(Back) Deputy Director Gretna Emergency Medical Services Ryan Brown and Gala Chair, Jefferson Parish Coroner and Medical Director, MHM Urgent Care Dr. Gerry Cvitanovich; (middle) West Jefferson Medical Center EMS William Davis and Director, East Jefferson General Hospital EMS Mike Guillot; and (front) Director Westwego EMS T.J. Aldor, Operations Manager, Acadian Ambulance Kelly Legania and Deputy Director, New Orleans EMS Carl Flores for American Heart Association’s 2014 “Heart & Soul Gala.”
on the cover
On Saturday, June 7, the local chapter of the American Heart Association will hold its 2014 “Heart & Soul Gala,” this year honoring the EMS of District 1. This year’s gala chair, Jefferson Parish Coroner and Medical Director for MHM Urgent Care, Dr. Gerry Cvitanovich, is pictured on our cover with some of those honorees: Deputy Director of Gretna Emergency Medical Services Ryan Brown, West Jefferson Medical Center EMS William Davis, Director of East Jefferson General Hospital EMS Mike Guillot, Director of Westwego EMS T.J. Aldor, Operations Manager of Acadian Ambulance Kelly Legania and Deputy Director of New Orleans EMS Carl Flores. The evening at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center will start at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception and silent auction, with a dinner, presentations, live auction and dancing following at 8 p.m. Sponsored by Peoples Health, UnitedHealthcare, Northwestern Mutual of Louisiana, LSU Health Sciences Center Foundation, AT&T, Tulane Medical Center and LAMMICO, the funds raised at the gala help the American Heart Association to continue the fight against cardiovascular diseases and defects – the No. 1 killer in the state of Louisiana and in the country. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 830-2300. n
Always Comfortable, Always on Trend
Voted
Gambit™ Best of New Orleans—Shoe Store Five years running – 2009 – 2013
For hours and store information, visit us at
4122 Magazine St • 526 Royal St 200 Metairie Rd
Photographed by Jeffery Johnston
Special thanks to Linzy Roussel Cotaya, APR, Senior Communications Director of Louisiana for the American Heart Association for all of her assistance. saintcharlesavenue.com | 1
contents features 22 Fighting for Flying Horses
Friends of City Park’s “Lark in the Park” was held to restore the carousel.
24 Dedicated to Eskow’s Memory
The Contemporary Arts Center’s “SweetArts 2014” honored New Orleans culture preservationists.
26 Beating Heart Disease
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The American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women Luncheon.”
28 A Very Merry Un-Birthday
The Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera Association celebrated its 30th “Mad Hatter’s Luncheon & Fashion Show.”
30 Delightful Donors
The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans’ “Goldring-Woldenberg Major Donor Dinner.”
32 30 Years of Care
The NO/AIDS Task Force celebrated its 30th anniversary in style.
34 Guided by the Light
“An Evening Benefitting Louisiana Lighthouse.”
36 Hail Fellows Well Met
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The New Orleans Museum of Art celebrated its annual “Fellows Dinner.”
38 Congratulating the Cowens
The New Orleans chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women presented the “Hannah G. Solomon Award.”
40 Shoot to Cure
The Chartwell Center’s “Louisiana Sporting Clays Classic Fun Shoot.”
43 Encore!
The past social season in review: from black-tie to barbecue
48 Kids’ Choice
Today’s kids have fashion at their fingertips and myriad local options for looking chic.
52 Easy Updates to Total Renovation
52 2 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
Local suppliers and design experts share tips for your kitchens and bathrooms.
contents
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in every issue 8
A Note From Bev
10 Cruisin’ the Crescent 12 Skin Deep Everything you need to be your best – all under $50 14 Kids Play Ogling Alligators: Touring the Honey Island Swamp 16 What’s Hot Beachwear
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18 On the Menu
Busting Out the Brussels: Chef Alon Shaya of Pizza Domenica’s Brussels Sprout Salad
20 The Dish
Latin Rhythms: A plethora of Latin restaurants spice things up
56 Entertaining With Bev Entertaining in the Garden: Local retailers make it easy to
personalize your outdoor soirée.
58 With This Ring
Tennison – Bush
60 Young Bloods
Kickboard Founder and CEO, Jennifer Medbery
61 Student Activist
60
Lucky Tucker: Lusher Charter School
62 Shop Talk
Angelique Baby: Co-owner, Jennifer Atkins
63 Shop Talk
The Historic New Orleans Collection: Marketing Manager, Teresa Devlin
64 Snapshots 68 OnStage Performance Calendar 72 Nostalgia Travel Without Leaving Home: International pavilions at the
4 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
1984 World’s Fair
New Orleans’ definitive social magazine June 2014 / Volume 18 / Issue 1
Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Sarah George Beauty Columnist Cat Wall Aschaffenburg Society Columnist Shelby Westfeldt Mills Associate Editors Haley Adams, Lauren LaBorde, Melanie Warner Spencer web Editor Lauren LaBorde Intern Lexi Wangler advertising sales manager Maegan O’Brien (504) 830-7219, Maegan@MyNewOrleans.com
senior Account Executive Brittany Brady (504) 830-7248, Brittany@MyNewOrleans.com
traffic manager Erin Duhe Production/Web Manager Staci McCarty Production Designer Ali Sullivan Administration Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President/Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde vice president of sales Colleen Monaghan DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS Kristi Ferrante Distribution Manager Christian Coombs Subscriptions Sara Kelemencky (504) 830-7231 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Denise Dean
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, © 2014 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 June 2014
A NOTE FROM BEV
events JUNE
Summer in Seersucker Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of men and women in this country, so we’re especially proud to feature the “Heart & Soul Gala” on the June cover. This year Dr. Gerry Cvitanovich will chair the event and thanks so much to our additional cover honorees: Deputy Director of Gretna Emergency Medical Services Ryan Brown, West Jefferson Medical Center EMS William Davis, Director of East Jefferson General Hospital EMS Mike Guillot, Director of Westwego EMS T.J. Aldor, Operations Manager of Acadian Ambulance Kelly Legania and Deputy Director of New Orleans EMS Carl Flores. The gala will be held June 7 at the Convention Center, with the patron party from 6 to 8 p.m., and dinner, a presentation, live auction and dancing from 8 to 11:30 p.m., sponsored by Peoples Health, UnitedHealthcare, Northwestern Mutual of Louisiana, LSU Health Sciences Center Foundation, AT&T, Tulane Medical Center and LAMMICO.
8 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
1 24th annual “Le Gala de la Bonne Vie,” benefiting the National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana, 861-4500 4 “Business Hall of Fame,” benefiting Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans, 569-8658
Please support this amazing event: 100 percent of funds raised stay in New Orleans community, and this year alone the American Heart Association has invested over $2 million into research at Louisiana State University, Ochsner and Tulane. Call 473-6494 or contact Linzy Cotaya by emailing linzy.cotaya@heart. org for tickets and information. Now that summer is here, we have a What’s Hot for Beachwear to get you ready, featuring everything from sunglasses to swimsuits. Before you head out to the beach, look to our feature on kitchens and bathrooms, where we have local experts weighing in on everything from easy updates to whole renovations. And, whether we’re buying for our children or grandchildren, we want the best and latest for babies, toddlers and teens. Check out our feature on “Children’s Chic” for great new looks. We are so sad that we’ve lost George Rodrigue, a true son of Louisiana and one of the
7 “Heart & Soul Gala,” benefiting the American Heart Association, 830-2300 state’s greatest artists, but take heart: there’s a retrospective of his work in his New Orleans, Carmel and Lafayette galleries on view until January 2015! It is curated by E. John Bullard and follows his career from the early days of brooding landscapes in Acadiana up to the Blue Dog era. Visit GeorgeRodrigue.com/rodriguea-memorial-retrospective for more information. Franco’s Athletic Club and its new state-of-the-art fitness center is open at 2116 Magazine St. in the heart of the Garden District – you’ve got to see it! They have a great lineup of group exercises, the latest technology and equipment, outreach programs, special events and the finest amenities, including special lighting and surround sound. It is open seven days a week from 4:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. Individual, couple and family memberships are available; call 504-218-4637 for more information.
We are on a roll fundraising for the new YaYa Art Center! The new facility, a partnership with Harmony NOLA, will include teaching studios, a woodworking shop, multi-media painting and craft studios, a cooperatuve retail gallery and a fully eqipped hot-glass studio accessible to the public. Join committee members Ashley Bright and Anna Scaefer with chairs Bev and (front) Kay Kerrigan and Executive Director Baty Landis for the kick-off event June 16 at 3316-3318 LaSalle St. beginning at 10:30 a.m. To find out more, visit YaYaInc.com.
7 Fifth annual “610 Stompers Ball Crawl: Saved by the Ball,” benefiting Animal Rescue New Orleans, 610Stompers.com 12 “Pause 4 Paws,” benefiting the Louisiana SPCA, 762-3307 13 “Shakespeare Festival Season Preview Party,” benefiting the Shakespeare Festival at Tulane, 865-5105 13 “Spotlight on Success Gala,” benefiting March of Dimes, 264-9288 19 “ Mr. Legs XIV,” benefiting Bridge House/Grace House, 821-7288 19-22 “FestiGals 2014,” (855) 425-9563
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., Ste. 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:
saintcharlesavenue.com | 9
cruisin’ the crescent
By Shelby Westfeldt mills
People flock to New Orleans to experience all sorts of
things, such as jazz, food and cocktails, but we often forget one other gem New Orleans has to offer, and that’s our wide abundance of antiques. Though the street that most people associate with the French Quarter is Bourbon Street, just one street over is Royal Street, which has been referred to as the “antique mecca of the South.” It is littered with shops filled with gorgeous treasures from all over the world. From furniture to jewelry to art, you can find just about anything. Someone new to Royal Street might partner “antiquing” with a serious, stuffy event where you need to look like you’re ready to spend a lot of money. Having recently perused the shops on Royal Street, I found it was quite the opposite. From Waldhorn & Adler to Keil’s to M.S. Rau, everyone was very welcoming and encouraged me to poke around. I don’t know many other cities where it’s acceptable for someone to pop in and out of antique shops with a sazerac from the Hermes Bar in your hand. But that’s New Orleans for you; it doesn’t matter if you came from Galatoire’s or Laffite’s Blacksmith Shop, you’re going to feel welcome most places you go. Most of these antique shops are over 100 years old, and family owned and run. They have instilled the same attitude toward their antiques for generations. Whether you’re looking for a $10,000 chest of drawers or a $50 bauble, they’re selling history. How fitting to have such an collection of history for sale on such an historic street. Remember though, don’t have too many cocktails before you shop, because if you break it, you buy it!
10 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
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Jane Scott Hodge’s new book, Linens: For Every Room and Occasion, hit the shelves April 1 with a big splash. Linen lovers gathered at Leontine Linens, Hodge’s store on Magazine Street, for a book signing party to celebrate the big debut. Guests sipped champagne and noshed on nibbles from La Petite Grocery while perusing the lovely linens designed by Jane Scott Hodge herself. The book, which is a guide to living and entertaining with fine textiles, features over 200 color photos of bedding, bath and table linens. 1. Anne Redd, Edmund Redd, Melissa Rufty and Jody Candrian 2. Ashley, Taylor and Lynn Morgan with Deborah Mooney
The annual “Good Shepard School Golf Tournament” was held this year at the Audubon Golf Course, with Royal Honda serving as the title sponsor. More than 100 golfers played in the tournament and enjoyed the picture-perfect day as well as food sponsored by Acme Oyster House, the Marriott Business Center and Sportsbeat Pub. In conjunction with the tournament, Good Shepard held a $10,000 giveaway raffle for which it sold more than 200 tickets. In addition to Royal Honda, the event was also sponsored by Bellwether Technology, Whitney Bank and Entergy New Orleans, among others.
3. Jessica White, Barbara Diano, Holly Adams and Carol York 4. Ryan Leopold, Daniel Weidner, Rookie Leopold and Regan Leopold 5. Doug Stokes, Jimmy Dunn, Tripp Roy and Adam Gros
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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
saintcharlesavenue.com | 11
skin deep
By Cat Wall Aschaffenburg
Top 10 Summer Beauty Essentials Everything you need to be your best – all under $50 Summer is finally here! With each season comes a different set of
beauty needs, so what should you stock up on for this sunny season? Start with our top 10 summer beauty essentials.
No. 1 Sunscreen
No. 2 Lip Balm With SPF
No. 5 Shave Gel
It is no big secret that sunscreen is an absolute summer necessity. Save your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and preserve it for the future with a sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Unlike lotion sunscreens you’re probably used to, bareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen is a lightweight mineral powder that barely feels there and won’t clog your pores. It also comes in a range of shades so you can match the powder to your skin tone.
Just like the rest of your face, your lips need protection from the harmful effects of the sun. Burt’s Bees Lifeguard’s Choice Lip Balm is specially formulated for people who face extreme weather, so it will keep your lips soft and hydrated even after an entire day at the beach or pool.
Is your skin susceptible to razor bumps? Avoid this unsightly bathing suit bummer with Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel, a luxurious product that has been shown to noticeably decrease the occurrence of razor bumps and also hydrates your skin with every use.
No. 3 Gentle Cleanser
Get your face ready for its poolside close up with a gentle but effective facial cleanser that will zap oil without overdrying. I love Lush Aqua Marina Cleanser, but don’t get spooked by its untraditional appearance. This product is truly all natural and while nature isn’t always pretty, in this case it leads to very pretty results. The calming cleanser is formulated for all skin types and is particularly effective at reducing redness with the help of calamine and aloe. No. 4 Firming Moisturizer
Summer means showing a lot more skin, so it’s important to keep your body moisturized. I love a product that does triple duty, which is why I’ll be keeping my legs soft and toned with Nivea Body Firming Moisturizer. It moisturizes, firms and sunless tans your skin – one simple step to bikini-ready skin! 12 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
No. 6 Bronzer
Since tanning is a no-no, give your face a sun-kissed glow with the next best thing: Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder. This product will help even out your skin tone as you apply, and you can layer it to create varying levels of color for healthy, justback-from-the-beach beauty. No. 7 Tinted Moisturizer
Dare to go bare this summer, meaning it’s time to trade heavy foundation for a much lighter tinted moisturizer. I am partial to Sonia Kashuk Radiant+ Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15. This workhorse tint packs enough pigment to hide imperfections, and the color and texture look natural against skin. No. 8 Waterproof Mascara
Long lashes are fabulous in any season, but with all the sweat, swimming and sprinklers of summer, it’s even more important to use a waterproof
formula so that it stays on your lashes and not all over your face. Try CoverGirl LashBlast Waterproof Mascara for long, volumized lashes. No. 9 Hair Strengthening Treatment
Chlorine, sun and wind can do a serious number on your hair. Give it some TLC with a treatment that will bring back hair’s natural shine. Try Lait Richesse by Kerastase; it’s a daily conditioner that strengthens and revitalizes dehydrated hair. No. 10 Frizz Fighting Hair Serum
Fight the frizz this humid season with John Frieda Frizz-Ease Extra Strength Hair Serum. It will instantly reduce frizz, and when used every day it will even help prevent future frizz. n
kids play
By lynne gibbons
Ogling Alligators Touring the Honey Island Swamp It us nearly impossible to live in New Orleans during hurricane season and not hear about the value and benefits that the Louisiana wetlands provide our city in the event of a storm in the Gulf of Mexico. These wetlands, lying to our south, absorb a great deal of the water surge a storm creates and diffuses it before it can cause flooding farther inland. So, of course, we all realize the importance of protecting our wetlands. Could there be a better way to ensure that the next 14 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
generation of caretakers and decision makers recognizes and appreciates the value and beauty of our marsh than to take the kids on a swamp tour? Louisiana is home to approximately 40 percent of the nation’s wetlands. One of these wetlands, the Honey Island Swamp, is just a 40-minute drive from New Orleans and offers many great options for tours and is visited by people from all over the world. Named for the hives of honeybees that were seen on an island in the marsh many
decades ago, The Honey Island Swamp is approximately 250 square miles running along the Pearl River and is one of the most pristine and unchanged wetlands. Cajun Encounters, Pearl River Eco Tours and Honey Island Swamp Tours are all highly recommended and reputable tour companies. We chose Honey Island Swamp Tours for our most recent adventure and were not disappointed. Less than five minutes off of the Gause Boulevard exit on Interstate 10 in Slidell, you’ll drive up to a small Cajun log cabin where you check in. Next we headed down to the pier and boarded our boat. The boats provide bench-like seating on both sides of the boat so everyone has a front-row seat. The boats also have a cloth top that provides shades for the passengers – a definite bonus in the summer heat. Very quickly you realize you’re in a special place. Off of the main bayou, there’s a maze of smaller channels that the tour guide navigates with the same familiarity as we do the streets around our homes. The channels are lined with gorgeous mature cypress and tupelo gum trees emerging from the water and draped with a canopy of Spanish moss, which filters the sun shining down in the marsh. At times, the scene is so beautiful and haunting it seems surreal. Our tour guide was not only very entertaining but also an expert at pointing out and identifying the various types of vegetation, including trees, lilies and wild irises. Next, we started searching for animal wildlife. It didn’t take long to spot countless turtles, raccoons and even a snake or two. Occasionally, wild boars will make an appearance, but they were evidently hiding on our tour day. But if there’s one animal you think of when you think of the swamp, it’s the alligator.
The tour just would not seem complete without the kids spying an alligator. We didn’t need to worry! Our guide would make noises and, like the Pied Piper, we quickly had several small alligators literally swimming up to the sides of the boat. The guide then put broken pieces of hot dogs on the end of a stick and held it our over the water. I knew alligators were great swimmers, but I didn’t know they were such jumpers until we saw them literally leap out of the water to grab the hot dog. Our guide seemed to know the alligators by name, identifying them by their colors or scars. As our parting gift to the gators, the guide gave us a few marshmallows to throw in the water for the gators, who seemed to enjoy marshmallows as much as hot dogs! You run a much greater chance of seeing the gators in the spring, summer and fall when the temperatures tend to be warmer. The only other thing we didn’t see on our trip, although we heard many interesting tales about his origin from our guide, was the famed Honey Island Swamp Monster. Maybe next time! Back at the dock, the kids each picked out a Cajun treasure as a souvenir. The store sells T-shirts and alligator tooth necklaces and bracelets, as well as drinks, sunscreen and bug spray. Keep in mind that the gift shop only accepts cash. If you have friends or family coming in from out of town, all three of these companies offer shuttle service from the downtown hotels to their facility for an additional charge. For more information, prices, age requirements and reservations, visit the tour companies’ websites: CajunEncounters.com, PearlRiverEcoTour.com and HoneyIslandSwamp.com. n
saintcharlesavenue.com | 15
what’s hot
by Lexi Wangler
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Beachwear Southern girls have to put up with a lot during the Crescent City’s sweltering summers; but all that means is that we’re pretty well-versed when it comes to beating the heat – and looking fabulous while doing so. Get inspired by these June looks for beachwear, and whether you’re jetting off down the Gulf Coast or lounging by the pool, you’ll be dressed to impress.
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1. Jude Connally’s summer dresses could be an essential in your beach bag. From Ballin’s LTD, these American-made dresses combine modern, classic and comfort in bold and vibrant colors. Ballin’s LTD, 866-4367, 721 Dante St., BallinsLtd.com. 2. For versatile pieces such as this T&C Scarf Top, look no further than boutique Haute, just minutes from the CBD. Lightweight and easy, double this scarf with your bikini to tone down your own heat off the beach. Haute Boutique, 522-8687, 725 Magazine St., HauteNola.com. 3. Angelique Shoes provides a wide variety of beach accessories this month with these summer metallics. Mix and match this HOSS clutch, Vince flats and trendy Elizabeth and James sunglasses with your seasonal wardrobe for a look that pops. Angelique Shoe, 891-8992, 5421 Magazine St., AngeliqueShoe.com. 4. Vintage is the word this swimsuit season, and locally owned and founded fashion tycoon Trashy Diva brings us a comfortable and flattering piece from Fables by Barrie with a nautical summer 16 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
select photos by cheryl gerber
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6 theme. Trashy Diva, 2044 Magazine St., 831 Chartres St., 299-3939, TrashyDiva.com. 5. Uptown’s Perfect Fit Shoes brings us the ultimate beach sandal paired with orthopedic support in these gold and coral sequined sandals from Vionic with Orthaheel Technology. Perfect Fit Shoes, 456-5993, 5525 Magazine St., PerfectFitShoes.net. 6. High-waisted clothing is back for the season this summer. Start with a great-fitting suit from local bra guru Jeanne Emory’s specialty lingerie shop in Mandeville for retro-inspired two-piece suits like this and more. Bra Genie, (985) 951-8638, 2881 Highway 190, Mandeville 7. This sleeveless printed romper by Vince goes from beach to street just like that, keeping you cool in its light fabric all the way. FeBe Clothing, 835-5250, 474 Metairie Road, Suite 102 8. Cover-ups are an essential beach piece for the resort or for the restaurant this summer. Echo Designs teams up with Feet First to help you feel cool, comfy and confident in these bright and flowy pieces. Feet First Shoes, Handbags and Accessories, 899-6800, various local locations saintcharlesavenue.com | 17
on the menu REcipe Brussels Sprout Salad 4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts, raw 1 cup toasted almonds 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped Salt to taste 1 cup pickled raisins (recipe below) 1/2 cup mustard vinaigrette (recipe below) Pickled Raisins 4 teaspoons yellow and brown mustard seeds 1 cup sugar 3 Tablespoons rice wine vinegar 3 Tablespoons white wine vinegar 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes 2 bay leaves 10 ounces golden raisins 2 teaspoons thyme 2-inch sprig rosemary 2 teaspoons kosher salt
Mustard Vinaigrette 1/2 cup Creole mustard (you may substitute whole grain mustard) 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 1 Tablespoon thyme 1 Tablespoon dill 1 Tablespoon cilantro 2 Tablespoons sugar 2 cups olive oil Salt to taste 1 cup rice wine vinegar Pickled Raisins: Heat mustard seeds in a dry skillet on medium heat. Remove from heat once the seeds start to pop, approximately 2 minutes. Combine the toasted mustard seeds, 1 cup water and the rest of the ingredients in a small non-aluminum pan. Bring to a boil, then turn heat to low. Simmer 6-8 minutes until liquid has reduced by half. Let cool and store in the refrigerator. Mustard Vinaigrette: Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and whip together.
Busting Out the Brussels Chef Alon Shaya of Pizza Domenica’s Brussels Sprout Salad 18 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
Brussels Sprout Salad: Toss all ingredients for the salad and pickled raisins together, toss with the vinaigrette and serve immediately. Serves 4-6
Pizza Domenica 4933 Magazine St., 301-4978 PizzaDomenica.com
jeffery johnston photograph
saintcharlesavenue.com | 19
the dish
By jyl benson
TRY THIS The vegan invasion into New Orleans has a solid bunker in the recently opened Seed, “garden based, NOLA taste,” all organic foods that are often raw, soy-free and/or gluten-free. And while the Seed gumbo will never replace your grandmother’s version and the raw vegan enchiladas might never be Super Bowl fare, it’s delicious nonetheless and sure to be a big hit here in Hollywood South. Seed, 1330 Prytania St., 302-2599
Raw Vegan Enchiladas from Seed, New Orleans
Latin Rhythms A plethora of Latin restaurants spice things up Carlos Castillio was decades
ahead of his time when he opened Castillio’s, his excellent authentic Mexican restaurant at the corner of Exchange Alley and Conti Street in 1964. Considered wildly exotic, Latin food was rarely eaten in New Orleans, and the ’69 opening of Liborio Cuban restaurant on nearby Magazine Street had little impact on bringing ethnic food into the mainstream in a city devoted to its native French Creole dishes and fried seafood. But both restaurants quietly persevered. When Adolfo Garcia left Rio Mar, his high-end Spanish-style seafood eatery last year, chef Miles Prescott kept the New World ceviches already on the menu 20 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
while pushing more Venezuelan, Colombian, Ecuadorean and Peruvian dishes onto the table. A recent chef’s tasting served as an extensive culinary romp through Central America with Al Fuego (shrimp), Rocoto (scallops and octopus) and Flor (drum) ceviches; Pariheula de Mariscos (Peruvian seafood stew); mussels
with Morcilla and red wine; grilled Escolar with coconut milk and lime; grilled Black Drum with shrimp, Maduro relleno and chayote and coconut relish; and a silken flan with dulce de leche. Chefs Hans Limburg, Gary Darling and Greg Reggio (The Taste Buds) recently opened Mizado Cocina,
a chic eatery with a focus on contemporary Mexican and Latin
American dishes. The kitchen takes a playful approach that makes no attempt to masquerade as traditional with selections of ceviche in a variety of styles: Tiraditos (inspired by Japan’s Nikkei chefs), Peruvian and Baja; guacamole prepared tableside and soft corn tacos with decidedly non-Latin fillings such as alligator, smoked pork belly and duck confit. Opened in 2010, Panchita’s on Carrollton Avenue offers authentic renditions of dishes from the state of Veracruz, along Mexico’s Gulf coast. Seafood is the star at this humble and homey spot, but a recent breakfast of Huevos con Jamon (scrambled eggs with ham and fresh Cojita cheese) was so utterly delicious and inexpensive ($6.25 for a heaping plate with a pile of just-made tortillas) as to have rendered the meal unforgettable. Also on the humble side but lacking Panchita’s homey charm, Los Panchos is located in a generic strip mall in Terrytown. If you require a stimulating dining environment you’ll not find it here unless watching Spanish television is your thing. But if it’s fresh, authentic Mexican food on the cheap you seek, this is your place. An $11 appetizer platter is crammed with chimichangas, quesadillas, tostadas, tacos, taquitos and guacamole and it’s enough to feed two people and still leave room for an order
of cinnamon-kissed churros for dessert. Fresh fruit margaritas the size of your head make it easy to forget the ever-present television. At the other end of the spectrum Casa Borrega is as stimulating and colorful as a Technicolor stoner movie. To create their fun and funky dream world Hugo Montero, an artist and musician born in Mexico City, and environmentalist Linda Stone executed a meticulous, historical, green restoration of a 1891 Greek Revival home in Central City. The vibrant walls in the dining room and outdoor area are lavished with paintings and folk figurines, stained glass windows, Montero’s extensive collection of guitars and music memorabilia and mirrors. It is the perfect backdrop for chefs Matilde Gayossa’s and Richard Gonzalez’s spot on celebration of
the complex cuisine of Mexico City. The menu changes daily but always includes a fresh ceviche made with local seafood, sopes (griddled cornmeal cakes) with black beans, queso fresco and shaved radish, and Chilaquiles del Dia, strips of corn tortilla lightly fried and sauced with salsa roja or verde and topped with Mexican crema and queso fresco. There is usually live music at night, an extensive selection of tequilas and mescals and a popular Saturday brunch. n
Casa Borrega, 1719 Oretha C. Haley Blvd., 427-0654, CasaBorrega.com Liborio, 321 Magazine St., 581-9680, LiborioCuban.com Los Panchos, 445 Terry Parkway, Terrytown, 368-0828 Mizado Cucina, 5080 Pontchartrain Blvd., 885-5555, MizadoCocina.com Panchita’s, 1434 S. Carrollton Ave., 281-4127 Rio Mar ,800 S Peters St., 525-3474, RioMarSeafood.com
sara essex bradle y photograph
saintcharlesavenue.com | 21
philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
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Fighting for Flying Horses Friends of City Park’s “Lark in the Park” held to restore the carousel. This year’s “Lark in the Park” smashed it out of the park, or at least out of the Botanical Gardens, on Friday, March 14. With a patron party and gala, more than 900 guests attended this year’s lavish event to support City Park, put on annually by the Friends of City Park since 1980 as conceptualized by Paul Soniat, Director of the Botanical Garden. This year’s proceeds went to restoring the oldest ride in the Amusement Park, the carousel. Sometimes known as the “Flying Horses,” it dates back to 1906, though some of the pieces go all the way back to 1885. In honor of the carousel, the patron party featured a specialty cocktail called “The Flying Horses” crafted by the Hotel Monteleone’s Carousel Bar and Lounge. Chaired by Joy Grace, the patron party also featured food from Tableau and entertainment by Anais St. John in the Pavilion of the Two Sisters. The gala took place in the New Orleans Botanical Garden and Rose Garden with savory delectables from more than 40 New Orleans establishments, such as Commander’s Palace, MoPho, Mr. John’s Steakhouse, Oceana Grill, Zea’s and more, as well as entertainment from Flow Tribe. Guests had the opportunity at an exciting live auction to bid on items such as a New Orleans Saints replica helmet autographed by the majority of the 2013-’14 lineup including Brees, Graham and Sproles, a unique painting created at the event for the event by Frenchy, the “King of Oak Street,” and more. Raffle prizes included a 2014 Bryan Subaru Forester and Vespa from Terminix. n
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event at a glance What: “Lark in the Park,” benefiting the Friends of City Park When: Friday, March 14 Where: New Orleans Botanical Garden
1. Andrea Frischhertz and Ann Heslin 2. Beau Bassich, Mary Johnson, Bob Becker and Casie Duplechain 3. Bryan Batt and Susan Hess 4. Vincent and Jackie Palumbo with Rex Budacz 5. Richard Meek, Juli Miller Hart, Tania Hahn and Mark Romig 6. Catherine and Will Hales with Sudie Joint and Alicia Corcoran
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Photographed by jeff strout
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
1
Dedicated to Eskew’s Memory The Contemporary Arts Center’s “SweetArts 2014” honored New Orleans culture preservationists. More than 500 guests attended the Contemporary Arts Center’s “SweetArts 2014,” and witnessed the presentation of the “SweetArts Awards,” given to individuals and organizations that embody the heart and soul of the New Orleans cultural community. This year honored five individuals and organizations for their commitment to preserving New Orleans culture: the Helis Foundation represented by David A. Kerstein, musician Hannibal Lokumbe, visual artist and arts educator Mary Jane Parker, Paul J. Tines and Gretchen and Rodger Wheaton The event was dedicated to the memory of past CAC board president Allen Eskew (1948-2013), who embraced the spirit of the New Orleans cultural community in his daily life. The honorees were celebrated at the preceding reception at the home of Robin Burgess and Terrence Blanchard, with entertainment by the Faubourg Quartet, NOCCA Jazz Quartet and DJ Brice Nice. Erica Falls, DJ Matty and Fayard Lindsey provided entertainment while guests enjoyed edibles from Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House, Atchafalaya, Broussard’s, Boucherie and more. In addition to the awards presentation, the gala evening also served to preview the acclaimed blockbuster touring exhibition, “30 Americans,” which the proceeds of the event will keep on view until June 15. n
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event at a glance What: “SweetArts 2014,” benefiting the Contemporary Arts Center When: Friday, February 7 Where: Contemporary Arts Center
1. Barbara Motley, Raelle Myrick-Hodges and Biff Motley 2. Tim and Ashley Francis 3. Gregg Porter and Denise Berthiaume 4. Honoree Hannibal and Sumai Lokumbe 5. Wayne Troyer and Claire Tancons 6. Jan Gilbert, Steve Walkup and Maggie Hadleigh-West
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Photographed by Jeff strout
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
1
Beating Heart Disease The American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women Luncheon.” Nearly 500 guests joined the American Heart Association on Thursday, February 13 for their annual “Go Red for Women Luncheon,” featuring emcee Katie Moore of WWL, speakers Natasha Lewis, Christie Reinhardt and Suzanne Whitaker of the Circle of Red. Sponsored by United Healthcare, Peoples Healthcare and Paris Parker, the event was chaired by Bridget Galatas of United Healthcare. The luncheon featured delicious edibles provided by the Sheraton Hotel and entertainment in the form of a Fashion Strut by Chatta Box. This Mardi Gras, the Go Red for Women Movement has teamed up with the all-female Krewe of Nyx, beginning with the silent auction at the luncheon that featured local celebrities/movers and shakers donating a purse filled with their favorite things to be auctioned off at the luncheon, such as restaurant certificates, spa treatments, concert tickets and more. Those “pursenalities” included Molly Kimball, Lorin Gaudin, Susan Spicer, Betsie Gambel, Beverly Matheney, Stephanie Osborne and the Krewe of Nyx. Held annually by the Go Red for Women Movement, the “Go Red for Women Luncheon” is just one of several events put on to educate and increase awareness of the dangers of heart disease in women, as well as the littleknown fact that more women die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined. n
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event at a glance What: “Go Red for Women Luncheon,” benefiting the American Heart Association When: Thursday, February 13 Where: Sheraton Hotel
1. Bridget Galatas, Donna Klein, speaker Suzanne Whitaker and Rebecca Nordgren 2. Janie Glade, Toya Barnes-Teamer, Barbara Turner Windhorst and Holly Haag 3. Valerie Englade, Glen Golemi, Molly Kimball and Sherry Pinero 4. Christina Sistrunk, Paula Hollowell and Simone Haygood 5. Cheryl Braud, Marlene Trainor, Julie Lea, Gigi Saak and Lydia Days 6. Gemelle Linzy, Paggy Lee, Denny Bro and Joan Akin
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Photographed by jeff strout
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
1
A Very Merry Un-Birthday The Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera Association celebrated its 30th “Mad Hatter’s Luncheon & Fashion Show.” This spring’s annual “Mad Hatter’s Luncheon & Fashion Show” enjoyed a raucous theme of “Alice’s 30th Un-Birthday Party” to mark the 30th anniversary of the event thrown by the host organization, the Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera Association. Benefiting the New Orleans Opera Association and its Youth Education Program, patrons and sponsors wandered the ballroom of the Hilton Riverside, enjoying Lewis Carroll’s characters and setting brought to life in costume, including the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, Alice, the White Rabbit and the Caterpillar. The patron party was held the previous evening at the Lakeshore home of Gerri and Murray Valene, with edibles provided by the New Orleans Hilton. Guests enjoyed a generous raffle featuring high-end handbags and various Saints players’ paraphernalia, as well as a silent auction and a hat auction. Lunch directly followed the annual fashion show from Saks Fifth Avenue, presenting the newest styles and trends for men and women for spring and summer 2014. Guests were also invited to enter the hat costume contest, judged by local celebrities and renowned artists. Titles awarded included Most Whimsical, Most Beautiful, Best Ensemble, Festive Fascinator and more. n
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event at a glance What: “Mad Hatter’s Luncheon & Fashion Show,” benefiting the Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera Association When: Tuesday, March 11 Where: New Orleans Hilton Riverside Hotel
1. Denise Trahant, Gayle Benson, Steven Putt and Mary Katherine Tusa 2. Mary Dana Dandry and Kathleen Halm-Simmons 3. Evanne Casson with Dr. Byron and Suzanne Scott 4. Kriss Fairbairn Fortunato with Gail and Dr. Warren McKenna Jr. and Jean Rice 5. Joe Young, Erin Fleming and Ranney Mize 6. Alice in Wonderland characters
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Photographed by jeff strout
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
1
Delightful Donors The Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans’ “Goldring-Woldenberg Major Donor Dinner.” On January 30, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans held its fourth annual “Goldring-Woldenberg Major Donor Dinner” at the Windsor Court Hotel. Fêting 63 major donors of the Federation’s Annual Campaign who were in attendance, the black-tie affair was hosted by Darryl and Louellen Berger and the Windsor Court Hotel. The intimate setting by the hotel featured ivory linens and tea rose centerpieces in varying pastel shades. Edibles included a salad of colorful heirloom tomatoes and mozzarella, sea bass with a citrus beurre blanc with a celeriac purée and quinoa, and mignardises alongside bananas Foster bread pudding from the kitchens of the hotel. Also available was an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and wine provided by Alan and Diane Franco. Chaired by Dr. Julius and Donna Levy, and Robin Levy and Bobby Garon, guests enjoyed music by cellist Daniel Lelchuk and pianist Diana Aidos. Notable guests included current president of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans Morton Katz and his wife Carole Katz, immediate past president Alan Franco and wife Diane Franco and 2014 Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans Annual Campaign co-chairs Susan Good with husband Lou Good and Brian Katz with wife Lisa Katz. n
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event at a glance What: “Goldring-Woldenberg Major Donor Dinner,” benefiting the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans When: Thursday, January 30 Where: Windsor Court Hotel
1. President Morton Katz with chairs Donna and Dr. Julius Levy and Bobby Garon 2. Hosts Darryl and Louellen Berger with Diane and Alan Franco 3. Dr. Kurt Gitter with Ana and Dr. Juan Gershanik and Alice Yelen Gitter
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Photographed by Kenny Martinez
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
1
30 Years of Care The NO/Aids Task Force celebrated its 30th anniversary in style. On the evening of Friday, February 7, the NO/AIDS Task Force celebrated its 30th anniversary with cocktails, dinner and dancing at the Westin Hotel. A United Way Partner Agency, the NO/AIDS Task Force continues to enjoy its success this year in their mission to reduce the spread of HIV infection, provide services, advocate empowerment, safeguard the rights and dignity of HIV-affected individuals and provide for an enlightened public. Chaired by Dr. Troy Scroggins and hosted by Bryan Batt, speakers included Carol Pindaro, Lucy Cordts and CEO Noel Twilbeck. Twilbeck took the opportunity to announce the NO/AIDS Task Force’s newest initiative, CrescentCare. CrescentCare, a family of Federally Qualified Health Centers, will improve access to high quality, patientcentered healthcare in the greater New Orleans area. Currently CrescentCare’s first location is set to open at 3308 Tulane Ave. in June and plans to offer comprehensive health services to individuals regardless of health, insurance status or ability to pay. Planned services include general primary care, behavioral health services, obstetrics and gynecology and general dentistry services. “The healthcare landscape is changing dramatically,” Twilbeck commented during the announcement. “We are responding now to the need of the larger community for quality, comprehensive medical care. In 30 years of service, we’ve learned a great deal. We’re now in a position to take this great knowledge and best practices out to the larger population in need.” n
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event at a glance What: “NO/AIDS 30th Anniversary Gala Dinner” When: Friday, February 7 Where: The Westin Hotel
1. Poppy Tooker and 30th Anniversary Chairman Dr. Troy Scroggins Jr. 2. Ashton Sloan and David Wright 3. Freddie Perriott, Chet Pourciau and Patrick Miller
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Photographed by jeff strout
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
1
Guided by the Light “An Evening Benefitting Louisiana Lighthouse” The evening of Tuesday, March 18, saw the annual gala ”An Evening Benefitting Louisiana Lighthouse,” celebrating the organization formerly known as Lighthouse for the Blind in New Orleans at Arnaud’s Restaurant. More than 108 guests attended the evening presented by Postlewaite and Netterville and enjoyed copious amounts of delectable edibles courtesy of Arnaud’s, such as tuna tartare, turtle soup, shrimp Clemenceau, pork tenderloin, bananas Foster, ice cream bonbons, chocolate and cayenne cocktail cookies and salted caramel squares. Attendees enjoyed the jazzy music of the Gumbo Pot Trio and an extensive silent auction featuring beautifully glazed ceramics created exclusively for the event by Lighthouse Louisiana’s visually impaired clients. Perfect Presentations provided floral arrangements of reds and whites, and raffle winners received items such as a Cartier Tank watch and a home dinner for eight by an Arnaud’s chef. The evening also employed the increasingly popular wine pull, offering 70 chances to win a bottle of wine ranging in value from $20 to $120. The gala raised more than $85,000, which went to the efforts of the organization in connecting people who are blind, deaf or have other disabilities with jobs and classes to increase their independence and self-sufficiency. n
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event at a glance What: “An Evening Benefitting Louisiana Lighthouse” When: Tuesday, March 18 Where: Arnaud’s Restaurant
1. Jane Casbarian, Johnny Lopez and Katy Casbarian 2. Lonnie Stockwell, Bill Price, Tabatha George and Charlie Marts 3. Stephanie Benedetti with Jon and Nancy Packard
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Photographed by jeff strout
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
1
Hail Fellows Well Met The New Orleans Museum of Art celebrated its annual “Fellows Dinner.” The evening of February 8 saw the annual New Orleans Museum of Art “Fellows Dinner” graced with 200 guests to witness the presentation of the 2014 Isaac Delgado Memorial Award. Presented by Susan M. Taylor, the Montine McDaniel Freeman Director, David F. Edwards, President of the Board of Trustees and the staff of NOMA, the evening included a dinner with a cocktail hour beforehand and musical entertainment by the Dominic Minx Trio. An annual event, the “Fellows Dinner” is NOMA’s opportunity to thank generous donors for their support over the past year. In 1975, the dinner began to also mark the presentation of the Isaac Delgado Memorial Award to an individual whose long-term service, support and dedication sets the precedent for the institution. The identity of the winner is always a secret until the dinner, and this year the award was presented to H.M. “Tim” Favrot Jr., a member of the board since the 1980s who was involved with the planning and execution of the 1991 building addition. He also recently created the Favrot Architecture and Design Endowment, which will allow NOMA to continue to challenge and enhance the traditional museum experience and make the extensive permanent collection one of the most visible and responsive in the country. n
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event at a glance What: “Fellows Dinner,” presented by the New Orleans Museum of Art When: Saturday, February 8 Where: New Orleans Museum of Art
1. Walda and Sydney Besthoff 2. Blair and Sybil Favrot, Director Susan Taylor and Board President David Edwards 3. Aimee and Mike Siegel with Julie and Ted George
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Photographed by jeff strout
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philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
Congratulating the Cowens
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The New Orleans chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women presented the “Hannah G. Solomon Award.” The ladies of the New Orleans chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women took the opportunity to present the Hannah G. Solomon Award to community activist Marjorie and Tulane University president Dr. Scott Cowen at a luncheon ceremony in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton Riverside on this past February 3. More than 150 guests witnessed the award presented to the Cowens by event chair Shellye Farber for their dedication to the community, civic engagement and willingness to act as catalysts for change. Since 1966, the award has been given to individuals who embody the qualities that Solomon, founder of the National Council of Jewish Women, prized so highly. Among the guests were past Hannah G. Solomon Award winners, including Myra Soboloff, Joan Berenson and Flo Schornstein. The National Council of Jewish Women, founded in 1893, is the oldest women’s volunteer organization in the country. New Orleans’ chapter began in 1897 and has contributed to many programs and organizations since its inception. More recent projects include co-operation with Fox 8 for Fox 8 Defenders, the New Orleans Family Justice Center and programs promoting children’s literacy in conjunction with the New Orleans Public Library. n
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event at a glance What: “Hannah G. Solomon Award Luncheon,” benefiting the New Orleans chapter of the National Council of Jewish women When: Monday, February 3 Where: Hilton Riverside, Grand Ballroom
1. Honorees Marjorie and Dr. Scott Cowen with Chair Shellye Farber and NCJW President June Leopold 2. Diane Franco, Rollie Rabin, Barbara Greenberg and Vivian Cahn 3. Honoree Dr. Scott Cowen and Rabbi David Goldstein
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Photographed by michael maples
philanthropic fun
By Lexi Wangler
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Shoot to Cure The Chartwell Center’s “Louisiana Sporting Clays Classic Fun Shoot.” The Chartwell Center hosted its annual “Louisiana Sporting Clays Classic Fun Shoot” the weekend of February 7 and 8. For more than 10 years the Chartwell Center has been hosting this clay shooting event in which participants move from stand to stand and shoot clay targets that are thrown in the air t a variety of angles and speeds. The scoring is done in such a way that inexperienced and experienced participants can compete fairly and without advantage. Proceeds go to the efforts of New Orleans’ Chartwell Center, the unique provider of best-practice autism educational methods in the community and furthering their mission of providing autism-specific education for children aged 3 and up, and to procure training for educators, administrators and professionals. Autism, the Chartwell Center reports, affects one in every 36 children, and it costs the Center $36,000 to educate even one. More than 100 guests participated in the two-day event, enjoying edibles from Benz Catering, Langenstein’s and Crescent Crown for Friday night, themed Cajun Night, with lunch the following day prepared by the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Department. n
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event at a glance What: “Louisiana Sporting Clays Classic Fun Shoot,” benefiting The Chartwell Center When: Friday & Saturday, February 7-8 Where: Belle Chasse
1. Hosts Peter and Diane Labouisse with Pat and George Sustendal 2. Rick and Mili Doskey with Linda and Tommy Westfeldt 3. James Favrot, Sheila Kuebel and David Schulingkamp
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Photographed by Kenny Martinez
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Encore! The Past Social Season in Review From black-tie to barbecue by Marilee Hovet
So many memorable parties have come and gone in the past year. Did you hear the famous Gospel Soul Children at “Soul Revival?” Perhaps you were there for the al fresco seated dinner in the Botanical Garden. Did you roll up your sleeves and roast a pig at “Hogs for the Cause?” Or maybe you went to the other extreme and donned your best tiara for the magnificent “An Evening Inspired by Downton Abbey” party. The possibilities are endless. All of those parties, as well as dozens
of others this year, were fantastic. But they weren’t just fun parties (although they were, indeed, fun by all accounts). Along with many others, these events have raised millions of dollars for our local nonprofit agencies. Leave it to the people of New Orleans to merge generosity and party-going in such a strikingly successful way. While thinking about New Orleans’ unique talent for throwing a good party, I began wondering about fundraisers in other cities — does every
city have as many as we do? I decided to take a poll. Perhaps I should note that, because my poll consisted of chatting with several friends who live in other cities, my results are not statistically sound. They are, however, quite telling. Based on this (highly unscientific) survey of my friends from other cities, I gathered that they generally attend one or two fundraisers a year. When I posed the same question here in New Orleans, let me just say that the numbers were distinctly different.
We are very clearly a city of generous and community-minded people, and we have scores of successful fundraisers to prove it. The calendar of events listed in a year St. Charles Avenue magazines include well over 100 fundraisers. There is absolutely something for everyone, and with even a quick glance at the Registry of Charitable Events, printed three times a year, it isn’t at all difficult to find a fundraiser that fits both one’s budget and one’s philanthropic desires.
“A Vintage Affair for MS”
“Fall Gala”
“Magic in the Moonlight”
The best fundraisers are often those for which the event itself springs from the mission of the nonprofit. “Dress For Success,” for example, strives to “promote the economic independence of women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and life.” What better way to highlight that mission than the “Suits and Salads Luncheon?” The luncheon brings together the various aspects of the organization’s mission by including individuals who have benefited from Dress for Success in the event and by spotlighting its Magazine Street boutique, to which the proceeds are donated. The Edible Schoolyard New Orleans achieves
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“Magic in the Moonlight”
a similarly synergistic effect through its “Edible Evening” event. “Changing the way children eat, learn and live” is the goal of the organization, and the event both takes place in and features produce from the garden. The successful linking of mission and event, in that it both informs and engages patrons, is one of the key ingredients in the most successful fundraisers. Entertainment is yet another factor in creating a memorable event. The “Whitney Zoo-To-Do” and “Soul Revival” are clear standouts when it comes to entertainment. With several bands on hand at each of these events, there’s never a dull moment at either. From the time of its inception, the “Whitney
Zoo-To-Do” has been a smash hit and has raised over $30 million for the invaluable Audubon Nature Institute. With a great mix of bands through the years, from the Temptations to The Village People and everything in between, it’s no surprise that people from all over Louisiana flock to the “Whitney Zoo-To-Do.” “Soul Revival,” a benefit for the Legacy Donor Foundation, is widely known to be one of the most fun parties of the year – due in no small part to the lineup of bands. This year’s performers included the awe-inspiring New Orleans Gospel Soul Children, the Kinfolk Brass Band and the Benchwarmers. If you’re looking for a big event that raises money for an important cause, neither of
those parties will disappoint. Homegrown entertainment is another fundraiser favorite. Living in a city that seems to breed more than its fair share of artists and musicians has many advantages, one of which is that there’s never a shortage of talent. In fact, the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts was founded in order to provide preprofessional arts training to our city’s budding writers, artists and performers. Wynton and Branford Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr. and Terence Blanchard are but a few of NOCCA’s graduates; given its extraordinary talent pool, its only fitting that NOCCA’s “Art & Soul” gala features performances by students, faculty and alumni. Though not through the
“An Evening Inspired by Downton Abbey”
the m o s t list Most Elegant: “Fall Gala”
celebrating the Historic Houses Society
performing arts, the participants of the Young Aspirations|Young Artists programs are featured prominently at their fundraiser as well. A multi-faceted youth empowerment program, YAYA gives young artists “the tools and the savvy to become professionally successful artists, while instilling in them skills useful in general life endeavors as well.” In keeping with its mission, the “Just Say YAYA” benefit gives its young artists an important opportunity to interact with YAYA patrons. So if you’d like to find one event at which you can add to your art collection, support a local nonprofit, and help foster the talent of a young artist, look no further – just say YAYA. Among the long list of fundraisers in New Orleans, several stand out as perennial favorites. “This is my favorite party of the year” is perhaps the phrase most often overheard at the New Orleans Museum of Art during the preview party for “Art In Bloom” (second only to “how did they do that with flowers?”). An astonishing display of creativity and floral talent, “Art in Bloom” is always a blockbuster. The preview party and auction are superb, not to mention that the lectures and luncheon sell out every year. The fashion show, presented by “Art In Bloom” sponsor Saks Fifth
Avenue, has become a must-see event. The generous team at Saks Fifth Avenue also stages a wildly popular fashion show for the “Mad Hatter’s Luncheon.” Hosted by The Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera Association, the “Mad Hatter’s Luncheon” is an event for which attendees start planning long in advance. (If you’ve ever seen the level of intricacy involved in the designing of some of the award-winning hats, you’ll understand the need for advance planning.) Between the hat contest (including the coveted Mad Hatter’s Choice award) and the Alice In Wonderland costumes, the event is a whimsical and fun favorite. For those of you who are hoping for a little star-gazing to go along with your charitable donation, there are a couple of options: “Magic In The Moonlight” and the “Make It Right Gala.” The former is a seated dinner under the stars benefiting the New Orleans Botanical Garden Foundation. The latter, needless to say, is the star-studded event benefiting Brad Pitt’s Make it Right Foundation. Though relatively new to the fundraiser calendar, “Magic In The Moonlight” has quickly become so popular that you must buy your tickets as soon as they’re available; it’s a sold out event every year. The New Orleans
Most Creative: “Just Say
YAYA” benefiting Young Aspirations|Young Artists Most Musical: “Soul Revival”
benefiting Legacy Donor Foundation Most Inspiring: “A Vintage Affair
for MS” benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Most Festive: “Holiday Home
Tour” benefiting the Preservation Resource Center Most Fetching: “Howling Success”
benefiting the Louisiana SPCA Most Peripatetic: “Sentimental
Journeys” benefiting Longue Vue House & Gardens Most Glam: “O What a Night”
benefiting The Ogden Museum of Southern Art Most Posh: “An Evening Inspired
by Downton Abbey” benefiting WYES Most Luminous: “Magic in the
Moonlight” benefiting the New Orleans Botanical Garden Foundation Most Florid: “Art in Bloom”
benefiting the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Garden Study Club of New Orleans Most Sartorial: “Suits & Salads
Luncheon” benefiting Dress for Success Most Heartfelt: “Heart & Soul
Gala” benefiting the American Heart Association Most Illuminating: “An Evening
Benefiting Lighthouse Louisiana” Most Important: ”Crimestoppers
Carnivale” benefiting Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans Most Wild: “Whitney Zoo-To-Do”
benefiting Audubon Zoo Most Literary: Tennessee
Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival Most Charming: “Juleps in June”
benefiting the Faulkner Society Most Southern: “Sippin’ in
Seersucker” benefiting The Ogden Museum of Southern Art Most Refreshing: “Edible Evening”
benefiting Edible Schoolyard Most Contemporary:
“SweetArts Ball” benefiting the Contemporary Arts Center Most Artsy: “LOVE in the Garden”
benefiting New Orleans Museum of Art Most Dazzling: “Make It Right
Gala” benefiting the Make It Right Foundation Most Dramatic: “Art & Soul”
benefiting the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts Most Humorous: “Cochon
Cotillion” benefiting Bridge House/Grace House Most Kid Friendly: “CHAIRish the
Children” benefiting the Louisiana Children’s Museum And Last But Not Least … The Sweetest: “Sugarplum Ball”
benefiting Children’s Hospital The Smokiest: “Hogs for the
Cause”
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Botanical Garden is arguably one of the prettiest spots in town (if you’ve never been, you’re in for a treat). With long tables set amidst the hedges of the garden and twinkling lights that seem to be floating down from the oak trees, this party is absolutely stunning. For star sightings of another sort, the Make It Right Foundation’s gala is the place to be. The line-up for the 2014 gala included Chris Rock, Kings of Leon and Bruno Mars. The 2012 event, attended by a bevy of stars including Kanye West, Rihanna and Ellen DeGeneres, raised something in the neighborhood of $4 million. Since its founding in 2007, Make it Right has built 100 affordable, durable, eco-friendly houses in the Lower 9th Ward. Star-studded and successful, the “Make It Right Gala” lends a touch of extra glamour to the New Orleans fundraising circuit. If a glamorous (though slightly less Hollywood-centric) evening is what you’re hoping to find, our city’s museums host fabulous events. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s cleverly named “O What a Night Gala” is easily one of the year’s most notable events. With its double parties (the patron party held each year at a private residence is on Friday night and the gala fundraiser is at the Ogden on the following night), the event continually raises the bar for New Orleans fundraisers. While “O What a Night” is still in its early years, NOMA’s “Odyssey Ball,” on the other hand, is nearly 50 years old. At just over 100 years old, NOMA bears the distinction of being the oldest fine arts institution in the city. With the added twist of a different theme each year, the “Odyssey Ball” is an exciting and eagerly anticipated evening. Inspired by the legendary “Black and White Ball” hosted by Truman Capote at the Plaza Hotel in 1966, the 2013 “Black & White Odyssey” was an 46 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
enchanting and elegant evening According to its website, as many (this in spite of the fact that the as 2 million young people find LSU-Alabama game was being themselves homeless each year— broadcast on the big screen TV in and that’s just in the United States. the Junior Patron Lounge). The 2013 “Sleep Out” raised more It would take much more time than $200,000 that will benefit the and many more pages to touch on homeless youth in New Orleans. all of the worthy fundraisers in “A Night in the Garden of Eden” New Orleans. I could fill an entire is yet another fundraiser that page just on the phenomenon benefits individuals in crisis. The that is “Hogs For The Cause.” The event raises funds for Eden House, turnout this year was astounding – and in the “Hogs for the Cause” mud, no less. Proceeds from the event provide financial relief to the families of children who are undergoing pediatric brain cancer. Founded just six years ago, it has been an unmitigated success. The crowds have grown steadily since its inception, with a record breaking 20,000 people in attendance this year. To create an event that generates a crowd that size in only six years is nothing short of extraordinary. And, let’s be honest, turning barbecuing into a competitive activity is perhaps the most ingenious way imaginable to draw men into the world of fundraising. Though smaller in size than a residential program that serves the pig roast for 20,000 people, women who have been victims there are a number of equally of human trafficking. And last but impressive events that support by no means least, the “Get Fired the much-needed social services Up for Kingsley House” event is in our city. Easily the most unique in that there’s no set ticket poignant is the “Sleep Out for price (though guests are asked Covenant House.” On November to make a donation at the door). 14, 2013, a group of 93 individuals Kingsley House is a multi-faceted voluntarily slept out on the street agency that serves people of all to raise awareness and money for ages. From its nationally accredited the young people in New Orleans early childhood programs, to after who don’t have a home. Covenant school enrichment programs for House provides a safe haven teens and adult services programs for at-risk and homeless youth for senior citizens, Kingsley House between the ages of 16 and 21. enriches the lives of entire families
– and even entire communities. An impressive and truly exceptional organization, Kingsley House is one of the South’s preeminent social services institutions. There is, without a doubt, something for everyone in the fundraising world of New Orleans. I would challenge any other city to match the sheer enthusiasm with which we
approach charitable giving, not only in planning events but in generously supporting them as well. Whether you are interested in the most glamorous event or the least glamorous, the most expensive ticket in town or the no-cost ticket, black-tie or barbecue, there’s always an avenue for your charitable giving, and there’s always a way for you to make an impact. Open your calendar and start planning your schedule; I’m already hearing a buzz about a few of next season’s events! n
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Kids’ Choice Today’s kids have fashion at their fingertips, and many have strong opinions about what they want to wear. With looks like these, all available locally, coming up with a look you can both agree on is a snap. styled by Vesta Fort photographs Theresa Cassagne
Aztec printed maxi dress by Flowers by Zoe shown with Hudson denim vest and beaded necklaces with neon fringe from
B.Kids. 115 Metairie Road, Metairie, 301-2954
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Seersucker short suit by CdeC paired with a local Sarah Ott’s cool tee from
Angelique Kids. 5519 Magazine St., 899-8992, AngeliqueKids.com
Rainbow seersucker sundress by Girl from
Banbury Cross. 100 Atherton Drive, Metairie, 837-0447 BanburyCrossOnline.com
Rosebud printed cotton dress by Sarah Louise from Haase’s.
8119 Oak St., New Orleans, 866-9944 Haases.com
Pirate themed swim trunks and matching shirt from
Orient Expressed. 3905 Magazine St., 899-3060 OrientExpressed.com
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Sleeveless shirtwaist dress with chambray skirt by Anthem of the Arts from
Mignon for Children. 2727 Prytania St., 891-2374
Vibrant green and turquoise Lily dress available at
Perlis. 6070 Magazine St., 600 Decatur St., 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, Perlis.com
Twill shorts and plaid shirt by Tea from Swap for Kids.
7716 Maple St., 304-6025, SwapBoutique.com
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Easy Updates to Total Renovation Local suppliers and design experts share tips for your kitchens and bathrooms. by Kelcy Wilburn | photographs cheryl gerber
Cabinets, countertops, flooring and walls – these are only a few components to two of the most used rooms in a house, rooms that often require the biggest investments. Appliances, window treatments, linens, art and accessories also factor into the mix, and every part, even seemingly small, can make a dramatic difference to the look and feel of a room. Those looking to freshen up a kitchen and/or bath have a variety of options to choose from, and local professionals offer tips and advice for both easy updates and complete re-dos.
One of the easiest updates, according to Blythe Wren of Wren’s Tontine Shade & Design is simply updating your window treatments. “It’s very easy to take down your old drapes or blinds and replace them with something new – there’s no demolition or need to tear something out. There’s no big mess,” says Wren. Wren stresses the added benefit of giving a room a new look while in some cases improving the functionality of the treatment. “For bathrooms, the ‘Top Down Bottom Up’ shades are gaining in popularity for their functionality,” she says. “People want to be able to enjoy the privacy that a low shade offers while still being able to see the trees and sky out of the top of their window, which also provides more light.” 52 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
Lee McKee, owner of The Linen Registry, also offers tips on easy
updates to a bathroom or kitchen. “For the bath, the best way to make a quick change is through your accessories, such as a decorative bathmat with towels in a coordinating color,” says McKee. Other options include introducing a new wastebasket, boutique tissue box and soap pump container from an artisan collection crafted of materials such as marble, leather, tooled metals, crystal or capiz. In kitchens, McKee suggests sprucing things up with a festive centerpiece on the island or kitchen table, colorful napkins and “sassy” placemats to turn heads. One of her favorite accessories is the European Tea towel (aka kitchen towel), which is a versatile item that can
Ashley Hall Interiors Wallpapers
add a pop of color to a room. McKee also stresses the need to match wall or paint colors with existing materials so that you aren’t hard-pressed to find furniture and accessories to match your walls. “Rugs are a great way to anchor any space, even a kitchen or bath,” says Beth Assaf, owner of Rug Chic. The variety of palettes and designs can help define a room’s colors and feel, whether classic or contemporary. In addition to hand-knotted and indoor/outdoor rugs, Rug Chic offers unique accessories, original art, fine home furnishings from Lee Industries and Baker, outdoor furniture, lighting and antiques. Assaf has seen a growing trend in people using antique chests and cabinets in updating their bath-
rooms by outfitting them with sinks, thereby creating unique vanities in both bathroom suites and smaller powder rooms. Lindsay Swenson, General Manager of Floor & Decor Design Gallery, echoes the need to anchor a room’s color in materials rather than choosing a wall color first. “Nothing is worse than trying to decorate around a paint color when paint is so easy and cheap to change,” says Swenson. In rooms such as kitchens, Swenson suggests shopping for the most expensive items first – countertops and cabinets – before working your way out to the most available and less expensive items such as tile and paint. When asked about a quick update for a kitchen, Swenson suggests a tile backsplash up to the cabinets
for homeowners with a standard four-inch bump-up backsplash. “Removing the existing backsplash is ideal, but if that’s not possible we can help pick out the perfect tile to complement. This is an easy do-it-yourself weekend project,” she says. Another quick option for any room is to pick a focal wall and tile the whole thing with something bold and eye-catching. Using bold colors is also a trend noticed by Shauna Leftwich, Designer at Ashley Hall Interiors. “People are beginning to put color back into their worlds – things were so white for a long time,” says Leftwich. “One of the nicest, easiest things you can do is add wallpaper, which is making a big comeback with a wide range of colors and patterns.” Leftwich says bathrooms account for about 70 percent of today’s wallpaper recipients, although people are increasingly being more adventurous with it. For those doing larger scale updates, i.e. total bathroom renovations, Leftwich recommends considering a heated floor. This past winter, after recently completing a bathroom redo in her own home, Leftwich enjoyed the benefits of a new heating system beneath her travertine. When considering a complete renovation of a room or house, all of the professionals agree that excessive planning will offer the best results and be the most cost efficient. “Select all of your finishes before the renovation begins,” says Jeff Taafe, Outside Sales Manager with Palatial Stone & Tile. “Once any new work is started, like framing, electrical and plumbing, your options are being limited with every second that passes.” Taafe recommends managing the stress by getting answers on details in advance, and if you’re not sure what details will need addressing, ask a professional. “Our team has four members
in sales between two showrooms, one in Harvey and one in Covington. Our skillsets allow us to take on a large number of projects at any size and deliver on-time service,” says Taafe. With a variety of choices in style and prices, Palatial Stone & Tile stocks and sells just about anything made in natural stone or tile, not only flooring and countertops. Countertops are the main focus of Chris Marques, owner of Marques Countertops. According to Marques, whether in a renovation or a new build, choosing and installing countertops can be a painless process if planned the right way. At his company, advanced technology allows customers to see the various countertop cuts that can be created from one slab. For instance, if certain slabs features significant movement, customers can see where the cuts and seams can be made to present the best countertop for their kitchen or bath. “We have a fully automated shop, where everything we do is computer aided,” says Marques. “We make sure there are no surprises by laying it all out for the customer.” Marques Countertops keeps inventory of stones they use regularly. Much of their supply comes from Brazil, Italy or India, and special imports and orders are possible. In addition to natural stone, they also fabricate and install quartz, recycled glass and man-made acrylics, although the latter is used mostly commercially. Knowing what products are available is an important part of the planning process in a renovation, as trends and technologies are always on the move. “There’s so much new product coming onto the market at any given time that it really behooves a customer to meet with someone in the middle of it who knows the trends and products,” says Randall Shaw, President of Nordic Kitchen & Bath. “A professional who does it
every day can guide you through new products such as coffeemakers and sous-vide water ovens.” A mid- to high-end kitchen and bath dealer, Nordic Kitchen & Bath sells appliances and cabinets while also offering design services. “We can do as little or as much as is needed,” says Shaw. Outdoor kitchens are one of the biggest trends hitting Nordic, as more people want to take advantage of New Orleans’ outdoor-friendly weather. From small to large installations, Shaw has seen everything from beer taps and wine fridges to pizza ovens, kamado cookers, Kalamazoo hybrid grills and stainless cabinetry. Also a provider of design services, Northshore Millwork creates high quality custom cabinetry and architectural millwork all built locally in Mandeville. A family-owned business now in its third and fourth generations, Northshore Millwork specializes in kitchen and baths along with radius architectural millwork and custom built-ins. “We are seeing simplicity in kitchen and bath cabinetry and overall design in a more contemporary feel,” says Julie Philippus, Vice President & General Manager. “The majority of the cabinets we’re manufacturing lately are painted or glazed in warm, light colors such as cream, gray or beige, and we’re seeing less stained cabinets as a trend on both the Southshore and Northshore. For those looking to renew current cabinets, Philippus suggests replacing cabinet knobs and pulls with hardware in a new finish and adding matching sink and faucet fixtures as well. Interior designer Rivers Spencer, owner of Rivers Spencer Interiors, seconds these types of easy updates, and in addition to changing cabinet pulls, Spencer suggests painting the cabinets, placing a new pendant light above an island, or even adding new barstools. Spencer herself has
Palatial Stone
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Nordic Kitchen and Bath
Linen Registry
designed a line of simple-backed stools with gold or silver leaf neutral finishes. “My philosophy is keep it updated but also clean, tailored and sophisticated. You can achieve that with materials that aren’t the most high-end as long as you stick to neutrality and clean lines,” she says. Echoing the trend that Philippus mentioned, Spencer leans toward neutral colors that will be timeless and aesthetic. For an impactful change, she suggests changing a countertop to a clean Carrara marble (give this diligent planning – white marble can stain) or add a backsplash of plain white subway tile. Light, neutral colors are also being used in closets, according to Don Wise, owner of Louisiana Custom Closets. Many people are using lighter color material to brighten up rooms, a lot of offwhite and grays, whether in 54 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
closets, pantries, laundry rooms or home offices. Don Wise has been designing closets for nearly 20 years. A new trend he has noticed in houses with tall ceilings is the functionality of triple hanging to maximize space. Louisiana Custom Closets also utilizes advanced technology and software to create computergenerated images and designs for customers, and each closet is custom-built in their warehouse. Another trend, noted by Richard Woods, owner of Albany Woodworks, Inc., is utilizing existing details in the home to add unique flair to a room. “In many New Orleans homes, there are original architectural elements that date to the turnof-the-century or older. The level of craftsmanship used to build these 1800s to early 1900s era homes is truly something to be admired and appreciated,” says
Woods. He encourages customers to make use of what they have as a starting point, and then utilize Albany’s services to match their flooring and millwork. A supplier of traditional plank flooring, beams, posts, casings, doors and plantation-style shutters, Albany Woodworks can add small or large architectural elements to change the look of a room. One recent customer remarked, “The quality is so wonderful that people are shocked to learn the wood is not original to our circa 1860s home.” No matter the change you make to your kitchen and bath – whether a simple color change or an all-out revamp of the space – every professional emphasizes planning and research. Doing your homework will go a long way in making the process as smooth as possible and cause fewer delays or budgetary pitfalls down the road. n
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entertaining with bev
By BEV CHURCH
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Entertaining in the Garden Local retailers make it easy to personalize your outdoor soirée. It is the perfect time of year to entertain guests in the garden or out by the pool. I went to three of my favorite stores – Judy at the Rink, Orient Expressed and perch. – and collected items that would whet your appetite for your next intimate soirée. I first want to thank Bill and 56 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
Pam Ryan for all of their help and for allowing us to photograph in their beautiful garden! We set up a buffet table from Orient Expressed and added a long banana runner to the table. We took a whitewashed candlestick and added flowers paved in a
square piece of oasis and placed on top where a candle would have gone. Shrimp salad was served in a Beatriz Ball serving platter and sliced avocados and onion slices on the other Beatriz Ball serving dish. The Abagail soup tureen contained a smoked tomato and basil soup. We used a pouf to place the orange napkins with the Lucite napkin holders with flowers. We also used their hammered silverware and serving pieces. Perch. has an assortment of neat looking plastic glasses and plates that are fabulous for outdoor parties. Their stackable chairs in white are so easy to keep clean, and of course I had to add some of their huge faux flowers as chair-back bouquets. Just tie them with ribbons and add a name so guests know where they are sitting. We used a woolen throw for the
tablecloth, Le Jacquard dishtowels with bracelets for napkin rings and the dinner napkins and three aqua clear vases filled with yellow calla lilies for the centerpiece. Judy at the Rink has a number of different local artists to choose from – including Monet France, Steve Hasslock and Elaine Gleason – but we decided on plates and a fish pitcher by Nick Vietri, which we filled with roses and sunflowers. As a favor, we found paintings of famous New Orleans restaurants by Jax and small colorful polka-dot pots filled with faux flowers. The hand-painted glasses by Susie Spaag have everything from snowballs to red beans on them. All of these stores have many more fabulous items to choose from, so check them out and create your own outdoor party! n
1 & 2: Orient Expressed Buffet 3: Judy at the Rink Casual Lunch in the Garden 4 & 5: perch. Early Dinner by the Pool
linda r. bjork photographs
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WITH THIS RING
By Mallory Lindsly
Tennison-Bush In June 2008, Margaret “Margo” Marie Tennison and Curtis Anderson Bush met in Washington D.C. at a fundraising event for a mutual friend. He called her the next day to ask her out. Two weeks after meeting, he brought her to dinner and then to a popular Georgetown bar. They dated for the next few years until Curtis finished his residency at Georgetown University while Margo worked in a political fundraising job. Curtis then moved to Greenville, South Carolina, for a sports medicine fellowship and Margo moved to Dallas, Texas. The two dated long distance until Curtis got a job in Forth Worth, Texas. Memorial Day 2013, Curtis purchased a house and asked Margo to help him unload the remaining boxes. Afterward, they went out to the new patio. He told her that he had one last box for her to open, and when she turned around Curtis was down on one knee proposing. After the reception, the newlyweds traveled to the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii for a week. The two are currently living in Forth Worth, Texas where he’s an orthopedic surgeon with Orthopedic Specialty Associates and Margo is the marketing and communications manager for the Child Study Center.
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Bride: Margaret “Margo” Marie Tennison Groom: Curtis Anderson Bush Bride’s Parents: Mrs. Margaret Penn Farrell, Mr. Porter Farrell II and Mr. Lee Lupton Tennison Groom’s Parents: Mrs. Barbara Gott Bush and Mr. Albert Peyton Bush III Date of Wedding: March 22, 2014 Ceremony Location: St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church Reception Location: New Orleans Country Club Coordinator: Sara Fay Egan, Dallas, Texas Celebrant: Rev. Don Frampton and Rev. Edwin Barnett Ceremony Music: Steven Blackmon Wedding Gown: Vera Wang Maids of Honor: Courtney Lee Tennison and Callie Lupton Tennison Bridesmaids: Lauren Thomas Bredthauer, Mary Benton Caughman, Jordan Buckalew Glasgow, Courtney Elizabeth Sanders, Lauren Griffin Hamel, Amanda Buchanan Hand, Sarah Goff Klaus, Margaret Hickman Lane, Margaret Taylor Morgan, Martha Lindsay Nahoum, Mary Bennett Rehfeldt, Mary Marshall Smith, Caroline Kemble Stephens, Ashley Brown Waldeck and Whitney Newton Wynne Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Their own dresses Flower Girl: Charlotte Elizabeth Bush Ring Bearers: Albert Peyton Bush V, Harlan Thomas Bush Jr. and Brooks Anderson Bush Groom’s Attire: J.Hilburn tuxedo Best Men: Kenneth Taylor Beery and Albert Peyton Bush III Groomsmen: Albert Peyton Bush IV and Harlan Thomas Bush Ushers: David Leslie Bowlin Jr., Andrew Mason Brent Jr., Robert Massey Fairnholt, Webb Baynham Milward, Richard Harrison Ramsey, John Sherman III, Taylor Hardage Smith, David Gordon Sutton Jr., John Derek Victory and Christopher David Wood Groomsmen’s and Ushers’ attire: Classic tuxedo Florist: Jackson Durham Floral & Event Design, Dallas, Texas Invitation: Ellis Hill, Dallas, Texas Caterer: New Orleans Country Club Wedding Cake: Bittersweet Confections Groom’s Cake: Blue Dot Donuts Photographer: Kristen Peelle Photography, San Diego, California Music: Simply Irresistible, Atlanta saintcharlesavenue.com | 59
YOUNG BLOODS
By Lindsay Mack
Kickboard
Founder and CEO, Jennifer Medbery
Jennifer Medbery’s journey to the New Orleans educational community took an unusual route. A technology buff, she earned a computer science degree to help solve meaningful problems. After graduation she joined Teach for America, where her time in the middle and high schools of New Orleans gave her insights into the challenges that teachers face. Medbery then utilized her technical skills to help build solutions to these problems. A teacher-friendly program, Kickboard is a web-based software product that provides a 360-degree profile of students. Like the traditional grade book, Kickboard tracks a student’s grades and attendance, but it also records literacy levels, 60 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
learning styles, engagements and interventions. This wealth of information helps teachers make better decisions about teaching students on an individual level. At the end of a lesson, for example, a teacher can easily gather data on students who need additional help, then create a small tutoring group to bring them up to speed. With the availability of data, busy teachers can use their time in a targeted, effective manner. “With a startup, you cannot do everything right away,” Medbery says. She focused on creating the minimal viable product and then worked with six New Orleans schools to determine the best feature set and software design. After ensuring that the
workflow, buttons and visuals were intuitive and easy to use, Kickboard was ready to launch. After starting and growing the program in New Orleans six years ago, Medbery considers the city a fundamental component of her product’s success. She says that “the vibrant, supportive community has served as a fantastic home base” for her nationwide program. Medbery loves hearing Kickboard success stories. Last week, an implementation coach reported that a school outside of Baton Rouge has experienced a fundamental shift in culture. The atmosphere is more positive, greater academic progress has been achieved and negative discipline has decreased by 30 percent. She is quick to praise teachers for this success. “People who use
the tool make that happen.” Medbery has two pieces of advice for fellow entrepreneurs. The first is to listen to your customers, determine what they need and build solutions for these problems. Second, she advises entrepreneurs to persevere. Startups are hard work, and change is difficult – but if you overcome the initial inertia, she says, you can succeed. Ultimately, Medbery hopes Kickboard will create missiondriven, healthy schools where students thrive. She trusts the data-driven approach will help teachers prepare students for state testing and academic success. Furthermore, by monitoring student’s social and emotional skills, teachers can tailor their approach to each pupil. n
For more information on Kickboard, visit KickboardForTeachers.com.
cheryl gerber photograph
student activist
By Mallory Lindsly
Lucy Tucker Lusher Charter School
Lucy Tucker, a recent graduate from Lusher Charter School, has been involved in the development and growth of New Orleans Charter Schools. Before Hurricane Katrina, the public education system in New Orleans was failing its youths. After the storm, Kids Rethink New Orleans Schools, a youth-based nonprofit organization, formed to give young people a voice in restructuring their own education. Tucker joined the organization at the age of 10 to make a difference in her city and in her education. Every summer, Rethink meets to discuss an issue in the public education system – ranging from creating clean, energy efficient facilities to encouraging nonviolent solutions to conflict. At the end of each summer, Rethink hosts a press conference to propose school solutions. Before Katrina, changemakers in the public school system didn’t believe that the students’ opinion mattered – Rethink challenges that opinion by giving students a voice that cannot be denied. “Rethink lit a passion for change within me that extended into many aspects of my life,” says Tucker. “I went to conferences all over the nation discussing our
cheryl gerber photograph
successes in New Orleans. Back at school, however, I kept to myself until I realized that school could also be an arena for activism.” Tucker is highly involved within both the Lusher and the New Orleans communities. She enjoys seeing her activism spread from one person to another. “There’s a certain passion that I see in others as we volunteer together” she says, “a passion that spreads like wildfire.” Mission Ignition, an organization compromised of Lusher Student Government Association and Franklin Student Council, partnered with United Way to host a competition to give back to New Orleans by cleaning up the parks. “There were so many people that I’d never seen at service projects before; students that I know aren’t normally up at nine in the morning on a Saturday,” says Tucker. “I felt like students from every school were realizing we would actually leave this park looking better. It might seem like a small moment, but I felt like activism was spreading.” Tucker’s mother, Claudia Barker, has been her inspiration to become an activist. Barker has always been active in the community, from working in education nonprofits to volunteering at their church, Barker is always giving back whenever she can. “My mom instilled a love of activism and philanthropy that I have carried with me through every aspect of my life,” Tucker says. While at Lusher, Tucker was involved with the Gay-Straight Alliance and the student government as Vice-President. She is attending Smith College next year to major in American Studies with a concentration in Human Rights, and hopes to start a nonprofit that trains youth in nonviolent communication and forms of restorative justice. n
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SHOP TALK
By Mirella Cameran
Jennifer Atkins Co-owner, Angelique Baby
How did you start in the business? I
started one day a week when my child started kindergarten, and then the opportunity came along in 2010 to buy into the business with Angelique Palumbo.
What is special about Angelique Baby?
So many things! We present the Modern South: vintage and modern at once. I draw from France and traveling, and Angelique has an instinctive sense for beautiful things.
Who are your inspirations? My three children: I always tried to dress them to fit their styles and personalities. They are little artists who now like to dress to express. What is your most popular line? The line
Tea; it’s easy and affordable, and kids can live in it.
What are your favorite pieces? Obscure
little ones you can’t find anywhere else; French metallic baby shoes or a hand-embroidered dress.
How do you know what children and parents will like? We listen to both
and we have taken our children to market in New York City!
Are your clothes fashionable or classic?
Angelique has her pulse on the trends and I seek out the unusual, the special and the perennial.
What are you excited about in the store?
Swim goggles with rhinestones and racecar treads, and shimmer sunscreen. The Tea summer collection is great, with easy cotton mix-and-match separates for camp and vacation.
Three best baby gifts? 1) A great Petit Bateau onesie. 2) One of our new swaddle blankets that ‘hug’ the baby and promise sleep for everyone! 3) An indulgent pink tutu; every little girl needs one.
Angelique Baby: 5519 Magazine St., 899-8992, AngeliqueStores.com
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cheryl gerber photographs
SHOP TALK
By Mirella Cameran
Teresa Devlin Marketing Manager, The Historic New Orleans Collection
Why do you do what you do? I love building connections between The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC) and its wonderful audiences. What is special about your job and the THNOC? Many things. We are
fortunate to work in beautifully restored buildings at 533 Royal St. and 410 Chartres St. We have access to remarkable items from this area’s history: original works of art, authentic government documents, military memorabilia and artifacts up to 300 years old, which illustrate what life used to be like in New Orleans, Louisiana and beyond. Tell us three things we wouldn’t know about THNOC? 1) THNOC’s archives,
located at the Williams Research Center, are free and open to the public. 2) The foundation was established in 1966 and our museum has been open since the ‘70s. 3) THNOC has been publishing original works of nonfiction for more than 30 years.
What are you excited about? We have
a diverse and active program. Coming up is our Fine Print Book
Club featuring: Creole World: Photographs of New Orleans and the Latin Caribbean Sphere with author and photographer Richard Sexton. Then we host the New Orleans Antiques Forum (July 31-August 3). And this fall we’re planning programming around our exhibition on the “Boswell Sisters of New Orleans.”
What is your favorite exhibition ever at the THNOC? “In the Spirit: The
Photography of Michael P. Smith” from 2009. Smith was a native of New Orleans and he photographed brass bands, second lines, jazz funerals and Jazz Fest for decades. His work captures the city’s spark and personality.
The Historic New Orleans Collection: 533 Royal St., 523-4662, hnoc.org
cheryl gerber photographs
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snapshots
by Lexi Wangler
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1. On Saturday, March 22, The George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts announced the winners of their fifth annual art contest for seniors and juniors at Louisiana high schools. Finalists from the New Orleans area, Taylor Gonsoulin, Amy Nguyen, Allison Strahan, Hailey DuPont and Kelli Laderer, are pictured above with executive director Jacques Rodrigue of the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts. 2. This year’s art contest theme was “Louisiana’s Natural Beauty,” and winner Audrey Marsh of Baton Rouge, pictured above with Jacque Rodrigue and her winning piece redesigned as a poster for Audubon Nature Institute’s “Whitney Zoo-To-Do,” was selected from a pool of more than 750 students by a panel of celebrity judges. 3. The George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts awarded $50,000 in scholarships to its 21 finalists, pictured above with Jacques Rodrigue. Since the contest’s inception in 2009, over 2,400 students in Louisiana have submitted artwork. 4. On March 20, Tulane University fêted its president of 16 years, Scott Cowen, for his service to the school following the announcement that Cowen, pictured above in conversation with young alumni, will retire on June 30 of this year. “An Evening Honoring President Scott Cowen” took place at the Peristyle and the Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn at City Park. 5. Helping to celebrate the occasion were faculty, staff, alumni, board members and friends of Tulane University. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, dinner and entertainment by Big Sam’s Funky Nation and Irma Thomas, pictured above on stage. 6. La Petite Grocery owners Mia and Justin Devillier, pictured above with Marguerite and Jim Lewis, celebrated their restaurant’s 10th anniversary with a block party on March 23 in the restaurant’s classic Uptown neighborhood.
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7. More than 200 friends and family joined the Devilliers to celebrate the occasion with snacks, specialty cocktails and a performance by Linnzi Zaorski and her six-piece band, Delta Royale, shown entertaining the crowd above. 8. English Turn Golf and Country Club hosted the Cancer Crusaders seventh annual “Golf Tournament” on March 24. Thirty-six teams of golfers from all over the country attended the event, which was chaired by Kathy and Mark Mitchell, pictured above. 9. The tournament, sponsored by Mr. Mudbug Catering, First NBC and Peoples Health, raised more than $110,000 for cancer research in the Greater New Orleans Area. First place winners Kerry Ginger, Steve Purdy, Alex and Bob Carl are pictured above. 10. The Preservation Resource Center celebrated the history of shotguns and New Orleans’ jazz heritage just before the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on March 25 at 923 Tchoupitoulas St. with the 18th “Shotgun House Tour and Shotgun Soirée” with attendees that included Kristin Moore, Beau and Jessie Haynes and Sarah Martzolf, pictured above. 11. Monika Smyczek, Samantha Diamond of Culture Connect, Janie Blackmon and Anne Morse, both PRC board members, are pictured enjoying the “Shotgun Soirée” at the newly remodeled PRC headquarters in the Warehouse District. The evening included champagne and cuisine from Tartine, Back to the Garden and Poeyfarre Market. 12. Banjoist John Parker played for guests, including Don and Ann Wise, pictured above. The event also served to mark the launch of PRC’s new mobile app with Culture Connect, “Jazz Houses: Where They Lived,” presented by Dr. Jack Stewart.
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advertising section
KiDS GiFTS LEE MICHAELS Lakeside Shopping Center, 832-0000, lmfj.com 14KYG Diamond Stud Earrings, with child safety backs, $160 and 14KYG Diamond Solitaire Necklace on 15” Chain, $130
PERLIS Clothing. 6070 Magazine St., 895-8661 600 Decatur St., 523-6681 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, (985) 674-1711 8366 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, (225) 926-5909 Perlis.com
The Crawfish Polo Onesie features our classic crawfish embroidery on 100% ringspun cotton jersey with ribbed collar and cuffs with reinforced 3-button snap closure.
ADLER’S 722 Canal St., New Orleans, 523-5292, AdlersJewelry.com Stylish and comfortable, this sterling silver Children’s Friendship ID Bracelet by Links of London makes the perfect present for birthdays or special occasions . Engrave your own message on the 22-mm ID plaque and turn it into the perfect personalized present that will be cherished for years to come. Available in pink and blue.
BANBURY CROSS 100 Atherton Drive, Metairie, 837-0447 BanburyCrossOnline.com Dress little ones up in beautiful smocked dresses with ‘Jemima Puddle Duck’ accessories.
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advertising section
PALM TREE PLAYGROUND 3011 N. Interstate 10 Service Road E Metairie, 828-8164 PalmTreePlayground.com The perfect summer gift - play inside and stay cool this summer at a kids’ indoor playground specializing in play dates and birthday parties!
HARTSTRINGS KIDS APPAREL CENTER THE OUTLET COLLECTION AT RIVERWALK 500 Port of New Orleans Place, Suite 260 Hartstrings.com
This brother/sister look is the picture of perfection and includes classic styles and fabrics, including plaid, pleats and argyle finished with special embroidered details.
Feet First 4122 Magazine St., New Orleans 526 Royal St., New Orleans 200 Metairie Rd. Suite 102, Metairie 899-6800 FeetFirstStores.com Groove Apotheca products are made of “almost raw” whole botanicals and little else. Gentle and effective, moms and kids really love the Cream Crayons and aluminum-free Original Deodorant.
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performing arts By Lauren LaBorde
Performance Calendar JUNE 6-29 Say Amen A young Christian couple looks to their faith when their only child dies as a result of violence.
Anthony Bean Community Theater, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-7529, AnthonyBeanTheater.com
8 MOVE Live on Tour with Julianne and Derek Hough Of “Dancing With the Stars” fame, the dancer siblings bring their live show on tour.
Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 525-1052, SaengerNola.com 18 Tiger Tackle
Chris Champagne stars in the multimedia show about his father’s football journey from LSU to Los Angeles, where he played for the LA Rams in the 1940s. Mid-City
Theater, 3540 Toulouse St., 488-1460,
MidCityTheatre.com
19-22 Les Miserables Tulane Summer Lyric presents the hit musical based on the Victor Hugo novel Tulane Summer Lyric,
Tulane’s Dixon Hall, 865-5269,
SummerLyric.tulane.edu
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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.
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Premier
Properties ELEANOR FARNSWORTH Top Residential Producer
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5631 St. Charles Avenue.....SOLD...............$6,185,000 4717 St Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$6,000,000 3 Audubon Place .................SOLD...............$5,250,000 16 Audubon Place .............. SOLD ..............$4,500,000 521 Gov. Nicholls................SOLD...............$3,750,000 8 La Salle Place .......................UC .................$3,650,000 1800 Jefferson .................................................$2,700,000 1776 State Street ..................SOLD...............$2,300,000 3 Poydras Street #9E/F ........SOLD...............$2,300,000 906 S. New Hampshire Avenue......SOLD...............$2,199,000 2600 Gay lynn Drive ......................................$1,950,000 841 Barracks Street .............SOLD...............$1,850,000 1427 Eighth Street ..............SOLD...............$1,850,000 1518 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,750,000 1328 Felicity Street ..............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1538 Fourth Street ..............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1415 Cadiz Street ...............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1732-34 Palmer.....................SOLD...............$1,650,000 2708 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,625,000 1233 Sewcond Street...........SOLD...............$1,600,000 576 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,595,000 4613 St. Charles Avenue.....SOLD...............$1,495,000 2707 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,490,000 2507 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,490,000 6433 Paris Avenue ..........................................$1,450,000 1542 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD...............$1,450,000 5726 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,400,000 1205 Philip Street .................SOLD...............$1,399,000 4917 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,370,000 1413 Philip Street ................SOLD...............$1,370,000 447 Audubon Street ........... SOLD ..............$1,300,000 9 Blanc Place ........................SOLD...............$1,300,000 1578 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD...............$1,300,000 36 Versaillies....................................................$1,295,000 1207 State Street ..................SOLD...............$1,250,000 571 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,220,000 1539 Soniat Street ...............SOLD...............$1,220,000 6554 Oakland Drive............SOLD...............$1,200,000
441 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,199,000 4901 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,100,000 2006 Jefferson Avenue........SOLD...............$1,100,000 17 Chateau Palmer ..............SOLD...............$1,085,000 1701 Valence Street .............SOLD...............$1,075,000 1919 State Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 Exposition Blvd .........SOLD...............$1,045,000 3225 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,000,000 1844 State Street ..................SOLD.................. $995,000 1022 Webster Street ............SOLD.................. $995,000 3447 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $985,000 45 Savannah Ridge Ln ........SOLD.................. $950,000 1543 Henry Clay Avenue.......SOLD.................. $950,000 1729 Jefferson Avenue........SOLD.................. $950,000 4525 Prytania Street ............SOLD.................. $950,000 3937 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $950,000 508 Walnut Street ................SOLD.................. $950,000 2331 Chestnut Street...........SOLD.................. $949,000 1922 State Street ..................SOLD.................. $899,000 6161 Loyola Avenue............SOLD.................. $895,000 6131 Coliseum....................................................$895,000 1205 Arabella Street ............SOLD.................. $895,000 6047 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $850,000 836 State Street ....................SOLD.................. $849,000 500 Walnut Street ................SOLD.................. $825,000 5951 Tchoupitoulas.............SOLD.................. $815,000 5933 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $799,000 1443 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD.................. $789,000 405 Exposition Blvd ...........SOLD.................. $755,000 7315 Dominican Street .............................................$479,000 1513 Hesiod Street ..............SOLD.................. $459,000 233 Broadway...............................UC......................... $420,000 248 Cherokee #16 ..................UC..................... $185,000 7337 W. Roadway Street ......3 Slips.................. $100,000 6257 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge ................$2,750,000 71607 Riverside Dr., Covington...................$1,350,000
Belle Alliance Plantation.............$3,785,000 838 Lowerline ...............................$2,470,000 11 Arbor Circle...............................$1,395,000 10 Swan .......................SOLD.... ... $1,300,000 1440 Camp St................................ $1,245,000 22 Farnham.....................................$1,245,000 500 Audubon .............SOLD.... ...... $998,000 704 Webster.......................................$995,000 5232 Chestnut ...........SOLD.... ...... $920,000 1566 Calhoun .............SOLD.... ...... $875,000 5111 Pitt .......................SOLD.... .......$749,000 1240 Eighth .................SOLD.... ...... $725,000 208 English Turn .............................. $699,000 328 Julia.......................SOLD.... ...... $595,000 6313 Laurel .................SOLD.... ...... $568,000 6308 Camp .................SOLD.... ...... $549,000 6219 Magazine St......SOLD.... ...... $530,000 3801 St. Charles.......... .SOLD...............$499,000 924 Bellecastle ..... .....SOLD.......... . $485,000 234 Audubon St .........SOLD.... ...... $479,000 8233 Freret St ............SOLD.... ...... $445,000 700 S. Peters ...............SOLD.... ...... $428,000 6061 Tchoupitoulas.........................$419,000 6300 Colbert St ..........SOLD.... .......$419,000 4 Stilt .............................SOLD.... .......$415,000 4440 Bienville .............SOLD.... ...... $399,000 915 Cadiz .....................SOLD.... ...... $396,000 4930 S. Johnson........SOLD............$385,000 4329 Cohn St.............(COM)............$365,000 1418 N. Villere....................................$255,000 721 E.Jefferson Park .......................$215,000 Lots at Arbors Estates ...............from $95,000
saintcharlesavenue.com | 71
new orleans nostalgia
By Seale Paterson
Travel Without Leaving Home International pavilions at the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair By its very name, the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair indicated that the world would be represented. Numerous foreign countries promoted themselves to fairgoers through exhibits and activities featuring traditional arts, artifacts and crafting techniques as well as vivid imagery (through both photographs and film) of their countries. Japan was the first foreign country to commit to the fair, in January 1983. The entrance to the 20,000-square-foot pavilion featured a mural, carp streamers and mechanical musical dolls. There were Japanese gardens,
72 | St. Charles Avenue June 2014
computer technology demonstrations, a traditional fireworks display and many artisans and performers demonstrating traditional craft and arts, such as Ikebana (flower arranging), folk songs, festival dances and Kabuki theater. The China Pavilion was the largest international pavilion, and included a journey through ancient China and a traditional garden complete with a pagoda, red lanterns and a carp pond. Displays of Chinese culture and commerce complemented live demonstrations of artisans displaying papermaking, silk birdmaking and chop carving.
The Caribbean Pavilion housed three countries: Honduras, Belize and the Dominican Republic. It was full of artifacts and art, an exhibit on coastal marine life and showcased a 77-year-old woodcraftsman fashioning a dugout canoe from mahogany. Their tropical rum and beer bar and daily live music made them a regular stop for fair attendees. The Korea Pavilion presented Korea’s past, present and future. A replica of a 16th-century turtle ship and a reconstruction of a 1,500-year-old Shilla Dynasty
watercourse led to a display of computer technology, followed by a promotional feature on the upcoming 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. The international exhibits proved to be very popular with fairgoers, with the Korean folk dancers, the Canadian IMAX movie River Journey and the Japanese and Vatican Pavilions receiving the highest praise. n
Note: This is Part 4 of a yearlong focus on the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair.
Participating nations of the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair: Australia, Belgium, Belize, Canada, China, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Liberia, Luxembourg, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, the Netherlands, the UK, the US and the Vatican. The 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair approached its international exhibitors differently than previous world’s fairs. Instead of independent structures for each country, many (but not all) of them would have exhibition space inside the newly constructed 380,000-square-foot International Pavilion. After the fair closed, the International Pavilion was developed as planned into the Riverwalk shopping complex and a cruise ship terminal. Riverwalk opened on August 28, 1986. Image provided courtesy of the New Orleans Public Library