MEET OUR SALES TE AM
Lisa Picone Love Sales Manager 830-7248, Lisa@myneworleans.com
Samantha Shiff Senior Account Executive 830-7226, Samantha@myneworleanscom
Colleen Monaghan Vice President of Sales 830-7215, Colleen@myneworleans.com
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 1
CO N T E N T S
Features
On the Cover
This year, Valentine’s Day falls within New Orleans’ Carnvial weekends and restaurants across the city are gearing up to celebrate the two holidays at once with new dishes, prix fixe menus, special events and more. Learn more, starting on pg. 40.
40 Doubling Down on Decadence Mardi Gras & Valentine’s Day restaurant specials BY KELCY WILBURN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MIKE LIRETTE
46 St. Charles Avenue’s Couture Wedding Guide BY SUE STRACHAN
Photographed by Jeffery Johnston Special thanks to Suzanne Alford for her invaluable assistance. Co-Founders Steve Gleason and Michel Varisco Gleason with Hyatt Regency General Manager Michael Smith and Host Committee Co-Chair and Honoree Gayle Benson for the “Game Changer Gala,” benefiting Team Gleason & Answer ALS The nonprofits founded by Former Saints player Steve Gleason and his wife Michel Varisco Gleason, Team Gleason and Answer ALS, will celebrate their efforts and pay tribute to those who have been and continue to be game changers in the fight to live with and end ALS at the “Game Changer Gala.” On March 20, there will be a VIP and Sponsor Reception, with the main event following on March 21 at the Hyatt Regency. That black-tie optional night will begin with a cocktail reception at 6, with dinner, an auction and a concert by Leon Bridges and St. Paul & The Broken Bones – with more to be announced! A special part of the gala will be the celebration of its four Game Changer Honorees – JP Morgan Chase and Lois Backon; the Chan Zuckerbeg Initiative; Pete Frates, posthumously; Dr. Jeffrey Rothstein; and Gayle Benson – as well as the acknowledgement of Steve Gleason’s Congressional Gold Medal. For more information, to become a sponsor or to purchase a table, visit GameChangerGala.com or call 934-1037.
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 3
CO N T E N T S
In Every Issue
18
6&8
36
PHILANTHROPIC FUN
EDITORS’ NOTES
ArcGNO Mardi Gras Recycle Center: Turning beads into jobs
12 KIDS PLAY
Mary Queen of Vietnam Tet Celebration: Remembering family while learning about other traditions
14 WHAT’S HOT: Mardi Gras
16 ON THE MENU
Breakfast Opulence: Executive Chef Virgile Brandel shares Café Normandie’s Stuffed Crawfish Bisque Buckwheat Crepe
18 THE DISH
Out to Lunch: The best lunch specials + two Happy Hours
54 VINTAGE WEDDING
Susan Louise Read Weds Edward Douglas Johnson Jr.: January 20, 1968
4 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
56 WITH THIS RING
Bailey – Meachum
10 MAKING A DIFFERENCE
63
Garden Goodness For the first time ever, “Magic in the Moonlight” took place at The Pavilion of the Two Sisters. 20
A Celebratory Citizen United Way of Southeast Louisiana presented Roger H. Ogden with the 2019 Alexis de Tocqueville Award. 30
Southern Hospitality The Ogden Museum of Southern Art honored Louisiana art, music and food at its annual elegant gala. 22
A Legal Legend NCJW presented Madeleine M. Landrieu, Dean of Loyola University College of Law, with the Hannah G. Solomon Award. 32
Shining Supporters Seven individuals received honorable recognition at Junior Achievement’s “City Stars Soirée.”. 24
A Cause To Shop More than 600 guests flocked Canal Place to champion cancer research. 34
Learning through Art KID smART centers the arts in New Orleans public school classrooms. 26
Sips and Spirits The VCC preserves and protects the invaluable historic architectural heritage of New Orleans’ French Quarter. 36
Illuminating Hope A successful “Light Up the Night” benefited persons with disabilities. 28
A Toast to Home Cancer The Lambeth House gala benefited better living for its residents and for seniors. 38
58 ONSTAGE CALENDAR
60 YOUNG BLOODS
Todd Wackerman: Founder, STEM Library Lab
61 STUDENT ACTIVIST
Gabriel Joseph Wright: Archbishop Rummel High School
62 SHOP TALK
Ellen Balkin: Director of Education, Ogden Museum of Southern Art
63 SHOP TALK
Robert Lyall: General & Artistic Director, New Orleans Opera Association
64 SNAPSHOTS
72 NOSTALGIA The Doubloon Debut: The beginnings of a valued and valuable collection
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 5
B E V ' S N OT E
We are beyond excited to present the “Game Changer Gala” for our February cover! Thanks so much to Co-Founders Steve Gleason and Michel Varisco Gleason with Host Committee Co-Chair Gayle Benson and Hyatt Regency General Manager Michael Smith for gracing our cover this month! They and many other famous faces – locally and nationally – who are Co-Charing and on the committees for this gala promise an exciting event for 800 people with a live auction and a unique menu by the Link Restaurant Group in partnership with the Hyatt Hotel on March 21 and a concert by Leon Bridges and St. Paul & The Broken Bones – more to be announced! Honorees are: JP Morgan Chase and Lois Backon; the Chan Zuckerbeg Initiative; Pete Frates, posthumously; Dr. Jeffrey Rothstein; and Gayle Benson. As you all know by now, Steve Gleason was the first NFL player to receive the Congressional Gold Medal! He received this highest honor for his tireless work as an advocate for ALS. We are all so proud of Steve and Michel Gleason bringing awareness and hope for those with ALS. He has the most positive outlook of anyone I know, except maybe his wife Michel! As a counter-culture athlete who spent his off-season adventuring in third world countries with his wife, he’ll always be remembered for his blocked punt on the night that the Louisiana Superdome opened for the first time after Katrina. In January 2011, Steve was diagnosed with ALS, considered to be a terminal neuromuscular disease. It is his mission to show that patients can thrive after this diagnosis! Team Gleason is an organization driven to generate public awareness for ALS and is dedicated to raising funds to find a cure, and to empower those with ALS to be the best they can be after their diagnosis. Steve Gleason is certainly doing just that – thriving along with the help of his wife Michel and his whole family, including all of us in New Orleans and beyond! For more information, to become a sponsor or to purchase a table, visit GameChangerGala.com or call 934-1037. Let us make this a disease of the past! With Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras upon us, we have restaurant specials that will delight even the pickiest of eaters! Check out our feature and feast on your favorite New Orleans cuisine and new finds! Our annual Couture Wedding Guide, written by our dear Sue Strachan, will give you ideas for every occasion from debutantes, to weddings and for Mardi Gras balls. We have amazing designers right here in town who are perfection! Definitely look to our What’s Hot for Mardi Gras for the perfect accessory for you, your loved ones and your home to take your celebrations over the top! The Thrift Stores run Bridge House / Grace House are part of their philosophy of rebirth. Their 11th annual “Recycled Fashion Show,” February 9 at Rock ’n’ Bowl, recruits local designers who showcase the possibilities of re-use. Each designer will put together two runway designs, highlighting what their thrift stores have to offer. “Recycled Fashion Show” attendees aren’t only treated to a fashion show with more than 30 local designers, but they’ll also have a chance to bid on the outfits in the show. The event also features complimentary food from local restaurants, a silent auction (with additional items other than the outfits modeled on the runway), a cash bar and a raffle. Tickets are $50 for VIP, $25 in advance and $40 day of. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 821-7134, or visit BridgeHouse.org/events/recycled-fashion-show. Have a happy and safe Mardi Gras and have fun!
Beverly Reese Church
6 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
Cheryl Gerber captures the vibrancy and diversity of New Orleans women who have made their mark on the city in their own unique ways. Her photography is exquisite, and is highlighted by essays about the accomplishments of women such as Leah Chase, Irma Thomas, Mignon Faget and Trixie Minx. Also featured are prominent women’s groups like Mardi Gras Indians and the Krewe of Muses. The book is divided into 12 chapters, each celebrating women who are entertainers, socialites, activists, musicians, chefs, entrepreneurs, spiritual leaders and burlesque artists! Her book is available at Garden District Bookshop and other retailers, and on Amazon. Check for book signings!
Ogham is a story of hidden relics. It spans over 2,000 years and touches on The Bible, young Jesus, the missing years of his life after age 12 and relics. This is a fascinating story about the years between then and now that moves from Judea to ancient and medieval England in the Reformation, involves British and Spanish kings, early North America and Nova Scotia and finally Acadia, Louisiana, then and modern day. The book involves the mystery associated with The Money Pit of Nova Scotia and religious relics from the early years of Jesus’ life ultimately found in south Louisiana on Oak Island and much more. Ogham is available online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Check for book signings! Congratulations to Chip Saunders!
FEBRUARY 2020 VOL. 24 ISSUE 9 Editorial
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Bev Church EDITOR Morgan Packard Griffith ART DIRECTOR Ali Sullivan FOOD & DINING COLUMNIST Jyl Benson WEB EDITOR Kelly Massicot EVENT PHOTO COORDINATOR Jeff Strout
Advertising
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Colleen Monaghan (504) 830-7241, Colleen@MyNewOrleans.com SALES MANAGER Lisa Picone Love
(504) 830-7248, Lisa@MyNewOrleans.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Samantha Shiff (504) 830-7226, Samantha@MyNewOrleans.com
Marketing DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & EVENTS
Jeanel Farrell Luquette EVENT COORDINATOR Abbie Dugruise
Digital
DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER Sarah Duckert
Production
PRODUCTION MANAGER Emily Andras PRODUCTION DESIGNERS
Rosa Balaguer, Meghan Rooney TRAFFIC COORDINATOR Lane Brocato
Administration
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Todd Matherne PRESIDENT Alan Campell EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Errol Laborde VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Colleen Monaghan OFFICE MANAGER Mallary Matherne DISTRIBUTION MANAGER John Holzer AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Claire Sargent
For subscriptions call (504) 830-7231
A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Ste. 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, © 2020 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. Subscription rate: one year $17.95, two year $31, three year $43 — foreign rates vary call for pricing. 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.
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 7
M O R G A N ' S N OT E
My son is in Christmas withdrawal. As we packed up the Christmas tree, he lovingly rang the bell in his favorite ornament, and then, when the box had been closed, patted it and said, “bye-bye, ho, ho, ho.” I know that he isn’t alone in this. At school this very morning I heard another mother say to her toddler that it’s OK that the Christmas trees are gone, because Carnival is here! And she’s right. By the time you’ll read this, we’ll be hip-deep in parades, balls, parties and King Cake. In fact, we’ve already started. My son had a blast at Joan of Arc – as did his parents
– and we’re almost through our first two King Cakes. My longtime favorite is Gambino’s Cream Cheese, which is problematic given that I can get them less than a block from my house! This year, though, I’ve decided to branch out. The day after 12th Night, Mathis and I went to the King Cake Hub. Located in the circular drive at the Mystère Mansion (4800 Canal St.), they offer more than 50 King Cakes from bakeries around New Orleans and Southeast Louisiana. We decided on Hi Do’s cream cheese and Bywater Bakery’s Carnival. Both are delicious and are encouraging me to keep trying more, which is great for my taste buds but bad for my waistline. Though I’ve told myself the adage that Carnival is a marathon, not a sprint, many times, I’m hoping this year it’ll stick. It feels like we haven’t had any time to recover from Christmas,
let alone New Year’s, and we’re already pulling out our purple, green and gold. If you’re looking for a little something special to add to your Mardi Gras, look to our What’s Hot. Valentine’s Day is right in the middle of our Carnival celebrations, so read our feature on restaurant specials and make your reservation now. This issue also has our annual “Couture Wedding Guide.” So whether you’re planning your wedding, helping someone plan theirs or looking to plan a decadent party, read on for some tips, treats and tastes. Enjoy Carnival – however you spend it – and take care of yourself and those around you!
FEBRUARY
14 “Legacy Gala: ‘Seas The Night,’” benefiting St. Mary’s Dominican High School, 865-9401, StMarysDominican.org/event/dominican-gala-2/
21 Ninth annual “Soraparu Soiree,” benefiting Raphael Village, 524-5955
1 “Jewish Roots of Rhythm & Blues,” benefiting Jewish Children’s Regional Service, 828-6334 9 11th annual “Recycled Fashion Show,” benefiting House / Grace House, 821-7134 12-13 “Taste America,” benefiting James Beard Foundation, 583-5550
14 “UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball 2020,” 581-3794, UNCF.org/nolamaskedball 14 “Opus Ball,” benefiting Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, 523-6530 14 “Night Under the Stars Soirée,” benefiting Cabrini High School, 482-1193
MARCH 4 “Student of the Year Kick-Off,” benefiting Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 758-3213 6 “Red Tie Affair,” benefiting Ochsner Clinic Foundation, 842-7125 6 “French Quarter Fest Gala Fundraiser,” benefiting French Quarter Festivals, Inc., 522-5730, FQFI.org 7 “Temple Sinai 150th Celebration,” 861-3693 7 39th annual “Sugarplum Ball,” benefiting Children’s Hospital New Orleans, 896-9375 7 “Blue Goose Jambalya Cook-off,” benefiting Louisiana Pond Honorable Blue Goose, (225) 400-2557 7 “Ahava Festival,” AhavaFest.com 13 “Lark in the Park,” benefiting Friends of City Park, 483-9376 13 “New Orleans Go Red for Women Luncheon,” benefiting American Heart Association, 615-9888, NewOrleansGoRed.heart.org 13 35th annual “Crimestoppers GNO Awards Luncheon,” 837-8477 14 “Tails But No Black Tie,” benefiting Farm in New Orleans City Park, 483-9398, TailsButNoBlackTie.org
14 “Soul Revival,” benefiting Legacy Donor Foundation, 558-8900 16 “Next Generation Golf Tournament,” benefiting Next Generation Ministries, 885-0980 16 & 18 “YEP Fest presented by IBERIABANK,” benefiting Youth Empowerment Project, 522-1316, extension 248; YouthEmpowermentProject.org
Morgan Packard Griffith
21 “ART&SOUL,” benefiting The NOCCA Institute, 940-2851, ArtAndSoulNOCCA.com 21-22 “Shotgun House Tour,” benefiting Preservation Resource Center, 581-7032, PRCNO.org 25-29 34th annual “The Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival,” 581-1144, TennesseeWilliams.net 26-29 “Art in Bloom 2020 | Beauty, Ingenuity, and Tradition presented by IBERIABANK,” benefiting New Orleans Museum of Art, 658-412, NOMA.org 26 Eighth annual “Jazzin’ on Jackson,” benefiting Mercy Endeavors, 568-0607 26 “Celebration for Children’s Rights,” benefiting Louisiana Center for Children’s Rights, 658-6862
17 “MCC Excellence in Law Enforcement Awards Luncheon,” benefiting Metropolitan Crime Commission, 524-3148
27-29 17th annual “The Saints + Sinners LGBTQ Literary Festival,” 581-1144
18-22 “New Orleans Wine & Food Experience,” 655-5158
27-28 “Hogs for the Cause,” HogsForTheCause.org
20 “2020 Drafts for Crafts supported by IBERIABANK,” benefiting National WWII Museum, 528-1944, extension 334, DraftsForCrafts.org
28 Ninth annual “Keeping Our Promises Gala Presented by Louisiana Healthcare Connections,” benefiting Ascension DePaul Foundation of New Orleans (formerly Daughters of Charity Foundation), 212-9544
19 Sixth annual “There’s No Place Like Home,” benefiting New Orleans Women & Children’s Shelter, NOWCS.org/support/tnplh 20 “Wine Fete,” benefiting Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses, 274-0744
28 “NCJW Diva Dinner Gala,” benefiting National Council of Jewish Women, Greater New Orleans, 861-7788 28 “Notre Dame Seminary Gala,” 866-7426, NDS.edu
20 11th annual “Paint the Town Green Gala,” benefiting Raintree Children and Family Services, 899-9045, extension 235
29 “Parkway Promenade XXIX – An Evening at the Moulin Rouge,” benefiting Jefferson Beautification, Inc., 466-6063
21 “Greenway Fest,” benefiting Friends of Lafitte Greenway, 702-6776
31 48th annual “Prix d’Elegance Luncheon and Fashion Show,” benefiting Men and Women of Fashion, 522-0996, extension 208
21 “Game Changer Gala,” benefiting Gleason & Answer ALS, GameChangerGala.com
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 9
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
ArcGNO Mardi Gras Recycle Center Turning beads into jobs By Catherine Freeman
It is possible Carnival is the only time of year “Who Dat” chants are drowned out by another equally passionate exclamation. In the coming weeks “Throw me something mister!” will reign supreme as young and old alike jockey to receive the coveted throws from float riders in parades filling New Orleans’ streets. Many may trek home with bags of their bounty, but more often than not a majority of the throws become trash, clogging drains that aggravate street flooding. According to a 2018 article in The TimesPicayune, Carnival produces a whopping average of 900 tons of waste each year from beads and throws. Fortunately, there’s an alternative to leaving your beads on the street or cluttering your attic – one that benefits our community and the environment. For over 30 years, ArcGNO has created wage-earning jobs for individuals with intellectual disabilities by collecting, sorting and repackaging Mardi Gras beads and throws. I jumped on the opportunity to visit the Mardi Gras Recycle Center and was blown away by the Metairie facility. With permanent recycling centers and drop off bins placed throughout the community year round, you can imagine the volume of more than 173 tons of beads and throws collected in 2019 could be an overwhelming undertaking. But over the years, the ArcGNO Mardi Gras Recycle Center has honed its operations into “a major business opportunity for social
10 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JANUARY 2020
enterprise and our employees” notes Toni Wright, manager of the center. I first entered the warehouse where mammoth boxes, each hold more than 1,000 pounds of beads are stored. These boxes are then moved to a meticulously organized processing room where the 40 Arc team members, full- and part-time, plus thousands of volunteers put in full days sorting, banding and packaging beads in crawfish sacks. “It isn’t simply a process of grabbing beads and putting them in a bag, there’s a detailed method,” Wright explains. The processing room, lined with hooks and bins for organizing every color and type of bead or throw imaginable, was swimming with contagious happy energy as I observed a group of intellectually disabled adults sorting diligently. Once packaged, the beads and throws are sold in the center’s retail store (open weekdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. year round and Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through Carnival season) or to one of the Carnival organizations partnering with ArcGNO that offer recycled bead packages, encouraging a “greener” Carnival. “Pairing with ArcGNO, which has performed valuable work recycling beads in New Orleans for many years, makes perfect sense as part of the Rex Recycles effort,” says Rex official Jim Rapier. The retail store is a hidden gem, so tell all your parade riding friends the multiple benefits of purchasing beads from
ArcGNO. The more recycled throws sold, the more jobs are created for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities – ArcGNO’s true goal. The success of the Mardi Gras Recycle Center is essential to funding the mission and work of ArcGNO, which, since 1953, has been empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities so they can live fuller and more autonomous lives. Serving more than 600 individuals and families in Orleans and surrounding parishes, they also provide job coaching and placement for those seeking employment, day activities enabling individuals to be active and integrated into the community, and personal care attendants assisting with a variety of tasks in the home and around the community. Thank you to ArcGNO’s Mardi Gras Recycle Center for making Carnival season benefit our city and individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families all year long. n
A little more... To make a donation, volunteer or learn about ArcGNO visit ArcGNO.org. To purchase beads online, visit ArcGNOBeads. org. Their retail store is located at 925 Labarre Road, Metairie, 324-1919
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K I DS P L AY
Mary Queen of Vietnam Tet Celebration Remembering family while learning about other traditions By Brittany Kennedy
During February and March, it seems as if the only event that we can focus on is Carnival – even if you’re not a fan of the purple, green and gold. As King Cakes fill up offices and classrooms, and we all struggle (and fail miserably) at keeping glitter at bay, the all-consuming nature of our own city’s celebration causes us to forget another, also unique familyfriendly event that’s just a part of the city’s history and cultural fabric as Mardi Gras: Vietnamese New Year, or Tet. Even during Carnival season, most people remember the city’s Vietnamese heritage. Both Dong Phuong bakery in New Orleans East and Hi-Do bakery on the West Bank are famous for their King Cakes. The history of the Vietnamese community in New Orleans begins with the end of the Vietnam War when Catholic Charities in New Orleans brought families here, settling them in housing in the Versailles area of New Orleans East and the town of Marrero on the West Bank. New Orleans’ similar climate as well as our shrimp industry allowed these families to adapt quickly. Almost two generations later, these communities are a major cultural influence in the New Orleans community as we all enjoy their po’boy bread, King Cakes and tasty pho.
12 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
The Tet celebration at Mary Queen of Vietnam Church in New Orleans East gives us another chance to enjoy a different facet of Vietnamese culture. The Lunar New Year is in fact one of the most important days of Vietnamese culture and changes based on the Lunar calendar, usually falling in January or February. Also seen as the first day of spring, it’s the day when families remember their ancestors and hope for a better, more prosperous New Year. The family-friendly event at Mary Queen of Vietnam will kick off February 7 at 6 p.m., and involves a wide array of games and activities. In particular, a firework display and dragon dance will begin at 6:30 p.m. On February 8, beginning at 10 a.m., visitors are welcome to browse various food and vendor booths as well as more games and performances throughout the afternoon. The celebration will close out Saturday with more traditional dances and performances. Not only do these performances allow kids to get a glimpse of another cultural tradition, the food offerings give them an insight to an important role that the Vietnamese community has played in our city’s culinary history. While including last year’s well-deserved praised and popular Dong Phuong’s King Cake, the
Tet celebration also features Vietnameseinspired chargrilled oysters and the always-tasty bahn mi (small buns filled with spiced meats and vegetables that many locals refer to as “Vietnamese po’boys”). Meanwhile, there are also several special dishes that accompany Tet, in particular the small “Lunar Cakes,” or bahn-tet, made of jellied rice, rolled and then sliced into small cakes. The cake can be savory or sweet, and families often prepared the labor-intensive dish together as a way to remember their ancestors. While our own Carnival season is also known as a time for family and friends to get together on the parade route, the Mary Queen of Vietnam’s Tet celebration offers us another chance to remember not only family that are no longer with us, but is also an important cultural influence in our city’s history whose impacts are various and diverse. n
Just the Facts... Mary Queen of Vietnam Tet Celebration 14001 Dwyer Blvd. February 7: 6 p.m.-11 p.m. February 8: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. February 9: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. For more information, visit their Facebook page: Facebook.com/MaryQueenofVietnamChurch
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W H AT ' S H OT
Mardi Gras By Amy Gabriel It is that magical time of year again, when the streets are a dizzying flurry of parades, the trees are dripping with colorful beads and a sensible breakfast starts with a slice of King Cake. Count on our Mardi Gras essentials to keep you in full swing this Carnival season.
[1] [3]
[4] [2]
14 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
2. Decorate well and do good with a silky bead pillow from The MyNew Orleans Photo Project presented by the nonprofit ReFOCUS. A portion of the proceeds are shared with the photographers. Home Malone,
629 N. Carrollton Ave., 324-8352; 4610 Magazine St., 766-6148; HomeMaloneNola.com 3. Your geaux cup game will be on point with a “Pour Me Something Mister� 12 ounce stemless plastic
wine cup. Party Cup Express, PartyCupExpress.com 4. A trendy gold tassel clutch from Gigi is a Lundi Gras brunch must. FeBe, 474 Metairie Road, 835-5250
SE LEC T PHOTOS BY CHERYL G ERBER
1. Even your parade eyewear will have pizazz with a pair of Francis Klein frames, handmade in Paris and embellished with petite crystals. Art & Eyes, 3708 Magazine St., 891-4494, ArtAndEyesNewOrleansLA.com
W H AT ' S H OT
[5] [7]
[8] [6]
[9]
5. For a hostess gift with a certain je ne sais quoi, gift a “c’est bon d’être reine” tea towel. Judy at the Rink, 2727 Prytania St., 891-7018 6. He will collect beads and compliments in a Crawfish Mardi
Gras check sport button-down shirt. Perlis, 6060 Magazine St., 895-8661; 600 Decatur St., 523-6681; Perlis.com 7. Liven up your lobes with beaded fringe Evil Eye earrings. Relish, 600 Metairie Road, 3093336, RelishNewOrleans.com
8. Your little lovely will be parade route ready in a precious ruffle knit cotton romper with screen-printed green pearl and gold glitter bead accents. Bon Temps Boutique, 603 1/2 Metairie Road, 571-5259, BonTempsBoutique.com
9. Outfit your wrist with a Carnival mask sterling silver couture charm. Bracelet sold separately. Cristy Cali, 3110 Magazine St., 7228758, CristyCali.com
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 15
ON THE MENU
Breakfast Opulence Executive Chef Virgile Brandel shares Café Normandie’s Stuffed Crawfish Bisque Buckwheat Crepe CAFÉ NORMANDIE’S STUFFED CRAWFISH BISQUE BUCKWHEAT CREPE 12 Buckwheat Crepes (*recipe below) 2 pounds Crawfish Bisque (*recipe below) 2 pounds bechamel (*recipe below) ½ pound fresh Morel mushrooms Olive oil 3 Shallots, chopped 1 pound Louisiana crawfish tails 12 large eggs Chives 4 cups Gruyere, shredded
MIX bechamel and crawfish bisque. In a hot sauté pan, ADD olive oil, chopped shallots, crawfish tails and Morels (keep a few Morels for garnish). Cook a few minutes. Set aside. PLACE crepes on a flat surface. In the middle add 2-3 spoons of bisque and bechamel mix. Top with Gruyere. With spatula LIFT edges of the crepe to form a square. Place on a plate when hot. COOK 1 egg over easy. Place on top of each crepe. PLACE sautéed Morels and crawfish tails on the top of crepes. Add chopped chives to garnish.
CRAWFISH BISQUE
16 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
In a large heavy pot or cast-iron Dutch oven, HEAT oil over medium-high heat. Whisk in flour, stirring constantly until dark brown roux is achieved. Add onion, bell pepper, celery and garlic. Sauté vegetables until soft and translucent, 5-7 minutes. Add tomato sauce and
BUCKWHEAT CREPES 1 cup buckwheat flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 2 large eggs 1 cup whole milk 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter, melted 1/4-1/2 cup water
COMBINE all ingredients (except water) in a blender, and blend until smooth. COVER batter and let rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight. THIN batter with water, using less water for thicker crêpes and more water for thinner ones. PREHEAT a crêpe pan or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with butter, oil or pan spray. Pour enough batter to thinly coat the bottom of the pan; swirling the pan as you pour to ensure an even coating. COOK for 1 to 2 minutes on the first side, until it’s golden and lifts from the pan easily. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes on other side. TRANSFER cooked crêpes to a plate, stacking them on top of one another, keeping a towel over them.
BECHAMEL 2 cups milk 1 Tablespoons butter 2 Tablespoons flour Pinch nutmeg ½ cup Parmesan
HEAT milk in a heavy saucepan. Keep aside. In a separate saucepan MELT butter. Add flour and stir until golden. Whisking constantly, ADD hot milk. Bring milk to simmer for a few minutes. CONTINUE to whisk for 10 minutes, until flour is cooked. WHISK in the nutmeg and cheese.
PHOTOS BY JEF FERY JOHN STON
CAFÉ NORMANDIE The Higgins Hotel, 1000 Magazine St., 528-1941, HigginsHotelNola.com
1 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 cups onions, diced 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced 1 cup celery, diced 2 Tablespoons garlic, minced 1 cup flour 1/4 cup tomato sauce 1/2 teaspoon paprika 3 quarts crawfish stock (vegetable stock can be substituted) 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 pound Louisiana crawfish tails Salt and black pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne Tabasco
stir. Add stock gradually, stirring well to incorporate. Add salt, black pepper, paprika and cayenne, and stir. COVER, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. ADD crawfish tails and reduce a few minutes more. Adjust salt, black pepper and hot sauce to taste.
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 17
THE DISH
Out to Lunch The best lunch specials + two Happy Hours
Marjie’s Grill meat-and-three honey-butter yard bird with cucumber and melon Som Tam salad
By Jyl Benson
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PHOTO BY MIKE LIRETTE
“Lunch like a queen, dine like a pauper”: that’s my motto. I relish meeting friends for a meal in the middle of the day to try new dishes and check out new places, because come evening I want to be home with my dogs and dinner is usually either leftovers from lunch or a hastily concocted salad. Hence, it’s with pleasure that I’ve recently observed that a slew of local restaurants have upped the lunch game allowing for exciting, diverse dining options, often at value-driven prices. The menu at Marjie’s Grill, a casual spot that packs serious culinary power, is loaded with plenty of fresh, uncommon flavors and lunch is the perfect time for a visit for a unique take on the meat-andthree. The cost of your lunch is based on the number of sides you select: one for $13, two for $16, three for $19. First, select a protein, such as honey-butter yard bird rubbed with chili and garlic, slow-roasted over hardwood coals and glazed with Louisiana honey; peel-andeat jumbo Gulf shrimp marinated with garlic and chili, and served with lime and herbs; or buttermilk-fried wild Des Allemandes catfish crusted with heirloom corn flour and served with a zippy buttermilk dipping sauce. Then select one, two or three sides, which include coal-roasted sweet potatoes; cucumber and melon Som Tam salad with chili vinaigrette; grilled Alabama sweet corn slathered with lemongrass sambal butter; Louisiana field greens with olive oil and satsuma; grilled shishito peppers; and grilled okra. Compere Lapin offers a $30 two-course prix-fixe lunch on weekdays. Choose
from one first course lunch offering and one specialty second course item. First course offerings include beet & carrot salad with pecans; cold smoked tuna tartare with avocado and crispy bananas; whipped ricotta with roasted apples, truffle honey and pine nuts; and marinated shrimp with roasted jalapeno jus. Second course items include agnolotti with curry granola; snapper with roasted squash and Brussels sprouts; and hot fire chicken sandwich with pickles. A major bargain, the beautiful Copper Vine also offers lunch on weekdays. The scrumptious lunch menu has a “pick two” option for the unbeatable price of $13. Guests may combine two of the following lunch items: Baby Herbs Salad with seasonal fruit, candied pecans, house cheese and citrus vinaigrette; Chicken and Boudin Gumbo; Tomato Basil Soup with egg, Serrano ham and micro basil; half of a Smoked Chicken Salad Club Sandwich with Chisesi ham, bacon provolone, butter lettuce and heirloom tomato; half of a Copper Vine Cuban with Chisesi ham, house smoked pork loin, pickled peppers, provolone and yellow mustard; or half a Fried Shrimp Poor Boy with white Gulf shrimp, pepper jelly, tasso ham and pickled okra. With offers this exciting, there’s no excuse for enduring a boring mid-day salad or a hohum sandwich at your desk. Get out and enjoy the cool weather. It won’t last forever. n
Try This: Happy Hour is offered every day at Superior Seafood, 4-6:30 p.m., when frozen cocktails – including the addictive frozen French 75 (gin, Champagne and fresh lemon juice) – are two-for-one and cold, salty oysters are $.50 apiece. Sit outside if the weather is fine, but know that the unadulterated views of a beautiful stretch of St. Charles Avenue are visible through the large picture windows while still enjoying the comfort of air conditioning or a heater on the given day. The restaurant’s festive bistro environment is established largely by the spectacular 32-foot zinc bar, which was crafted in Petoux, France, salvaged from Paris and shipped to New Orleans with great fanfare. Across town and also rocking a vaguely Parisian vibe, The Franklin shines with a daily happy hour 5-7 p.m. every day except Tuesday, when it’s closed. Six dollar cocktails include including house martinis, daiquiris and margaritas, lemon drops and old-fashioneds, as well as snacks like oysters with mignonette, fries with garlic aioli, duck liver mousse with mostarda and house made pickles, cheese plates, redfish rillettes and warm spiced olives.
COMPERE LAPIN, 535 Tchoupitoulas St., 599-2119, CompereLapin.com COPPER VINE, 1001 Poydras St., 208-9535, CopperVineWine.com THE FRANKLIN, 2600 Dauphine St., 267-0640, TheFranklinNola.com MARJIE’S GRILL, 320 S. Broad Ave., 603-2234, MarjiesGrill.com SUPERIOR SEAFOOD, 4338 St. Charles Ave., 293-3474, SuperiorSeafoodNola.com
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Garden Goodness
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For the first time ever, “Magic in the Moonlight” took place at The Pavilion of the Two Sisters. By Shelby Simon
Lush garden-inspired tablescapes and votive lanterns flickered around The Pavilion of the Two Sisters for “Magic in the Moonlight,” the first event held in this new venue. Proceeds from the Botanical Garden Foundation benefit will be used to restore the WPA-era brickwork in the Parterre Rose Garden and support programming in the Botanical Garden’s recently opened Kitchen in the Garden. A three-course menu was prepared by James Beard Award Winning Chefs John Currence and Vishwesh Bhatt of City Grocery Restaurant Group in Oxford, Mississippi, in partnership with Joel’s Catering. Wines and spirits were generously donated by Fred Holley and Bill Goldring of the Sazerac Company. The music during dinner was provided by strolling musicians. After dinner, DJ Heat Wave spun tunes for dancing. Two lucky live auction winners bid on a lot to Chef John Currence's Oxford Bourbon Festival and a Cal-A-Vie La Petite Spa package. Over 325 guests attended the popular event, chaired by past Chairs from the previous nine years, including: Carla Adams, Dana Hansel, Muffin Balart, Juli Miller Hart, Caitlin Brewster, Jessie Haynes, Ashley Bright, Tina Kern, Joey Brown, Rebecca Schultz Lester, Liz Brown, Shawn O’Brien, Marla Donovan, Sandra Pulitzer, Margo DuBos, Edmund Redd, Sybil Favrot, Liz Sloss, Natalie Finnegan, Leigh Thorpe, René Fransen, David Waller, Dessa Giffin and Sarah Young. Honorary Co-Chairs were Natalie Finnegan, Kelly Cusimano, Vincent Giardina and Lisa Romano from the Oscar J. Tolmas Foundation and Genevieve Trimble. n
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Event at a Glance WHAT: “Magic in the Moonlight,” benefiting Botanical Garden Foundation WHEN: Friday, October 11 WHERE: Pavilion of the Two Sisters
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT
1. Honorary Co-Chair Natalie Finnegan, Stephen Sonnier, Co-Chair Muffin Balart and Roy Dunn 2. Chef Vishwesh Bhatt, Dr. Dan Lester and Co-Chair Rebecca Schultz Lester and Chef John Currence 3. Honorary Co-Chairs Vincent Giardina and Lisa Romano, Co-Chair Renê Fransen and Eddie Bonin 4. Co-Chair Shawn O’Brien and Bob Becker 5. Co-Chairs Marla Donovan, Dana Hansel and Carla Adams 6. Casie Duplechain and Paul Soniat
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Southern Hospitality
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The Ogden Museum of Southern Art honored Louisiana art, music and food at its annual elegant gala. By Shelby Simon
Drenched in Louisiana flora, tropical greenery, sparkling votive lighting and regal purple hues, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art welcomed approximately 400 patrons to its annual “O What A Night!” gala for an celebration of the best of Southern art, music and food in support of the museum’s award-winning educational programs. Recipients honored with the Opus Award were William S. Arnett, Founder of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, and American Artist Lonnie Holley. The gala took place at the Ogden’s Patrick F. Taylor Library, which featured a lounge for guests to relax and socialize amongst tropical palms arranged by Thibodeaux’s Floral Studio. A tent, provided by ELEMENT, featured elegant draping and mood-setting purple uplighting, a stunning display of dripping moss, flowers and ornate chandeliers above a white dance floor, all framed by tables adorned with purple and gold décor. During the cocktail reception, guests enjoyed contemporary and innovative Southern fare, courtesy of New Orleans Chefs Mike Stoltzfus and Kristen Essig and their restaurants, Coquette and Thalia. A silent auction, sponsored by Neal Auction Company, was hung on the walls of the library, featuring works by Sarah Allen, Christa Blackwood, Bradley L. Bowers, Ashleigh Coleman, Shawn Hall, L. Kasimu Harris, Justin Lundgren, Richard McCabe, Kristin Meyers, Jack Niven, Jessica Strahan, Carl Joe Williams, Caroline Youngblood and many more. Following the silent auction and cocktail reception, gala attendees enjoyed a seated dinner and meticulously crafted menu from James Beard award-winning Chef Justin Devillier of La Petite Grocery and Justine. Noted trumpet player Jeremy Davenport and his band and the band Patrick and the Swayzees provided musical entertainment. Patrons had the chance to preview live auction items at the Patron Party, held on Thursday, October 17, at the home of Roger H. Ogden and Ken Barnes. Highlighted artists were Michael Deas, Dusti Bonge, Simon Gunning, Horton Humble and Skylar Fein. Mathilde and Richard Currence and Michelle and Lamar Villere served as Event Chairs. n
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Event at a Glance
1. Co-Chairs Richard and Mathilde Currence and Michelle and Lamar Villere 2. Honoree Lonnie Holley and Director William Andrews 3. Jessie Haynes and David Kerstein 4. Paul Arnett and Matt Arnett 5. Billy Patout, Featured Artist Bradley L. Bowers and Michael Wilkinson 6. Featured Artist Simon Gunning and Charles Urstadt
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY GIL RUBMAN
WHAT: “O What A Night!” gala, benefiting The Ogden Museum of Southern Art WHEN: Saturday, October 19 WHERE: Ogden Museum of Southern Art
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Shining Supporters
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Seven individuals received honorable recognition at Junior Achievement’s “City Stars Soirée.” By Shelby Simon
Junior Achievement hosted a celestial “City Stars Soirée,” themed “The Stars Align for You” presented by Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust. This year’s gala was attended by approximately 325 supporters of JA’s mission to empower students to own their economic success by preparing them in financial literacy, workforce development and entrepreneurship. City Stars honored were: Lacey Conway, President of Latter & Blum; Caroline and Sabri Farouki, Founders of Farouki Farouki; Gordon Kolb Jr., President of G.H.K. Development; Keith Naccari, Partner, Sternberg, Naccari & White, LLC; Martin Roth,Vice President, Levelset; and Sevetri Wilson, Founder & CEO of Resilia. The Patron Party was catered by Celebrate! of Windsor Court and sponsored by title sponsor Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust. Food for the gala was donated by several local restaurants, including: Arnaud’s Restaurant, Come Back Inn, Dook’s Place, Francesca’s, Gazebo Café, Gracious Bakery & Café, Justine, Maypop, Mandina’s Restaurant, Mr. John’s Steakhouse, Otra Vez, Reginelli’s Pizzeria, Rimon at Tulane Hillel, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Saffron NOLA, Theo’s Neighborhood Pizza, Toulouse Gourmet and Willie’s Chicken Shack. Crescent Crown Distributing donated a craft beer bar. Uptown Phunk provided entertainment, along with an auction of more than 100 items including an exotic seven-night trip to Bali and a signed jersey from Thomas Morstead from the Saints’ 2009-2010 Super Bowl season. This year’s Chairperson was Jimmy Dunn with Co-Chair Chase Mullin. n
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Event at a Glance WHAT: “City Stars Soiree,” benefiting Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans WHEN: October 18 WHERE: 5100 Orleans Avenue
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY GIL RUBMAN
1. Honorees Sabri and Caroline Farouki with Laura and Co-Chair Chase Mullin 2. Chairperson Jimmy and Monique Dunn with Holt Kolb and Honoree Gordon Kolb Jr. 3. Honoree Sevetri Wilson with Brandon Smith and Executive Vice President Melissa Binder 4. Brian Scofield, Kelsea Roth and Honoree Martin Roth 5. Chad and Vanessa Berg with Honoree Lacey Conway and Bob Merrick 6. Tom Richert, Jennie Campbell and Honoree Keith Naccari
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Learning through Art
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KID smART centers the arts in New Orleans public school classrooms. By Shelby Simon
Christa and Matt Schwartz opened their Uptown home for 225 patrons at “Cocktails for KID smART” presented by Regions Bank. In thanks for their support, signed art prints of “Duckweed #4” by featured artist Marjorie Brown Pierson were distributed to Sponsors and Patrons. A native of south Louisiana, Pierson’s visual art explores the relationship between environment and identity. Martin Wine Cellar provided catering, including a grilling station serving Argentine grilled steak, grilled Atlantic salmon, petite heirloom tomato and goat cheese pie, tuna tartare and crab ravigote melts. David Torkanowsky and Preservation Hall All-Stars provided music. The auction artwork, presented by auctioneer Ruthie Winston of Winston & Associates LLC, was “Channel Lace” by Marjorie Brown Pierson. Co-Chairs were Martine Chaisson Linares and Erin Romney-Cazes. Through full-year artist residencies, more than 3,000 KID smART students grow academically, artistically and emotionally. Whether understanding fractions by mixing paint colors or building skills for collaboration through writing and acting out a historical play, the learning is dynamic, rigorous and designed for all learners to excel. n
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Event at a Glance
1. Ayesha Motwani, Hostess Christa Schwartz, Co-Chair Martine Chaisson Linares and Tina Dang 2. Co-Chairs Martine Chaisson Linares and Erin Romney-Cazes with Marjorie Brown Pierson and Suzanne Dumez 3. Paul and Donna Flower 4. Graham and Adele Ralston 5. Frank Wilder and Troy Scroggins Jr. 6. Cedric, David and Pam Martin
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PHOTOGRAPH ED BY JESSICA BACHMAN N
WHAT: “Cocktails for KID smart,” benefiting KID smART WHEN: Thursday, October 24 WHERE: Uptown home of Christa and Matt Schwartz
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Illuminating Hope
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A successful “Light Up the Night” benefited persons with disabilities. By Shelby Simon
“Light Up the Night” benefitted Lighthouse Louisiana and raised more than $60,000 to help empower persons with disabilities through services, employment and advocacy. The beautiful Women’s Opera Guild Home hosted a packed house with more than 150 attendees. The Goldring Family Foundation sponsored a full bar, including the Blue Vision specialty cocktail. Six local restaurants donated signature dishes, including Pasta Orleans by Mr. Ed’s Seafood and gumbo by Clancy’s. Krystal Burgers provided a late night treat. DJ Munkie C spun the tunes. More than 20 auction prizes included a custom blazer by Luca Falcone Custom Clothiers and an original painting by local artist Cleland Powel. Event Chairs were Lighthouse Board President Brian and Jennifer Capitelli with Lighthouse Board Members Blair Monroe, Julie Nosser and Susan Pereira. The J. Edgar Monroe Foundation served as the Guiding Light Sponsor and Hancock Whitney as the Spotlight Sponsor. Each guest received cookies with Hancock Whitney spelled out in braille. n
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Event at a Glance
1. Co-Chairs Jennifer and Board President Brian Capitelli with Karen Villavaso 2. Elder Gwin, CEO Renee Vidrine and Co-Chairs Julie Nosser and Susan Pereira 3. Andrew and Jenny Kingsley with Brandi and Jason Jobes
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY GIL RUBMAN
WHAT: “Light Up The Night,” benefiting Lighthouse Louisiana WHEN: Friday, October 11 WHERE: Women’s Guild Opera House
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A Celebratory Citizen
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United Way of Southeast Louisiana presented Roger H. Ogden with the 2019 Alexis de Tocqueville Award. By Shelby Simon
United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s annual gala, backing the nonprofit’s mission to eradicate poverty in the region, presented the esteemed Alexis de Tocqueville Award to 2019 honoree Roger H. Ogden. Upon receiving the award, Ogden said, “If you can paint a picture for people of how they can make a difference through giving, then the art of giving becomes more art than science.” Cathy McRae, UWSELA Tocqueville Society Cabinet Chair, welcomed attendees to the dinner gala, gave a presentation and the society introduction. Gary Lorio, UWSELA Board of Trustees Chair, gave the introduction, followed by remarks from Michael Williamson, UWSELA President & CEO. Storytellers included Giazzlyn Duncan, Jillian Delos Reyes and Ronnie Slone. Remarks were also given by UWSELA Campaign Cabinet Chair Hunter Hill as well as UWSELA Tocqueville Society Chair Florence Schornstein. Guests dined on a three-course menu, offering a salad course, burgundy braised short rib with white truffle grits and a dessert course featuring a duo plate of white chocolate tart and a chocolate crunch mousse dome. A dazzling silent auction featured grand prizes ranging from getaways to Saints packages, private dining experiences, Southern charm offerings and local staycations. The “Alexis de Tocqueville Award Celebration 2019” was presented by IBERIABANK with support from Entergy Corporation, Pres Kabacoff and generous individuals and companies. Tocqueville Society Founder Allen Favrot, as well as several former Tocqueville Award recipients were in attendance. n
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Event at a Glance
1. Board Chair Gary Lorio, Honoree Roger H. Ogden, CEO Michael Williamson and Campaign Cabinet Chair Hunter Hill 2. Tocqueville Cabinet Chair Cathy McRae and COO Charmaine Caccioppi 3. William Andrews, Jessie Haynes and Ken Barnes
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEN NY MARTINEZ
WHAT: “Alexis de Tocqueville Society Gala,” benefiting United Way of Southeast Louisiana WHEN: Thursday, October 24 WHERE: The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans
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A Legal Legend
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NCJW presented Madeleine M. Landrieu, Dean of Loyola University College of Law, with the Hannah G. Solomon Award. By Shelby Simon
The Greater New Orleans Section of the National Council of Jewish Women presented Madeleine M. Landrieu, Dean of Loyola University College of Law, with the prestigious 2019 Hannah G. Solomon Award. Dean Landrieu has spent a large part of her career advocating for improvements in laws and policies relative to children who come before the courts as a result of abuse or neglect. The award was presented October 17, at a luncheon at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel. NCJW President Susan Hess opened the luncheon with a tribute to NCJW Founder Hannah G. Solomon, who created an organization that would combine both service and activism to improve the community. Madeleine’s husband Paige Sensenbrenner presented his wife with a magnificent bouquet. In presenting the award to Landreiu, 2019 HGS Committee Chair Ana Gershanik said that improving the quality of life for women, children and families has been a strong motivation in Madeleine’s life, and that she “serves as a leader and great role model for many young (and old) people entering the legal profession and wanting to make a difference in the lives of others.” The tributes poured in from around the city and state. New Orleans City Councilmembers Joe Giarrusso and Jason Williams presented Landreiu with a Proclamation from the City of New Orleans. First Lady of Louisiana Donna Bel Edwards wrote a beautiful letter to Landreiu extolling her life of service. Alice Glenn, Legislative Director to Representative Walt Leger, presented Landreiu with a commendation from the House of Representatives. Committee members were President Susan Hess, Carol Asher, Sarah Covert, Jessica Frankel, Lis Kahn, Barbara Kaplinsky, Joyce Pulitzer, Madalyn Schenk, Flo Schornstein, Dana Shepard, Kathy Shepard, Sue Singer and Eileen Wallen. n
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Event at a Glance
1. Verna Landrieu, Paige Sensenbrenner, Honoree Madeleine M. Landrieu and Tania Tetlow 2. Committee Member Sue Singer, Committee Chair Ana Gershanik, Barbara Greenberg and President Susan Hess 3. Diana Lewis and Committee Member Barbara Kaplinsky
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT
WHAT: “Hannah G. Solomon Award Luncheon,” benefiting National Council of Jewish Women, Greater New Orleans Section WHEN: Thursday, October 17 WHERE: Sheraton Hotel
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PHIL ANTHROPIC FUN
A Cause To Shop
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More than 600 guests flocked Canal Place to champion cancer research. By Shelby Simon
The Louisiana Cancer Research Center’s “Research for the Cure” transformed Canal Place into the perfect setting for an elegant evening of dining, dancing and shopping. Close to two dozen shops opened their doors to guests who could browse between bites from two dozen of New Orleans' finest restaurants and caterers, all the while supporting the LCRC, a consortium of Louisiana’s cancer research powerhouses: LSU Health New Orleans, Tulane University School of Medicine, Xavier University of Louisiana and Ochsner Health System. Canal Place was adorned with pink tulips and roses mixed with white hydrangeas and orchid sprays underwritten by Federico’s Florist, and RSVP Decorating Inc. owner Manny Campo created large balloon displays. The shopping center was filled with the beauty and energy of dedicated supporters, fine delicacies and décor that lit up the event. Stilt walkers mingled amongst the crowd, overseeing the festivities. Champagne was passed and liquor was donated by Goldring Foundation. Food favorites served included shrimp remoulade, pumpkin custard, lobster mac and cheese, shrimp and grits and filet sliders. Silent auction items included a 54-inch pearl necklace from Jack Sutton Fine Jewelry, luxury hotel stays and fine dining. Musical entertainment began with the New Orleans Jazz Band Orchestra and ended the evening with Motown Review by ELS. At the close of the event many were still enjoying dancing with their dynamic trio of performers. Honorary Chairs were Carolyn Elder, Karen Swensen and Angela Hill. Barbara Greenberg and Sue Singer with husband Harold Singer served as Co-Chairs with generous support from many contributors. n
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Event at a Glance
1. Honorary Chairs Angela Hill, Karen Swensen and Carolyn Elder 2. Co-Chairs Sue Singer and Barbara Greenberg 3. Carole Jacobson, LCRC CEO Sven Davisson and Canal Place GM Lisa Manzella
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY KEN NY MARTINEZ
WHAT: “Research for the Cure,” benefiting Louisiana Cancer Research Center WHEN: Wednesday, October 16 WHERE: Canal Place
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PHIL ANTHROPIC FUN
Sips and Spirits
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The VCC preserves and protects the invaluable historic architectural heritage of New Orleans’ French Quarter. By Shelby Simon
More than 200 partygoers filled Broussard’s Restaurant and Courtyard for the “Spirit of the Vieux Carré Gala” benefiting Vieux Carré Commission Foundation. The gala benefits the mission of the VCC Foundation and funds the programming for the following year of programs such as the Vieux Carré Virtual Library, VCC Design Guidelines and Quarterly Care Workshops. Autumn-colored red and orange roses were arranged on the tables from Dunn & Sonnier Antiques • Flowers • Gifts. A string-lit tent in the courtyard offered conversations areas mixed with dining tables. Broussard’s catered the event, offering corn and crab beignets, a carving station with NY strip loin, redfish courtbouillion and dessert shooters, including bread pudding with Chantilly cream, fresh berries with sabayon sauce and Bananas Foster cheesecake with caramel drizzle. Local bands performed for partygoers, with a NOCCA Alumni Trio at the Patron Party and Sweet Crude at the gala. One lucky raffle winner received a Private Chef ’s Dinner for eight guests at Broussard’s, complete with wine pairings. Amanda and Ryan Berger served as Event Chairs. n
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Event at a Glance WHAT: “Spirit of the Vieux Carré Gala,” benefiting Vieux Carré Commission Foundation WHEN: Wednesday, October 16 WHERE: Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard PHOTOG RAPHED BY GIL RUBMAN
1. Gordon McLeod, VCCF President Kathryn McLeod and Event Chairs Amanda and Ryan Berger 2. Amanda McFillen, Daniel Hammer and Melissa Gibbs 3. Founder Darryl and Louellen Berger, Temple Stephens and Nicholas Russo
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A Toast to Home
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The Lambeth House gala benefited better living for its residents and for seniors. By Shelby Simon
New Orleans itself set the theme for Lambeth House’s annual gala, which took place on the grounds of Lambeth House and allows the organization to support its residents in times of need, to make improvements in our community and for research that benefits seniors everywhere. More than 220 guests were in attendance. Flowers and drapery adorned the setting in the colors of the New Orleans flag: red, white, blue and yellow. In place of table numbers, the tables were assigned by small famous New Orleans street signs. The quartet Cool Breeze performed New Orleans-themed music in the background. The open bar was sponsored by Republic National Distributors. Executive Chef at Lambeth House Jacques Saleun catered with passed hors d’oeuvres, a buffet – including boiled Gulf shrimp, braised turbot fillet and carved beef tenderloin – and dessert, with highlights including Opera Cake, Floating Island and Chambord Cream and more. Guests chose from a wide selection of auction items that included backstage access to the set of “NCIS: New Orleans,” hotel and sports packages, artwork by Terrance Osborne and a topaz necklace from Symmetry Jewelry. Live auctioneer Chris Franklin from WWL-TV entertained and excited the crowd. Event Chairs were Linda and Pierre Conner and Beth and Stephen Conner. Also in attendance were Foundation Board Chair Maureen and Arthur Huguley, Sandy Villere, Janice Parmelee and Bill Hammack, Tim Trapolin, Holly Abbott, Hartley and Blair Crunk and Susan Tyler. n
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Event at a Glance
1. Event Chairs Stephen and Beth Conner and Linda and Pierre Conner 2. Foundation Board Member Todd Thompson, Foundation Board Chair Maureen Huguley and Foundation Director Natalie Hooks 3. Sandy Villere, Chief Operating Officer Jeré Hales and Chief Executive Officer Scott Crabtree
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT
WHAT: “Lambeth House Foundation Toasts the Tricentennial,” benefiting Lambeth House WHEN: Wednesday, October 24 WHERE: Lambeth House
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By Kelcy Wilburn | Photographed by Mike Lirette
Doubling Down on Decadence
Mardi Gras & Valentine’s Day restaurant specials Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras have much in common when it comes to food – neither holiday feels complete without the over-the-top sensory experience of decadent meals, a little wine or a fancy cocktail and sweet, sharable desserts. And whether you’re indulging with a loved one in chocolate ganache or your favorite bakery’s signature King Cake,
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it’s the indulging itself that adds to the allure of both holidays. This year, Valentine’s Day falls within New Orleans’ parade weekends, adding an extra level of flare for lovers looking to double down on excitement. Restaurants across the city are gearing up to celebrate the two holidays at once with new dishes, prix fixe menus, special events and more.
Ralph’s on the Park is kicking off Valentine’s celebrations a day early with “Galentine’s Day.” On Thursday, February 13 the restaurant will offer specials on champagne tastings, rosé cocktails and dips and snacks. Then, on Valentine’s Day, couples looking to indulge can enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu with favorites such as truffle risotto, lobster pasta, filet mignon and red velvet cake. Located in Mid-City, Ralph’s is conveniently situated at the beginning of the Endymion parade, which rolls Saturday, February 22. Since King’s Day, Ralph’s has been serving revelers the King Cake cocktail as part of its monthly Cocktails for a Cause series. The sweet concoction combines vanilla vodka, Chilla Orchata, Cointreau and cream, and is finished with a Mardi Gras-colored sugar rim. Along the Uptown parade route, Emeril’s Delmonico provides a romantic and classic backdrop to enjoy a special meal. While traditionally a dinner spot, the restaurant will be offering Friday lunch service – Valentine’s lunch can be a nice precursor to a romantic night in – as well as Saturday and Sunday brunch during Mardi Gras. Emeril’s lunch menu will feature brand-new dishes including seared coriander crusted Yellowfin Tuna with boiled egg, green beans, tomato, kalamata olives, arugula and sweet basil, as well as a half-pound Creekstone beef hamburger with caramelized onions, Cabot clothbound cheddar and French fries. The brunch menu will highlight New Orleans classics with a signature Delmonico spin: panéed pork chop with a sunny side up egg, roasted poblano grits and Creole mustard jus and a jumbo lump crabmeat omelet, with Boursin cheese and fine herbs. Additionally, limited signature steaks and presentations will be available. Further Downtown, Restaurant August is also situated along certain parade routes. Under the helm of Chef Ross Dover, August continues to lure guests with its classic-inspired, contemporary cuisine and white tablecloth service. “Any day there’s a parade is a great day to be at August,” says Dover. “We offer our full menu throughout Mardi Gras and our bar is always available for a to-go drink or to sit and dine in between parades,” he says. The restaurant will be offering its regular menu on Valentine’s Day, which features August’s most popular dish: the signature potato gnocchi with blue crab, black truffle and Parmesan. “We’ve added a blue crab tagliatelle with crab fat and white Alba truffles that we’re particularly excited about for Valentine’s Day,” says Dover. Also Downtown but off of the parade route, Briquette offers an upscale casual setting for either a prix fixe Valentine’s meal or pre- and post-parade eats and drinks. For two days, February 13-14, Briquette will offer a Valentine’s three-course menu for two priced at $125 per couple. Drink and wine specials will accompany the menu, and all ladies will receive a rose upon arrival. “We are gearing up for Endymion since it ends at the Convention Center this year, and we’re the perfect spot on Mardi Gras Day for a great dinner because we’re open,” says Proprietor Anna Tusa. Indeed, many restaurants close on Fat Tuesday, so consider
dropping in at Briquette and trying the caramelized sea scallops appetizer before indulging in the snapper Pontchartrain – two of their most popular menu items. If you’re looking to simply pop in for a cocktail, consider the Bourbon-centered District Cocktail or New Fashioned.
ABOVE: Briquette’s caramelized sea scallops, Disctrict cocktail and New Fashioned. OPPOSING PAGE: Blue crab tagliatelle with crab fat and white Alba truffles at August.
If you’re a visitor to New Orleans or a local looking for a classic New Orleans experience during Valentine’s and Mardi Gras, you may want to venture into the French Quarter with a trip to 102-year-old Arnaud’s Restaurant, where many menu items have remained nearly untouched across the century and continue to be local favorites. On Valentine’s Day at 3 p.m., the Krewe of Cork parade will pass under the restaurant’s Bourbon Suites (private dining) balcony. The balcony provides a birds-eye-view and a great locale for catching throws. Arnaud’s
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can coordinate to have beads available for throwing down to the masses once the parade has passed for those interested in renting the suite(s). The à la carte menu of authentic Creole dishes will be available at Arnaud’s on Valentine’s Day and throughout Mardi Gras, and features favorites such as the Gulf fish Pontchartrain and filet mignon Charlemond. While Arnaud’s is known for its traditional French 75 cocktail, consider getting festive with Arnaud’s Carnival Colada. And, don’t forget to stop in at Arnaud’s free and open-to-the-public Mardi Gras Museum located on its second floor. Whereas Downtown and the French Quarter will bustle with many a tourist during Valentine’s and Mardi Gras, the corner of St. Charles and Napoleon avenues is often a bustling meeting point for locals and families along the parade route. Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar offers traditional New Orleans cuisine (e.g. BBQ shrimp, blackened fish, shrimp and grits) at comfortable prices with a bar that’s always packed for both its drinks and oysters. “I like to think that we’re the Swiss Army Knife of Mardi
ABOVE: Seared coriander crusted Yellowfin Tuna with boiled egg, green beans, tomato, kalamata olives, arugula and sweet basil at Emeril’s Delmonico. RIGHT: King Cake cocktail from Ralph’s on the Park. OPPOSING PAGE: Panéed pork chop with a sunny side up egg, roasted poblano grits and Creole mustard jus at Emeril’s Delmonico.
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Gras,” says John Michael Rowland, GM/Managing Partner. “We can provide whatever experience you’re looking for.” Rowland lists reserved tables along St. Charles Avenue for parade-view dining; balcony parties for families and friends with full service food and bar; family-friendly dining for large groups with kids in tow; quick cocktail service at the front door with a satellite bar; walkin tables available in the dining room; and a full-service bar for raw oysters. On Valentine’s Day, oysters are an oft-recommended ingredient, and Superior Seafood regulars love to hit up the raw or char-grilled. The most popular drink at Superior is the Frozen French 75, a sweet and tart treat you can enjoy at the bar or carry with you along the parade route. Also on St. Charles Avenue, Lula Restaurant Distillery is hosting its annual LulaGras throughout the parade season. Tickets to LulaGras include access to Lula’s parade-facing Barrel Room, an all-you-can-eat buffet, VIP private balcony for parade viewing, access to bathrooms all day and a private cash bar. Tickets range $45-$65 depending on the parade days, and parking passes are also available for purchase. If you prefer to skip the ticketed event, you can still dine at Lula and enjoy its regular menu, which includes favorites such as the sugarcane pork skewers, fried mirliton pickles and Margo’s tomato stack appetizers as well as the grilled Gulf fish and boudin stuffed quail entrées. On the cocktail
Ralph’s on the Park 900 City Park Ave. 488-1000 RalphsOnThePark.com Emeril’s Delmonico 1300 St. Charles Ave. 525-4937 EmerilsRestaurants.com/ emerils-delmonico Restaurant August 301 Tchoupitoulas St. 299-9777 RestaurantAugust.com Briquette 701 South Peters St. 302-7496 Briquette-Nola.com Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St. 523-5433 ArnaudsRestaurant.com Superior Seafood & Oysters Bar 4338 St. Charles Ave. 293-3474 SuperiorSeafoodNola.com Lula Restaurant Distillery 1532 St. Charles Ave. 267-7624 LulaNola.com Red Gravy 125 Camp St. 561-8844 RedGravyCafe.com The Country Club 634 Louisa St. 945-0742 TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com
ABOVE: Ralph’s on the Park champagne tasting flight for “Galentine’s Day.” RIGHT: Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar’s Frozen French 75. OPPOSING PAGE: Three-course Valentine’s dinner special at The Country Club, including Crab Meat Beignets, a pan-roasted 20 ounce ribeye for two and a chocolate tart.
menu, explore hand-made creations that include Lula’s vodka, gin or rum, all distilled from 100 percent Louisiana sugarcane. Focused exclusively on brunch and lunch, Red Gravy will be in Mardi Gras mode throughout February. Located one block from Canal, the restaurant is conveniently close to most parades’ routes. On Valentine’s, you and a special someone could ogle over Red Gravy’s popular breakfast spaghetti with handmade pasta and family recipe meatballs, or indulge in the weekly skillet cake, a double-decker stuffed pancake baked in a cast iron pan. Over Mardi Gras, Chef and Owner Roseann Rostoker hints that a King Cake burger will likely appear on the menu. She also recommends the sweet and spicy Carnival cochon, fried chicken
and roasted ham served with a glazed donut. “No meal is complete without our Witches’ Coffee,” adds Rostoker. If you’re looking to escape the parades for a bit, head down to the Bywater, where The Country Club will be hopping with its “infamous” Drag Brunch on the weekends. They also offer an Ash Wednesday Brunch for those looking to recover from Mardi Gras with a little extra food and drink. Escape the parades on Valentine’s, and you’ll find a threecourse Valentine’s dinner special at The Country Club available for $60 per person. The dinner includes Crab Meat Beignets, a panroasted 20 ounce rib-eye for two, and a chocolate tart with pistachio, cinnamon and yuzu.
St. Charles Avenue’s
Couture Wedding Guide By Sue Strachan
While most New Orleanians are thinking of Carnival this month, for an engaged couple it’s time to start planning for their own big day. So, since it’s time to go all out just like the city, St. Charles Avenue has chosen the festive crème de la crème for its annual “Couture Wedding Guide.”
Put a Ring on It Choosing the perfect engagement ring is the first step toward planning that perfect wedding. The team at Boudreaux’s Jewelers can guide even the most nervous and indecisive person into choosing an engagement ring, or even custom designing one.
Brandon Boudreaux, lead designer and fourth generation in the family business, says most custom projects take four to six weeks and are made in-house. It allows them time to design the ring, then show the client a rendering for approval, with the next step a wax model created by a 3-D printer for the final approval. Many of the custom pieces start with a ring that has been passed down in a family but isn’t stylistically suited. “We commonly use the stones to design a new piece,” says Boudreaux. Original gold can sometimes also be repurposed. “Gold from a previous ring is often used to a forge a gent’s wedding band,” says Boudreaux, who notes that if the gold doesn’t work in a ring redesign – it may have been worn down or repaired too much – they’ll credit its worth to the couple’s account.
OPPOSING PAGE: Z Event Gallery, photo by Arte De Vie BELOW: Boudreaux’s Jewelers RIGHT: Dark Garden, photo by Austyn-Marie Hollowell
Even though they work with cutting-edge methods, such as the 3-D printer, Boudreaux’s is still all about the craftsmanship. “The majority of the work is still done by the hands of our jewelers,” says Boudreaux “There is no substitute for that.” Gifts for the duo, parents or wedding party are also easy to choose at Boudreaux’s, with jewelry and watches ranging in styles and price.
Charting the Course Many brides – and more and more often, grooms – start off wanting to plan the event from beginning to end. Inevitably, they realize they need help. That is where an experienced event planner comes in. “It is a tremendous value in having an expert by your side throughout the planning process,” says Sapphire Events Owner Valerie Gernhauser, who adds, “We serve our clients in planning, design, production and event management, from start to finish throughout the entire process.” Gernhauser has seen it all, including moving an outdoor wedding a day earlier due to a hurricane and working with celebrity clients such as actress Candice Accola (“The Vampire Chronicles”) and guitarist Joe King (The Fray) for their wedding. “We feel like every bride and groom is a celebrity on their big day,” says Gernhauser. Z Event Company and The Event Glossary can provide a number of services that can fit the needs of a bride and groom. Owner Susan Zackin says Z Event Company offers, “Full-service wedding planning and design. We hold their hand through the whole process and make it easy.” One of the first things Zackin and her team like to do is start with the venue. “It is really important to find the right space for their needs,” says Zackin. “A lot of times they fall in love with a space based on a look, but they don’t consider all the other factors that it may or may not work for them.” The Event Glossary is a web-based marketplace for people to plan an event of any size, “be it a wedding or
social event, you can select different things that you need,” says Zackin, who started it after being asked by friends about who they should call for vendors for events. “I thought, ‘Wouldn’t this be great to do online,’” she adds. “It takes forever to search for florists online, then go through a long list, then look up venues and do the same thing. “We streamlined the process.” With select vendors on the website, a person can look by location, size of guest list and other specific details. Once vendors are chosen and put into a “basket,” a Z Event coordinator confirms the details, with the client charged a convenience fee. Because not all couples need an event planner, the glossary is a great way for a couple to choose what they need on one website, making it a huge time and money saver.
A Place for Everything There are so many great locations in New Orleans, and for many having a wedding at a hotel makes sense because so much of it can take place there: rooms for out-oftown guests, getting ready for the wedding, rehearsal dinner, catering and spaces for the ceremony and reception. With the newly opened Higgins Hotel now part of the National World War II Museum, couples now have even more options to choose from for their wedding and reception. On the original campus, receptions can be held in the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion and the U.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center, and there are spaces to have smaller receptions or wedding parties such as in BB’s Stage Door Canteen.
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Putting It Down on Paper Once the date and location are set, it’s time to pick out the invitation! “Brides are very into creating bespoke wedding stationery suites,” says Melissa Cousans Mortillaro, Owner and fourth-generation of Gem Printing. “We have printed more invitations than we can count,” says Mortillaro. “Custom envelope liners, monograms and cyphers or hand drawings of the church or venue are very popular elements brides are using to enhance their invitations,” says Mortillaro, adding that many of these elements often are carried over into customized items Gem can produce, such as the program, napkins, koozies, cups and even second-line handkerchiefs. What Mortillaro sees more lately are couples adding bellybands to their wedding invitation suites, with many customizing it with a monogram.
Food, Glorious Food
Cuisine is from American Sector Catering. The Art Deco-inspired Higgins Hotel provides a glamorous backdrop that has impressed brides with its sophisticated ambiance, says Bill Stakelum, the hotel’s Wedding Coordinator. “It is what makes it a truly unique property in the city,” says Stakelum, who adds, “It gives an Art Deco feel with modern amenities.” The largest space is the Arcadia Ballroom, which has an ample space outside it for pre-reception cocktails. There are other spaces throughout the museum that lend themselves to rehearsal dinners, wedding parties or the wedding after-party. Rosie’s on the Roof, with stunning views of the city, is a fun place to have a wedding party or shower. And, “We’re finding that a lot of out-of-town couples are adding on some sort of brunch the day after the wedding, a last chance for people to get together,” says Stakelum. “The Arcadia Terrace lends itself with beautiful floor to ceiling windows. The optimum for the hotel is 500 for a standing reception, sit-down dinner is 350. Catering is done by an in-house staff, including a person who’s assigned to the couple to help navigate them through the process. Since 1984, the InterContinental Hotel has been
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a choice location for weddings. “The memorable experience we provide makes your wedding the finest it can be,” says Gina Chimeno, Director of Sales and Marketing. “We want the special couple and their loved ones to leave the hotel with wonderful memories that will resonate for years and years.” The hotel’s largest space, LaSalle Ballroom, overlooks historic St. Charles Avenue and can accommodate up to 400 people. The hotel also has spaces that offer more intimate settings, just the right size for the hotel’s “Elopement” packages, when weddings can be for 25 people or less. As for cuisine, “We offer a variety of menus and culinary delights that can will tempt any palate,” says Chimeno. “We offer sample menus to use as a starting point for what they have in mind and to fit their budget.” The hotel also has a list of preferred vendors, whether it be for cakes, florals, decor or a second-line. With wedding specialist Lindsey Rinaudo on staff, your special day will flow even smoother. She is the person the couple will meet with initially about the menus, then act as a liaison through the process at the hotel.
After 36 years in business, John Rowland’s Southern Hospitality Catering knows how to keep a party well fed. The company has catered bachelors and bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding parties and receptions for numerous local and out-of-town clients. Rowland and his team can customize a menu by cuisine or how formal the event is – for example if the reception is a sit-down dinner or buffet – and will accommodate food allergies and dietary needs. “There are a lot of different options to present and serve the food,” says Rowland. “A wedding reception can start with passed hors d’oeuvres with a custom cocktail or champagne – we have seen a lot of prosecco-based drinks,” he says, “then open the buffet or start the sit-down dinner.” Rowland has found that out-oftown clients like to kick off festivities with a crawfish boil, with the rehearsal dinner the next night, followed by the wedding and reception. Southern Hospitality Catering will
OPPOSING PAGE: Lobby of The Higgins Hotel, photo courtesy of National World War II Museum BELOW: Bittersweet Confections TOP RIGHT: GEM Printing BOTTOM RIGHT: Dark Garden, photo by Austyn-Marie Hollowell
also accent food stations and displays with floral arrangements, tablecloths, props and other elements.
Icing on the Top When Bittersweet Confections’ Cheryl Scripter got married 31 years ago, her three-tier wedding cake had a Swiss dot design and some flowers on top, “Very simple and clean,” she says. For the cake, she really wanted the inside to be chocolate, but was told that it was customary for the groom’s cake to be that. Instead, her husband got the chocolate cake, rugby themed. For today’s brides and grooms, Bittersweet Confections offers a variety of flavors and designs for the bride and groom. And it all starts with a phone call or at a scheduled tasting. “It’s always helpful for the client to come into the tasting with some ideas of what they like,” says Scripter. “It’s fun to listen to their ideas,
whether it’s colors, overall theme.” Scripter also likes to know where the venue is, as that can also set a tone, noting that they handle all the details, from design to delivery to set up. Popular wedding cake flavors are almond, vanilla, red velvet and chocolate, with more than 14 buttercream frostings from which to choose. “Where do I start!” says Scripter, about groom’s cakes in the shapes of dogs, cats, raccoons, crawfish pots, all types of fish, guitars and Star Wars-themed, to name a few. Some couples either opt out of cake or want even more sweets at the reception, and Bittersweet Confections can set up a dessert bar of mini-cupcakes, handmade chocolate truffles, chocolate pecan tarts and cookies. Bittersweet Confections can also deliver breakfast, coffee, lunch and savory snacks to the hotel or wherever people are staying, as well as create “Welcome Bags” filled with pralines, chocolate fleur-de-lis, sugar cookies and other New Orleans-centric gifts.
Blooms of Love Lush, lavish and gorgeous is a good way to describe the floral extravaganzas designed by Kim Starr Wise Floral Events.
It is in Wise’s blood: her mother and great aunts were floral designers; her father a landscape designer. It gives Wise a unique perspective on what works and what doesn’t for a wedding. This ultimately led to Wise into growing the company
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into a production house, where she and her team can design a custom look using china, linens, candles and furniture, among other items, and of course florals. “We are a top-to-bottom, one-stop shop,” says Wise, about designing an ambiance for a wedding, or any special occasion, including dinner parties. It is a service that has attracted actress Lake Bell (“No Strings Attached”), who got married at Marigny Opera House with Cameron Diaz as a bridesmaid; Julie Lake (“Orange is the New Black”); and Candice Accola (“The Vampire Chronicles”) and guitarist Joe King (The Fray).
Dressed to the Nines What the bride, groom, wedding party and parents wear often sets the tone of the wedding.
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Perlis is renowned for its experience fitting grooms and groomsmen with tuxedos, white tie and tails and suits. Men can either rent or purchase, says Bebe Rafferty, Perlis Marketing Coordinator, recommending that they rent or buy three months in advance, with measurements into the store no later than one month before. Alterations are free and done on the premises. The smallest tuxedo size is 4 (for a 3- or 4-year-old) and largest is 60, extra long. If men want to personalize their look, the store has themed cummerbunds and ties, such as Mardi Gras, available for purchase. Women can find a cocktail dress or gown for the wedding, and alterations are also free. Suzanne Perron St. Paul is well-versed in white gowns – she’s the go-to local designer for wedding, debutante and Carnival queen dresses.
TOP LEFT: Kim Starr Wise, photo by Lance Nicoll TOP RIGHT: Map of New Orleans serving tray from The Historic New Orleans Collection BOTTOM LEFT: Southern Hospitality Catering
After years working for Vera Wang and Carolina Herrera in New York City, she brought back to New Orleans a keen design sense and a vast knowledge of fabrics and how they work. For a custom wedding dress, St. Paul says she needs six to nine months, depending on what time of year, to make the dress. (The time leading up to Carnival is particularly busy for her.) She views her dresses “as a collaboration with the client.” St. Paul recommends brides bring in photos, a Pinterest board and other visuals to give her direction and inspiration. “What distinguishes my dresses are the fit,” she says, noting her couture training. Autumn Adamme founded Dark Garden in 1989, after
Bittersweet Confections 725 Magazine St., 523-2626 639 N. Hennessey St., 407-3332 BittersweetConfections.com
BELOW: Bittersweet Confections RIGHT: Dark Garden, photo by Austyn-Marie Hollowell
Boudreaux’s Jewelers 701 Metairie Road 831-2602, BoudreauxsJewelers.com Dark Garden 3528 Magazine St. 417-9751, DarkGarden.com Elizabeth’s 204 Metairie Road 833-3717 Gem Printing 1904 Veterans Memorial Blvd. 834-9580, GemPrinting.com Higgins Hotel at National World War II Museum 1000 Magazine St., 528-1941 HigginsHotelNola.com 945 Andrew Higgins Drive 528-1944 NationalWW2Museum.org/ private-event-rentals
studying couture techniques, fashion design and fashion history. “My original focus was on historical costume, but I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed the relative freedom of creating wedding ensembles,” says Adamme. Dark Garden is also known for its corset designs. “The most frequent reasons brides get them are for the beautiful and comfortable support they provide, whether it’s hidden beneath a gown or acts as the bodice in their look.” There are three levels for corsets for purchase: ready-to-wear, made-to-order and full bespoke – some of which are available at the store on Magazine Street. “We work closely with our clients to ensure their complete happiness, not only with the finished garment, but with the garment itself,” says Adamme. “The most important thing is that the bride looks and feels beautiful!” “Today’s mother-of-the-bride doesn’t want to look like the ‘mother-of-the-bride,’” says Sal Trentacoste, Owner of Elizabeth’s. “She wants to look modern.” Elizabeth’s carries a number of unique designers and brands not found at department stores – so there’s less of the dreaded dress duplication at the wedding or other events surrounding it.
The store’s personalized service is a bonus, with their experienced eyes for fashion – Elizabeth’s has been in business for 36 years – guiding the choice. “We can help a client choose an outfit that’s flattering,” says Trentacoste.
Gifts with Louisiana Flair The Historic New Orleans Collection’s gift shop is a celebration of New Orleans and Louisiana. “The majority of the items have some relation to the museum’s mission,” says Teresa Devlin, THNOC Marketing Manager. “A lot of the items are made using art from our holdings,” continues Devlin. “We have put images on pint glasses, serving trays and engraved cups. Reprints of maps and artwork from the collection, framed or unframed, are available. The shop also sells crafts by Louisiana artists: ceramics by Rachael DePauw; woodworking from Greg Arceneaux and Nick Conner; large-scale ceramics, such as garden planters, by Peggy Bishop; jewelry by Brandi Couvillion and Alison Ford Metals; textiles by Kathy Schorr, Jill Shampine and Passion Lilie by Katie Schmidt.
The Shop at The Historic New Orleans Collection 533 Royal St. 523-4662, HNOC.org Hotel InterContinental 444 St. Charles Ave. (800) 445-6563 ICNewOrleans.com Perlis 6070 Magazine St. 895-8661, Perlis.com Sapphire Events 900 Camp St. 383-4376, SapphireEvents.com Southern Hospitality Catering 897-0477, SouthernHospitalityCatering.com Suzanne Perron St. Paul 899-6895, SuzannePerron.com Kim Starr Wise Floral Events 437 Philip St. 315-5607, KimStarrWise.com Z Event Company & The Event Glossary 508 Metairie Road 510-5838, ZEventCo.com EventGlossary.com
SPONSORED
2020 Bridal Resource Directory BEAUTY SERVICES The Spa at Windsor Court 300 Gravier St., New Orleans (888) 441-0137 WindsorCourtHotel.com/spa Woodhouse Day Spa 5004 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie 504.584.4004 WoodhouseSpas.com BOUTIQUES - CLOTHING, LINGERIE, ACCESSORIES Ballin’s 2917 Magazine St., New Orleans 721 Dante St., New Orleans 504.866.4367 BallinsLtd.com Dark Garden Corsetry and Couture 3528 Magazine St., New Orleans 504.417.9751 DarkGarden.com FeBe 474 Metairie Road, #103, Metairie 504.835.5250 FebeClothing.com PERLIS Clothing 6070 Magazine St., New Orleans, 504-895-8661 600 Decatur St., French Quarter, 504-523-6681 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-674-1711 8366 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, 225-926,5909 Perlis.com Sassy Royals, Hats for All Occasions 337.540.3098 @SassyRoyals SassyRoyals.com BRIDAL BOUTIQUE Pearl’s Place 3114 Severn Ave., Metairie 504.885.9213 PearlsPlace.com CATERING Cajun Caviar 504.813.3515 CajunCaviar.com Ralph Brennan Catering 4330 Dumaine St., New Orleans 504.539.5510 RalphBrennanCatering.com
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CUSTOM INVITATIONS & PERSONALIZED ITEMS Betty Hunley Designs 6057 Magazine St., New Orleans 504.895.2870 BettyHunley.com GEM Printing 1904 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie 504.834.9580 504.831.1762 GemPrinting.com Party Cup Express 121 Industrial Ave., Jefferson 504.835.5465 giacona@giacona.com PartyCupExpress.com FLOWERS Ambrose Garden 1309 Prytania St., New Orleans 504.861.1953 TheNewOrleansFlorist.com Fabulous Flowers By Appointment 504.909.0253 FabulousFlowers.us Kim Starr Wise Floral Events 437 Philip St., New Orleans 504.315.5607 KimStarrWise.com MENSWEAR John’s Tuxedos 3200 Houma Blvd., Metairie 504.455.5553 JohnsTuxedos.com PERLIS Clothing New Orleans, 504.895.8661 French Quarter, 504.523.6681 Mandeville, 985.674.1711 Baton Rouge, 225.926.5909 Perlis.com Rome’s Tuxedos 3213 17th St., Metairie 504.324.7227 RomesTuxedos.com PRIVATE DINING & RECEPTION VENUES Antoine’s Restaurant 713 St. Louis St., New Orleans Private Dining Director: 504.508.1981 Antoines.com
Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St., New Orleans 504.523.0611 ArnaudsRestaurant.com
Restaurant August 301 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans 504.299.9777 RestaurantAugust.com
Briquette Restaurant 701 S. Peters St., New Orleans 504.302.7496 Briquette-Nola.com
Riverboat Louis Armstrong 504.293.2314 KNewman@BigEasy.com RiverboatLouisArmstrong.com
Briquette Wine Room 719 S. Peters St., New Orleans 504.302.7496 Briquette-Nola.com
The Elms Mansion 3029 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans 504.895.9200 ElmsMansion.com
Chateau Golf and Country Club 3600 Chateau Blvd., Kenner 504.467.1351 ChateauGCC.com
The National WWII Museum 945 Magazine St., New Orleans 504.528.1944, extension 288 Rentals@NationalWW2Museum.org NationalWW2Museum.org
Club XLIV & Encore Champions Square, New Orleans 504.587.3663 ChampionsSquare.com/book-your-event/ club-xliv-weddings Compass Point 200 Opelousas Ave., New Orleans 504.366.1768 CompassPointEvents.com Intercontinental Hotel New Orleans 444 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans 504.525.5566 ICNewOrleans.com JW by Marriott New Orleans 614 Canal Street, New Orleans 504.525.6500 JWMarriottNewOrleansWeddings.com Latrobe’s on Royal 403 Royal St., New Orleans 504.299.0601 LatrobesOnRoyal.com Ogden Museum of Southern Art 925 Camp St., New Orleans 504.539.9607 OgdenMuseum.org Orpheum 129 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans 504.934.3338 Tricia@OrpheumNOLA.com OrpheumNOLA.com Pat O’s on the River 600 Decatur St., New Orleans 504.561.1200 PatOBriensPrivateEvents.com
The Windsor Court 300 Gravier St., New Orleans (855) 942-0794 Weddings@WindsorCourtHotel.com WindsorCourtHotel.com WEDDING GIFTS Home Malone 629 N. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans 504.324.8352 HomeMaloneNola.com Judy at the Rink 2727 Prytania St., New Orleans 504.891.7018 @JudyAtTheRink WEDDING RESOURCES The Event Glossary 504.510.5838 @eventglossary on Instagram EventGlossary.com WEDDING PLANNING SERVICES Sapphire Events 900 Camp St., Suite 358, New Orleans 504.383.4376 SapphireEvents.com Z Event Company 508 Metairie Road, Metairie 504.510.5838 @zeventcompany on Instagram ZEventCo.com WEDDING GOWN PRESERVATION Liberto Cleaners 4814 Prytania St., New Orleans 504.897.2161 LibertoCleaners.com
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V I N TA G E W E D D I N G
Susan Louise Read Weds Edward Douglas Johnson Jr. January 20, 1968 By Bev Church
Susan Read attended Sacred Heart, Rosemont College and Newcomb College, where she pledged Kappa Kappa Gamma. Doug Johnson attended St. Martin’s and the University of Texas, where he was president of his fraternity Sigma Chi. He then attended grad school at Tulane University while working at Boeing. Susan and Doug met at a debutante party in 1966, but they had “please escorts” with other people. Doug wanted to ask Susan out, finally asking her to go to Le Petit Théâtre! They started dating in April 1966 and were engaged on July 2, 1967. This is the same year that Susan was Queen of Osirus and was a Maid in Rex and Mithras. She was madly in love with Doug, and for that reason did not formally make a debut. Doug was always going to be her date! Susan was busy at her first semester of her
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senior year at Newcomb, so of course most of the planning for her wedding was done by her mom, Natalie Read! They bought her wedding dress and picked out bridesmaids dresses at Kreeger’s. They wanted the wedding at Holy Name of Jesus Church and the reception at the New Orleans Country Club. Nat called Rohm’s to do the flowers for the club and bouquets for Susan and her bridesmaids, who included her sister and Maid of Honor Caroline, Elizabeth Pipes, Linda Legardeur, Suzanne Dupuy, Anne McIlhenny, Jean Denechaud and Sissy Lawson. Doug chose Brooks Emory as his best man and Bubby Sarpy, Bobby Kerrigan, Charlie Steen, Dick Hesse, Tommy Coleman, Walter Mooney, John Reynolds and Susan’s brothers, Michael and Stephen Read, as groomsmen.
There were cocktail parties, showers and luncheons galore leading up to the wedding, including a fabulous party at Edith and Edgar Stern’s at Longue Vue. Susan’s dad, Louis Read, was the vice president and managing partner at WDSU. The rehearsal dinner was at the Pontchartrain Hotel in a private room, and the wedding reception for about 600 friends was a cocktail buffet. Susan and Doug stayed their first night at the Royal Orleans Hotel and then were off to their honeymoon at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Alabama. Susan and Doug have three beautiful girls and eight grandchildren. Susan has stayed active, chairing many fundraisers and Junior League activities, and Doug is a founding partner at Johnson Rice here in New Orleans! n
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WITH THIS RING
Bailey – Meachum By Megan Holt
In October 2011, two women who were friends at Southern Methodist University reconnected at their 25th college reunion and realized that they both had children attending Texas Christian University. One of these children, Page Carrère Bailey, thought this was a neat coincidence and decided to send a Facebook message inviting the other to lunch: “Hey Will! So, I think our moms are friends? I was wondering if you wanted to get together for lunch or go out sometime when we get back from [Thanksgiving] break?” Robert William Meachum Jr. responded, “Yeah, I’d love to get together once we get back [from break]! When would be a good time for you to meet up?” Before they met, Page confided in her roommate “I don’t know why, but I have really good feeling about this, but I don’t want to get my hopes up!” Will picked Page up from her dorm and they went to Panera Bread for lunch. Page had a test the next day and knew she needed to study. They lost track of time, and over two hours later they ended up rushing back to campus and swapping phone numbers! Seven years later, the couple was visiting Will’s grandparents’ house in Jackson, Wyoming over Christmas. They were walking towards the antler arches in the town’s main square, which were all wrapped in twinkle lights, and Page asked if Will wanted a picture because the arches were so pretty. They took the picture, and after the picture he got down on one knee and proposed. As Page said yes, she had no way of knowing that Jackson lets visitors log in to the city’s webcams pointed at the square, so her parents were watching the whole proposal live from New Orleans, the city where Will and Page would marry! The celebration began with the rehearsal at Arnaud’s, where guests enjoyed signature dishes such as French 75s, souffléd potatoes, shrimp Arnaud and Bananas Foster.
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The next day, October 12, 2019, Page’s godmother and a family friend hosted a lunch for the bride and her attendants. Later that afternoon, Page walked down the aisle of the chapel at Academy of the Sacred Heart, where she – as well as her mother, aunts, cousins and grandmother – had attended school. Her something borrowed, a handkerchief wrapped around her bouquet, had been carried by her grandmother on her own wedding day. After the ceremony officiated by Msgr. Christopher Nalty, the festivities continued at the New Orleans Country Club. The New Orleans Country Club created a custom menu for the reception, complete
with a raw bar overflowing with oysters, a sushi bar with chefs hand-rolling sushi all night and an avocado bar featuring avocado halves with many different toppings to “dress” the avocados. The groom’s cake in the shape of the TCU stadium paid tribute to the place where they met and fell in love. Guests felt the love as they watched Page and Will during their first dance as a married couple to the Beatles’ song “I Will.” After an amazing night celebrating with family and friends, the newlyweds took a weeklong honeymoon to Maui, Hawaii. They live in Dallas, where Will is a commercial real estate analyst and Page is a pediatric registered dietitian. n
WITH THIS RING
RECEPTION DÉCOR: Katie Rafferty Carnival papier mâché white flowers, twinkle lights and greenery COORDINATOR: Vicki Evans Events CEREMONY MUSIC: Jodi McWilliams WEDDING GOWN: Modern Trousseau from Wedding Belles BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES: LulaKate from Wedding Belles GROOM’S AND GROOMSMEN’S ATTIRE: Black tie from Perlis New Orleans ENGAGEMENT RING: Round, brilliant cut diamond with round full cut diamonds as accents custom made by Christina Elmore in Dallas, TX BRIDE’S WEDDING BAND: Diamond eternity band with round full cut diamonds custom made by Christina Elmore in Dallas, TX GROOM’S WEDDING BAND: Gold band from Friend and Company engraved with the couple’s initials and date of ceremony FLORIST: Mead Wenzel FAVOR: Purple koozie with “M” on one side and the couple’s names and wedding date on the other, and handmade sugar cookies by Will’s aunt INVITATION: Ivory Crane and Co. card designed by Betty Hunley with calligraphy by Gina Cox WEDDING CAKE: Beth Biundo Sweets GROOM’S CAKE: Zoe’s Bakery in Covington, PHOTOGRAPHER: Jessica Bachmann Photography HAIR: Casie Caillouet MAKEUP: Naomi Corass MUSIC: ELS
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PERFORMING ARTS
February By Fritz Esker
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SOMETHING ROTTEN! Set in 1595, this hilarious comedy tells the story of two brothers’ efforts to write the world’s very first musical. Le Petit Théâtre, 616 St. Peter St., 522-2081, LePetitTheatre.com VIAGARA FALLS On Charley’s 77th birthday he’s forced to examine the importance of friendships and emotions that haven’t dimmed with age. Westwego Performing Arts Theater, 177 Sala Ave., 885-2000, JPAS.org
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MOTHER COURAGE AND HER CHILDREN Bertolt Brecht’s classic drama is transported from Europe during the Thirty Years War to the American Southwest after the Civil War. Southern Rep Theatre, 2541 Bayou Road, 523-9857, SouthernRep.com
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THE MOUSETRAP A group of strangers discover one among them is a murderer in this classic whodunit from Agatha Christie. Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Drive, 731-4700, JPAS.org
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LOUIS C.K. Six-time Emmy Award winning comedian Louis C.K. (Louie, Horace and Pete) will perform for two nights at the Orpheum. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 523-6530, OrpheumNOLA.com
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DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE The popular PBS children’s show Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood brings its familyfriendly interactive live show to New Orleans. The Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., 525-1052, SaengerNOLA.com
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LADIES NIGHT OUT Celebrity host NeNe Leakes leads a comedy tour featuring Adele Givens, Sherri Shepard, Kym Whitley and B Simone. The Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., 525-1052, SaengerNOLA.com TYLER PERRY’S MADEA FAREWELL PLAY TOUR Comedian Tyler Perry brings his beloved tough-talking, gun-toting grandma Madea to the stage one last time. Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Drive, 587-3663, SmoothieKingCenter.com CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY The musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic children’s tale about young Charlie Bucket’s journey through chocolate magnate Willy Wonka’s world of pure imagination is a delight for all ages. The Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., 525-1052, SaengerNOLA.com
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…AND THE BALL AND ALL Some of New Orleans’ funniest male actors, including Ricky Graham, don wigs and heels to play the ladies of the Krewe of Terpsichore. Becky Allen will make a special guest appearance. Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., 461-9475, RivertownTheaters.com
ALAN JACKSON Country Music Hall of Fame member Alan Jackson brings decades of hits to the Crescent City. Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Drive, 587-3663, SmoothieKingCenter.com AMOUR ET MARDI GRAS WITH KEITH SWEAT AND FRIENDS This R&B event that celebrates Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras features Keith Sweat, Kem, Monica, Donell Jones and SWV. Smoothie King Center, 1501 Dave Dixon Drive, 587-3663, SmoothieKingCenter.com 311 The rap-rock-reggae hybrid band from the 1990s comes to the Fillmore for two shows. The Fillmore, 6 Canal St., 881-1555, FillmoreNOLA.com
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SILVERSUN PICKUPS American alternative rock band Silversun Pickups is touring in support of their 2019 album Widow’s Weeds. The Fillmore, 6 Canal St., 881-1555, FillmoreNOLA.com
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LPO: NATURE’S AWAKENING WITH BEETHOVEN’S “PASTORAL SYMPHONY” Guest conductor Francesco Lecce-Chong returns for a program that features the works of Prokofiev, Beethoven and Ives. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 523-6530, OrpheumNOLA.com
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BON IVER + TU DANCE: COME THROUGH Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon merges his indie rock with the dance stylings of contemporary dance troupe TU Dance. The Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., 525-1052, SaengerNOLA.com
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YO U N G B LO O DS
Todd Wackerman Founder, STEM Library Lab By Lindsay Mack
Todd Wackerman, Jovan Montaque Librarian and School Outreach Coordinator and Kathy Gauthier Operations and Fundraising VISTA
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demonstrate principles of static electricity with a Van de Graaff generator in class, without any shocking surprises. In addition to equipment rental services, the STEM Library Lab team also provides support for teachers with lesson planning and classroom management. They even launched a free store for teachers, which offers new and used classroom supplies to any teacher in any field. Although it’s only been in operation for about a year and a half, the STEM Library Lab has already improved the teaching experience in many classrooms throughout the city. One high school chemistry teacher showed up to the lab for the first time, went wide-eyed from the amount of stuff available, and walked out with about $1,000 worth of labware he put into use the next day. Sometimes, educators return every week to borrow new equipment. “Honestly, I could give you exciting teacher
stories all day,” says Wackerman. Local businesses or other organizations who have materials to donate to the STEM Library Lab, or the free store for teachers, are welcome to get in touch. Currently, getting the word out about the STEM Library Lab is the organization’s biggest goal. The lab is already partnered with over 20 area schools, but the team would like to increase this impact. On January 22, the lab hosted an awareness-raising event inviting the community to learn more about its lending library and resources, hoping to bring in even more schools. “Anyone in this city is one degree away from an educator who can benefit,” says Wackerman. n
Get Involved To learn more or to donate, visit StemLibraryLab.org or email info@ stemlibrarylab.org.
PHOTO BY CHERY L GERBER
While working as a science teacher in New Orleans, Todd Wackerman faced a common dilemma: lab materials are often outside the school’s budget. To help other educators facing a similar issue, Wackerman created the STEM Library Lab, an equipment share center for teachers. Now educators all over the greater New Orleans area have access to sensors, iron filings, electromagnets or plenty of other supplies they need to create cool and interactive in-class labs. Annual membership to the STEM Library Lab provides teachers with access to over $120,000 in STEM classroom equipment. The current inventory includes everything from a 3D printer to a 4D animal cell model. Plenty of laboratory basics, including beakers, spring scales and test tubes, are also available. Plus, the STEM Library Lab team also offers support and training with the materials. Teachers can confidently
STUDENT ACTIVIST
Gabriel Joseph Wright Archbishop Rummel High School By Mallory Lindsly
“The most important feeling I’ve gained from my activism has definitely been humility. As a result, I personally view situations differently and always remember to think of those who have it so much worse than I,” says Gabriel Joseph Wright, a senior at Archbishop Rummel High School. Wright plays a large role in Rummel’s community. He is the president of the Social Action Lasallian Team (SALT) and Big Brothers. He also has role in the student council, campus ministry and Mu Alpha Theta. “Something as simple as spending the day at a food bank helps countless people, who can never repay you for what you did, but are helped immensely from your service,” says Wright. “If every student dedicated two hours per week to service, we would begin to develop into a community of acceptance and understanding.” Wright spent a week in Memphis, Tennessee, and served a local homeless shelter at the Manna House. There, volunteers worked to serve the homeless in any way needed, serving food, handing out clothes and helping fill out job applications. As the president of SALT, Wright began a monthly trip to the Harry Tompson Center, a nonprofit that assists the homeless of New Orleans. On the second Tuesday of each month, a group of Rummel students go to the center and prepare and distribute 150
boxed lunches for the homeless. Wright was inspired to become a student activist because of his grandfather, Ronald Chevis. Having served in government offices and as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army, Chevis always made sure to put others before himself. “Due to the fact that my grandfather spent every day with me as I was growing up, he ensured to instill a sense of gratitude for what I have and a remembrance of those who need our help,” says Wright. “Every time I would leave the house to do works of service, whether it be for a few hours or a few weeks, my grandfather always made sure to tell me how proud he was and to remind me that what I’m doing truly makes a difference.” Wright is deciding between attending Loyola University or Tulane University this fall. He hopes to be a corporate attorney for a large company in New York, California or Texas. n
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S H O P TA L K
Ellen Balkin Director of Education, Ogden Museum of Southern Art By Lani Griffiths
What are your responsibilities as Director of Education? I lead Ogden Museum’s efforts to fulfill our educational mission to provide innovative programs and tours designed to bring art and people together. I also foster relationships with area educators, students and artists, to make certain the museum is embracing and engaging the entire New Orleans community.
Are there any upcoming events you would like to showcase? The exhibition, “Melvin Edwards: Crossroads,” will open to the public on Saturday, February 8, and will 62 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
How can we help support Ogden Museum? If you join as a member, you’re able to visit the museum as much as you would like! By attending exhibition openings, gallery talks, panel discussions and other events, you’re supporting our mission. You can also volunteer at the museum as a Docent and provide informative and engaging tours to visitors of all ages, helping them to make meaningful connections with Southern art and artists. You can also make a donation to Ogden Museum – large or small, every contribution helps support our dynamic exhibitions and educational offerings. Is there anything else you’d like us to know about the museum? Whether it’s a visitor’s 50th or first visit to the Ogden Museum, we aim to present visitors of all ages with a welcoming, active and inviting experience that fosters a lifelong involvement in the arts – and don’t forget that we’re free to all Louisiana residents on Thursdays, thanks to the generous support of The Helis Foundation! OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539-9650, OgdenMuseum.org
PHOTO BY JEFFE RY JOHNS TON
What is the most rewarding part of your job? I feel delighted and fortunate to play a role in exposing New Orleans youth to the art of the American South. Through educational tours, summer camps, adult workshops, free family days and other programming, we’re able to introduce adults and kids to Southern artists and provide them with an outlet for creative expression and exploration. Our educational programs reached more than 17,000 people in 2019, and we’re always eager to share the museum with new audiences. Many educators in the greater New Orleans area don’t know that the museum is free to all Orleans Parish and Jefferson Parish public school groups. We are committed to reaching new schools each year, with the hope that someday every student will have the chance to experience the museum.
feature metal assemblages that explore the formal, familial and conceptual affinities between Edwards’ work and that produced by African artists and artisans.
S H O P TA L K
Robert Lyall General & Artistic Director, New Orleans Opera Association By Lani Griffiths
Tell us a little about what you do for the New Orleans Opera Association. My formal titles are the General and the Artistic Director of the New Orleans Opera. This first title is one with an administrative focus and the second involves overseeing the artistic focus and planning of the Opera Association. There’s always a balancing act between these two functions.
PHOTO BY J EFFERY J OHNSTON
Why is New Orleans called America’s first city of Opera? Historical documentation of the first known opera production in North America took place in the French Quarter in May of 1796. The influence of opera on the cultural development of New Orleans was profound. Does the NOOA hold any education or community events? We have a robust education program for both children and adults. Through the generous support of our sponsors, we’re able to provide free tickets to our fully staged dress rehearsals to regional students. We also offer in-school performances and programming. For adults we offer programming through our Opera Nouvelle Series and Opera on Tap. What upcoming event or production are you most excited for? Our February production of Tchaikovsky’s opera, Joan of Arc, is a unique combination of the NOOA’s mission to offer world-class opera
productions and a celebration of the profound influence of French history and culture on our own heritage. Joan of Arc is considered the patron saint of New Orleans, so we’re also celebrating the 100th anniversary of her canonization. This is the first time that this opera – a work frequently produced in the United States – has been performed in our city, so it’s a special event for the NOOA and for the opera-loving audience. Are there any specific areas of the NOOA that you would like to highlight? Our modern history is now 78 years old, and in that time, NOOA has played a prominent role in developing opera in America. We have enhanced the art form through our Scenic Studio, which developed physical productions that were a prominent presence throughout opera companies in the United States. What production or show would you recommend to an Opera novice? This season it would be Mozart’s The Magic Flute. However, an individual’s encounter with any of the great masterpieces of the core repertoire of opera, like Madama Butterfly or La Bohème, will provide a wonderful gateway to the exhilarating world of opera. NEW ORLEANS OPERA ASSOCIATION, 935 Gravier St., 529-3000, NewOrleansOpera.org SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 63
S N A P S H OT S By Marie Gabriel 1
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1. Dawn Bradley Fletcher and David Schlakman attended the New Orleans Women and Children’s Shelter “There’s No Place Like Home” gala, held at the Audubon Golf Clubhouse in May, to celebrate the shelter’s 10th anniversary and present the first ever “Jackie and Dan Silverman Homeless Champion Award” to Debbie Rees. 2. Jackie and Dan Silverman are pictured at The Audubon Golf Clubhouse in May for “There’s No Place Like Home,” a gala to benefit the New Orleans Women and Children’s Shelter. The fundraising event featured live music by Caren Green & Friends, local cuisine and a silent auction. 3. Camille Whitworth celebrated the National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana’s 50th anniversary in June at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. Guests were transported back to the 1960s with groovy music, fabulous food, cool cocktails and retro, life-sized games provided by See Hear Productions. 4. Dr. Jill Lindberg and Dr. Julio E. Figueroa Jr. partied like it was 1969 at the National Kidney Foundation of New Orleans’ 50th anniversary celebration in June. Held in June at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, the event raised funds to support the programs and services of the Foundation, including promotion of living organ donors and extensive public health education campaigns. 5. Lilette Restaurant staff Blake Pearson, Cyrus Burley, Corey Grothe and Kristina Bravo posed for a photo during “A Seat at the Table,” a benefit dinner for Fund 17 in June. Grothe’s menu highlighted local produce and businesses, such as River Queen Greens and Anna Marie Shrimp. 6. Artist Journey Allen and a guest attended Fund 17’s benefit dinner at Lilette Restaurant as a featured entrepreneur. Allen has grown her business – an art studio and “paint and sip” venue – with the help of Fund 17. The dinner raised almost $5,000 for Fund 17’s programs, which provide accessible business training and resources to New Orleans community members.
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S N A P S H OT S By Marie Gabriel 7
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7. Shaniece Bickham, Vice President of the Pontchartrain Chapter of The Links, Inc., posed with the chapter’s President Kiana Mitchell, Programs Co-Chair Raquel G. Richmond, Fundraising Chair Keely Thibodeaux and Immediate Past President Sarah Moody Thomas at the group’s fundraiser “An Emerald Experience: The Essence of a Day Party” at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans in July. 8. Pontchartrain Chapter of The Links, Inc. Sponsorship Sub-Committee Chair Sylvia Rushing, Technology Chair Yvonne Mitchell Grubb, Public Relations Sub-Committee Chair Jinx Broussard and Communications/Public Relations Chair Sheryl Kennedy Haydel attended “An Emerald Experience: The Essence of a Day Party” in July. Proceeds from the event will benefit the chapter’s programming in five key areas: Services to Youth, National Trends and Services, International Trends and Services, The Arts and Health and Human Services. 9. Karen Miller, Kevin Gardere, Nina Hansen Quinn and Swati Shah are pictured at Generation’s Hall for the Bridge House/Grace House’s 19th annual “Mr. Legs Pageant” in July. The anticipated event helps provide treatment to the 800 men and women Bridge House/Grace House serves every year. 10. Dean Liljeber and Tony Bertucci participated in the “2019 Mr. Legs Pageant,” a unique fundraiser to benefit Bridge House/Grace House, Louisiana’s only organization offering long-term residential, gender specific treatment, regardless of one’s ability to pay. After strutting his stuff and raising the most money, Matt Rinard was named Mr. Legs XIX. 11. (Seated) Will Schober, Rennee Schober, Lauren Bourg and Jeanne Tripoli posed with (standing) Albert Robichaux Jr., and Chuck Sabin at “Senior Moments,” a fundraising gala to benefit the Jefferson Council on Aging and their senior centers held at the Metairie Country Club in August. 12. Tracey McConduit, Albert Robichaux Jr., Carol and John Hall and Claudia Shabetai attended “Senior Moments” at the Metairie Country Club in August. Guests were treated to gourmet food, live music, a silent auction and more. Proceeds from the gala benefited the Jefferson Council on Aging and their senior centers.
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SPONSORED
GIFT
GUIDE
Art & Eyes
(504) 891-4494 ArtAndEyesNewOrleansLA.com
PLATOY CAT SUNS by Akira Ishiwatari are homemade by artisan Fabio Stramare and available at Art & Eyes, $595.
Ballin’s LTD
(504) 866-4367 BallinsLtd.com Bee My Valentine by Julie Vos both at Magazine Street and Dante Street locations of Ballin’s. Bracelet available for $75 and earrings are $165.
Cajun Caviar
Dark Garden Corsetry and Couture (504) 417-9751 DarkGarden.com
Visit Dark Garden for the finest in luxury corsets, loungewear, apparel and accoutrements. Ready-to-wear corsets start at $395; bespoke pieces from $1,750. Signature Risqué Sweetheart overbust corset in red silk and black mesh from $895.
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(504) 813-3515 CajunCaviar.com Who needs Cupid’s arrow when you can pop Cajun Caviar on Valentine’s Day? Cajun Caviar is a Louisiana seafood delicacy hand harvested from the Choupique fish of the fresh waters of the Atchafalaya Basin. Available at Martin Wine Cellar, Rouses, Whole Foods, Langenstein’s and online!
SPONSORED
FeBe
(504) 835-5250 FeBeClothing.com
Diamonds Direct
(504) 383-3900 DiamondsDirect.com/ValentinesDay
This Valentine’s Day, celebrate your loved one with a diamond bangle, offered in multiple colors and carat weights. Make it a Valentine’s Day to remember with a special gift from Diamonds Direct.
Get this Rebecca Minkoff “Love” crossbody bag chevron-quilted, metallic embossed leather with gunmetal hardware. Perfect for every woman in your life.
Party Cup Express
(504) 835-5465 PartyCupExpress.com Give your Valentine the royal treatment with the Gold Antique Crown collection from Party Cup Express, like this stainless bottle and stemless wine tumbler. Visit PartyCupExpress.com to view all items available in the collection.
Home Malone
(504) 324-8352 HomeMaloneNola.com
The perfect Valentine’s Day gifts are these handcrafted bronze pelican earrings made in Louisiana and available at Home Malone, $65.
Judy at the Rink (504) 891-7018 @JudyAtTheRink
Get these festive Valentine’s party red heart earrings with white agate available at Judy at the Rink. Perfect to wear on Valentine’s Day and every day!
67 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JANUARY 2020
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SPONSORED
PERLIS Clothing
New Orleans, (504) 895-8661 French Quarter, (504) 523-6681 Mandeville, (985) 674-1711 Baton Rouge, (225) 926-5909 Perlis.com
Featuring the iconic crawfish logo embroidery, the PERLIS Mardi Gras awning stripe sport shirt makes the perfect gift for your Valentine. He’ll look and feel festive all through the Carnival season.
Woodhouse Day Spa
(504) 584-4004 WoodhouseSpas.com
Relax this Valentine’s Day with Sonoma Lavender HeartShaped Sachet filled with lavender buds, available at The Woodhouse Day Spa, $16.
Sassy Royals Hats
(337) 540-3098 SassyRoyals.com
Treat your Valentine to something “SASSY!” Sassy Royals offers Fascinators, Gatsby Headpieces, Garden Party Hats and more! With over 20 years of experience, owner Anne G. Monlezun welcomes custom orders and looks forward to creating your dream “Sassy Royal” creation.
The Spa at Windsor Court
300 Gravier St., New Orleans (888) 441-0137 WindsorCourtHotel.com/spa
The Spa at Windsor Court is a destination to unplug and breathe. With an environment of positive energy, wellness and gratitude, The Spa offers a relaxing escape and line of premium products perfect for anyone on your gift list.
Valentine’s Dinner Reservations Arnaud’s
Briquette
Restaurant August
Antoine’s Restaurant
Ralph’s on the Park
The Grill Room in Windsor Court
(504) 523-5433 ArnaudsRestaurant.com (504) 581-4422 Antoines.com
Brennan’s
(504) 525-9711 BrennansNewOrleans.com
68 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
(504) 302-7496 Briquette-Nola.com
(504) 488-1000 RalphsOnThePark.com
Red Fish Grill
(504) 598-1200 RedFishGrill.com
(504) 299-9777 RestaurantAugust.com
(504) 522-1994 WindsorCourtHotel.com
PREMIER PROPERTIES
SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 69
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.
70 ST. CHARLES AVENUE FEBRUARY 2020
PREMIER
PROPERTIES
ELIZABETH B MCNULTY +1.504.908.0289 emcnulty@gardnerrealtors.com www.neworleansluxuryliving.coM
7934 Maple Street New Orleans, LA 70118
4518 CONSTANCE STREET Designer renovation meticulously maintains New Orleans Charm meets elegant design. Historic Uptown home in the ideal location, just 1 block off Magazine Street $695,000
2 bedrooms
2 bathrooms
bonus room
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N OS TA LG I A
The Doubloon Debut The beginnings of a valued and valuable collection By Seale Paterson
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(that took on a distinctly female figure when viewed sideways) on the other. Doubloons remained extremely popular into the 1980s, when so many were being thrown that supply overcame demand. Production has slowed in the decades since then, and doubloons, now a little more rare, are also a little more valued again. n
The doubloon collecting started almost as soon as the first Rex doubloons hit the street in 1960, with people yelling for them as parades passed in the following years. Guidebooks were written, collectors display cases were created and buying and trading began in earnest. At one point, there were 32 stores in New Orleans selling doubloons. Other people collected them for different reasons, such as fancy (but noisy) doubloon suits like this one, worn on Mardi Gras Day in the French Quarter in the late 1960s/early 1970s.
IMAGE PROVIDED COURTESY OF: THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS CO LLEC TION, THE FRANCK-BERTAC CI COLLECTION, 1994.94.2.1644
The day modern doubloons debuted in New Orleans the newspaper foresaw the future, telling readers to hang on to them as they were sure to be collectors’ items. It was March 1, 1960, and the Rex Organization had 80,000 to throw to paradegoers. Those first doubloons had that year’s King of Carnival, Gerald Andrus, on one side and the Rex motto, “Pro Bono Publico,” on the other. What they didn’t have was the date. Leaving them undated meant that they could be thrown the following year if they proved to be a bust with the crowds. They were not. Rex ordered over 100,000 doubloons the following year. They were sure to include the date, as well as the parade theme for the year. Each year, demand grew; in 1964, Rex ordered 200,000. The aluminum doubloons were light enough to be tossed from the floats without fear of injuring people. They were designed by H. Alvin Sharpe, who convinced Rex to use the doubloons as throws. As one of the few artisans who could both design and cut the dies for production, he created quite a profitable job for himself. By 1966, 35 Carnival organizations threw doubloons, each personalized for the krewes, with some krewes throwing varied colors and designs in the same parade. The craze for doubloons spread past Carnival, and by the mid-1960s, they were popping up everywhere. New businesses would create special doubloons to be given out on opening day, and a New Orleans Civic coin was sold as a souvenir at Woolworth’s, featuring the city coatof-arms on one side and festive Mardi Gras scene on the backside. The Pete Fountain doubloon debuted in 1966, the same year that a special bronze Bourbon Street Strip-Teaser medallion appeared. It came packaged with a paper that read: “A beautiful stripper is hiding on this coin; can you find her?” A gas lamp was pictured on one side, and a bearded man with a pipe