June-July 2021 Issue of Inside New Orleans

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BUSINESS & LEADERSHIP • CHEF KEVIN BELTON • ZACH STRIEF • ROLE MODELS

JUNE-JULY 2021 VOL. 8, NO. 3

June-July 2021

Vol. 8, No. 3

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

Leah Draffen

Art Director

Brad Growden

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Mimi Goodyear Dossett

Lorin Gaudin

Anna Tusa

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Sarah Daigle

Amalie Murphy

Channing Thompson

Genevieve Daigle-Buring Poki Hampton Summer Tallant Trish Trahan

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Summer Tallant

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On the cover

Artist Abigail Reller.

Find more on page 12.

Visit InsideNewOrleansMagazine.com to view our online issue with direct links to our advertisers’ sites.

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 page 20 Adobe Creative Suite on Apple Macintosh computers.

page 22

contents table of

page 45

Departments

10 Publisher’s Note

56 INside Peek

17 INside Scoop

60 Drinks with Anna

Bringing the Heat to NOLA this Summer

38 IN Better Health

with Adam Diaz

62 IN the Kitchen

Fresh Basil Mayonnaise for 45 INside Look “Creole” Tomato Season

48 Travel 63 Haute Plates

Living for the Weekend 66 Last Bite 49 Summer Specials

Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop page 64 42 Flourishes

page 26

Features

12 Young at Art

Cover Artist Abigail Reller 22 On the Culinary Trail

Kevin Belton’s Cookin’ Louisiana 25 Business & Leadership 2021

40 Role Model Status

Fourth Graders Share Who They Admire 51 Senior Care 54 Live Life Well 8

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page 48

Publisher’s Note

by Jonée Daigle-Ferrand

It is officially summer, my favorite season. I am looking forward to Creole Tomato Festival, NOWFE, eating at different amazing local restaurants, sleeping a little later, and spending my days working and relaxing by the pool with my daughter, Lilette, close by.

Who else is excited about businesses opening at full capacity and being able to see friendly smiles? I have enjoyed attending luncheons and networking events. Inside New Orleans hosted the most fabulous Women IN Business Luncheon at Broussard’s Restaurant. Check out all of the women having a wonderful time networking in photos on pages 56-57.

I will let you in on a little secret: the cover painting is extra special to me. My daughter, nieces and nephews loved painting the cover with artist, Abigail Reller. Abbie calls it, “The Grey Collective.” On page 16 you will see the painting process with the kids. Once the kids are finished painting with their selected colors, Abbie uses her artistic talents to create a masterpiece, perfect for your home or office walls.

I am also pleased to present our talented 2021 Business & Leadership group starting on page 25. Inside New Orleans will honor this group in a fun summer-style cocktail event at Abigail Reller Art Studio.

Have a wonderful summer and do not forget to enjoy all of the local restaurant specials being offered. Also, be sure to check out P.O.W.E.R. Plates by Fidelity Bank in the month of July!

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Young at Art Cover Artist Abigail Reller

photo: CASEY MCMURRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

by Leah Draffen

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IT WAS DURING A SUMMER such as this that Abigail Reller and her daughter, Anna Frances, set out to paint a piece to go above their family sofa. “My husband kept encouraging me to do something I loved while my son was in daycare.

So, we got the supplies, and my daughter and I painted together. That first piece started it all once I posted it on social media.”

One family saw her post and had interest in Abigail painting with their sons, which led to a connection with interior designer Kristine Flynn, who loved the idea and offered her office as a place to paint. Abigail reflects, “Both of those women asked ‘what do we need to do to make this happen?’ I’ve learned that I really don’t think it’s possible to start a business on your own. It demands the generosity of others.”

On Saturdays, Abigail would clear out Flynn Designs’ lobby to set up for art sessions. “I would >>

photo: MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY MELANIE LANGTEAU

lay down Visqueen and drop cloths to paint with kids. It was perfect and allowed the idea to become something real.” Her sessions, coined The Grey Collaborative, swiftly outgrew Flynn Designs space which prompted Abigail to find a building on Metairie Road. In September 2019, she opened Abigail Reller Art. “Once we got the studio, it was able to take on a life of its own. It gave us a space and allowed us to come here with our three kids. They are playing while I’m painting, and my husband is helping me schedule clients and seal or paint sides. Initially, I had to ask myself, ‘Am I actually an artist? Is this what I do now?’” she laughs. A year later in 2020, Abigail resigned from her 9-year career as a religion teacher and took on art full time.

Her experience as a teacher is one of the many reasons why Abigail loves what she does. “It’s so fun. I feel like one of my gifts is a good rapport with children. It’s what made

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me a teacher and what has allowed this to happen.

“Through teaching I saw that everything has to be black and white for kids. There’s rarely room for grey area in school. But The Grey Collaborative gives them an opportunity to mix colors. There isn’t a right or wrong, and I love it. I think there aren’t enough things like that for kids and they need it. I love that they can do whatever on the canvas—they can’t mess it up. Parents will ask, ‘how are you so calm?’”

In terms of teaching, Abigail gives a nod to her art teachers at Archbishop Chapelle High School. “My art teachers there made me feel like I could actually do things. I didn’t think I could draw, but they taught me how. It’s the only art training I have had.” When Abigail discovered abstract art, she knew that she found her niche. “It didn’t have to be perfect or look a certain way,” Abigail explains.

Greatly inspired by color, Abigail’s goal is to create art that feels good. For commissions, Abigail always asks for pictures of the space from as far back as possible. The same goes for finishing The Grey Collaborative pieces. “I want to get a feel for what your space is like. That is the

Abigail Reller Art is located at 1623 Metairie Road in Metairie. Learn more at abigailrellerart.com and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @abigailrellerart.

504-491-5675.

photo: CASEY MCMURRAY PHOTOGRAPHY photo: MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY MELANIE LANGTEAU

most helpful part of the process. What does this need to feel like in the end? Does it need to be soothing and calm, or funky and fun? I love when a finished piece is brought into a space and it’s just right. It feels so intentional to hang art on your walls.”

When painting for herself, Abigail sometimes begins by writing words all over the canvas. “I mind dump on the canvas and then paint over it, but it often truly begins with a color palette that I recently used and loved. For me, it constantly goes back to what one wants to be surrounded with—and I want to be surrounded by light, bright and beautiful so that’s what I tend to create. Now, I do also love a dark, funky modern piece, and love seeing wherever that takes me.”

Truthfully, Abigail is still in awe of where art has taken her so far. “The way that it has grown has been amazing and humbling,” she says. “There’s a learning curve and I’m trying to be patient with myself and thankful when other people are patient with me. What I’m realizing, more and more, is that every time my business has moved to another level, it always involves a connection with someone else. I’m able to be an entrepreneur but also be there for my family. A lot of people work hard and don’t get to do those things. This is a combined effort, not only of my husband and I working really hard, but also of other people in our lives taking chances on us and helping us. It has been so awesome to see that.”

Summing up, Abigail adds, “To be completely honest, my favorite part of being a full-time artist is that it has served my family in the exact way that we needed at this time in our life. We have three small children, and this gives me flexibility. It’s not less work, but my kids are a part of it all the time, and they’re learning about art and work ethic. For that, I’m most grateful.”

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y e r G e Th e v i t a r o b Colla

First, Abigail will ask about the size of

your high-quality canvas and color palette that will work best in your home. On

session day, you bring your children to the studio for a 45-minute session where Abigail works with them to create rich, colorful, textured base layers. This is a calm, fun environment, where they will be exposed to a variety of techniques and materials. After the session, Abigail will work on the piece.

She says, “I always focus on highlighting the parts your child was most intentional about, while making the piece beautiful enough to hang in your home.” As soon as it’s done,

photos: MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY MELANIE LANGTEAU

the piece is available for pick up or delivery.

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INSIDE

Hogs for the Cause June 4-5 Hogs for the Cause in Belle Chasse. Barbeque competition and music from Robert Randolph and the Family Band featuring The Soul Rebels and Brandon ‘Taz’ Niederauer, The Iceman Special, Old Crow Medicine Show, Andy Frasco & The UN, Travers Brothership, Sweet Crude, and more. 15-acre Plaquemines Parish Government Facility, 333 F Edward Hebert Blvd, Belle Chasse. HogsFest.org.

photo courtesy: HOGS FOR THE CAUSE

June

2-3, 9-10, 17-18, 24-25 Virtual Concert: JFA All-Star Jazz Ensemble. Join the Jazz Museum online for their weekly virtual concerts, in which dynamic jazz musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in every Wednesday and Thursday at 2pm. facebook.com/ nolajazzmuseum/live.

4 Dinner and a Movie: Mystic Pizza.

Presented by the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute. Ticket includes a full-

service feast and specialty Roulaison cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage, with vegetarian options available. Cashless bar onsite with additional beverages and sweet treats.

NOCHI, 725 Howard Ave. 7:30-10pm. $65.

635-0017. nochi.org/movies.

4-5 Hogs for the Cause in Belle Chasse.

Barbeque competition and music from Robert Randolph and the Family Band featuring The Soul Rebels and Brandon

‘Taz’ Niederauer, The Iceman Special, Old Crow Medicine Show, Andy Frasco & The UN, Travers Brothership, Sweet Crude, and more. 15-acre Plaquemines Parish Government Facility, 333 F Edward Hebert Blvd, Belle Chasse. HogsFest.org.

5, 12, 19, 26 Champagne Saturdays.

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

8 Ella Brennan “Stand Up for Your >> J u n e - J u ly 2 0 21

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Inside Scoop Hometown” Awards Gala Dinners. The dinners will take place concurrently at three locations— Galerie de Galatoire, Rib Room, and Broussard’s. Traditionally given to one individual each year that has made a lifetime commitment to the hospitality industry, the board of directors of NOWFE decided this year to honor 13 organizations for their unwavering love and extraordinary response to supporting our community during the pandemic. Each restaurant venue will host a selection of award recipients. $150. nowfe. com.

8-13 New Orleans Wine & Food Experience. Throughout the six-day event, NOWFE will present wine and food labs and unique, hands-on experiences.

NOWFE will also host its Wine Dinners, Vinola, and Grand Tastings in addition to the Labs and Experiences. Ticket packages available. nowfe.com.

10 New Orleans Heart Ball Digital Celebration. 2021 Chairman, Philip Gunn. 7-8pm. neworleansheartball.heart. org.

12 Magnolia Ball. Benefiting the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, the night will include music, entertainment, and a silent auction. Timed ticketing required. 5399618. ogdenmuseum.org.

12 Swim for Brooke. The Brooke Erin Posey Foundation will host its annual Swim-a-thon at the Southern Yacht Club and virtually. Participants can enjoy logging in laps, food, games, prizes and more. Benefitting Angels’ Place this year. $35-$200. swimforbrooke.com.

13 Chef Soirée. Enjoy some of the best food, drink and entertainment the Northshore has to offer. Funds raised support programs of advocacy, counseling, education, and intervention for children in St. Tammany and Washington Parishes. Bogue Falaya Park, Covington. 5-9pm. chefsoiree.com.

13 Family Equality Day. Celebrating families of all shapes, sizes and definitions.

Activities, performances, a resource fair and more. Longue Vue House & Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd. longuevue.com.

20 Father’s Day Brunch. Briquette, 701 S Peters St. Reservations, 302-7496.

20 Father’s Day Brunch. New Orleans Creole Cookery, 510 Toulouse St. Reservations, 524-9632.

21 K-12 Cooking Program with Chef Frank Brigtsen. Join HGGHH for a cooking demo for kids and a conversation 18

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about his rise to one of the biggest names in New Orleans food. Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses, 820 St. Louis St. 5:30pm. hgghh.org.

21-27 Restaurant Week New Orleans.

Support your old favorites or try something new June 21-27 during Restaurant Week New Orleans! Enjoy 2-course lunches up to $25 or less, and 3-course dinners and brunches up to $45 or less. restaurantweekneworleans.com.

25-27 Essence Festival. The Essence festival has gone virtual with two back-toback weekends of music, entertainment, empowerment, webinars and guest speakers. Free. essence.com.

July

1-31 Fidelity P.O.W.E.R. Plates. A monthlong celebration of P.O.W.E.R.ful women in hospitality. Featured restaurants include: Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread, Chicken and Waffles; Kelley’s Village Inn; Casa Borrega; Saffron; The Bower; Birdy’s; Tujague’s; Rosemary & Roux; and more. Benefiting the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation. power-plates.com.

1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29 Virtual Concert: JFA All-Star Jazz Ensemble.

Join the Jazz Museum online for their weekly virtual concerts, in which dynamic jazz musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in every Wednesday and Thursday at 2pm. facebook.com/ nolajazzmuseum/live.

2-4 Essence Festival. The Essence festival has gone virtual with two back-to-back weekends of music, entertainment, empowerment, webinars and guest speakers. Free. essence.com.

3 Creole Tomato Festival. One-day hybrid festival with virtual and in-person activities. frenchmarket.org.

3 Kevin Belton’s Cookin’ Louisiana Premiere. WYES-TV, wyes.org/live and on the WYES and PBS apps every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and on Sundays at 11:00 a.m. wyes.org.

3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Champagne Saturdays.

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

9 Caymus Dinner. Five-course dinner paired with Caymus Wine. Briquette, 701 S Peters St. Reservations, 302-7496.

10 Running of the Bulls. Each year, the Crescent City hosts its own version of Spain’s Encierro de Pamplona with >> J u n e - J u ly 2 0 21

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Inside Scoop Running of the Bulls. Eager runners gather in Spain’s traditional colors making their way through New Orleans’ Warehouse District while dodging the Big Easy Rollergirls! nolabulls.com.

12-16 Astro Camp. Virtual reality, engineering challenges, NASA technology and more shipped to campers for fun at home. Join live or work at own pace. Presented by Fletcher Technical Community College. Grades K-12.

Fletcher.edu/bayou-stem.

14 Virtual French 75. Cocktail Kits available for sale for curbside pickup. A portion of the sales benefiting the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation. All guests must be 21 to participate. 5pm.sazerachouse.com.

17-18, 24-25 Parade of Homes. Parade of Homes is the largest official showcase of the latest in home design in the Greater New Orleans area. Presented by the Homes Builders Association of Greater New Orleans. Tour in-home or virtually. 1-5pm. HBAGNO.org/ paradeofhomes.

19-23 Shell Energy Venture Camp. Virtual reality, live interviews with industry professionals, three activities per day for one week, and more shipped to campers for fun at home. Join live or work at own pace. Presented by Fletcher Technical Community College. Grades 3-12.

Fletcher.edu/bayou-stem.

30-August 1 Satchmo SummerFest. Presented

by Chevron. Live music shows, food, drink, and

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special events including seminars and lectures. satchmosummerfest.org.

Looking Ahead August 1 Satchmo SummerFest. Presented by Chevron.

Live music shows, food, drink, and special events including seminars and lectures. satchmosummerfest.org.

September 30-October 3 French Quarter Festival.

Presented by Chevron. As the largest showcase of Louisiana music in the world, more than 20 stages throughout the French Quarter celebrate local music and represent every genre from traditional and contemporary jazz to R&B, New Orleans funk, brass bands, folk, gospel, Latin, Zydeco, classical, cabaret, and international. frenchquarterfest.org.

October 8-17 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

Presented by Shell. Hundreds of performances, food, drinks and entertainment at the New Orleans Fair Grounds. nojazzfest.com.

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

Fidelity P.O.W.E.R. Plates FIDELITY BANK and the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation (LHF) will celebrate women in the hospitality industry with their annual launch of P.O.W.E.R. Plates July 1 through 31. The fourweek celebration of women in the hospitality industry is part of Fidelity’s “Potential of Women Entrepreneurs Realized” (P.O.W.E.R.) program.

This year, more than 25 women-led restaurants and are participating in the giving program. The goal of the program is to raise awareness and drive business to women-led restaurants in the New Orleans area during the summer slow time.

“The New Orleans hospitality industry and their workers are experiencing unprecedent stress this year. P.O.W.E.R. Plates mission is to help support this critical industry by driving business to the restaurants.” says Elizabeth Broekman, Fidelity Bank Vice President and Director of P.O.W.E.R. “In addition, we are raising awareness of the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation mission of supporting Louisiana’s hospitality industry workforce through this crisis.”

Registrants may also make a donation to support the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation and Fidelity Bank will match the donation up to $2,500. “Women in the New Orleans hospitality industry have a tremendous impact on not only our city, but our entire state,” says LHF Executive Director Jennifer Kelley. “Programs like Fidelity Bank’s P.O.W.E.R. program are crucial in bringing women to the forefront and highlighting their successes and P.O.W.E.R.

Nicole Mackie of Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread Chicken & Waffles.

Plates is the perfect way to showcase these amazing women.”

Participating restaurants include: A Tavola, Birdy’s, Boulevard (Metairie and Elmwood location), Briquette, Broussard’s Restaurant, Casa Boregga, Copeland’s, Evolve Coffee, Gris Gris, Hyatt Centric, Kelley’s Village Inn, Los Jefus, Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood, Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread Chicken & Waffles - Pythian Market, New Orleans Creole Cookery, Pascal’s Manale, Pyre Provisions, Pho Michael, Rosemary & Roux, Saba Restaurant, Saffron NOLA, The Bower, TJ Gourmet at Pythian, Tujague’s, Vyoone’s Restaurant and more. Learn more at fidelitybankpower.com or power-plates.com.

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Kevin Belton’s Cookin’ Louisiana will air on WYESTV, wyes.org/live and on the WYES and PBS apps every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and on Sundays at 11:00 a.m. For all series information, go to wyes.org. Viewers can purchase an autographed copy of the series’ companion cookbook, of the same name, at wyes.org. A portion of cookbook sales benefits WYES and helps make series like this possible. National funding for Kevin Belton’s Cookin’ Louisiana is made possible by the L.E. Phillips Family Foundation. kevinbelton.wyes.org.

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photo: PHOTOGRAPH FROM KEVIN BELTON’S COOKIN’ LOUISIANA BY KEVIN BELTON. PHOTOGRAPHY BY DENNY CULBERT. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION OF GIBBS SMITH.

PREMIERING JULY 3, Chef Kevin Belton is eager for New Orleans and beyond to watch his fourth national series, Kevin Belton’s Cookin’ Louisiana. He says, “I feel very, very blessed. I am surrounded with people who are so talented that it’s truly a team effort. I think this is the best looking one yet.” The 26-part cooking series from WYES-TV takes viewers on a funfilled food odyssey with the 6’9” gregarious chef.

The road trip takes Chef Belton from the River Parishes, where the region’s German heritage influences its food culture, to Acadia Parish where he’ll “have a rice day” in a locale known as the Rice Capital of America. In Sabine Parish the chef will sample tamales in a pocket of Spanish culture dating back to the 18th century. And in Arnaudville, he’ll go in search of the Cajun Kevin Po Boy, an upright seafood and sausage stuffed sandwich inspired by the cypress knees of the bayou.

Other dishes reflect Louisiana’s complex blending of cultures, preparing Filipino-style Beef Tapa with Sinangag (Garlic Fried Rice), Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls and traditional Czech Kolaches. In the studio, he will prepare his take on flavor packed dishes of the state and encourages viewers to put their spin on recipes too! “All of the recipes I try to keep simple and basic that anybody can do and not be intimidated by,” Chef Belton says.

“The other great thing is if you look at a recipe and it calls for one thing, make it with something else. If it calls for shrimp, make it with chicken. If it calls for chicken, try it with shrimp.

Change it up and put your signature on it!” The Cookin’ Louisiana crew especially enjoyed Chef Belton’s Louisiana Citrus Cake and Hogs Head Cheese made with pork butt.

Excited to share his recipes, Chef Belton mentioned a couple things that go unseen. “The set is made for my height.

Something that folks don’t get to see is that on a couple of the cameras, the guys actually have to raise them up on platforms, the counter is raised and it’s a very deep set to make me look normal size,” he explains.

But more importantly, Chef Belton is grateful for his crew and support team. “The crew is like family. And my wife, Monica, is such a driving force and support for me.

You know they say behind every successful man, there’s a wonderful woman. Behind me, I have not only Monica but producer Terri Landry and associate producer Dawn Smith.

So, I have three wonderful women behind me making this show look really great.”

He adds, “Everybody gets to see me, but it takes a team.

In the book, Monica made sure we got a staff picture. I wanted everyone to see everybody that puts it together. We have such a good time making it and we hope people enjoy it as much as we had fun making it.”

On the Culinary Trail Kevin Belton’s Cookin’ Louisiana

HUMMINGBIRD CAKE Makes 12 servings 2 cups pecans, chopped, divided 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 1⁄2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1⁄2 teaspoon allspice 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt 2 cups mashed bananas 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained 3 large eggs, room temperature

2⁄3 cup vegetable oil 1 cup packed dark brown sugar 3⁄4 cup sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting 16 ounces cream cheese, softened 3⁄4 cup butter, softened 5 cups powdered sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 tablespoon milk 1⁄8 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Spread pecans onto a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Toast for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven. Turn oven up to 350 degrees then grease and lightly flour 3 (9-inch) cake pans.

Whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt together in a large bowl. Combine the bananas, pineapple, eggs, oil, brown sugar, sugar, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until completely combined.

Fold in 1 1/2 cups toasted pecans.

Spread batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Rotate pans halfway through baking.

Remove cakes from the oven and allow to cool completely in

the pans set on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, remove cakes from pans and level the tops off so they are flat.

To make frosting, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.

Add powdered sugar, vanilla, milk, and salt. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds then switch to high speed and beat for 2 minutes. Taste.

Add more salt if needed.

Place 1 cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Evenly cover the top with frosting. Top with second layer and evenly cover the top with frosting. Finish with the third cake layer and spread the remaining frosting all over the top and sides. Garnish with remaining toasted pecans. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing or else the cake may fall apart as you cut.

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Danica Ansardi, CLU, ChFC, MBA, AIF® The Ansardi Group

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Felicia Schimpf NEAT Method

31 Drs. Elizabeth B. Grieshaber and Rachael Delahoussaye-Shields T&G Dermatology

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Justin Quin, Ann Mandle Quin and Lincoln Duhon Vintage Title

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Paula Polito Beary Cherry Tree

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Anna Tusa Briquette and New Orleans Creole Cookery

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Daniel Munn LakeRunner Properties

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Heather Duhe Hair by Heather

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Megan Naccari Saintly Skin

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Raven Davis Studio Lu Elle

36 Alison L. Burns Schonk, MBA, Founder & CEO Precision Payment Systems

35 Reagan Charleston Thomas Reagan Charleston Jewelry

Being honored at the Business & Leadership Reception and Meet the Artist Party 36

Jessica D. LeBlanc Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC / CPA Realty

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David Rawson LA Custom Flooring

Thursday, June 17 5:30-7:30pm Abigail Reller Art Studio 1623 Metairie Rd. J u n e - J u ly 2 021

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B U S I N E S S

&

L E A D E R S H I P

Zach Strief behind the bar at The Port Orleans Brewing Company, where he is a co-owner.

Lead Blocker Entrepreneur and Former Saints Player Zach Strief

by Leslie Cardé

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photo: BEEBE TRAN/STUDIOTRAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Opposite page: Zach Strief, as right tackle for the New Orleans Saints, during his 12-year career with the organization.

WHEN ZACH STRIEF RETIRED from the New Orleans Saints in 2018, after a stellar career at right tackle, he was part of a statisticsetting offensive line. He had seen it all. He was drafted in 2006 out of Northwestern, the same year the team returned to New Orleans’ rebuilt Superdome after Hurricane Katrina, and the same year that Sean Payton came on as head coach. That team would go on to win the Super Bowl after the 2009 NFL season, making Strief part of the most successful era in franchise history.

Leaving the NFL was bittersweet, but a 2017 knee injury cinched his departure. And, once knowing that Ryan Ramczyk, a first-round draft pick who’d taken Strief’s place while he was injured, was more than capable of defending Drew Brees from unwanted hits, it made his exit more palatable. And, after all, his coach Sean Payton had always emphasized that NFL careers are short, and that no one begins his life’s work until after he’s finished playing professional football. So, for Strief, at 34, now what?

“Leaving the Saints, there were two things I said I would never do,” remembers Strief. “Although both of these professions made the most sense as a logical transition from professional sports, I swore I would never get into broadcasting, nor would I become a coach.”

Ah, famous last words. Strief laughs about it now, but at the time, the allure of business was calling, and he was seriously debating about going back to school to get his MBA. However, a conversation he had on a boat propelled him in a slightly different direction.

“I was on vacation with my wife, when my father-in-law, attorney Tom Discon, mentioned that he and his best friend Ricky Thomas, owner of Blue Runner Foods, had been talking about opening a craft brewery for the past five to six years,” recounts Strief. “I thought to myself I didn’t know much about running a brewery/restaurant, and being in business with family was something my own father had always warned me against. However, in speaking to my dad about this proposition, his assessment was that I could either go back to school for my MBA, or get one on the fly, by learning from some really accomplished business people who would guide me and teach me.”

And so, The Port Orleans Brewing Company was born on Tchoupitoulas Street, smack in the middle of what was once known as the Storyville District along the Mississippi river. Once upon a time it was notable for its red light district, made famous in the film “Pretty Baby” with Brooke Shields. But, it was also a center of commerce with a slew of very profitable businesses. The area was often credited as the birthplace of jazz, back when Jelly Roll Morton was on the music scene there, so it’s always been a center of activity.

Meanwhile, as other investors entered the Port Orleans picture, with Charlie Barnett, Mike Tilly and Dean Lacey coming on board, Zach invited his longtime friend Don Noel, former COO

of the New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood Company, to take the reins as managing partner. The result was a wildly successful brewery and restaurant which appealed to the discerning hops and barley palates of New Orleanians everywhere.

But, how does that John Lennon song go, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans”? With consummate TV and radio broadcaster Jim Henderson set to retire, including stepping down from his post as the Voice of the Saints announcer on WWL Radio, a vacuum was about to occur in the broadcast booth. One which the radio giant was eager to fill. A bevy of New Orleans broadcasters applied for the job, but it ultimately went to recently retired Zach Strief, the man who had previously said he would never become a broadcaster. His former teammate Deuce McAllister had already been in the booth with Henderson for a couple of seasons and warned Strief that broadcasting wasn’t as easy as it looked, no matter how well you knew the game.

“He showed a lot of candor in that moment,” explains Strief. “He pointed out that while he was green, he had Henderson to show him the ropes, but that I would have him, and as he duly pointed out, he was still trying to figure out what he was doing.”

Undeterred, Strief marched forward in his new role as play-byplay analyst. Before Henderson walked out the door, he showed Strief some of the important mechanics of the job, but Zach didn’t have much time to rehearse.

It’s important to note here that former NFL players, like Tony Romo who now works for CBS, were groomed long before they donned headsets and a microphone. In fact, Strief’s former teammate Drew Brees has had the luxury of NBC’s “boot camp”, before he will ever utter a word as a studio analyst for “Football Night in America.” But, it was a total stranger who empathized with Strief’s plight as a neophyte that would change the trajectory of the newbie’s broadcast career.

“Gerry Sandusky, the voice of the Baltimore Ravens, reached out to me blindly,” recounts Strief. “He told me that when he first got into broadcasting, no one gave him any help, and he didn’t want me to go through the same thing. He’d read in various publications the concern out there about players like me going directly from the field to the broadcast booth, so his empathy and his help was beyond fantastic. He was the single biggest influence, putting me squarely in the right direction. He has remained a good friend.”

A quick study, Strief slid into his new role with grace and professionalism. Being in broadcasting, as he noted, kept him engaged with the Saints organization, and around the teams he had spent so much time with. He was always more than a media type, strolling into locker rooms whenever he wanted, as he’d been there and done that. But, somehow, it didn’t feel like enough. >>

photo: MICHAEL C. HEBERT / NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

“I played my whole career in New Orleans, my wife is from New Orleans, and there was a very strong pull to re-invest in my community.”

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“When I started watching game tapes as part of my play-by-play job, I would notice things from the eye of a player, and thought I could probably help some of these guys,” recounts Strief. “But, should the play-by-play guy be calling the starting right guard and giving him advice?

I did it with the guys I knew, but otherwise it just wasn’t a comfortable space.”

Life continued for Zach Strief, during the NFL season as a broadcaster, and during the off-season as an active participant in the brewery. And then, in March 2020, the pandemic hit, shuttering the restaurant and bar, as the brewery still produced beer for the grocery stores.

But, there wasn’t enough work to keep the entire staff employed, and there was a great desire to help the community of restaurant industry workers who suddenly found themselves without a way to put food on their own tables. Out of this need, POB United, a charitable

Zach Strief broadcasting for WWL Radio from the Superdome with (from l-r), Jordan Fiegal (spotter) Scott Alexander (content coordinator) Deuce McAllister (color analyst and former Saints teammate of Strief’s).

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foundation, was created. The brewery utilized its own kitchen, and made food for people who no longer had the means to buy their own. And, while the restaurant owners absorbed the costs involved in keeping their own employees on, feeding those in need would require an infusion of cash.

“I put out a group text to about 20 current and former linemen and explained that we wanted to provide free meals to those who’d been waylaid from the service industry, and that in order to do that, we needed money,” remembers Strief. “I pointed out how good that industry had been to us, often giving us a table for 14 with two hours-notice on a Friday night. Within the first 24 hours, we had $70,000.”

The boys in black and gold had come through. Of course, no one ever dreamed that the pandemic and the attendant restaurant restrictions would go on for nearly

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as long as they did. But, forging ahead, the brewery formed an alliance with the Brees Dream Foundation, allowing them to partner with others in the food industry, even creating food boxes for those being discharged from the hospital, who needed food, but shouldn’t be going to grocery stores. Each box contained three meals a day for seven days, consisting of fresh meat, produce, and canned goods. With vouchers in hand, thousands came to the brewery to have their trunks loaded with food, curbside. Over the next six months, the charity raised over $250,000 and gave out over 100,000 meals.

“You know, any time you open a business, it’s a big risk,” notes Strief. “I played my whole career in New Orleans, my wife is from New Orleans, and there was a very strong pull to re-invest in my community. I wanted to create jobs, and we’ve done so much more—we’ve been instrumental in helping the community itself.”

For Zach Strief, life has come full circle. And, that coaching job he said he’d never take, when first leaving the Saints as a player? Well, never say never. Less than three months ago, he held a press conference announcing he was leaving the broadcast booth to become an offensive line coach for the New Orleans Saints.

“What tipped the scales for me was Coach Payton calling and saying there was going to be an opening with the offensive line,” says Strief, thinking back. “A couple of conversations later, I realized I needed to stop fighting the urge I had with wanting to be involved again. This was an opportunity to work with my coach, my GM, and my guys, in a town I was already living in. If I didn’t do it now, would I regret it?”

For coach Payton, he knew exactly why he wanted Zach Strief back in the fold, as he eloquently explained.

“Zach was not only an outstanding player, but is one who understands the intent of every play and the game plan as a whole. He understands the multiple schemes and how to impart that knowledge to the players, which will be beneficial to the team in his new role. I think that players, regardless of their age or experience, genuinely appreciate coaches who are willing to help them improve.

You only need to be around Zach for a few minutes and you realize how intelligent he is and how he’s able to effectively communicate. It should not be a difficult transition for him because he’s been around our program for so long and understands the way we do things here. He’s doing a great job already, and I’m excited for him.”

As for finding his life’s work after being a pro football player? He not only found Act Two, but Three and Four, as well. In May, his brewery launched a new hazy IPA called Vice Versa, a nod to the dichotomy that is New Orleans— devoutly religious people on one hand and Bourbon Street on the other. A little of this and a little of that. Decidedly New Orleans, and decidedly Zach Strief.

F I N A N C I A L

A N D

I N V E S T M E N T

A D V I S O R

It’s The Ansardi Group’s attention to the future that ensures the best for its clients. “We have a keen ability to keep our eye on the ball, and it is that philosophy that keeps our client base gravitating toward us,” says owner Danica Ansardi, CLU, ChFC, MBA, AIF®. “By maintaining our focus on the future, we ensure that we continue to thrive and so do our relationships with current and prospective clients.”

With her own expansive financial services knowledge, Danica opened Ansardi Financial Services (AFS) in 2007. As the years passed, the firm grew to include her son, Tray Ansardi, MBA, CFP®, coming on as a partner. The once two-person firm now has seven members, all holding various licenses and certifications. As the focus of AFS evolved, they believed that the caliber of their clients deserved a more prestigious name. The Ansardi Group emerged, exemplifying the expertise of the entire team.

Today, The Ansardi Group excels at working with families and business with a focus on long-term financial goals and a commitment to meeting those

Danica Ansardi, CLU, ChFC, MBA, AIF® THE ANSARDI GROUP

goals through extensive planning, saving, investing,

Retirement Strategies, Investment Management,

your goals in mind. “People often feel it’s either too

and risk management. At the firm’s inception, it had

Estate Planning, 529 Plans & Educational IRAs,

late or too early to start financial planning which is

$12M assets under management and now it has over

Risk Management, Wealth Protection, Long-term

simply not the case,” Danica says. “Today is always a

$250M assets under management. “We feel our new

Care Needs, Income Replacement, and Health

good day to start planning for your future.”

name and look more clearly illustrates how our firm has

& Disability. For the self-employed or business

evolved over the last decade and supports our growing

owners, Employee Benefits, Retirement Planning,

is licensed in Life/Health, Property/Casualty, and

ambition in our industry,” says Danica. “Though our

and Executive Compensation Plans are available.

securities licensed in Series 6, 7, 34 and 63. She

name has changed, our objective for our clients is still

“We want people to know that our mission,

With more than 30 years of experience, Danica

also holds both the Chartered Life Underwriter and

very clear. We bring financial confidence to our clients’

values, and vision are clear from the very

Chartered Financial Consultant designation from the

lives, so they can focus on the things that matter most.”

beginning. Those three things are the very essence

American College and is certified as an Accredited

of each conversation and action we have with

Investor Fiduciary. Additionally, she has an MBA from

sets the tone for the future of the firm. It signifies

clients,” adds Danica. “We understand people have

Loyola University. Danica’s area of focus is financial

our renewed commitment to the New Orleans

options, but it’s the elevated experience we provide

planning for individuals and businesses. She

metropolitan area and our expertise in driving the

and our purpose-driven focus that brings clients to

currently is a member of The Rotary Club of Belle

innovations needed to better shape the financial

us. We enter into a partnership with you and build

Chasse, Society of Financial Service Professionals

future of our clients.”

a plan for you with the expectation that it will be a

- New Orleans Chapter, Republican Women of

long-term, mutually rewarding relationship.”

Louisiana, Plaquemines Parish Fair & Orange Festival

While no financial advisor can guarantee

and Plaquemines Association of Business & Industry.

Tray states, “We believe the name change truly

Whether you’re saving for retirement or building your business, you’ll receive one-on-one guidance and planning from the experienced team.

success and past performance is not a guarantee

She serves on the board of the Westbank Business &

The Ansardi Group offers several personal services,

of future results, The Ansardi Group bases their

Industry Association and is the secretary/treasurer of

including: Comprehensive Financial Planning,

recommendations on sound financial principles with

the West Jefferson Hospital Foundation.

The Ansardi Group is located at 8611 LA-23, Ste 1-C, in Belle Chasse. 504-393-2228. ansardigroup.com.

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H O M E

O R G A N I Z I N G providing a more luxurious and smartly appointed living space. We recognize that life gets hectic and that maintaining an organized home can become a challenge. NEAT Method will design and implement a customized solution that is not only effective but sustainable.”

When a client hires NEAT Method, they can choose from organization services for bathrooms, closets, kitchens, nurseries, offices, pantries, playroom and everything in between. “I believe our clients appreciate our honest and judgment free approach, sharp eye for detail, and personal sense of style,” she says.

For moving and relocating, Felicia and her team offer pre-move prep, manage logistics, unpack and organize, create customized solutions, and ensure every detail is complete. She goes to work ensuring that all parts of the process are done right including partnering with other highly qualified vendors like movers, consignment companies, and more. “We provide a white glove, full service. We don’t require the client to work alongside us, but instead prefer they leave all the details to us.” But if you prefer a more DIY approach, the NEAT It Now program provides a personalized shopping list and step-by-step instructions on how to make your space NEAT. “Whether you live on the northshore or southshore, you can expect the

Felicia Schimpf NEAT METHOD

Felicia Schimpf is making life in New Orleans NEAT. After moving close to 30 times for her husband’s professional baseball career, Felicia learned about NEAT Method. “NEAT Method is popular with

same honest approach, sharp eye for detail, and personal sense of refined style,” Felicia adds. “We believe that once your life is clutter free and well arranged, you will have a new appreciation for the importance of living NEAT.” Felicia is a supporter of the Miracle League Northshore and Girls on the Run New Orleans. She and her husband, Ryan, live in Covington with their three children, Kenley (5), Reed (4) and Beau (3 months).

the baseball community because families are relocated so frequently. Yet, organization has always been a part of me,” Felicia says. “It is a huge part of my lifestyle and truly makes me happy. Bringing the NEAT life to the greater New Orleans area has been such a blessing.”

Being an entrepreneur is in Felicia’s blood. She says, “Everyone has people in their lives who they draw inspiration from. My grandfather immigrated to the United States from Mexico at the tender age of 14 with a 3rd grade education. He was the youngest son of nine children and a widowed mother upon arrival. It was not long thereafter that he met my grandmother.

They married a few years later. With a strong desire for independence, 13 years later, they launched their own business enterprise with an $800 investment and a family of six. What began as a vision 53 years ago, became a prosperous tile and stone contracting company and life.”

In April 2019, Felicia launched the first NEAT Method market in Louisiana to provide white glove services ranging from organization to moves and relocations. Felicia says, “NEAT Method is a lifestyle service committed to

NEAT Method services the Greater New Orleans area. (985) 705-2014. neatmethod.com.

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D E R M A T O L O G Y

Drs. Elizabeth B. Grieshaber and Rachael Delahoussaye-Shields T&G DERMATOLOGY to not be fooled by Instagram time lapse pictures,

Dermatology. She is an associate faculty member at

Dermatology is a premier medical and cosmetic

filters, or too good to be true miracle products with

LSU and enjoys teaching the residents on the days

dermatology clinic, providing patients with the

unbelievable before and after pictures on social

she is not at the clinic.

most up-to-date and comprehensive dermatologic

media. Severe acne and scarring is not cured by

care. Drs. Elizabeth B. Grieshaber and Rachael

miracle online products, and certainly does not

dermatologist, Dr. Rachael Delahoussaye-Shields

Delahoussaye-Shields achieve this by offering

go away with fancy filters. Drs. Grieshaber and

earned her bachelor’s degree from the University

comprehensive treatments for general dermatology

Delahoussaye-Shields create customized treatment

of Alabama and graduated from LSU School

issues such as skin cancer, acne, eczema, rosacea,

plans that are personalized to each acne patient.

of Medicine, also completing her residency in

Serving the greater New Orleans area, T&G

as well as cosmetic dermatology.

“We are willing to help patients every step

A New Orleans native and board-certified

Dermatology at LSU. After residency, she practiced

“Our overall mission is to treat the whole

of the way when treating their skin conditions,

dermatology in Wisconsin, but is glad to be back

person, helping them look good and feel good from

relieving as many symptoms as possible,” Dr.

serving the dermatologic needs of New Orleans.

the inside out,” says Dr. Grieshaber. “We like our

Delahoussaye-Shields says. “We aim to help

patients to be educated and proactive in keeping

patients feel comfortable in their own skin by

guidance and understanding of issues that they

their skin healthy, and that comes with them

providing excellent patient care, with a personal

feel are overwhelming to them. We hope to provide

knowing that their skin concerns are fully addressed

touch, so that they feel confident and happy with

an affirmation that they are receiving the best

and well cared for by our team. No matter the skin

what they see in the mirror.”

treatments and using great products, and that

type or skin issues, we want our patients to achieve their best skin and exude confidence within it.”

Dr. Elizabeth Grieshaber is a native of the New

“We want our patients to really look for

T&G Dermatology is a place for them to go for any

Orleans area and a board-certified dermatologist. She

skincare needs and questions that they may have,”

attended LSU School of Medicine and completed her

Dr. Grieshaber says. “We want to provide the sense

initiative, “Forget the Filter: Let’s Get Everything

residency at LSU. She practiced dermatology at the

of security to our patients and want them to know

Clear.” The focus of this initiative is to help patients

Cleveland Clinic prior to the establishment of T&G

they are in good hands.”

T&G recently launched an acne treatment

T&G Dermatology is located at 3800 Houma Boulevard, Suite 310, Metairie. (504) 454-2997. terezakisgrieshaberdermatology.com.

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T I T L E

I N S U R A N C E

practice areas and cities during the past several years, I am excited to be working in real estate, in my hometown, where the street names all sound familiar.” Justin earned his Juris doctorate from Tulane Law School in 2016.

“When you come see us on closing day, I’ll be there to meet you, go over the documents with you, and answer any questions you might have,” Justin says. “I’ll also be the main attorney working the files from inception to closing. So, if you have any questions at any stage of the process, feel free to reach out to me. I’ll be happy to talk.”

When a client chooses Vintage Title, they gain the advantage of a highly experienced, professional team who is committed to providing excellent service. As a real estate title company, Ann and her staff handle all real estate transactions.

This includes full sales, refinances, Bond For Deed transactions, donations, successions and wills.

They negotiate judgements and liens and handle

Justin Quin, Ann Mandle Quin and Lincoln Duhon VINTAGE TITLE

Over 20 years ago, Ann Mandle Quin founded Vintage Title with a small office in Gretna. Today,

admitted to practice in all Louisiana state courts.

The new Uptown location welcomes Ann’s

Vintage has three locations including a new

son, Justin, as the main closing attorney. Ann says,

Uptown location. “I feel a sense of accomplishment.

“I am very excited about bringing Vintage Title to

We are very fortunate to have a great clientele

Uptown. I live in the area and both of my sons went

and very committed employees,” Ann says. “My

to Jesuit. Justin grew up hearing about real estate

employees are long term. The majority have been

law and title work. I think it is in his DNA so I’m

with me for 15 to 20 years.

thrilled to have him join Vintage Title.”

“We have persevered through hurricanes,

Justin says, “I am happy to be back home

pandemics and everything in between.” As

in New Orleans, close to friends and family. I’m

managing attorney, Ann has nearly 30 years of

excited to work with agents, lenders and clients in

experience in the title industry, having managed

the New Orleans area, some of whom I know from

the closings for over 10,000 residential and

growing up here. After working in a variety of legal

commercial real estate transactions. She is an expert on successions, wills, and donations, and is certified by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission to teach continuing education. Ann earned her JD from Loyola University College of Law, is a licensed title insurance producer and a notary public and is

various litigation files.

The team also includes a full-time marketing and business development representative, Lincoln Duhon. Lincoln is out in the community daily meeting real estate agents to further Vintage Title’s development. She is on the Women’s Council of Realtors New Orleans Metropolitan board and plans real estate networking events as often as possible. She is thrilled for Vintage Title’s expansion and continued growth.

As for the next 20 years, Ann is excited to see what’s next, especially with her son on board.

“I’m very lucky to be able to join a wellestablished and successful business like Vintage Title. And I couldn’t ask for a better boss,” Justin smiles. “Before returning home, I worked for a pair of large law firms. Those experiences were rewarding, and I learned a lot about how to be an effective attorney, but they lacked a personal connection. I’m very happy now to be able to join Vintage Title and help continue to build the business that my mom started over 20 years ago.”

Vintage Title has three convenient locations in Gretna, Uptown and Metairie. vintagetitle504.com.

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C H I L D

C A R E

S E A F O O D

&

C O C K T A I L S

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.

Paula Polito

BEARY CHERRY TREE “Ninety percent of brain development occurs between birth and 4 years old,” says Paula Polito owner of Beary Cherry Tree. “The work we do is critical and must be prioritized.”

For infants beginning at 6 weeks old to a PK program preparing children for kindergarten, Beary Cherry Tree ensures high quality care in a nurturing environment. Passionate about early childhood development, Paula says, “I enjoy seeing the social, emotional and academic growth each child develops as a result of the quality of interactions our team provides. I also enjoy seeing the team of teachers support each other on a daily basis.”

Paula is the third-generation owner of Beary Cherry Tree, which was founded by her grandmother in 1971. To continue the family’s mission to provide excellent early care and education for all children, Paula purchased the center from her mother in 1999. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, MBA and currently is a Doctoral Student at the University of New Orleans.

“With both guardians in the workforce these days, most children are in childcare settings,” Paula says. “We are grounded in interactions between our children and teachers as well as developing relationships with every family.

Parents most appreciate the level of care our teachers provide to the children we serve. This is done through low ratios, certified teachers and a Tier 1 curriculum.”

Briquette is housed in the former Rodd Brothers Molasses Refinery.

Nestled in the Warehouse District, Briquette features a contemporary, yet casual, restaurant interior marked by a signature open kitchen. “Our 18-foot seafood display is filled with fresh sea bass, halibut, steelhead salmon, Louisiana redfish, and many other seafood favorites that are caught daily,” says Anna. “Fresh and whole fish are our specialties, prepared over red-hot briquettes.”

I’m truly proud and honored to write the Drinks with Anna column for Inside New Orleans magazine.

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 enjoy traditional Creole food. The new and improved courtyard has a beautiful mural by a local artist, string lights and a courtyard bar. “We have hosted a pandemic wedding reception as well as several rehearsal dinners,” Anna says. “And our recent brunch has been a well-received addition on beautiful NOLA weekends.”

Anna serves as President of the French Market Corporation Board of Directors, is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs Small Business program, and is a member of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, which is the oldest and largest food and wine society in the world. She was recently inducted into Société Mondiale du Vin, which focuses on wine and spirit appreciation.

“At both restaurants, we are focusing on safe, fun and delicious wine and spirited dinners to give our local customers something to look forward to during this time,” Anna explains. “Seeing their positive reactions to our dishes and their interactions with our staff makes my job very fulfilling.” When not welcoming guests, Anna enjoys traveling, eating and experiencing new cultures with her husband, A.J.

Beary Cherry Tree is located at 3117 Lake Villa in Metairie.

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

(504) 455-1950. bearycherrytree.com.

neworleanscreolecookery.com.

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R E A L

E S T A T E

H A I R

E X T E N S I O N S

Daniel Munn

LAKERUNNER PROPERTIES When working with Daniel Munn, your Real Estate experience will be far from impersonal. In fact, by closing time, you may feel like a family member.

Heather Duhe

“Family and friends are very important to me,” says Daniel. “I always want to make my clients feel like family while also providing excellent communication and customer service.”

A quick glance at Daniel’s social media proves his investment in both his community and family. After flipping several houses with his wife, Taylor, Daniel earned his real estate license in 2017. “I wanted to be able to buy and sell my own properties, but soon realized I could do things differently than other realtors.”

Using his marketing degree from LSU and social media expertise, Daniel has harnessed the power of video to create a lasting clientele placing him in the top 20 percent of North Shore realtors.

“I’m able to boost my clients’ properties through video,” Daniel adds. “But it’s not all about real estate, I use the attention for good by highlighting local businesses, charities and nonprofits too.”

Daniel videos his visits to local businesses and nonprofits to share with his followers. Amidst the pandemic, Daniel and his wife created Pay It Forward North Shore on Facebook, which helps local businesses by gift card purchases of various amounts. The effort has raised thousands of dollars so far.

Daniel, a New Orleans native, married Taylor, an artist from Lafayette, in 2017. They have a 9-month-old son, Camden, who often joins his parents at listing and closings. “I love being with my family and making connections at the same time. My business is thriving because of the freedom and flexibility to take my family with me.

“When you make a deal with me, you gain a friend. You’re not just a transaction.”

HAIR BY HEATHER

When sitting in Heather Duhe’s chair, you can have peace of mind in her honesty (and humor). “Think about it. I am in control of someone’s hair appearance,” she says. “It takes a lot of courage to trust someone to be in control of that because it is a huge feature on our bodies.

“I try to make anyone who sits in my chair feel very comfortable with my quirkiness and imperfections. I believe it’s easy to relate to someone that doesn’t seem perfect.”

With a decade of experience and a keen eye for beauty, Heather says, “My customers appreciate that I do not set them up for unrealistic expectations.

If I don’t think we can achieve it in one sitting, I’m not going to take your money and scoot you out the door with something you weren’t expecting.

Instead, I try to paint a clear path on what you’ll see at the end of each session, acknowledging the hair integrity, with its hair history in mind.”

In addition to beautiful cuts and color, Heather is a handtied hair extension specialist certified in Natural Beaded Rows (NBR). “I love transforming my clients into someone they never thought was possible with the extension method called Natural Beaded Rows. NBR is hands down the best and least damaging hair extensions on the market. It truly gives you the exact look you’re going for with a low maintenance lifestyle.”

Heather is also furthering her education in extension methods at DKW Styling Academy. Looking ahead, she’s eager to continue making her clients feel their best. “I get to create something fresh and new every day and seeing the feelings attached to it when the client sees herself is priceless, but I’m more than just a hairdresser, I’m a woman with many flaws and my door is always open. Be blessed!”

Daniel serves clients on the north and south shores through LakeRunner Properties powered by Keller Williams. Reach Daniel at 504-908-7572 or danielmunn@kw.com. Follow Daniel on Instagram @daniel.munn.

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Hair by Heather

Follow Heather on Instagram and see her work @heatherduhe_hairstylist.

J E W E L R Y

D E S I G N E R

S K I N

C A R E

Megan Naccari Reagan Charleston Thomas REAGAN CHARLESTON JEWELRY

Reagan Charleston never thought she would work in the arts. “Growing up in my grandparents’ art galleries, I never saw myself doing something creative. My mom is a copper sculpture artist and so were my grandparents, but I wanted to go to law school,” Reagan says.

But in 2013, inspiration sparked during her second trip to Florence, Italy. “I fell in love with everything there in college—especially the lion doorknockers.” Lions were also a vivid memory of Reagan’s childhood at her grandparents’ Toulouse Street gallery located at the Court of Two Lions.

“After my trip, I wanted to make a piece to commemorate my special connection to Florence. I found a wax artist and had the lion doorknocker piece carved. When I started wearing it, I couldn’t go anywhere without someone asking where I got it and that’s when the light bulb went off.”

Seven years later, Reagan has now sold thousands of those lion doorknockers to clients all over the world. In October 2018, she opened her store at Canal Place.

“There’s a lot of unknowns when opening a store, but this has been a magical way to meet our customer base.”

As 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.”

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 Orleans and the Gulf Coast area.

“As a woman in business and a mother, I feel empowered. I know that I will push my daughter to do things for herself as well,” she adds. “I never saw myself doing this for a living, but it found me.”

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.”

Reagan Charleston Jewelry is located at 333 Canal Street, Ste 200A,

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

and online at reagancharleston.com.

475-5510. saintlyskin.com.

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H A I R

S A L O N

P A Y M E N T

S Y S T E M S

Alison L. Burns Schonk, MBA, Founder & CEO PRECISION PAYMENT SYSTEMS

With a servant’s heart, Alison L. Burns Schonk opened Precision Payment Systems (PPS) in August 2013. “I saw a grave need for small business owners to have options,” Alison says. “I knew that small businesses needed somebody genuine who would match-make processors with their needs and budgets.”

Nearly eight years later, she and her team of mostly women resell seven different processing options to a wide variety of industries and six different point of sale systems exclusively for retail and restaurant businesses. “That gives us the ability to shop around for the best rates possible for a business while providing impeccable customer service,” Alison explains.

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

Raven Davis

want to know how we can better take care of our customers and our community.”

STUDIO LU ELLE

“Having the opportunity to make women feel confident through the power of beautiful hair is empowering,” says hair stylist Raven

Precision Payment Systems serves the entire Southeast region. The local office is

Davis. With a longtime dream of owning a salon, Raven opened Studio

located at 1912 Clearview Pkwy, Ste 201, in Metairie, as well as a satellite office

Lu Elle in January 2018.

In her quiet and private suite in Metairie, Raven enjoys working one-on-one with her diverse clientele. “We offer a variety of amenities

in St. Augustine, FL. PrecisionPaymentSystems.com.

A C C O U N T I N G

that make you feel at home,” she says. “I love being able to connect with my clients. I can adapt to any personality which makes people feel more comfortable.”

As a Paul Mitchell 2014 Honors Graduate, Raven specializes in blonding, color corrections and a variety of hair extensions. For color clients, she aims to apply color that grows out naturally. A healthy hair enthusiast, Raven works with her clients to improve the integrity of their hair with a professional hair care regimen.

Raven offers a range of color services from highlights to balayage. Raven adds, “My hope is that each client leaves fully satisfied and returns for something more.”

When not empowering her clients, she says, “I love having a flexible schedule. I am able to dedicate myself to my business and still have time for my family!” As a mother, she is a large supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Jessica D. LeBlanc

Jessica LeBlanc, CPA/CFF, RENE/ePro owns her own CPA Firm called Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC in which she provides financial consulting and accounting services in the areas of business consulting, forensic accounting, litigation support and outsourced accounting. In addition, she is a Louisiana licensed real estate broker and owner of her own real estate brokerage firm called CPA Realty, LLC, which specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions and property management services.

Jessica LeBlanc (Cell # 504-812-7105 / Office # 504-812-8807 / 8820)

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Studio Lu Elle is located 3348 West Esplanade Ave., Ste. 105,

Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC (JessicaLeBlancCPA.com)

in Metairie. (504) 655-9868. studioluelle.org.

CPA Realty, LLC (CPArealtyLLC.com)

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C U S T O M

F L O O R I N G

David Rawson

LA CUSTOM FLOORING Owned and operated by David Rawson and his wife Tiffany, LA Custom Flooring prides itself on achieving your ideal flooring goals. David has been an expert in beautiful, custom flooring for almost 20 years, and built this company from the ground up.

He and his team specialize in the installation, sanding and refinishing of hardwood floors, as well as the installation and finishing of all types of tile and granite. With an honest approach, high level of service, and only the best materials, LA Custom Flooring strives to invoke customer satisfaction in every job.

LA Custom Flooring can be reached by calling (601) 919-6956. lacustomflooring.com.

IN Better Health

with Adam Diaz

by Leah Draffen

Adam Diaz with his family.

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WHEN ADAM DIAZ’S only working eye became red and light sensitive, he went to see an Ophthalmologist who referred him to a local retina specialist. He was sent home with steroid eyedrops and instructions to call back in two weeks. Yet, Adam felt his condition was more urgent.

Advocating for himself, he began looking elsewhere for a retina specialist. He says, “That’s when I found Dr. Kathy Ta at the Retina Associates of New Orleans! They were booked up but got me in immediately to be seen. They stayed late after hours to ensure I was properly diagnosed. After examination and discussion of my medical history, Dr. Ta was able to properly diagnose and aggressively treat me.

“She was kind and compassionate and took the time to listen to all of my concerns and explain what was happening and what they were going to do. If it wasn’t for her fast action and quick decisions, I would be permanently blind.”

When asked about Adam’s initial visit, Dr. Ta says: “The first time I met Mr. Diaz, he understandably was very fearful of losing his vision. He only had one seeing

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eye, as he had lost vision in his other eye at a young age due to a retinal detachment. Along with eye redness, photosensitivity, and seeing floaters, he explained to me that his peripheral vision had rapidly deteriorated over a matter of days. On examination, Mr. Diaz had severe inflammation in the posterior segment of his eye with peripheral retinal whitening, which alerted me to the possibility that this could be an underlying viral infection of the retina.

“I suspected Acute Retinal Necrosis (ARN), which is characterized by retinal whitening, typically beginning in the peripheral retina, and can rapidly become more and more confluent until it spreads towards the patient’s central vision, as in Mr. Diaz’s case. There is typically also inflammation of the retinal arterioles, which can lead to occlusion and further vision loss.”

Dr. Ta quickly leaped into action to help Adam’s condition. “Based on my clinical suspicion of ARN, I immediately started Mr. Diaz on oral antivirals while I waited on lab results to rule out other potential diagnoses. I also took a small sample of aqueous fluid, or fluid from the front of the eye, and sent this for viral polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to rapidly determine the causative virus. Shortly after, I treated him with an intravitreal antiviral, or an injection of antiviral medication into the eye, and started him on steroid eyedrops to alleviate the inflammation.

“Treatment of ARN traditionally involved hospitalizing patients with IV antivirals, but more recently, newer oral antiviral agents, along with intravitreal injections, have allowed retinal specialists to effectively manage this complex condition in an outpatient setting. Prompt initiation of antiviral treatment, both with oral antivirals and/or intravitreal antivirals, can halt progression of the retinitis, or retinal infection, within days to weeks. Another concern is that after resolution of the infection, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is a common potential complication. This occurs in about 75 percent of eyes with ARN and may develop weeks to months after initial presentation of the infection.

“In order to prevent vision loss from a

photo courtesy: ADAM DIAZ

Condition: Acute Retinal Necrosis Treatment: Antiviral Medication, Retinal Laser Photocoagulation, and Pneumatic Retinopexy

photo courtesy: RETINA ASSOCIATES OF NEW ORLEANS

detachment, I performed a preventative laser treatment to the entire periphery of Mr. Diaz’s retina. Despite the laser treatment, unfortunately about three months after he initially presented to me, he did develop a retinal detachment. I repaired his retinal detachment with an in-office procedure called a pneumatic retinopexy, where a gas bubble and laser are placed in the eye in order to reattach the retina. Fortunately, the procedure was successful, and Mr. Diaz was able to fully regain his vision.”

Adam’s results and progress exceeded Dr. Ta’s expectations and he was able to return to work and care for his family. Dr. Ta adds, “Mr. Diaz, along with so many of my other patients, are a constant reminder of how privileged I am to be able to help others stabilize their vision, improve the health of their eyes, and greatly improve their quality of life. This drives me to give the best possible care to my patients each and every day.”

Almost a year and a half later, Adam is still thankful for the outcome. “I can’t speak highly enough of Dr. Ta, Dr. Zak, Dr. Zhuk, and Dr. Cousins who were working together to help solve this difficult case. Dr. Ta saved my sight and helped me preserve my life as I know it,” says Adam. “I have lots of people who depend on me and she not only helped me but countless others who would been burdened if I were blinded. Thank you, Dr. Ta and the other physicians at Retina Associates of New Orleans!”

ABOUT DR. KATHY TA Board Certified in Ophthalmology and Vitreoretinal Surgery, Dr. Ta earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Cell and Molecular Biology from Tulane University, and medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Shreveport. She completed an internship in Internal Medicine at Ochsner Clinic Foundation; Ophthalmology residency at Louisiana State University Health and Sciences Center and Ochsner Medical Center, where she served as Chief Resident; and fellowship training in Vitreoretinal Surgery at The Foundation for Retinal Research in New Orleans. She is a member of The American Academy of Ophthalmology, The American College of Surgeons, and The American Society of Retina Specialists. She is also an active researcher, participating in numerous ongoing clinical trials in ophthalmology, focusing on diseases of the Retina, Macula and Vitreous.

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Role Model Status

Fourth Graders Share Who They Admire RECENTLY, FOURTH GRADE teacher Kayla Wilkinson began discussing role models with her Mary Queen of Peace students. She asked them to think of someone who was a role model to them and the characteristics that made them a good role model. Below are some of her students’ answers.

BROOKLYN BOYLE “A role model is someone you can look up to, and sets a good example for you in your life. My role model is my mom. My mom is a doctor, so she is very hardworking. She is always helpful when I need her help and is very caring to me. She is also a very faith filled person.

One of the reasons my mom is my role model is because she is very hardworking. My mom never gives up when something is hard. Also, she makes dinner for me and it is always delicious. And lastly, she is always ready to learn new things.

Another reason my mom is my role model is because she is very helpful. My mom always helps me study for my tests. For example, when I don’t get something, she will help me learn it better. Also, she always helps me on school projects when I need her help. At last, she is the most helpful person in the world!

The last reason my mom is my role model is because she is faith filled. My mom always goes to mass every week. She never misses mass, even on vacation. She also prays everyday to God. For example, she prays for our family and all the people in the world. And lastly, she teaches me to love God very much.

A role model is someone who you can look up to in your life. My role model, my mom, inspires me to be a better person. Through her faith, love, and actions I want to be just like her. I hope one day I will be a role model too.

MATTHEW SARVER “A role model is someone you can look up to, and sets a good example for you in your life. My Parran is my role model. My Parran is loving, helpful, and strong. Since he is so strong he inspires me to be stronger.

My Parran is a role model because he is loving. The 40

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first thing he does when I get to his house is, he gives me a really big hug.

Another reason why my Parran is a role model is because he is super strong.

He can lift me. He works out every day. I want to be stronger than him one day.

One more reason why he is a role model is because he is really helpful. He helps me reach the snacks in the cabinet. One more reason why he is super helpful is because he helps me scoop ice cream into a bowl.

Role models help inspire us to be better people. My Parran is the best person I have ever met. He has inspired me in many different ways. Someday I want to be like him.”

LILETTE FERRAND “A role model is someone you look up to. My role models are my parents.

My parents are amazing. I look up to them every day.

My dad is a lawyer. All day long I think about being a lawyer like my dad. My dad is a great Lawyer. He always works very hard at work.

My mom is a boss/ business owner of Inside New Orleans Magazine. I want to own my very own law firm. My mom also has a strong personality. I want to have a stronger personality like my mom so I can stand up to more people.

One day my business will be “Lilette Ferrand, Attorney at Law LLC.” I will be a personal injury lawyer and own my very own law firm. I will be in my mom’s magazine Inside New Orleans. I will also be on many billboards.

My parents are so important to me. My parents are always pushing me to be a better person. They are the best role models I can ever have. When I grow up I will be just like my parents.”

ERIN FRIEL “My role model is my big sister Mary. Mary is a very athletic sister, she is outstanding at soccer. She is a confident and brave girl and she always believes she can

do anything, and she is brave enough to do it. Mary is not only my sister but she is also my roommate. My sister is super loving and caring and lots of fun too! Mary is amazing and I love her so much! A role model is someone who inspires you and Mary is exactly that!

One of the reasons why Mary is my role model is because she is very brave, confident, and super athletic. Mary is good at almost every sport she has tried. She is an awesome soccer player and has won a ton of medals. My sister is a very brave and confident person who always does flips, and believes in herself that she can do them.

Another reason why Mary is my role model is because she is a very fun roommate. She always plays games with me at night and we have lots of fun. At night we always lay in bed and tell each other about our day and make each other laugh. I love that she is my roommate because she will always be there for me, she will always help me with stuff and she teaches me new things.

One more reason why my sister is my role model is because she is very loving and caring. She shows this by always being kind to anyone she meets. Mary always cares when someone is hurt or upset and will run to help them if they are. If we are playing soccer in the front yard with the neighbors, and if the teams are uneven then Mary will come outside and make the teams even.

Role models inspire us to be better people. Mary has changed my life in a million different ways. From being an awesome sister, to being loving and caring, to being an amazing athlete, Mary is one of the best people I know and I’m sure everyone agrees. I hope one day I will be an amazing role model just like her, to someone in my life!”

BRADY POST “My role model is my Dad. He inspires me to be a better person. He pushes me out of my comfort zone so I get better and better. He is kind and he helps me do my work better than before.

The reason he is my role model is because I want to do what he does.

I like how he’s not just a work work work and get money kind of guy. And that he actually takes time to be with me. He’s my coach for sports and stuff. Also, he drives me places when he doesn’t have to.

Another reason he is my role model is because he entertains me when I’m bored. He makes boring things fun. He always finds a way to make my normal routine better. He makes things I have to do less normal but fun.

I’ve lived with my role model for my whole life. So, I know a lot about him. The good things, the bad things and stuff like that. Even though he’s not the best role model in the world. I still want to do some things he does.

Our role models make us want to be better people. They do things we want to do. They act like how we want to act. I wonder if I’m a role model, and if I am, I’m proud to be one.”

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Flourishes

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1. Alabaster contemporary lamp with solid brass shade. Greige Home Interiors, Covington, 985-875-7576, greigehome.com. 2. The Good Doctor original oil on canvas, 24” x 36”. Gallery B. Fos, 444-2967, beckyfos.com. 3. Multi-colored Talavera planters in several shapes and sizes. For indoor or outdoor use, starting at $39. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 985-893-8008, outdoorlivingcenter.com. 4. Antique 4

heart pine encompasses this whole home, but the true showstopper is this stairwell. La Custom Flooring, 601-919-6956.

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5. Exterior Designs, New Orleans’ original courtyard designer, has been helping homeowners find solitude in creating outdoor living rooms that soothe the soul and rejuvenate the mind. Exterior Designs, Inc. by Beverly Katz, 866-0276, ExteriorDesignsBev.com. 6. Four Seasons Aiden Swivel Glider. Doerr Furniture, Covington/New Orleans, doerrfurniture.com. 7. A kitchen organized by NEAT Method, (985) 705-2014, neatmethod.com.

8. Estelle Colored Glass gray smoke decanter and rocks glass set. Hilltop Shoppe, 504-533-9670, hilltopshoppe.com. 9. State Street SS42 handrubbed copper lantern with new heavier scroll. Available in four sizes, gas or electric, starting at $552. Gulf Coast Lanterns, Covington, 800-910-3275.

photo: MARTIN VECCHIO PHOTOGRAPHY

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Flourishes 1

1. Robern lighted mirror with chamfer museum frame in matte gold. Southland Plumbing Supply, Metairie, 504-835-8411; Mandeville, 985-893-8883, southlandplumbingsupply. com. 2. French Quarter Lantern on Holland Post, $ 1,175. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, 522-9485, bevolo.com. 3. Santorini ice bucket, $125. Niche Modern Home, Mandeville, 985624-4045, nichemodernhome.com. 4. This 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home was designed to entertain with its own outdoor fireplace and kitchen. Call Daniel Munn for a showing, 504908-7572.

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INside Look

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1. Shimmering blue Turquoise necklace by German designer

2

Bernd Wolf, $499. 24k goldplated Sterling Silver, 18” (+3” drop). Symmetry Jewelers, 861-9925, symmetryjewelers. com. 2. Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology. It is specifically designed to clear out old collagen and elastin and help your body make more of its own collagen and elastin. T&G Dermatology, Metairie, 454-2997, terezakisgrieshaberdermatology.com. 3. Hydrafacial uses patented

technology combined with nourishing ingredients to create an instantly gratifying glow. Mention this listing and receive 20% off your hydracial treatment. New Orleans Aesthetics, 475-1000, neworleansaesthetics.com.

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INside Look

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2 1. Ladies Omega Constellation watch in stainless steel and 18K gold with mother-of-pearl dial and diamond bezel, $8,350. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, 8312602, boudreauxsjewelers.com. 2. Summer arrivals are here. SOSUSU Boutique, 309-5026, sosusuboutique.com.

3. Award winning dual functioning Obagi Medical Professional-C Microdermabrasion Polish + Mask exfoliates as well as infuses the skin with 30% L-absorb IV acid. Saintly Skin, 475-5510, saintlyskin.com.

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4. Sodalite beaded necklace with Elizabeth Coin and Sodalite pendant drop, $138. Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Design, 850-698-3183, JenniferPonson.com. 5. PCA Skin Intensive Brightening Treatment.

The ultimate pure retinol nighttime treatment for those with discoloration.

Aesthetic Surgical Associates, 3097061, aestheticsurgical.com. 6. Natural Beaded Rows (known as NBR) hand tied hair extensions. Heather at the Beauty Bar, Mandeville, 919-0095 or

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Instagram @heatherduhe_hairstylist.

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AS NEW ORLEANS BEGINS returning to normalcy, we may feel like tourists in our own city. The French Market is a perfect place to kick-off a beautiful weekend. One can sip and snack their way through the French Market enjoying traditional New Orleans fare as well as specialty items with local flair. There is also opportunity to shop local at boutique shops and art galleries, in addition to the spectacular finds in the Farmers and Flea Markets.

Live music happens daily at two locations within the French Market: Gazebo Café and Market Café. And July 3 welcomes the French Market’s 35th annual Creole Tomato Festival which celebrates the culinary, musical, and artistic bounty of Southeast Louisiana that is nurtured by the alluvial soils of the Mississippi River. This year’s hybrid festival includes virtual concerts and in-person food booths, kid’s activities, and Creole tomatoes for sale. Explore more at frenchmarket.org.

With a car ride east, you can find a hidden gem nestled along the shores of Destin, Florida, Henderson Park Inn provides the ultimate

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photo courtesy: HENDERSO N PARK INN

Living for the Weekend sanctuary for rest and relaxation. Comprised of 37-rooms, this inclusive, adults-only boutique hotel remains a favorite destination for anyone looking for a secluded escape. With all the charm of a New-England style inn and the modern luxury and excitement of Destin, guests arrive to the sounds of waves lapping on the shore and friendly faces eagerly waiting to help them start a vacation like none other.

As an inclusive hotel, guests dine on a made-to-order breakfast, relax on complimentary beach chairs on the sugar-white beach, enjoy picnic-style lunches and round-the-clock access to snacks, explore the area on bicycles provided by the inn, sip cocktails while watching the sunset on the back patio and more. For more information about Henderson Park Inn or to book your adults-only beach vacation, call (866) 398-4432 or visit hendersonparkinn.com.

Summer als Speci

Briquette

701 S Peters St. 302-7496 briquette-nola.com Caymus dinner on July 9, 7pm.

Broussard’s

3413 Veterans Blvd, Metairie 577-2235 atavo.la Daily Happy Hour, 2-6pm.

819 Conti St. 581-3866 broussards.com $45 3-course prix fixe supper menu $15 Bottomless Mimosas & Rosé at Brunch

Boulevard

Celebrity Limousine

A Tavola

5171 Citrus Blvd; 410-5171 4241 Veterans Blvd, Metairie; 8892301 boulevardbistro.com Wine & Dine Wednesdays, Martini Thursdays, and Monday-Friday happy hour from 3–6 pm.

888-5466 celebritylimoservice.com All children birthday parties 25% off through the summer.

New Orleans Aesthetics

3434 Prytania St. 475-1000 neworleansaesthetics.com Give dad the gift of hair! For the month of June, 20% off PRP Hair Restoration treatments. For June and July, enjoy 20% off laser hair removal treatments.

New Orleans Creole Cookery

510 Toulouse St. 524-9632 neworleanscreolecookery.com Oyster Happy Hours, 3-6pm.

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Christwood Retirement Community Celebrates its 25th Anniversary IN THE EARLY 1980S, Father Stephen Holzhalb, then rector of Christ Episcopal Church in Covington, conceived of and proposed the idea of Christwood to his vestry. With their enthusiastic support and assistance, a feasibility study was launched.

After establishing the need for a Northshore retirement community that would offer a vibrant, secure lifestyle to older adults, the vestry hired Christwood’s first executive director, Jack Lohman, and the Community opened its doors in May of 1996.

Today, under Father Steve’s direction as Executive Officer, and with the guidance of a 16-member volunteer Board of Directors, Christwood offers concierge living, resort-style amenities, convenient services and easy access to healthcare to more than 270 residents.

Nestled on a 117-acre wooded and beautifully landscaped campus in Covington, Christwood is a not-for-profit ‘Life Plan Community,’ also known as a continuing care retirement community, offering independent and assisted living, as well as cognitive memory, skilled

nursing and rehabilitative care.

The Community is now complemented by the adjacent Community Center at Christwood, a unique, multi-purpose fitness center that serves not only Christwood residents, but many other members of the Northshore 55+ community.

In addition to providing the latest in exercise equipment, the Community Center also houses a 25-yard heated indoor saltwater pool, an aerobics studio, a pickle ball court, day spa, game room, art studio, and the Forever Fit Kitchen.

Christwood’s management team is planning a year-long celebration of its 25th anniversary, including a number of events honoring employees, an anniversary Oak planting in May, a mass and reception at Christ Church on September 26, and a celebratory art exhibit in the Christwood Atrium Gallery in the fall.

To learn more, visit christwoodrc.com.

e r a C r Senio and t n e m e r Reti g Livin

Christwood Retirement Community

100 Christwood Blvd, Covington 985-898-0515 or 800-480-4361 christwoodrc.com Independent living, assisted living, cognitive memory care, rehabilitation, skilled nursing, companion services, Christwood at Home, and Christwood Dementia Home Services.

Culicchia Neurological

New Orleans, Jefferson and Northshore 504-340-6976 Culicchianeuro.com Founded in 1961, Culicchia Neurological Clinic provides complete Neuro-Care for the New Orleans and Gulf South Regions.

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Lambeth House

150 Broadway, New Orleans 504-865-1960 LambethHouse.com Lambeth House is New Orleans’ only continuing care retirement community with LifeCare, which guarantees access to on-site assisted living and nursing care, if ever needed, at stable monthly fees.

LCMC Health Urgent Care

Algiers, Gretna, Clearview, Lakeview, Covington, Marrero and Uptown LCMChealthurgentcare.com LCMC Health Urgent Care offers urgent care and occupational health services as an extension of the LCMC Health family. Standard services include on-site lab work, x-rays, physicals and immunizations.

Money Hill

100 Country Club Dr., Abita Springs 985-892-3300 moneyhill.com With over six thousand acres nestled among the high upland hills of St. Tammany Parish, only minutes from Downtown Covington and an hour from New Orleans, the members and residents of Money Hill enjoy an active lifestyle of relaxed sophistication that has easy access to community and cultural centers nearby.

St. Anthony’s Gardens

601 Holy Trinity Dr, Covington 985-605-5950 StAnthonysGardens.org A ministry of the Archdiocese of New Orleans specializing in independent living 55+ and older; assisted living; and memory care.

Thibodaux Regional Medical Center 602 N. Acadia Rd., Thibodaux 985-447-5500 thibodaux.com At Thibodaux Regional, you are not a number – you are someone who will be treated with respect, cared for with compassion, and treated kindly.

Westside Orthopaedic Clinic

Ralph Katz, MD 1301 Barataria Blvd., Marrero 504-347-0243 westsideortho.com Westside Orthopaedic Clinic is a full service orthopaedic clinic offering a wide array of orthopaedic care and services. Specializing in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (including microdiscectomy and lumbar fusions), kyphoplasty, and cervical disc surgery.

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by Mimi Goodyear Dossett

Live Life Well

UNEXPECTED EVENTS often change or accelerate trends in business and lifestyle. For us in Southeast Louisiana, Hurricane Katrina in 2005 followed by the world financial crisis and its corresponding real estate crash in 2008 were dramatic game changers. Add to that the stress of the COVID-19 pandemic year, and you have a lasting influence on the value of home…and the way we live, work and retire.

In 2008 and the several years that followed, a large group of middle and upper management lost their jobs, and millions of Americans lost their homes. The result was a generation of the later baby boomers who had to recreate careers and lives, start new businesses, and “downsize” expensive lifestyles. Interestingly, in the years prior to the crisis, those people would be aging into retirement now.

Now, many of us in our 50’s, 60’s and 70’s don’t plan to retire in the traditional sense. Instead, we have decided not to put off dreams and goals for that post-work life.

People started thinking, “Well, if I can’t retire anytime soon, I might as well live in a place I love!”

Today, flexibility and the ability to work from home rank right up there with health benefits and salary. We’ve all realized the importance of family and connectedness.

Living in a place where you have a great environment, amenities and the ability to enjoy your free time and your family is paramount.

Now, post COVID, not only is where you live an important factor, but people are finding that their homes need to be useful for a variety of purposes and functions

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that were not necessary before. Home gyms, home offices, guest quarters, outdoor kitchens and improved family entertaining spaces are some of the amenities that are becoming essential. Many are purchasing second homes that allow them to get away but still be in the comfort of a private residence. First and second homes are becoming gathering places for multigenerational families, and low interest rates are encouraging people, even those in their 30’s and 40’s, to take the plunge on a vacation property!

There are large migrations from states with high income and property taxes to states with more friendly policies for business owners and older Americans. Another migration trend that has been good for us in the South is people relocating from harsher climates to milder ones. With all this moving around, opportunities to build community and meet new people often revolve around activities, particularly sporting activities, for this new generation of “not ready to quit working or playing” individuals.

Golf, biking, tennis, pickle ball, hiking, and gym workouts are just a few of the ways seniors are spending their time. In addition to fishing and canoeing, it is now common to see kayaks and paddleboards out on the waterways. All these activities are more than just fun hobbies and a way to make friends, they are ways that older Americans are staying healthy and living life!

Enjoying free space and the outdoors is more appreciated than ever, and people have come to realize the value of their health as well!

As the pandemic winds down, it is exciting to see fun events and activities starting to resume. We are social creatures, and hopefully the parties and festivals and concerts and sporting events will come back quickly and better than before. We will all be ready to get back to “public” life, but COVID has accelerated trends that were already advancing. It’s great being a senior with the mobility to travel and see family, the flexibility to balance work and play, and the ability and opportunity to love where you live! COVID gave us a chance to evaluate the things that are important and to make the most of our time and opportunities. If you don’t feel you’re living your fullest life, consider moving, travelling or taking up a new active lifestyle hobby!

INside Peek Women IN Business Luncheon

photos: JEFF STROUT

Inside New Orleans’ Women IN Business honorees gathered for a luncheon at Broussard’s Restaurant. The women enjoyed networking, a Fidelity photo booth, fabulous door prizes, gorgeous decor by Sparkle and Swag, cotton candy by Fluff Gourmet Fairy Floss, and beautiful flowers by Beth’s Flowers. An informal fashion show was held by Saintly Skin, Elizabeth’s, Sorellas NOLA and Charli Boutique.

The successful event was made possible by Fidelity Bank, Broussard’s Restaurant, NewmanDailey Resort Properties, Inc. and Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center.

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Tiffany Moon, MD, at a Sip, Shop & Socialize event at

add outside dining to Gumbo Stop in Metairie. 3. The Delgado Dolphins Krewe of Vax attracted 131 individuals from Delgado Community College and surrounding neighborhoods to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations.

4. Margarita Bergen (seated) at her “A Path to Recovery and Normalcy Round Table Luncheon” at Galatoire’s.

photo: TODD TAYLOR

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photo: THOMAS GARZA PHOTOGRAPHY

Kathy Fielder Boutique. 2. Chef Ron Iafrate is excited to

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photo: RICK TRINGALI

1. Reagan Charleston Thomas, Kathy Fielder and

photo: MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY MELANIE LANGTEAU

INside Peek

1.-5. Ochsner Health and Delgado Community College have partnered to train the next generation of nurses and allied health professionals, forming the Ochsner Center for Nursing and Allied Health at Delgado Community College. Ochsner has committed $20 million to expand Delgado’s nursing and allied health education, including $10 million toward a new, state-of-the-art building to be constructed on Delgado’s City Park Campus. The new building will house the Delgado Charity School of Nursing and most of Delgado’s existing programs offered by the

photos: FRANK AYMAMI

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Division of Allied Health.

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Drinks with Anna

by Anna Tusa

Bringing the Heat to NOLA this Summer NOLA MARIA

2 oz Espolon Blanco ¼ tsp LA Pepper Exchange Red Habanero Puree 6 oz bloody Mary mix 1 oz fresh squeezed lime juice 1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice Splash of olive juice Pinch of salt Pinch of pepper

In a Collins glass filled with ice combine all ingredients and tumble into until mixed. Garnish with fresh lime, lemon, spicy peppers, okra, and olives.

Tip: Swap the tequila for your favorite vodka for a NOLA Mary.

SPICY PINEAPPLE MARGARITA

2oz Espolon Blanco Tequila ½ oz Triple Sec ½ oz agave syrup ¼ tsp LA Pepper Exchange Green Jalapeno Puree 4 oz fresh squeezed lime juice 1 oz crushed pineapple Salt for rim Lime wedge and pineapple wedge for garnish

Salt the rim of a rocks glass, muddle crushed pineapple in the glass, fill with ice. In a shaker tin filled with ice combine all other ingredients, 60

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photos: ANNA TUSA

I WAS RECENTLY introduced to Louisiana Pepper Exchange Pepper Purees, and I thought, “How would these pair with handcrafted cocktails?”

I like a cocktail with a little heat, and pepper is good for the metabolism, right? These refreshening cocktails are perfect on a hot NOLA summer day.

Here are some of my favorite creations, from my recent Cinco de Bayou celebration:

shake well, and strain into the rocks glass. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and lime wedge.

2 1 1 1 4

BLOOD ORANGE TEQUILA SUNRISE

oz Espolon Tequila oz freshly squeezed lime juice oz agave tsp LA Pepper Exchange Orange Habanero Puree oz fresh blood orange juice

Fill a Collins glass with ice, pour all ingredients over the ice, and tumble. Garnish with an orange slice.

BAYOU PALOMA

2 oz Espolon Reposado ¼ tsp LA Pepper Exchange Orange Habanero Puree 2 oz Fresh squeezed lime juice 2 oz Ruby Red grapefruit juice ¼ oz honey Top with Cava

Sugar the rim of a Coupe glass. In a shaker tin filled with ice, combine all ingredients and shake well. Strain into the coupe glass, and top with Cava or your favorite bubbly.

CALIENTE OLD FASHION

2 oz Espolon Anejo Tequila 1 oz agave 1 oz house made simple syrup using LA Pepper Exchange Jalapeno Puree 3 dashes Bittermens Xocolatl Bitters Orange slice Bordeaux cherry

In a rocks glass muddle the orange and cherry, add ice then add all the other ingredients and tumble until mixed.

Tip: Louisiana Pepper Exchange Purees are extremely concentrated, and a little goes a long way. I suggest starting with a ¼ teaspoon of the puree for a drink. If you like it hotter, you can certainly add more. LA Pepper Exchange is a local company, and you can purchase the purees in most supermarkets.

I hope you enjoy these delicious cocktails all summer long.

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IN the Kitchen

FRESH BASIL MAYONNAISE (Makes About 2 Cups)

by Lorin Gaudin

2 extra-large egg yolks, at room temperature 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 ½ teaspoons tablespoon Dijon mustard ½ cup chopped fresh basil leaves, lightly packed ½ teaspoon minced garlic or onion 1 teaspoon Redmond Real Salt 1 ½ cups extra light olive oil, at room temperature

Place the egg yolks, mustard, basil, minced garlic (or onion), and salt, in a food processor fitted with the steel blade. Process for about 20 seconds, until smooth. With the processor running, slowly pour in the oil through the tube to make a thick emulsion. Place emulsion in a jar and stir in the lemon juice. Taste for seasonings and adjust as needed. Mayonnaise is a condiment and it should be well seasoned. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use; it will keep for up to a week. *Note: To make plain mayonnaise, simply omit the basil.

EVERY YEAR AT THIS TIME, New Orleans food fanatics excitedly await the appearance of “Creole” tomatoes at markets and stores. Yes, we could get wrapped up in the chatter about what is a “Creole” tomato: Is it a special variety?

Must a “creole tomato,” be vine-ripened and grown in alluvial (mineral rich river deposit) soil? And of course, the claim that only tomatoes grown in St. Bernard and Plaquemines Parishes are truly “Creole” tomatoes. The short answers are “No”; “I think so”; and “Sure, if you insist.” Frankly, I eat tomatoes year ‘round, though locally grown tomatoes seem to taste better in season - the early summer months. Deny it if you will, but there is a special flavor to St. Bernard and Plaquemines Parish-grown “Creole” tomatoes: warm, sweet, and slightly acidic - a comforting, homey scent and taste reminiscent of the way our heavy, humid summer airs smells.

Any local worth their salt has eaten a “Creole” tomato sandwich over the 62

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sink. It’s practically a rite of passage.

My mother-in-law taught me to eat tomato sandwiches built on squishy white Bunny Bread, slathered with Blue Plate mayonnaise, sprinkled with salt and a lot of black pepper. I still eat them just that way.

However, a recently re-emerging trend for Japanese convenience store sandwiches called “sandoitchi” or “sando,” had me reimagining and glamming-up the basic tomato sandwich.

Using thick cut “Texas Toast” bread slices (no, I did not make my own “shokupan,” the slightly sweet Japanese white loaf bread) from the grocery store, ripe “Creole” tomatoes, fresh basil leaves and homemade mayonnaise (with love and respect to beloved commercial mayos, but I hard pass on soybean oil), I put together a Creole Tomato and Basil “sando.” Yes, my sandos have the crusts removed and the bread is not toasted, though toasted bread with intact crust, is also perfectly lovely and trendy.

photos: LORIN GAUDIN

Fresh Basil Mayonnaise for “Creole” Tomato Season

Haute Plates

A Tavola

3413 VETERANS BLVD.

METAIRIE 504-577-2235 ATAVO.LA

Modern Italian cuisine in a lively, family-friendly setting. Featuring a bright, spacious dining room, patio and bar offering Salute! Wednesdays, Vino Thursdays, and happy hour every day from 2 – 6pm. Join us for Italian favorites, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, paninis, salads and more!

Annunciation

1016 ANNUNCIATION ST.

NEW ORLEANS 504-568-0245

ANNUNCIATIONRESTAURANT.COM Annunciation Restaurant, located in New Orleans’ bustling Warehouse District, is walking distance to the New Orleans Convention Center and WWII museum. Specializing in Southern and Creole cuisine, Annunciation is the perfect setting for an intimate evening out or a corporate dinner.

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Haute Plates

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

Bill Laderer Catering

Boulevard American Bistro

701 SOUTH PETERS ST.

UNCLEBILLSCATERING@GMAIL.COM

NEW ORLEANS 504-410-5171

504-302-7496

504-296-2452

Uncle Bill’s Boudin King Cake topped with cracklins. Authentic Cajun Boudin stuffed inside this pastry topped with cracklins baked to perfection Drizzled with Steens syrup.

5171 CITRUS BLVD.

NEW ORLEANS

BOULEVARDBISTRO.COM

BRIQUETTE-NOLA.COM

Classic American cuisine with locations in Metairie and Elmwood.

Enjoy delicious dishes, exceptional service, and outdoor dining. The bar hosts Wine & Dine Wednesdays, Martini Thursdays, and a happy hour that runs Monday – Friday from 3 – 6pm.

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Briquette

Award-winning contemporary

Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard 819 RUE CONTI

NEW ORLEANS 504.581.3866 BROUSSARDS.COM Come celebrate Broussard’s 101

coastal cuisine featuring Gulf

years of service with Chef Jimi Setchim’s $45

seafood and fish, beef, lamb, chicken,

3-course prix fixe menu. Enjoy the ambiance

Maine Lobster and unique chef

of outdoor dining in the largest courtyard in

specials daily. Lunch, Dinner, Happy

the French Quarter. Join us for our monthly

Hour, Private Parties. Make your

Century Dinner series featuring craft cocktails

reservations on OpenTable.

from each decade we’ve been in service.

Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop

2309 N. CAUSEWAY BLVD. METAIRIE

504-835-2022

GUMBOSTOP.COM Chef Ron’s seafood platter is like no other. Louisiana Shrimp, Oysters and Catfish are golden fried and nestled above crispy potato fries and a lagniappe of fried crab balls.

Everyday Keto To Go METAIRIE, LA

504-957-9033

EVERYDAYKETOTOGO.COM Seven days of breakfast so no thinking, no hassle. Comes with whipped honey butter (no actual honey), strawberry jam and whipped cream cheese.

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.

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.

Last Bite

Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop

NESTLED AT THE GATEWAY to New Orleans, Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop is a welcoming place to indulge in the flavors of old New Orleans. Since opening in 2012, Owner and Chef Ron Iafrate has allowed the relaxed restaurant’s décor to develop by customers leaving their mark. He says, “It started with the first dollar that we hung on the wall. Each dollar now represents someone or a group of people celebrating, or on their next excursion to New Orleans.”

Customers return often for the boudin balls or crab cakes served with spicy mayonnaise as well as the barbeque shrimp folded into a quesadilla. Chef Ron’s menu has grown over the years to include new savory dishes and customer requests. He says, “Someone once asked me, ‘Could you pack anymore flavors in there?’ I said, ‘Well, yeah.’ So I brought him the fried catfish in the gumbo and the stuffed gumbo was born.

Since then, we’ve been known for our fried 66

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seafood toppings, like our Yumbo Mumbo Gumbo and Freckled Gumbo.” Other gumbo options include the Classic Seafood Gumbo, Gumbo Monceaux with a poached egg and potato salad topping, and the Ultimate

Gumbo complete with Louisiana fried catfish and oysters.

Chef Ron also makes his own hot sausage in house, serving it grilled cheese-style for a special. “Our customers demanded it, and it made its way to the menu.” Specials change daily at Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop from Louisiana Shrimp Creole over crab ravioli to a grilled French cut pork chop topped with barbeque shrimp. Yet, the delectable dessert options stay the same.

“It’s our bread pudding that will bring you some delight with fruited undertones and whiskey caramel sauce,” Chef Ron adds.

“We are an unpretentious, small fullservice restaurant that celebrates diversity.

It’s a great place to come and get fresh ingredients cooked to order.”

Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop is located Metairie’s Galleria at 2309 N. Causeway Blvd.

504-835-2022. gumbostop.com.

photos: MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY MELANIE LANGTEAU

by Leah Draffen