St. Charles Avenue Magazine June 2020 by Renaissance Publishing

JUNE 2020

VOL. 25 ISSUE 1 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 Jeremiah Michel

ADMINISTRATION

Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President/Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde 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.

CO N T E N T S

IN EVERY ISSUE 4-5 EDITORS’ NOTES 6 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Food Matters: Opportunites for you to make a difference 7 KIDS PLAY In-Cation Today: Travelling to Spain without stepping outside 8 WHAT’S HOT Father's Day

PHILANTHROPIC FUN

9 THE DISH Fun Times With Fin Fish: Recreating a restaurant meal at home

FEATURE 25 VACATION OASIS The perfect staycation is just a computer click or phone call away

10 MASKED REVELRY More than 600 masked revelers fêted the anticipated Carnival kickoff. 12 GOLDEN GRAND JETÉ The New Orleans Ballet Association’s 50th anniversary season gala leapt off the stage. 14 FESTIVE IN THE FRENCH QUARTER Members of the Preservation Resource Center’s President’s Circle enjoyed a reception within historic New Orleans architecture. 16 ACCESS & OPPORTUNITY Pro bono and community leaders were honored for embodying the mission of Louisiana Appleseed.

IN EVERY ISSUE 18 GOING OFF BOOK The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra performed at the literary festival inspired by the One Book One New Orleans selection. 20 PASSION FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS The NOCCA Institute hosted a music and art-filled night at House of Blues to support a scholarship fund investing in young artists. 22 COOKING FOR COMMUNITY Local Catholic high school students helped serve lunch to more than 800 guests at the "Chefs’ Charity for Children." 24 RACING FOR A CUP & A CURE The Leukemia Cup Regatta kickoff party educated the community on how the regatta brings us closer to beating cancer.

33 SHOP TALK Glennda Bach: Realtor, Latter & Blum, Inc. 33 SHOP TALK Trevor Colhoun: Executive Chairman and CEO, Trusted Provider Network 34 YOUNG BLOODS Andreas Hoffmann: Founder, Green Light New Orleans 35 SNAPSHOTS 40 NOSTALGIA Furniture Fame: Abraham Mintz’s rise from pauper to patronn

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

E D I TO R S' N OT E

We are so proud to feature The National W WII Museum on our cover this month, and what a celebration they’re having! Thanks to CEO Gordon “Nick” Mueller Ph.D. and current President Stephen Watson for being on our cover – socially distancing, of course. On June 6 they’re celebrating the museum’s 20th birthday and commemoration

of the 76th anniversary of D-Day with a full schedule of digital programming and a live conversation about its founding, growth, history and more. There will be a rebroadcast of the museum’s H-Hour ceremony and the Dr. Hal Baumgarten D-Day Commemoration ceremony. At 1 p.m. on June 6, there will be a conversation with Boysie Bollinger, one of the museum’s biggest champions, with Mueller and Watson, reminiscing about the museum’s grand opening and how it has become one of the premier cultural and educational institutions in the world. You don't want to miss this! For a full schedule

of events, please visit NationalW W2Museum.org. As we’re all staying at home, washing our hands and wearing our masks, there are a lot of companies trying to help others and make a difference. The Charleston Shoe Company, based in Charleston, South Carolina, is doing just that. This women’s shoe company is dedicated to making handmade, fashionable and comfortable shoes that are machine washable. In order to help healthcare workers they started “Buy One Give One!” While coordinating with Tulane and LCMC Health, they sent 100 pair to Tulane Lakeside

Hospital, as well as pairs to six different hospitals that are a part of LCMC. Please help them even further by purchasing a pair of shoes by visiting CharlestonShoeCo. com. Use the promo code BuyOneGiveOne and they’ll donate a pair of shoes for a health care worker. Please stay safe and support all of our restaurants and local retailers by picking up and buying gift cards. We are doing a great job in Louisiana and we’ll make it through this together!

Beverly Reese Church

Gordon "Nick" Mueller Ph.D. and Stephen Ambrose Ph.D. (center) are surrounded by luminaries, politicians and famous faces as they cut the ribbon to open The National D-Day Museum on June 6, 2000, which became The National WWII Museum in 2004. The museum is celebrating both its 20th birthday and the 76th anniversary of D-Day with a packed digital schedule. Learn more by visiting NationalWW2Museum.org.

Photo Courtesy of The National WWII Museum

4 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

E D I TO R S' N OT E

While I knew that my son was going to miss playgrounds, museums and especially the zoo and aquarium, I didn’t expect him to break into tears after seeing two kids about his age that he didn’t know playing down the street. He told me that he missed his friends and missed playing with them. Now, if you’ve ever spent much time around 2-yearolds you’ll know that they don’t really play together – they mostly play next to each other, and when asked which friends he squinched up his face and said, “All of them!” But I think that makes it all the sweeter. I have found that it isn’t my closest friends

that I miss seeing necessarily, it’s the ones that I often see once a month or less. The ones that when I think of, I think, “Oh, I’d like to see them; maybe I’ll call them tomorrow and see if we can grab a coffee or lunch!” And it has been these friends who when I text to say just that, have been the most enthusiastic with their replies. So, to you I say, we miss all of you! And if we all keep helping each other, we’ll have so many coffee and lunch dates that the calendar pages will turn even more quickly than they have seemed to of late. On that note, look to our What’s Hot for Father’s Day for six of the best ideas – all available locally – that he can enjoy now and later. And if you’re really starting to get that travelling itch, then it’s time to look to our feature, “Vacation Oasis” for the ideas you need for throwing the best staycation you’ve ever had. Stay say safe, stay well and stay kind as we recover,

JUNE *Calendar confirmed as of May 15. Please confirm directly with the nonprofit before making plans.

“GiveNOLA Day,” benefiting Greater New Orleans Foundation, 598-4663, GiveNola.org

11 “Man & Woman of the Year Grand Finale Gala,” benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 758-3218, mwoy.org/nola 22-28 “Online Magnolia Ball Silent Auction,” benefiting Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 539-9604, OgdenMuseum.org/magnoliaball 28 “Virtual Saints & All Things Louisiana Trivia Night,” benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, LLSTrivia.com

Morgan Packard Griffith

I want to let you all know about the CrescentCity.com meal assistance program. In partnership with The Mayor's Neighborhood Engagement Office, District C Councilmember Kristen Palmer, At Large Councilmember Jason Rogers Williams, Gate Gourmet Group, SBP, Auction House Market, World Central Kitchen, The Barmans Fund, USBG NOLA, Seven Three Distilling, Nola Tree Project, Betty’s Bar and Bistro and OZ New Orleans, the meal assistance program is providing over 28,000 meals per week to over 1,000 members of the LGBTQ+ service industry and gig economy communities affected by food insecurity issues as a result of COVID-19 through pickup and delivery six days per week. Sarah Manowitz and Tulane alumni Reed Wendorf launched the program on April 4 after seeing the overwhelming need in our targeted communities for access to adequate nutrition in the wake of sudden and unprecedented job losses due to the stay-at-home order. Learn more and leave a tip in their virtual jar today: CrescentCity.com! Photo by Jeff Strout

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Food Matters Opportunities for you to make a difference By Catherine Freeman

My husband’s birthday was March 16th, the last day before “normal” life in New Orleans basically ceased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After our large family dinner was canceled, I scrambled and found a restaurant where just the two of us could celebrate. That afternoon the announcement was made for all restaurants to close the following day, turning our dinner from just a birthday celebration into also a wistful temporary farewell to one of New Orleans’ most beloved institutions – our restaurants and the people who make them happen. With the ensuing disruption of our local hospitality industry, we’ve painfully watched the unemployment figures rise and restaurants struggle. But, New Orleanians are resilient and not surprisingly finding meaningful collaborations to offer support to this cherished constituency. While I normally highlight only one organization, it seemed more fitting this month to provide a resource of opportunities where you can make a difference. Although only food-centric causes are listed here, there are many other organizations working to support musicians, artists and small business owners who we must also rally behind in order keep our unique culture alive. We all have a role to play in the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, what’s yours?

6 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

ResQue food distribution

→

Chef’s Brigade (ChefsBrigadeNola.org) is a start-up organization founded by New Orleans food writers, chefs, restaurateurs and business people partnering with large corporations involved in the local food industry. Using existing fine dining and neighborhood restaurants as distribution kitchens, Chef’s Brigade bundles 10 local independent restaurants into a brigade and pairs them with a healthcare facility or NOPD District HQ. Crescent City (CrescentCity.com) is a weekly meal assistance program for the LGBTQ community, service industry and gig economy workers impacted by food security issues resulting from COVID-19. Additional resources are being added to their website daily, including lists of resources, open businesses and a virtual tipping portal called Tip Random. Feed the Front Line NOLA (FeedTheFrontLineNola.org) is working to feed hospital workers across New Orleans, employ out-of-work musicians/artists for deliveries and support locally owned restaurants. Donations help sustain New Orleans restaurants and show “food love” to hospital heroes.

Greater New Orleans Foundation (GNOF) Service and Hospitality Family Assistance Fund (gnof.org/benson) is an initiative to support low-income restaurant, hotel and bar employees who have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program, launched with resources from Mrs. Gayle Benson’s Community Assistance Fund at GNOF and the McIlhenny Company, maker of Tabasco® brand pepper sauce, accepts all size donations. HandsOn NOLA Serve Our Seniors (Volunteer. HandsOnNewOrleans.org) is recruiting volunteers to support the growing number of seniors who have signed up for their meal delivery program. Their need is for volunteers to package meals, drivers to make deliveries and others to make intake or follow up phone calls. Loaves of Love (899-3374, MahonyPoBoys.com) is a partnership of Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood, Leidenheimer Baking Co., Blue Plate Mayonnaise, Chisesi Brothers and local hospitality industry partners to help

feed front-line nurses, doctors, first responders and hospital workers. To participate, order a 24-count tray of Mahony’s po-boys and it will be matched with po-boys delivered to healthcare workers or first responders. Or, make a donation and sponsor a group in your honor. ResQue (ResQue.org) feeds first responders, medical personnel, military and volunteers after catastrophic events. Currently, they’re serving hospital and nursing home staffs across the Greater New Orleans area as well as providing free lunches every week to unemployed hospitality and service workers as well as musicians. United Way Hospitality Cares Pandemic Response Fund (UnitedWaySela.org) is actively recruiting donations, along with Louisiana Hospitality Foundation, from business and industry, foundations and the public. The fund will provide crisis grants to hospitality workers who are unable to afford basic financial needs during the COVID-19 outbreak. ✦ *Information correct as of April 1.

K I DS P L AY

In-cation Today! Travelling to Spain without stepping outside By Brittany Kennedy

While the school year may have come to an end, we missed a lot of the endings that come with it: field day, graduation and end of year picnics, to name a few. The result is that the arrival of summer vacation may not seem like much of an arrival, but instead more of the same: socially distanced walks, more screen time than we would like and rising temperatures. Since many of us have postponed vacations, our family has found a way to make our own vacation at home – less of a staycation and more of what my son has deemed an “in-cation.” The inspiration for this event came from a favorite book in my house. Maps of the World: An Illustrated Atlas of Adventure, Culture and Discovery by Enrico Lavagno and illustrator Sacco and Vallarino is an amazing resource to help kids across multiple ages visualize different countries and where they’re located. Each country is illustrated with various images that, on the next page, describe a famous citizen, site or cultural tradition. Our family chose Spain for our in-cation, and we decided to spend a week exploring the various regions and trying the different cuisines. My son went as far to set up a fake airplane in our living room out of folding chairs, and our passports and suitcases got pulled out for the trip. Over the course of our week, we explored via the internet the diverse culture and geography

of Spain, which was one of the hardest hit European countries by COVID-19. However, following the pandemic, most museums have been posting online exhibitions and virtual tours. We scoured YouTube and found a virtual tour of the Alhambra palace for both adults and kids, and we explored the online collections of both the Prado and Reina Sofia museums. Most major tourist destinations have informative websites for places to visit, and these virtual tours, not to mention beautiful Instagram posts, are only a Google away. While not exactly the same, also absent were tired, hot kids that don’t want to wait in line and complain loudly about having to do so. While we focused our “visits” on museums and major sites, we also made sure every evening represented a different region, and, once again, the internet proved a valuable resource. We made tapas one evening and then followed up by their northern counterpart, Basque pintxos, the next. We even sprung for a paella-making kit. An added bonus to this event was that, by being on in-cation, our son was actually far more adventurous that he normally would have been, and getting to choose recipes and get involved in the cooking (inspired by the map book) made him eager to get involved. I would be lying if I said our in-cation was like going to Spain or that it felt like a real vacation. However, after

View of Granada, Spain from Alhambra palace

almost two months at home, a shift in mindset was a muchneeded break from working and schooling in place. While we’re likely going back to the same existence before our virtual jaunt to Spain (which is true after a real vacation, honestly), our household needed a change of pace. We needed to see screens that did not have Zoom boxes, Google Classroom streams and more Netflix. We needed something “new,” and a book of maps of the big, wide world

was just what the doctor ordered while we stay at home. ✦

➺ Just the Facts:

Maps of the World: An Illustrated Atlas of Adventure, Culture and Discovery by Enrico Lavagno and illustrator Sacco and Vallarino ISBN: 031641770X Websites used for our in-cation included Spain.info/en and blog.headout.com/virtualtravel-to-spain

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM 7

W H AT ' S H OT

Father's Day

�

By Amy Gabriel Whether your pop is the life of the party or more the strong, silent type, show him you appreciate all he does and who he is with a gift that leaves him grinning.

1. With green grass lenses and tobacco hued frames, a pair of fighter-pilot style Carver sunglasses will give him instant cool cred. Curbside pick-up available. Billy Reid, 3927 Magazine St., 208-1200, BillyReid.com

� �

2. Cycling around the city is his cardio of choice, so set him up with a proper 16-piece tool kit for adjusting, tuning and minorrepairs on the quick. Shipping options available. National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 528-1944, extension 244, NationalWorldWar2Museum.org 3. He will be all set for a stylish dip in the deep end in a pair of leaf print Saxx Cannon Ball swim trunks. Shipping options and curbside pickup available. Bra Genie, 3054 N. Causeway Blvd., 644-2500, TheBraGenie.com

�

4. He loves to get dressed up so much he’ll make up an occasion to get dapper if he needs to, so he’ll appreciate a 100 percent silk mini Gulf oysters bow tie in splashy étoufée orange. Nola Couture, 3308 Magazine St., 319-5959, NolaCouture.com 5. The classic fit 100 percent cotton seersucker sport shirt with the iconic PERLIS crawfish logo above the pocket is a must have for every dad’s closet. Also available in pink-and-white stripes. PERLIS Clothing, 600 Decatur St., 523-6681, Perlis.com

� �

6. He loves to start his weekends with a cocktail and the Leisuremann’s Cocktail Mixes Bloody Mary blend lays the perfect base for a breakfast sip. Contactless porch drop and pick-up options available. Home Malone, 629 N. Carrollton Ave. 324-9852. HomeMaloneNola.com Photo

credit: Leisuremann’s Cocktail Mixes

8 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

THE DISH

Fun Times with Fin Fish at Home

PHOT0 BY MIKE LIRETTE

By Jyl Benson

In an effort to support his suffering purveyors Michael Nelson, Executive Chef at GW Fins, recently began offering a large selection of fresh seafood as well as many of the restaurant’s signature sides, sauces and desserts – all packaged to take home to prepare. Nelson took care to ensure that all of his offerings feature a majority of local ingredients in order to sustain area farmers, purveyors and businesses as we continue to grind through the fallout from this global pandemic. The majority of the fish Fins sells is spear fished by area fishermen, making this the absolute freshest fish anyone can get – unless they want to catch and clean it themselves, not something the tempts me one bit. I spent a recent weekend playing around with filet of Mangrove snapper, a muscular hunk of golden tilefish, massive diver scallops and gorgeous large Gulf shrimp. I had some spectacular butters and glazes with which to pair them. I learned a few things: 1.We don’t have to fear cooking finfish, as so many of us do. 2. If you start with an exemplary, fresh product you should get good results as long as you take care not to overcook it. 3.The secret to perfect scallops is a hard sear in a screaming hot cast iron pan with the faintest slick of neutral oil. 4. Chef Mike’s porcini butter could save absolutely any dish from tedium, ditto his smoked jalapeño glaze. 5. I don’t have the chef’s plating skills. While this was fun to play with at home, for the real deal I’m sticking with the pros. Here is what’s on

off take home from GW Fins: Seafood: Sheepshead 2, 7-ounce filets, $14; sea scallops U-10 6 each, $18; 16/20 Gulf shrimp $14 pound; softshell crab 2 each $18 (Wild Card, subject to change). Sides (all are one pint): Mashed sweet potatoes, $8; dirty rice, $8; collard greens, $8; shrimp Creole, $12. Soups and Salad (all are one pint): Seafood gumbo, $12; lobster bisque, $12; local arugula and strawberries with feta and balsamic vinaigrette, $8. Desserts (all are one pint): Salty Malty ice cream sundae and banana pudding, $7 each. Glazes (all are one cup): Korean, pineapple basil and jalapeño mango, $6 each. Butter Sauces (all are one cup): Barbeque, pesto, sundried tomato, porcini and Meyer lemon with capers, $6 each. And, GW Fins Signature Biscuit Mix is $5. In addition, Fins also resumed offering curbside pickup with an exciting new 3-course Fins Feast Menu with one selection per course starting at $39 per person. As of press (May 15), the menu currently on offer is as follows. Appetizers: Lobster dumplings, white fish mousseline, tomatoes and lobster butter; barbecue shrimp deglazed with Abita Amber and goat cheese grits; or crispy pork belly, compressed pineapple, ginger slaw (Wild Card, subject to change). Entrées: Parmesan crusted Sheepshead, jumbo lump crab and asparagus; wood grilled scallops with mushroom risotto and porcini

butter; fried softshell crab spoonbread with crawfish maque choux (Wild Card, subject to change); or Scalibut with Royal Red risotto and pea shoot butter. Desserts: Samoa with coconut sorbet, chocolate shell and coconut shortbread; chocolate bombe with raspberry coulis; or tiramisu with espresso Amaretto cake and Dutch cocoa powder (Wild Card, subject to change). Lastly, The Fresh Market in the Garden District (3338 St. Charles Ave.) is now selling pints of GW Fins insanely popular, utterly divine Salty Malty ice cream. ✦ Faubourg Fresh Market, 541 Bermuda St, 494-1715, FaubourgFreshMarlet.com GW Fins, 808 Bienville St., 581-3467, GWFins.com

➺ Try This:

I recently enjoyed a very fine socially distanced picnic in a verdant park in the Algiers Point neighborhood. We compiled a lovely meal with goods from the Faubourg Fresh Market, a well-appointed specialty grocery that serves the tight knit neighborhood with offerings from local purveyors. Look for a strong selections of artisan beers and wine and products from Bellegarde Bakery, St. James Cheese Company, French Truck Coffee, local produce and meats, sauces, and spices from Capt’n Jack’s Smokehouse. Artisan soaps, candles and essential oils are also offered. It is a super sweet spot.

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN 1

Masked Revelry More than 600 masked revelers fêted the anticipated Carnival kickoff. By Shelby Simon

“Bal Masqué,” the glitzy masquerade opener of Carnival season, which took place on January 18th this year, once again supported the Link Stryjewski Foundation’s mission to nourish, educate and empower New Orleans youth. James Beard Award-winning chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewsk brought together a star-studded lineup of nationally renowned celebrity chefs and mixologists to celebrate with rich food, lively music and carnival traditions. Participating chefs included Nina Compton, John Currence, Vishwesh Bhatt, Suzanne Goin, Paul Kahan, Mike Lata, Richard Reddington, Andrea Reusing, Maggie Scales, Chris Shepherd and Frank Stitt. Neal Bodenheimer and his team from Cure created specialty cocktails for the evening. Co-Founders of the Link Stryjewski Foundation, as well as Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski, delivered remarks to the revelers. The party featured live New Orleans brass, Creole Zydeco and Afro-Champeta from Colombia’s Caribbean coast, including the talent of Tribu Baharu from Colombia, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, The Roots of Music and DJ El Camino. Free-flowing champagne and accompanying caviar treated guests in the Champagne Henriot Lounge. A glitter bar by Elektra Cosmetics added extra sparkle to the evening. Event Design by CHL Linens and floral design by Nice Day enhanced the elegant ambiance in The Sugar Mill. Sponsors included Champagne Henriot, Hyatt Regency New Orleans, Buffalo Trace, Wheatley Vodka, Sazerac Co., NOLA Brewing Co. and The Times Picayune/New Orleans Advocate. ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Co-Founder Stephen Stryjewski and Janine Guzzo with Co-Founder Donald and Cameron Link 2. Stella de Lis, Gary Solomon Sr., Martha Solomon and Phathoms 3. Bill Hammack, Janice Parmalee and Fred Holley 4. Emery and Kristian Sonnier 5. Sam Carter, Leighann Smith and Rebecca Wilcomb 6. Keith Liederman and Heather Lolley

10 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

WHAT: “Bal Masqué,” benefiting Link Stryjewski Foundation WHEN: Saturday, January 18 WHERE: The Sugar Mill

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN 1

Golden Grand Jeté The New Orleans Ballet Association’s 50th anniversary season gala leapt off the stage. By Shelby Simon

The “50th Anniversary Season Evening of Stars,” benefiting the New Orleans Ballet Association dedicated two glamorous evenings to NOBA’s Golden Anniversary Season. On January 25, the Mahalia Jackson Theater of Performing Arts hosted 1,500 guests. The program began with a special performance by NOBA Center for Dance alumni and students in honor of Pamela and Warner Williams. NOBA worked with Elizabeth KoeppenKalosieh, Associate Artistic Director of Parsons Dance Company, and Reginald Toussaint to conceive the restaging of “Lagniappe,” which was commissioned by NOBA and first performed with Allen Toussaint and his orchestra in 2014. Honorary Gala Chairs were Governor John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Hutto Edwards. The extraordinary full performance included masterworks danced by some of the world’s preeminent artists, including international superstars Maria Kochetkova and Vitor Luiz and artists from National Ballet of Canada, The Joffrey Ballet, Boston Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. More than 375 patrons enjoyed a post-performance patron reception and then shifted to the transformed stage for a three-course dinner prepared by 1718 Catering by the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, music by Julio and César, a silent auction, a Lee Michaels shopping spree raffle and more. The Hyatt Regency New Orleans was the lead sponsor for the weekend while 1718 Catering by the Hyatt Regency New Orleans sponsored the catering. Other major sponsors include the Windsor Court Hotel, Pan American Life Insurance Group, Pamela and Warner Williams, Dottie Belletto & NOCCI, Lee Michaels, Charlotte Bollinger, Stephanie & Ryan Burks and Maloney Productions. The experience continued on February 11 with a spectacular grandseated Benefactor Dinner chaired by Charlotte Bollinger and Gregory Curtis and sponsored by the Windsor Court Hotel. NOBA was honored to have the Honorary Chairs Governor John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Hutto Edwards in attendance as well as Mayor LaToya Cantrell. ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Honorees Warner and Pam Williams, Benefactor Dinner Co-Chair Charlotte Bollinger and Tiffany Taffaro 2. Reginald Toussaint, NOBA Board Chair Dottie Belletto, Benefactor Dinner Co-Chair Gregory Curtis and BRAVO President Stephanie Burks 3. Teresa Guzzetta, National Ballet of Canada principal dancers Guillaume Côté and Heather Ogden, with Chad Berg 4. Lisa Baudot, Kerry Clayton, Jacquee Carvin and Stephen Sonnier 5. Cori Lewis, Cécile Gibson, Cynthia LeBreton and Alex Danna 6. Tiffa Boutté, Ashley Stagg, Debbie Buchler and Kathy Pastorek

12 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

WHAT: “50th Anniversary Evening of Stars,” benefiting Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization of the New Orleans Ballet Association WHEN: Saturday, January 25 WHERE: Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN 1

Festive in the French Quarter Members of the Preservation Resource Center’s President’s Circle enjoyed a reception within historic New Orleans architecture. By Shelby Simon

The Preservation Resource Center “President’s Circle Reception,” which took place on January 15, is just one of several exclusive events held in historic venues for the PRC’s top level of membership. The annual reception offers President’s Circle members a chance to hear directly from PRC Executive Director Danielle Del Sol and the PRC’s board president about the priorities and progress of the organization and historic preservation efforts in general in the city. The exquisite French Quarter home of Daniela and Elie Khoury served as the backdrop for this festive occasion celebrating historic New Orleans architecture. The Khourys’ home comprises two historic structures – a circa-1825 Creole cottage and a circa1855 Greek Revival townhouse – which the family renovated and connected with a stunning glass addition in their courtyard. Today, the glass enclosure provides an intriguing transition connecting the grandeur of the townhouse’s formal parlor, with its 14-foot ceilings, Corinthian columns and restored dental molding, to the more cozy, relaxed space of the Creole cottage. The Khoury family and Moet Chandon provided libations, and Catering by Laura Arrowood provided hors d’oeuvres. Approximately 100 patrons were in attendance. ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Jessie Haynes, Hosts Elie and Daniela Khoury and Carli Simpson 2. Jeanne Boughton, PRC Executive Director Danielle Del Sol and Marshall Hevron 3. Holly Sharp Snodgrass and Germaine Vorhoff 4. George and Lauren Brower with Sharon and Larry Schmidt 5. René J.L. Fransen and Eddie Bonin 6. Hal Williamson, Janie Blackmon and Dr. Dale LeBlanc

14 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

WHAT: “President’s Circle Reception,” benefiting the Preservation Resource Center WHEN: Friday, January 15 WHERE: French Quarter home of Daniela and Elie Khoury

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN

Access & Opportunity

Pro bono and community leaders were honored for embodying the mission of Louisiana Appleseed. By Shelby Simon

The 11th anniversary of the “Good Apple Gala” was the highest grossing event in the organization’s history. The 2020 event, which took place at the NOPSI Hotel on January 23, celebrated the good work of their pro bono network members who recognize the importance of solving systemic problems at their root cause. Community Honorees were John Hairston, President/ CEO of Hancock Whitney, for his support of wealth building strategies to end poverty, and David Kerstein, President of the Helis Foundation, who has provided incredible support to art communities. Master of Ceremonies Camille Whitworth, formerly of WGNO, presented glass apple awards to the honorees. John Hairston provided guests a special interview with Dr. Charles Teamer, whose life achievements have been archived in The History Makers, The Nation’s Largest African American Video Oral History Collection. Representative Patricia Smith was honored for increasing access to education by promoting access to nutritious meals for public school children in our state. Salyria Gumms of Southeast Louisiana Legal Services received an award for increasing access to opportunity in her work with Louisiana Appleseed to reach families with the Heir Property Project in coastal Louisiana. Also honored was Attorney at Law Jeannine A. Sullivan for her multiple years of dedication with Appleseed to increasing access to justice for survivors of domestic violence. Live music was provided by student jazz musicians from NOCCA. Flowers were provided by Adrian Florist. Design and printing was done by Pelican Events. The event provided guests with a lapel pin for Louisiana Appleseed.A glass set of hand-crafted vase and bowl was raffled as a door prize and was graciously donated by Young Aspirations Young Artists. Louisiana Appleseed Gala Co-Chairs and Board of Directors donated wine and bourbon for the “Everyone’s a Winner” rare wine and bourbon raffles. An afterparty commenced at Victory Bar on Baronne Street. Event sponsors at the Champions level included Entergy, Hancock Whitney and Helis Foundation. ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Honorees Jeannine A. Sullivan and Salyria Gumms 2. Honoree John Hairston, Honored Guest Dr. Charles Teamer and Honoree Rabbi David Kerstein 3. Sweet and Board Member Ben Dupuy 4. Board Members Don Abaunza, Celeste Coco-Ewing, Ashley Harrison and Allison Tiller 5. David Meyer and Board Member Brooke Tigchelaar 6. Marcus Brown, Christy Kane and Dan Falstad

16 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KENNY MARTINEZ

WHAT: “2020 Good Apple Gala,” benefiting Louisiana Appleseed WHEN: Saturday, January 23 WHERE: NOPSI Hotel

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN 1

Going Off Book The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra performed at the literary festival inspired by the One Book One New Orleans selection. By Shelby Simon

One Book One New Orleans and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra presented the world premiere of their first collaboration on November 23, 2019. NOJO Artistic Director Adonis Rose composed an original jazz suite based on OBONO’s 2019 selection, Vengeance by Zachary Lazar, which debuted as part of the Words & Music literary festival. Prior to the performance, attendees enjoyed a cocktail reception at the New Orleans Jazz Market. In keeping with OBONO’s mission to create free, high-quality public programming focused on the one book it selects each year for its citywide reading and literacy initiatives, this festival event was free and open to the public. OBONO Executive Director Megan Holt presented Vera Warren-Williams with the James-DeSalvo Award. Named for Words & Music’s founders, the annual award goes to an individual who has uplifted literacy in New Orleans. Major sponsors included the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, Pelican Publishing, the Peauxdunque Writers Alliance, The New Orleans Multicultural Tourism Network and Reese & Company Real Estate. Words & Music is produced by One Book One New Orleans, a nonprofit dedicated to community literacy and reading. All proceeds from the festival support OBONO’s mission to provide literacy resources and yearlong free public programming. ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Elizabeth Ahlquist and featured author Zachary Lazar 2. Alii Williams, OBONO Executive Director Megan Holt, Honoree Vera Warren-Williams and Garry Williams 3. Ashton M. Jackson, Antoinette de Alteriis and Solange Jazayeri

18 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

WHAT: “NOJO Performs Vengeance” at the Words & Music Literary Festival benefiting One Book One New Orleans WHEN: Saturday, November 23, 2019 WHERE: New Orleans Jazz Market

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN 1

Passion for Performing Arts The NOCCA Institute hosted a music and art-filled night at House of Blues to support a scholarship fund investing in young artists. By Shelby Simon

On December 20, 2019, The NOCCA Institute, The New Orleans Advocate and the Family of Daniel Price welcomed patrons to a night of art and music benefiting the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists. The scholarship fund honors the memory of NOCCA alumnus Daniel Price by investing in the outstanding visual arts and music students at NOCCA. A stunning Patron Party offered exclusive patrons back-toback performances by two New Orleans legends: Irma Thomas and John Boutte. The House of Blues offered a patron buffet on the concert hall floor, several bars and the setting for an artfilled silent auction, including artwork by Daniel Price Award recipients. Patrons were also welcomed to the Parish Room, where they were treated to an open bar, and the Foundation Room, where Jon Roniger offered a live performance. The “Home for the Holidays” concert continued late into the night, with performances by Trombone Shorty and Friends, the Preservation Hall Band, Water Seed, James Andrews, New Breed Brass Band, Rockin Dopsie, Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers and Alexis and the Samurai. Gralen Banks served as Emcee for the night. Auction items included priceless giclées of Daniel Price’s original artwork, as well as artwork from NOCCA Alumni Hillary Spriggins, Gunner Dongieux, Jeffie Lanter, Leonard Galmon and Emma Conroy, and local artists Ashley Longshore, Garland Robinette, Ayo Scott and Dana Diperna. ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Sarah Abbott with Kathy and Dr. Steve Price 2. Sally Shushan, Mary Adinolfi, Sasha Masakowski and Sally Perry 3. Suzie and Ted Bloch with Sarah Stickney Murphy

20 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

WHAT: “Home for the Holidays,” benefiting The NOCCA Institute WHEN: Friday, December 20, 2019 WHERE: House of Blues

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN

Cooking for Community

Local Catholic high school students helped serve lunch to more than 800 guests at the "Chefs’ Charity for Children." By Shelby Simon

Several of New Orleans’ best-known and most talented chefs came together to cook, teach, entertain and serve lunch at the 43rd annual “Chefs’ Charity for Children” on Monday, January 27 at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. The theme, “Angels of St. Michael’s School,” was depicted on CCC hand towels with artwork created by Upper School students. St. Michael students greeted guests, lead the audience in prayer and helped volunteers. Chefs taking part were: Andrea Apuzzo with Chef Emeritus David Woodward, John Folse, Justin Devillier, Nina Compton, Tory McPhail, Emeril Lagasse, Greg Reggio with Chef Emeritus Goffredo Fraccaro, Edgar “Dooky” Chase IV, Alon Shaya and The Wong Brothers, participating in their 42nd appearance at the event. A video, “Quotations from Romaine McCarthy, St. Michael Special School Principal,” highlighted student programming and the importance of community support. Tributes were made to Leah Chase. After the demonstrations, guests enjoyed a buffet lunch the dishes prepared by the chefs. A limited number of Patron Party tickets included reserved seating during the cooking demonstrations, a welcome mimosa, dining in a reserved seating area, a meet-and-greet with the chefs, a thank-you gift handcrafted by students, a special memento and a cookbook. Local merchants donated nearly $10,000 worth of prizes and gift cards for the Table of Treasures. Special raffle items included a St. Charles Avenue staycation, an LSU Championship afghan made by a student’s grandmother, a Hawaiian vacation and gift cards to participating chefs’ restaurants. Event Co-Chairs were Eileen Schulin and Anne Bailey-Theard. Emcee Eric Paulsen and chairman Dominic Massa of WWL-TV were in attendance as well as Romaine McCarthy, St. Michael Special School Principal. Platinum Sponsors were J. Edgar Monroe Foundation and James P. Raymond Foundation. The fundraiser supports St. Michael Special School’s commitment to keeping tuition affordable and providing scholarships to students in need ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Chef Tory McPhail with St. Michael’s students Matthew Tardiff, Kolijah Cotney and William Bennett 2. Chefs Andrea Apuzzo, Alon Shaya and Justin Devillier 3. St. Michael’s volunteer Justice Crockett with chefs Emeril Lagasse, Frank Wong and Tommy Wong

22 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF STROUT

WHAT: “Chefs’ Charity for Children,” benefiting St. Michael Special School WHEN: Monday, January 27 WHERE: Hilton New Orleans Riverside

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

PHILANTHROPIC FUN 1

Racing for a Cup & a Cure The Leukemia Cup Regatta kickoff party educated the community on how the regatta brings us closer to beating cancer. By Shelby Simon

The “Porsche of New Orleans Leukemia Cup Regatta Kickoff,” a free event held annually, rallies volunteers, donors and participants for the anticipated regatta through education of how the Leukemia Cup Regatta raises funds towards the mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The organization works to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Emillie Janzen was the 2020 Honored Hero. A Patron Party took place in the boardroom of Southern Yacht Club, where attendees were welcomed by Commodore Jim Wade, longtime Leukemia Cup Regatta volunteer. The Kickoff, held in the East Dining Room of Southern Yacht Club, featured tables covered in navy pintuck and navy-andwhite striped tablecloths with elegant bouquets of assorted white blooms on each table. Food was provided by Southern Yacht Club. Auction items included two framed and matted LSU National Championship front pages from newspapers donated by Avenue Art. Jenny Kottler served as Event Chair, with Katherine Smith as Auction Chair and Kett Cummins as Regatta Chair. Porche of New Orleans served as the Title Sponsor for the event. IBERIABANK, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana and Kenneth Keubel and Robert Diliberto served as Presenting Sponsors. The Leukemia Cup Regatta, which takes place in the fall, includes two days of racing, live music, a live and silent auction, food from local New Orleans restaurants and complimentary Gosling’s Rum. ✦

➺ Event at a Glance

1. Event Chair Jenny Kottler and SYC Commodore Richard Provensal 2. Jerry Cunningham, Honoree Emillie Janzen, Kelly Janzen and Carolyn Cunningham 3. General Sales Manager of Porche of New Orleans Jennifer Taylor and LCR Committee Member Jim Wade

24 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KENNY MARTINEZ

WHAT: “Porsche of New Orleans Leukemia Cup Regatta Kickoff,” benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society WHEN: Tuesday, January 21 WHERE: Southern Yacht Club

THE PERFECT STAYCATION IS JUST A COMPUTER CLICK OR PHONE CALL AWAY

By Sue Strachan

Savory cuisine, a luscious bed, museum exhibitions, shopping and yes, maybe even a workout. Sounds like a vacation, and it is – just because your summer travel plans have been canceled or altered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, doesn’t mean you can’t have that same relaxed, dreamy feel at home. Really! There are, of course, travel websites such as Kayak that can take you on virtual vacations to exotic locales, but sticking closer to home, there’s a lot to see and do. Plus, it’s June and the heavy, humid heat is here, and living the air-conditioning life is one of the city’s summer traditions.

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

Sleeping Easy

Museums Come to You

How long ago did you get your bed sheets? Exactly, you don’t remember. It is time to refresh that place where you spend hours of slumber, lounging and what not with linens reminiscent of that time you stayed at the Windsor Court Hotel. (More from them later!) At Sotre (SotreCollection.com), you can order bed linens by such brands as Essex, Sakuna and Sferra, which also makes the Sonno Notte Mattress, produced in the U.S.A. and available through the store. You don’t even have to order a bed or a set of sheets to make a difference – new pillowcases can add a muchneeded boost to the room’s look and your sleep. Want to know what else can make bed linens extraordinary? A spritz from Mahtilde M.’s Marquise sheet spray from Relish (RelishNewOrleans.com). The scent is a light, spicy and floral fragrance with a hint of vanilla, which can add a touch of Parisian elegance. If you like the scent – or your house has become musty – there’s a room spray, as well as scented liners and sachets for drawers, diffusers, candles and scented ceramics. Soaps are available, too. You may also want to “pack” a new set of pajamas for your staycation, and both Relish and Sotre offer styles that are fun or fancy. “It’s all about comfort,” said Relish Owner Beth Adams.

Every trip requires a few stops for a dose of culture. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s web site (OgdenMuseum.org) is a visual touchstone to what’s going on at the museum and its programs. Virtual video tours give an insider’s view of “Entwined: Ritual Wrapping and Binding in Contemporary Southern Art”; “Revelations: Recent Photography Acquisitions”; “What Music is Within: Black Abstraction from the Permanent Collection” and “Melvin Edwards: Crossroads,” presented by The Helis Foundation. Online gallery talks and curator Instagram takeovers (@OgdenMuseum) add a better understanding of the art and artists. Shopping is always a part of the vacation experience, and the Ogden Museum Store sells an assortment of art and craft by Southern artists. Perhaps some semi-precious stone earrings from the New Orleans-based M.A.D. Bohemian fit the bill? The Historic New Orleans Collection’s website (HNOC.org) features “History from Home”: a virtual guide to the museums’ exhibitions and the extensive holdings of items documenting New Orleans and Louisiana history. The landing page has a great introduction with a video highlighting landmarks and moments from different eras with a New Orleans jazz soundtrack. You can then choose from three categories: Stories, Videos, Podcasts and More; Activities and Information for Families; and Tools for Researchers. (I guarantee that looking up your family’s history or the house where you live can feel like going down a fascinating rabbit hole!) As part of “History from Home,” THNOC adapted several exhibitions, including some recent shows: A 60-degree view of the 2019 installation, “New Orleans Medley: Sounds of the City,” explores the myriad influences contributing to New Orleans’ musical history. When the museum re-opens, it will showcase photographs from the book, Cajun Document: Acadiana 1973-1974 by Charles H. Traub and Douglas Baz.

OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART’S “WHAT MUSIC IS WITHIN”

WINDSOR COURT’S TEA

Pinkies Up, it’s Teatime OK, so we probably gained some “quarantine weight,” but that doesn’t mean you have to eat carrots and yogurt on this staycation! What you may not know is that there are two types of tea times: afternoon tea is around 4 p.m. and treats include teas such as Earl Grey and herbal with tea sandwiches, scones and cake. High tea is later and is a heavier meal with fish and meat dishes, baked goods and rich foods. Joey Worley, the Windsor Court Hotel’s (WindsorCourtHotel.com) director of food and beverage

put together an afternoon tea based on the hotel’s famed tea that you can do at home and can include children: Tea: At least two choices of tea for any event is recommended, with the three listed here offering a nice variety: fruit forward, green and a black tea more indicative of the English style. Peach Nectar Rooibos is a blend of cured peach spices with a natural sweetness. This is a delicious warmer weather tea that’s good for the kids because it’s caffeine free. By Harney and Sons’ (Harney.com). Citron Green has a hint of orange and citrus, and is a mellow green tea with

caffeine. Regal English Breakfast is a robust, highly caffeinated tea that is often taken with milk and a little honey (RareTeaCellar.com). Wine: For bubbles, try either Charles Roux or Piper Heidseick, but any sparkling wine will work. Sandwiches: Curry chicken salad and egg salad (possibly topped with a drizzle of truffle oil) on country bread rounds. Double the portions and have extra for lunch the next day. Purchase from your favorite grocery store or make with a personal recipe. PB&J for the kiddos: cut crusts off and cut into small triangles and garnish with a single blueberry. Sweets: Strawberry scones with honey-lemon curd and chocolate whipped cream. Macarons – Whole Foods on Magazine Street Uptown has a great selection. “Extras:” Put on some music to liven up the mood; the hotel recommends Robin Barnes, the headliner at its Polo Club Lounge. Don a comfortable outfit, or dress up and finish your ensemble with a fascinator by Ouiser and Clairee Millinery, available on Instagram @ouiserandclaireemillinery. A good place to get that egg salad for the afternoon tea, as well as some of the other fixings, is at Langenstein’s (Langensteins.com). The grocery store and caterer is New Orleanians’ go-to spot for every day and any party – have you ever been to a New Orleans soirée that didn’t have Le Popeye Dip, the famous spinach, herbs and sour cream concoction? Call to order, then pick up that and any other items you may need. For desserts, try La Boulangerie (LaBoulangerieNola.com), which offers a delectable tea time or dessert assortment, including decadent cream puffs. For the perfect cocktail or wine to have with your tea, contact Prytania Wine & Spirits (Langensteins.com/prytania-wine-spirits), which can deliver. For a different flavors, bring home Ralph’s on the Park (RalphsOnThePark.com) globally inspired Curbside To-Go Family Meals, available Wednesdays through Sundays. Turtle soup, City Park salad, crawfish pasta and French chocolate trifle are all on the menu. You can also order bottles of red or white wine and champagne. SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM

Dressed for comfort

Garden Party + Cooking

Yoga pants, shorts and T-shirts have become the home office attire of choice, unless there’s a Zoom meeting. But comfort doesn’t have always have to be whatever you just pulled out of the dresser drawer. Ballin’s New Orleans Knitwear (NewOrleansKnitwear.com) is a natural combination of style, function and fashion. Designed inhouse, the line – made of cotton – is comfort-driven and made for the New Orleans climate. Separates and dresses in multiple colors make it easy to mix and match. The shoe of the moment – it’s the store’s best-selling shoe – are Ilse Jacobsen’s flats, called “The Perfect Summer Shoe” online by Ballin’s. It is easy to see why. It is lightweight, with the upper shoe made of a laser-cut pattern of recycled microfiber, which makes shoe breathable and the sole made of natural rubber. It is so popular that Ballin’s says that customers often come back to buy another pair, or two.

If you missed going to New Orleans City Park’s Botanical Garden during its peak spring season, no worries as the park will bring it to you. Botanical Garden Director Paul Soniat gives a virtual tour of the garden and all of its beauty, while he serenades you on piano with his original song, “My Garden.” At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the garden’s Kitchen in the Garden started a Chef’s Cooking Series on its Facebook page (Facebook.com/ NewOrleansBotanicalGarden/videos). The first segment featured Chef Frank Brigtsen of Brigtsen’s Restaurant, who cooked up some Thai vegetable curry at home. The idea behind the series, which will also feature video segments from Chef John Currence (City Grocery, Oxford, Miss.) and Chef Ryan Prewitt (Pêche), is that it is a way to encourage people to donate to the Hospitality Cares Pandemic Response Fund (UnitedWaySela.org/hospitality-cares-pandemic-response-fund-0).

28 ST. CHARLES AVENUE JUNE 2020

BELOW: RALPH’S ON THE PARK’S CITY PARK SALAD OPPOSING PAGE LEFT: PRYTANIA WINE & SPIRITS FAR RIGHT: LANGENSTEINS’S HYE ROLLERS

Staying Fit Staying fit at home can be challenging, but Romney Studios (RomneyStudios.com), makes it easy with 30- or 60-minute classes online. Among the classes are Pilates and Pulse. Try them out with a free sevenday trial, then pay only $19.99 a month for a subscription if you like it. The summer of staycation is here – and with the stress of the past few months let’s take time to remember that sometimes there’s no place like home.

SAINTCHARLESAVENUE.COM