On the Culinary Trail

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.”

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

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.

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.

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

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

Lead Blocker Lead Blocker

Entrepreneur and Former Saints Player Zach Strief

WHEN ZACH STRIEF RETIRED from the New Orleans Saints in of the New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood Company, to take 2018, after a stellar career at right tackle, he was part of a statistic- the reins as managing partner. The result was a wildly successful setting offensive line. He had seen it all. He was drafted in 2006 brewery and restaurant which appealed to the discerning hops and out of Northwestern, the same year the team returned to New barley palates of New Orleanians everywhere. Orleans’ rebuilt Superdome after Hurricane Katrina, and the same But, how does that John Lennon song go, “Life is what year that Sean Payton came on as head coach. That team would go happens to you while you’re busy making other plans”? With on to win the Super Bowl after the 2009 NFL season, making Strief consummate TV and radio broadcaster Jim Henderson set to retire, part of the most successful era in franchise history. including stepping down from his post as the Voice of the Saints

Leaving the NFL was bittersweet, but a 2017 knee injury announcer on WWL Radio, a vacuum was about to occur in the cinched his departure. And, once knowing that Ryan Ramczyk, broadcast booth. One which the radio giant was eager to fill. A bevy a first-round draft pick who’d taken Strief’s place while he was of New Orleans broadcasters applied for the job, but it ultimately injured, was more than capable of defending Drew Brees from went to recently retired Zach Strief, the man who had previously unwanted hits, it made his exit more palatable. And, after all, his said he would never become a broadcaster. His former teammate coach Sean Payton had always emphasized that NFL careers are Deuce McAllister had already been in the booth with Henderson for short, and that no one begins his life’s work until after he’s finished a couple of seasons and warned Strief that broadcasting wasn’t as playing professional football. So, for Strief, at 34, now what? easy as it looked, no matter how well you knew the game.

“Leaving the Saints, there were “He showed a lot of candor in that two things I said I would never do,” moment,” explains Strief. “He pointed remembers Strief. “Although both out that while he was green, he had of these professions made the most Henderson to show him the ropes, but sense as a logical transition from that I would have him, and as he duly professional sports, I swore I would pointed out, he was still trying to figure never get into broadcasting, nor out what he was doing.” would I become a coach.” Undeterred, Strief marched

Ah, famous last words. Strief forward in his new role as play-bylaughs about it now, but at the time, play analyst. Before Henderson the allure of business was calling, walked out the door, he showed and he was seriously debating about Strief some of the important going back to school to get his MBA. mechanics of the job, but Zach However, a conversation he had on didn’t have much time to rehearse. a boat propelled him in a slightly It’s important to note here that different direction. former NFL players, like Tony

“I was on vacation with my wife, Romo who now works for CBS, were when my father-in-law, attorney groomed long before they donned Tom Discon, mentioned that he headsets and a microphone. In fact, and his best friend Ricky Thomas, owner of Blue Runner Foods, had “I played my whole career Strief’s former teammate Drew Brees has had the luxury of NBC’s been talking about opening a craft in New Orleans, my wife is “boot camp”, before he will ever brewery for the past five to six years,” recounts Strief. “I thought to myself from New Orleans, and there utter a word as a studio analyst for “Football Night in America.” But, it I didn’t know much about running was a very strong pull to was a total stranger who empathized a brewery/restaurant, and being in with Strief’s plight as a neophyte business with family was something re-invest in my community.” that would change the trajectory of my own father had always warned me the newbie’s broadcast career. against. However, in speaking to my dad about this proposition, his “Gerry Sandusky, the voice of the Baltimore Ravens, reached assessment was that I could either go back to school for my MBA, out to me blindly,” recounts Strief. “He told me that when he or get one on the fly, by learning from some really accomplished first got into broadcasting, no one gave him any help, and he business people who would guide me and teach me.” didn’t want me to go through the same thing. He’d read in

And so, The Port Orleans Brewing Company was born on various publications the concern out there about players like Tchoupitoulas Street, smack in the middle of what was once known me going directly from the field to the broadcast booth, so his as the Storyville District along the Mississippi river. Once upon a empathy and his help was beyond fantastic. He was the single time it was notable for its red light district, made famous in the biggest influence, putting me squarely in the right direction. He film “Pretty Baby” with Brooke Shields. But, it was also a center of has remained a good friend.” commerce with a slew of very profitable businesses. The area was A quick study, Strief slid into his new role with grace and often credited as the birthplace of jazz, back when Jelly Roll Morton professionalism. Being in broadcasting, as he noted, kept him was on the music scene there, so it’s always been a center of activity. engaged with the Saints organization, and around the teams he had

Meanwhile, as other investors entered the Port Orleans spent so much time with. He was always more than a media type, picture, with Charlie Barnett, Mike Tilly and Dean Lacey coming strolling into locker rooms whenever he wanted, as he’d been there on board, Zach invited his longtime friend Don Noel, former COO and done that. But, somehow, it didn’t feel like enough. >>

“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

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 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.

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).

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 goals through extensive planning, saving, investing, and risk management. At the firm’s inception, it had $12M assets under management and now it has over $250M assets under management. “We feel our new name and look more clearly illustrates how our firm has evolved over the last decade and supports our growing ambition in our industry,” says Danica. “Though our name has changed, our objective for our clients is still very clear. We bring financial confidence to our clients’ lives, so they can focus on the things that matter most.” Tray states, “We believe the name change truly sets the tone for the future of the firm. It signifies our renewed commitment to the New Orleans metropolitan area and our expertise in driving the innovations needed to better shape the financial future of our clients.” Whether you’re saving for retirement or building your business, you’ll receive one-on-one guidance and planning from the experienced team. The Ansardi Group offers several personal services, including: Comprehensive Financial Planning, Retirement Strategies, Investment Management, Estate Planning, 529 Plans & Educational IRAs, Risk Management, Wealth Protection, Long-term Care Needs, Income Replacement, and Health & Disability. For the self-employed or business owners, Employee Benefits, Retirement Planning, and Executive Compensation Plans are available. “We want people to know that our mission, values, and vision are clear from the very beginning. Those three things are the very essence of each conversation and action we have with clients,” adds Danica. “We understand people have options, but it’s the elevated experience we provide and our purpose-driven focus that brings clients to us. We enter into a partnership with you and build a plan for you with the expectation that it will be a long-term, mutually rewarding relationship.” While no financial advisor can guarantee success and past performance is not a guarantee of future results, The Ansardi Group bases their recommendations on sound financial principles with your goals in mind. “People often feel it’s either too late or too early to start financial planning which is simply not the case,” Danica says. “Today is always a good day to start planning for your future.” With more than 30 years of experience, Danica is licensed in Life/Health, Property/Casualty, and securities licensed in Series 6, 7, 34 and 63. She also holds both the Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant designation from the American College and is certified as an Accredited Investor Fiduciary. Additionally, she has an MBA from Loyola University. Danica’s area of focus is financial planning for individuals and businesses. She currently is a member of The Rotary Club of Belle Chasse, Society of Financial Service Professionals - New Orleans Chapter, Republican Women of Louisiana, Plaquemines Parish Fair & Orange Festival and Plaquemines Association of Business & Industry. She serves on the board of the Westbank Business & Industry Association and is the secretary/treasurer of the West Jefferson Hospital Foundation.

Danica Ansardi, CLU, ChFC, MBA, AIF®

THE ANSARDI GROUP

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 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 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 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).

Drs. Elizabeth B. Grieshaber and Rachael Delahoussaye-Shields

T&G DERMATOLOGY

Serving the greater New Orleans area, T&G Dermatology is a premier medical and cosmetic dermatology clinic, providing patients with the most up-to-date and comprehensive dermatologic care. Drs. Elizabeth B. Grieshaber and Rachael Delahoussaye-Shields achieve this by offering comprehensive treatments for general dermatology issues such as skin cancer, acne, eczema, rosacea, as well as cosmetic dermatology. “Our overall mission is to treat the whole person, helping them look good and feel good from the inside out,” says Dr. Grieshaber. “We like our patients to be educated and proactive in keeping their skin healthy, and that comes with them knowing that their skin concerns are fully addressed and well cared for by our team. No matter the skin type or skin issues, we want our patients to achieve their best skin and exude confidence within it.” T&G recently launched an acne treatment initiative, “Forget the Filter: Let’s Get Everything Clear.” The focus of this initiative is to help patients to not be fooled by Instagram time lapse pictures, filters, or too good to be true miracle products with unbelievable before and after pictures on social media. Severe acne and scarring is not cured by miracle online products, and certainly does not go away with fancy filters. Drs. Grieshaber and Delahoussaye-Shields create customized treatment plans that are personalized to each acne patient. “We are willing to help patients every step of the way when treating their skin conditions, relieving as many symptoms as possible,” Dr. Delahoussaye-Shields says. “We aim to help patients feel comfortable in their own skin by providing excellent patient care, with a personal touch, so that they feel confident and happy with what they see in the mirror.” Dr. Elizabeth Grieshaber is a native of the New Orleans area and a board-certified dermatologist. She attended LSU School of Medicine and completed her residency at LSU. She practiced dermatology at the Cleveland Clinic prior to the establishment of T&G Dermatology. She is an associate faculty member at LSU and enjoys teaching the residents on the days she is not at the clinic. A New Orleans native and board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Rachael Delahoussaye-Shields earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and graduated from LSU School of Medicine, also completing her residency in Dermatology at LSU. After residency, she practiced dermatology in Wisconsin, but is glad to be back serving the dermatologic needs of New Orleans. “We want our patients to really look for guidance and understanding of issues that they feel are overwhelming to them. We hope to provide an affirmation that they are receiving the best treatments and using great products, and that T&G Dermatology is a place for them to go for any skincare needs and questions that they may have,” Dr. Grieshaber says. “We want to provide the sense of security to our patients and want them to know they are in good hands.”

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, Vintage has three locations including a new Uptown location. “I feel a sense of accomplishment. We are very fortunate to have a great clientele and very committed employees,” Ann says. “My employees are long term. The majority have been with me for 15 to 20 years. “We have persevered through hurricanes, pandemics and everything in between.” As managing attorney, Ann has nearly 30 years of experience in the title industry, having managed the closings for over 10,000 residential and 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 admitted to practice in all Louisiana state courts. The new Uptown location welcomes Ann’s son, Justin, as the main closing attorney. Ann says, “I am very excited about bringing Vintage Title to Uptown. I live in the area and both of my sons went to Jesuit. Justin grew up hearing about real estate law and title work. I think it is in his DNA so I’m thrilled to have him join Vintage Title.” Justin says, “I am happy to be back home in New Orleans, close to friends and family. I’m excited to work with agents, lenders and clients in the New Orleans area, some of whom I know from growing up here. After working in a variety of legal 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 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.”

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.”

Beary Cherry Tree is located at 3117 Lake Villa in Metairie. (504) 455-1950. bearycherrytree.com.

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. 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.

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. “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.”

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.

Heather Duhe

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!”

Hair by Heather

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.”

Megan Naccari

SAINTLY SKIN

With an eye for professional beauty and extensive aesthetic knowledge, Saintly Skin owner and esthetician Megan Naccari loves making her clients look and feel their best. “I pride myself on being polite and professional while providing my clients with a friend to talk to, a shoulder to lean on, and the guarantee that after they leave, they will feel more beautiful than when they came in,” Megan says. A graduate of Ridgewood Preparatory School, Megan gained her aesthetics license from John Jay Beauty College in Kenner. In 2016, the opportunity presented itself to purchase the assets of the company she was working for. Megan took the leap and four years later, Saintly Skin has blossomed from spa-like offerings to a full array of medspa services. She and her team of two Nurse Practitioners, a Lead Esthetician and a Medical Director offer dermal fillers, Botox, laser hair removal, microneedling and more to a diverse clientele. As a New Orleans native, Megan naturally loves relating to anyone who comes in Saintly Skin’s doors. She says, “My favorite part of this business is working with our clients and seeing their progression.” Progression can easily be seen with one of Saintly Skin’s monthly memberships. With different levels, there’s a plan to suit everyone’s needs. To ensure the best services, the entire team at Saintly Skin makes certain to continue their education, which furthers the business’ mission: “To deliver achievable cosmetic results through professional services. We aim to educate our clients through our own training and experiences. Where beautiful skin is within everyone’s grasp.” Megan adds: “At Saintly Skin, we believe that through continued education and personal dedication to our profession we can offer our best to our clients. Each of our staff members reflects that in their own way and our different backgrounds bring something unique to our medspa. It is why our atmosphere is warm, welcoming and never intimidating.”

Raven Davis

STUDIO LU ELLE

“Having the opportunity to make women feel confident through the power of beautiful hair is empowering,” says hair stylist Raven Davis. With a longtime dream of owning a salon, Raven opened Studio 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 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.

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

Precision Payment Systems serves the entire Southeast region. The local office is located at 1912 Clearview Pkwy, Ste 201, in Metairie, as well as a satellite office in St. Augustine, FL. PrecisionPaymentSystems.com.

ACCOUNTING

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

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.