religious

American slaves, free women of color and Native Americans

orders of women which existed in her day.

were all firsts of Ursuline. Ursuline’s legacy inspires girls to confidently blaze their own trails.

Starting in early childhood, the Reggio Emilia-

She believed it was important to teach the girls in their own homes with their own families. One of her favorite sayings was, “Disorder in society is the result

inspired approach builds each girl’s confidence,

of disorder in the family.” Though the women wore no

social-emotional resiliency and appreciation of others.

special religious habit and took no formal vows, Angela

Continuing throughout the academy, the all-girls’

wrote a Rule of Life for those who lived and served in the

environment empowers girls to challenge themselves,

community. This was the first group of consecrated women

explore outside their comfort zones and expand what they

to work outside of a formal cloister or convent and became

are capable of achieving.

the first teaching order of women in the Catholic Church.

Diverse by design, Ursuline believes that appreciating

Angela’s trailblazing community set the stride for the

and learning from people with different perspectives is how

many Ursuline trailblazers to come. Ursuline Sisters were

we build a better world. For many girls, Ursuline can be the

invited to exhibit some of their students’ needlework, music

first place they meet people with different backgrounds,

and writing compositions in the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

beliefs and talents. The academy celebrates girls for who

In the region, Ursuline provided the first center of social

they are and elevates their confidence to influence the

welfare in the Mississippi Valley, first boarding school in

world. They learn from each other, celebrate each other

Louisiana and the first school of music in New Orleans.

and raise each other up. At Ursuline, girls gain a deeper

At Ursuline, girls blaze their own trails. It’s a legacy.

understanding of themselves and how to be successful in a global society. Through interactive experiences tailored to girls’ interests, Ursuline students learn how to think deeper,

communicate clearly and solve problems independently

Ursuline Academy of New Orleans is located at 2635 State

and collaboratively.

Street. 861-9150. For more information, visit go.uanola.org.

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April Watson BLUE WILLIAMS

“I’ve always been an advocate,” says April Watson. “That sense of justice is why I went to law school.” April earned her Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola

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Anna Tusa

BRIQUETTE AND NEW ORLEANS CREOLE COOKERY Since 1995, Anna Tusa has been devoted to the New Orleans restaurant industry. As owner of the New Orleans Creole Cookery and Briquette, Anna enjoys serving guests in comfortable atmospheres with first class service.

School of Law. She began her law career handling business litigation in the

Briquette is housed in the former Rodd Brothers Molasses Refinery.

aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. During that time, she gained both state and

Nestled in the Warehouse District, Briquette features a contemporary, yet casual,

federal trial experience and has worked as outside tax litigation counsel for the

restaurant interior marked by a signature open kitchen. “Our 18-foot seafood

Louisiana Department of Revenue since 2004.

display is filled with fresh sea bass, halibut, steelhead salmon, Louisiana redfish,

With fifteen years of litigation experience involving business, trusts, estates, and successions, April joined Blue Williams in 2019. “Most of my work centers on small business, trusts and estates because I enjoy working with families,” she

and many other seafood favorites that are caught daily,” says Anna. “Fresh and whole fish are our specialties, prepared over red-hot briquettes.”

Recently, Briquette has opened a private room —the Briquette Wine Room.

says. “I handle both estate planning and litigation. A lot of attorneys will draft

“The demand for an event space has been huge,” Anna says. “It is perfect for

your will or trust, but if a problem arises many will not litigate it. Working in the

corporate functions, breakfast or brunch, plated dinner, and our monthly spirit/

courtroom helps me see where problems generally arise and that knowledge

wine dinners.”

makes me a better lawyer.”

She is a member of the New Orleans Bar Association, the Louisiana State

In the French Quarter, Anna hosts guests at the New Orleans Creole Cookery. The courtyard, oyster bar and dining room offer a mixture of settings to

Bar Association, and the Federal Bar Association. April has served on the boards of

enjoy traditional Creole food. The new and improved courtyard has a beautiful

multiple non-profits, including CASA New Orleans and the Association for Women

mural by a local artist, string lights and a courtyard bar.

Attorneys, and currently serves on the 2019-2020 Loyola University Alumni

Anna serves as President of the French Market Corporation Board of

Association Board of Directors. April’s desire to give others a better life also led to

Directors, is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs Small Business program, and is

her opening a unique gallery and make-your-own glass art studio on Magazine

a member of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, which is the oldest and

Street. She adds: “While taking a class in Florida from my now business partner, I

largest food and wine society in the world. She was recently inducted into Société

told her that we should open a shop in New Orleans – a city full of art lovers and

Mondiale du Vin, which focuses on wine and spirit appreciation.

creators. Three years from that conversation, we opened The Shard Shop.”

When not helping clients at Blue Williams or aspiring artists at The Shard

“At both restaurants, I enjoy getting to meet people from all over the world,” Anna explains. “Seeing their positive reactions to our dishes and their interactions

Shop, April can be found at her Uptown home with her husband, two kids and

with our staff makes my job very fulfilling.” When not welcoming guests, Anna

rescue Doberman—or heading off to an adventurous vacation to hike, snorkel or ski.

enjoys traveling, eating and experiencing new cultures with her husband, A.J.

Contact April at 504-830-4962 or awatson@bluewilliams.com. To learn more, visit

To view menus and learn more, visit briquette-nola.com or

bluewilliams.com or shardshop.com/nola.

neworleanscreolecookery.com.

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P R O F I L E S

Larissa Littleton-Steib, Ph.D. DELGADO COMMUNITY COLLEGE

In Dr. Larissa Littleton-Steib’s senior year of college, she was bitten by the education bug. “I was a tutor for Operation Mainstream which helped adults to read. It was then that I wanted to be a teacher,” says Dr. Littleton-Steib. “I went home to tell my mother that I was not going to pursue law school as planned and that I was going to try out teaching for

Jessica Marasco Illes and Madeline Browning EDWARD JONES

two years just to see if I liked it.”

Dr. Littleton-Steib didn’t like teaching. She loved it. After teaching special

Edward Jones is a different kind of investment

education students, she moved on to Delgado Community College to serve

firm. To us, face time and think time make sense. We

in a succession of key roles before becoming Chancellor of Baton Rouge

meet with you to learn your individual needs so we

Community College. In July of 2019, she returned to Delgado as Chancellor.

can develop a strategy to help you achieve your long-

“I had the opportunity to come back to an institution that gave me

term financial goals. So, whether you want to plan for

my start 20 plus years ago. This institution has been so supportive,” Dr.

retirement, save for college, reduce your tax bills or

Littleton-Steib adds. “Delgado is home for me. Delgado is family.”

ensure you have income to cover your expenses, you

In 2021, Delgado will celebrate 100 years. “That is a phenomenal legacy,

can expect personalized service and long-term investing

that a college has been around for that long. We’ve been flexible, nimble, and

strategies instead of the latest investment fads. Join the

able to pivot in order to survive.” And survive it has. Last year 2,900 students

nearly 7 million investors who know. Contact me today

transferred to four-year institutions. “We have strong relationships with our

to help develop an investment strategy that makes

four-year institutions and our business and industry partners. We want to

sense for you.

remain relevant in a constantly changing environment.”

On the cusp of its centennial year, Delgado and Dr. Littleton-Steib are excited for what’s next. She is on a mission to make it the college of first choice: “Delgado is not your grandfather’s community college. We have something for everyone. No matter where your starting place is.”

You can reach Jessica Marasco Illes at 504-486-8645.

606 N. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans. You can reach Madeline Browning at 504-364-9360.

Delgado Community College has seven locations strategically located

3201 General Degaulle Dr., Suite 105, New Orleans.

throughout the New Orleans metropolitan area. To learn more, visit dcc.edu.

edwardjones.com Member SIPC A p ri l - M ay 2020 55

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Bonnie Sarver

Mary-Martin France

GULF SOUTH ACCOUNTING SERVICES, LLC

HILLTOP SHOPPE

Bonnie Sarver has a knack for numbers. While pursuing a psychology degree at the University of New Orleans, Bonnie elected to take accounting

P R O F I L E S

Being a woman business owner runs deep in Mary-Martin France’s

classes for a minor when she was approached by the accounting department

roots. Both of Mary-Martin’s grandmothers and her great-grandmother were

chairman. “He noticed that I was getting better grades than the accounting

all business owners. Yet, this LSU Tiger’s adoration for retail did not begin

majors,” Bonnie says. “Since the core requirements were the same for the

until after she resigned from a corporate job.

jobs I wanted to pursue, he convinced me to change my major. I enjoyed the coursework so much that it also changed my career.”

A New Orleans native, Bonnie opened Gulf South Accounting Services

“I started at Emma’s Shoes and Accessories in Mandeville and quickly fell in love with the retail world and all that it entails,” she says. From there, Mary-Martin and her then business partner opened Hilltop Shoppe on

in 2005 while working a full-time job. Following Katrina, she chose to stay

Magazine Street in September 2017. The name nodding to their time at

in New Orleans although her job relocated to Nashville. Now celebrating 15

Camp Waldemar in Texas, where last-year campers are called “hilltoppers”.

years in business, Bonnie offers accounting, payroll and tax services that can be customized to each client’s needs.

“I pride myself on offering personal attention,” she says. Bonnie enjoys

Two and half years later, Mary-Martin now loves visiting with all of her clients new and old, plus the many tourists that stop in to see what Hilltop has to offer. “My favorite part of day-to-day is interacting with my clients.

meeting with new clients who have been trying to manage all tasks on their

We strive to provide the best customer service and want every single person

own. “I love to give them relief. They can focus on growing their business—and

who walks in the door to leave happy with their Hilltop happies,” Mary-

keeping their customers happy—while I focus on the deadlines and numbers.”

Martin smiles.

As a mother and business owner, Bonnie understands the need for

She also loves hearing feedback about the many goods Hilltop carries.

flexibility. She offers flexible hours for working moms who are trying to start

From baptismal gifts and jewelry to stationery and wedding registry options,

businesses or are working alone to get their businesses up and going. “I am

there’s a little something for everyone. Mary-Martin enjoys merchandising

grateful that my business has allowed me to encourage and support other

the store to present the many brands available including Vietri, Moser Glass,

female business owners,” Bonnie says. “I can help them make decisions,

LSA International, Uashmama, and more.

understand the numbers, and ensure that important deadlines are met so that they can continue on a path of success!”

A proud alumna of St. Mary’s Dominican High School, Bonnie earned her

As a woman in business, she adds: “I take my role as a female business owner seriously. I believe that as women, especially right now, we have a responsibility to pave the way for future generations. It’s cliché

MBA in 2006. She is a member of the Fore!Kids Foundation, First Tee of Greater

but you can truly accomplish anything through hard work, consistency,

New Orleans and Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation. She volunteers at the

and perseverance. I was always encouraged and supported by both of my

Zurich Classic, her parish and her children’s school. In their free time, Bonnie,

parents and my sister to chase after what I want in life—and I hope to do that

her husband, Mark, and their two boys enjoy playing golf.

in the future for young girls.”

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To reach Bonnie, call 504-495-9994 or bonnie@gulfsouthaccounting.com.

Meet Mary-Martin at Hilltop Shoppe located at 3714 Magazine Street. Follow

gulfsouthaccounting.com.

along on Instagram @hilltopshoppe. 504-533-9670.

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Jeanne Dailey

NEWMAN-DAILEY RESORT PROPERTIES

P R O F I L E S

Alison L. Burns, MBA PRECISION PAYMENT SYSTEMS

With a servant’s heart, Alison L. Burns opened Precision Payment

Jeanne Dailey may not be a New Orleans local but her love of food,

Systems in August 2013. “I saw a grave need for small business owners to

music and hospitality makes her an honorary member, and very worthy of

have options. I would see a person come in offering credit card processing

a Women IN Business feature. Her inspiring story is one many dream of—to

that maybe wasn’t in the business’ best interest,” Alison says. “I found a

build a successful business and live at the beach.

huge problem with that. I knew that small businesses needed somebody

After college graduation, Dailey didn’t know what was next so she followed her college roommate to Destin, Florida. It was then in 1983 that she discovered her calling and love for the Destin community.

“When I arrived in Destin, I in­terviewed with Randy Newman, who

genuine who would match-make processors with their needs and budgets.”

Alison founded Precision Payment Systems out of her home office.

In nearly seven years, she and her team of mostly women resale seven different processing options to a wide array of industries and six different

was in the process of building a new real estate development and resort

point of sale systems exclusively for retail and restaurant businesses.

properties management company,” shares Dailey. “I was eager to learn

“That gives us the ability to shop around for the best rates possible

the business. After a year as a licensed real estate agent, I took a two-week

for a business,” Alison explains. “We then find the best fit and provide

crash course and received my broker’s license. I found out that I loved the

impeccable customer service.”

business. In 1985, Randy and I launched Newman-Dailey Resort Properties

Passionate about small businesses, Alison champions them on a

and I bought him out in 1988. This year, we’ll celebrate 35 years of helping

legislative level. “New Orleans is so great about rallying behind small

our clients, guests and owners make their dreams a reality at the beach.”

businesses. We choose local over big box any day, but sometimes our

As Founder and CEO of Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, Dailey has proven that anything is possible. Through her leadership, she has created a company that values integrity and ethics. Her team members are treated like family and everyone works together to reach common goals.

“Whether it’s achieving goals for our business and clients or gathering

businesses may not know the effects of legislation. I want to give a voice to legislation that is going to protect us tax wise or help us thrive.”

Precision is a member of the New Orleans and Jefferson Chambers, LABI, and Stay Local NOLA. Alison also serves in leadership roles for NAWBO New Orleans and NFIB, sits on the Fore!Kids committee, and is a regular

items for the local food drive, our company’s supportive yet competitive

attender of Lakeview Christian Center. She invests her free time in fitness,

spirit kicks in and we accomplish more than any one of us could ever do

health, and nutrition, and helps others reach their goals there as well.

alone,” says Dailey. “It takes a team and I’m extremely blessed to have one

“I love talking to people and serving others,” she says. “As a

that has stayed with me along the way and has helped grow Newman-Dailey

company, we want to know how we can better take care of our customers

into the exceptional company it is today.”

and our community. And the same goes for my employees…I ask, ‘what

A testament to Dailey’s leadership, Newman-Dailey consistently earns “Best

do you need today?’”

Places to Work” by Florida Trend Magazine as well as “Best Property Management Company on the Emerald Coast” by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine.

Precision Payment Systems serves New Orleans and surrounding To learn more about Newman-Dailey Resort Properties,

areas from Dallas to the Florida panhandle and up to Arkansas. Located at

visit NewmanDailey.com.

1912 Clearview Pkwy, Ste 201, in Metairie. PrecisionPaymentSystems.com.

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IN Small Business

by Alison Burns

We’ll Run the World

Megan Naccari SAINTLY SKIN

With an eye for professional beauty and extensive aesthetic knowledge, Saintly Skin owner and esthetician Megan Naccari loves making her clients look and feel their best. “I pride myself on being polite and professional while providing my clients with a friend to talk to, a shoulder to lean on, and the guarantee that after they leave, they will feel more beautiful than when they came in,” Megan says.

A graduate of Ridgewood Preparatory School, Megan gained her aesthetics license from John Jay Beauty College in Kenner. In 2016, the opportunity presented itself to purchase the assets of the company she was working for. Megan took the leap and four years later, Saintly Skin has blossomed from spa-like offerings to a full array of medspa services.

She and her team of two Nurse Practitioners, a Lead Esthetician and a Medical Director offer dermal fillers, Botox, laser hair removal, microneedling and more to a diverse clientele. As a New Orleans native, Megan naturally loves relating to anyone who comes in Saintly Skin’s doors. She says, “My favorite part of this business is working with our clients and seeing their progression.” Progression can easily be seen with one of Saintly Skin’s monthly memberships. With different levels, there’s a plan to suit everyone’s needs.

To ensure the best services, the entire team at Saintly Skin makes certain to continue their education, which furthers the business’ mission: “To deliver achievable cosmetic results through professional services. We aim to educate our clients through our own training and experiences. Where beautiful skin is within everyone’s grasp.”

Megan adds: “At Saintly Skin, we believe that through continued education and personal dedication to our profession we can offer our best to our clients. Each of our staff members reflects that in their own way and our different backgrounds bring something unique to our medspa. It is why our atmosphere is warm, welcoming and never intimidating.”

Saintly Skin is located at 3000 Kingman St, Ste 101, in Metairie.

504-475-5510. saintlyskin.com.

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AS A FEMALE BUSINESS OWNER who serves other small businesses, I am honored to begin writing this column about a subject dear to me, especially in an issue that champions us. Whether founders, owners, or executives, we women have made huge strides in education and business in less than a century. We should look with pride on how far we have come and where we are going. We should also continue to push toward growth for future generations of little girls who will certainly run the world.

Our brains are growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a mere 11 percent of women held a bachelor’s degree or higher in 1970 and 34 percent of women did not even graduate from high school or obtain a GED. Less than 50 years later, in 2016, 42 percent of all women held a bachelor’s degree and only six percent did not hold a high school diploma or equivalent.

And, our drive is growing too. The Bureau of Labor Statistics tells us that women are entering the workforce in greater numbers.

In 1950, just one out of three women of working age were actually in the workforce (34 percent). As of 1998, this statistic jumped to nearly three out of five women (60 percent).

Women are doing all of this while starting families and rearing children. In 2016, over 61 percent of married-couple families with children were dual-income households. Shout out to all those working mamas who, based on 2011 data, were breadwinners in four out of ten US households (up from only one out of ten in 1960).

And, not only are we in the workforce, but we are founding and owning our businesses as well. According to the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council in 2018, there were 12.3 million womenowned businesses in America compared to only 402,000 in 1972.

Just since 2007, women-owned businesses have increased by a whopping 58 percent while all businesses grew by just 12 percent.

Employment by women-owned businesses rose 21 percent while all other businesses declined by 0.8 percent. We start businesses, and people want to work for us! GEAUX. TEAM. {Insert slow clap here} Do you hear me? We are beating national averages! Hug yourself.

HARDER! This is scientific proof that women are fantastic multi-taskers!

Because of this, we also face a unique set of needs and challenges as we strive to juggle family, career, and a social life. There is a plethora of organizations created specifically to serve and support those needs, and we have a wide variety of them right here in the New Orleans Metro area. Check out our local chapters of these nationwide groups: National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBENC), American Business Women’s Association (ABWA), and Executive Women International (EWI). In addition, many local chambers have women-specific networking groups, such as the New Orleans Chamber’s Women’s Business Alliance. Plus, Fidelity Bank’s P.O.W.E.R. organization for women entrepreneurs.

Come on, let’s hear it for the girls!

Get Fit

Uplifting Women in Business

by Ingrid Rinck

I’M NO STRANGER to being a woman in business. I’ve owned my current company, Sensible Meals for six years now, and before that I ran another business for four. During those ten years, I’ve also been a partner and mother. Prior to that, I worked in a myriad of jobs.

I’ve learned a lot about navigating the business world as a woman, and also about supporting and uplifting other women entrepreneurs. I’ve seen the results of what incredible ladies can do if they are empowered and uplifted. Here are some ideas you can consider to support women in business: 1. Do not hire women based on resume alone.

When you hire from a pool of prospective candidates, please keep in mind that many women have weaker resumes because many times women put their careers on hold to bear and rear children. Just because a woman has gaps in her work history does not mean that she isn’t qualified or a good fit for the position. If you have an applicant who took some time off to grow her family, you might want to enroll her into a training program or put her into a position on a trial basis so you can evaluate her skills. Someone gave you a chance, so it’s time to pay it forward and use your position to help other women to see similar success. Not only should you hire women, but you should give them every opportunity to take classes and training programs to advance within your organization.

2. Make Friends, not Frenemies.

I look at other female business owners as my friends and not my enemies, and you should as well. It’s important that we all support each other. Help and encourage your friends with women-owned businesses by liking their pages on social media, liking and sharing their posts, and

by commenting on their posts if they say something that is meaningful to you. If you’ve used the business’ products or services and were happy with them, go to Google and leave a five star review so that you can let everyone else know it is an asset to the community. It takes two minutes of your time and makes a huge impact on the business. You can also join communities of women that support each other, such as my Leading Ladies League.

3. Give Recognition—It Means the World.

Throughout my career, I’ve been featured in many magazines, including women-owned magazines like Inside New Orleans. I’m so grateful for publications like this one who have given valuable recognition and awards to deserving women over the past several years. If there’s a female business owner that you think is killing it—send her a card or gift card and let her know, nominate her for an award, or submit her story to a local publication. Many women consider “words of encouragement” as one of their top motivators. Unfortunately, most of them don’t hear nice things nearly often enough.

4. Mentor other women.

It’s a wonderful way to pay it forward. There are many young girls in high school, college, and even trade schools that could use direction in their lives and advice on how to get started. Working with them is really important, and it’s free. It just takes a little bit of your time. You may end up learning something from them as well.

If you are a female business owner, if you loved these tips, or if you have any questions or comments for me, I’d love to hear about what has worked for you and how you support your fellow females! You can find me on social media @IngridRinck.

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INside Look

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1. Diamond floral cluster necklace in 18k gold, 9.80 cttw, $35,000. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Metairie, 832-0000.

2. Take any look to the next level with Leone earrings, made in bronze and sterling silver, from $250. Reagan Charleston Jewelry, second level at Canal Place or ReaganCharleston.com. 3. The first advanced skincare product that shows an almost immediate change in the skin hydration and cumulative dramatic changes by six weeks. Family Dermatology Specialists, LLC, Metairie, 832-6612. 4. Beautiful 4.18ct radiant cut sapphire and diamond ring set in 18k white gold. Exclusively at Aucoin Hart Jewelers, Metairie, 834-9999. 5. Get ready for Mother’s Day at Palm Village, a Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store. Mandeville, 985-778-2547.

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6. Moonstone cabochon, faceted aqua chalcedony, and turquoise glass intaglio earrings. Ballin’s Ltd., 8664367. 7. A great gift for any mom: the Alastin Restorative Eye Treatment, $85. New Orleans Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery, 533-8848.

8. 1905 Collection Tailored Fit Suit in Bright Blue. Jos. A. Bank Mandeville, 985-6244067; Metairie, 620-2265; New Orleans, 528-9491.

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1. Rose cut diamond rings in 18K yellow, rose and white gold, $2,250-$2,950. Symmetry Jewelers & Designers, 861-9925.

2. Boy and girl hand-embroidered bubbles, $58. AURALUZ, Metairie, 888-3313, shopauraluz.com.

3. TAG Heuer Connected 3.0 watch with steel case, black ceramic bezel and black rubber strap, $1,800. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Metairie, 832-0000.

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1. TWELVElittle pink leather Peekaboo diaper backpack. Kiki & Lolli, Covington, 985-900-2410.

2. New Contemporary Austin gas or electric lantern from The CopperSmith, available in 24” and 30”, starting at $838. Gulf Coast Lanterns, 800-910-3275, gulfcoastlanterns.com. 3. Oil on linen Composition 1, 24” x 18”, by Michael Hedges. Degas Gallery of New Orleans, 826-9744, thedegasgallery.com.

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1. Perfect for adding color or softness to any small space, a variety of handwoven 2’ x 3’ rugs from many different countries are available. NOLA Rugs, Inc, 891-3304.

2. Currey and Company Forrest light gold chandelier.

Southland Plumbing Supply, Metairie, 835-8411.

3. Hand-painted impressionistic angels, $300 each.

Greige Home Interiors, Covington, 985-875-7576.

4. Whether it’s designing custom furniture, starting your registry or choosing a fabric from the sample room, with over two dozen local artists and huge selection of unique home décor, Fur.Nish has you covered! Fur.Nish, Metairie, 702-8514. 5. Morse code necklace, $42. AURALUZ, Metairie, 888-3313, shopauraluz.com. 6. Give your kitchen an update. Nordic Kitchen and Baths, Metairie, 888-2300, nordickitchens.com.

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Fresh and Clean

Tips for Spring Cleaning

by Leah Draffen

WHILE SPENDING TIME AT HOME, the daunting task of spring cleaning just may be on your brain. Yes, you’re right. It’s no fun.

It can be overwhelming. Yet, the feeling of a clean home is so very satisfying, right? Below are some tips that go a little deeper than the necessary disinfecting we are all practicing right now.

Let the Sun In. Wash windows—inside and out—with glass cleaner

and a lint-free cloth. Don’t have cleaning cloths? Recycle that stack of outdated newspapers as glass cleaning cloths. It works! On the inside, dust blinds and shades, and vacuum drapes to take it a step further.

The Stink in the Sink. After tossing thin slices of lemon into the

garbage disposal, run a thin stream of water and turn on the disposal until the slices are gone. Your sink will be citrus clean in seconds.

Fridge of Fright. That orange juice ring has been there long

enough. You can do you it. Grab your favorite surface cleaner and get to scrubbing! Start at the top shelves and work your way down so that crumbs trickle their way to the bottom as you go. Pull drawers out to vacuum produce remnants then wipe them with your trusty cleaner. The same goes for that freezer and that year-old daquiri (let’s be honest, we all have one).

Sweep Under the Rug. Don’t be afraid to tackle that forgotten

hallway runner or well-worn door mat…that is more than likely covered in pollen. For indoor rugs, vacuum both the top and bottom.

While flipped, that hard-to-reach dirt will shake out. Roll it up, vacuum the floor—mop if you’d like—then unroll and pass over the rug one more time. The water hose gets the job done on door mats.

Let it air dry preferably over a railing or outdoor chair.

Look Up. Those fans that are keeping us all cool need some love

too. A dryer sheet is the perfect trick to grab dust build up on the blades. Also, vacuum air vents, intake vents and bathroom fans.

Cabinet Crud. It’s amazing what our cabinets collect (on

the inside and out). Grease and gunk, dust and fingerprints…yep, it happens to all of us. Wipe those babies down with a surface or furniture cleaner to get the job done—pay extra attention to the cabinets near your stove.

Other items to consider: makeup brushes, cutting boards, dryer duct, vacuum filter and brushes, and—dare I say it—microwave.

Happy cleaning!

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Looking Good and Feeling Great

A little self-care is always a good thing— especially when spending time at home.

A refreshing face mask, a restorative hair treatment, or maybe a nice and long (kid-free) soak. When an extra boost is needed, it’s time to turn to the professionals. Whether you need laser hair removal to be beach-ready, a fresh cut to try something new, or maybe something a little more daring like dermal fillers or a surgical procedure, we have resources for you. Below is a list of professionals that will have you Looking Good and Feeling Great no matter what results you’re wanting to achieve.

Resource Guide Christwood 100 Christwood Blvd., Covington 985-292-1234 christwoodrc.com Dependable In Home Care 702 N Carrollton Ave., New Orleans 504-486-5044 dependablecare.net Family Dermatology Specialists, LLC 3421 N Causeway Blvd., Ste. 202, Metairie 504-832-6612 Jansen Plastic Surgery 3900 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Ste. 200, Metairie 504-455-1000 jansenplasticsurgery.com 66

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New Orleans Center for Aesthetics 2633 Napoleon Ave., Ste. 920, New Orleans 504-533-8848 plasticsurgerynola.com Saintly Skin 3000 Kingman St., Metairie 504-475-5510 saintlyskin.com Sensible Meals 985-237-1011 eatsensiblemeals.com Somer’s Salon Kenner 339 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner; 504-4683617 Elmwood 5602 Jefferson Hwy., Elmwood; 504738-1200 somerssalon.com Thibodaux Regional Medical Center 602 N. Acadia Rd., Thibodaux 985-447-5500 thibodaux.com Westside Orthopaedic Clinic 1301 Barataria Blvd., Marrero 504-347-0243 westsideortho.com A p ri l - M ay 2 020 67

During this time of uncertainty, please be sure to support your local businesses. Order to-go from your neighborhood restaurants; shop local for your home, clothing and grocery needs; and enlist locals for insurance, business services, banking and more. Below is a list of Inside New Orleans April-May 2020 advertisers. Please join us in supporting them.

Dining

Miscellaneous

Annunciation Restaurant Antoine’s Restaurant Briquette Broussard’s Restaurant Caffe Caffe!

Everyday Keto To-go New Orleans Creole Cookery Poof Cotton Candy River Room Sensible Meals Tommy’s Cuisine

Louisiana State Museum Love Swimming NOLA Riverview Camp for Girls West Feliciana Parish Tourist Commission

Education

Academy of Sacred Heart Delgado Community College Ursuline Academy

American Heart Association Sideline Pass

Lee Michaels Jewelry Niche Modern Home NOLA Rugs Nordic Kitchens & Baths Outdoor Living Center Palm Village - a Lilly Pulitzer Store Reagan Charleston Jewelry Southland Plumbing Supply Symmetry Jewelers The Shard Shop

Real Estate

Senior Care

Berkshire Hathaway~ Jennifer Rice & Team CPA Realty Godwyn & Stone Brokerage Money Hill Golf & Country Club Newman Dailey Resort Properties

Christwood Retirement Community Dependable In Home Care

Organizations

Finance

Fidelity Bank Keesler Federal Credit Union Medical

Family Dermatology Specialist, LLC Jansen Plastic Surgery New Orleans Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery Saintly Skin Thibodaux Regional Medical Center Westside Orthopaedic Clinic 68

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Retail

Aucoin Hart AURALUZ Ballin’s LTD. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights Clearview Shopping Center Fur.Nish Greige Home Interiors Gulf Coast Lanterns Hilltop Shoppe Jos. A. Bank Clothier KiKi & Lolli

Services

Blue Williams Bonnie Boyd & Company (BBC) Gulf South Accounting LLC J & J Exterminating Milestone Photography Precision Payment Services Robert Trent Spann Photography Somer’s Salon Insurance

Jessica Marasco Illes, Edward Jones Madeline Browning, Edward Jones North American Insurance Agency Mary-Beth Rittiner, State Farm Taylor Lambert, State Farm

INside Peek Broussard Restaurant’s Centennial Anniversary Celebration In February, Broussard’s Restaurant and Courtyard celebrated its centennial anniversary of fine dining in the French Quarter. Since Broussard’s first opened its doors in 1920, the historic French Quarter restaurant has served locals and visitors from around the world. Moët & Chandon was poured as the Ammari Family made a toast to

photos courtesy: BROUSSARD’S

photo: MARGARITA BERGEN

the next 100 years.

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INside Peek The delicious culinary delicacies that were served at the sold-out Ella Brennan Award Gala at the ballroom of The RitzCarlton were very memorable. The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience was thrilled to bestow the 2020 Ella Brennan Lifetime Achievement in Hospitality Award to Chef John Folse. The Ella Brennan Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes one individual each year that has made a lifetime commitment to the hospitality industry through extraordinary leadership, personal and professional accomplishments, and philanthropic contributions to the community. The Lifetime Achievement in Hospitality Award is named for restaurateur legend Ella Brennan.

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photos: MARGARITA BERGEN

Ella Brennan Award Gala

Meet the Artist Party: Terrance Osborne Fan and friends of both Inside New Orleans and artist Terrance Osborne gathered at his Magazine Street gallery for an evening of art, food, wine and conversation. Guests were treated to an artist talk where Terrance shared details of his latest collection, Color of New Orleans. For a sweet take-home, bags of Poof Cotton Candy accompanied copies of the February-March issue featuring Terrance’s work.

INside Peek 1. Bradley Sumrall, Ma Po Kinnard, Martin Payton, David Kerstein and William Andrews at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art for the opening reception of exhibit Melvin Edwards: Crossroads. 2. Fern Watters, Jessie Haynes and Allison Kendrick.

3. Erica Dudas, Ana Hernandez, Rontherin Ratliff and Horton Humble. 4. Todd Battiste, Caryn Rodgers-Battiste and Ron McClain. 5. Melvin

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Rodrigue, Todd Trosclair, Dr. Larissa LittletonSteib and John Georges at Delgado’s Building Futures and Constructing Solutions fundraiser at Galatoire’s Restaurant. 6. Gala Co-Chair Neil Kohlman with Anne Gauthier and Dean Shapiro at the Jewish Children’s Regional Service’s Roots of Rhythm & Blues. 7. Barbara Kaplinsky with Richard and Carole Neff. 8. JCRS Past President and Honoree Marc Beerman, Stephanie Stokes and Dan Shea.

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photo: MARGARITA BERGEN

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photo: MARGARITA BERGEN

photo: MARGARITA BERGEN

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photo: MARGARITA BERGEN

photo: MARGARITA BERGEN

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4 1. Dr. Jane Miller and Gala Co-Chair Bruce Miller. 2. Lauren Gerber and Rabbi David Gerber with Sue Singer. 3. Architect Ray Manning, Chancellor Steib, Gayle Benson, Joe Scheuermann and Dennis Lauscha breaking ground for the new Gayle and Tom Benson Athletic Complex which was jumpstarted by Gayle and Tom Benson Foundation’s $1 million gift to Delgado Community College. 4. Delgado faculty, staff, and administrators with Mrs. Benson at the groundbreaking.

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Italian American St. Joseph Society 50th Anniversary The Italian American St. Joseph Society celebrated its 50th anniversary with a Pasta Party held at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. In honor of Saint Joseph’s Day and their annual pasta lunch, the organization prepared 500 pounds of pasta. The party, which was open to the public, gathered a crowd as the world’s largest pasta bowl was served. Guests also enjoyed live music, food and drinks. This year’s Grand Marshall was Emmy award-winning actor Michael Badalucco, and Anabella Odillie Imbornone was queen. Although the rest of the activities had to be cancelled, a good time was had by all.

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Drinks with Anna

The perfect mimosa bar to celebrate.

Another great thing about spring in New Orleans is the breezy and beautiful weather. Spring makes me think of lavender, blueberry, mint, and bubbly.

The following cocktails are perfect for Mother’s Day, Easter, or just a beautiful spring afternoon.

Briquette 75 1oz Gin (your favorite) Splash of lavender syrup Lemon juice Rosé

Cheers to Spring!

by Anna Tusa

IT’S SPRING IN NEW ORLEANS. A time for celebrations, and light and refreshing drink ideas. One of my go-to favorites for celebrations, like Mother’s Day and Easter, is a mimosa bar. It pairs perfectly with brunch! All you need is your favorite juices, garnishes, and the pop a cork. It also makes a beautiful display (less decorating that you need to do). These ideas will have all your guests’ bubbly with joy after a few.

Shake the top three ingredients and strain into a flute top with your favorite sparkling Rosé. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Mango Pineapple Rum Punch 3oz pineapple juice 3oz Malibu 1oz mango juice 1oz orange juice Splash of grenadine for color

Pour ingredients over ice and stir. Garnish with an orange zest and an edible flower to give the drink beautiful color.

NOLA Cocktail

For the perfect mimosa bar, you will need the following: Decorative table runner Glass carafes for the juices Festive flutes Ice bucket Ribbon for the juice carafes Labels for the juice carafes Colorful sugar rimmers for the flutes Pineapple, orange, pomegranate, grapefruit, and cranberry juice all pair well with bubbles Cocktail napkins Fruit garnish Champagne (of course, the best part)

2oz Gin 1oz fresh lime juice 1oz simple syrup 7 mint leaves 5 fresh blueberries

Set up: Line the table with your runner, line your flutes neatly, next display your labeled juices, place the ice bucket with champagne, and finally your cocktail napkins and fruit garnish.

Pro tips: Rim the glasses before your guests arrive so they will not be any messes and helps with the flow, have back up juices and champagne ready in the fridge. If your ice bucket is not insulated place a napkin or tray to help with condensation.

Talk about festive, easy, and no need for a bartender!

2oz 1oz 2oz 3oz

In a cocktail shaker combine gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup with ice. In a highball glass muddle the blueberries and mint. Strain your mixture in the cocktail shaker into the highball glass with muddled ingredients. Garnish with a mint leaf and enjoy.

South Peters Cosmo blueberry vodka Saint Germain Prosecco cranberry juice

Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

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IN the Kitchen

by Lorin Gaudin

Floaters or Sinkers…

photo: LORIN GAUDIN

Mastering Matzo Balls for Matzo Ball Soup

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PLENTY OF DELIS, restaurants and cafes serve matzo ball soup all year round, but during Passover (the Jewish holiday which commemorates the emancipation of the Israelites from slavery in Ancient Egypt…this year sundown April 8 - sundown April 16), matzo ball soup is particularly special and for many families, starts the Seder meal.

Everyone has a family recipe for matzo balls. Classically, that recipe includes matzo meal (made from crumbs of unleavened bread called matzo), chicken fat (schmaltz), egg, onion and water, mixed into a dumpling-like dough that once rested is shaped into balls and dropped into simmering chicken soup to cook for about 30 minutes. Some say that it’s the use of water (flat or bubbly) which determines whether matzo balls float or sink. In my experience, light matzo balls come from gently, but assertively, mixing the batter, resting it for several hours, shaping gently, and simmering the matzo balls in salted water, covered, for at least 30 minutes...no peeking!

My Aunt Marsha Racher was famous for her matzo balls, and for years I made them exactly per her recipe. She believed separating her eggs and folding in the whites made for a lighter matzo ball. If you want to add that extra step, go for it. Over the last ten years or so, I’ve developed a less labor-intensive matzo ball

photo: LORIN GAUDIN

hybrid of Aunt Marsha and well-known cook Joan Nathan’s recipes.

The result is a tender, not-too-light-nor-too-dense matzo ball. Here is my recipe, a Passover gift to you…

INGREDIENTS 1 cup matzo meal 4 large eggs ¼ cup schmaltz (rendered chicken fat) or vegetable oil (Kosher for Passover) 2 tablespoons chicken stock ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ½ - 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley 1 teaspoon salt Additional salt and pepper to taste

METHOD In a bowl, beat the eggs well with a fork. Slowly add the stock, schmaltz, nutmeg, ginger and parsley, continuing to gently mix.

Add the salt and while mixing, slowly add the matzo meal to form a batter. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least three hours to overnight.

After resting the batter, it will be slightly stiff. Fill a deep pan with salted water and bring to a boil. With wet hands, lightly form the mix into rounds the size of a golf ball. Gently drop them into boiling salted water, repeating ‘til all the batter is used.

Cover the pan, turn the heat to low/low-medium and cook the matzo balls for about 30 or 35 minutes for denser “sinkers,” or a bit longer if you like them lighter (“floaters”). Once cooked, the matzo balls can go straight into your chicken soup. To make ahead: transfer cooked matzo balls to a baking sheet and freeze, then put into a freezer bag to be kept frozen until a few hours before serving. Reheat the thawed matzo balls in your soup and serve.

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Haute Plates

Andrea’s Restaurant and Catering 3100 19TH ST.

METAIRIE 504-834-8583

ANDREASRESTAURANT.COM Andrea’s offers the finest in

A selection of restaurants and haute dishes found around New Orleans and beyond.

Antoine’s

713 ST. LOUIS ST. NEW ORLEANS 504-581-4422

Antoine’s world renowned

Annunciation

1016 ANNUNCIATION ST.

NEW ORLEANS 504-568-0245

ANNUNCIATIONRESTAURANT.COM Annunciation Restaurant, located

French-Creole cuisine, impeccable

in New Orleans’ bustling Warehouse

Briquette

701 SOUTH PETERS ST. NEW ORLEANS 504-302-7496

BRIQUETTE-NOLA.COM Award-winning contemporary

service and grand historical

District, is walking distance to the New

coastal cuisine featuring Gulf

New Orleans local seafood, authentic

atmosphere create an unmatched

Orleans Convention Center and WWII

seafood and fish, beef, lamb, chicken,

Northern Italian, and Continental

French Quarter dining experience.

museum. Specializing in Southern

Maine Lobster and unique chef

Cuisine. Chef Andrea says, “My Home

Timeless favorites and fresh classics

and Creole cuisine, Annunciation is the

specials daily. Lunch, Dinner, Happy

is your Home.”

are served in 14 themed dining rooms

perfect setting for an intimate evening

Hour, Private Parties. Make your

and the Hermes Bar.

out or a corporate dinner.

reservations on OpenTable.

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Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard

Caffe! Caffe!

4301 CLEARVIEW PKWY.

819 RUE CONTI

METAIRIE, 504-885-4845

BROUSSARDS.COM

METAIRIE, 504-267-9190

NEW ORLEANS 504.581.3866

As Broussard’s commemorates 100 years of fine dining in the French Quarter,

3547 N. HULLEN ST. CAFFECAFFE.COM

In 1992, Lisa and Gerald Beck

they also celebrate our native foods that

opened the first Caffe! Caffe!, a

share the same rich history as our grande

friendly neighborhood café that would

dame restaurant. Chef Jimi Setchim pays

be a gathering place for business,

tribute to spices, a key ingredient in all

pleasure and after dinner coffee and

Louisiana cuisine, from April to June.

dessert. Meet me at … Caffe! Caffe!

Everyday Keto To Go METAIRIE, LA

504-957-9033

FACEBOOK.COM/

EVERYDAYKETOTOGO Voted Best Gluten Free Bakery of 2019 by The Gluten Free Guide to New Orleans. Local Bakery specializing in KETO, Gluten Free, Low Carb, and Sugar free baked goods including breads, cookies, cakes, and more!

Jaeger’s Seafood 901 S CLEARVIEW PKWY.

JEFFERSON 504-818-2200 JAEGERSSEAFOOD.COM A New Orleans tradition for over 70 years. Now located on Clearview Pkwy. near Elmwood Shopping Center, Jaeger’s still offers the area’s freshest seafood nightly and provides it in heaping servings, such as: Jaeger’s seafood platter feast, flame-broiled oysters, and awardwinning gumbo.

Haute Plates

Mosca’s 4137 US 90

WESTWEGO 504-436-8950

MOSCASRESTAURANT.COM Continuing our family tradition, for more than 60 years, customers have enjoyed specialty Italian cuisine at Mosca’s Restaurant. From familiar staples like spaghetti and meatballs to signature dishes like Oysters Mosca, every dish is prepared to order and served on family-style platters.

Sensible Meals OVER TEN PICK-UP

LOCATIONS AVAILABLE 985-237-1011

EATSENSIBLEMEALS.COM @SENSIBLEMEALS

Sensible Meals gives you 15 chef-prepared meals per week.

Menus are designed by a master trainer for rapid weight-loss, the meals are ready to heat and eat to meet your goals.

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New Orleans Creole Cookery 508 TOULOUSE ST.

NEW ORLEANS 504-524-9632

NEWORLEANSCREOLECOOKERY.COM Experience the traditional Creole tastes of New Orleans in the historic French Quarter. Specialties include jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, shrimp creole and raw and chargrilled oysters on the half shell. Craft cocktails and signature drinks with Happy Hour, weekdays 3-6pm.

Tommy’s Cuisine 746 TCHOUPITOULAS ST.

NEW ORLEANS 504.581.1103 TOMMYSCUISINE.COM Italian Creole cuisine served proudly in the heart of the Warehouse District. Explore authentic Italian cuisine with a satisfying blend of Creole culinary influence at your neighborhood Italian restaurant. Now serving lunch 7 days a week and brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

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Broussard’s Restaurant

HOUSED IN ITS HISTORIC French Quarter location, Broussard’s Restaurant is celebrating 100 years of attentive service and delectable French-Creole fare. In honor of its anniversary, Chef Jimi Setchim has crafted five seasonal, pre-fixe menus that represent key ingredients that have been integral to the culinary heritage of New Orleans.

The menus—focused on coffee, spices, rice, pecans and citrus—are being offered separately throughout the year, in addition to Broussard’s beloved a la carte menu.

“When it came time to begin writing menus for the 100th anniversary, I knew I would find inspiration in old cookbooks at the Historic New Orleans Collection,” Chef Setchim says.

“I immediately saw a trend, and I wanted to highlight these five important ingredients. They have been on our menus from the start and have shaped not only our history, but the culinary landscape of New Orleans. I am excited to give each ingredient its own special menu with a bit of history to go along with it.”

For the months of April, May and June, enjoy the Spices menu full of flavors that make Creole food what it is. Enjoy starter choices of French Onion Soup, Baked Oysters Amandine or Ponchatoula Strawberry Salad. For entrees, Chef Setchim plates Braised Rabbit Pot Pie, Creole Spiced Smothered Pork Chops or Shrimp Stuffed Crab. Finish with Black Forest Cake featuring cayenne and dark chocolate ganache and cherries or Lemon Chiffon Cake with Louisiana strawberries and crème fraiche. Of course a cocktail at the Empire Bar is always a nice addition!

Chef Setchim adds: “New Orleans, more than any other food city, is known for flavorful food—spicy, rich, bold, deep, and memorable are all common words used to describe the food we love and live by, in New Orleans.”

Broussard’s Restaurant is located at 819 Conti Street. For reservations, call 581-3866. broussards.com.

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by Leah Draffen

Creole Spiced Smothered Pork Chops with Cornbread Dressing, Haricot Vert and Caramelized Onion Gravy.

photo courtesy: BROUSSARD’S

Last Bite