St. Charles Avenue May 2017 by Renaissance Publishing

MAY 2017

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co n t e n t s

Features

Whether you’re looking for classic dishes or new spins highlighting local, seasonal ingredients, find (or rediscover) your favorite local bunch starting on pg. 46.

Over-Easy Like Sunday Morning

11 New Orleans brunches

Registry of Charitable Events

By Kelcy Wilburn photos by Cheryl Gerber

May-August 2017 Compiled by Morgan Packard Griffith

In the Land of Hospitality

Summer Skin

20+ tips for hosting a gala at home

Our guide to your best look ever

by Mirella Cameran photos by Elizabeth Dondis

by Mirella Cameran photos by Cheryl Gerber

On the Cover New Orleans Center for Creative Arts’ “Art & Soul Gala,” Chaired by Ben and Jeanette Jaffe and Laura and John Sillars will take place Saturday, May 13. Starting at 6:30 p.m. with a Patron Party, the Gala follows at 8 and the Twilight Party (for those 35 and under) at 9, all at NOCCA’s Chevron

Forum (2831 Chartres St.). This year’s event, NOCCA’s largest each year, will feature food from NOCCA’s Culinary Arts students as well as some of New Orleans’ favorite restaurants – including NOCCA’s own Press Street Station. Guests will dance the night away to the

music of the Preservation Hall All-Stars Sweet Crude and Cha Wa, and both silent and live auctions will feature artwork, vacation packages and more. Purchase your tickets today by calling 940-2851 and learn more at NOCCA.com.

Photographed by Jeffery Strout Special thanks to NOCCA and to Anna Whitlow for her invaluable assistance.

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co n t e n t s

In Every Issue

10 & 12 Editors’ Notes

Vintage Wedding

Making a difference

KID smART: Education through imagination 16

Philanthropic Fun

Kids Play

The French Library: Joie de vivre and more 18 What’s Hot

On the Menu

Fish Face: Tsunami’s Sushi Chef Jimmy Mano shares their Snapper Crudo 22 The Dish

Setting the Tone: At once fresh and familiar

Mysterious Masquerade Celebrity chefs and renowned musicians celebrated Creole Carnival at “Bal Masque.”. 28 Fête On the Field “Lark in the Park” brought a crowd to Tad Gormley Stadium to celebrate its restoration. 30 Great Grapes The historic Hermann-Grima House opened its doors for wine tasting in the courtyard. 32 Cooking for Children “Chefs’ Charity for Children” celebrated its 40th anniversary with star-studded chefs.. 34

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68 With This Ring

Lohmann – Barone Bursts of Bouquets “Art In Bloom” presented by IberiaBank benefited NOMA’s educational exhibitions. 26

Mother’s Day 20

Linda Jane Knight Weds Robert Bruce Worley June 20, 1957

Radiant In Red The American Heart Association encouraged local women to make heart health a top priority. 36 Access Through Apples Louisiana Appleseed honored seven stand-out community members. 38 Black-Tie Birthday The Contemporary Arts Center celebrated its 40th Anniversary Season. 40

70 Young Bloods

Daniel Johnson: Founder, Greeman Dan 72 Student Activist

Julia Michelle Reggio: St. Martin’s Episcopal School 74 Shop Talk

Aron and Misti Medders: Owners, Bayou Throws 75 Shop Talk

More Than Cookies The Girls Scouts Louisiana East hosted a cookie-filled gala to support development programs. 42

Katie Winters Shlosman & Shawn Haddad: Owners, Oak New Orleans

Community Connection Bastion raised funds to build a community of support for returning warriors and their families. 44

76 Snapshots

OnStage calendar

88 Nostalgia

Classically Celluloid: The Coliseum Theater

MAY 2017 Vol. 21 Issue 12 Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Griffith Art Director Ali Sullivan contributing editor Mirella Cameran Beauty Columnist Lorin Gaudin Society Columnist Catherine Freeman Food & Dining Columnist Jyl Benson Associate Editor Melanie Warner Spencer web Editor Kelly Massicot Event Photo Coordinator Jeff Strout

Advertising vice president of sales Colleen Monaghan

(504) 830-7215, Colleen@MyNewOrleans.com sales manager Brittany Brady

(504) 830-7248, Brittany@MyNewOrleans.com senior Account Executive Samantha Blanchard (504) 830-7226, Samantha@myneworleans.com

Marketing DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS

Cheryl Lemoine event coordinator Whitney Weathers digital media associate Mallary Matherne For event information call (504) 830-7264

Production production designers Demi Schaffer, Molly Tullier, Monique Di Pietro traffic COORDINATOR Terra Durio

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 Subscription manager Brittanie Bryant 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, © 2017 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.

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m e e t o u r sa le s t e a m

Colleen Monaghan

Vice President of Sales 830-7215 Colleen@myneworleans.com

Brittany Brady

Sales Manager 830-7248 Brittany@myneworleans.com

Samantha Blanchard

Senior Account Executive 830-7226 Samantha@myneworleanscom

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b e v ' s n ot e

The New Orleans Center for Creative Arts is an icon in our city – and for good reason! It was founded in 1973 to offer intensive art instruction for high school students in Classical Music, Creative Writing, Culinary Arts, Dance, Jazz, Media Arts, Musical Theatre, Theatre Design, Vocal Music, Visual Arts and other academic areas, and NOCCA is now known all over the world. We are so proud to feature their largest fundraiser, “Art & Soul” on our May cover. This year “Art & Soul” will be held on Saturday, May 13, at NOCCA’s Chevron Forum (2831 Chartres St.) with a Patron Party starting at 6:30 p.m., the Gala at 8 and the Twilight Party (for those 35 and under) at 9. Thanks to Chairs Ben and Jeanette Jaffe and Laura and John Sillars, who promise fantastic food from NOCCA’s Culinary Arts students as well as some of New Orleans’ best restaurants. Guests will enjoy great music from The Preservation Hall All-Stars, Sweet Crude and Cha Wa, and both silent and live auctions featuring artwork, vacation packages and more! Purchase your tickets today by calling 940-2851. Mother’s Day is almost here and What’s Hot will give you great ideas for the moms and mothers-to-be in your life, including jewelry, clutches, shoes and more. Mother’s Day is always a great day to brunch with the whole family; look to our piece featuring 11 favorite places to treat Mom to a special meal to find your perfect spot. Our guide to your best summer skin will give you tips and introduce you to new technologies from local experts. Everyone wants to keep up with the latest so that we can look as good as possible for all of the fundraisers we’ll attend, so read on! Be sure to check out our Registry of Charitable Events: May-August 2017. We are “the place” to make sure that when you’re planning a new fundraiser, your date isn’t full of other nonprofit events; you won’t want to be just one of five, you want to stand out! If you don’t see your event there, or you want to get a start on planning your fall event, submit it to: MyNewOrleans.com/CharitablEvent. Speaking of fabulous galas, there are so many in New Orleanians’ private homes – maybe yours is next. Look to our feature on hosting a gala at home to get tips from local experts and advice from those in the know! But if you don’t want to throw your event in your home, Parlor at the Pontchartrain is a newly renovated event space at the Pontchartrain Hotel (2031 St. Charles Ave.), and is open now! Exposed brick, toile accent walls and gorgeous chandeliers give it an Old New Orleans feel. Visit ThePontchartrainHotel.com/space/the-parlor-at-the-pontchartrain or call 323-1400 to learn more. Enjoy the start to your summer,

Beverly Reese Church

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“Brass N Glass,” Friday, May 19, 6-9 p.m., is YAYA’s annual spring party celebrating its public access glass studio. This free event at the YAYA Arts Center in Central City (3322 LaSalle St.) includes live music, glassblowing demonstrations and a showcase of artwork created by youth artists. Proceeds from all sales of artwork and glassware directly support YAYA’s free afterschool programs for creative young people across New Orleans. Learn more by visiting YAYAInc.com.

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m o rga n ' s n ot e

It is only May but I’m already feeling the heat! Maybe that’s because I’m seven months pregnant, or because Jazz Fest is just over, or because so many nonprofits are having events before the real swelter of summer sets in. On that note, look to our Registry of Charitable Events: May-August 207 to see what you need to have on your calendar. If you don’t see your event listed, please shoot me an email (Morgan@MyNewOrleans.com) and fill out our online events form as soon as possible: MyNewOrleans.com/CharitableEvent! If you have an event coming up this fall, and aren’t sure that Avenue has it on our radar, fill out the form now; you can always send me changes later. This issue is jam-packed with wonderful information, including our What’s Hot for Mother’s Day and its tie-in – a feature on 11 brunches around town – and our guide to your best summer skin ever, and even 20-plus tips on how to host a gala at home from those in the know! In addition, we have our continuously creative columnists serving up information on local nonprofits, restaurants, conversations with shop owners and so much more. And, of course, there’s your event coverage and Snapshots – because it’s always so much fun to read about these events and see who Chaired and attended. Thank you for reading Avenue and for supporting these incredible institutions, without which this magazine wouldn’t be here and our city would be so much poorer! Have a happy and safe summer – and don’t forget your sunscreen!

Morgan Packard Griffith

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m aki n g a d i ff e r e n c e

KID smART Education through imagination By Catherine Freeman

Our family recently moved from the home where we raised our children for the past 18 years. Soon after beginning packing we realized we had accumulated many unnecessary items. Paring down piles to donate, sell or pitch was easy until we discovered a group of 10 large plastic boxes full of our children’s artwork. My practical husband was flabbergasted I intended to have movers lug boxes of finger paintings, pottery and random art to our new home, but I was insistent. Before the boxes were loaded, our family enjoyed reminiscing about early school days while sorting through the boxes – each piece representing an array of educational themes and memories. I would bet that a lot of parents have their own collection of school art stashed somewhere that’s equally meaningful, but sadly there are far too many New Orleans children who aren’t provided opportunities to experience the enriching world of the arts. Recent studies show access to the arts reduces – and in some cases eliminates – the achievement gap between impoverished students and their more advantaged peers. This deficiency in equal access for low-income children to arts programming prompted two local artists, Campbell Hutchinson and Allison Stewart, to develop an arts-based learning nonprofit they named KID smART. What began in 1999 with a weekly Saturday afternoon program led by a few friends has exploded into a multi-faceted program now reaching 3,500 Kindergarten through eighth grade students annually. The current offerings include designated Creative Schools, after-school enrichment programs, professional development and free arts-based curriculums available to teachers anywhere. One of the most innovative components of KID smART is the Creative School. Schools interested in partnering with KID

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smART as a Creative School commit to changing the way they teach by blending math, science, social studies and English with different art forms making classrooms more joyful and effective places to learn. KID smART arts educators collaborate with teachers 20 hours a week to co-plan and co-teach lessons that build creativity and deeper understanding. “When traditional instruction isn’t working, KID smART is an alternative method to physicalize the work to offer different pathways in accessing knowledge and success”, says Executive Director Echo Olander. Participating schools are not only invested with their teaching staff but also contribute financially by fundraising one-third of the costs not provided by KID smART. With 12 Creative Schools currently in New Orleans, the trend is exciting and the results show students are growing in creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration. Imagine a biology student learning the parts of a plant so that she can draw them with water color paints, or the English student improvising a book character using creative expression, or the physics students

collaborating as a team to represent reflecting sound waves. With these unique teaching techniques, it isn’t surprising KID smART is making a positive impact in our community. During the 2015-’16 school year, 98 percent of teachers reported students deepened learning in both the targeted curriculum area and the art form and 94 percent of students reported their creativity and imagination increased as a result of KID smART. Board member Kate Werner adds, “KID smART teachers engage children in such a way they don’t even realize they’re absorbing math facts, parts of speech, or the water cycle – strategies that continue to build student success.” The KID smART mission to engage children in dynamic, creative and rigorous learning through the arts is providing access to creativity that will provide benefits well beyond the classroom. n

A little more … Consider a donation to KID smART on Give NOLA Day, May 2, through GiveNola.org/ks and support “Cocktails for KID smART” on Wednesday, October 18 at the home of Virginia and John Rowan. Learn more and buy your tickets today at KIDsmART.org.

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ki d s pl ay

The French Library Joie de vivre & more By CeCe Colhoun

In our home, we’ve managed to make reading books before bed a treat. My boys love this special time that we share, as we do as their parents. Our imaginations as much as theirs are filled to the brim, accompanied with magnificent illustrations. Katrina Greer, owner of The French Library is just as aware of this phenomenon and has professed that, “As a young girl I basked in the wonders of books and dreamt of becoming a librarian. Years later, the dream manifested in the form of The French Library.” The French Library, in its beckoning shade of deep blue, sits nestled on a block of Magazine Street that certainly must feel proud to have it. The sophisticated book shop and café is geared towards children, but much like the pages of those carefully illustrated stories adults also lose themselves in wonder once inside. Every nook and cranny is curated so that reading, nibbling, sipping and relaxing the mind become the center of focus. This is seemingly perfectly engineered to evoke the French joie de vivre, and it doesn’t disappoint. Even the staunchest Francophiles can find solace in the library, which hosts many gatherings such as birthday parties, tea parties, art classes and story times. These classes, which also include yoga and mindfulness meditation, are all taught in French. The French Consulate has held meetings there, and the library continues to add special events such as etiquette classes to the roster. As the number of French immersion schools grow in New Orleans, many homes are finding that they have children becoming fluent while they, the parents, are not. This makes the already daunting task of aiding with homework next to impossible. The French Library provides after school help to children with their French-oriented homework, and in fact recently had a client who brought his child in to complete their winter break home studies while the 16 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

father sat and enjoyed a cup of coffee and a macaroon from the café. The staff is equipped to handle this kind of thing and encourages it. “We welcome children and adults who want to snuggle up with a book on our couch-swing or enjoy a cup of French Truck coffee in our café,” says Greer. “Our aim is to provide a magical space where people can expand their worlds and cultivate their original gifts. While doing so, still preserving Louisiana’s French roots and tradition.” The French Library continues to curate their plethora of French books, and in addition are growing English books and periodicals of French influence. The French Library has beautiful options that only enhance the joy of bedtime reading and make the experience with our children that much more special.

With its enticing treats and riveting ambience, The French Library certainly summons indoors with its profound curb appeal, and as soon as you pass through there’s a certain, what do they say ... Je ne sais quoi. n

Just the Facts: Events at The French Library range from birthday parties to baby showers, and start at $375. All classes, such as étude and ukulele are $5 unless otherwise stated. All of this information is in their calendar and can be found online at TheFrenchLibrary.com. Hours of operation: Sundays 12-5 p.m.; MondaysSaturdays 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The French Library: 3811 Magazine St., 267-3707; Twitter: @french_library; Instagram: @french_ library; Facebook: The French Library

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wh at ' s h ot

Mother’s Day By Amy Gabriel

Mothers, wives, sisters, aunts and friends – our most beloved women mentors come in many categories, and we love them for their grace, wit, style, wisdom and humor. Celebrate the many gifts they bestow upon you with a token of love that speaks from the heart.

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2. Her lobes will look especially lovely in a pair of 14 karat white gold and diamond flower-inspired

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earrings. Adler’s, 722 Canal St., 523-5292; 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 523.5292, AdlersJewelry.com 3. Let her know she holds the key to your heart with a fleur de knot key necklace. Cristy’s Collection, Adler’s, 722 Canal St., 523-5292; 3301 Veterans

Blvd., 523-5292; Detour Nola, 3363 Severn Ave., 862-6652; CristyCali.com 4. Taking note of life’s little reminders will be a treat on these on-trend metallic jotter pads. Scriptura, 5423 Magazine St., 8971555, Scriptura.com

5. For a scent-sational gift, treat her to a fragrant and uplifting vetiver, citrus and jasmine candle from Smoke. Smoke, Defend New Orleans, 1101 First St., 941-7010; Swan River Yoga, 2940 Canal St., 301-3134; Raw Republic, 4528 Magazine St., 324-8234; SmokePerfume-Myshopify.com

Select photos by Cheryl Gerber

1. Keep her prompt and on-trend in a marble grey La Roche Petite watch with a white marble dial. Monomin, 2104 Magazine St., 827-1269, Monomin.com

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6. She will consider this Frank & Eileen blouse in soft pink and white stripes the perfect goto button down for a spring picnic. FeBe, 474 Metairie Road, 835-5250, FeBeClothing.com 7. Her friends will have wrist envy thanks to her rose gold diamond bangle with .45 total carat weight in round diamonds. Boudreaux’s, 701 Metairie Road, 831-2602; 4550 Highway 22, (985) 626-1666, BoudreauxsJewelers.com 8. A silver cotton lurex clutch makes for the perfect little accessory, day or night. Elizabeth’s, 204 Metairie Road, 833-3717

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9. A sophisticated slip-on like this Italian-made, soft leather slide from Cordani, available in rose gold or silver, will have her stepping stylishly. Ballin’s, LTD, 721 Dante St., 866-4367; 2917 Magazine St., 891-4502; 806 E. Boston St., Covington, (985) 892-0025, BallinsLTD.com

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on the menu

Fish Face Tsunamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sushi Chef Jimmy Mano shares their Snapper Crudo

Snapper Crudo Sashimi

6 ounces red snapper Wakame Pesto

3 2 2 1 2

ounces wakame (seaweed) Tablespoons soy sauce Tablespoons olive oil teaspoon ginger, minced teaspoons lemon juice

Directions SASHIMI Cut fish into sashimi. Wakame Pesto Combine ingredients in a blender until desired texture is reached. Plating Arrange sashimi in aesthetic manner and top with pesto. Garnish with fried red onion and radish to your liking.

Tsunami Pan American Life Center 601 Poydras St., Suite B 608-3474 ServingSushi.com

photos by JEF FERY JOHN STON

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the dish

Setting the Tone

Rosedale’s chopped salad and grit bowl

At once fresh and familiar By Jyl Benson

For New Orleanians of a

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photo by sara essex bradley

certain age, weekend meals shared with our families at the many casual West End seafood joints and daily lunch plate specials nabbed from Mom-and-Pop neighborhood restaurants were the norm. Opened last fall, Susan Spicer’s Rosedale feels at once fresh and new, familiar and comforting. Though the only “body” of water within walking distance of Rosedale is a drainage ditch, I still felt the tug of memories of the old Katrinavanquished Sidmar’s, which was nestled on a narrow strip of land between Lake Pontchartrain and the 17th Street Canal. The tone for the experience is set before you even open the door at Rosedale. The exterior of the small wooden clapboard building, a former police station, remains deliberately devoid of a fresh coat of paint, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the rest of the Navarre neighborhood. Inside, there’s a large bar, rustic décor and the waiter’s station is situated within one of the former jail’s cells; the bars that once restrained the unruly are still present on the window. Though Spicer owns Rosedale and brings her star power to the game, it’s fitting that she appointed her long-time secondin-command at Bayona, Brett “Shaggy” Duffee, to head up

the kitchen. This is the kind of unpretentious place where a guy named Shaggy seems like just the right call for the kitchen. The menu successfully merges familiar New Orleans neighborhood restaurant standards with global influences. For starters, eggplant Caponata is served with croutons and creamy Burratta; the chopped salad is finished with a velvety house-made Pecorino dressing; and bowls of Cheddar-laden stone-ground grits are offered with an array of toppings including smothered greens, broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, barbecued shrimp, cochon de lait and short rib debris. Entrées include a play on the classic muffuletta with seared cold-smoked tuna; and the ever-comforting spaghetti and meatballs is leavened with the use of lamb, ricotta and spicy Calabrian breadcrumbs. Remember those little cherrytopped single-serving pineapple upside down cakes and rum cakes that were always in the McKenzie’s pastry case? There is a rendition of that here, too only the pineapple is kissed with an exotic touch of mango. Across town, JoAnn Clevenger, James Beard Award Nominee for Outstanding Restaurateur maintains the standards for excellence she first established when she opened Upperline in 1987. The restaurant’s signature dishes The Chubby Biscuit (917) 302-4631 ChubbyBiscuit.com Rosedale 801 Rosedale Drive 309-9595 RosedaleRestaurant.com Upperline 1413 Upperline St. 891-9822 Upperline.com

Try This: As festival season plunges on and house guests continue their descent, feeding them can become a challenge. Consider The Chubby Biscuit from chef Shelley Everett. It is an entire grab-and-go meal, in a biscuit. The Tremé-based Southern chef behind Gourmet Angel Catering learned her biscuit techniques from her grandmothers and evolved them to offer both sweet and savory, super-sized selections, including The Crescent City (crawfish and Andouille sausage), Muffuletta, The Gotham (tomato, basil, Parmesan and truffle oil), Bacon Cheddar, The Frenchmen (apple-wood smoked bacon, Stilton and pears), Chubby Hubby (chocolate, caramel and bacon), The Italiano (salami and Gorgonzola), Smokey n’ Bandit (smoked salmon and egg), and The James Bond (pulled pork with chocolate jerk sauce). Chubby Biscuits are available at the French Market on the Esplanade side, through pop-ups around town (check Facebook) or you can have an order delivered to your door.

have become local standards and are frequently imitated, most notably the fried green tomatoes with large, plump Gulf shrimp coated in a bracing remoulade sauce. Throughout the year, to keep things fresh and interesting, Clevenger offers several special dinners and celebrations. She put garlic on a pedestal long before others embraced the “stinking rose.” Originally a creative whim, Upperline’s Garlic Festival has been celebrated every summer since 1987. It will kick off once again beginning in June and will run through the end of August. For those less adventurous (or simply on a date and not seeking the odious charms of Nature’s Chaperone), Upperline’s regular menu will remain on offer during the festival. n

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Bursts of Bouquets

“Art in Bloom” presented by IberiaBank benefited NOMA’s educational exhibitions. By Shelby Simon

Nearly 900 attended the “Art in Bloom Patron and Preview Parties" presented by IberiaBank, which took place at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Quincy Crawford of the NOMA Volunteer Committee and Sarah Feirn of the Garden Study Club of New Orleans served as Event Chairs. The Patron Party featured passed hors d’oeuvres from Galatoire’s and champagne, accompanied by music performed by Joel Simon and the Trinity Honor Choir. The Preview Party followed with cuisine and libations from more than 30 New Orleans restaurants. There was also a silent auction, featuring a one-of-a-kind oil painting by Hunt Slonem, which was included on the cover of the event invitation. “Art in Bloom” featured more than 100 exhibitors of spectacular floral designs, placed throughout the museum to complement works on view. Exhibitor categories included: Movers and Shakers, Professional Florists, Tablescapes and Young Artists. Guests at the Preview Party experienced an exclusive first look at these exquisite displays. At “Art in Bloom,” guest speakers included Former White House Chief Florist and author Laura Dowling and garden and floral designer and author James Farmer. n

Event at a Glance When: Wednesday, March 15 Where: New Orleans Museum of Art

1. J. T. and Event Chair Quincy Crawford with Event Chair Sarah and Greg Feirn 2. Dr. Stephen and Nancy Hales with Anne Kock and Tommy Westervelt of Sponsor IberiaBank 3. NOMA Director Susan M. Taylor, Hunt Slonem and Lynda Warshauer 4. Anne Redd, Lenny Lemoine and Caroline Calhoun 5. Kenneth St. Charles with Kia and Christy Brown 6. Jimmy and Susan Gundlach with Dee and Nat Phillips

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Photographed by Kenn y Martinez

What: “Art in Bloom Patron Party,” benefiting the New Orleans Museum of Art

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Mysterious Masquerade

Celebrity chefs and renowned musicians celebrated Creole Carnival at “Bal Masqué.” By Shelby Simon

The second annual Link Stryjewski Foundation “Bal Masqué” celebrated New Orleans’ Creole Carnival roots. Masked guests stepped back into the 17th century for an evening filled with food, wine and enchanting entertainment. Eight nationally renowned chefs prepared the special menu for the evening. On the roster: John Currence of City Grocery from Oxford, Mississippi; Suzanne Goin of Lucques from Los Angeles; Paul Kahan of Publican from Chicago; Mike Lata of FIG from Charleston, South Carolina; Nancy Oakes of Prospect from San Francisco; Richard Reddington of Redd from Yountville, California; Andrea Reusing of Lantern from Chapel Hill, North Carolina; and Maggie Scales of La Boulangerie, New Orleans. Dr. John & the Nite Trippers headlined the musical entertainment. Dr. John was also joined by Big Sam’s Funky Nation, The Roots of Music and Cha Wa Indians. The Merry Antoinettes also made an appearance. Approximately 400 people attended this year’s event, which supported the Link Stryjewski Foundation’s mission to nourish and educate the city’s youth and break the cycle of violence and poverty. n

Event at a Glance What: “Bal Masqué,” benefiting the Link Stryjewski Foundation Where: Orpheum Theater

1. Chef and Host Stephen Stryjewski, Trixie Minx and chef and Host Donald Link 2. Bill Hammack with Cheryl and Mayor Mitch Landrieu 3. Julia Reed and Heather Lolley 4. Julie Breeden and Bill Goldring 5. Luanne and Keith Liederman 6. Chefs John Currence, Paul Kahan, Nancy Oakes and Richard Reddington

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Photographed by Kenn y Martinez

When: Monday, January 9

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Fête on the Field

“Lark in the Park” brought a crowd to Tad Gormley Stadium to celebrate its restoration. By Shelby Simon

More than 1,200 attendees filled the field of Tad Gormley Stadium to celebrate “Lark in the Park,” Chaired by Aimée Gowland and Corrie Pellerin, the proceeds of which benefited the restoration of the field. The gala featured delectable dishes from more than 42 restaurants. Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar provided their famous Frozen French 75s, and Republic National Distributing Company provided premium libations and three specialty cocktails: Sizzling Sazerac, Lady Lark and Corazón Caper. The Walrus entertained guests until the programming portion of the evening. Auctioneers Margo DuBos and Juli Miller Hart got the crowd excited for five one-of-a-kind packages, including a week stay in a four-bedroom house on the Wild Dunes of Charleston, South Carolina; a progressive dinner for eight people at all four Dickie Brennan’s and Co. restaurants; a New York City trip to stay at the Ace Hotel; a week stay in an Asheville, North Carolina condo; and a painting by Patrick Puckett created specifically for “Lark in the Park.” The silent auction was a big hit with more than 85 items available for bidding, including travel, festival tickets, artwork, jewelry and krewe rides. After the live auction programming, AFX Pro, LLC put on a firework show that concluded with a performance in the stadium stands from the McDonough 35 marching band. DJ Ann Glaviano – HEATWAVE! then took the stage to spin vinyl records into the evening, with a lively crowd donning glow necklaces on the dance floor. n

Event at a Glance What: “Lark in the Park,” benefiting Friends of City Park Where: Field of Tad Gormley Stadium

1. Jason Villemarette and Karen DeBlieux 2. Vincent and Donna Giardina with Leigh Thorpe and Chad Berg 3. Lauren Kenney, Bradley Schneller and Jackie Palumbo 4. Jules and Clarice Moise 5. Fran Gladden and Ken Gowland 6. Lisa and DJ Romano with Tania Hahn

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Pho to graphed by Melissa Calico

When: Friday, March 10

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Great Grapes

The historic Hermann-Grima House opened its doors for wine tasting in the courtyard. By Shelby Simon

Illuminated by festoon lights, the beautiful HermannGrima Courtyard’s citrus trees, antique roses and camellias set a delightful backdrop for a night of great wine and food. The funds raised at “Amazing Grapes” directly supported the museum’s educational programs, ensuring the museum’s doors remain open and educational programming is presented to Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses’ ever-growing audience. Dr. Anne Long and Dr. Jenny Charpentier served as Event Co-Chairs. This year, HGGHH hosted its first “Super Happy Bubbly Hour” Patron Party. Patrons enjoyed glasses of bubbly and sparkling wines in the charming Hermann-Grima Courtyard until the start of the main event. New Orleans native and owner of Krewe Du Bizou Wines, Dr. James Moises, provided the delicious wine for the wine tasting. Food was provided by Broussard’s Restaurant. The Peter Gustafson Trio played the entire evening. The auction included 142 lots. Highlights included: Dom Perignon Champagne, a bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle 10-Year Bourbon, Jerobam of Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label Champagne, a private whiskey tasting for up to 24 people, two grand suite tickets to The Avett Brothers at the Saenger Theater, a mixed-media collage by Warren Irwin, 10 tickets to the Krewe of Orpheus Ball in 2018, a Limousine Livery ride and a dinner at Mosca’s. n

Event at a Glance What: “Amazing Grapes Wine Tasting and Auction for Education,” benefiting The Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses Where: Hermann-Grima House

1. Co-Chair Dr. Jenny and John Charpentier 2. Co-Chair Dr. Anne and Paul Long 3. Hicham Khodr, Dr. James Moises, Najeeb Thomas and Summer Black 4. John and Jennifer Marshall with Claire Leftwich and Richard Marshall 5. Robert and Patti Lapeyre 6. Caroline Ferguson, Jennifer Steck and Monica Frois

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Photographed by Jeff Strout

When: Friday, March 10

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Cooking for Children

“Chefs’ Charity for Children” celebrated its 40th anniversary with star-studded chefs. By Shelby Simon

The lineup at this year’s “Chefs’ Charity for Children” included nearly a dozen superstar chefs. Each demonstrated their chosen dish on stage before a crowd of more than 1,500 people before serving it at lunch. Chefs who participated were: Andrea Apuzzo of Andrea’s; John Besh of Restaurant August and 13 other properties; Leah Chase of Dooky Chase; Nina Compton of Compére Lapin; Justin Devillier of La Petite Grocery and Balise; John Folse of Restaurant R’evolution; David Slater of Emeril’s; Tory McPhail of Commander’s Palace; Greg Reggio of Zea and Mizado Latin Kitchen; Alon Shaya of Shaya, Domenica and Pizza Domenica; The Wong Brothers of Trey Yuen; and chef emeritus Goffredo Fraccaro formerly of La Riviera. Hilton Executive Chef Mark Dayanandan and his staff helped oversee the massive task of serving each chef ’s dish. For the event’s 40th anniversary, this year’s chefs were honored on stage during a special moment in the presentation, which featured a video produced by event chair Dominic Massa of WWL-TV. It also featured some former chefs, including chef Gunter Preuss and chef Goffredo Fraccaro, who were part of the first event in 1978. Two special live auction items helped fundraise even more for St. Michael Special School: a seven-night stay at Chef Andrea Apuzzo’s villa in Capri, Italy and a tour of the set of “NCIS: New Orleans,” which included a walk-on role. Event Chairs were Diane Drez Barnett, Nancy Colomb and Dominic Massa. Proceeds from this annual benefit support the St. Michael Special School, which educates children and adults with special needs through the greater New Orleans area. n

Event at a Glance What: “Chefs’ Charity for Children,” benefiting St. Michael Special School Where: Hilton New Orleans Riverside

1. Tish Sauerhoff and Event Chairs Diane Drez Barnett and Nancy Colomb with Kamryn London 2. Chefs Greg Reggio, Gunter Preuss, Goffredo Fraccaro and Justin Devillier 3. Chefs Tory McPhail, John Folse and Frank Wong

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Pho to graphed by Melissa Calico

When: Thursday, March 16

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Radiant In Red

The American Heart Association encouraged local women to make heart health a top priority. By Shelby Simon

The “Go Red For Women Luncheon” was aglow with red, with participants wearing light-up tiaras, flowers, sparkles and feathers, providing a dramatic backdrop. The luncheon is part of the Go Red For Women movement, which encourages women to take charge of their heart health. Valerie Englade and Colleen Monaghan served as Co-Chairs. Guest speaker Madeline Jones, a young heart transplant survivor, shared her story with attendees from the podium. The Go Red For Women silent auction, called “Purseanalities,” featured purses assembled by local celebrities, movers and shakers. These purses, filled with the donors’ favorite things, were auctioned off at the luncheon. Treasures included restaurant gift certificates, spa treatments, museum passes, jewelry, books and more. This year featured “Purseanalities” by Kathy Womac and The Womac Law Firm, Stephanie Burks, Dr. Louis and Janie Glade and Anita Demps. n

Event at a Glance What: “Go Red for Women Luncheon,” benefiting American Heart Association Where: Hyatt Regency New Orleans

1. Circle of Red Member and Co-Chair Valerie Englade, Circle of Red Member Annette Dowdle and Leslie Keen 2. Taslin Alfonzo, Kristen Robinson, Co-Chair Colleen Monaghan and Siona LaFrance 3. Circle of Red Members Beverly Matheney and Janie Glade

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Photographed by Kenn y Martinez

When: Thursday, February 2

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Access Through Apples

Louisiana Appleseed honored seven stand-out community members. By Shelby Simon

Seven community members who have shown tremendous generosity and commitment to social justice and pro bono excellence were honored as “Good Apples” at Louisiana Appleseed’s fundraiser gala. This year’s honorees included: Kathlyn Perez Bethune of Baker Donelson and Elizabeth Rutledge, formerly of Baker Donelson; Andrew Capitelli of Milling Benson Woodward, LLP and Emma Mekinda of Koeppel Clark Turner; Hon. Stanwood Duval of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana; Dr. Stephen Hales of Hales Pediatrics; and Charles L. Rice Jr. of Entergy New Orleans. Louisiana Appleseed Executive Director Christy Kane and Board President Irving Warshauer spoke at the event. Christy Harowski and Jack Weiss served as Co-Chairs, and Jessie Haynes, Kerry Murphy and Sharonda Williams comprised the Gala Committee. Boucherie provided catering, and JCB Creations created individually-wrapped apple cookies as a party favor. A studentcompiled jazz trio from NOCCA performed music, as well as Helen Gillet. The bar was generously donated by Rebecca Maisel and the Republic National Distributing Company, as well as sparkling wine donated by Hopper’s Carte des Vines and the Fraiche family. A rare wine raffle featuring a 2008 Chateau Lafite Rothschild valued at $800 for $50 a chance with only 20 chances was donated by board member Drew Ranier. The door prize featured a $150 gift card to Emeril’s Restaurant. Funds raised help Louisiana Appleseed further the organization’s mission of increasing access to education, opportunity and social justice. n

Event at a Glance What: “Good Apple Gala,” benefiting Louisiana Appleseed Where: Civic Theatre

1. Honoree Andrew Capitelli, Gala Co-Chair Christy Harowski, Executive Director Christy Kane and Honoree Dr. Stephen Hales 2. Board President Irving Warshauer with Honorees Emma Mekinda, Kathlyn Perez Bethune and the Hon. Stanwood Duval 3. Board President Allison Tiller and Gala Committee Member Jessie Haynes

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Photographed by Melissa Calico

When: Thursday, January 19

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Black-Tie Birthday

The Contemporary Arts Center celebrated its 40th Anniversary Season. By Shelby Simon

The Contemporary Arts Center held a black-tie birthday party in honor of its 40th Anniversary Season. Prior to the Gala, the Patron and Honorees Party took place at the art-filled Uptown home of CAC Trustee Valerie Besthoff. The following week, the SweetArts 2017 gala brought patrons to the Contemporary Arts Center, adorned in modern, elegant décor for the fête. “SweetArts” Honorees were: Jolene Pinder for Arts Educator/ Community Partner; Junebug Productions for Performing Arts; Corporate Realty for Philanthropist; and Tina Girouard, Gene Koss, Martin Payton and Mario Villa for Visual Arts. CAC Director and CEO Neil A. Barclay raised a toast to the milestone birthday, to the honorees and the founders and friends who have supported the CAC over the years. The toast included a presentation of cupcakes with sparklers by Trixie Minx Production's burlesque performers, and the Committee Chairs launched confetti canons into the crowd. The evening included a Blind Bid Art Auction with works from 23 local artists, custom on-the-spot poems written on a typewriter by Cubs the Poet, a festive birthday-themed photo booth, tarot card readers, Magnolia Makeup glitter lip station and a place to write birthday wishes to the CAC. A selection of drinks, passed hors d’oeuvres and small bites were provided by a host of local restaurants and beverage purveyors. T-Ray the Violinist played electric violin in the CAC’s Atrium during cocktail hour. Brice Miller and Twisted Dixie played New Orleans-inspired modern tunes and oldies to start the gala, and DJ Riviera Slim (Ron Rona) kept the late-night party going with popular hits that packed the dance floor. n

Event at a Glance What: “SweetArts,” benefiting the Contemporary Arts Center When: Saturday, February 4

1. Honoree Mario Villa with John Cleveland and Lin Emery 2. Patrick Quinn and Holley Haag 3. Danielle Boveland, David T. Baker, Maria Donn and Kevin Wuyts

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Photograph ed by Gil Rubman

Where: The Contemporary Arts Center

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More Than Cookies

The Girl Scouts Louisiana East hosted a cookie-filled gala to support development programs. By Shelby Simon

In keeping with the jazz-themed Club XLIV venue, “Cookies & Cocktails & All That Jazz” was the theme of the Girl Scouts Louisiana East’s third annual gala. Nearly 300 guests attended the gala, which supports GSLE and its leadership development program for girls. In honor of the Girl Scouts, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome was lit up in green! Event Co-Chairs included Girl Scout Board Member Dr. Allison Augustus-Wallace and WVUE-TV news anchor Nancy Parker. Twenty chefs and bartenders from New Orleans area restaurants made one-of-a-kind appetizers, desserts and cocktails using Girl Scout cookies. Guests and judges sampled this array of delicious selections throughout the evening, voting on their favorites. Guest Judges included NFL analyst Mike Detillier; community medicine physician and health educator Dr. Eric D. “Doc” Griggs; food columnist Kristine Foreba of the Uptown Messenger; and host of WWNO’s Out To Lunch Peter Ricchiuti. At the end of the evening, emcee and “News With A Twist” reporter Kenny Lopez awarded the cookie competition winners with an engraved highball glass, while all participants received an engraved shot glass. Jazz vocalist Anaïs St. John performed for the whole evening, and a special impromptu performance with her band was made by Nancy Parker on the drums. Approximately 50 items were donated for the online silent auction, including a framed George Rodrigue Blue Dog print, an Audubon Nature Institute overnight camping experience, two signed pieces of art from Terrance Osborne and a Girl Scoutinspired Nyx purse. Partygoers also participated in a cookie swap: Each guest received a wrapped box of Girl Scout cookies, which they could swap with another guest if they desired another favorite variety. n

Event at a Glance When: Saturday, February 4 Where: Club XLIV

1. Hugh V. Wallace III, Co-Chair and Board Member Dr. Allison Augustus-Wallace, Co-Chair Nancy Parker and Glenn Boyd 2. Guest Judges Mike Detillier, Dr. Eric D. "Doc" Griggs, Kristine Froeba and Peter Ricchiuti 3. Terrance and Stephanie Osborne

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Photographed by Will Strout

What: “Cookies & Cocktails & All That Jazz,” benefiting Girl Scouts Louisiana East

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Community Connection

Bastion raised funds to build a community of support for returning warriors and their families. By Shelby Simon

Bastion knows that through community care, we’ll sustain recovery from the wounds of war. The nonprofit organization has built America’s first intentional community for warriors and families that need a stronghold and is currently developing a $2 million campaign to fully recognize the vision of providing home to 78 returning warriors and their families. Phase 1 is well underway, with five households already filled. Palate New Orleans Catering provided an array of passed hors d’oeuvres. An impressive selection of libations flowed generously throughout the evening. Event Chairs were Louis and Courtney Freeman and James and Erica Reiss; 160 guests attended. Founder of Bastion, Dylan Tête, delivered a heartfelt speech to iterate Bastion’s mission and the importance of communities working together. “With community you can create purpose, a sense of belonging and connectedness. That’s a prescription that no health system can fill, and yet these things are essential to the reintegration of returning warriors and families.” Tête described the structure of Bastion, which consists of 78 apartments (39 double family homes) spread across five-and-ahalf acres, including a lawn for restoration and a Wellness Center for health and education programs. What is less obvious, however, is that each resident gives six hours of service to further invest in their community. “You see, we believe that just because your uniformed service may be over, service to your community never ends. What can be more American than that?” n

Event at a Glance What: “Building Bastion Cocktail Celebration,” benefiting Bastion Where: Home of Courtney and Louis Freeman

1. Co-Chairs and Hosts Louis Freeman Jr. and Courtney Freeman with Co-Chairs Erica and James Reiss III 2. Founder Dylan Tête, Peter Boylan and Rick Hall 3. Jim and Stephanie Huger with Elizabeth and Peyton Bush

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Photographed by Melissa Calico

When: Thursday, March 9

Over-Easy Like Sunday Morning 11 New Orleans brunches By Kelcy Wilburn Photographed by Cheryl Gerber

Whether you’re the kind of person to wake early on a Sunday morning ready to greet the day after a great night’s sleep or the kind who wakes late and a little groggy from too much weekend fun, there’s one thing that every Sunday riser in New Orleans can look forward to. No, I’m not talking about the Saints – I’m talking about Sunday brunch, the relaxed, morning-intoafternoon meal that brings friends and families together over an array of savory and sweet dishes and eye-opening cocktails you might skip at such an hour on any other day.

Whether you want classics like eggs Benedict or French toast as they’ve been prepared for decades, or you seek new spins that highlight local, seasonal ingredients like crawfish or Creole tomatoes, local brunch menus deliver on all levels. Between festivals, graduations, Mother’s Day and weddings, May brings a lot of reasons to celebrate over food, and brunch is the perfect celebratory meal. This month, we’ve checked in with several area restaurants with their own take on the beloved tradition.

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Brown Butter Southern Kitchen and Bar 231 N. Carrollton Ave., Suite C, 609-3871, BrownButterRestaurant.com From its unassuming location in Mid-City at the corner of Bienville Street and Carrollton Avenue, Brown Butter Southern Kitchen & Bar has been growing its audience and reputation over the past two years with a distinctly Southern menu that its founders claim covers “the low country to Cajun country,” as evidenced by the Beef Short Ribs, Chicken & Waffle and Shrimp & Grits brunch entrées. Delights of the menu include the Brunch Burger and Crab Mac & Cheese, both of which were recently featured on the Food Network’s “Burgers, Brew & ’Que” hosted by Michael Symon. The burger is an eight-ounce brisket and short rib blend with melted double cream brie cheese, bacon and onion marmalade, arugula and a fried egg. The Iron Chef gushed over the Crab Mac & Cheese with its pimento cheese mornay, crunchy topping and chives. According to Partner Simon Beck, the Green Tomato & Crab Benny is a favorite of Brown Butter’s brunch crowd, and features fried green tomatoes and crab meat served on a hoecake with poached eggs and finished with hollandaise. “Our guests like our twists on traditional brunch fare and our staff loves being able to sell a product that they can stand behind,” says Beck. “What we’ve heard time and again from our guests is how they can’t believe the type of food that comes out of our little kitchen at a restaurant housed in a strip mall.” Brown Butter takes reservations for Saturday and Sunday brunch via OpenTable. The Mid-City location is convenient to both the Fair Grounds and Bayou Boogaloo on Bayou St. John. 48 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

SoBou 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, SoBouNola.com Serving up music with food is part of the New Orleans tradition – hence the many jazz brunches featuring Dixieland favorites. A couple restaurants are bucking the trend, subbing out Dixieland for – at least in one case – a spicier offering. “SoBou hosts Burlesque Brunch – or as we like to call it, ‘Legs and Eggs’– featuring world-famous burlesque dancer Bella Blue performing to live jazz by The Dapper

Dandies,” says Lelia Lambert, GM. “New Orleans has a long history with burlesque dancing; our city was a hotspot from the 1940s-’60s. Not to be outdone by the show, chef Juan Carlos Gonzalez features a threecourse prix fixe menu,” says Lambert. To complement the dancing, chef Carlos always offers a signature Legs & Eggs dish, with a changing “leg” component: rabbit legs, softshell crab legs, chicken legs, frog legs, etc. Burlesque Brunch can be a boozy brunch if you like, and the SoBou-zy Brunch Hooch Punch is served in a giant flask for the whole table to share. Bar Chef Laura Bellucci’s eye-opener menu also includes the Honey Buzz Milk Punch, the Commander’s Palace Bloody Mary and sparkling cocktails.

Tableau 616 St. Peter St., 934-3463, TableauFrenchQuarter.com

LEFT Crabby mac and cheese from Brown Butter TOP Cafe Brûlot at Arnaud’s BOTTOM Arnaud’s crêpe Florentine

On the edge of Jackson Square, Dickie Brennan & Co.’s Tableau offers a new take on the traditional jazz brunch with Brass Brunch, Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m.-3 p.m. A brass band moves about the restaurant playing spirited contemporary and classic songs. “Our brunch service is a nice change of pace for our guests and staff alike. Live entertainment and unique food and drink give us all a reason to look forward to the weekend,” says Chris Esteve, GM. Chef John Martin puts his spin on the classics, such as an eggs Benedict made with sautéed Chisesi ham and topped with fried Louisiana oysters. According to Esteve, guests regularly return for Tableau’s croque madame, which also features local Chisesi ham with gruyère on brioche with a fried egg and mornay sauce. “It’s over the top delicious,” he says. Tableau also recently started offering $15 “bottomless” mimosas. “It’s no secret that visitors and locals like to have fun in the French Quarter into the early morning hours. Waking up the next morning calls for an eye opener and good meal to keep the weekend going,” says Esteve.

Brennan’s 417 Royal St., 525-9711, BrennansNewOrleans.com In addition to SoBou and Tableau, the French Quarter offers a wealth of great brunches, many of which have been around for generations. Brennan’s is one that offers brunch daily, 9 a.m.-2

p.m. Mondays-Fridays and 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on weekends. Brennan’s has a lot to offer this month on Mother’s Day weekend. On Saturday, May 143 Brennan’s hosts its third annual Turtle Parade honoring its fountain-dwelling mascots named after the “Mother Sauces” of French Cuisine. The day features a parade through the French Quarter in addition to an after-party that includes a blessing, champagne sabering and complimentary hors d’oeuvres and confections. On Sunday, May 14, Brennan’s will celebrate Mother’s Day with a threecourse brunch for $65. “Our ‘Breakfast at Brennan’s,’ (aka brunch) is a beloved institution – a celebration, a tradition and an expression that trips off the tongue. Guests love the experience because it’s a long festive morning parade,” says Christian Pendleton, GM. Brunch cocktails at Brennan’s include the creamy Caribbean Milk Punch, the spicy Cajun Bloody Mary and the refreshing Sparkling Pear cocktail made with sparkling wine.

Arnaud’s Restaurant 813 Bienville St., 523-5433, ArnaudsRestaurant.com Arnaud’s Restaurant offers a seemingly timeless New Orleans Sunday jazz brunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with classic Dixieland jazz, sweet starters and savory entrées. This month, Arnaud’s is excited to announce new menu items for brunch-goers, including the crêpe Florentine, a new preparation of their pork tenderloin, and – for those who can’t skip filet au poivre – the dinner steak entrée is now available at brunch.

“Arnaud’s expertise in Creole cuisine, and our longtime chef Tommy DiGiovanni are a perfect match for our magnificent collection of dining rooms. There’s no other place like it,” says Co-Owner Katy Casbarian. During brunch, Arnaud’s offers an extensive four-course, prix-fixe brunch menu, where the price of the entrée selection is the price of the complete brunch. According to Casbarian, favorites include the Creole cream cheese Evangeline and savory entrées, like eggs Fauteux or grillades and grits. Cocktails featured during brunch include a selection of Arnaud’s favorites like the Ojen Frappe and lemongrass Collins. For coffee lovers, Arnaud’s Iced Coffee Grog and famous café brûlot offer a great morning boost, too.

Antoine’s Restaurant 713 St. Louis St., 581-4422, Antoines.com Antoine’s Restaurant is another classic French Quarter stop with over 175 years of culinary history. Offering Sunday jazz brunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Antoine’s is known for its FrenchCreole tradition, and claims the creation of the brunch staple eggs Sardou (or oeufs Sardou), poached eggs over steamed artichoke bottoms with hollandaise sauce. Other traditional brunch entrées include eggs Benedict and Florentine or omelettes featuring crab, shrimp or cheese. The crab cakes are an Antoine’s favorite and can be ordered as an entrée on the à la carte menu or as an appetizer during May’s threecourse brunch special (not available on Mother’s Day). Mother’s Day will feature its own three-course menu alongside the à la carte menu. “Brunch is a wonderful way to end the weekend and start the new week. Our jazz brunch is festive and always feels like a celebration, and our Bloody Marys are the perfect remedy after a Saturday night of partying in New Orleans,” says Director of Sales and Marketing Wendy Chatelain. 50 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

TOP Court of Two Sisters BOTTOM Bloody Mary, Antoine’s Smile and mimosa at Antoine’s

Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal St., 522-7261, CourtOfTwoSisters.com For an outdoor French Quarter brunch experience, Court of Two Sisters is always on the map with its jazz brunch buffet offered 9 a.m.-3 p.m. seven days a week. “Our courtyard is very lush and vibrant in the spring. It’s a great time to enjoy brunch or dinner outside,” says Director of Marketing Michelle Morantez. “Everyone enjoys being outside, especially on beautiful spring days. Live jazz music during brunch also adds to the fun, relaxing atmosphere,” she says. The courtyard tends to fill up, so reservations are recommended. The comprehensive brunch buffet features a variety of hot and cold dishes, New Orleans favorites and an omelet station where guests can customize their orders. According to Morantez, some of the top brunch picks are the Seafood Orleans omelet, grits and grillades, glazed sweet potatoes, and bread pudding. The buffet is complemented by drinks like the Bayou Bash, a traditional punch featuring Southern Comfort and assorted fruit juices, topped with red wine.

Caribbean Room 2031 St. Charles Ave., 323-1500, TheCaribbeanRoom.com While the French Quarter is certainly packed with great brunches, there’s also an abundance of restaurants near Tulane, Loyola, and Xavier – great for graduation weekend. Located on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line, the recently restored Caribbean Room has been given new life from chefs John Besh and Chris Lusk. As part of the revival of the Lower Garden District’s Pontchartrain Hotel, Caribbean Room offers a menu boosted by the “fresh, contemporary energy” of Executive Chef Chris Lusk. Brunch is offered on Sundays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. According to General Manager Tony Abadie, the menu changes often to reflect the best of what the Gulf has to offer. A popular standby – and don’t be fooled by the simple name – is the Eggs and Toast, a surprisingly decadent combination of butter brioche toast with

Green Hill cheese and two soft-scrambled eggs finished with shaved truffle and chives. As to cocktails: “You can’t go wrong with a B’s Bloody Mary. Our bartender Brian makes his own Bloody Mary mix that’s outstanding. We also have an Orange Milk Punch which is our twist on the classic New Orleans offering,” says Abadie.

Carrollton Market 8132 Hampson St., 252-9928, CarrolltonMarket.com In the Riverbend, Carrollton Market is raising eyebrows with its brunch, recently named 12th Best Brunch in America by Time Out. The brunch is also slated for a feature on a major national network this month. Brunch hours are Saturdays-Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; however, on Sunday the 14th and 21st of May (for Mother’s Day and graduation weekends), Carrollton Market will extend hours to 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Bar Manager Dusty Mars offers a menu of cocktails that includes a housemade Bloody Mary, a mimosa with orange liqueur and a “Pimmosa,” which achieves the best of a Pimm’s Cup and a mimosa. Additionally, their popular iced coffee is made by cold brewing Orleans Coffee’s Cafe Noir. Signature dishes of Chef/Owner Jason Goodenough are the Oysters Goodenough French Omelet and the Biscuits ‘n’ Debris. “The omelet features our signature item, Oysters Goodenough, wrapped up inside a French Omelet. The creamed leeks, Benton’s Bacon and fried oysters are inside the omelet. We then top that with a liberal amount of béarnaise,” says Goodenough. The Biscuits ‘n’ Debris features cornbread biscuits buttertoasted on both sides and topped with roast beef debris, two poached eggs and spicy hollandaise.

Chais Delachaise 7708 Maple St., 510-4509, ChaisDelachaise.com

A few blocks away, located on Maple Street, is Chais Delachaise, which last month announced the arrival of chef Steven Manning previously of Annunciation

Restaurant and Clancy’s. According to Proprietor Trace Hayes, Manning is excited to bring his love of global flavors to the neighborhood bistro. Brunch at Chais Delachaise is offered on Saturdays-Sundays 11: a.m.-3 p.m. Highlights of the brunch menu include the shrimp chimichurri and crawfish cakes appetizers. The jumbo Gulf shrimp are grilled and accompanied by chimichurri and melon relish, while the crawfish cakes are served with a charred salsa verde, cebollitas and crème fraîche. This season, the crawfish Benedict is a popular entrée choice and features fresh local crawfish and creamy herbsaint infused spinach on toasted baguette with hollandaise. “My personal favorite is the oysters Delachaise,” says Hayes. “Oysters are poached in cream combined with our house preserved Meyer lemons, which take on a complex subtle licorice flavor. Add to that the grilled romaine lettuce and applewood smoked bacon over grilled ciabatta. The combination is just fantastic.”

DTB 8201 Oak St., 518-6889, DTBNola.com New in town is DTB, an acronym for “Down The Bayou,” where chef Carl Schaubhut provides playful and approachable interpretations of Cajun cuisine. Located on Oak Street, DTB is excited to offer brunch and extend it through Monday, so that industry and weekend workers can also enjoy the meal. “Monday will be our ‘blow out’ day,” says Schaubhut, “with Bloody Mary specials, affordable beers and of course, bottomless sparkling wine for a small charge. FridaysSundays brunches will be a little more traditional, family friendly and à la carte,” he says. Examples of playful twists include an oyster poboy with fried oysters, brisket debris, Gruyère and horseradish aioli. Additionally, the fried cornbread is served with ham hock marmalade, goat cheese and jalapeño. Subject to change, DTB’s brunch hours are Fridays and Mondays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays.

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In the Land of Hospitality 20+ Tips for hosting a gala at home By Mirella Camera Photographed by Elizabeth Dondis

osting a gala at home can be an intimidating task, but when you live in the South, where hospitality is an art form, the stakes are even higher. Fear not! We talked to some of the most seasoned pros, some household names and others dear friends to reveal the entertaining secrets that every hostess for parties – large or small – needs to know. Julia Reed, the acclaimed Southern entertaining expert, writes in her book Julia Reed’s

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South, “The main thing is that it all should be a pleasure – the planning, the list making of guests and groceries, the decoration of your table, even if you only have time for a bowl of fruit or a couple of low cylinders of grocery store roses.” With all the hard work necessary to put on a gala at home, and all the details to consider, having fun might seem a tall order. However, the consensus is clear: The hostess or host sets the tone for the entire event. Peggy Laborde, hostess of many a philanthropic evening, says, “My best advice is to

be relaxed and enjoy your party. The single most important thing you can do is smile and make people feel comfortable, even when disasters occur, which they will.” Jill Pipes, another Uptown hostess who recently held a cocktail party for KID smART honoring local artist George Dunbar, agrees, saying, “The women I find most inspiring are my friends. Southern women have an instinct for hosting and make it appear effortless.” Jeanne Harang Boughton, a former Junior League President with a talent for fun affairs,

Dana Hansel’s 10 Point Perfect Party Plan Dana Hansel is one of the city’s most practiced and generous hostess; she has lent her beautiful Metairie home to numerous nonprofits, among them local TV station WYES and the New Orleans Museum of Art. Here we have her top 10 tips for the home hostesses: 1. Walk your party; think about bottlenecks! 2. Think about electrics, do you need extra power supplies for a band or heaters? 3. Brief your staff on any restrictions, furniture or surfaces that cannot be used. 4. Rope off any “no entry” areas with a ribbon or some candles. 5. Assign a staff person to monitor the bathrooms; they’ll need restocking and tidying. 6. Create a timeline, with everything on it from setup to break down. 7. Communicate parking instructions ahead of time. 8. Keep a supply of Wine-Out, it works like a charm on spillages. 9. Invite the neighbors! 10. Have fun: If you do, your guests will, too!

thanks her grandmother for instilling the values of entertaining in her, “I remember how she would be able to pull a party together, being creative with her surroundings and making every guest feel at home.” The truth is behind all this grace and ease is a great deal of knowledge, hours of planning and a strategic approach. Bronson Van Wyck, of Van Wyck & Van Wyck, a familyowned, global environmental design and event production firm based in New York, shares his approach to party planning, “No one entertains like people in New Orleans. It’s a city filled with history – the trees, the architecture, the homes, they have all been there so long that they have their own stories to tell and a patina to celebrate. “I think that’s why New Orleanians are so thoughtful; they know they need to engage all the senses when they host a party. He continues, “It’s also a special thing when people host at home; it’s a chance to peek behind the curtain and it’s so much more interesting than a corporate ballroom. It’s a time for the hosts to tell their story in their surroundings that reflect them, their lives, their personalities and their passions.” His advice? “So, think about what happens when the guests arrive. How will the story begin? How can you instantly make your guests feel welcome? Can you offer cocktails in the garden and then invite them to progress into the house and its rooms? “Keep the guest’s journey and the flow of the party in your mind all the time, place your bars strategically so they don’t choke up the party or block a way out.” “People are not at a party to sit down,” he continues. “Remove the big easy chairs and perhaps create some seating with smaller gold party chairs. Consider the lighting; no one wants harsh illumination that makes them

look 10 years older. Think about bringing in lights to create a glow that puts everyone at ease. “If you’re outside, think practically: Are there security lights to turn off? Are you likely to be eaten alive by mosquitoes? You have to consider your guests’ entire hierarchy of needs and take care of each, one by one.” “Once the basics are covered,” he says, “allow your own personality and creativity to come through. A mix of high-low can be fun, M&Ms and caviar can happily coexist. “If your party is for a philanthropic entity, find ways to engage your guests and deepen their relationship with the cause. For an event for The Edible Schoolyard NYC (a nonprofit founded by Alice Waters), we created chandeliers made of thousands of carrots. It was a simple idea in a way, but it communicated the essence of what the event was about in a fun, enjoyable manner.” He concludes, “Extend your hospitality to your neighbors; if they can’t come to the event, send them a hamper for the morning with breakfast items and some bloody Mary mix, perhaps one of the ones we produce at Arrowhead Farms. A little courtesy goes a long way.’ Dana Hansel, who has lent her house to many a nonprofit always considers the neighbors and adds special touches to her parties, “For a school’s donor recognition party, I added a trivia game about the school and awarded prizes. “Sometimes you have to learn from your mistakes, or ideally from someone else’s. Dana continues, “I had a party once where someone threw my linen towel onto the candle in the bathroom. Needless to say, a house fire was avoided only by the quick reaction of the next guest who threw the linen into the sink to water it down. Going forward, I don’t have candles in the bathrooms for large parties.”

Expertise and Creativity Susan Zackin, of Z Event Company, an event planner with over 30 years experience, is well versed in hosting at home. Hosting a large event is a challenge at a home because the backyard or outside area is usually needed to accommodate the guest list. The weather then becomes a major issue and a “plan B” must be in place in the case it rains. “Even if you entertain regularly, when you’re dealing with large groups of people having an expert on hand will allow you relax and enjoy your party instead of being tied down to managing all the logistics. “Entertaining is a gene in the South,” she continues, “passed down through generations, so people like to add special touches and creativity. Sometimes we’ll add a special drink or bar to reflect the hosts’ personalities or we’ll have the valet leave a special gift in the guest’s cars. “Other times, bigger, more creative ideas are needed; this past year we designed the ‘50th Odyssey Ball’ for NOMA and we suspended over 3000 balloons from the ceiling from monofilament to resemble champagne bubbles. “Even when disasters do occur, our expertise enables us to come up with solutions. We had a wedding on January 1, and knowing there would be torrential rains in the area we tented the reception location days in advance to keep the ground dry. The morning of the event, after it had rained all night, we saw that almost a foot of water had flooded most of the floor under the tent. With help from a key vendor, we came up with the idea to build a new raised floor over all of the water; we put a crew together on New Year’s Day and brought it all to the North Shore and completed the project in a matter of a few hours to save the day! Even the guests kept commenting on the fact that

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it was amazing we were able to make it work despite the weather.” Kimberley Sayatovic, Founder and Creative Director of Belladeux Events, also explains some of the pitfalls of at-home events, “People in the South are usually very good at hosting smaller parties, but when you get into the hundreds there are additional issues to consider. “Evaluate how many different vendors you are going to need and think practically about additional licensing or noise ordinance. It’s always worth checking with City Hall about these issues. If you hire a full-service caterer they’re legally allowed to serve alcohol at your house. “You can still have an amazing party at home though,” she continues. “Just last year we completely transformed a client’s home into an Elizabethan castle and had the wait staff dress up in period costumes.” When it comes to décor, Betsy Laborde who has hosted numerous galas at her beautiful home on St. Charles Avenue 54 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

for organizations such as the Preservation Resource Center, Art for Art’s Sake, The Junior League and Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses, as well as for numerous school events and wedding parties for friends, says, “When I open my house I do it with an open mind. I am always happy to provide the backdrop for the party but I leave it up to the organizers to adapt the space for their own purposes. “We have found having an outdoor kitchen provides versatility and there’s usually an easy flow from indoor to out,” she says. “People are always so kind in thanking us but it makes us happy to see our home full of people having fun while trying to do things to improve our city.” “There was one time though, when I didn’t order enough food for the table so I had to have my husband Gary throw a few filet tenderloins on the grill. In the end, they went like hot cakes.” Walton Goldring, who lives just a short distance away on St. Charles Avenue and had

only been living in her house a few months before she hosted an event for a nonprofit organization says, “There are many causes in the city that are close to my heart, and being able to provide a venue for people to connect and engage is a way for me to give back to the community. “There’s a special approach to philanthropy in this city,” she continues, “it’s a very personal thing, driven to a great extent by many individuals who get together to celebrate the passion they feel about certain causes. I am grateful to be part of that culture.” Steve Ambrose of Ambrose Garden, who has worked with many hosts in his time, says, “With philanthropic galas you often have to be creative with the budget. We try to use things the hosts already have, like containers or green blooming plants which we can then enhance with flowers.” If budgets are on the slimmer side, chef Nora Wetzel, who runs her own catering company, The Educated Palate, advises, “Bars can sometimes be self-service, especially

Resources

for wine, beer or soft drinks. Cocktails can be made as a batch and dispensed from pitcher. “It’s usually best to start with a theme, maybe there’s a hobby of the host or the honorees you can use to create some ‘tablescapes’ incorporating local flowers and foliage,” she adds. “Fortunately, with food, people like local recipes and ingredients such as crab, shrimp, tomatoes and okra.” Anne Lloyd of Nolavore recommends finger-food or small plates at large events; “People need to be able to grab bite-sized portions when they’re standing up holding a drink. However, even traditional dishes can be adapted and presented in mini form.” Vicky Herman of R.S.V.P. Decorating, Inc., who has

organized events for the likes of Bill Clinton and the King of Saudi Arabia, recommends working with professionals, “Whether you’re hosting hundreds or planning an intimate soiree, a little help from a professional goes a long way. Not only do we have access to copious resources, we might just be able to suggest a few creative twists, which will turn a great event into a magical, unforgettable experience.” New Orleans is blessed with many event professionals who marry expertise with creativity. Seasoned hosts often have their own hand-picked teams with whom they work every time. Fortunately, there many companies, like Party Rentals Delivered for example, who,

although relatively new, offer reliable, efficient, first class products and services for all events large and small. Perrier Party Rentals is another company with decades of event experience and extensive resources that hosts can tap into for anything from silverware to kitchen equipment. Villere’s Florist in Metairie and Covington has been in business since 1969 and has provided arrangements for almost every social event at some point. Experts like Villere’s can guide a hostess through the options of flowers, tropicals and plants. They can help you choose between European and English, contemporary and classic arrangements, as well as custom design the floral décor to complement the style of your home and the vibe of the party. New Orleanian Lauren Gurvich King, married to Jeremy King, partner in the Corbin and King company and creator of London’s most iconic and best loved restaurants in London as well as The Beaumont Hotel, believes focusing on the beginning of a party will lead to a happy ending, “One of the hallmarks of Southern hospitality is generosity on whatever scale. “Set the scene with loads of foliage and flowers, candlelight everywhere for warmth and flattering lighting and a great New Orleans jazz band to greet guests as they arrive, as well as trays of one perfect cocktail to get everyone in a good mood. If you get the arrival right, the rest will flow beautifully.” Hosting a gala in New Orleans, instead of being a daunting task, can actually be a time to call on friends, tap into friendly experts and have fun.

Ambrose Garden Florist 861-1953 TheNewOrleansFlorist. com Belladeux Events 323-2100 BelladeuxEvents.com The Educated Palate 451-9646 TheEducatedPalate.us Nolavore 914-3161 Nolavore.net Party Rentals Delivered 305-5785 PartyRentalsDelivered. com Perrier Party Rentals 834-8570 PerrierPartyRentals.com R.S.V.P. Decorating, Inc. 738-1115 RSVPDecorating.com Van Wyck & Van Wyck (212) 675-8601 VanWyck.net Villere’s Florist 345-1246 VilleresFlowers.com Z Event Company (800) 714-9050 ZEventCo.com

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St. Charles Avenue’s

Registry of Charitable Events May- August 2017 Compiled by Morgan Packard Griffith

MAY 1

Event: “Business Hall of Fame Gala” Benefits: Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans, Inc. Event Info.: Established in 1984, the Business Hall of Fame honors local businessmen and women who have “embraced the spirit of entrepreneurship in our community. Tickets: $350/Ticket; $3,500/Table of 10; $5,000/ Chairman’s Table Location: Roosevelt New Orleans: 130 Roosevelt Way Contact: 569-8658, JuniorAchievement.org

1 Event: “Instruments A Comin’” Benefits: Tipitina’s Foundation Event Info.: A free outdoor festival, silent auction and battle of the bands featuring performances by marching bands from four IAC recipient schools, The Tipitina’s Interns and induction ceremonies for Tipitina’s Wall and walk of Fame. A star-studded benefit concert will follow. All proceeds benefit Tipitina’s Foundation’s efforts to place instruments in local area school band programs. Tickets: Free; $50/Concert Ticket; $200/VIP Location: Tipitina’s Uptown: 501 Napoleon Ave. Contact: 895-8477, Tipitinas.com

2 Event: “GiveNOLA Fest” Benefits: Greater New Orleans Foundation Center of Philanthropy Event Info.: Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Irma Thomas and Rebirth Brass Band will headline the first ever “Give NOLA Fest,” a free outdoor concert with food and drink available from myriad local restaurants. This event will be a “celebration of giving,” benefiting more than 700 nonprofits that have signed up to participate in the fourth annual “GiveNOLA Day.” Tickets: Free Location: GNOF Center of Philanthropy (at Lee Circle): 919 St. Charles Ave. Contact: GiveNOLA.org/Fest

5 Event: 40th annual “Whitney Zoo-To-Do” Benefits: Audubon Zoo (specifically expansion of the Jaguar Jungle” Event Info.: This year’s event will feature food by 70 restaurants, as well as 40 specialty and full-service cocktail bars and Luxury Vehicle Raffle of a 2017 Lexus RX350 donated by Lexus of New Orleans. There will also be a silent auction featuring staycations, dining experiences, jewelry and more. (The auction site will be available two weeks prior to the event; to inquire about making a donation to the auction, please contact Lawton Fabacher by emailing LFabacher@AudubonInstitute.org.) Headline entertainment will be by Jessie’s Girls, with additional entertainment Walter “Wolfman” Washington and the Roadmasters, Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns and Julio y Cesar. Tickets: $85-$175/Ticket; $225-$550/Patron; $1,650-$12,500/Sponsor Location: Audubon Zoo: 6500 Magazine St. Contact: 861-6160, AudubonNatureInstitute.org

12 Event: “Suits and Salads Luncheon” Benefits: Dress for Success New Orleans Event Info.: This annual event begins with a silent auction and features craft cocktails, raffles and giveaways, a Style Setters Fashion Show and a motivational speech by Ashley Longshore, as well as a champagne toast to mothers and the presentation of Dress for Success New Orleans’ Client of the Year and Volunteer of the Year. Tickets: $85/Ticket; $125/Patron; Sponsorships available Location: Hyatt Regency New Orleans: 601 Loyola Ave. Contact: 891-4337

12 Event: “Guardian Angel Award Gala” Benefits: Project Lazarus Event Info.: The gala celebrates the contributions of Project Lazarus’ friends and supporters. The Guardian Angel Award 2017 will be given to Vincent Saia Jr. and Bruce Gallassero. The event, hosted by Bryan Batt, will feature a cocktail hour, a three-course dinner, an

awards ceremony and high-end live and silent auctions. Tickets: $175/Ticket Location: Ace Hotel New Orleans: 600 Carondelet St. Contact: 949-3609, extension 503

12 Event: 22nd annual “Women of Substance Luncheon” Benefits: Bridge House/Grace House Event Info.: This year’s event is centered around the theme “Inspiring Grace Through Mind, Body and Spirit,” and will honor Molly Kimball, Erin Romney and Parker Sternberg. In addition, a Volunteer of the Year, Grace House Alumna of the Year and a Richard “Buzzy” Gaiennie Award recipient will also be honored. Tickets: $100/Ticket; $1,000/Table Location: Audubon Tea Room: 6500 Magazine St. Contact: 821-7134

13 Event: “Gator Run” Benefits: “Holy Name of Jesus School” Event Info.: This annual run/walk for all ages will be followed by a crawfish boil at the school. Tickets: $20/Ticket Location: Audubon Park: 6500 Magazine St. Contact: 861-1466

13 Event: “Art & Soul” Benefits: The New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts Institute Event Info.: This year’s event will feature food from NOCCA’s Culinary Arts students as well as some of New Orleans’ favorite restaurants; music by Preservation Hall All-Stars, Sweet Crude and Cha Wa; and both silent and live auctions featuring artwork, vacation packages and more. Tickets: $100/Ticket; $250/Patron; $50/Twilight Ticket (35 and under) Location: NOCCA’s Chevron Forum: 2800 Chartres St. Contact: 940-2851

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Event: 15th annual “Golf Classic” Benefits: The Foundation at East Jefferson General Hospital Event Info.: Begun by community volunteers who wanted to make a difference in the lives of EJGH patients, this has “evolved into one of the premier golf tournaments in the region.” An awards ceremony and reception will follow the tournament. Tickets: Sponsorships available Location: Metairie Country Club: 580 Woodvine Ave. Contact: 503-5025

Event: “Rhythm & Soul Gala” Benefits: Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans Event Info.: This year’s gala will celebrate the achievements of honorees Ellie Wainer and the Teen Life Counts program, and empower the agency to continue its community work. Patron-level sponsors will be treated to a champagne reception followed by a jazz dinner and special presentation. Tickets: $125/Ticket Location: Audubon Tea Room: 6500 Magazine St. Contact: 831-8475

18 Event: “16th Anniversary Gala” Benefits: Innocence Project New Orleans Event Info.: This year’s gala will include a cocktail party, catered buffet dinner, open bar, silent auction and more to celebrate the Innocence Project’s freed, innocent clients and to recognize the scores of innocent men and women still incarcerated and needing legal assistance. Tickets: $150/Ticket; Tables and Sponsorships available Location: The Cannery: 3803 Toulouse St. Contact: 943-1902

19 Event: “Heart & Soul Gala” Benefits: American Heart Association Event Info.: This event will help raise funds to help create education outreach programs to benefit the New Orleans community, including CPR training and certification; placement of Automated external defibrillators; and funding for groundbreaking medical research. The American Heart Association, the oldest and largest voluntary health organization in the nation, works to fight cardiovascular diseases and defects, the No. 1 killer in Louisiana. Tickets: N/A Location: Hyatt Regency New Orleans: 601 Loyola Ave. Contact: 830-2300

20 Event: Third annual “New Orleans Cat Art & Film Festival” Benefits: Louisiana SPCA and Art for Cat’s Sake Event Info.: A day to enjoy internet cat videos, purchase original feline art, jewelry, food and drinks and much more, including music by “Music by Request,” workshops, adoptable kittens and contests. Tickets: $5/Presale; $12/Presale and Film; $25/ VIP Location: Delgado Student Life Center: 5518 General Diaz St. Contact: 368-5191, LA-SPCA.org/CatFestival

58 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

21 Event: 27th annual “Le Gala de la Bonne Vie” Benefits: National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana Event Info.: At this year’s event eight community leaders will be honored for their support of the foundation. The gala will also feature cocktails, a silent auction, food from some of New Orleans finest restaurants and Master of Ceremonies Mark Romig. Tickets: $100/Ticket; $75/Ticket for 35 and under Location: New Orleans Downtown Marriott at the Convention Center: 859 Convention Center Blvd. Contact: 861-4500

24 Event: “Architectural & Historical Presentation” Benefits: Holy Name of Jesus Parish Event Info.: In celebration of its 125th year, the parish is hosting an architectural and historical presentation of the church and its history by Bill and Sally Reeves. Light refreshments will follow. Tickets: Free Location: Holy Name of Jesus: 6267 St. Charles Ave. Contact: 865-7430

25-28 Event: 25th annual “New Orleans Wine & Food Experience” Benefits: NOWFE Event Info.: One of the premiere culinary events in the country, attracting over 10,000 gourmands and connoisseurs as well as art and music lovers alike, NOWFE is a nonprofit with 100 percent of proceeds going to local causes that support culinary education. This year’s four-day event will showcase the culinary excellence of the New Orleans community alongside national and international wines at wine dinners, seminars, special events and the Grand Tasting. Tickets: N/A

Location: Multiple locations across the city Contact: NOWFE.com

JUNE 1

Event: “Kendra Gives Back” Benefits: Alzheimer’s Association Event Info.: Kendra Scott will donate 20 percent of proceeds to the Alzheimer’s Association Louisiana Chapter on “The Longest Day.” Tickets: Free Location: Kendra Scott: 3757 Magazine St., Suite C Contact: 613-6505

2 Event: “Opening Night Party” Benefits: The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane University Event Info.: This annual event informs people about the upcoming festival season and its educational components, including The Performance for the Schools. Tickets: $75/Ticket Location: Tulane University Lupin Hall: 16 Newcomb Blvd. Contact: 865-5105

3 Event: “Tour de Cure & Walk” Benefits: American Diabetes Association Event Info.: The American Diabetes Association’s signature fundraising event offers four routes, which enable cyclists of all levels to participate. Tickets: $25/Registration Location: Tammany Trace, Mandeville Contact: 889-0278

3-4 Event: “Parade of Homes” presented by the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans Benefits: New Orleans Education League of the Construction Industry/Jefferson Joining Forces home renovation project Event Info.: This annual event gives the public an opportunity to see inside the newest homes being built throughout the metro area. Tickets: Free Location: Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. John and St. James parishes Contact: NolaPoh.org

3 Event: “‘Let’s Go On With the Show’ 50th Anniversary Gala” Benefits: Tulane Summer Lyric Theater Event Info.: Tulane Summer Lyric Theater celebrates 50 years of artistic excellence with a retrospective gala including a VIP cocktail party and auction prior to the performance.

Tickets: $50/Performance Ticket; $250/VIP Patron Party Location: Tulane University Dixon Hall: 102 Dixon Hall Contact: 737-2377

dedicated to women’s causes. Tickets: $399/Weekend Package; Individual Tickets available Location: JW Marriott: 614 Canal St. Contact: 524-1227, FestiGals.org

3, 10, 17 & 24

Event: “JA Bowl-A-Thon” Benefits: Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans Event Info.: Employees from local companies form teams of five to raise funds, and includes complimentary drinks, food, prizes and more. Tickets: $750/Team of Five Location: Rock ‘N’ Bowl: 3016 S. Carrollton Ave. Contact: 569-8657

Event: 31st annual “Spotlight On Success” Benefits: March of Dimes Event Info.: This event pays tribute to a select group of outstanding professionals in the greater New Orleans area and includes a silent auction where patrons bid on Honoree Auction Packages designed by the honorees. Tickets: $75/Ticket; $125/Patron Party Location: Mardi Gras World: 1380 Port of New Orleans Place Contact: 264-9290

8 Event: “Dine Out for Paws” Benefits: Louisiana SPCA Event Info.: Eat lunch or dinner at one of the participating restaurants, and that restaurant will donate 20 percent of their proceeds to the Louisiana SPCA. Tickets: Varies Location: Various participating restaurants Contact: 368-5191

8 Event: “Soirée de Lumière” Benefits: Lighthouse Louisiana Event Info.: A cocktail reception in honor of the work of Lighthouse Louisiana, which has been providing jobs and services for people who are blind or who have other disabilities for the past 100 years. Tickets: $150/Ticket; $250/Couple Location: Arnaud’s: 813 Bienville Ave. Contact: 899-4501, extension 257

15 Event: “Stray Cat Strut” Benefits: Louisiana SPCA Event Info.: Music by 30X90, Some Like It Hot, Gallivan Burwell and the Predatory Drifters and Gigi; a raffle; a costume contest; and a TrapNeuter-Return demo round out this evening for the Louisiana SPCA Feral Cat Fund. Tickets: Free; Donations to Louisiana SPCA Feral Cat Fund are encouraged Location: The Maison: 508 Frenchmen St. Contact: 368-5191

22-24 Event: “FestiGals – New Orleans Women’s Weekend Experience” Benefits: FestiGals Event Info.: The “premier women’s weekend experience” offers the Women’s Leadership Conference and charitable events such as “Bodacious Bras for a Cause” and the “Stiletto Stroll.” Since its start in 2011, it has raised more than $130,000 with 100 percent of proceeds

JULY 8

Event: “Mr. Legs XVII” Benefits: Bridge House/Grace House Event Info.: This fun event features male contestants who don costumes and perform on stage to solicit funds from the crowd; whoever raises the most is crowned “Mr. Legs.” Bridge House/ Grace House provides long-term, gender-specific treatment to people in the community who have become dependent on drugs or alcohol. Tickets: $40/Presale; $50/Ticket; $75/VIP Location: Generations Hall: 310 Andrew Higgins Drive Contact: 821-7134

9 Event: “Rock, Ride & Rescue” Benefits: Louisiana SPCA Event Info.: Benefiting Louisiana SPCA’s Off-Site Adoption Team’s Special Needs Fund, The Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center, the Molly the Pony Foundation, Louisiana Boxer Rescue and Mid-City Mutt Mama’s Dog Rescue, this event will feature music by Sunpie Barnes & the Sunspots, a silent auction, raffles, a bake sale, dancing, bowling and a cash bar. Tickets: $10/Ticket in Advance Location: Rock ‘N’ Bowl: 3016 S. Carrollton Ave. Contact: 453-3048, LA-SPCA.org/RockRideRescue

27 Event: “You Night Cancer Survivor Runway Show and Celebration” Benefits: You Night Events Event Info.: Themed “British Invasion,” cancer survivors will take the runway to celebrate their lives with an audience of friends, family and medical providers. Tickets: $125/Ticket Location: Mardi Gras World’s River City Ballroom: 1380 Port of New Orleans Place Contact: 591-5936

AUGUST 19

Event: Fifth annual “Mom’s Night Out” Benefits: New Orleans Moms Blog Event Info.: Throw on your yoga pants or pajamas or bathrobe and make a night of it with plentiful food and sweet treats, spirits courtesy Sazerac, a variety of adult beverages, shopping and an evening of fun without the kids. Tickets: N/A Location: Ogden Museum of Southern Art: 925 Camp St. Contact: NewOrleansMomsBlog.com

19 Event: “101 Donations Presents ‘Bow Wow Luau’” Benefits: City Bark Event Info.: This year’s event will feature a tropical theme with music, a silent auction and specialty drinks and food with the goal of raising $60,000 for continued dog park improvements and amenities and ongoing major grounds and gate maintenance, as well as the start of an endowment and pet memorial area project. Tickets: $75/Presale Ticket; $101/Ticket; Tables available Location: Arbor Room at City Park: 30 Zachary Taylor Drive Contact: 483-9377

26 Event: Sixth annual “Senior Moments” Benefits: Jefferson Council on Aging Event Info.: An elegant affair featuring a Patron Party, live Latin jazz by Julio y Cesar and a Latin-themed celebration incorporating cuisine, décor and specialty Latin American cocktails. A full dinner will be served alongside specialty hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. The silent auction will include deluxe destination vacation packages from around the world. Tickets: $70/Ticket; $175/Patron Location: Chateau Golf & Country Club: 3600 Chateau Blvd., Kenner Contact: 207-4691

26 Event: 18th annual “CHAIRish the Children” Benefits: Louisiana Children’s Museum Event Info.: The main attraction of this festive fundraiser, from which the event took its name, is the grand display of one-of-a-kind, handpainted chairs from artists and organizations around the city. The chairs, as well as artwork, jewelry, travel packages and other exciting items, will be available for purchase during the event through live and silent auctions. There will also be food and beverages from some of New Orleans’ favorite restaurants, live entertainment and access to the museum’s exhibits. Tickets: N/A Location: Louisiana Children’s Museum Contact: 266-2415, LCM.org

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Chantel Babin with Aesthetic Surgical Associates

Summer Skin Our guide to your best look ever

By Mirella Cameran Photographed by Cheryl Gerber

“L

ive in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink wild air.” That famous quote seems to sum up all the fun we expect from the summer months, but is our skin ready for bare-skin season? Did we switch up our skincare regime when the weather changed? If you didn’t, don’t worry! Here is our guide to prepping your skin for summer and the local experts who can help you.

Stunning Summer Skin Dr. Sophia Mai of Khoobehi & Associates advises patients to focus on three goals: “To prepare your skin for the summer months, patients need to (1) ramp up sun protection (2) get our skin out of dull winter hibernation and (3) enhance our bare, but natural glow.”

“Aside from the obvious health concerns related to too much sun, sun is also aging,” Dr. Mai says. “Having adequate protection is paramount in preventing the signs of aging. Gone, however, are the days of thick, oily white sunscreens. They have really evolved. There are now tinted, cosmetically elegant options that actually feel and look good on the skin. “These days, sunscreens can do a lot more than just block UV rays,” she continues. “I look for ones that are also blended with antioxidants and peptides that can neutralize free radicals and repair damaged skin.” Dr. Mai’s favorite sun protection products include: Total Defense + Repair Broad Spectrum Sunscreen by SkinMedica (available in SPF 34, SPF 34 Tinted and SPF 50+) and Intellishade by Revision.

Note: St. Charles Avenue magazine doesn’t advocate plastic surgery except under certain conditions. Please consult your doctor before undertaking any medical procedure. stcharlesAvenue.com 61

Belladonna

Dr. Sean Weiss of Facial Plastic Surgery also favors the SkinMedica product, “This sunscreen not only protects against UVA and UVB rays, but it also protects against Infrared A rays that penetrate deeper into the skin’s surface. Its rejuvenating abilities allow the skin to restore itself.” He continues, “The product contains a series of antioxidants and special ingredients including: Green Tea Leaf extract, two forms of Vitamin E, Niacinamide, Ubiquinone, Melanin and Hydroxyacetophenone. These ingredients generate rejuvenating abilities, allowing the skin to restore itself. 91 percent of patients reported better overall skin health and appearance.” Dr. Stephen Metzinger, of Aesthetic Surgical Associates recommends sun protection from the European brand, ISDIN. The Flavo-C Ultraglican Ampoules are an all-in-one skin booster with Vitamin C and Ultraglycans to help reduce the appearance of micro wrinkles and boost natural moisture production. Users report brighter and more hydrated skin and a reduction in wrinkles and expression lines. Another product that Dr. Metzinger suggests his patients try is ISDIN’s Eryfotona Actinica. This powerful, broad-spectrum sunscreen has been shown to “decrease the risk of skin cancer.” It contains DNA Repairsones to boost the skin’s natural recovery process, and Vitamin E as an antioxidant to help protect against environmental damage. These cutting-edge ingredients are expertly formulated in an ultra light emulsion that spreads easily, absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue, so you can wear it every day.

Safe Ways to Rejuvenate Skin The second part of a good summer skin plan is evaluating your use of retinoids and getting your skin out of winter hibernation. “Retinoids are the gold standard in topical skin rejuvenation,” Dr. Mai says. “These products turn over dull, uneven and damaged skin, allowing brighter, healthier skin to come to the surface. “This exfoliation is what most patients need after a cold, dry winter but in the summer, this may not be feasible, as these products are associated with increased sensitivity to the sun.

62 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

About Face

“Once the weather starts heating up, I like to switch patients to retinoid-alternatives,” she continues. “These are much more tolerable and gentle, while still providing anti-aging benefits in the summer, when patients need it the most. Some of my favorites are: Retinol Complex 1.0 by SkinMedica and AlphaRet Overnight Cream by SkinBetter Science.”

Micro-Needling Micro-needling is my favorite all-around skin treatment for those patients who want to take it up a notch,” Dr. Mai says. “This procedure involves passing a collection of sterile needles over the skin to induce thousands of microscopic, controlled injuries. This stimulates collagen production and skin turnover. I liken it to the jack-of-all-trades when it comes to skin rejuvenation. It is quick, low maintenance, has little downtime, is safe for all skin types, and can treat anything from acne scars to wrinkles to pores to stretch marks. Best of all, it can be done safely during the summer. A series of treatments leading up to the summer can help your skin look fresh and allow you to go bare and make-up free.” At Aesthetics Surgical Associates, Dr. Stephen Metzinger uses the ‘SkinPen’ for micro needling. “The SkinPen stimulates two proteins, collagen and elastin, which are the building blocks of the skin and are responsible for skin structure and healing,” he says. The epidermis and dermis layers of the skin are therefore tightened to give a glowing and lifted appearance. “The SkinPen treatment is done in as little as 30 minutes with very little discomfort and we suggest between three and six treatments, which are done every four to six weeks.”

A Perfect Pout Dr. Mai believes that pretty, plump lips in the summer can help create that bare skin look. “Lip filler injections are accomplished by injecting synthetic hyaluronic acid, a gel-like substance of cross-linked sugar molecules naturally found in our skin. “We can do a variety of things with filler – plump, hydrate or improve the symmetry of the lips,” she says. “Best of all, it is instant and

Audubon Dermatology

immediately gratifying. Lip fillers have a bad reputation in the media but I love showing patients that a well-done lip can actually look very natural and enhance instead of distract”. Dr. Mai also tells patients about SkinMedica’s HA5 lip plump applicator that uses the same material that injectable fillers are made of, but in the form of a lip-gloss. This gloss is proven to make lips appear instantly smoother, hydrated and plumper.

Swimsuit Scares? If swimsuit season gives you cellulite scares, you could consider the ThermiSmooth Body procedure, also available at Khoobehi. It is noninvasive and uses an external applicator to apply radiofrequency energy to the skin. This heats the skin to the ideal temperature to stimulate collagen and elastin, components necessary for smoother, firmer skin. CoolSculpting is another relatively pain-free procedure with little downtime available at Audubon Dermatology and Southern Aesthetics, as well as at other practices. Dr. Penelope Treece of Southern Aesthetics, explains, “It’s like a clamp that sucks your fatty area up very tightly. As the freezing begins it does hurt, but only for a few minutes, and then you just stay still for an hour. After we ‘unhook’ you, we massage the area and you just go on with your life. The area will be sore for a while but you can exercise and there’s no girdle to wear like with liposuction. The fat cells that are treated undergo a type of cell death and are absorbed and eliminated by the body naturally. It isn’t a replacement for liposuction as it only removes 20 to 30 percent of the fat in the area and it can take up to four months to see the full results,” she says. “But if you don’t want downtime or surgery, it’s awesome.” “In spring 2014, we purchased a new attachment that straps on instead of clamping,” she adds. “This allows us to treat areas … like the front of the thighs and saddlebags.” Dr. Treece warns, “(CoolSculpting) isn’t a free pass to gobble. The fat that is destroyed is gone forever, but as there are still fat cells left alive in the treated area you can eventually gain weight there. … I strongly believe that a physician trained in liposuction, with vast experience

should evaluate and plan this procedure. I use it every day but it isn’t always the right answer.” Drs. Lisa Donofrio and Kyle Coleman of Être Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Center and Drs. Sarah Jackson and Deirdre Hooper of Audubon Dermatology are, as of press, the only dermatologists in New Orleans offering Silhouette InstaLift, one of the latest procedures in contouring and tightening faces affected by deep lines and wrinkles. “We are pleased to offer this procedure to our patients in the New Orleans area,” says Dr. Donofrio, “the Silhouette InstaLift allows our patients to experience almost instantaneous face lifting results without undergoing the major surgery that normal facelifts require.” Silhouette InstaLift is a simple, minimally invasive cosmetic technique used to improve sagging skin, sagging cheeks and deep lines on the neck, jowls and face by smoothing and tightening the skin of the face to create more youthful features. The procedure literally lifts the underlying tissue without surgery. It involves the use of a dissolving thread that’s placed under the skin that creates lift by its unique bidirectional cone design. The threads fixate the tissue and lead to increased collagen, creating long lasting lift. InstaLift is a single treatment. Depending on the amount of sagging or volume loss, more threads may be used during the procedure to create the desired outcome. The procedure only lasts about 45 minutes and, because it’s so minimally invasive, it’s performed on an outpatient-only basis using local anesthesia. Most patients return to normal activities after treatment. Swimsuit season is also the time when unwanted tattoos, easy to cover up during the winter months, become impossible to camouflage. Dr. Deirdre Hooper of Audubon Dermatology is offering a new state-of-the-art laser system for tattoo removal that reduces both the discomfort and time it takes to remove tattoos and unwanted skin discoloration. Enlighten by Cutera is the world’s first and only dual wavelength and dual pulse duration laser system. “What’s really exciting about picosecond lasers like Enlighten is that they represent the latest advancement in technology and can be used for tattoo removal, benign pigmented lesions and skin revitalization,” Dr. Hooper says. “By delivering ultra-short laser pulses, we can remove pigment in fewer treatments safely,” she continues. “In addition, picosecond pulses delver non-thermal energy. This eliminates unwanted pigment and remodels the skin resulting in a brighter, more uniform complexion on even the most challenging darker skin types. At Audubon Dermatology, we’re using picosecond lasers for Melasma and overall skin brightening.”

Reasons to Relax With all the procedures available, is it worth having facials? Do they really make a difference to your skin? Experts at Aesthetic Surgical Associates believe so and recommend their HydraFacial MD at the beginning of summer. In addition to exfoliating dead skin cells and extracting and removing impurities, this facial will replenish vital nutrients including antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. This not only gives the skin an “immediate glow,” but the antioxidants will also aid in the prevention of cellular damage caused by the sun. Jaime Shultz, Esthetician at About Face of New Orleans, offers the Four Layer Facial. “It’s perfect for the summer,” Shultz says. “People do a lot of travelling in the summer months, which can really dehydrate the skin, but in addition to providing hydration our facial soothes the skin, which helps after it has been exposed to scorching summer sun.

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Dr. Sophia Mai with Khoobehi & Associates

“The effects of the four layers makes the skin glow and allows you to wear a fresh, bare natural look,” she continues. “If you’re applying make-up, all your products will go on more smoothly and look better, too.”

Summer Beauty Arsenal Shultz also reminds her clients that changing out their winter products for some smart summer choices will go a long way in keeping their skin healthy and at its best. “Your skin needs are going to be different when the temperature and the humidity are both in the 100s. Make sure you have a gentle exfoliant in your make-up bag, such as GloTherapeutics Refresh Polish. This product will eliminate dead skin cells and help keep the pores unclogged. “You can also use a clay-based mask once a week at home,” she continues. “I would highly recommend GloTherapeutics Refining Mask or Patchology SmartMud No Mess Mud Masque. Both contain kaolin and bentonite clays, which help absorb oil, eliminate clogged pores and clear acne. The Patchology mask also contains activated charcoal, which attracts oil and dirt and literally pulls it out of the pores.”

The Glo Therapeutics line is also available at Belladonna Day Spa where estheticians like Colorescience’s tinted moisturizers with SPF 30+, which is available in four shades. Belladonna is also carrying a line that people are calling “a Southern beauty miracle:” Mississippi Miracle Clay, a brand of hydrating and nourishing products. The facial oil cleanser dissolves bacteria, dead skin, dirt and make-up, replacing it with fresh and clean plant-based oils and minerals. The all-natural alcohol-free mineral toner, which uses a gentle blend of cooling rose hydrosol, calming chamomile hydrosol, witch hazel hydrosol and alpha hydroxy, can even be kept in your purse and used as a refreshing mist on hot days. New Orleans may be one of the hottest, most humid places in the country this time of year but with all the experts and bottled expertise at our fingertips, there’s no reason to look anything less than a Southern belle.

About Face of New Orleans, 304-1556, AboutFaceNola.com; Aesthetic Surgical Associates, 226-8200, AestheticSurgical.com; Audubon Dermatology, 895-3376, AudubonDermatology.com; Belladonna Day Spa, 891-4393, BelladonnaDaySpa.com; Être Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Center, 227-3873, EtreCosmeticDerm.com; Facial Plastic Surgery, 814-3223, SeanWeissMD. com; Khoobehi & Associates, 517-7501, Khoobehi.com; Southern Aesthetics, 779-7749, PenelopeTreece.com

64 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

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v i n tag e we d d i n g

Linda Jane Knight Weds Robert Bruce Worley June 20, 1957 By Bev Church

Robert Bruce Worley had just come back from serving in the Marines in Korea and was staying at his aunt’s home in Mobile, Alabama. His aunt wanted him to attend a lovely party with his first cousin. Linda Jane Knight was invited to the same party. Bruce walked over to Linda, introduced himself, spoke to her for about five minutes and at the end of the conversation said that he was going to marry her! Linda was shocked and really didn’t see him again until they both went college in Alabama. He was a DEKE and studying to be an engineer and she was a KD and studying to be a teacher. They were reacquainted at rush parties – and that was it! Bruce asked her father for her hand in marriage when Linda was a freshman, but they had to wait until their senior year in college to get married. Linda and Bruce each had seven attendants at the wedding, held at the Dauphin Way Methodist Church at 7:30 p.m. The reception was held at the Mobile Country Club. Bruce was from Des Moines, Iowa, and his parents had the rehearsal dinner in the Jackson

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Room at The Battle House Hotel. Linda’s dress was handmade with Chantilly lace and silk taffeta with a portrait collar and cap sleeves, appliquéd with small lace flowers. Her bouquet had white orchids nestled into lilies of the valley. There were large arrangements of white peonies all over the ballroom. The cake was on an exquisite linen and cut work cloth, featuring a silver epergne filled with lilies of the valley and white roses in

the center. The three-tiered wedding cake was embossed with a duplicate of Linda’s bouquet in spun sugar. After the reception, the bride and groom were off to Miami and other points in Florida. They then resided first in Tuscaloosa and then Mobile, Alabama, and now in New Orleans. Bruce and Linda will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in June! n

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wi t h t h i s r i n g

Lohmann – Barone By Mirella Cameran

When Margaret Kristin Lohmann and

John Besh –complete with raw bar – a candy table by Graceful Events – no surprise, since everyone knows Margaret is a candy-holic – and a photo booth by Boogie Booth. The surprise of the night was when the band stopped playing and the Grand Marshall from Kinfolk Brass Band second-lined the guests six blocks down Canal Street to the Ritz-Carlton, where the party continued. The newly married couple left for a two-week honeymoon in Europe where

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Amsale, Wedding Belles Groom’s and Groomsmen’s Attire: The Black Tux Florist: Meade Wenzel Invitations: Betty Hunley Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake: The Royal Cakery Photographer: Greer Gattuso Makeup: Katie Malone Hair: Jen Thiele

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they visited Paris, Barcelona and Tenerife. They returned home to New Orleans, where Margaret is a Senior Marketing Associate at Capital One and Tom works as a financial services professional for New York Life. n ABOVE: The Bride and Groom OPPOSITE PAGE TOP: (Back Row) Porter Carrere, Kevin Cummings, Matthew Gnall, Ryan Caylor, Patrick Olivieri, Michael Rooney, Bradley Keating, Carl Kraus, Douglas Barone, John McWhorter, Dustin Scarpa, James Cifelli, Jason Bigelow, Michael Seufer, Giancarlo Capodanno, Jonathan Forges (Front Row) Samantha Hinckley, Elizabeth Keating, Alycia Swayze, Mia Jahncke, Caitlin Carrere, Paige Bigelow, Jennifer Lohmann- Bigelow, Evie Bigelow, Margaret Barone, Thomas J. Barone, Jay Bigelow, Katherine de Filippis, Lindsay Diamond, Mary Cifelli, Ashley Barraza, Tara Lang and Ashley Barriere

Photos by Gre er Gattuso

Thomas James Barone met at the Columns Hotel in the fall of 2007, little did they know that they would be marrying each other right across the street at the church Margaret grew up in nine years later. In the coming months, while Margaret and Tom were attending college at Tulane University, they frequented Tulane football games, crawfish boils and enjoyed having dinner with friends. After graduation they became inseparable and both began working at Margaret’s alma mater, Isidore Newman School. A few years later they moved to New York City, where Tom’s parents live, until Margaret landed her dream job working at Capital One in New Orleans. Tom soon joined her. In August 2015, under the guise of Sunday brunch with Margaret’s parents, she drove to her parents’ house on Henry Clay Avenue, where she grew up, and Tom was waiting at the front gate. As they proceeded up the front walk, Tom dropped to one knee and popped the question. Margaret’s excitement and surprise was forever captured on a GoPro that her family had strategically placed in the bushes. The newly engaged couple’s families and friends were all inside watching the proposal from the windows. When Margaret and Tom came through the door everyone yelled “Surprise!” and the celebration began. On October 8, 2016, at Rayne Memorial Methodist Church Reverend Max Zehner and Reverend James Keenan, S.J. married Margaret and Tom. Margaret walked down the aisle in a Ramona Keveza gown purchased from Wedding Belles. After the ceremony, the bride and groom led their guests to Latrobe’s on Royal Street for the reception. Everyone danced to the music of The Mixed Nuts, while enjoying the delicious food from

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YO U NG B LO O DS

Daniel Johnson Founder Greeman Dan By Lindsay Mack

Water drainage has been a problem

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pipe or trench, can also quickly divert rainwater away from a property’s surface. These are just a few of the many solutions Greenman Dan can build and maintain in the New Orleans area. Johnson and his team have created beautiful, functional drainage solutions for a variety of clients, from homeowners to the City of New Orleans itself. This success has garnered national attention for the company, and Johnson has become something of a go-to speaker in the world of stormwater management and green infrastructure. Furthermore, the company is dedicated to continually providing new, progressive landscape services for homeowners and businesses alike. In addition to his work with Greenman Dan, Johnson is also dedicated to helping nonprofits, such as Louisiana Green Corps and Home by Hand, spread the news about green infrastructure. He enjoys sharing

industry knowledge with students who may one day enter the field. “There is a demand for knowledgeable green-collar workers on the horizon and I would like to help our industry be ready for it,” he says. Thanks to the innovations of Johnson and the rest of his team, New Orleanians have a greener way to deal with the age-old drainage problem. Less water is diverted into storm drains, and the city’s pumps don’t have to process quite as many gallons. Overall, the people of Greenman Dan are dedicated to providing New Orleans with innovative, sustainable and creative landscaping solutions. n

Get Involved For more information, call 669-5293, visit GreemanDan.com, email info@greenmandan.com or find him on Facebook @Greeman-Dan.

photo by che ryl gerber

in New Orleans since the city’s formation. For the past several years, homeowners have coped with excess rainfall via underground pipes that exit at street level. As anyone who has driven in the city can attest, this solution is less than ideal. But thanks to the arrival of an innovative landscape design team, New Orleanians may finally have a solution the drainage problem. To learn more, I spoke with Daniel Johnson, founder of Greenman Dan. A full-service landscape company, Greenman Dan specializes in designs that capture and absorb a property’s rainfall, lessening the overall runoff into city streets. Sometimes the water is directed to a street-side rain garden, allowing Louisiana iris and other water-loving plants to flourish. Diverting the water into a landscape irrigation system is another option, as well as the use of sump pumps or bioswales. French drains, which make use of an underground

s t u d e n t ac t i v i s t

Julia Michelle Reggio St. Martin’s Episcopal School By Mallory Lindsly

72 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

photo by cheryl gerber

cancer treatment in New Orleans,” she says. Another event that Reggio patriciates in is Gleason Gras. She recruits students from varying high school grades to volunteer. Getting other teenagers involved in such an important event allows Reggio spread her activism. “Through volunteering I get to meet people diagnosed with the disease and talk to them about their struggles. Meeting ALS patients allows me to put a Julia Michelle Reggio, a face to the cause, and helps me senior at St. Martin’s Episcopal understand what an impact that School, says, “I think it’s I’m having on my community,” important to be active in your she says. community because it promotes Greg Reggio, Reggio’s father, a more open and inviting has been inspiring her to become environment for others to reach an activist for as long as she can out and use your actions as a remember. Beginning when she template for theirs.” was five, her father brought her Reggio has been a part of to various charity events and she many organizations throughout helped him serve. her years at St. Martin’s. She “Although I may have not served on student council for understood how serving people four years and is the student free food made a difference body president for her senior back then, I now know that year. Through this past year she the smallest donation or act of has been able to hold fundraisers kindness for people in need to aid the victims of Louisiana makes a world of difference in flooding, run a leadership summit their eyes,” she says. to endorse a student led high Reggio plans to attend UT school and spread school spirit Austin to study pre-veterinary around the campus. courses, while also studying Her most rewarding volunteer nonprofits and entrepreneurship. experience is working with After college, she hopes that she Hope Lodge, an organization can take a year off and join the that helps financially struggling Peace Corps or find a way to cancer patients. serve her community at home. “I am so happy to be part of a After she’s settled in her career, completely free of charge ‘home she hopes to get enough funding away from home’ for people in to create a nonprofit organizaneed of a place to stay and gentle, tion geared towards the benefit of loving care while undergoing animals and their welfare. n

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s h o p ta lk

Aron & Misti Medders Owners, Bayou Throws By Mirella Cameran

Tell us why you set up Bayou Throws? Aron: After starting out making beads for ourselves to throw, we saw an opportunity to produce a reasonably priced, locally made bead that people would actually want to catch and wear. Nowadays, people duck out of the way when you throw the standard metallic beads. What makes you different? Misti: All our throws are made in the USA and are 100 percent recyclable. Our beads are made at a manufacturing plant in New Jersey, and we string them in the New Orleans metro area employing local people. Are the beads really recyclable? Misti: Yes, you can repurpose them or put them directly in a city recycling bin. Which krewes have your throws? Aron: The Krewe of King Arthur is our biggest customer with over 600 dozen in the parade last year. We also supplied several other krewes and we’re already working on ideas for 2018.

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Do you sell throws all year round? Aron: Yes, people also love throws for birthday parties, weddings, fundraisers and other events. Which throws are your favorites? Misti: Our Bryant’s Puzzle beads hold a special place for us. Our son is severely autistic so we made these in his honor. We donate a portion of the proceeds to local autism charities, including The Chartwell Center where he attends school and The Autism Society of Greater New Orleans. Do you have any new designs coming out that you are excited about? Aron: We’re working on offering custom logos and designs at reasonable prices. n Bayou Throws 459-9553 BayouThrows.com

s h o p ta lk

Katie Winters Shlosman & Shawn Haddad Owners, Oak New Orleans By Mirella Cameran

Why did you set up Oak? Katie: Shawn and I drank too many French 75s one night at Patois and decided to open a bar. I am a lawyer and she’s a full time mom of four kids, so we juggle responsibilities and make it work. What makes Oak different in the busy New Orleans bar scene? Shawn: I think it’s the only bar designed and run by two women.

photo by Je ffery J oh nston

What’s the food like? Shawn: Small plates that provide good food at reasonable prices. Will you open any more Oaks? Katie: We opened Ale next door with my brother, Patrick Winters. I have a 13 month old and another baby due in July, so no plans for any more bars. I would like to be able to have a drink at this point! Who is Oak for? Shawn: It’s designed for everyone and anyone to enjoy. I love the nights when I go in and the bar is filled with all ages and races.

What are the most popular drinks/eats? Shawn: People love our 8118 Cocktail of vodka, lime juice and basil, and our wine selection. As far as food goes, the shrimp tacos, hanger steaks and fried Brussels sprouts with pancetta are definitely some of the favorites. How do you choose your musicians? Katie: I book the musicians solely based on the music I like to hear and the musicians I like to deal with. We have worked with a lot of the same musicians since opening. They are family to us. Is there anything coming up you’d like to tell us about? Shawn: We have free wine tastings on Thursday and half-off bottles of wine on Wednesdays. n

Oak New Orleans 8118 Oak St. 302-1485 OakNola.com

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s n a p s h ot s By Marie Simoneaux 1

1. Local stylists and fashion consultants Aimee Gowland of ALG Style, Legacy Donor Foundation Board Chairman Casey Pellerin Westguard and Corrie Pellerin of ALG Style attend the “Fall in Love Luncheon,” hosted by the Legacy Donor Foundation. The event raised thousands of dollars through silent auction and ticket sales, as well as generous donations. 2. Event Chair Heidi Saporito poses with Annie Heumann and Stephanie Heumann at the Legacy Donor Foundation’s “Fall in Love Luncheon,” held at Metairie Country Club in October. The foundation works to create awareness and education programs about organ, eye and tissue donation. 3. Roots of Music Executive Director Anne Messner, Kirk Coco, Morgan Stewart, Sophie Gavin and Roots of Music Board Chair Trey Monaghan celebrate at the “Band Together for Roots” Roots of Music event on October 22, 2016. Held at the Ashé Power House, the evening featured live performances by The Revivalists and Roots of Music Marching Crusaders. 4. Elexa Ruth, Shoan Ruffin and Tanya Bowsell pose with Roots Crusader D’Shoan Ruffin at “Band Together for Roots.” The event raised funds to support Roots of Music’s mission to teach, support and empower New Orleans’ youth through music education, academic support and mentorship. 5. Morris and Cathy Bart share a smile with Sandra and Jerome Kanter and a friend at the Jewish Community Center’s Fundraising Celebration, “Pop the Cork: Celebrating 50 Years on the Avenue.” The event was held at the Audubon Tea Room and featured live music by The Preservation Hall All-Stars Band. 6. Kenny Miestchovich, Lisa Lupin, Anamaria Villamarin-Lupin and Tim Lupin attend “Pop the Cork,” the 2016 Jewish Community Center Celebration. Over 200 supporters celebrated 50 years of the JCC on St. Charles Avenue. 76 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

s n a p s h ot s By Marie Simoneaux 7

7. CEO of Bridge House/Grace House Else Pedersen and Senior Vice President of Fidelity Bank Tammy O’Shea are pictured at an “Impact 100 Happy Hour.” Impact 100 is a women’s giving circle administered by the Greater New Orleans Foundation. 8. Carmen Duncan, Lulu Freiberg and Kelly Duncan attend the “Impact 100 Happy Hour,” held at the house of Lulu Freiberg. This year, the $100,000 Impact 100 Grant was awarded to Louisiana Center for Children’s rights, which represents children being prosecuted in the justice system, defending their rights and fighting for their legal and life success. 9. Louisiana Landmark President Sandra Stokes, Vice President Jim Logan and Rise Ochsner enjoyed their wine at the Louisiana Landmarks Society’s fall membership social, “Vino on the Bayou,” held at the Pitot House in November 2016.

78 st. charles Avenue APRIL 2017

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s n a p s h ot s By Marie Simoneaux

10. Louisiana Landmarks Society Recording Secretary Hilary Somerville Irvin, Treasurer Louis McFaul and Pitot House Docent Karen Synder are pictured at “Vino on the Bayou” for the Louisiana Landmark Society. The evening included French wines, appetizers from Bayou Wine Garden and entertainment by guitarist Phil DeGruy. 11. Chefs Donald Link, Emeril Lagasse and Stephen Stryjewski pose together at the 2016 “Boudin, Bourbon & Beer.” The annual event was held at Champion Square and was attended by almost 5,000 guests who enjoyed Abita Beer, bourbon cocktails from Buffalo Trace, live music and samplings of boudin-inspired dishes from over 60 award-winning chefs. 12. Julie Breeden and Bill Goldring celebrate the 12th annual “Boudin, Bourbon & Beer” event, presented by the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, which supports eight organizations that support culinary and arts education programs, as well as youth literacy, enrichment and outreach initiatives. 80 st. charles Avenue APRIL 2017

ADVERTISING SECTION

Carrollton Riverbend

Positive Family Solutions

Lambeth House

7100 St. Charles Ave., Suite 224 (504) 339-4938 PositiveFamilySolution.net

150 Broadway St. (504) 865-1960 LambethHouse.com

Positive Family Solutions is the private practice of New Orleans native Gerard Woodrich, LCSW, who specializes in disruptive behaviors, developmental disabilities, sexual trauma, depression and anxiety, and has been trained in evidence-based interventions including CBT Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy and Play Therapy. Positive Family Solutions offers affordable and accessible counseling with flexible appointment scheduling and a sliding fee scale when necessary.

Nestled at Broadway at the river is Lambeth House, New Orleans’ leading retirement community. Amenities focus on choice and flexibility with healthy, active living at the forefront. Lambeth House has beautiful, elegant living and common spaces, many with spectacular views of the river and Audubon Park. Lambeth House has a Wellness Center that features a stunning indoor pool, fitness center, art studio, meditation room and all that one would need to ensure both physical and spiritual wellness. It is luxury retirement living at its best. Fitness Center memberships are available to nonresidents age 55 and older, and Lambeth House’s Wild Azalea Café is open to the public for breakfast and lunch Tuesday-Saturday.

Friend and Company Fine Jewelers 7713 Maple St. (504) 866-5433 FriendAndCompany.com Friend and Company Fine Jewelers offers the complete bridal experience from rings to registry.

82 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

ADVERTISING SECTION

8616 Oak Condominiums

Eclectic Home

8616 Oak St. (504) 862-0100 8616OAK.com

8211 Oak St. (504) 866-6654 EclecticHome.net @EclecticHomeNola

8616 Oak Condominiums is a brand-new, move-in ready condominium complex located on historic Oak Street in Uptown New Orleans. The four-story mixed-use property includes secure parking, storage units, an on-site gym and 21 residential condos. All condominiums come equipped with wood flooring, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and balconies. A short drive to Oschner Hospital and Tulane and Loyola universities, the new development offers modern conveniences within walking distance to the shops, restaurants and night life of the Oak Street Commercial Corridor.

At Eclectic Home, they believe good design looks as though it evolved over time and should have a collection of furnishings that represent a cohesive design. With thousands of resources both domestically and abroad, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re able to help their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; environments represent who they truly are. Come find the best in upholstery, furniture, lamps, lighting, accessories, rugs and so much more.

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pe rf o r m i n g a r t s

May by Fritz Esker

Through June 28 The Vic-Tones

Watch this dynamic male vocal trio sing 1940s standards like “Chatanooga Choo Choo” and “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans” every Wednesday through June. The Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St., 528-1943, NationalWW2Museum.org 3 Pixies

A STUNNING COLLECTION OF 50 TRADITIONAL (AND SOME NON-TRADITIONAL) LOUISIANA RECIPES. AN ABSOLUTE MUST HAVE FOR YOUR KITCHEN, OR THE PERFECT GIFT FOR A LOUISIANA FOOD LOVER.

$16.95

The groundbreaking alt-rock band hits New Orleans as part of a five-week tour across North America. The Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., 525-1052, SaengerNOLA.com 4 The Revivalists

The seven-piece New Orleans roots-driven rock band puts on a high-octane live show full of instrumental virtuosity and charismatic vocals. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 247-4870, OrpheumNOLA.com 5-21 Bye Bye Birdie

Inspired by the story of Elvis Presley receiving his draft notice into the Army in 1957, this hit musical has spawned sequels, revivals, films and a TV production. Rivertown Theater, 325 Minor St., 461-9475, RivertownTheaters. com 5

TO ORDER VISIT

WWOZ Presents Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe Presents Exile on Bourbon Street

Now in its second printing!

Karl Denson, now a touring saxophonist with The Rolling Stones, returns to his main project, the Tiny Universe, for a Cinco de Mayo show. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 247-4870, OrpheumNOLA.com

LOUISIANACOOKBOOK.COM

5-June 25 Ain’t Misbehavin’

The Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and ’30s comes to

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life with this musical revue featuring memorable songs like “This Joint Is Jumpin’” and “Honeysuckle Rose.” The Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St., 528-1943, NationalWW2Museum.org 6 Galactic with The Infamous

Cool off from a hot day at Jazz Fest with New Orleans’ own Galactic, a funk and jazz jam band. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 247-4870, OrpheumNOLA.com 9-14 Finding Neverland

This musical adaptation of the 2004 hit film tells the magical story of how playwright J.M. Barrie created the character of Peter Pan. The Saenger Theater, 1111 Canal St., 525-1052, SaengerNOLA.com 10-28 The Spider Queen

An adventurous teenage girl and a squeamish park ranger team up for scavenger hunt and discover a strange kingdom with fantastic creatures and villains. NOMA’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden, City Park, 302-9117, NOLAProject.com 11 Fidelity’s Concerts in the Park: Swing in the Park

The LPO’s celebration of musical favorites from the past and present comes to Lafreniere Park in Metairie. Bring your own chairs and refreshments! Lafreniere Park, Metairie, 523-6530, LPOMusic.com 13 Jessica Lang Dance

Jessica Lang’s technically stunning dancers rivet audiences with spellbinding, artfully crafted works. This performance will honor veterans and those touched by the aftermath of war. Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts,

1419 Basin St., 525-1052, MahaliaJacksonTheater.com 17 Debauchery!

New Orleans’ live, ongoing soap opera enters its seventh season as sisters Chanel and Cartier continue their outrageous adventures. The Theatre at St. Claude, 2240 St. Claude Ave., 522-6545, SouthernRep.com 18 Pepe Romero and The Three Cornered Hat

Superstar guitarist Pepe Romero performs exuberant music from the popular ballet, The Three Cornered Hat. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 247-4870, OrpheumNOLA.com 19 The Victory Belles

These delightful ladies serenade audiences with the music of the 1940s, including gems of the World War II era as well as patriotic classics saluting each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Stage Door Canteen, 945 Magazine St., 528-1943, NationalWW2Museum.org 27 Trey Songz Presents: Tremaine the Tour

New Orleans is part of a 20-date tour for hip hop star Trey Songz promoting his new work, Tremaine the Album. Orpheum Theater, 129 Roosevelt Way, 247-4870, OrpheumNOLA.com 31-June 25 Father Comes Home From the Wars (Parts 1, 2, & 3)

A young man in 1863 is promised his freedom from slavery if he fights for the Confederate side. What he finds on the battlefield will change him forever. Loyola University Marquette Theater, 6363 St. Charles Ave., 522-6545, SouthernRep.com

PUBLISHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office at 1-800-273-5718.

86 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

P r e mi e r

Properties ELEANOR FARNSWORTH Top Residential Producer CRS, GRI, BRC, HRS

Office: (504) 891-1142 Cell: (504) 669-0211

www.EleanorFarnsworth.com 5631 St. Charles Avenue..........SOLD...................$6,185,000 4717 St Charles Avenue...........SOLD...................$6,000,000 1004 Falcon Road.....................SOLD...................$5,600,000 3 Audubon Place ......................SOLD...................$5,250,000 28 Audubon Place....................................................$5,200,000 1649 Joseph Street...................................................$4,900,000 16 Audubon Place ....................SOLD...................$4,500,000 1512 Lakeshore Blvd, Slidell..................................$4,500,000 295 Walnut Street .....................SOLD...................$3,990,000 8 La Salle Place .........................SOLD...................$3,650,000 4831 St. Charles Avenue..........SOLD...................$3,000,000 525 Madison Street ..................SOLD...................$2,800,000 8 Rosa Park................................SOLD....................$2,490,000 1527 Sixth Street.......................SOLD...................$2,385,000 1776 State Street .......................SOLD...................$2,300,000 3 Poydras Street #9E/F ..............SOLD...................$2,300,000 6257 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge......SOLD .......$2,200,000 906 S. New Hampshire Avenue.........SOLD .......$2,199,000 2503 St Charles Avenue .........SOLD...................$2,195,000 1938 State Street.......................SOLD....................$1,895,000 841 Barracks Street ..................SOLD...................$1,850,000 1427 Eighth Street ...................SOLD...................$1,850,000 7 Rosa Park................................SOLD...................$1,800,000 1518 First Street .......................SOLD...................$1,750,000 15370 LA HWY 10 HY, St Francisville...............$1,700,000 1328 Felicity Street ...................SOLD...................$1,700,000 1538 Fourth Street ...................SOLD...................$1,700,000 1415 Cadiz Street ....................SOLD...................$1,700,000 1800 Jefferson Avenue.............SOLD...................$1,700,000 2600 Gay Lynn Drive .............................................$1,650,000 1732-34 Palmer Avenue............SOLD...................$1,650,000 2708 Coliseum Street ...............SOLD...................$1,625,000 19 Richmond Place ..................SOLD...................$1,575,000 1233 Second Street...................SOLD...................$1,600,000 576 Audubon Street .................SOLD...................$1,595,000 6015 Prytania Street ................SOLD....................$1,497,500 4613 St. Charles Avenue..........SOLD...................$1,495,000 2707 Coliseum Street ...............SOLD...................$1,490,000 2507 Prytania Street .................SOLD...................$1,490,000 6433 Paris Avenue ....................SOLD...................$1,450,000

1542 Calhoun Street ................SOLD...................$1,450,000 1641 State Street.......................SOLD...................$1,425,000 5726 St. Charles Avenue...........SOLD...................$1,400,000 1205 Philip Street ......................SOLD...................$1,399,000 1203 Marengo Street.....UNDER CONTRACT....$1,390,000 4917 St. Charles Avenue...........SOLD...................$1,370,000 1413 Philip Street .....................SOLD...................$1,370,000 447 Audubon Street ................ SOLD ..................$1,300,000 9 Blanc Place .............................SOLD...................$1,300,000 1578 Calhoun Street ................SOLD...................$1,300,000 1137 State Street ......................SOLD...................$1,295,000 622 Barracks Street ..................................................$1,250,000 6502 Woodwards Bluff, Long Beach, MS............$1,275,000 434 Lakeshore Parkway ...........SOLD...................$1,275,000 1207 State Street .......................SOLD...................$1,250,000 234 Brockenbraugh Ct, Metairie......SOLD .........$1,235,000 571 Audubon Street .................SOLD...................$1,220,000 1539 Soniat Street ....................SOLD...................$1,220,000 6554 Oakland Drive.................SOLD...................$1,200,000 441 Audubon Street .................SOLD...................$1,199,000 1410 Philip Street ....................................................$1,100,000 2006 Jefferson Avenue.............SOLD...................$1,100,000 17 Chateau Palmer ...................SOLD...................$1,085,000 1701 Valence Street ..................SOLD...................$1,075,000 1919 State Street .......................SOLD...................$1,050,000 1221 First Street .......................SOLD...................$1,050,000 1221 Exposition Blvd ..............SOLD...................$1,045,000 3225 Prytania Street .................SOLD...................$1,000,000 1844 State Street .......................SOLD......................$995,000 1022 Webster Street .................SOLD......................$995,000 71607 Riverside Dr., Covington...............................$990,000 3447 Camp Street .....................SOLD......................$985,000 45 Savannah Ridge Ln .............SOLD......................$950,000 1543 Henry Clay Avenue.............SOLD......................$950,000 18 Darby Court...........................................................$879,000 21431 Bobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, Long Beach, MS .......................$850,000 203 Sycamore Drive, Metairie...................................$807,000 6864 Vicksburg Street..............SOLD......................$697,000 5421 St Charles Avenue #1B.....................................$450,000 1560 Henry Clay Avenue................................$15,000/month

stcharlesAvenue.com 87

n o s ta lg i a

Classically Celluloid The Coliseum Theater By Seale Paterson

Theater (sometimes appearing as “Theatre”) appeared in late 1913. The constantly rotating feature films and serials, as well as Sunday matinees, made it a popular addition to the neighborhood. In the 1920s, the theater also held various events, including a Charleston dancing contest and a baby popularity contest. In the ’30s, they started a popular amateur night featuring singers, dancers, comedians, novelty acts and “what have you.” Renovations in 1925 and ’36 modernized the theater, but the ’50 renovation changed the theater the most: All interior furnishings – seats, display cases and even the popcorn warmer – were sold and replaced with nicer versions; the seating capacity was enlarged with the addition of a balcony; air conditioning was added; and a soundproof 88 st. charles Avenue MAY 2017

“crying room” was created for mothers and their younger children. Throughout these renovations and future ones, the art deco light fixtures and features remained untouched. The Lazarus family owned and operated the theater from 1919 until the early ’60s, when United Theaters took over. When they announced they were going to close it, Al Viola leased it. Against all odds, he kept the Coliseum open until ’76, still offering double features for 75-cents for adults and 35-cents for kids – the lowest prices in the city. His secrets to success: keep expenses to a minimum, and be so friendly and accommodating that people will drive across town just to say hi and see a movie at your theater. The theater was offered for sale in mid-1975, and on April 20, ’76, it showed its last double feature: Planet of the Apes

and Navy Vs. the Night Monsters, with a Mr. Magoo cartoon between. After the theater closed, the building was renovated into film and recording studios. The original façade and marquee, restored during those renovations, were damaged during Katrina. Just as those renovations were finishing, a fire destroyed the theater in February 2006. n

The Coliseum Theatre c. 1941. A 1925 renovation and expansion utilized a contractor’s ingenuity: The theater remained open while a larger building was constructed around it. A “Typhoon Cooling System” (air blown over ice to cool it) and other modern conveniences were installed, and after a few days of closure to finalize things, the theater reopened by hosting a live wedding, followed by the film The Scarlet Honeymoon. Admission was 20-cents for adults and 10-cents for children.

Image provided courtesy of: The Charles L. Franck Studio Collection at Th e Hist ori c N ew Orleans C olle ct ion, 1979.325.5853 / Coliseum Theatre

The first newspaper ads for the Coliseum