St. Charles Avenue June 2013

june 2013

MAGAZINE

Chairs John and Ann Hairston and Suzanne and Michael Mestayer for the “2013 Whitney Bank Victory Ball.”

on the cover

The National World War II Museum’s “2013 Whitney Bank Victory Ball” is themed On the Front Lines of Freedom. This gala evening will honor war correspondents and WWII veterans and their “personal reflections during the war that changed the world.”

On Friday, June 14, chairs Ann and Michael Hairston and Suzanne and Michael Mestayer will begin the evening with the Superior Energy Patron Party, which will be followed by a seated dinner in the museum’s U.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center, featuring delicacies by John Besh. The ball will specifically honor Dr. Lester Tenney, Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams, Ralph Morse, John Whitehead, Maurice “Hank” Greenberg and Major Norman Hatch (awarded in absentia). Entertainment for the evening will be Jump, Jive and Wail, “a world-class show that captures the music, style and comedy of the WWII era.” The night will conclude with the fourth annual “Otto Candies, LLC How Sweet It Is! Dancing and Dessert Soirée,” featuring more dancing, and delectable bites and drinks in the Stage Door Canteen and American Sector Restaurant.

All proceeds will benefit the museum’s local and national educational outreach initiatives, which reach more than 85,000 students each year.

For more information and to purchase tickets, call 528-1944 extension 306 or visit NationalWW2Museum.org/victoryball. F Photography by Jeffery Johnston Special thanks to National World War II Museum’s Public Relations Manager Rachel Haney.

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 1

table of contents

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20 features 20 How Sweet the Sound

“Amazing Grapes” auctions fine wine to preserve history.

22 Steel Magnolias Bloom

New Orleans Museum of Art’s “Art in Bloom” blossoms in its 25th year.

24 Visions of History

“Sugarplum Ball” celebrates a King and benefits Children’s Hospital’s Autism Center.

26 Beating the Heat

“Lark in the Park” brings “Cabana Nights” to City Park.

28 River Revelry

Preservation Resource Center celebrates 36 years of “Julia Jump.”

30 Inspired Southern Seafood

“Cajun Night” raises funds for educational services before its “Fun Shoot.”

32 Promise Makers

Daughters of Charity Services of New Orleans honors health care providers.

34 Only a Paper Moon

The Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival celebrates the Williams Songbook.

36 A Week to Celebrate

38 Cracklins for a Cure

“Hogs for the Cause” helps children diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer.

40 Playing It Cool

Children’s chic just in time for back to school.

By Lisa T udo r

44 Special Section: The Dog

2 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

New Ideas

The entrepreneurial spirit thrives in New Orleans.

Days of Summer

Six local dog-friendly businesses divulge the latest pet trends.

by Ke l cy Wi lb ur n

table of contents

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18 standards 8 A Note From Bev 10 Cruisin’ the Crescent b y s h e lb y w e s tf e l dt

12 Skin Deep

Fancy a Lift?

By Cat Wall Aschaffenburg

14 What’s Hot: Father’s Day

b y C ar o l i n e Ma lo u s e

16 On the Menu

A Mean Mein: Chef Chip Flanagan of Ralph’s on the Park’s Yaka Mein appetizer.

18 The Dish

53 Student Activist

Play On: New Orleans restaurants that aren’t afraid to play with their food.

by G wendo l y n Knap p

Liam Fitzgerald – Jesuit High School

by Ma ll ory Lin ds ly

54 Shop Talk

David W. Perlis – Perlis

48 Entertaining With Bev

55 Shop Talk

A Second Look: “The Greater Gatsby Affair” for the New Orleans Town Gardners, Inc. by b ev ch urch

50 With This Ring

Kirkwood – Reiss

by Ma ll ory Linds ly

52 Young Bloods

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Betsy Charron – New Orleans Street Exchange

by Lindsay Mac k

by Mire ll a Ca me r an

Anne Lynne Charbonnet – C. Collection

by Mire ll a Ca me r an

58 Snapshots

by C aro line Ma l o use

64 Nostalgia

Past Becomes Future: The International Trade Mart

by S ea le Pa t er so n

Volume 16 Issue 12

Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Beauty Columnist Cat Wall Aschaffenburg Society Columnist Shelby Westfeldt Associate Editors Haley Adams, Sarah Ravits Interns Elizabeth Heideman, Caroline Malouse Advertising Sales Manager Jill Varney (504) 830-7219, Jill@MyNewOrleans.com Account Executive Brittany Brady Sales Assistant Erin Maher Production/Web Manager Staci McCarty Production Designer Sarah George , Casey Hano Administration Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President/Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde Executive Assistant Kristi Ferrante Distribution Manager Christian Coombs Subscriptions Erin Duhe (504) 830-7231

A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC Printed in USA 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Ste. 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380

The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 2013 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for photos or artwork and assumes that all releases have been cleared upon submission to the magazine. St. Charles Avenue is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, La. 70005, (504) 828-1380. It is the policy of this magazine to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

6 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

on the web

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saintcharlesavenue.com & myneworleans.com

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Have Your Mags and Surf Them, Too We are proud to offer you the very best content, both printed and online. Renaissance Publishing offers you access to articles and images not just from St. Charles Avenue magazine, but from all of our print titles, as well as exclusive blogs and online columns. MyNewOrleans. com is your portal to all you need to know about lifestyle, dining, music, nightlife, homes, bridal information and more.

Visit us online, and be sure to check out our new look, as well as our award-winning blogs:

R Mondays: Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde, three-time winner of the Alex Waller Award for print journalism, provides weekly commentary in “The Editor’s Room,” named “Best Local Blog” by the Press Club of New Orleans.

R Two-for-One Thursdays: MyNewOrleans.com’s dynamic duo of food-and-wine bloggers, Tim McNally and Robert Peyton, sounds off every Thursday on the latest news in high times and fine dining.

R Fridays: Eve Kidd Crawford – award-winning Managing Editor for Louisiana Life, New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles and Acadiana Profile – writes about what it means to be a family in New Orleans.

R Every other Tuesday, St. Charles Avenue editor Morgan Packard authors a biweekly column on Uptown Life, including parties, charity fundraisers and more.

R Sign Up for our Electronic Newsletter Get the latest blogs, magazine content and calendar information delivered straight to your inbox!

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R Post a Comment to an Article Like what you’ve read? Share your insight in our online forum at SaintCharlesAvenue.com.

events

a note from bev

JUNE

Executive Director of Le Petit Thèâtre, Cassie Worley, and Dickie Brennan for the newly restored theater and Tableau restaurant, respectively.

The “Lagniappe” production of Nora and Delia Ephron’s Love, Loss and What I Wore will appear in July and seasonopener Lombardi will open in September. Visit LePetitTheatre. com for more information.

Tableau, which Dickie Brennan opened with partners Lauren Brennan Brower and Steve Pettus, serves “classic dishes revisited.” Visit TableauFrenchQuarter.com for more information.

If you’ve passed by where Camp Street meets Magazine Street lately, you’ve seen the tremendous building that’s going on at The National World War II Museum – what a shining jewel in our city! We are so proud to present our cover this month featuring the “2013 Whitney Bank Victory Ball” for the museum, featuring Mr. and Mrs. John Hairston and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Mestayer, co-chairs of the ball. The gala will be Friday, June 14, and you don’t want to miss it! The patron party begins at 5 p.m., and then from 7 on are dinner, dancing, dessert and more. People from all over the world support this museum, and we want to make sure that New Orleans is represented at this incredible fundraising effort.

Local support is so important!

Now that Mother’s Day is over, we’re ready to celebrate Father’s Day, so be sure to check out What’s Hot. You will find ideas for Dad from steaks to suits, and

ties that are anything but boring.

Of course, we all care about Dad, but our pets come next! We have a special section on “The Dog Days of Summer” that covers the latest in doggy trends, boarding and treats at local shops.

Now that school is over, our children will have more time to shop with us, so be sure to check out our “Children’s Chic” fashion spread that will give the kids in your life the hottest looks for back to school.

Jazz Fest and “Zoo-to-Do” are in the history books, and both were fabulous; kudos go to Olivia Manning who chaired “Zoo-To-Do” for her incredible job! It was their most successful ever, so thanks to everyone who worked so hard on this event.

If you missed Dr. Bob at Jazz Fest this year, please go see him at his studio just past the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts on Chartres Street. He has fabulous artwork, especially his “Be Nice or Leave” signs, which

are collected by people from all over the world – especially Mariah Carey. You don’t want to miss his impressive sculpture and designs, and his stories are incredible as well!

The Great Gatsby is showing, so check out my Entertaining column, which features a fundraiser called the “Greater Gatsby Affair!” I talked to Yvonne LaFleur, and she and a group of 10 women, dressed in Gatsby attire and hats, and went to the movie together! Wow; only in New Orleans do we have so much fun!

Make up a reason to have a party and have a great start to the summer! F

2 “Thin Mint Sprint 5K and 1 Mile Daisy Dash,” benefiting Girl Scouts Louisiana East, gsle. org 7 “Juleps in June,” benefiting The Pirate’s Alley Faulker Society, 524-2940 or Faulkhouse@aol.com 8, 22 & 29 “Junior Achievement 2013 Bowl-aThon,” 569-8657 8 “The O-Mazing Race presented by the Kohlmeyer Circle,” benefiting Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 539-9616 9 “Le Gala de la Bonne Vie,” benefiting National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana, 861-4500 12 “Season Preview Party,” benefiting The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane University, 865-5105 13 “Father of the Year,” benefiting American Diabetes Association, 889-0278 extension 6072 13 “Pause 4 Dinner (and Lunch!),” benefiting the Louisiana SPCA, 762-3307 14 “2013 Whitney Bank Victory Ball,” benefiting the National World War II Museum, 528-1944, extension 306 14 “Ladies in Red Gala,” benefiting Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans, 581-7032 14 “Spotlight on Success,” benefiting the March of Dimes, 836-2087 15 “Just Say YAYA Launch Party,” benefiting Young Aspirations/Young Artists, Inc., 208-8376 22 “Bourbon & Burlesque,” benefiting Contemporary Arts Center, 528-3800 24 “FORE Leadership Golf Tournament,” benefiting Girl Scouts Louisiana East, 733-8220

8 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

events submission If you would like your organization’s fundraising events to be listed in St. Charles Avenue’s Calendar of Events, please fill out this form and return to: St. Charles Avenue magazine 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 Attn: Morgan Packard fax 504/828-1385 or email: morgan@myneworleans.com

Organization name: Organization address: Contact name: Contact phone: Contact e-mail: Contact fax: Event name: Event address: Event date: Event time: Cost of event: Phone number for info. & tickets: Chairs and co-chairs:

Board members:

Honorees:

A brief description of event:

A brief description of your charity:

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 9

cruisin’the crescent We all learned the meaning of a “Bucket List” from Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson in 2007. Now almost everyone has a Bucket List, and it has adapted into so many different things.

You can have a Travel Bucket List, a Before I Have Kids Bucket List, a Food Bucket List even a City-Wide Bucket List – and what better city to have one than New Orleans!

The last was something I just heard about. My future sisterin-law, Emily, was in town for a bachelorette party, and I was delighted when she described the theme of the event: “Bucket List Bachelorette Party.” You see the bride had never been to New Orleans and always wanted to go, so she made a list of all the things she wanted to experience here.

Her No. 1 item was to go to Jazz Fest, so the date was decided.

Then, she contacted locals and researched bars, restaurants,

By Shelby Westfeldt

types of food, specialty drinks, artists and music, and from that the itinerary for her last weekend as a single woman was born. In three days these girls did it all: they saw Billy Joel at Jazz Fest; dined at both a Besh and Brennan restaurant; sipped Sazeracs, hurricanes and rum Ramseys; snacked on Lucky Dogs and soufflé potatoes; and managed to visit art galleries on Julia Street before dancing the night away on Frenchmen Street.

On Sunday, Emily came to stay with us and looked absolutely exhausted. As she described the weekend I couldn’t help but think of all the things we have around us that we sometimes take for granted – things that you can’t eat, drink or experience anywhere else in the world. So start brainstorming you own Bucket List for New Orleans and get out there and take advantage of our incredible backyard! F

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For over 186 years the historic Beauregard-Keyes House has graced the New Orleans Landscape with its unique presence. The “Evening to Benefit the Beauregard-Keyes House” is the annual fundraiser that helps ensure that such an irreplaceable landmark remains open and accessible for generations to come. Guests enjoyed delicious food donated by various restaurants, drinks including Ms. 1 Keyes’ signature champagne punch, live music and a silent auction.

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1. Executive Director Larry Schmidt, House Director Ella Camburnbeck, and President of the Board of Trustees Paul Haygood 2. Anne Redd, Andrew Hovert and board member Marilee Hovert

Raintree’s “Paint the Town Green” raised funds for its mission of improving lives of foster children and giving babies with disabilities an early start in independence; funding is also essential for Raintree House, a safe home for abused and neglected young girls. Raintree’s chairs and board and committee members – (seated) Executive Director LaShawna Scofield, Connie Kitchen, Merle Segura, Carolyn Landwerlin, Joan Ingram and Jamie Moreau and (standing) Kathy Singleton, Erin Crowley, Whitney Armentor, Board of Directors President Lana Duke, co-chair Cindy Palin, chair Debbie Alciatore, Christine Bondio and Debbie Guastella say that this year’s event raised more money than ever before!

Everyone showed up in their “Brightest Brights” to surprise Courtney Stumm for her 30th birthday. Her sisters, with the help of their parents, hosted the party at their family home. After she arrived at the party, the surprised birthday girl enjoyed dining on La Thai catering and Felipe’s mai tais. All the guests danced well into the evening in the Stumms’ living room to the music of Geaux Live DJs.

The NOMA Home Art Tour was held in the Garden District and featured six beautiful homes.

During the tour, which was co-chaired by Carol Hall and Pam Rogers, guests dined on a wonderful lunch at the featured Patron Home. A boutique with items from the Museum Gift Shop was also part of the tour.

Co-chairs Carol Hall and Pam Rogers

Sibyl, Rob, Courtney, Kit and Celie Stumm

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Heard something interesting for “cruisin’ the crescent?”

If so, please send it to: St. Charles Avenue 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, La. 70005 or email: Shelby@MyNewOrleans.com

}

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 11

skin deep

By Cat Wall Aschaffenburg

Facelift in a Box

Another mild cosmetic treatment that compares itself to a kind of facelift is the “home rejuvenation” system. Whether micro-dermabrasion, vibration or light, there are a variety of different companies and different technologies out there, each similar in that they all use an intensity level safe enough for home use. Some third-party research shows these to be effective in reducing fine lines, age spots, acne and scarring, while tightening and freshening the skin.

Facelift in a Needle

Nope, not Botox! Cosmetic acupuncture uses the healing properties of this traditional Chinese remedy for pain, disease and overall health, and applies it to the face. The insertion of tiny needles increases circulation to the face and stimulates collagen production, thereby eliminating fine lines and resulting in plump, healthy skin.

Liquid Facelift

Fancy a Lift?

Greek mythology tells the story of Emperor Tiberius who swam the Isle of Capri in search of the fountain of youth. Whether in tales or today, that’s a pretty drastic measure just to look good.

But I have to wonder are we truly that different than Tiberius in our quest? Alas, if only the emperor had lived long enough to reach modern times, he, too, would be afforded the huge number of choices we have today to tighten, freshen and age as gracefully as we prefer. However, I expect that even he would be perplexed at all the options we have to retain our youth. So, how do we know what may work best for us? First, always start with a board-certified plastic surgeon and/ or dermatologist; they’re knowledge-

able and experienced in helping you on your own personal journey toward the fountain of youth.

Facelift in a Jar

The mildest form of non-surgical facelift is really more of a misnomer than a valid candidate for facelift options. DMAE (dimethylethanolamine) is a skin-firming treatment that has become known as “the facelift in a jar.” Other facelift creams and powders containing highly concentrated solutions of amino acids, such as hexapeptide and alpha hydroxyl acid, can also be used to tighten skin and reduce fine lines. Some of these products can be applied at home, while only an aesthetician or dermatologist should handle others.

12 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

A liquid facelift is applied to dermal fillers such as Juvaderm, Restylane or Sculptra, which are hyaluronic acid fillers that plump the skin, fill deep wrinkles and can enhance aging lips. The fillers are injected in small quantities and may cause mild swelling, but should result in very little recovery time. Botox works by relaxing the muscles of the face, thereby reducing the appearance of frown lines and expression wrinkles.

Botox is popular and effective, with results that last up to four months.

Together Botox and fillers can certainly reduce or even eliminate wrinkles, plump skin and give it a tighter appearance.

Electrical Facelift

A microcurrent facelift delivers electrical stimulation to the muscles of the face to stimulate cell function and improve skin tone, reduce lines and wrinkles, improve circulation and skin exfoliation while reducing sun damage and cellulite. The treatment,

which usually consists of multiple one-hour sessions performed by a specialist, is also reported to improve lymphatic drainage and boost circulation and metabolism.

Radiofrequency Facelift

A very popular option these days is the use of heat to cause the collagen under the skin to contract, resulting in a skin-tightening effect.

The science is that radiofrequency energy heats the inner layers of the skin (fat and collagen) to tighten and rejuvenate the skin’s collagen structure. A major selling point of this is that the relatively painless treatment, which takes effect immediately, requires only one session. Thermage and Ultratherapy are the brands to look for here.

Laser Facelift

There are actually two types of laser facelifts – one of which is a surgical procedure, the other being the skintightening non-surgical technique.

The non-surgical laser facelift is similar to the radiofrequency facelift, except that it uses infrared light to heat the skin and tighten collagen structures. Titan is a well-known laser therapy treatment; Lux-IR is less so. Laser skin tightening generally requires up to six treatments for full effectiveness.

Surgical Facelift

A facelift can only be performed surgically; non-surgical rejuvenation treatments cannot achieve the same results, but may help delay the time at which a facelift becomes appropriate and complement the results of surgery. Facelift surgery is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try and fit any sort of ideal image.

From the mildest to the more advanced, these facelift options give you a choice of how you want to address the aging of your skin over time. No, they won’t give you eternal youth, but they can help you look and feel your best at any age. F

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 13

what’s hot

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By Caroline Malouse

Father’s Day

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It is finally time to treat the men in our life to something they deserve. Shopping for dad is a snap with these Father’s Day gifts. For fashion-forward fathers, Dads who love to dine and everyone in between, there’s something here to make his Father’s Day one to remember.

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1. Dads look dashing in Edward Armah’s suit accessories. The reversible bowties are custom handmade, and the fabric boutonnieres will stay bright and perky forever. Rubenstein’s, 102 St. Charles Ave., 581-6666, RubensteinsNewOrleans.com.

2. Let him unwrap this Samuelsohn wool blazer before dinner so he can be the most handsome man in the room. Its weight and color make it the “ultimate summer” jacket. M. Goldberg Clothier, 502 Leontine St., 891-1119, MGoldbergClothier.com.

14 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

3. Luxury sunglasses from Maui Jim can be a must-have for our sunny days. With polarized lenses and an unbreakable frame, they’re ideal for sporty dads on the move. Perlis Clothing, 6070 Magazine St., 895-8661; 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville (985) 674-1711; Perlis.com.

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4. Just because ties are the go-to Father’s Day gift doesn’t mean they have to be boring. NOLA Couture’s 100 percent silk ties are designed locally and inspired by New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. NOLA Couture, 2928 Magazine St., 319-5959, NolaCouture.com.

5 What is more perfect than custom-fitted clothing? Treat the special father in your life to a Luca Falcone custom suit and shirt, and throw in a gift card so he can pick up a little lagniappe to go with them. Luca Falcone Custom Clothiers, 2049 Magazine St., 309-5929, LFSuits.com.

6. It might be difficult for him to sit back and let someone else grill it, but a prime rib-eye or fillet from Robért’s Fresh Market is just the thing for a Father’s Day dinner at home. Robért’s offers a wide variety of prime meats, and a floral associate can even arrange a basket of choice meats. Robért Fresh Market, multiple local locations, RobertFreshMarket.com.

7. Goorin Bros.’s “Big John” will keep dad looking and feeling cool this summer. The genuine Panama straw fedora is hand woven in Ecuador, and its black band and neutral color go with every outfit. Goorin Bros.; 709 Royal St., 523-4287; 2127 Magazine St., 522-1890; GoorinBros.com.

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 15

on the menu

A Mean Mein Chef Chip Flanagan of Ralph’s on the Park’s Yaka Mein appetizer

16 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

pho to graphed by jeffery johns ton

recipe 4 ounces Yaka Mein broth (recipe below) 3/4 ounce Shiitake Mushrooms 1 1/2 ounces slow cooked pork belly 1 tablespoon cane glaze (recipe below) 1 egg 2 Tablespoons clarified butter 1 ounce fresh tagliatelle pasta 1/4 ounce green onions, thinly sliced Salt and pepper to taste Bring a pot of salted water to boil for the pasta. In a sauté pan over medium heat, sear the pork belly on both sides.

Once seared well, remove pan from heat and apply the cane glaze to the pork belly.

Put the cane-glazed pork belly back on low heat and cook until heated through and the glaze is reduced. (Be careful not to burn the glaze.) Set aside.

In a sauté pan over medium heat, add mushrooms to Yaka Mein broth and reduce by half, to 2 ounces.

While broth is reducing, heat up clarified butter in a small pan over medium heat. Crack egg into the clarified butter and fry sunny side up. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the white is just set but the yolk is still runny.

Add pasta to pot of boiling water and cook for about 1 minute. Remove pasta from pot and add it to the pan of reduced broth.

Plating: Remove noodles from broth and nest in a bowl.

Pour reduction over noodles.

Place cane-glazed pork on top of noodles. Next, place egg on top of pork belly. Garnish with a small drop of Sriracha on top of egg yolk and sprinkle the entire dish with green onions.

Cane Glaze 2 cups soy sauce 4 cups pepper jelly 2 24-ounce bottles of cane vinegar Combine soy and vinegar in a saucepot. Bring to a boil and

reduce. Stir in the pepper jelly.

Yaka Mein Broth Yields 1 gallon 1/2 gallon veal stock 1/2 gallon duck stock 2 pounds meat scraps 2 1/2 pounds pork neck bones 1/4 pound green onions 1/2 pound shiitake mushrooms, sliced 1 1/4 ounce garlic, crushed 2 each whole cloves 1/8 ounce star anise 3 1/2 ounces ginger, peeled 3 3/4 ounces yellow onions, peeled and cut in half 2 cups soy sauce 1/8 cup Sriracha 1/8 cup sweet soy sauce Salt to taste Spread neck bones out evenly on sheet pans and roast in an oven at 350 to 400 degrees, until roasted/ caramelized well – be careful not to burn.

While bones are roasting, place ginger and yellow and green onions on the grill and leave to char – be careful not to burn the green onions.

Using a wide, heavy bottomed pot on medium-high heat, hard sear all meat scraps until well caramelized. Sear the meat in batches and don’t overcrowd. Once all scraps have been seared, remove rendered fat from pot and deglaze with soy sauce. Place scraps on the side.

Place charred onions and ginger in a bowl covered in plastic wrap. Let set for 15 minutes. Wipe off as much char from onions as possible.

Combine all ingredients with both cold stocks into a large stockpot. Place on low heat.

Let the broth cook for at least 24 hours and strain. Serves 1 as an appetizer F

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Ralph’s on the Park 900 City Park Ave. 488-1000 RalphsOnThePark.com

} June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 17

By Gwendolyn Knapp

Coconut shrimp, oyster and pork belly baco from Ba Chi Canteen

Play On

New Orleans restaurants that aren’t afraid to play with their food.

Certain restaurants in town are known for their creative plays on traditional foods. These sorts of culinary surprises are as pleasing to diners as plot twists are to moviegoers. I have written before about SoBou’s Caprese Salad, a dessert made with panna cotta and sweet citrus, and also about Company Burger’s Corn Hog, that ever-sinful pork belly corn dog, both of which reveal not only the work of a savvy and creative chef, but a restaurant’s willingness to have fun. Here is a look at two additional restaurants aren’t afraid to play with their food.

Ba Chi Canteen is a new

Vietnamese restaurant on Maple Street, but it isn’t your average pho spot. The restaurant, which was opened in April by some of the family members who run Tan Dinh on the West Bank, is sort of like Tan Dinh’s cooler little brother. Here you’ll find bowls of perfectly cooked fries smothered in kim chi, thinly cut beef and spicy aioli.

Fried calamari is more eloquent here than most of its brethren around town, opting for a breading that’s light and peppery. Ba chi means “pork belly” in Vietnamese, and the restaurant doesn’t disappoint, highlighting the fattiest of meats all over the menu. The spring rolls

18 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Ba Chi Canteen | 7900 Maple St. | 373-5628 Restaurant August | 301 Tchoupitoulas St. | 299-9777 | RestaurantAugust.com Sucré | 3025 Magazine St. | 520-8311 | ShopSucre.com

(un-fried, some refer to them as summer rolls) are especially impressive filled with crisp, fatty pork belly, a perfect eclipse of the hard-to-stomach, dried out pork we’ve so often come to expect in these rice paper wrappers.

What truly shines here, among a menu of outstanding banh mi (from pork belly to vegan tofu options), and bowls of steaming pho, are baco, which are actually stuffed and steamed Bánh bao (the literal translation of which is “enveloping cake”) served like tacos. These thick, fluffy Vietnamese tacos are truly inspired, with the Bánh bao having a sweeter flavor than a real taco, holding everything from ba chi, to coconut curry shrimp with sweet potato and a basil aioli, and an epic creamy and spicy soft-shell crab with eel sauce and nori.

The baco come topped with a slaw-type medley of pickled carrot, daikon and herbs, unless of course, you order the dessert baco, which is piled high with ice cream and chocolate sauce. What makes the Ba Chi Canteen so different from other Vietnamese restaurants around is that it’s apparent the kitchen is having fun, delving into the realm of eccentric street food with smaller portions and crazier flavors.

The traditional Baumkuchen is a popular European dessert, but at Restaurant August, chef Michael Gulotta wraps the layered sponge cake around cured foie gras, accompanied by delicate cubes of champagne gelée and balsamic

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reduction for one of his most sought-after appetizers: the foie gras “three ways.” The appetizer also includes a more traditional terrine form and a foie gras mousse set atop Gulf tuna sashimi with puffed shrimp and strawberry marmalade.

It sounds rather outlandish, but in fact the creamy mousse, tender sashimi and sweet jam with the crunchy, salty shrimp, give the effect of a delightfully sweet breakfast or dessert, something you definitely don’t expect from foie gras and sashimi. In essence, the foie gras three ways alone is worth the trip to August, but the impeccable service, the seasonal tasting menu and an irreproachable air of timelessness make this restaurant one of the most outstanding in the country. That doesn’t mean they take themselves too seriously, though.

Take, for instance, the dessert menu. While pastry chef Kelly Fields is able to masterfully deconstruct classic banana pudding, turning the basic dessert into a textural dreamland with all things house-made, including the pudding and banana cake with shards of banana meringue that melt on the palate, fluffy toasted marshmallows, powdered peanut butter, caramelized bananas and Nilla wafer ice cream (she makes the nilla-like

wafers, too). It isn’t unusual for little plates of colorful bonbons, pralines and sugared gummy candies to also arrive at the table before you leave. Putting them in your pocket for later isn’t advised. F

At Sucré, a poor boy is dessert, and we’re not talking day-old bread turned into pudding. The gelato poor boy consists of three giant scoops of gelato and a heap of whipped cream between a pâte à choux shell that looks like pistolette, which is then topped with ribbons of chocolate and strawberry sauce.

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pho to graphed b y s teven hrone k

philanthropic fun

By Caroline Malouse

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1. Thomas and co-chair Cara Ogg with co-chair Holt and Gordon Kolb 2. Tommy Westervelt and Marilee Hovet 3. Mamie Gasperecz, Ellen Coleman, Andrew Hovet and Kristen Dry 4. Jerry and Melissa Steiner with Scott Bickford and Maury Rendeiro 5. Mary Funderburk, Barry Wiss and Courtney Murphy 6. Ann and Guy Cook with Julie and Leonard Isacks 7. Items up for auction on display.

How Sweet the Sound “Amazing Grapes” auctions fine wine to preserve history.

New Orleans would be lost without its history. Holt Kolb and Cara Ogg organized a spectacular night on March 1 to raise money for Hermann-Grima+Gallier Historic Houses. Hermann-Grima and Gallier are two geographically separate house museums, accredited by the American Association of Museums as one institution. They are dedicated to illustrating life in the “Golden Age” of New Orleans and also offer

“educational, entertainment and interactive programming” related to preservation in New Orleans.

Funds raised will benefit both the programming and the preservation of the houses.

The “Amazing Grapes Fine Wine and Entertaining Auction” was an elegant evening featuring a seated three-course dinner with wine pairings catered by Trinchero Family Estates. There was also a silent auction and an

isn’t the only way to support exciting live auction where guests Hermann-Grima+Gallier Historic won an original Hunt Slonem Houses and preservation in New oil painting, vacation packages, Orleans – anyone can become a Elizabeth Locke gold earrings member of the museums. F and, of course, bottles of wine.

The main event was preceded by a patron party with passed hors event at a glance d’oeuvres and What: “Amazing Grapes Fine Wine champagne, and and Entertaining Auction,” benefiting a patron auction Hermann-Grima+Gallier Historic Houses board.

When: Friday, March 1 The fundraiser

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philanthropic fun

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2 1. Co-chairs Jeanette Slakey and Joey Brown with Director Susan Taylor 2. Susan Haltom, Tim Trapolin and NOMA Volunteer Committee chair Caroline Calhoun 3. Brooke Minto, Daryl Byrd and Carol Short 4. Tara Guérard and Garden Study Club president Kate Werner 5. Louisette Brown, George Dunbar and Holley Haag 6. Some of the tempting bites on display.

7. A view of the main hall from above.

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Steel Magnolias Bloom

New Orleans Museum of Art’s “Art in Bloom” blossoms in its 25th year.

This year’s “Art in Bloom” event, “Celebrating Steel Magnolias,” kicked off on March 20 with a patron party at the New Orleans Museum of Art. The 25th annual fundraiser acknowledged and showcased the “elegance, grace, beauty and strength” of Southern women.

Joey Brown and Jeanette Slakey chaired the event, the proceeds of which will support the projects of the Garden Study Club of New Orleans, including the New Orleans Botanical Gardens, Beauregard-Keyes House, Lazarus

House and Longue Vue Gardens, as well as educational programs and exhibitions at NOMA. Patrons got a chance to preview the event’s exhibits while dining on local delicacies from Galatoire’s, Whole Foods, Muriels, Arnaud’s, The Pelican Club, Rum House and Catering D’Orleans, among many others. Guests bid on silent auction items including unique works of art by some of the most region’s most gifted artists, such as Tim Trapolin’s “Hot Ginger and Dynamite,” a Steel Magnolia Chandelier by Luis Colmenares and sterling silver

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pearl-studded stick dangle earrings from Mignon Faget.

Art in Bloom showcased more than 75 exhibitors over five days, among them floral designers, garden clubs and artists. Susan Haltom, author and garden historian, lectured about the historic restoration of a real Steel Magnolia, Eudora Welty’s mother’s garden. Event planner and author Tara Guérard and NOLA Flora designer Angela Darrah gave a demonstration on floral

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arrangements for entertaining, and Saks Fifth Avenue hosted a catered lunch and fashion show at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters.

Local actors even gave a staged reading of Robert Harling’s play Steel Magnolias. F

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What: “Art in Bloom Patron Party,” benefiting New Orleans Museum of Art and Garden Study Club of New Orleans When: Wednesday, March 20 Where: New Orleans Museum of Art

Photogra p hed by STEVEN HRONEK

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philanthropic fun

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4 1. Co-chairs Andrew and Betsey Todd and Christy and Sean Kane 2. David and Dottie Haydel 3. Children’s Hospital CEO Steve and Patty Worley with hospital board president Whit Huguley 4. Auction co-chairs Kristen Koppel and Amy Robertson 5. Children’s Hospital CFO Greg Feirn, decorations chairwoman Lisa Happoldt and ball honoree Dr. Andrew King 6. Doctors Robin English, Costa Dimitriades and Victoria Dimitriades 7. The packed event offered many local delicacies.

Visions of History

“Sugarplum Ball” celebrates a King and benefits Children’s Hospital’s Autism Center.

A bygone New Orleans era was recreated on March 8 at Children’s Hospital’s “Sugarplum Ball.” The Old Ursuline Convent was the setting for more than 1,000 patrons to experience “Midnight in Paris,” chaired by Betsey and Andrew Todd, and Christy and Sean Kane, as well as decorations chair Lisa Happoldt.

The convent, filled with many artifacts originating in France, was open for guests to explore.

The ball honored Children’s

Hospital Orthopedic Surgeon Andrew King, who has dedicated his career to the care of children with orthopedic issues. Proceeds will benefit the Autism Center at Children’s Hospital, which works to improve the quality of life of children with autism and their families.

Paris came alive with a French market featuring flowers, produce and baguettes, created by Happoldt, and guests dined on Galatoire’s turtle soup, Domenica’s

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meatballs and polenta, Chophouse New Orleans’ crab bisque and Arnaud’s Shrimp Arnaud. Drago’s served charbroiled oysters and Abita beer from a customized fire truck. Haydel’s Bakery designed a 4-foot-tall Eiffel Tower cake surrounded by French pastries.

Phat Hat kept things swinging with their blues and R&B dance music from decades past.

The silent auction items also echoed the Parisian theme.

Wirthmore Antiques donated an 18th-century French desk for bidding, and an elaborately decorated mirror by artist Frances Swigart-Steg, donated in memory of the artist’s autistic daughter, was also up for bidding. F

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event at a glance What: “Sugarplum Ball,” benefiting Children’s Hospital When: Friday, March 8 Where: Old Ursuline Convent

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philanthropic fun

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4 1. Co-chairs Kimberly Zibilich, Helen Smith and Jackie Palumbo 2. Mike and Nancy Marsiglia with Bryan Batt 3. Live auctioneers Mark Romig and Juli Miller Hart 4.

Robin Borne, Leigh Thorpe and Walt Navoy 5. Keith Treuting, Mary Johnson, Karen DeBlieux and Robert Taylor 6. The theme “Cabana Nights” was represented across the event. 7. Frenchy begins his live painting that was later a top-selling item in the live auction.

Beating the Heat

“Lark in the Park” brings “Cabana Nights” to City Park.

One Friday night in March was hotter than a New Orleans summer day. On March 15, “Lark in the Park,” this year themed “Cabana Nights,” threw back to a time when tobacco ruled Louisiana trade and Latin music was hip.

Friends of City Park’s (FOCP) annual bash was chaired by Jackie Palumbo, Helen Read Smith and Kimberly Zibilich. Proceeds will underwrite the Splash Park, the newest addition to City Park, and help build a Cabana Plaza with furnished cabana tents available for events. City Park CEO, Dr. Robert Becker, says the plaza will provide

a cool respite on sweltering days and generate much needed revenue for City Park.

More than 85 percent of the park’s funds are self-generated, and Palumbo says that those who give can see exactly where their money goes. Funds raised

by FOCP have helped build the miniature golf courses and renovate the Peristyle, Popp Fountain and Storyland, among many other attractions.

Peggy McCranie chaired the patron party at the Lord & Taylor/ Capital One Rose Garden, where Julio & Cesar’s live Latin music set

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the mood for a champagne reception and passed hors d’oeuvres by Little Gem Saloon.

The main event featured brass funk band Bonerama and food from 40 of New Orleans’ top restaurants.

Republic National Distributing Company created a rum-based signature drink called the “Cabana Breeze.” VIP guests chilled in the Copa Club Lounge, where they enjoyed hors d’oeuvres by GW Fins and hand-rolled cigars.

A thrilling live auction sold 13 unique packages. The three top-selling items were a one-of-kind painting by

Frenchy; a Fun in the Sun Family Package; and New Year New You, a personal pampering and makeover deal.

FOCP was founded in 1979 to improve the quality of the park and its facilities. The miniature golf course will be opening this year. F

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What: “Lark in the Park,” benefiting Friends of City Park When: Friday, March 15 Where: New Orleans Botanical Garden

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philanthropic fun

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4 1. Leah Tubbs, Averil Oberhelman and Beth Ellis 2. William and Meg Baldwin with Emily and Chris Schneider 3. Will Hales and Geneva and Al Melillo 4. Joe Jones with Edie and David Darragh

River Revelry

Preservation Resource Center celebrates 36 years of “Julia Jump.”

The fabled architecture of New Orleans would be lost to time if not for the efforts of local organizations, including the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans. Their annual “Julia Jump” is a key player in the fundraising game, helping the PRC restore nearly 1,400 properties citywide since its inception in 1974. The organization also runs outreach and advocacy programs that assist individuals in their own renovation efforts.

Joy Grace and Jill Pipes chaired the 36th anniversary “Julia Jump,”

which was themed “Revelry on the River,” at Mardi Gras World East Bank. Lead sponsors Chevron, Bisso Towboat Co., Inc. and Fidelis Continental LLC/Mr. & Mrs. H. Elder Brown Jr. with help from Dawn Services, Goldring Family Foundation, IBERIABANK, New Orleans Saints and Whitney Bank, made the event possible.

Louisiana Spice set the mood for guests to nosh on delectable treats from 22 local restaurants that served up iconic dishes: crawfish etouffée, shrimp remoulade, chicken and sausage jambalaya,

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the main event featured live music cochon de lait and hand from The Big Easy Brass Band and crafted chocolates and pralines. a sneak preview of the auction.

Wellington & Co. donated a stunning diamond pendant, valued The PRC is dedicated to the promotion of preservation, at $5,500, for a riveting raffle. The restoration and revitalization of silent auction saw a bevy of items New Orleans’ historic architecture totaling over $100,000 to tickle and neighborhoods. F the fancy of any guest, including a Vespa scooter, Caribbean vacations, Mardi Gras parade rides, more than event at a glance 40 pieces of art, sports What: “Julia Jump,” benefiting memorabilia, restaurant Preservation Resource Center of and cocktail packages and New Orleans fly fishing packages. The When: Friday, March 15 Where: Mardi Gras World East Bank patron party right before

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philanthropic fun

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1. Joe Exnicios, Eric Goebel, Kenny Martinez and Gary Lorio 2. Ryan, Stephanie and Ricky Becnel 3. Sidney Thornton, Norwood Thornton and Linda Westfeldt 4. Rick Doskey, Mili Doskey, John Reliford, John Whittemore

Inspired Southern Seafood

“Cajun Night” raises funds for educational services before its “Fun Shoot.”

Southern seafood was the belle of the ball at Chartwell Center’s “Cajun Night” on March 1. Sidney and Norwood Thornton hosted the dinner at their home in anticipation of the Sporting Clays Classic Fun Shoot the following day. “Cajun Night” is the main fundraiser for the Chartwell Center, which provides educational services to people, age 3 to 21, with autism and related disorders. They

follow established recommended practices and their mission is to allow those they serve to realize their full potential and function with maximum independence.

The casual cocktail and dinner party was held beneath a tent outside the Thorntons’ home. Benz Caterers, in conjunction with T.A. Down Brokerage, LLC provided a meal of southern seafood and gumbo appropriate for the Lenten season. These cozy dishes warmed

guests on the brisk March night.

Clay shoot participants mingled and made game plans, and those not participating in the shoot got an opportunity to socialize as musician Paul Daily set the tone for the evening.

Norwood Thornton, with Puglia’s Sporting Goods, donated a Beretta A400 Xtreme shotgun to be raffled off. Chartwell student Sami el Dahr was

given the honor of choosing the raffle winner and saw Charles Perez going home with this fabulous prize. F

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What: “Cajun Night,” benefiting the Chartwell Center When: Friday, March 1 Where: Home of Sidney and Norwood Thornton

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philanthropic fun

By Caroline Malouse

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1. Ronnie Burns, Laverne Saulny, Sister Bonnie Hoffman and Sheila Burns 2. Michael Griffin, Dr. Robert Marier, Sharon Alexis and Clarence Adams 3. Co-chairs Holley Haag and Julio Rodriguez with Sister Ellen Kron and Dr. Karen DeSalvo 4. Scottie and Yvette Patton with Stephanie and Terrance Osborne

Promise Makers

Daughters of Charity Services of New Orleans honors health care providers.

Health care champions of New Orleans were honored at Daughters of Charity Services of New Orleans’ (DCSNO) second annual “Keeping Our Promises Gala.” First NBC Bank hosted the March 9 event, co-chaired by Holley Haag and Julio Rodriguez.

Sally-Ann Roberts of WWL-TV/ Channel 4 emceed the Inspired Cross Awards Presentation, which praises the work of individuals and organizations that work with DCSNO to “keep its promises” to provide health care for those in

need. DCSNO and its partners aim to transform health care through innovation and courage. This year’s recipients were Clarence Adams Sr. of Ozanam Inn, Sharon Alexis of The Salvation Army and Dr. Robert Marier of the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners.

Tanya Boutte and Friends with Ka-Nection Band played live music while guests dined on delicious food from The Kitchen and cocktails by Glazer’s of Louisiana. Guests dined on iconic fare such as jambalaya and bread

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pudding. A silent auction included VIP passes to Voodoo Fest and a Saks Fifth Avenue “Make-up and Champagne Party.” DCSNO also raffled off a trip for two to Chicago. The Kitchen catered the prior patron party, and Tanya Boutte and Friends entertained.

The 2013 Creativity Sponsors included Ascension Health, Curry & Friend PLC, First NBC Bank, and LaCare. Reverence Sponsors included The Fisher Consulting Group and Liberty Bank.

In addition to honoring

healthcare advocates, the gala raised funds to support DCSNO’s mission to improve the health status of the community and provide high quality, compassionate care for all – the insured, underinsured and uninsured. F

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What: “Keeping Our Promises Gala,” benefiting Daughters of Charity Services of New Orleans When: Saturday, March 9 Where: First NBC Bank

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philanthropic fun

By Caroline Malouse

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1. Albert Carey Jr., Jef Hal-Flavin, executive director Paul J. Willis, David Kaplan and board president Janet Daley Duval 2. Charlotte Thomas, Dr. Howard Russell and Lydia Ozenberger 3.

Kathy and Robert Zetzmann with board member Mary Myrick Langlois 4. Judy and Allain Andry with board member Patricia Mason

Only a Paper Moon

The Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival celebrates the Williams Songbook.

The Tennessee Williams/ New Orleans Literary Festival kicked off this year with “A Tennessee Williams Songbook: Only a Paper Moon,” a performance of the pop songs Williams chose for his plays compiled by David Kaplan, curator of the Provincetown Tennessee Williams Theater Festival.

Tony-nominated Broadway performer Alison Fraser sang the hits, including “If I Didn’t Care” and “Sweet Leilani,” as well as tunes by Noel Coward and Duke Ellington. Fraser wove country-

western ballads, Mississippi blues and Italian romance with monologues from Williams’ plays.

Pianist Allison Leyton-Brown arranged the music and played along with J. Walter Hawkes, John Eubanks, James Singleton, Jason Mingledorff, Bobby Campo and Wayne Maureau.

With the generous support of Albert Carey Jr., the event was sponsored by Provincetown Tennessee Williams Theater Festival. Hendrick’s Gin and Dickie Brennan’s Tableau Restaurant provided local libations for guests.

actors and musicians to the city, The Tennessee Williams/New while also providing professional Orleans Literary Festival serves the writing education to area students community through educational, and supporting year-round literary theatrical, literary and musical programs in the community. The programs; nurtures, supports and five-day event creates a total economic showcases regional, national and international writers, actors, musicians impact of 1 million dollars. F and other artists; and honors the creative genius of Tennessee event at a glance Williams, who What: “A Tennessee Williams Songbook: considered this city Only a Paper Moon,” benefiting the Tennessee his spiritual home.

Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival Every year, When: Wednesday, March 20 the festival Where: Old U.S. Mint brings authors,

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philanthropic fun

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1. Co-founder and CEO Tim and Jenny Williamson with host James Carville and Mary Hines and chairman Bill Hines 2.

Mark Romig, Rae Lynn Tammariello Loop and David Darragh 3. Brett and Lovey Wakefield with Joe McMenemon and Brendan Finke 4. Shawn Barney, Ivy Carter, Ginny Wise and COO Kevin Wilkins

A Week to Celebrate New Ideas The entrepreneurial spirit thrives in New Orleans.

New Orleans is widely recognized as one of the best cities for professionals, thanks to an amazing support system. In March, Idea Village’s “New Orleans Entrepreneur Week” “celebrates and supports the network of talent that has enabled NOLA to become a hub of entrepreneurship and innovation.” The week is just the finale of Idea Village’s Entrepreneur Season, which is an innovative platform comprised of educational programming, strategic consulting and competitions to grow the entrepreneurial

community in New Orleans. The nine-month season raises money to carry out Idea Village’s mission to identify, support and retain entrepreneurial talent in New Orleans.

“Entrepreneur Week’s Opening Celebration” was held at the home of James Carville and Mary Matlin.

Local a capella group Jay-Ray & Gee heralded guests’ arrival. Acme Oyster House was generous enough to sponsor dinner, a raw oyster bar along with fried seafood and other classic dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya and shrimp étouffée.

Glazer’s sponsored specialty Maker’s

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New Orleans startups through 155 Mark drinks and wine, and NOLA innovative events. “Entrepreneur Brewing Company provided beer.

Week” concluded with “The Big James Carville, Bill Hines and Tim Williamson, co-founder and CEO of Idea,” the nation’s largest crowdsourced investor pitch where The Idea Village, spoke to guests. more than 1,700 people awarded Though this is just their fifth $140,050 in startup funds to 15 year, the 2013 season engaged new ventures. F over 3,000 of the nation’s most innovative corporations, business event at a glance leaders, investors, What: “Entrepreneur Week Opening entrepreneurs Celebration,” benefiting Idea Village and MBAs to When: Saturday, March 16 invest a total of Where: The home of James Carville $3.28 million in and Mary Matlin resources to 978

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philanthropic fun

by Elizabeth Heideman

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1. Chefs Donald Link, Stephen Stryjewski and Ryan Prewitt 2. Founders Becker Hall and René Louapre 3. Board member Jennifer Bond, Neal Bodenheimer, Kirk Estopinal and Nick Detrich 4. Michael and Kristin Shannon

Cracklins for a Cure

“Hogs for the Cause” helps children diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer.

Childhood friends Becker Hall and René Louapre organized their first pork cook-off simply as a way to entertain family and friends – and then they met Ben Sarrat Jr., a little boy whose courage in the face of brain cancer inspired the duo to convert their cook-off into a message of hope.

Today, “Hogs for the Cause” is a two-day outdoor festival with live music and a barbecue challenge with more than 80 teams competing. This March in City

Park, it raised over $700,000 for families nationwide.

2013 “Hogs for the Cause” launched with a Southern Asado, a traditional outdoor feast where the main meal is cooked entirely over an open fire. The evening also featured a raw bar, silent auction, champagne and “hogtails,” specially crafted cocktails that were created exclusively for the benefit. Alex Layfield and Jessica Ibert graciously co-chaired the auction, whose lavish prizes

included a Saints tailgating party for 20 people catered by local “top chefs” and a Lake Martin getaway for four, including horseback riding, boating and a championship golf course.

On Saturday, March 22, festivalgoers enjoyed an all-day party with live music performed by the Rebirth Brass Band, The Apache Relay and other nationally renowned acts. The barbecue lineup was equally impressive, with categories such as ribs, whole hog

and “porkpourri.” Lamb and other mouth-watering meats were also prepared Asado style. James Beard Outstanding Chef finalists Donald Link and Sean Brock were among the celebrity chefs in attendance. F

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What: “Hogs for the Cause” When: March 22-23 Where: Festival Grounds at City Park

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playing it cool

Children’s chic just in time for back to school

By Lisa Tudor Photographed by Theresa Cassagne

From traditional looks for the play-school set to contemporary kids looks with designer labels, New Orleans moms need go no further than Magazine Street, Metairie Road and the Riverbend to find hot looks for tots.

Hartstrings raincoat at Banbury Cross over Sam and Sydney print sundress at Orient Expressed.

Seersucker sailboat dress with red rickrack trim at Orient Expressed.

Cotton Kids boat print sundress edged in navy grosgrain at Banbury Cross.

Desigual Life is Fantastic tank and ruffled eyelet skirt with button belt, all at Angelique Kids.

Splendid stripe and solid ruffle tuniclegging set at B Kids.

Toobydoo striped cotton sundress at B Kids.

Desigual butterfly garden top and short-skirt separates, both at Angelique Kids.

Yellow Velcro bowtie, E-Land cotton vest and Bailey Boys seersucker button-down with Europa linen pants, all at Banbury Cross.

Janie and Jack pinpoint oxford shirt over Polo navy ringer tee, both at Swap for Kids; Joe’s Brixton straight and narrow jeans at B Kids.

Fore!! reverse pocket striped T-shirt and companion seersucker shorts at Angelique Kids.

Sources Angelique Kids 5519 Magazine St. 899-8992 AngeliqueKids.com Banbury Cross 100 Atherton Drive Metairie 837-0447 BanburyCrossOnline.com B Kids 115 Metairie Road Suite B Metairie 301-2954 Orient Expressed 3905 Magazine St. 899-3060 OrientExpressed.com Swap for Kids 7722 Maple St. 218-5996 SwapForKids.com

Southern Marsh Pompano T-shirt over Toobydoo cotton shorts, both at B Kids.

Siaomimi dot-stripe cotton shirt and linen drawstring tick-stripe shorts, both at Angelique Kids.

Toobydoo striped oxford and checkered shorts with deep-sea fish T-shirt by tea, all at B Kids.

Classic striped pajamas at Banbury Cross.

Six local dog-friendly businesses divulge the latest pet trends.

By Kelcy Wilburn Photographed by Cheryl Gerber 44 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

the dog days of summer T

he dog days of summer are upon us, and the dogs aren’t complaining!

New Orleans is no doubt a dog-friendly city, and with a variety of pet-centric boutiques, day cares and events, dog lovers in this town have it made. For growing trends in pet services and products, we’ve turned to local experts for the latest in all things dog related. Unleash the love this summer with some of the following treats for both you and your furry friend.

Diane Lundeen, owner of Petcetera (3205 Magazine St., 269-8711, PetceteraNewOrleans. com), sees a growing a trend in the world of weddings, where often the “best man” may be substituted for “man’s best friend.”

“I have outfitted more brides’ dogs and grooms’ dogs than ever before in my life,” says Lundeen, who offers doggy tuxes, bowties and other wedding garb for canines. “We’ve been doing attire for a while, but this adds a new dimension. It’s fun for me because I make a lot of the stuff – custom patterns and pieces, such as bowties to match cummerbunds.”

In connection with wedding outfits, Lundeen has also seen a rise in wedding cakes made especially for the participating pup. A selection of cake designs includes multi-tiered circular, heart-shaped or bone-shaped cakes made with human-grade products based on the dog’s diet and any present food allergies.

A full-service pet boutique, Petcetera offers grooming along with numerous other services and products, and a new self-serve tub for grooming has proven useful for budgetconscious locals.

“We have an old claw-foot tub in which you can safely and gently restrain the dog, and it’s less stressful for the dog, who’s eyelevel,” says Lundeen. “You’re not bending over your tub Jefferson Feed Pet & Garden Center

SCPA

or ruining your bathroom with hair. We offer a gentle spray hose, apron and towels, and we clean up the mess so you don’t have to.”

Lynn Morvant of Jefferson Feed Pet & Garden Center (4421 Jefferson Highway, 733-8572, JeffFeed. com) has begun offering a new and uniquely

southern treat for dogs. With a wetlandssaving mission, Marsh Dog aims to create a market for the lean, high-quality meat of nutria – the semi-aquatic mammal whose invasive species has endangered Louisiana’s critical marsh.

“Marsh Dog treats are made in Baton Rouge and are ecologically correct.

We’ve been selling them for about a year now and dogs love them,” says Morvant. The popular new nutria treats ring in at $7.99 and have grown in popularity since hitting the market. The all-natural treats use local ingredients and earned Marsh Dog the Conservation Business of the Year award in the Governor’s Conservation Achievement Recognition program.

In addition to pet supplies and grooming services, Jefferson Feed’s weekly adoptions continue to be popular on Saturdays. “Adoptions are big here,” says

Morvant. “We partner with local groups every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and then we also keep three to four dogs and around 20 cats from the Jefferson SPCA on hand for adoptions during the week.

In addition to their Jefferson Store, Jefferson Feed also operates the Neighborhood Pet Market (488-8118, NeighborhoodPetMarket.com) in Mid-City, which will soon be moving into a new and larger building across the street at 231 N. Carrollton Ave. More than doubling in square footage, the move will bring gardening supplies and other items the store hasn’t been able to offer, including small pets and a large aquarium section. Additionally, the new Jefferson Feed location will partner with Pet Care Center, offering a full-service neighborhood veterinarian.

“We’ll move from the Neighborhood name to Jefferson Feed, and we’ll be able to offer soil, mulch and garden supply – everything for your pet and your garden,” says Morvant.

The summer grand opening has yet to be set, but customers and neighbors are welcome to visit the website or like Jefferson Feed on Facebook for updates on the move and more information about available products such as the more than 20 brands of natural and premium pet foods offered.

Whether in the home or away, pet day and night care continue to afford pet owners and their dogs piece of mind with services such as day care, boarding, walking, playing and

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training. Owners with long workdays, guilt about infrequent walks, high-energy or anxious dogs have found comfort in businesses like Camp Bow Wow (2731 Tchoupitoulas St., 891-DOGS (3647), CampBowWow.com/neworleans), who

offer a variety of services for those on the go.

Described by Camp Director Deb Lunsford as a “true camp” with games, activities and general four-legged fun, Camp Bow Wow offers early drop-off and late pick-up, allowing clients to focus on their daily routine while Fido plays with Certified Camp Counselors® and his or her favorite friends.

Camp Bow Wow also offers in-home services such as their Home Buddies program.

Offering pet sitting, dog walking, pet waste removal/pooper scooper services and more in both Orleans and Jefferson parishes, Home Buddies is perfect for the dog that prefers its own environment. Additionally, Bow Wow Behavior Buddies is Camp Bow Wow’s premier dog behavior and training program created to help you modify your canine player’s behavior issues, teach a new puppy the game or make an already good dog an impressive MVP. Offering daycare, boarding and grooming services Uptown, Canine Connection (4920 Tchoupitoulas St., 218-4098, CanineConnectionNola. com) boasts large suites with outdoor patios,

available cage-free boarding, cat condos, curbside drop-off, doggie swimming pools,

Petcetera

playrooms, numerous outdoor areas and even coffee and internet for owners. Canine Connection “keeps your pet at play while you’re away” and offers 24-hour on-site supervision and webcams for added security and peace of mind. Birthday parties and play-area rentals allow pet owners the ability to join in the fun. The facility houses Canine Culture in the front of the building, the company’s doc-centric retail store, which Camp Bow Wow

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supplies everything from Saints and Louisiana State University dog gear to all-natural food and treats.

This October, the Louisiana SPCA (1700 Mardi Gras Blvd., 368-5191, la-spca.org) will celebrate its 125th birthday in New Orleans. The oldest animal welfare organization in the state, the LA/ SPCA provides care and basic medical services for thousands of homeless and unwanted animals each year. Upcoming summer fundraisers and events include “Pause 4 Dinner (and Lunch!)” on Thursday, June 13, and their annual fashion show, “Alegria,” on Saturday, August 17.

For the first time, proceeds from the popular dining-out fundraiser “Pause 4 Dinner (and Lunch!)” will include the lunch hours at participating restaurants, where 20 percent of proceeds will go directly to the LA/SPCA. A long list of restaurants includes a diverse range of eateries in practically every corner of the metro area. From casual burger and dog joints to romantic fine-dining bistros, area restaurants allow you to indulge for a great cause.

On August 17, fashion takes over Generations Hall as part of “Alegria,” a fashion-centric fundraiser complete with a fashion designer show and competition, a silent auction, specialty cocktails, local celebrities and more.

For tickets and table sponsorships to “Alegria” and for a list of participating restaurants in “Pause 4 Dinner (and Lunch!),” visit the LA/SPCA website. Events like these prove that the dog days of summer aren’t just for dogs; you can have fun, too. F

bev entertaining

By bev church

A Second Look

“The Greater Gatsby Affair” for the New Orleans Town Gardeners, Inc. The New Orleans Town Gardeners, Inc., a member of the Garden Club of America, held “The Greater Gatsby Affair” on Friday, April 12, at Bill and Mary Hines’ spectacular home and garden.

All proceeds benefited the gardens at Latter Library, The Edible Schoolyards at Samuel J. Green School, Langston

Hughes Academy Charter Schools and ongoing projects at City Park. Our garden club held “The Great Gatsby Affair” seven years ago, and it was such a success that chairwomen Ashley Bright and Helen Butcher decided to do it again!

Guests arrived in Gatsbyinspired or cocktail attire

and were treated to fabulous cocktails, dinner and an “over the top” auction which included vacation homes, golf outings, dinners in members’ homes and artwork by Newt Reynolds, Karen Laborde and Cleland Powell. Ralph Brennan created the menu and artist Katie Rafferty painted the artwork for the

invitation. Tina Kern and Virginia White adorned the tables with cherub garden statues, roses in silver mint julep cups and hurricane globes with pillar candles accented with ivy. Auctioneer Ruthie Winston kept the crowd bidding high, and more than $100,000 was raised in one night! F Linda Bjork photographs

48 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Clockwise from left: (seated) Ashley Bright, Barbara Bush, Mary Hines, Kathy Eastman. and (seated) Helen Butcher

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 49

with this ring

By Mallory Lindsly

Kirkwood – Reiss Sarah Ann Kirkwood and Crutcher Eaves Reiss met at the University of Virginia while earning their undergraduate degrees. Sarah was on the varsity volleyball team while Crutcher was on the football team. The two were friends and began dating while attending a graduate business program at the McIntire School of Commerce at UVA. In August 2012, Crutcher took Sarah on a skydiving day trip in New Jersey. Crutcher landed before Sarah did, and he was waiting for her to touch down so he could pop the question. Sarah ran over to Crutcher so excited from the jump, and she wasn’t expecting Crutcher to drop down to one knee and propose. Of course Sarah immediately said “yes!”

After the reception, Crutcher and Sarah spent a week at the Viceroy resort in Anguilla. The couple resides in Manhattan, N.Y., where Crutcher is an associate credit analyst at J.P. Morgan. Sarah attends the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and coaches for the New York University volleyball program. F

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Bride: Sarah Ann Kirkwood Groom: Crutcher Eaves Reiss Bride’s parents: Mr. and Mrs. Peter Thomas Kirkwood Groom’s parents: Mr. and Mr. James Joseph Reiss Jr. Date of wedding: March 16, 2013 Ceremony location: Outdoor Courtyard at the Don CeSar Resort in St. Pete Beach, Fla. Reception location: Main Ballroom of the Don CeSar Resort Wedding planners: Laura Walsh Events and One Fine Day Celebrant: Rev. Dr. John Turley DeBevoise Ceremony music: The Dillingham Quartet Wedding gown: Danielle Caprese beaded lace gown featuring a sweetheart neckline and chapel train Maids of honor: Allison Lind Kirkwood and Emily Fay Kirkwood Bridesmaids: Lady Reiss Fuller, Taylor Carlyle Russo, Michelle Kathleen Ellison, Blair Northen Williamson, Alisha Louise McCarthy and Alyssa Evans Getzel Bridesmaids’ dresses: Amsale French blue floor-length dress of silk crinkle chiffon Flower girl: Raclynn Jo Byrd Bevis Ring bearers: James Joseph Reiss IV and James Dunton Fuller Groom’s attire: Hugo Boss black tuxedo with black bow-tie and cummerbund Best man: Baldwin Richard Justice Groomsmen: James Joseph Reiss III, Cole Bishop Halpern, Remington Ralph Barclay Below, Jonathan Bush deLaureal, Michael Thomas Santi, Andrew Lygon Dewey and John Matthew Phillips Greeters: Tatum Lady Reiss and Brooke Coleman Reiss Groomsmen’s attire: Tuxedos with black bow-ties and cummerbunds Rings: Adler’s Florist: Designer Ian Prosser with Botanica Favor: A donation to The Humane Society of Tampa Bay, Fla., to honor Penny Lane, their shelter dog.

Caterer: Courtney Blount, Director of Catering and Conference Management, Don CeSar Resort Wedding and groom’s cakes: The Cake Zone Photographer: Amy Pezzicara of Pezz Photo Videographer: Hearts Video Hair: Brian David Daigle and Lauren Hurlesss Music: Ceremony: Dillingham String Quartet, Reception: Groovetown June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 51

young bloods

By Lindsay Mack

Betsy Charron Co-founder, New Orleans Street Exchange

Would you like to read about New Orleans from a totally new perspective, help give homeless persons a “hand-up” as micropreneurs and promote literacy and social awareness in the city? All of this can be accomplished for the small price of a newspaper. New Orleans’ newest publication, The Exchange, is a street paper designed to empower the city’s homeless population. Just launched in February 2013, this startup is already changing the way that New Orleanians interact with the city’s homeless individuals.

After reading Tactics of Hope by Paula Mathieu, Betsy Charron was inspired to learn more about the culture of street papers. Newspapers that are sold by homeless individuals, street papers typically feature articles that shed light upon the unique plight of the homeless. In October 2011, Charron attended a street paper conference, and she soon decided to launch the first (and only) street paper for New Orleans.

The Exchange, published quarterly, features articles that pertain to the city’s homeless population, as well as stories about service organizations, local environmental news and artistic and cultural movements. Each vendor is asked to purchase the papers for a nominal fee and then sell them to locals, thereby earning an income. In this transaction, everyone wins: the paper’s contributors get a venue for expression, the vendors earn an income and interact with potential customers throughout the city and the readers learn about the marginalized homeless population.

According to Charron, the most rewarding aspect of her job comes from her interaction with the vendors. The sellers are positive about their jobs, and the customers have begun to recognize their local vendors. In fact, Charron would like to make the newspaper a monthly publication in order to increase this success.

As a new startup, The Exchange is still facing some challenges. The company needs more “hands on deck,” such as volunteers to work with vendor distribution and retention.

Furthermore, the paper itself needs more contributions, from articles about homelessness to creative work.

The Exchange is a part of New Orleans Street Exchange, Inc., a nonprofit organization that also houses UpStart, the newspaper’s vendor program, as well as Between the Lines, a literacy and writing program. To get involved, visit their website at NolaStreets.org. F

chery l ger ber photograph

52 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

student activist

By Mallory Lindsly

Liam Fitzgerald

Jesuit High School

“I would say that without immersing yourself in your community, you can’t really grow up,” says Liam Fitzgerald, a junior a Jesuit High School.

Last year, Fitzgerald and a few of his classmates noticed the lack of a Social Justice organization at Jesuit. The group came together and modeled The Jesuit Community Action Project (J-CAP) after the Loyola University Community Action Project. The club is dedicated to raising awareness and educating its members about pressing social issues in and around New Orleans. J-CAP focuses on different issues each month by educating students, participating in a service project and discussing what was learned from both educational and actionbased standpoints.

Fitzgerald says that he has to thank his parents, Tom Fitzgerald and Mary Baudouin, for his interest in being an activist.

He adds that they raised their children in an environment where social change and equality are of the utmost importance.

“All three of us – my brother, my sister and I – have devoted

ourselves to the community and to making the world just a bit easier for others. My parents have taught us that we can’t just stand idle when unjust things are occurring in society.”

The Harry Tompson Center is an organization that’s dear to the entire Fitzgerald family – his mother is on the board and his sister, Claire Fitzgerald, has also volunteered for over four years.

During his first summer at The Harry Tompson Center, Fitzgerald made friends with one of the patrons – an extremely friendly homeless man who just wanted to engage in conversation.

The next summer, he had mixed emotions seeing the patron again; Fitzgerald was happy to see a face that he recognized, but upset to see that his friend was still on the streets. In January, J-CAP held a service project at the center and Fitzgerald’s patron showed up again. This time was different, the man told him that he was working at the grocery store and was able to get an apartment through a New Orleans housing program. The only reason why the patron was at the center was to tell Fitzgerald “Hi.” Fitzgerald is a part of the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission Teen Council and is also very involved in many groups and organizations at Jesuit, including Cross Country and Track, National Honors Society, Spanish Honors Society and Mu Alpha Theta. He hopes to become a social worker and volunteer with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps or the Peace Corps as a complement to his activism. F

chery l ger ber photograph

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 53

shop talk

By Mirella Cameran

David W. Perlis President and co-owner, Perlis

Who would you most want to dress?

Probably the President of the United States; I believe we’re one of the few places that could help him with all his wardrobe needs from socks and shoes to white-tie and tails for the inauguration.

What do you think of New Orleanian style? I think we have a different

approach from almost anywhere else. There are so many events, parties and festivals, etc. People dress special for every occasion, and I think it’s great.

How did you get into the business? I

didn’t get the job I wanted out of college at the exact moment the employee who guided Perlis to buy their first sophisticated computer software program resigned. My father had no one to install the program; that’s where I stepped in.

You are the third generation; do you think there will be a fourth carrying on the business? Out of the five

children in the next generation, I would say two definitely not, one maybe and two are hopefuls! F

Why didn’t you leave? Because I

kept finding new opportunities to evolve the business from new Cajun Clothing Co. stores to our Mandeville location and now Baton Rouge. Also, I love what I do and I love our family, employees and customers.

How do you stay successful with all the big brand and online competition?

I believe retail is about having the right product and providing the right service to people. Big chains struggle to do both. We are in touch with our customers, the climate, the parties, etc., so we can buy for them and their lifestyles. We can also offer true personal service whether you’re buying underwear or a tailor-made suit. chery l ger ber photograph

54 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

shop talk

By Mirella Cameran

Anne Lynne Charbonnet Owner and Buyer, C. Collection

And we keep the store young and fun – that’s what we strive for!

Who would you most like to dress and accessorize? Maybe Jennifer Aniston

because she always seems happy and comfortable in what she wears.

Tell us about current trends? Right

now we’re selling lots of white jeggings paired with cute tops in mints, corals and prints. Everyone seems to love the chevron and Aztec prints in dresses and tops.

Lace, colored denim and statement jewelry continue to be popular.

How did you get started in the business? I moved to New Orleans

in 1995 and noticed a shortage of youthful, affordable clothing stores in the Uptown area. I signed a lease, went to Tulane University for help and traveled to New York for my first buying trip.

Why do you do what you do? What I love most are the people I work with. We have a good time – and I think it passes on to our customers.

We love helping people and making them feel good about themselves.

How do you make your buying decisions?

Buying at C. Collection is a group effort. We all participate and love this part of our job and the gratification when customers appreciate what we find at not-such-steep prices. We also enjoy having focus group coffee hours with people of different ages to ask what they want us to bring into the store.

What do you think of New Orleanians’ style? We think everyone in New

Orleans has their own style, which is what we love about the place. F

chery l ger ber photograph

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 55

advertising section

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Banbury Cross m 837-0447 Locally made his and hers “Blue Crab” smocks!

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420 Julia St., New Orleans 504-523-1357 www.lcm.org

Orient Expressed k 899-3060 Sleeveless Knit Top with Bird Embroidery, Tulle skirt with flowered underliner and ribbon sash with flowers at waist.

Sassy and adorable in sizes 3T-8!

advertising section

Lakeview Spotlight

m Robért Fresh Market

135 Robért E. Lee Blvd. | 504-282-3428 | robertfreshmarket.coml Robért Fresh Market takes pride in serving their customers with superior service and the freshest and highest quality food, while still bringing you the traditional feel of a neighborhood grocery store. At Robért’s, you can always find the foods you are passionate about- from organic produce and prime beef, to freshly prepared gourmet meals and sushi, as well as many New Orleans favorites! And, don’t forget to let Robért’s cater your next special occasion!

m Lakeview Grocery on Harrison Ave.

801 Harrison Ave. | 504-293-1201 | lakeviewgrocery.com Lakeview Grocery or “LG” for short brings a unique perspective on everyday groceries to the Lakeview neighborhood. LG brings you basic grocery staples at reasonable prices, with a convenient & friendly shopping experience. With a touch of a retro feel, the store has a wink of nostalgia to stores of the past, while infusing modern touches that will spark your interest and excite your appetite. And don’t forget to stop by the Harrison Cove every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 57

june snapshots

By Caroline Malouse

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6 3 1. Masters of Ceremony Jim Henderson and Margaret Orr ran the show at the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany’s sixth annual “Celebration,” called “An Evening of Marvels.” 2. Ochsner Health Systems CEO for the North Shore Region Polly Davenport and Nicole and Ray Gonzales were at the sold-out event, which showcased the talents of North Shore students and incredible restaurants, and culminated in the announcement of a “first stop” at Kids Town for the Children’s Museum, as well as plans for a new Cultural Arts District for St. Tammany. 3. Lester and Beverly Wainer and Ellie Wainer enjoyed the tunes of the St. Paul Jazz Wolves and Soul Revival at “Celebration.”

58 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

4. Josh Weinberg, pictured here next to his mother Susan, developed “Taste New Orleans, Savor Literacy” to benefit Start the Adventure in Reading (STAIR), a children’s literacy organization that provides reading tutors for public school first, second and third grade students. 5. Joseph and Anne Fuselier and John Stockmeyer were just a few of the nearly 200 people who attended “Taste New Orleans,” which was catered by more than 20 area restaurants and featured entertainment by Soul Rebels Brass Band, courtesy of the New Orleans Musicians Assistance Foundation. 6. Friends in Need Foundation President Brian Herbert, Richard Engh and FIN board member Robert Hienz were at Generations Hall to enjoy food, music and a live auction at “Rhythm and Booze,” a fundraiser to support Engh’s exorbitant medical bills in the wake of a severe brain injury he suffered in a motorcycle accident.

june snapshots

By Caroline Malouse

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9 7. Friends In Need board member Steve Pixberg, FIN Executive Director Lisa Jo Hienz and FIN board member Chris Villarrubia handled the silent auction at the gala. FIN was founded in 1997 to provide financial assistance to Southeastern Louisiana families in need as a result of medical crisis. 8.

The Giacobbe family was in attendance at the Delta Festival Ballet’s Gala “La Fête du Ballet,” which raised money for the ballet company. The theme of this year’s annual fundraiser was “Broadway Rhythms,” and it marked the 70th anniversary of the Giacobbe Academy of Dance. 9. Chairs Jessica Bourgeois and Katie Brandner created the event, which featured the music of the Joe Simon Trio and a performance by Delta’s own young dancers of a specially choreographed work by Ballet Master Richard Rholdon.

10. The 29th annual “Chef Soirée” at Bogue Falaya Park included more than 85 of the North Shore’s finest restaurants and beverage purveyors. Karen Rawls and Rick Flick met Amanda Shaw (center), who made a special guest appearance and performed with The Hurricane Levee Band. Gypsy River, Soul Revival, The Wagners and We3 also entertained. 11. Covington Mayor Mike Cooper and Skarlett Roa were in attendance at the “Chef Soirée” to help raise funds for the Youth Service Bureau, whose mission is to provide advocacy, counseling, education and intervention for at-risk youth and their families, helping them reach their full potential. 12. This year’s “Rau for Art” grand prize winner was 11th grader Haley Dupont of Riverdale High School. She was awarded with a trip to Italy and scholarship money. The event, this year themed “New Orleans Cuisine: from Producer to Plate,” includes the RFA Scholarship Contest, which is dedicated to promoting talented emerging artists at the high school level.

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 59

june snapshots

By Caroline Malouse

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18 15 13. Mark and Lisa Heller and Shirley and Ralph Seelig were the honorees at the Jewish Children’s Regional Service’s “Jewish Roots of Comedy” gala this year. The Hellers were acknowledged for their 30 years of volunteer experience in New Orleans and in the Jewish community as leaders in the JCRS, and the Seeligs notably established the Shirley and Ralph Seelig Education Fund. 14. Co-chairs Mimi Schlesinger, Jane Miller and Ellen Kessler were responsible for the night of laughter, where audience members were encouraged to use whoopee cushions, sport fake cigars and wear “Groucho” nose glasses throughout the evening. 15. JCRS board members Jimmy Cahn, Eileen Wallen and Marc Beerman are all smiles while watching stand-up comics Avi Liberman and Wendy Liebman.

60 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

16. First Lady Cheryl Landrieu, Mayor Mitch Landrieu, Ruth Kullman and her husband, FirstLine Schools Board of Directors chair Larry Kullman, were just a few of the attendees at “An Edible Evening: A Garden Party Under the Stars” to support the Edible Schoolyard New Orleans. The event raised more than $75,000. 17. Co-chairs Christina Sheets and Vera Lester, seen here with event patron Dr. Stephen Hales, coordinated more than 30 area restaurants for the event at Samuel J. Green Charter School. Presqu’ile Winery provided libations. 18. Adam Biderman, chef and owner of Company Burger, with his staff, prepare for a night of service at “An Edible Evening,” which also featured live music made possible by Positive Vibrations Foundation, featuring Seguenon Kone and the NOCCA Jazz Ensemble.

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Ace and the Louisiana Open Housing Act, which make it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. For more information, call the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-273-5718.

62 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Premier

Properties 10 Swan ........................SOLD ............ $1,300,000 1429 Jackson Ave ..................................$995,000 500 Audubon ...............SOLD ................$998,000 22 Farnham ...................SOLD ................$950,000 1566 Calhoun ................SOLD ................$875,000 704 Webster .................SOLD ................$850,000 5111 Pitt..........................SOLD ................$749,000 1240 Eighth....................SOLD ................$725,000 6308 Camp.....................SOLD ................$549,000 6219 Magazine St........SOLD ................$530,000 4919 Dryades............................................$517,000 924 Bellecastle ............SOLD ................$485,000 234 Audubon St. ..........SOLD ................$479,000 8233 Freret St ...............SOLD ................$445,000 5120 Chestnut...............SOLD ................$439,000 6300 Colbert St. ............SOLD ................$419,000 4 Stilt ...............................SOLD ................$415,000 4440 Bienville ...............SOLD ................$399,000 915 Cadiz........................SOLD ................$396,000 422 Henry Clay Ave ................................$368,000 4701 Iberville.................SOLD ................$335,000 7400 Cohn St. ..............SOLD ................$279,000 1212 Milan St. ......................................... $249,000 266 Hillary St. ..........................................$239,500 2619 St Charles Ave, C ..........................$209,000 4630 Eastern St. ......................................$178,500

June 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 63

By Seale Paterson

Past Becomes Future The International Trade Mart, a precursor to what would become the World Trade Center organization, was formed in New Orleans in the mid-1940s to promote international trade and the Port of New Orleans. As the organization grew, they realized they needed a building to house that organization, other businesses and foreign consulates, as well as to provide a showcase and meeting space for international clients and visitors.

Property was bought at the end of Canal Street where it meets the Mississippi River. With assistance from the City of New Orleans,

who took over the deed to the land and rented it back to them (at the rate of $1 per year), they were able to build a grand tower.

The unique cross-shaped modernist building was designed by famous New York architect Edward Durell Stone. Construction began in 1963 and was completed in ’67.

With 33 floors and a height of 407 feet, it was the tallest building in New Orleans from ’67-’69. It was formally dedicated on April 30, ’68, as part of the 250th anniversary events of the founding of New Orleans. Ambassadors from around the world visited and enjoyed

64 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

The International Trade Mart

parades and banquets in true New Orleans style.

One of the most well-known features of the building was the revolving cocktail lounge on the 33rd floor. Owner Jed Stedman opened and ran the Top of the Mart until it closed in 2001. The panoramic views of the city as the bar made a full revolution every hour drew tourists and locals alike, and was a popular place for the prom crowd, first dates, and proposals.

Since the late 1990s, talks of redevelopment have produced a lot of potential plans, but very

little action. The City of New Orleans bought out the building’s lease agreement in 2012. A decision should be made soon in regards to the future of the currently empty building, which is slated for either demolition or redevelopment. F

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new orleans nostalgia

The International Trade Mart building, which would later become the World Trade Center Building, soon after its completion in 1967. Photo by Sam Sutton, provided courtesy of the New Orleans Public Library.