June-July 2023 Issue of Inside New Orleans

Publisher Jonée Daigle-Ferrand

Associate Editors Kelly Hightower Greta Honsberger

Art Director Brad Growden

Senior Account Executive Genevieve Daigle-Buring

Account Executives Sarah Daigle

Stacey Lala Emily Schneider

Renee Simon Summer Tallant Gina Vick

Accounts Payable Summer Tallant

Marketing Assistant Renee Simon

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On the cover

page 20

The physicians at The Skin Surgery Centre focus on providing highquality care with a personalized touch for the treatment of skin cancer and other tumors of the skin and nails.

Dr. Keith LeBlanc, Jr. founded The Skin Surgery Centre after completing his residency in dermatology and accredited fellowship with the aim to curate a personal, attentive experience for each and every patient. Dr. Elizabeth Bucher and Dr. Corey Rougelot are now co-owners of the practice with Dr. LeBlanc, and the two are joined by Dr. Vanessa Voss; all four are board-certified dermatologists and completed accredited fellowships in Mohs micrographic surgery. Mohs surgery is the gold standard for the removal of skin cancers on the head and neck and certain types of skin cancer on other sites, such as if the cancer is recurrent, highly aggressive, or greater than 2cm in diameter. The Mohs procedure allows for minimal removal of the skin by eliminating small areas incrementally until the site is cleared of cancerous cells. Mohs fellowship training includes advanced reconstruction techniques to achieve an excellent cosmetic result that maintains form and function. The Skin Surgery Centre’s operating rooms are equipped with televisions and speaker systems so that patients can relax with music or entertainment.

The most important factor to consider when seeking a skin surgeon is to find a board-certified dermatologist. Dermatologists have extensive, rigorous training in evaluating and treating skin cancers. If you are recommended

to have Mohs micrographic surgery, look for a surgeon who completed an American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) fellowship and is board-certified in Mohs micrographic surgery. This represents the highest level of training and expertise possible for a Mohs surgeon and ensures you will receive the best treatment for your skin cancer.

Drs. LeBlanc, Bucher, and Rougelot each attended medical school at the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. Dr. LeBlanc completed his dermatology residency at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta. Dr. Bucher completed her dermatology residency and fellowship at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. Dr. Rougelot completed his dermatology residency at Tulane University. Dr. LeBlanc and Dr. Rougelot both completed their Mohs surgery fellowships at Dermatology Associates in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Voss completed medical school at St. Louis University School of Medicine, dermatology residency at Stonybrook University, and Mohs fellowship at the University of Missouri.

All of the physicians at The Skin Surgery Centre are members of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. They are also members of the Louisiana Dermatological Society, where Dr. Bucher and Dr. Rougelot have held leadership positions, as well as the Louisiana State Medical Society.

The Skin Surgery Centre has three convenient locations in Metairie, Mandeville, and Biloxi. 504-644-4226. theskinsurgerycentre.com.

Dr. Keith LeBlanc, Jr., Dr. Elizabeth Bucher, Dr. Corey Rougelot, Dr. Vanessa Voss

THE SKIN SURGERY CENTRE

Jonée Daigle-Ferrand

I am pleased to present my staff as the Leaders in Publishing. Each issue they work hard to bring our readers the best local advertisers and connecting them with business owners.

We recently honored 55 local Women IN Business at a successful and beautiful luncheon at Briquette Restaurant where each woman spoke and told her story.

We are excited to honor an amazing group of business leaders in their exclusive fields at the Fire House Loft on Thursday, June 22nd, 6-8pm. In this issue you will find cover artist Billy Solitario who has the coolest landscape and still life artwork.

I am pleased to announce Inside New Orleans’ newest Editor, Greta Honsberger and wanted to thank Kelly Hightower as an interim Editor while Greta wrapped up her teaching career.

Summer is my favorite time of the year, and we just installed a pool. I love having my daughter, Lilette, home for a few months, sleeping a little later, moving a little slower, having pool fun, and of course, going on family vacations.

Enjoy your summer!!

Local Jeweler Named to 20 Under 40 in Jewelry Retail

Jewelers of America names New Orleans-based jeweler Brandon Boudreaux of Boudreaux’s Jewelers to the 20 Under 40 List

JEWELERS OF AMERICA (JA), the national trade association for businesses serving the fine jewelry marketplace, has named Brandon Boudreaux as one of the recipients of the 20 Under 40 in Jewelry Retail list. Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40, which was launched in 2022, is a recognition program that celebrates young professionals who exemplify leadership skills and a commitment to elevating jewelry retail for tomorrow’s jewelry consumers.

A panel of industry judges reviewed nominees from JA Retail Members across the country and had the difficult task of narrowing the applications down to the 20 individuals who best embody an ability to lead, innovate, and improve a jewelry store's success while adhering to professional ethics. Brandon Boudreaux was selected as one of the recipients of this prestigious award.

“Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 in Jewelry Retail list was designed to recognize young and talented individuals in all facets of the retail jewelry industry. Brandon Boudreaux possesses all the qualities and leadership skills that will help to pave the way for a brighter future and the next generation of jewelry industry professionals,” says Jewelers of America President & CEO David Bonaparte.

Brandon joined Boudreaux’s Jewelers as the long-time local jeweler’s fourth generation in 2013 after attending Tulane University and was recently named the company’s Chief Operating Officer.  Boudreaux’s Jewelers operates three retail stores in Louisiana in Metairie, Mandeville, and Baton Rouge.

Boudreaux’s Jewelers is a member of Jewelers of America, the national association for fine jewelry businesses with the most reputable jewelers in the United States, who are backed by a commitment to Jewelers of America’s Code of Professional Practices.

For more information about Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 List, visit jewelers.org/ja/events-news/20-under-40

“Show What I Know”

by Kelly Hightower Cover Artist Billy Solitario

AS I WRITE ABOUT the landscapes Billy Solitario is famous for, I am struck by an irony similar to what must have been felt by the composer of Nat King Cole’s famous “Christmas Song’’ which is better known by its first line, “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.” Mel Torme wrote the lyrics on a particularly hot July day in Toluca Lake, California. Conversely, I’m peering deep into Billy’s ultra-detailed paintings of the summer skies of Horn Island, but I’m physically located under the New Mexico sky during a blizzard in late April.

Billy Solitario is a prolific artist whose paintings are represented in galleries throughout the Southeast. Billy started having difficulty reading and spelling as a child in third grade due to dyslexia, but his drawings were something he could be proud of. The way a dyslexic mind is wired often lends itself to creativity and advanced spatial awareness. Drawing turned into an obsession because Billy recognized that creating art was something he could control from

beginning to end.

Growing up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Billy was puttering through the water in a Jon boat from a young age. Located seven miles offshore, Horn Island remains his favorite destination. Part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Horn Island is several miles long but less than a mile wide of undeveloped coastline. Billy paints many of his landscapes here, focusing on the clouds and storms in the summertime. Through his art, Billy shows people this part of the country that is dear to him.

Billy reveals what he sees in nature, and humbly admits that he doesn’t need to improve on it. He makes it sound so easy and effortless, yet I know it’s not because I am someone who can barely draw a stick figure. I am enthralled by the fact that Billy’s landscapes are so realistic they appear to be photographs at first glance. That is one of the reasons he says he is trying to loosen his style a bit because, when viewed on the computer, brush strokes are lost.

In winter, he focuses on still-life oil paintings. According to Billy, “ I get hyperexcited, so I’m a very fast painter. That’s why I have such a large body of work.” Although he says he tries not to repeat his subjects, Billy is apologetic when it comes to his favorite theme- the blue crab. “Crabs are just so glorious.” He marvels at the intricate details and striking colors and does not tire of portraying these crustaceans. Fascinated by the magical properties of Mother-of-Pearl in an oyster shell, Billy views the natural

with a little brush for very small detail work. With each step, Billy’s brushes get smaller. He starts with a one -or two-inch brush at the beginning and works down to a small round sable brush at the end.

What’s next for Billy Solitario? Billy intends to explore some new still life subjects. He lined up an order of fiddler crabs and has already completed one painting. He really wants to paint an alligator. That is his obsession right now. With summer approaching, Billy will be getting out into

nature, camping, exploring, and creating new work based on those activities.

Billy Solitario Fine Art Gallery on Magazine Street reflects the season. If Billy has just spent time on Horn Island, that is what is hanging on the walls of the studio. Naturally, carnival paintings line the walls during Mardi Gras. If it has been particularly cold and rainy, still life studies pop up in the gallery. Billy’s work is constantly changing. That’s what makes stopping by the studio so much fun!

world with an enduring sense of wonder. As Billy explains, “I want the image to inform you fully without doing too much.”

This fine detail that Billy employs is a result of years of intense study to learn the craft of oil painting under the direction of Auseklis Ozols while attending the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts. Billy also completed an MFA at Tulane University. Over the course of his career, Billy has developed a system that works for him. Typically, he has three works in progress at various points in the process. First, he draws to design the idea he envisions. Secondly, he does large blocking of color and value to get the general sense of the entire canvas. After that, Billy begins to notice smaller areas of value changes and color shifts. The final step is highlighting

INSIDE

Restaurant Week New Orleans

June

1-30 A Taste of Covington: Food, Wine, Music, and Art Festival. 12th annual event revolves around Covington’s restaurants and arts culture; Tuesdays through Fridays with special weekend events; all-inclusive 4 to 5 course gourmet meal with wine pairing; 504439-2543, aTasteofCovington.com

1-4 Bogalusa Balloon Festival. Hot air balloons flown by pilots from across the

region; live music, food and craft vendors, games, and carnival rides. $5 admission for single day; $7 for both Saturday and Sunday; free on Thursday; 985-750-3905, bogballoonfestival@gmail.com

1-4 To Kill a Mockingbird Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal Street, 504-525-1052 neworleans.broadway.com

1-11/5 “Yet She is Advancing: New Orleans Women and the Right to

Vote, 1878-1970.” Exhibit at the Historic New Orleans Collection; sponsored by WDSU-TV in collaboration with Tate, Etienne & Prevost Interpretive Center and the League of Women Voters New Orleans; free admission, advanced reservations recommended, hnoc.org

1 Johnette Downing’s Family Music Series. First Thursday of every month. French Market, 916 North Peters Park, 11am.

2-4 The New Orleans Orchid Society 2023 Show. Hundreds of plants available during the event; Lakeside Shopping Center, 10am- 7pm; Place your order at ecuagenera.com

2 Mary Chapin Carpenter. The Orpheum Theater, orpheumnola.net

3 A Picnic for All Y’all. French Market, 1-4pm.

3 Adonis Rose and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra Celebrate Prince. The New Orleans Jazz Market, 1436 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 504-371-5849, thenojo.com

3 Bogue Falaya Fitness Roux Ga

Roux. Run through historic downtown Covington, traverse obstacles in Bogue Falaya Park, and paddle up the Bogue Falaya River; 319 E. Gibson St., Covington, 985-302-4469, BFFGym.com

3 Riverwalk Summer Fest. Familyfriendly event featuring live music by local artist DJ Polo 504, outdoor activities, food vendors, and character photo opportunities. Spanish Plaza, 12-4pm, more info at myneworleans.com.

7-11 New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. Cheers to 31years! Showcasing three main stage events: Vinola, Tournament of Rosés, and The Grand Tasting. Tickets at nowfe.com

7 Duran Duran. Smoothie KIng Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Dr., 504-587-3663, Smoothiekingcenter.com

8-24 Twelfth Night. Tulane Shakespeare Festival. 150 Dixon Hal Annex, neworleansshakespeare.org

8 Vinola - New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. An intimate setting to sample a variety of rare and highly valued wines expertly paired with delectable food crafted by local chefs. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 5:30- 6:00 PM, VIP tickets $280, 6-8:30 PM, general admission $215, nowfe.com

8 Audubon Aquarium Reopening. The newly renovated aquarium now includes the combined experience with the

19-25 Restaurant Week New Orleans. Louisiana Restaurant Association and New Orleans & Company, neworleans.com

Briquette.

Audubon Insectarium, which will feature a butterfly pavilion and Bug Apetit, the insect tasting cafe.

8 Women’s Business Alliance. Hosted By NOLA Boards + Symmetry Jewelers. Network over cocktails at our monthly informal meet & greet exclusive to the ladies of the New Orleans Chamber; complimentary Hors D’oeuvres and Happy Hour -priced drinks, NOLA Boards, 5pm- 7pm.

9 Tournament of Rosés - New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. You be the judge and cast your vote for your favorite in the ever-popular People’s Choice Awards for the Rosé category. The Filmore, 6 Canal Street, 6:30 early entry, 7-9 PM general admission, nowfe.com

10-11 French Market Creole Tomato Festival. 37th Annual, frenchmarket.org

10-7/2 The Producers. 30 by Ninety Theatre, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sunday 2:30pm, 880 Lafayette St., Mandeville, 844-843-3090, get tickets 30byNinety.com

10 The Grand Tasting - New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. Wine connoisseurs will take pleasure in the opportunity to meet winemakers, ask questions, and taste special appellations from across the globe. Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Boulevard, 2:30 PM VIP $215, 3- 6PM general admission $149, nowfe.com

10 2023 New Orleans Heart Ball. The Higgins Hotel, 1000 Magazine St., New Orleans, black tie optional, event.gives.com.

10 The Oddities and Curiositites Expo. For Lovers of the Strange, Unusual & Bizarre. Ernest N. Morial Convention Center- Hall J, 10am-6pm, tickets $10 in advance, $15 day of, kids 12 and under free, odditiesandcuriositiesexpo.com

10 Brooke E. Posey Swim-a-Thon Family FUNdrasier. Benefitting the Brooke Erin Posey Foundation, 10 AM- 5pm, Southern Yacht Club, 105 N. Roadway St., New Orleans.

15-18 The Music Man. Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre. Dixon Hall, liberalarts. tulane.edu

16-18 Jurassic Jungle Presents The Great Dino Rescue. Immersive and interactive adventure show for families; created by conservationists and expert puppeteers with more than a dozen free-roaming dinosaurs. Tickets $30 for adults, $20 for children, 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, 216-512-0773, >>

JurassicJungle.org

18 Juneteenth Freedon Gala. The Kickoff, Andre Cailloux Center, 2541 Bayou Rd., 6-9 PM, nolajuneteenthfestival.org

19 New Orleans Juneteenth Festival. Congo Square, Louis Armstrong Park, 835 N. Rampart St., 2 PM- 7 PM, free admission, nolajuneteenthfestival.org

19 New Orleans Zydeco Fest. A.L. Davis Park, 11 AM to 9pm, nolazydecofest.com

19-25 Restaurant Week New Orleans. Louisiana Restaurant Association and New Orleans & Company, neworleans.com

24 Crown Me Annual Gala. Honoring the Crown Me Image Awardees chosen by the community and high school senior and college freshman scholarship awardees. The Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St., New Orleans. To purchase tickets, sponsorships, and/or vendorships, please visit crownmefoundation.org

24 Petite Sweet: A Ball for All. Celebrating summer, creativity, art, fashion, and the experimental spirit in the spirit of the Fauves, with a French Riviera vibe! Featuring live music, DJs, dancing, light bites, open bar, experiential art activations and so much more! The evening is sure to be a night not to miss of excitement, fantastic libations, amazing food, and cutting edge entertainment! Attire: French Riviera Fabulous;

Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 7 p.m. Patron Party, 8:30 general admission, tickets at cacno.org

29-7/3 ESSENCE Festival of Culture. Presented by Coca-Cola-New Orleans, featuring Missy Elliott, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Megan Thee Stallion with special performances by Jill Scott and Wizkid, Superdome Evening Concert Series, festivalinfo@essence.com

July

4 4th Fest in Crescent Park. 4pm-10pm, frenchmarket.org

4 Go 4th on the River. An Independence Day Celebration on the Historic Downtown New Orleans Riverfront, 5:30 PM -9:30 PM, free admission, go4thontheriver.com

6-9 Little Shop of Horrors. Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre. 104 Dixon Hall, liberalarts.tulane.edu

13-30 Romeo and Juliet. Tulane Shakespeare Festival. 150 Dixon Hall, neworleansshakespeare.org

15 Running of the Bulls. location TBA, 6:30 AM, nolabulls.com

22 Jackson Browne. Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 8pm, 504-525-1052, neworleans.broadway.com

23-28 Tales of the Cocktail. World’s leading cocktail conference; talesofthecocktail.org

RISING DEFIANTLY ABOVE THE BANKS of Bayou Bonfouca stands George Dunbar’s largest work of art, his home and two studios carved into the marshland by the legendary artist himself. Inside, sweeping panoramic floor to ceiling windows open onto a seemingly endless expanse of marshland sitting on the cusp of Lake Pontchartrain.

On one side of the room, a large antique mirror reflects two of Dunbar’s works of scale—a piece from the series Coin du Lestin, a carved geometric composition reminiscent of Celtic knots, hangs over a stately stone fireplace, and on the adjacent wall hangs a large work of scale from his Surge series, depicting precise vertical carvings shining triumphantly from the dark abyss of two floating black rectangles. The sun’s beams illuminate the palladium-gilded clay of which the works are composed, creating a refraction effect and drawing the eye to the center of the piece.

On a clear day overlooking the water, Dunbar sits at the head of his glass dining table reading the morning paper. Dunbar is a small man with a formidable presence, even into his 90s.

George Dunbar was born in New Orleans in 1927,

the son of Phelps Dunbar’s founding partner, Charles Edward Dunbar, Jr., a Tulane and Harvard Law School graduate who developed the modern civil service system in Louisiana, and Ethelyn Legendre Dunbar, of New Orleans.

From a young age, George Dunbar’s mother taught him a deep appreciation for the arts and culture. Dunbar explains: “My mother believed in travel, and she took me places when I was very young. She would drop me off at the museums and leave me there for hours. I got to the point where I knew the Metropolitan so well as a little boy, that I would just gravitate to the certain areas I liked.”

Dunbar attended Country Day in Metairie and was a star quarterback for the football team. He knew from an early age that art was his true passion. “When I was in high school, I enjoyed drawing cartoons of the people in my class, particularly when they didn’t know it,” Dunbar tells me jocularly.

After high school, Dunbar was offered a scholarship at ULL to play football. But he felt the patriotic call to serve and joined the navy at 17 and was deployed to the Philippines during World War II. Following his military

Distinctly Dunbar

service, he studied at the Grand Chaumiere in Paris, France, and later received a B.F.A. in painting from the Tyler School of Art at Temple University. Just as Dunbar began to gain notoriety, fate brought him home to Louisiana to care for his ailing mother, and the history of Louisiana Contemporary Art was changed for the better.

Soon after returning to Louisiana, Dunbar became a founding member of the Orleans Gallery. “I was taking care of my mother, who had a long term illness. My intention after returning from Europe was to return to Soho and be a painter there. But what I discovered was a group of very good, very serious, up-and-coming contemporary artists in New Orleans, only two of whom were from here. It was a gallery of artists opening and operating a gallery for artists. We opened in what is now the entrance to the Historic New Orleans Collection,” Dunbar recalls.

The audacious goal of the gallery was to foster contemporary art in Louisiana and to make other cities aware of New Orleans as a creative arts and cultural center. Not only did the Gallery accomplish this goal, but virtually every art gallery in New Orleans finds its nexus in the art

by Cayman Clevenger

the Indelible Fingerprint of the Art and Legacy of the Father of Contemporary Art in Louisiana

and artists of the Orleans Gallery.

Opened in 1956, on the stark white walls hung the works of Ida Rittenberg Kohlmeyer, Lin Emery, George Dureau, and George Dunbar, among many other Louisiana contemporaries. Dunbar tells me the real reason for opening the Orleans Gallery: “We wanted a clean space. All good contemporary artists want a space where the artwork isn’t competing. What you see now as commonplace in galleries didn’t exist at that time: a clean space free from distraction with great lighting that would allow the work to speak for itself.”

Dunbar describes the brilliant manner in which new artists were admitted to the Orleans Gallery. The Gallery created a selection committee made up of “the heads of the art schools at LSU and Tulane, and two museum directors,” to whom artists blindly submitted their work. As a result, the committee chose artists’ works based entirely on merit, without regard to gender or even notoriety. “Ida Rittenberg Kohlmeyer and George Dureau got in that way; as did Katherine Choy, a teacher at Newcomb, and in my opinion, the best ceramist to ever come through New Orleans.” >>

To provide for his family, Dunbar also became the largest land developer in Slidell while simultaneously pursuing his art and fostering and teaching a generation of young artists. He explains: “I would dig canals in the morning when I was young. I would paint in the afternoon, and at night I would teach. It was a long day, but I was doing different things all day.”

Dunbar taught at the 331 School with Robert Helmer and ran that for about eight years on Chartres Street in the French Quarter. He has also taught art classes at Tulane University, UNO, and Isidore Newman. And he co-founded the first art gallery on the Northshore with Helmer, converting an old library to a serene, contemporary, well-lit space.

National notoriety, however, certainly did not allude Dunbar. Since his first solo exhibition in Philadelphia in 1953, Dunbar’s artwork has been displayed in museums, galleries, and exhibits around the world, including a oneman show of his work titled, “George Dunbar: Elements of Chance,” at New Orleans Museum of Art. Dunbar found

himself at the forefront of the art world and the abstract expressionist movement in New York in the 1950’s, being shown alongside Franz Kline and Willem de Kooning. Even at 95, Dunbar’s work is ever-changing and evolving, and his work continues to speak for itself. He visits and revisits different periods of his work, constantly challenging himself to create new work that is fresh, relatable, but distinctively Dunbar. “I change my work all the time. I don’t want to be a one-trick pony. I want to experiment and try other things and do other things. But as an artist, it is so important that even if you change and do something entirely different, somewhere along the line your thumbprint remains a part of it.”

Dunbar spends weeks, sometimes months, on a single work. His process is tedious and rife with the pursuit of movement, depth, texture, and perfectionism. Dunbar’s use of clay as an essential component of his work harnesses the elements of the swampland that surrounds him. He regularly paints dozens of layers of clay, heated in small batches and combined with a natural, proprietary concoction of pigmentation, clay, and emulsifiers, which when added together and sanded down create the smooth surfaces in the negative space of Dunbar’s work. “Surface is really something that I’m very aware of and something I’m always trying to look for,” he tells me.

The raised portions of his work are skillfully molded from the clay, then filed down, carved, scraped, grated, sanded, and occasionally shot with birdshot, to achieve the unique textures for which his work is known. “Sometimes we absorb things that influence our paintings. Living in the marsh, I see this landscape change color and texture almost every month. Texture and surfaces have always been very important to me. Looking at a marsh from above is an influence of some kind, both consciously and subconsciously. I love texture, and I do lots of things to distress works.”

Dunbar works meticulously with a menagerie of

tools, found objects, and construction and cooking instruments, as well as traditional art supplies to mine the surface of his unique, contemporary masterpieces. He often adds his signature, usually a last step in his process, with a sharp object such as an ice pick and sometimes signs his pieces on more than one side. A true abstract, he tells me, should be able to be displayed in multiple ways.

“The most important thing in my work now is to keep moving,” Dunbar tells me. A nimble nonagenarian, Dunbar uses a cane, but still works intensively every day in his studio, creating the unique marks, painting on layers of clay, and meticulously adding gold and palladium leaf to his works in the traditional means of leafing that has been used for thousands of years. “When I was stationed in the Philippines in WWII, I would go to small towns, and I would see gold leaf. I went to Cuba before the revolution and gold leaf seemed to be everywhere. In Central America and Mexico, I saw gold leaf in churches and in sacred places.”

There is also more to the beauty of Dunbar’s work than first meets the eye. “If you get really close to some of my works, you’ll see that I sandblast the surface >>

to make the clay show through the gold leaf,” he tells me. The lines in each work are etched through layers of clay with Dunbar’s hand, creating a palpable depth that is not visually apparent without close inspection. “The lines in my works are really engravings. I use engraving tools to make marks through the gold leafing, which is very thin, into the clay below,” he tells me.

Despite the depth and dimension of his works, which border on the sculptural, Dunbar still considers himself primarily a painter. “I am painting, and all of a sudden, I’m using clay to build up a surface over time. I think a lot of painters end up doing sculpture too. Even though they are totally different medias, it is important to try different things to evoke different effects.”

Dunbar is completely open to the artistic process, and he is willing to cede control to make the art as visually appealing as possible. “Sometimes as an abstract artist you’ll be working all day with different colors and mediums, and the floor becomes littered with what you were using. Sometimes what makes it onto the canvas is not as interesting as what makes it onto the floor. I call that the ‘accidental triumph,’” he tells me.

“The most important thing to me as far as people viewing my work is to know that I have my thumb print on it. That it is mine.” Critics, collectors, and museums agree, Dunbar’s thumbprint on contemporary art and his home of Louisiana is indelible.

The Ogden Museum recently awarded Dunbar the prestigious OPUS Award for his significant, lifelong contributions to the complex fabric of the Southern Arts in front of four hundred artists, philanthropists, and patrons of the arts at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s “O What A Night” Gala. Noticeably moved by the well-deserved honor, Dunbar held back tears remarking: “There is no greater honor than to be recognized by my peers and the children of my peers. Thank you.”

Dunbar is the subject of an upcoming, all encompassing PBS documentary about his life and art, and he has recently been honored by the Helis Foundation with the placement of the largest sculpture to ever be commissioned for display on the Sculpture Corridor on Poydras Street in the Central Business District in New Orleans.

His public works can be viewed at esteemed institutions such as the British Museum, the Whitney Museum of American Art, New Orleans Museum of Art, and Ogden Museum of Southern Art.

Siblings Strike Success

by Greta Honsberger

INDIAN-AMERICAN AUTHOR and philosopher Deepak Chopra says, “If you want to do really important things in life and big things in life, you can’t do anything by yourself. And your best teams are your friends and your siblings.” Most would agree with Chopra’s assertion, especially regarding siblings together in business. This issue of Inside New Orleans explores five businesses where siblings successfully work together.

MEGGAN ORY & MADISON DUPRE MAKEUP BY MEGGAN

Working together since 2018, sisters Meggan Ory and Madison Dupre make quite a team when it comes to the business of beauty. Licensed Aesthetician, creator and owner of Makeup by Meggan, Meggan says she and her little sister, also a Licensed Aesthetician, make the “ultimate team.” No surprise, considering the level of trust and loyalty these two ladies share. Meggan notes their mutual trust in business and life “...is something that cannot be bought.”

Their success is enhanced by working well together, supporting one another, communicating effectively, and complementing each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Madison explains that the two have very different personalities, which works well for them. “Working with Meggan is actually pretty amazing,” says Madison. “Her energy pushes and motivates me daily!”

The relationship between these two sisters has only gotten stronger with time. Madison calls their relationship

Above: Kasey Lyn Lopez and Kiley Lyn Eubanks of K Lyn Photography. Below: Meggan Ory and Madison Dupre of Makeup by Meggan.

as sisters and co-workers “complete.” Their dedication and hard work are paramount in their business, but sometimes just hanging out and chatting is also fun. Says Meggan, “I love talking to her about the latest makeup, skin, and lash trends.” They respect each other’s opinions and ideas and always collaborate to find the best look for their clients. For Meggan and Madison, the journey of working side by side has its ups and downs, but, as Meggan notes, “Within that is our perfection.”

KASEY LYN LOPEZ AND KILEY LYN EUBANKS K LYN PHOTOGRAPHY

Sisters Kasey and Kiley make the perfect team. Both are photographers and do photoshoot sessions, but when it comes to other aspects of their business, they have their own roles that work in tandem. Kasey is the primary photo editor and runs the business side of things, while Kiley oversees client relations, scheduling, and the planning of photo session logistics. It works well for them because, as Kiley explains it, “ Kasey’s strengths are my weaknesses and vice versa. We complement each other.”

The bond they share as sisters and business partners is a treasure. In business together for twelve years, Kasey and Kiley have forged their success on the cornerstone of trust, similar values, and a mutual drive to give their clients the best service and photographs. They push each other to give their best for their shared goal, which revolves around creating the best photographs for their clients.

There are few bonds like that of sisters, and for Kiley and Kasey, the bond formed in childhood is everlasting. Their mutual love is expressed through kindness, support, and protection. Three years into their business, Kasey had her first child. As a new mom with a full-time job as a dietitian and her side gig as a photographer, Kasey was anxious and overwhelmed. During those first few harried months, Kiley would come over unexpectedly and force her exhausted sister to take a nap while she took care of the baby. During this time, Kasey was ready to give up on their photography side business. Kiley, however, could see that their side gig had a lot of potential to become successful, so she took the reins and mostly kept the business going single-handedly. It was a difficult time for both sisters and finding balance was challenging. But these sisters,

who are also close friends, deeply understand each other’s personalities and values. Because of this, they were each able to find the right balance, and as Kasey reflects, “The wonderful thing about working with your sister is that we always support each other and want the best for each other.” This beautiful support would be essential as Kasey and Kiley moved forward in their successful photography business. In time, their side hustle business would become their career.

BRITTANY PICOLO-RAMOS AND JOEL PICOLO GODWYN REALTY

Brittany Picolo- Ramos and her brother Joel Picolo have worked together for five years selling real estate. In those five years, brother and sister have been on the same team on and off. However, with all of the experience they have acquired in the past five years in the field, they have forged a partnership with the Picolo-Ramos Team as they pursue the best deals for their Godwyn Realty clients.

President of Godwyn Realty, Brittany, is also Team Leader and Listing Specialist for the Picolo- Ramos Team. Joel is the Sales Manager for Godwyn Realty and serves as the Buying Specialist for the Picolo-Ramos Team. This brother and sister duo has found their rhythm in the real estate world.

Brittany’s favorite part of working with Joel is that he is on the same wavelength as her and can often read her mind. She says working with Joel is “like working with my twin.” Joel feels the same way about their ability to know what the other is thinking without the benefit of >>

Brittany PicoloRamos and Joel Picolo of Godwyn Realty.

words. Another very significant trait these two share is the trust they have for one another. Brittany conveys this the best, “ There’s a trust there that isn’t something you can find outside of your family.” Agreeably, Brittany and Joel share the same values. The principles they live by include recognizing the values of relationships and protecting those they love. Coupled with these principles, these siblings have a strong work ethic modeled for them by their entrepreneur parents. Joel also points out that one of his favorite parts of working with his sister is attending events. “Together,” says Joel, “We can really work a room, and by the end of [the evening], everyone knows who we are.”

Siblings do like to tell childhood stories about each other, and Brittany and Joel have some great ones. Brittany likes to tell about when Joel was that kid obsessed with Jurassic Park. She says, “He could run faster on all fours than most people could on two legs and was always greeting people with velociraptor sounds.” She adds that Joel was a sweetheart and was always down with his older sisters dressing him up for fashion shows. Not to be outdone by his sister’s story, Joel shares his own funny memory of Brittany and says that somewhere, there is a VHS tape to prove it. Once, Brittany, along with their other sister, made a music video for the Sinead O’Connor hit, “Nothing Compares 2U.” It truly must have been entertaining, as Brittany

was the one on the drums in their classic music video. If that VHS ever turns up, please let those of us at Inside New Orleans know.

When it comes to working together, it sounds as though Brittany and Joel have mutual respect for each other and the work they do together. Finally, when asked for a quote about working together in their business, it was simply said: “Two Picolos are better than one!”

JENNY MCGUINNESS AND JESSICA WOODWARD PHINA & THE BASKETRY

Sisters Jenny McGuinness and Jessica Woodward opened their first Phina store in 2016. There are three locations of these fabulous home, gift, and children’s stores in the New Orleans and Metairie areas. They also recently bought The Basketry, a gift store specializing in custom gift boxes for anyone and any occasion. About the origins of these businesses, Jenny explains a bit of background, “Phina is named after our greatgrandmother, and The Basketry was built by an amazing family with loyal customers and an incredible staff who have been there for years.”

The sisters balance the business responsibilities impressively, collaborating on things like buying but divvying specific tasks like sales data analysis or marketing according to personal skill. Jessica’s civil engineering

Jessica McGuinness and Jessica Dalton of Phina and The Basketry.

background and her head for numbers make her great at data. She understands the best-selling items and quickly knows what needs to be bought and in what quantity. Jenny’s background in advertising has led her to take the lead on social media and marketing projects.

Jenny and Jessica agree that the best part of working with each other is knowing they always have each other’s back. Collaboration is key for these two. They constantly bounce ideas off each other to determine the best decisions to move forward through challenges or significant opportunities. Knowing they’re in it together, Jenny and Jessica find it easier to take risks.

It isn’t just their other sister that they rely on. Their businesses are indeed a whole family affair. Jessica said, “It’s not just the two of us. Our parents and our husbands are big parts of the business, and we couldn’t do any of it without them.” A prime example is when they decided to open the Harrison Avenue Phina location before Christmas, shortly after signing their lease in November. They drove to Ikea through the night to pick up their display fixtures, and with their dad’s truck filled with boxes, they got it all back the next day. Their husbands and kids even pulled numerous all-nighters, all helping the store successfully open on December 18. Jenny and Jessica’s success is unquestionably owed to how strongly they prioritize family partnerships in their businesses. There is no doubt that their strong bond will help them to continue to grow their list of accomplishments!

TINA PHAM, TORI PASENTINE, BAO KA AND KEVIN VO ROYAL RETREAT DAY SPA

In March 2022, siblings Kevin, Tina, Tori, and Bao opened the new and fabulous Royal Retreat Day Spa in Mandeville. Each sibling brings unique talents and skills to run their business successfully. Kevin’s primary roles

involve management, front desk, and payroll. Tina is the lead Esthetician, oversees facial protocols, and trains new employees. Tori works as the hiring manager with a focus on marketing and promotions. She also created the menu and designed and decorated the beautiful space. Bao is the spa’s master-level massage therapist.

While reflecting on their childhood, Tori tells a funny story about a little game the four used to play called King and Queen Day. The premise is that one sibling gets to be the king or queen on a given day. It is pretty much a game of servitude for all who are not the king or queen. Tori says that Bao was always king. He had everyone else running around getting him water, food, blankets, whatever his heart desired. Tori did get to experience it one time, but not her poor sisters. She finishes the story by saying, “We spent our childhood being Bao’s servants.”

While it’s clear that these four are incredibly hardworking, they don’t let their roles as co-workers bar them from having some fun. Tina explained, “My favorite part of working with my siblings is that we can joke all day with each other but know when to get serious.” Balancing the sibling camaraderie and discipline required to run a business is a difficult challenge for most, but something that seems to come easily for this family.

What makes these siblings work so well together is their uniqueness. Each one has their own set of strengths that they contribute, not just their professional skills. Kevin’s favorite part about working with his siblings is learning the positives and negatives of each other and helping each other grow as individuals. Bao said they make a good team and always motivate each other, even when things get tough. Like all successful family businesses, Kevin, Tina, Tori, and Bao have excellent talent for balancing their love for each other and their commitment to hard work. This love and dedication to one another will surely make building the Royal Retreat Day Spa brand effortless.

Kevin Vo, Tori Pasentine and Bao Ka of Royal Retreat Day Spa.

Chris is the President and CEO of Fidelity Bank and NOLA Lending. While he initially pursued a career in education, he realized that he could help a lot of people in the world through banking and financial services. He’s proud that Fidelity Bank is a valued-based mutual financial institution that takes a consultative approach to their client’s needs. “Every day we have an opportunity to educate and help people achieve financial success,” he says. This year, Fidelity Bank is celebrating its 115th year serving the New Orleans community. The bank was founded in 1908 as Fidelity Homestead, focusing on home mortgage loans. Many generations of New Orleanians received their first home loan from Fidelity Homestead.

Now, as a full-service bank, Fidelity Bank offers all traditional banking products and continues to lead the area in home loans through their

mortgage division, Nola Lending Group. The Bank continues to expand and will open their 19th branch in Baton Rouge this summer.

When choosing a bank for your business, Chris suggests, “Don’t base your decision solely on products or price. They are important, yes, but look to do business with an organization that understands you and your business on a deeper level and has a proven track record of safety and soundness.”

Chris graduated from the University of Georgia, the Graduate School of Banking at LSU, and the BB&T Banking School at Wake Forest University. He is a member of Vistage Worldwide, the world’s largest CEO coaching and peer advisory organization for small and mid-size business leaders.

When he isn’t busy as a leader in business banking, he enjoys being with his wife and two children, playing golf, and cycling.

Chris Ferris FIDELITY BANK

For Brittany Picolo-Ramos, building relationships and the determination and hard work to get her clients the best deal have made her brokerage Godwyn Realty, ERA Powered, the success story it is today. Putting these concepts into practice has been the cornerstone of Brittany’s mindset since starting in real estate in 2013. Through the years, Brittany and her team have worked hard to establish their business and client base, and in 2019, she established brokerage firm Godwyn Realty, ERA Powered. Their brokerage mantra says, “Real Estate Should be Personal.” It is a simple notion that implies a great deal regarding business. Brittany expounds, “It’s that personal touch that makes all the difference.” With this core value at the forefront of everything they do, Brittany and her team have assisted over 1,000 clients in their real estate needs and sold over 300 million dollars in property.

The agents at Godwyn Realty want their clients to feel at ease with every transaction. They take pride in easing the burden of buying and

Brittany Picolo-Ramos

Godwyn Realty is located at 1943 Sophie Wright Pl. in New Orleans. 504-300-5179.

Brittany.godwynrealty.com

selling a home for the client. “We can help guide you to the right home and negotiate on your behalf to make sure you make the right choice every time,” notes Brittany.

A recent milestone for the brokerage is the two-year mark in establishing their Sophie Wright Place office in the Lower Garden District. Also reaching its two-year mark is Brittany’s role as the Face of New Orleans and star of HGTV’s hit show “Selling the Big Easy.” And an upcoming and exciting launch is in the works with Godwyn Commercial. Passionate about helping clients with their commercial real estate needs, Brittany and the team at Godwyn can’t wait to start this new journey. Great things are ahead for this Reader’s Choice Top Real Estate Agent recipient for Inside New Orleans Magazine. There is no doubt about the continued success of Brittany Picolo-Ramos and Godwyn Realty.

New Orleans Creole Cookery is located at 510 Toulouse St., New Orleans, 504.524.9632. NewOrleansCreoleCookery.com.

Anna Tusa

Briquette is located at 701 South Peters, New Orleans, 504.302.7496. briquette-nola.com.

Dr. William Hudson is the owner and creative force behind Regenesis Medical Spa and Laser Skin Clinic, a state-of-the art medical spa studio offering comprehensive aesthetic skincare. At Regenisis, “Age is just a number.” Located in Mid--City, Regenesis specializes in laser skin rejuvenation and resurfacing, IPL phototherapy, laser tattoo removal, micro needling (collagen-induction therapy), chemical peels, scar and stretch mark treatment, Botox and Dermal filler injectables, as well as blood vessel and pigment correction.

Since 2015, Regenesis Medical Spa has provided New Orleans with the most advanced, minimally invasive, results-oriented medical aesthetic skincare and anti-aging skin treatments which allow our clients to rejuvenate and revitalize their skin. Our wide array of skin rejuvenating treatments can help you restore and maintain your beauty and youthful appearance providing results that appear natural and effortless. Dr. Hudson’s comprehensive list of services paired with his expertise and artistry consistently deliver effective and noticeable results enabling our clients to look and feel younger, more confident, and beautiful, restoring your skin’s youthful glow.

At Regenesis, Dr Hudson can customize an individualized treatment plan selecting treatments that will assist you in acquiring skin that appears firmer, healthier, radiant, and younger looking. Whether you are concerned about fine lines and wrinkles, visible signs of aging, pigmentation issues, acne scarring, or problematic skin, we have the treatment for you to enable you to look and feel your absolute best.

To schedule a free consultation, visit Regenesisspa.com or call 504-400-6480.

Dr. William Hudson

Tonia Munster & Megan Naccari Munster

With an eye for professional beauty and extensive aesthetic knowledge, Saintly Skin owner and esthetician Megan Naccari Munster loves making her clients look and feel their best. From facial treatments to injectables, Saintly Skin offers an array of services to help you accentuate your beauty. Owner Megan Naccari Munster shares, “I love getting to know our clients and seeing the happiness and confidence they build while receiving our skin care treatments. It is very important to us that all of our clients come in feeling welcomed and leave knowing they have not only received the best treatment, but also

have built a friendship with us and our staff.”

Agency owner and agent Tonia Munster puts her clients first. Born and raised here, Tonia knows what her clients are dealing with. Part of what I like best about my job is that I can offer customers options for a wide variety of coverage and services for protecting your home, personal property, and financial future. They can depend on me to help look at the big picture. I’m committed to helping my clients assess their immediate and long-term needs. I want to help in choosing an option that will not only help them achieve their goals, but also fit their lifestyle and budget.

“This is our home. We enjoy being a part of our unique community, and building relationships with our clients.” Megan and Tonia Munster, along with their teams, make it a priority to be detailed in informing and educating clients on all the services and products needed to achieve the goals they are trying to accomplish whether it’s with Saintly Skin Medical Spa or Allstate Insurance Company. Together, Tonia and Megan have a beautiful 1-year-old daughter, Kingsley Emelia. “We strive to raise our baby girl to be a strong woman and will support her in whatever her future holds as our parents have for us.”

Tonia Munster Insurance Agency is located at 4232 Williams Blvd. Ste. 105. in Kenner. 504-467-7641. toniamunster@allstate.com

Saintly Skin is located at 3000 Kingman St., Ste. 101, in Metairie. 504-475-5510. saintlyskin.com

Annette Dowdle, RHU, CCWC, CHRS

With the right team, benefits can be simplified. At HUB International, Annette and her team thrive in helping businesses implement innovative benefit programs for recruiting and retaining best-in-class employees. Committed to simplifying the complicated world of employee benefits, she champions a modern approach to employee-centric benefits.

“We want to go above and beyond. We take the whole experience and make it surprisingly better by streamlining the process, which helps employers create an engaged culture with their employees. Then, it becomes more than just benefits,” Annette says.

As the largest privately owned brokerage/consultant within the US and Canada, it’s HUB’s goal to build high performing companies. Annette and her team help organizations build the employee benefits experience that sets them apart. How does it work? First, they take an in-depth look at your current plans and policies. Next, they use data and analytics to better understand your workforce, providing key insights to employees’ unmet needs. Then, Annette and her team help design a better benefits experience.

“Someone who is dealing with a serious medical condition has a lot of claims. They might need some hand holding, and we do that for them. This makes them feel comfortable enough that they can ask the questions they don’t really want to ask their employers.” Employees can engage with consultants wherever they prefer to be met. “Because the world and technology has changed, we’re flexible in digital, paper, and telephonic. We can meet each generation or person in whatever channel they are comfortable in.”

The many stories of how HUB has made a difference in people’s lives is what keeps Annette learning and collaborating. “I work with phenomenal team members who are passionate about what they do. They care about our clients and the work that they do together,” she shares. “All of that is very deliberate. Our HUB employees are just as much customers as our customers. If they’re happy working for not only HUB, but for me, they’re going to give our customers a really good experience and work really hard for them.”

Annette is a graduate of Leadership St. Tammany and Leadership Louisiana. “Leadership training and networking give me avenues to connect with people inside and outside of my network,” Annette says. “It allows us all to draw from each other’s experiences to not only help our businesses, but our communities.”

She is a graduate of the 2022 Loyola Women’s Leadership Academy class and serves as a board member. She is also a part of the Women United Leadership group in Southeast Louisiana and the National Women in Construction practice for New Orleans.

“People take insurance for granted until it’s needed, but it’s then that it can change people’s lives. We are making a difference.”

The Furloughed Four

The Furloughed Four creates a unique experience which allows its patrons to become guests in their own homes! Due to the demand and the restrictions during the Covid pandemic, this small team of long-time restaurant managers, comprised of Chefs Doug Braselman and Mario Reyes, and Sommeliers Ray Gumpert and Taylor Terrebonne, bring upscale hospitality and fine dining to private residences. Its unique combination of high standards and comfortable hospitality ensures that no catering service can even come close to providing its signature experience.

Ray Gumpert of The Furoughed Four has this advice to give, “If you enjoy something like a certain wine with a certain dish, don’t feel pressured or obligated because of what other people consider the ‘right thing’. For example if you love drinking white Burgundy with your grilled steak-go for it!”

The Furloughed Four was recently featured in a piece by Ian McNulty with The Times Picayune & NOLA.com, highlighting Chef Doug Braselman’s recent purchase of Meme’s Bar & Grill, a local favorite restaurant and a staple in St. Bernard Parish. Still running full force with The Furloughed Four

concept, the success of both businesses is simply feeding off one another. This tight-knit team will soon complete its 300th private event and roll out its brand new summer menu. One of its newest summertime courses is featured in “Last Bite” in this issue of Inside New Orleans

Greg K. Stock, MHA CEO, THIBODAUX REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Greg Stock, CEO of Thibodaux Regional Health System, originally wanted to become a city manager, but switched to healthcare administration. “I became fascinated with the complexities of the job and the opportunity to make a difference in the quality of people’s lives,” he says.

Thibodaux Regional is the regional healthcare provider for Lafourche, Terrebonne, and the surrounding parishes. They provide a wide range of inpatient and outpatient care, including services such as comprehensive cardiovascular care and heart surgery, comprehensive cancer care, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, women’s services, obstetrics, inpatient and outpatient physical rehabilitation, and health and wellness services.

Thibodaux Regional recently opened its 80,000 square foot, state-of-the-art Cancer Institute and its Sports Complex, which is the second phase of their 242,000 square foot Wellness Center. The innovative and technologically advanced Cancer Institute is a premier facility that will continue to provide patients with high-quality cancer care close to home. Built to benefit the community, the Sports Complex will complement services offered in the adjacent Wellness Center and focuses on offering additional and innovative aspects of sports and fitness to provide people of all ages the

opportunity to engage in physical activities that can lead to longer, happier, healthier lives.

Over the years, Thibodaux Regional has received many awards and recognition for its superior patient care, technology, community involvement, education and outreach, and much more. “What sets us apart is our powerful vision, performance from the heart, accountability and innovation,” Greg says. When selecting a hospital, Greg suggests finding one that puts the patient first. “Ask people you trust to share their experience and preferences. Check third party ratings such as

the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Healthgrades, CareChex and others.”

Greg’s favorite aspect of being CEO is creating a powerful vision and working to make it a reality. When he isn’t working to improve lives through Thibodaux Regional, he’s actively involved with his church. He also has directed and supported fundraising efforts to benefit many charities and organizations, such as the American Cancer Society and The Haven, a non-profit organization that benefits women and children who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Chazzie Williams

Chazzie Williams is the owner of Healthy Portions Meal Company in Mandeville, LA. She is a passionate believer in the potential of every person to be the best that they can be and strives every day to help others to believe in themselves. This passion is the driving force behind her brand. A former personal trainer, she understands the difficulties in changing behavior, but believes that if you focus on health as your goal and not weight, you can succeed in achieving your goals.

As a personal trainer, Chazzie watched her clients try fad diets that never worked, and she was concerned that her three children were resistant to eating healthy foods. Ultimately, when she received a cancer diagnosis and underwent a double mastectomy, she was determined to turn the tide. She explains the ramifications,”My own health, the health of my children, the health of our generation, and generations to come should not be compromised by synthetic ingredients, fried foods, and overprocessing.”

Healthy Portions Meal Co. offers New Orleans flavor and achieves and maintains healthy weight targets through proper nutrients and clean ingredients that are desirable for all ages.

Healthy Portions Meal Co. subscriptions include: keto, low carb, low fat, paleo, and vegetarian. It’s proud to be a part of the Ochsner Eat Fit program. Chazzie also furnishes meals to feed your entire family. Each week, the menu is crafted for your success.

Now cancer-free, she inspires others by her own journey. Her hard work and perseverance have led to success and health for herself, her family, and her clients.

Chazzie and Healthy Portions Meal Co. will be there for you along your journey.

Healthy Portions Meal Co. is located at 1705 LA-59 Suite 9, in Mandeville, LA. 985-635-1132 Eathealthyportions.com

Bao Ka

Royal Retreat Day Spa massage therapist Bao Ka, has indeed found his passion, but it took a little time. Fresh out of high school, Bao vacillated about his future. He tried various jobs, but they were just jobs. There was something significant missing in each position, and Bao knew there had to be more. Bao’s sister suggested that he should explore certification classes in massage therapy. His interest and curiosity soon grew into a passion. Open to the idea, Bao signed up for the classes. Bao graduated from National Massage Therapist Institute [NMTI] in Virginia. With thirteen years of ongoing experience and continuous education, he has mastered his craft and looks forward to servicing his clients.

Bao specializes in deep tissue massages, sports massages, acupressure, lymphatic drainage and hot stones for heat therapy.

Bao will transform your mood using one of Royal Retreat’s four oils designed to heal and release deeply rooted stress. Created for different lengths of time with a combination of therapies and personalized for each client, these oils, integrated into massage, give the mind and body precisely what it needs.

Words of advice he would offer someone looking for their passion: “Repetition, consistency, discipline, and don’t give up.” This sage advice has served Bao well. Thirteen years in the making, he is now the master massage therapist and business partner with his three siblings in Royal Retreat Day Spa.

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Jay Lacour

I started my private practice in Ophthalmology in July 1999 when I joined Dr. Scott Lanoux and Dr. Jim McComiskey in their Uptown practice after completing medical school and residency at LSU New Orleans. Our friends and colleagues at Eyecare Associates provided us with space to open our Metairie location after Katrina flooded the city in 2005, and we combined our practices in 2019.

Our on-site ambulatory surgical center (OESC) provides the latest in eye surgical technology, including Catalys laser-assisted cataract surgery, ORA interferometry, and extended-range intraocular lenses backed by the best technicians, nurses and staff who are consistently complimented for their patient care daily.

Our highly trained ophthalmic technicians and welcoming front office staff enhance the patient experience and enable our doctors to provide the superb eye care our patients in the greater New Orleans area expect to receive. Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration increase in incidence as we live longer. Diabetic eye disease worsens over time. If you have been too busy or have been delaying doctor visits, pick up the phone and schedule an eye exam with your eye doctor. For many of you, it will be sight-saving; and, for some, it may be life-saving.

We are fortunate to be enjoying our second year at our new uptown location at 3715 Prytania Street, Suite 250.

I currently serve on the board of our surgical center and am a member of the physician advisory board of EyeSouth Partners. I am also a past president of the New Orleans Academy of Ophthalmology.

I support Boys Hope Girls Hope, Second Harvest Food Bank, and The Harry Thompson Center, along with other organizations.

LeNae Goolsby, JD

In 2013, after providing community oncology cancer care for over 30 years, Trip Goolsby, MD, and LeNae Goolsby transitioned their practice into what is now known as Infinite Health Integrative Medicine Center.

Infinite Health IMC is a precision-based integrative and regenerative medicine practice providing cutting-edge modalities designed to empower its patient partners to become the CEO of their healthcare and achieve success in health and longevity.

Recently, LeNae and Dr. Goolsby launched the Your Infinite Health podcast, where they discuss peer-reviewed and evidence-based approaches to creating the health and longevity we all desire.

Eye Care Associates of New Orleans is located at: 4324 Veterans Memorial Blvd - Metairie

3715 Prytania Street, Suite 250 - New Orleans

504-455-3036 www.eyecareneworleans.com

Jessica LeBlanc, CPA/CFF, RENE/ePRO

Jessica LeBlanc and her husband, Greg LeBlanc, own CPA Realty, LLC, a small boutique real estate brokerage helping a variety of clients pursue their interests in real estate and/or expand their real estate portfolio, whether it is involving a commercial, residential, or investment property.

The CPA Realty team also includes several other valuable team members. Jessica’s son, Trey LeBlanc, handles marketing and is currently pursuing an accounting degree at LSU. Megan Bardales is the executive office assistant and has a business management degree. Colby Wenck, owner of the Wenck firm, is an attorney and a realtor with CPA Realty. Wesley M. Franatovich is a Realtor® and holds an anthropology degree from LSU.

Jessica is a Certified Public Accountant who is Certified in Financial Forensics. She also has received the National Association of Realtors’ certifications of Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) and e-PRO as well as the Commitment to Excellence Endorsement.

In addition to CPA Realty, Jessica also owns a CPA consulting firm called Jessica D. LeBlanc, CPA, LLC, which is a small boutique firm helping a variety of clients with their outsourced accounting and forensic accounting needs.

Rachel Neumeyer, DDS, takes pride in making visits comfortable and relaxing at Revival Dental. Dr. Neumeyer is dedicated to her patients’ overall health and confidence, so she uses cutting-edge technologies to give a more pleasant dental experience that is surprisingly less stressful than the usual dental visit. Revival Dental offers same-day crowns, veneers, implants, Botox, dermal fillers, and much more.

Revival Dental was voted top dentist in New Orleans in 2022 and 2023 by Inside New Orleans readers, which is no small feat considering it is just celebrating its two year anniversary.

Jessica Marasco Illes

As an Edward Jones financial advisor, I love that I get to wake up every day and help create wealth with my clients. I became a financial advisor after seeing the grave need for women in the financial industry, as well as someone who understood entrepreneurs and people with unconventional careers.

Because Edward Jones is a privately-owned company and not publicly traded, I truly work for my clients—not shareholders—when I give advice and create a strategy. As a team, we create a strategy to help get them to their goals.

I find that a common misconception of financial advising is that people do not think they have enough money to need a financial advisor.

Whether you want to plan for retirement, education, or ensure you have income to cover your expenses, I offer personalized service and longterm investing strategies instead of the latest investment fads.

I am a series 7 and 66 registered financial advisor, and proud alumna of Northwestern State University, Dominican High School, and NOCCA. In addition to serving as president of the St. Martin’s Moms’ Club, I am a member of The Touchdown Club of New Orleans, Fidelity Bank POWER, Gretna Economic Development Association and the Krewe of Cleopatra.

When not working with clients, I enjoy cheering for the New Orleans Saints. I am the wife of Derek Illes, an audio mixer for film and television. Together, we have a very curious and independent 2 -year-old named Scarlett and two lovable rescue pups, Baby Colston and Buster.

Lindsey Pham

Lindsey lost her beloved son Michael in March 2016. Despite the pain of grieving, she bravely decided to open Pho Michael in honor of him. To her surprise, the process of starting her own business became therapeutic. She taught herself the ropes of running a restaurant and even the art of cooking, all with the determination to keep her son’s legacy alive.

Pho Michael specializes in Vietnamese pho soup made from quality ingredients, with no MSG products used. Everyday, the broth is prepared from scratch for nearly 24 hours with over 100 pounds of bones, briskets, and beef tender. Pho Michael is best known for their house spicy beef soup made with a special sauce that gives the broth its perfectly unique savory and spicy flavor.

The reward of running this business is that it has helped her find peace. Looking out the restaurant’s window, she can see her son’s name on the sign and is reminded of his memory. She finds comfort in knowing that her son’s legacy will live on through Pho Michael.

Meet with Jessica at Edward Jones located at 606 N. Carrollton Avenue. 504-486-8645. Edwardjones.com. Member SIPC

Pho Michael Vietnamese Cuisine is located at 3559 18th St. in Metairie, LA 504-304-4301 phomichael.com

Paula Polito

Paula Polito is the owner of Beary Cherry Tree in Metairie and has operated this high-quality early care and education center since 1999. Today, Beary Cherry Tree serves over 200 Jefferson Parish families.

In addition to overseeing everyday operations, Paula currently serves as a contract trainer for Teachstone, the maker of the Classroom Assessment Scoring System® (CLASS). Through implementation of the CLASS tool, Paula understands measures of quality in early care and education, and she ensures teacher-child interactions at Beary Cherry Tree meet – and exceed – these standards. In addition to quantitative success, Paula has received heartfelt stories from Beary Cherry Tree families about their children’s growth and development.

Outside of the classroom, Paula serves as Advisory Board Chair for the Louisiana Department of Education, commission member for the Louisiana Early Childhood Care and Education Commission, and advisory council member for Jefferson Ready Start Network. She previously served as Education Chair for the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Lauren Agnew

“American Bank is a community bank in the truest sense of the word,” says Alton McRee, President and CEO. “We focus on relationships and our customer experience. Because we’re a community bank with local ownership and decision makers, we process loan requests quickly and ensure our local businesses are set up for success.”

Under his leadership, American Bank was recognized as Louisiana’s #1 SBA Lender in 2022, and is a preferred Small Business Administration lender for the Gulf South Region. With a wealth of knowledge around the process, McRee stays actively involved with his lending team, visiting bank clients directly to understand their businesses and goals.

American Bank has branches in Covington, Mandeville, Hammond, Terrytown and Coushatta. Call (985) 898-0206 or go to AmericanBankUSA.com for more information.

Alison

on the foundations of honesty, transparency, and exceptional service for the independent business owner. Says Ms. Burns: “We sell a top 3 overhead expense for businesses, and the pricing structure is highly unregulated. We try to not only educate on merchant services, but we love to help our businesses retain more of their revenue. It’s a passion!”

Alison is one of a handful of recipients of the prestigious Certified Payments Professional designation in the southern region and a leader with the Gulf Coast chapter

Alton McRee AMERICAN BANK

Alison with Precision Payments can be reached at  aburns@precisionpaymentsystems.com.

founded Precision Payment Systems

of PayTech Women. PPS has offices in Metairie, LA, and Orange Beach, AL.

Alison L. Burns

Kelly Martin

When Kelly Martin was in fourth grade, she discovered her passion for volunteering at a local nursing home. Now, thirty-four years later, that passion is her career. As the executive director of The Laurel Senior Living, Kelly was chosen to attend the Alzheimer’s Association Leadership Summit in San Diego this past January, where she gained valuable tools and insights on how to engage her residents, their families, and her employees in the fight against Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Kelly has experienced the pain of losing many family members, but she has found purpose in her grief through volunteerism. Currently, she serves as co-chair on the planning committee for the Alzheimer’s Association not only to honor her paternal grandmother who suffered from this disease, but also for the residents she serves. Additionally, both of Kelly’s maternal grandparents passed away from cancer, so Kelly is involved in several upcoming fundraisers for the American Cancer Society.

In response to the unimaginable loss of her seventeen-year-old son in 2017, Kelly founded the non-profit Collin Archuleta Hope Memorial Fund which helps other children suffering from mental illness. To learn more about this important cause, visit www.painttheworldpurple.org.

Kathryn Perrin

Kathryn Perrin, the owner of La Cocina Nola, was born and raised in Miami with a passion for cooking, especially Cuban classics. What started out as a hobby turned into a business venture in 2020 and exploded into avenues Kathryn never thought possible. Married with two small children, family life brought her to Louisiana where she continued La Cocina Nola. As Kathryn says, “It’s the spice Louisiana was missing”.

Since its inception, there was a constant question when meeting with clients. “Do you know someone who can do flowers and rentals? Can you put it all together?” That’s when she knew she needed to expand. Working with some of the best in the hospitality industry, Kathryn has added events and decor to her list of services available through La Cocina Nola. Uniquely working with all budgets and ideas far beyond the imagination, Kathryn makes every event better than the last. Follow along the with ever-growing possibilities she provides on Facebook and Instagram.

Reach

The Laurel Senior Living is located at 1101 Aline St. in New Orleans. 504-350-2244. LaurelNOLA.com

Having the opportunity to instill confidence in women through the power of beautiful hair is empowering. Working with each guest, one on one, allows me to truly connect with my clients on a personal and professional level.

This career is much more than exceptional hairstyling. I have the power to change a woman’s life. As someone who struggles with my own insecurities, creating that feeling of value in another woman is exhilarating!

My business is supported by so many remarkable women, whether they sit in my chair or we work together to build from the knowledge of one another. A special thank you to all of the women that have supported me on this beautiful journey!

Mary Jane Walsh is an international executive coach and high impact speaker who has helped thousands of individuals and organizations to expand their business vision, develop growth strategies, achieve revenue goals and multiply impact.

Services include business and executive coaching, leadership and sales seminars, and executive retreats.

Clients span industries including technology, real estate, wealth management, lending, marketing, small businesses, C-suite executives, banking and credit unions, and many more.

Studio Lu Elle is located at 3348 West Esplanade Ave., Ste. 204, Metairie. 504-655-9868, and online at  studioluelle.org

Learn more at MaryJaneWalshTHRIVE.com for more information. Email MaryJane@MaryJaneWalshTHRIVE.com or call (504) 252-0127 for more information.

Raven Davis

Annunciation Management Team

With a combined experience of almost 100 years in the New Orleans Hospitality Industry, the Annunciation Management Team understands what it takes to deliver the fine dining experience they are known for in the Warehouse District of downtown. “It’s really our team that makes working here so special. Although we come from different restaurant backgrounds, we treat each other, our staff, and our guests, like family. That resonates with locals and tourists alike.”

Owner, Kristin Sparks, a graduate of the University of New Orleans Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism School, considers Annunciation an establishment that offers traditional New Orleans neighborhood fine dining in a relaxed but upscale environment. Open since 2012, the restaurant conveys a mix of old and new traditions. “We have such a remarkable and unique opportunity in New Orleans to show people a food culture that is really unmatched anywhere else in the world. Our Executive Chef Jose Castaneda has a distinctive way of creating dishes that utilize conventional Creole Italian flavors and showcasing them in contemporary styles.”

Annunciation Restaurant is located at 1016 Annunciation St. 504-568-0245. annunciationrestaurant.com.

Charique L. Richardson, MBA

FOUNDER, DIGITAL INNOVATION MEDIA GROUP

Digital Innovation Media Group founder Charique Richardson established her web design agency with a foundation of strong ideals. A paragon of these ideals is her commitment to giving clients the best. “Fueled by faith and a commitment to quality, I have built lasting relationships with clients, treating their goals as my own and providing exceptional, personalized service,” says Charique. In describing Charique’s commitment to her clients, phrases such as “personalized attention,” “ongoing support,” and “seamless process” continue to come up. These phrases translate into a web design agency that clients know will go above and beyond for their website needs. Charique gives some unique advice to readers when she offers, “Begin your journey without perfection, learning, and improving as you progress. Lastly, rely on your faith to guide you in the right direction and provide a strong foundation for your endeavors.” This year, Charique’s commitment to her clients has earned a nomination for the Ernest Morial Small Business of the Year Award. For this honor, she humbly notes, “Win or lose, being nominated is a blessing.”

digitalinnovationmg.com contact@digitalinnovationmg.com

BEFORE SURGERY, every time Patricia MancusoMaronge stood up she experience numbness and burning pain from her waist all the way to her ankles. Patricia recalls that she, “had no quality of life, none whatsoever, for over two years. Epidurals and nerve blocks did not help. Nothing helped.”

Patricia met with Dr. John Steck after he performed successful surgeries for Patricia’s husband and sister. He answered every question Patricia had. “He was very patient and understanding of how much pain I had been in for years.” According to Dr. Steck, “Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal causing compression of the spinal cord and nerves. This causes lower extremity pain, weakness, and numbness. With standing and walking, the legs get weak, numb, or have radiating pain. It can severely affect quality of life.”

“The goal of the four-hour surgery was to enlarge the spinal canal and take the pressure off the spinal cord and nerves. Some cases, when the spinal vertebrae are out of alignment, also require a fusion,. Mrs. MancusoMaronge had stenosis at three lumbar levels with instability, so she needed a three-level decompression with fusion, eight screws, and two rods. It is major surgery, but,” Dr. Steck assures, “it can be done safely.”

Dr. Steck performed Patricia’s surgery at West Jefferson Medical Center. After surgery Patricia

Medical Condition: Spinal Stenosis

Treatment: A Lumbar Laminectomy, Foraminotomy, and Facetectomy, Translaminar approach for Interbody fusions and Posterolateral Fusion at the L 3, 4, 5 and S1 levels

by Kelly Hightower

recuperated at West Jefferson Medical Center’s rehabilitation unit under the care of Culicchia Neurologist Michael Puente. Dr. Puente is also the co-medical director of the hospital’s inpatient rehab unit. “Post-surgery rehab and physical therapy are important to guide the patient through the recovery phase from surgery until they are once again able to resume their normal activities,” Dr. Puente explains.

Now, eight months after surgery, Patricia has had no pain in her back - none. She can once again enjoy the activities she loves. She has no problem standing at the door of her church and serving as the greeter for everyone who enters. “I had deterioration of the bone, osteoarthritis, and stenosis. I had a multitude of things going on,” Patricia declares. “The surgery relieved all of it. I cannot sing Dr. Steck’s praises enough.”

John Steck, MD, FAANS leads the spine team at Culicchia Neurological Clinic in Marrero and is a Clinical Associate Professor of Neurosurgery at LSU Health New Orleans. He is consistently listed as a leading doctor in Inside New Orleans and other publications. He graduated from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and completed a general surgery internship and a neurosurgical residency at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

Patricia MancusoMaronge.

with

Dr. John Steck of Culicchia Neurological

The Laurel Senior Living

THE RECENT RENOVATION of The Laurel Senior Living community is nothing short of breathtaking. The exterior of the building and surrounding grounds received a facelift. Inside, new layouts for the rooms and common areas made them more ADA-accessible and spacious. The magnificent 3-story sunlit atrium brings the outdoors inside with lush interior landscaping surrounding a grand fountain. The large, secure courtyard includes a walking path, putting green, and a resident gardening area. The Laurel boasts every imaginable amenity including: a beauty salon, therapy center, sensory dens, and an art studio.

Locally co-owned and operated by Stuart Coleman with Executive Director Kelly Martin, The Laurel Senior Living is unique in offering engaging Independent Living, Assisted Living, and memory care. With 24-hour licensed nursing care and multiple types of care options available, their goal is to help you choose the right situation for you or your family member.

The Laurel provides independent seniors with a vibrant social life, special events, and outstanding, chef-prepared dining. Wellness plans are personalized and proactive. Let the staff worry about housekeeping, transportation to doctor appointments, and preparing meals while your loved one enjoys an independent lifestyle and the freedom to enjoy the Magazine Street location.

Assisted Living might be the next step if your loved one needs more thorough daily care. The team at The Laurel provides around-the-clock care of nurses and security along with assistance with everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal reminders. Located on the third floor of The Laurel, you’ll find the area’s only all-female memory care designed exclusively for the memory care needs of women. The Laurel Memory Care studios are very spacious with modern amenities. Each studio has its own private bathroom, including an accessable shower with safety bars and an emergency response system. The Laurel Memory Care provides a warm and safe environment so that families may have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are well-cared for.

Executive Director Kelly Martin assures you, “When it’s time to turn the corner into a life of comfort, security, and expert care, you will find it at the all-new Laurel on the corner of Magazine and Aline.”

The Laurel is located at 1101 Aline Street New Orleans. 504-350-2244. laurelnola.com.

by Kelly Hightower

Senior Care and Retirement Living

Banking

American Bank

Covington, Mandeville, Hammond, Terrytown and Coushatta. 985-898-0206 AmericanBankUSA.com

Fidelity Bank

800-220-2497 Bankwithfidelity.com

Dental

Revival Dental

4432 Conlin Street, #1B, Metairie 504-889-1209 Revivaldental.com

Financial Advisor

Edward Jones, Jessica Marasco Illes 606 N. Carrollton Avenue. 504-486-8645 Edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Funeral Services

Dignity Memorial 985-635-4745 dignitymemorial.com

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home and Cemeteries

5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. 504-486-6331 dignitymemorial.com

Insurance

North American Insurance Agency

2255 N. Hwy. 190, Covington 985-871-5480 800-229-2789 naiala.com

Tonia Munster Insurance Agency 4232 Williams Blvd. Ste. 105., Kenner 504-467-7641 toniamunster@allstate.com

Senior Living

The Laurel Senior Living 1101 Aline Street, New Orleans 504-350-2244 laurelnola.com

St. Anthony Gardens 601 Holy Trinity Dr., Covington 985-605-5950 stanthonysgardens.org

Wellness

Infinite Health Integrative Medicine Center

LeNae and Trip Goolsby, MD 3900 Veterans Blvd., #204 Metairie, 504-323-0025

Yourinfinitehealth.com

LCMC Health Urgent Care

Algiers, Gretna, Clearview, Lakeview, Covington, Marrero and Uptown

LCMChealthurgentcare.com

The Skin Surgery Centre 1615 Metairie Rd., Suite 101, Metairie 504-644-4226 theskinsurgerycentre.com

Thibodaux Regional Medical Center 602 N. Acadia Rd., Thibodaux 985-447-5500 thibodaux.com

Westside Orthopaedic Clinic

Ralph Katz, MD 1301 Barataria Blvd., Marrero 504-347-0243 westsideortho.com

SummerSpecials

Dental

Revival Dental

June 1st-August 31st: $11 units for botox and $100 off dermal fillers. $100 professional teeth whitening (includes trays and KOR whitening system.

4432 Conlin Street, #1B, Metairie 504-889-1209 Revivaldental.com

Spa

Royal Retreat Day Spa

3571 Hwy 190, Mandeville 985-231-7329 RoyalRetreatDaySpa.com

Restaurant

The Blue Crab

Happy hour Tuesday-Thursday 4-6:30

Live music Friday-Sunday

7900 Lakeshore Dr., New Orleans 504-284-2898 thebluecrabnola.com

New Orleans Creole Cookery Oyster Bar Special, 3-6pm Discounted chargrilled & raw oysters and discounted drinks. 510 Toulouse St., New Orleans 504-524-9632 NewOrleansCreoleCookery.com

Pho Michael Vietnamese Cuisine

3559 18th St, Metairie 504-304-4301 phomichael.com

Gift Shop

Judy at the Rink 2727 Prytania Street, New Orleans 504-891-7018 judyattherink.com

Museums

Historic New Orleans Collection 520 Royal St, New Orleans 504-523-4662 hnoc.org

by Greta Honsberger

Kurtz-Roberson

On September 10th, 2022, Annie Kurtz of Mandeville and Cameron Roberson of Thousand Oaks, California, celebrated the Sacrament of Matrimony at The Basilica of St. Stephen. Celebrant Father Doug Busch and Deacon Ronnie Hathorne, Sr., the groom’s grandfather, presided over the Mass and the exchange of vows.

Choosing St. Stephen Basilica for their wedding was easy for the couple, given its awe-inspiring 130-year-old wooden vaulted ceiling, magnificent reredos, and a pipe organ that is one of the oldest in the city.

Given away by her father, who sang his college fight song to distract her before walking down the aisle, Annie wore a structured Mikado mermaid wedding gown by Enzoani from Linen Jolie in Metairie. One of the first wedding gowns she tried on, Annie felt wonderful in it. Loving the chic, classic gown and sheen of the fabric and cut, she opted to add a romantic touch and paired sleeves with it that she wore for the ceremony and removed for the reception. Her gorgeous gown was completed with a cathedrallength veil with subtle lace trim.

Crystal Vase Flowers was a genius in finding the perfect happy medium for Annie and her mom. Annie wanted lots of greenery for a calming feel, while her mom wanted a bit more. Crystal beautifully created the perfect combination of the two visions. The bride’s bouquet was a combination of greenery with white ranunculus, wrapped in lace from her mom’s wedding dress, and a blue rosary that was also her mom’s.

Drawn to the colors of light sage green and champagne because of their classic, clean, and calm feel, Annie and Cameron’s wedding reception at The Riverview Room in the Jackson

Brewery had a fresh and light feeling. The Riverview Room, which overlooks the Mississippi River on one side and Jackson Square on the other, was perfect for the celebration. Surrounded by large windows showcasing the lights of the Hotel Monteleone, the beautiful wood paneling on the bars, and the lit terraces, made an unforgettable setting.

The Riverview Room, with its own chef and menu, made the catering aspect of their reception easy for Annie and Cameron. Choosing classic Creole cuisine and creative fusion choices for their guests offered something delicious for every taste. The city’s flavors tantalized everyone’s taste buds and added a distinct local flair to the couple’s celebration.

After dining on tasty local cuisine, guests were treated to another New Orleans favorite from Haydel’s Bakery. The stunning four-layer white almond cake with buttercream frosting, including pineapple and buttercream filling, was adorned with greenery and white ranunculus. The groom’s cake was a nod to the alma mater of the groom (and bride) in a replica of Notre Dame University’s iconic Golden Dome.

Annie and Cameron’s vibrant and unforgettable celebration was filled with unique traditions, rich cultural heritage, and the city’s infectious energy. Still, the most profound memory of their night came as they looked out at their families. Annie explains this moment, “We felt overwhelmed with gratitude to our families and our parents for giving us the most beautiful start to our new lives.”

The Robersons reside in Lakeview, where Cameron continues his career as a project manager in sports data, and Annie is a dentist on the Northshore. Their new roles as husband and wife, says Annie, “Feel like a new level of supporting and empowering each other.”

photos: MICHELLE PREAU

1. New Navarette Collection, great Modern Farmhouse style, 3 sizes and multiple finishes, gas or electric. Gulf Coast Lanterns, Covington, 800910-3275, gulfcoastlanterns.com.

2. Bellera 32” chandelier by Kohler in Brushed Moderne Brass. Southland Plumbing Supply, Metairie, 504-835-8411; Mandeville, 985-893-8883, southlandplumbingsupply. com 3. Colorful Glassware Collection, $28. Fur.nish, Metairie, 702-8514, shopfurnishnola.com 4. The Lutyens wood garden bench offers a classic, elegant design that will elevate any outdoor setting. $379. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 985-893-8008, outdoorlivingcenter.com

5. Customize your home with creations from Closets By Design!  A gift that lasts a lifetime! Closets by Design, Covington, 985247-0230. neworleans.closetsbydesign.com

6. Beach Chair Neo-Transat Jaune $68. Judy at the Rink, 891-7018, judyattherink.com 7. Bring the scent of Summer into your home with our new Aperol Spritz candle. Hilltop Shoppe, 533-9670, hilltopshoppe.com

1. Ruby and Diamond drop earrings set in 14K White Gold, $5,995. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, Metairie, 831-2602, boudreauxsjewelers.com

2. Sunglasses by Balmain. Eye Wares, 301-1726, eyewaresnola.com

3. 18k yellow gold Marco Bicego Lunaria double drop earrings available exclusively at Aucoin Hart Jewelers, Metairie, 834-9999, AucoinHart. com 4. Achieve a clearer, more even complexion with the latest innovation from skinbetterscience. New Orleans Aesthetics, 475-1000, neworleansaesthetics. com 5. Diamond Glow facial by Natura Bisse. This invigorating facial is anti-aging, targets hyperpigmentation, improves skin texture and softens fine lines. Royal Retreat Day Spa, Mandeville, 985-231-7329, RoyalRetreat.LA@gmail.com

6. Maui Jim prescriptive eyewear. UV protective optics with the latest Maui Jim styles. The Looking Glass Optical, Metairie, 504-455-3036, eyecareneworleans.com/opticalshop-metairie 7. Mysterium Collection Sparkly Vermeil & Tourmaline Earrings, $290. Symmetry Jewelers, 504861-9925, symmetryjewelers.com 8. Intellishade Original, a 5-in-1 daily anti-aging tinted moisturizer with broadspectrum SPF 45 that is formulated to correct, protect, conceal, brighten and hydrate skin. Saintly Skin, 475-5510, saintlyskin.com 9. What all women really want...Art! Fur. nish, Metairie, 702-8514, shopfurnishnola.com

Women In Business Luncheon

Inside New Orleans Women in Business Luncheon guests enjoyed complementary mixed Solit drinks and champage during cocktail hour with a delicious 3 course lunch at Briquette. Briquette Restaurant’s service, food, and atmosphere rated 5 stars for all 150 of our guests.

INside Peek

Eden Centers for Hope and Healing hosted a breakfast on April 4 to honor the First Lady of Louisiana Donna Edwards for her contributions to anti-human trafficking. The event also celebrated the opening of the Eden Emergency Center. 1. Lisa Romano, First Lady of Louisiana Donna Edwards, Kara Van de Carr and Vincent Giardina. 2. Juli Miller Hart, Ayame Dinkler, Andy Kopplin and Manny Linares. 3. Katherine Green and Courtney Freeman.

Black and Gold Gala

stunning facility provided a remarkable atmosphere for the premier event of the year which featured an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, casino games, a silent auction, auction games, and live entertainment.

The Jefferson Chamber hosted its annual Black & Gold Gala, presented by Ochsner Health and hosted by the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, on Friday, March 31 at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center. This

1. On June 24th, Crown Me Foundation will host its annual gala at The Ritz Carlton. You can purchase your ticket at crownmefoundation.org

2. & 3. Longue Vue House and Gardens Design Symposium.

4. The Ladies Leukemia League is a volunteer organization dedicated to raising funds for leukemia and lymphoma research in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. ladiesleukemialeague. org

5. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the newest development in Fat City which includes the reveal of new sculpture created by local artist Christy Boutte.

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Cocktails Around the World Spain & Portugal Edition

I’M SO EXCITED to share the most popular cocktails from my recent trip to Spain and Portugal. The most popular cocktails in Spain were Tinto de Verano, Sangria, and gin & tonic. Whereas, the most popular cocktails in Portugal were Port Tonic, Port Passionfruit Sour, and Ginjinha

If you have the opportunity to visit the Douro River Valley, you will experience some amazing quintas. A quinta is a Portuguese wine growing estate. I had the opportunity to visit Quinta Vale D. Maria (Aveleda Wine), which has an amazing garden on the estate. I tried the green wine which was crisp and refreshing. At the beautiful Quinta da Roeda(Croft Port), I tried Rose Port for the first time. At Quinta da Avessada, the wines, the history, the meal, and the family’s welcome made the experience so memorable. Once we arrived in Porto, another fun experience was touring the port shortage facilities and, of course,

trying more port. All the wines were excellent and very reasonable- $3-5 euros per glass.

The first cocktail recipe I’d like to share is the Tinto de Verano, which literally translates to summer red wine. The drink is common in tapas bars, on terraces, and with locals. It’s the Spanish version of a spritz: light, easy, and refreshing. Ingredients:

½ cup dry red wine

½ cup Fanta Limon (Sprite would work also)

lemon slice

Ice

Fill a high ball glass with ice, pour in wine, Fanta, and lemon slice. Stir and serve.

Sangria is sold in most tapas bars and restaurants by the pitcher; very popular with locals and tourist alike. Ingredients:

1 orange chilled

1 lemon chilled

1 lime chilled

by Anna Tusa

1 750 mil dry red wine chilled ½ cup simple syrup (this is to taste so you could use less)

1 ½ cup rum chilled

1 cup orange juice chilled

Slice all fruit into thin rounds. Place in glass pitcher. Pour in rum and simple syrup, and then place in refrigerator for 2 hours so that the flavors can blend. Remove and lightly crush the fruit with a wooden spoon and stir in wine and orange juice. Adjust the sweetness as desired. Serve with a long spoon in the pitcher. Pour into a stemless wine glass and enjoy over ice if you desire.

Let’s move across the border and try some delicious Portuguese cocktails like Port Tonic. Ingredients:

2oz dry white port (Taylor Fladgate Chip or Fonseca Siroco)

4 ounces tonic water chilled (Fever Tree Mediterranean)

Lemon wheel

Pour port wine into a wine goblet filled with ice, top with tonic water, and gently combine. Garnish with lemon wheel.

Another drink using port,the Port Passion Fruit Sour highlights a popular ingredient in Portuguese cocktails, passion fruit. Ingredients:

1oz white port

1oz gin

¾ fresh lemon juice

¾ oz passion fruit puree

1 egg white

Combine all ingredients into a shaker tin filled with ice, shake well, and strain into a chilled coupe glass or serve over ice in a high ball glass. Garnish with a rosemary sprig.

Another fun drink to try in Portugal is Ginjinha de Obidos. It is made from cherries and served in small shot glasses or small chocolate cups. When exploring Lisbon, I saw a literal hole in the wall with a line of people coming from it. So, I wanted to know what all the fuss was about. I approached the counter and paid $1.50 euros for a shot of some sort of liquor. Well, what I received was a strong shot of deliciousness, a cherry liquor with 3 small, infused cherries at the bottom of the glass. It warmed me on a cold Lisbon night. While walking around Lisbon we stumbled onto some older ladies selling the Ginjinha da Olga in little chocolate cups, just like eating a cordial cherry. Ginjinha is on every corner in Lisbon and worth a shot.

I truly enjoyed eating all the delicious foods that they serve in Spain and Portugal, and I highly recommend this as a great travel destination for those travelers who like culinary adventures, wine tastings, and history.

In the words of the Spanish, “Salud” or the Portuguese, “Saude!”

Send me photos of your favorites to my new Instagram account: Shaken’ Up Nola.

Haute Plates

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

ANNUNCIATION

1016 ANNUNCIATION ST. NEW ORLEANS 504-568-0245

ANNUNCIATIONRESTAURANT.COM

Annunciation restaurant is located in the New Orleans Warehouse district. It is the ideal spot, for an intimate evening, corporate dinner or celebrating any special occasion.

Chef’s Choice Ravioli changes weekly. Pictured above, Seafood Ravioli with crab and crawfish topped with Monica sauce and garnished with basil.

The Blue Crab

7900 LAKESHORE DRIVE NEW ORLEANS, LA 504-284-2898

THEBLUECRABNOLA.COM

The Blue Crab invites you back to the golden days of lakefront dining. With the desire to reestablish dining on Lake Pontchartrain as a destination for families once again, The Blue Crab invites you to join us for the freshest seafood. Come enjoy the sunset. Let the little ones wave at the boats as they pass by.

Blue Line Sandwich Co.

2023 METAIRIE RD. METAIRIE, LA 504-309-3773

BLUELINESANDWICHCO.COM

Farm fresh breakfasts and lunches at Blue Line Sandwich Co. Pictured above is the homemade, locally sourced St. Patty’s Day Massacre Corned Beef sandwich. Catering and Delivery available.

Boulevard American Bistro

5171 CITRUS BLVD. NEW ORLEANS 504-410-5171

BOULEVARDBISTRO.COM

Boulevard American Bistro features classic American dishes, exceptional service, and consistent quality. Our Metairie, Elmwood, and Covington locations offer dine-in, curbside pick-up, and delivery. Visit our website to view our menu and make reservations.

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

Briquette

701 SOUTH PETERS ST. NEW ORLEANS

504-302-7496

BRIQUETTE-NOLA.COM

Award-winning contemporary coastal cuisine featuring Gulf seafood and fish, beef, lamb, chicken, Maine lobster and unique chef specials daily.

Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard

819 RUE CONTI

NEW ORLEANS 504.581.3866

BROUSSARDS.COM

Since 1920, Broussard’s sensational French-Creole cuisine and historic French Quarter architecture have delighted locals and visitors alike. Enjoy brunch in the courtyard or dinner in our elegant dining rooms. Broussard’s offers an extensive brunch and cocktail menus carefully crafted by Executive Chef Jimi Setchim.

Furloughed Four

504-319-9071

FB/IG: @FURLOUGHEDFOUR

THEFURLOUGHEDFOUR.NET

Veal Saltimbocca with prosciutto, sage, and confit of garlic, artichoke hearts, and roasted tomato.

The Furloughed Four specialize in seasonal tasting menus with wine pairings in the comfort of your own home or venue.

Healthy Portions

1705 HWY. 59, STE. 9

MANDEVILLE 985-635-1132

EATHEALTHYPORTIONS.COM

If you want to reduce the time you spend on making food, let our chefs create your meals based on your preferences, whether it be keto, low-fat or double protien meals. We prepare New Orleans flavored, perfectly portioned and calorie restrictive meals for you weekly. Order your meals weekly or drop in and pick up meals to go from our refrigerator. Approved Ochsner Eat Fit NOLA food provider.

Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails

337 CHARTRES ST.

NEW ORLEANS 504-598-5005

KINGFISHNEWORLEANS.COM

At Kingfish, we tip our hat to the Huey P. Long era, serving up new-school twists on traditional New Orleans cuisine. Everyone who eats and drinks with us is treated like a king! Our bar, with its mix of signature and classic cocktails, is the perfect place to meet up with friends and family for a drink in the French Quarter.

La Cocina Nola

305-336-6877

LACOCINAINFO00@GMAIL.COM

IN/FB: @LACOCINANOLA

Indulge in generationsold Cuban classics, from Cuban sandwiches with housemade mustard and 13-hour roasted pork to Abuela’s arroz con pollo. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a 7-course tasting, La Cocina Nola can do it all.

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.

Pho Michael Vietnamese Cuisine

3559 18TH ST, METAIRIE

504-304-4301

PHOMICHAEL.COM

Pho Michael Vietnamese Cuisine is located in Fat City by Lakeside Mall. Spicy Beef Soup “Bun Bo Hue” is Pho Michael’s signature and most favorite by our customers.

THIS MONTH’S FEATURED ENTREE is compliments of The Furloughed Four. Enjoy the mouth-watering Gulf shrimp and pork skewers with lemongrass, cabbage, cilantro, mint, peanuts, and nuoc mam paired with a refreshing glass of Stadt Krems Austrian Gruner Veltliner. This is one of the four savory courses for the new summertime tasting menu.

The Furloughed Four specializes in seasonal tasting menus, wine pairings, craft cocktails, and world class hospitality all from the comfort of your own home or private venue. Chefs Doug Braselman and Mario Reyes work side by side with Sommeliers

Ray Gumpert III and Taylor Terrebonne to make up this team of fine dining experts. Due to the pandemic, these four went from running one of the best restaurants in the world to being furloughed over night. Not knowing that it would soon become a full-on business, they began to bring their passion to

where they could, people’s homes!

Chefs Doug and Mario have a long-standing friendship and have been cooking with one another for over a decade in restaurants such as Emeril’s New Orleans, Toups Meatery, and many of the Brennan restaurants here in New Orleans. Ray Gumpert and Taylor Terrebonne worked their way through the ranks of the Emeril’s family of restaurants beginning as busboys and eventually becoming sommeliers of a Wine Spectator Grand Awardwinning wine list. Ray Gumpert also worked as a general manager. The Furloughed Four has provided over 275 of their signature experiences for groups ranging from four to eighty, totaling an estimated 3000 guests. They are just getting started!

You can reach The Furloughed Four at TheFurloughedFour.net, call or text by phone at 504-3199071, or through email at FurloughedFour@gmail.com

by Kelly Hightower