St. Charles Avenue Magazine May 2022

ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAGAZINE

MAY 2022

OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART’S MAGNOLIA BALL

LOCAL LUNCH HOT SPOTS

REGISTRY OF CHARITABLE EVENTS: MAY-JULY 2022

C o n te n t s VOLUME 26 ISSUE 10

38

Features Getting Back to Lunch Exciting new menu suggestions and locales around town 38 Registry of Charitable Events Our quarterly lisitng of nonprofit area events from May-July 2022 45

Read more about lunch at Elizabeth Street Cafe starting on page 38

In Every Issue Andy's Note A letter from Editor Andy Myer 8 What's New on the Web stcharlesavenue.com 10 Arts Calendar 12

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

3

C o n te n t s

16 Society Along the Avenue Spring's Bounty 22

50

Philanthropic Faces Natalie Jayroe, President & CEO, Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans & Acadiana 24 Philanthropic Events Home for the Holidays benefiting NOCCA Foundation 26 Philanthropic Events Elenian Tea Honoring the Debutantes and Ladies in Waiting benefiting The Elenian Club 28 Philanthropic Events Signature Chefs Auction benefiting The March of Dimes 30 Philanthropic Events Holiday Home Tour Patron Party benefiting Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans 32 Philanthropic Events Under the Stars: 20th Anniversary Celebration benefiting Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO) 34 Snapshots Quick looks at nonprofit events around town 36

4 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

Celebration

Style

How to Host Mother's Day 50

What's Hot Children's Chic 14

With This Ring Kullman-Johnson 52

Designer Spotlight Alex Geriner, Owner and Designer, Doorman 16

Looking Back May Day Celebrations 54 Finishing Touches Glow Up 64

Changemakers Kristi Trail, Executive Director, Pontchartrain Conservancy 20

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

5

Associate Publisher Kate Henry EDITORIAL

Editor Andy Myer Art Director Ali Sullivan Food & Dining Columnist Jyl Benson Web Editor Kelly Massicot Event Photo Coordinator Jeff Strout ADVERTISING

Vice President of Sales & Marketing Kate Henry Kate@myneworleans.com or 504-830-7216 Account Director Meggie Schmidt Senior Account Executive Rachel Webber Senior Account Executive Brooke Genusa Account Executive Erin Chiartano Advertising Consultant Penn Iarocci

MARKETING

Coordinator Abbie Whatley PRODUCTION

Manager Rosa Balaguer Arostegui Designer Meghan Rooney CIRCULATION

Subscriptions Jessica Armand Distribution John Holzer ADMINISTRATION

Office Manager Mallary Wolfe Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne For subscription information call (504) 828-1380

A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 MyNewOrleans.com St. Charles Avenue is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005, (504) 828-1380. Subscription rate: one year $17.95, no foreign subscriptions. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to St. Charles Avenue, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright © 2022 by Renaissance Publishing, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The trademark St, Charles Avenue is registered. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in St. Charles Avenue are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.

O n T h e C ove r

VOLUME 26 ISSUE 10

On the Cover Ogden Museum of Southern Art will celebrate the exhibition Luis Cruz Azaceta: What a Wonderful World at this year’s annual Magnolia Ball on Saturday, June 11. Funds raised from Magnolia Ball directly support Ogden Museum’s educational mission, to create innovative programs designed to bring art and people together in order to explore the rich and varied cultural identities of the South.

Recognized for a broad range of educational programming, Ogden Museum’s Education Outreach program offers the New Orleans community a wide variety of unique arts experiences and presents award-winning arts education opportunities to the area’s underserved schools. Through support, Ogden Museum is proud to offer eight key educational outreach programs: Early Childhood Curriculum, Artist & Sense of Place Residency Program, Day with an Artist, Teen Internship and Historically Black College & Universities (HBCU) Internship, Museum Tours and Activities Program, Free Family Days, Teacher Nights, Workshops and Resources and the Volunteer Docent Program.

In addition to the museum’s quality educational programs for children, the museum also conducts educational and outreach programming for adults such as art making workshops, film screenings and panel discussions.

Pictured from left: Jason Richards, John Isiah Walton, Nathalie Simon and Jennie Cannon West Photo by Jeffery Johnston

Event Chairs: Wendell Brunious, Nathalie Simon, John Isiah Walton, Jennie Cannon West and Jason Richards Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s Magnolia Ball highlights include: Patron Hour - 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Event - 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Magnolia Ball is a festive summer evening featuring live music, DJs, entertainers, an extensive silent auction, delicious food from local restaurants, cocktails and more! The silent auction, open to Magnolia Ball attendees and available to all for bidding online, features art and packages from regional artists and businesses.

Bidding will open Friday, June 3 at 6 p.m. and all items will be on display at Ogden Museum.

Purchasing an item from Magnolia Ball’s silent auction not only supports Ogden Museum, but also the silent auction artists and businesses who receive a percentage of the sale.

To purchase tickets to Magnolia Ball and to view the silent auction, please visit ogdenmuseum.org/magnoliaball/.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

7

Let te r f ro m t h e Ed i to r

A Note from Andy Busy Bees

The streets are buzzing, and we’ve all got a touch of spring fever. Be it hay fever or seasonal excitement, we’re ready for all that the end of spring and beginning of summer bring. Be sure to check out our quarterly “Registry of Charitable Events: May-July 2022” for information on local nonprofit fundraisers. If you were not able to send us your event in time for the print listing, we are happy to add it online.

Please send an email with event details to andy@myneworleans.com or submit via our website myneworleans.com through our online submission form.

Our May issue is chock-full of useful information for planning your busy social calendars. In this month’s dining feature Jyl Benson highlights exciting new menu options and locales for lunch around town. “What’s Hot” focuses on charming children’s clothing and accessories. We take time to celebrate mothers on May 8. “How to Host” details tips for throwing a lovely late-spring fete honoring the important mother or mother figure in your life.

“Philanthropic Faces” features Natalie Jayroe, president and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank. Learn more about Second Harvest’s work leading the fight against hunger in South Louisiana by providing food access, advocacy, education and disaster response. Second Harvest offers food and support to an astounding 700-plus community partners and programs across 23 parishes.

Our May “Changemaker” is Kristi Trail, executive director of Pontchartrain Conservancy, an organization working diligently to help residents understand the value of stewardship of the coastal areas in South Louisiana.

We’re always looking for updates regarding shop openings and local business news. Be sure to send any related information to shoptalk@myneworleans.com and check out our Shop Talk profiles on the website and on Instagram @stcharlesavenuemag.

We hope you continue to enjoy one of New Orleans’ finest seasons!

Cheers,

8 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

O n T he We b

NEW

On StCharlesAvenue.com Shop Talk Blog

“

Most children yearn for the month of May. Why wouldn’t they?

It marks the beginning of the end of another school year and of course the dawn of summer! There is palpable excitement about upcoming camps, sleepovers and family vacations swirling around in those last wisps of waning breeze. For the grown-ups it’s a bit different. It’s a time to get all the ducks in a row for the imminent changes in (and sometimes complete abandonment of) routine. It is also the oft dreaded time to visit the old bathing suit bin and begrudgingly start showing a bit more skin. In Shop Talk this month we will connect with local shop owners and explore topics like failproof summer outfits for kids, swimsuits for adults that promise coverage in the right places and of course the crucial importance of sun protection.

Look for all of this and more every Wednesday in the St. Charles Avenue newsletter and catch Shop Talk live every Friday on our Instagram @stcharlesavenuemag at lunchtime!

What local finds should we feature next? Email shoptalk@myneworleans.com.

Online Extras • Nonprofit Events Calendar Continually updated with the latest information on when fundraisers are happening around town.

10 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

+

Follow us on Instagram @StCharlesAvenueMag and Facebook @StCharlesAvenue

A r t s C a l e n da r

May 17

N OW T H R O U G H J U LY

Queen Nefertari's Egypt Exhibit, New Orleans

Museum of Art, One Collins C. Dibolll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org

8

N OW T H R O U G H M AY

2022 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Fair

Grounds Race Course & Slots, 504-943-2200, nojazzfest.com

1

Wartime Piano Happy Hour, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org

1

Breakfest Week 1, The Broadside, 600 North Broad Street, 504-2181008, broadsidenola.com

5

Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe A Diesel Insane. The music of David Bowie, Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal St., 504-8811555, @thefilmorenola

6

Allman Betts + Tab Benoit + Samantha Fish, Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal St., 504-881-1555, @thefilmorenola

7

The Last Waltz, Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com

7

Poppa Funk & The Night Tripper & Trouble No More, Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal St., 504-8811555, @thefilmorenola

8

2-4 NOLA Crawfish Festival Ft. NCF Allstars, Tony Hall Band, and Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, The Broadside, 600 North Broad Street, 504-218-1008, broadsidenola.com

Cocktails and WWII--’Dry: A Prohibition Cabaret’ The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org

17-22

10-21

Mean Girls, Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 504-525-1052, saengernola.com

The Mediterranean Campaign, The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., 504-528-1944, nationalww2museum.org

14-15

12

Ogden Museum Meditation, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., 504-5399650, ogdenmuseum.org

13-15 the dance floor, the hospital room, and the kitchen table, Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 504-528-3805, cacno.org

12 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

NOBA presents American Ballet Theatre’s Don Quixote, Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts, 1419 Basin St, 504-525-1052

18

Nothing More + Asking Alexandria USA Tour 2022, Fillmore New Orleans, 6 Canal St., 504-881-1555, @thefilmorenola

22

Family Festival: The Mighty Mississippi, New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org

27

Virtual Book Club Discussion: Enrique Alférez, New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org

27-29 The Wait Room, Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 504-528-3805, cacno.org

June

14

Artful Palate with Café NOMA, New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-6584100, noma.org

24

Virtual Book Club Discussion: Optic Nerve, New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 504-658-4100, noma.org

13-27

Fine

Arts Fundamentals Camp, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., 504-5399650, ogdenmuseum.org

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

13

St y l e W hat ’s H ot

Children's Chic In a city where whimsy is celebrated, it only makes sense to start our children off on the same skipping foot. From playtime and puddle jumping to stroller rides and dreamy sleeps, fill your little one’s life with charming prints and darling details.

2 3

By Amy Gabriel

5

1

4

6

14 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

SELECT PHOTOS BY CHERYL GERBER

12 7 10

11

8

9

13

1. Roll in style in a Mima Xari 4G stroller made with leatherette fabric. Zuka Baby, 701 Metairie Rd., 504-407-2700, ZukaBaby.com.

2. Even rainy days will make for a spirited smile when flitting about in a butterfly and floral print raincoat. Lucy Rose, 600 Metairie Rd., 504-218-7368; 3318 Magazine St., 504-895-0444, ShopLucyRose.com.

3. A magnolia teether in pale pink or yellow is the sweetest way to soothe baby’s tooth time.

Maison Nola, MaisonNola.com.

4. A pair of lightweight, flexible loafers from People Footwear will keep your kiddo the most comfy in the sandbox. Banbury Cross, 100 Atherton Dr., 504-837-0447, BanburyCrossKids.com.

6. Give your little one a luxe place to rest or play with a round Pello Floor Pillow. Little Miss Muffin, 766 Harrison Ave., 504-482-8200; 244 Metairie Rd., 504-833-6321; 3307 Severn Ave., 504-455-1444, ShopLittleMissMuffin.com.

5. Make a stylish splash in a precious one-piece swimsuit with delicate ruffle detail and teal trim. Saying Kids, SayingsKids.com.

7. Have a spring fling in a darling dress with white and blue scallop trim and embroidered tiny buds.

Auraluz, 4408 Shores Dr., 504-888-3313, ShopAuraluz.com.

8. He’ll be the most dapper at the crawfish boil in a pair of navy blue gingham shorts. Bon Temps Boutique, 603 ½ Metairie Rd., 504571-5259, BonTempsBoutique.com.

9. Step sweetly in a pair of silver Cape Clogs, with an Alderwood sole and adjustable heel strap.

Haase’s Shoe Store and Young Folks Shop, 8119 Oak St., 504866-9944, HaaseShoeStore.com.

10. Add sparkle to your little one’s locks with a shimmering rainbow and cluster of stars headband.

Relish, 600 Metairie Rd., 504-3093336, RelishNewOrleans.com.

11. A pair of oyster print pjs are sure to shell out a good night’s sleep, Little Hometown, LittleHometown.com.

12. Sweet dreams await beneath a Swan Lake mobile sweetly handmade with wool. Mignon, 5414 Magazine St., 504-891-2374, MignonNola.com.

13. Protect baby’s outfit with a carousel inspired bib made in France with 100% certified organic cotton. Pippen Lane, 2930 Magazine St., 504-2690106, PippenLane.com.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

15

St y l e D e si g n

Alex Geriner Owner and Designer, Doorman

By Stephen Maloney

Doorman furniture brand creator Alex Geriner started out building small custom pieces from reclaimed wood in the backyard of his Uptown apartment as a side hustle – but working with wood and metal soon blossomed into big business.

The Slidell native is quick to point out that he didn’t study design or woodworking before creating Doorman.

“It was all a fluke, it was not planned,” Geriner said.

“I had this really cool apartment Uptown, and I had all this kind of crummy furniture from my dorm room back in college, and it didn’t work very well in there, so I took a stab at making a bed for myself.”

Pretty soon, Geriner’s then co-workers at Peter Mayer began requesting custom pieces. Once he opened a page on Etsy, Geriner said his furniture-making life really took off, eventually leading to the creation of Doorman.

Just like Geriner, most of the team of woodworkers, welders, and fabricators he has assem-

bled didn’t necessarily set out to build furniture for a living.

“My team is pretty amazing,” he said. “I try to hire people that are, frankly, smarter than myself.

Pretty early on I realized that I didn’t know what I was doing, I didn’t have a whole lot of training, and that I didn’t need to be the smartest person in the room.”

That collaborative and open working environment has led to the development of some award-winning pieces, including the Josephine Bed and the Amelia Dining Table.

“Our product line now is ‘Southern made modern,’” Geriner said. “It’s Southern fur-

niture, but it’s made in New Orleans, and it’s made to fit today’s modern home.”

The popular pieces can all be traced back to the countless hours Geriner spent tinkering around in his yard years ago, with the personalities of the designers, fabricators and the city they all live in shining through each design.

Initially, Geriner used only repurposed wood he collected as the city rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina, but after 10 years, he decided to make the switch to new materials.

The Crescent City remains a key source of inspiration.

“New Orleans is at the helm of all of our inspirations,” he said.

“I took elements of Southern design, of furniture that I grew up with at my Grandmother’s house in Mississippi, or pieces that were passed down throughout my family, and also combined it with little tidbits of architectural details that I’ve admired and picked up on living in New Orleans.” ✦

Doorman, 504-408-1616, doormandesigns.com, @doormandesigns, hello@doormandesigns.com

PHOTOS BY JACQUELINE MARQUE

16 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

17

St y l e Fa shio n

What to Wear Harlow and Jolie Taravella, daughters of Monomin Boutique owner Rachel Hall Taravella, show how to best adorn Mom with this seasons' chicest accessories and glittering jewels.

Styled by Melissa Coleman Photographed by Mike Lirette

18 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

Four-year-old Jolie (left) and six-year-old Harlow (right) play dress up in Tutu Du Monde, available at Peony, sunglasses by Lupima from Sosusu, and bedazzled handbags. Red crystal Mesh Shoulder Bag by Benedetta Bruzziches, available at Joseph Stores. Bloom tote bag by Cult Gaia at Sosusu. Black wool hat from Monomin Boutique.

Diamonds and Pearls

All the pretty colors

Pearl necklace with removable pendant, Emerald cut diamond eternity band, and Amethyst pave cocktail ring, all available from Adler's Fine Jewelry. Dress from Monomin Mini.

Sapphire and diamond bracelet, Blue topaz cocktail ring, Peridot and pavé diamond cocktail ring and Ruby double halo diamond earrings, all available from Adler's Fine Jewelry. Outfit from Monomin Mini.

Peony, 2240 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, peonynola.com Sosusu, 3427 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115, sosusu.myshopify.com Joseph Stores, 5500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115, josephstores.com Adler's, 722 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, adlersjewelry.com Monomin Boutique, 2104 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, monomin.com

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

19

St y l e C ha n g e maker s

Kristi Trail Executive Director, Pontchartrain Conservancy

By Lindsay Mack

GET INVOLVED Both donations and volunteers are welcome at this time. In the winter months, volunteers help plant trees. Heading into the spring season, volunteers pick up litter and clear storm drains in advance of the heavy rains.

Born in the New Orleans area, Kristi Trail grew up near Lake Pontchartrain. At that time, it was a heavily polluted body of water. She recalls when the Pontchartrain Conservancy (formerly the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation) organization formed, and she sported a Save Our Lake bumper sticker through high school.

A lifelong environmentalist, Trail started an environmental club in high school, found ways to reduce waste around her home, and began an environmental club in college.

Her career path went a different way, and she spent 20 years in engineering work.

But environmental care remained a constant side gig, and she ran programs at the office to promote recycling.

When the executive director position at Pontchartrain Conversancy opened, Trail welcomed the opportunity to make environmental care a full-time career. In this role, Trail works to help residents understand the value of the coastal area in South Louisiana.

Living in such a water-rich area calls for careful stewardship.

“We need to appreciate it and take care of our water. That goes back to both water quality and water quantity and how to manage them,” said Trail.

The Pontchartrain Conservancy also works in the K-12 education space and partners with educators in the region. In addition to teaching students more about the region’s water resources, Trail and her team hope to inspire students to pursue careers in the water sector, whether on the science, communication, or technical side of things.

Ultimately, the organization works to ensure the people of southeast Louisiana can continue to live and thrive here. Trail encourages residents to examine how they live in this water-rich environment and find a way to survive, grow and prosper. ✦

In addition, there are many more ways to get involved with the Pontchartrain Conservancy. Visit The New Canal Lighthouse Museum at 8001 Lakeshore Drive to learn more about the lake and current coastal issues. Become a community scientist to collect water in sample bottles and search for the presence of microplastics. Or, join the outreach team to keep the community informed about the region’s coastal area. Every bit helps promote understanding and stewardship of the Pontchartrain Basin and its role in the southeast Louisiana community.

Pontchartrain Conservancy scienceforourcoast.org

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

20 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

21

S o cie t y A l o n g T he Avenu e

Spring's Bounty

By Diane Sustendal

I love spring. Granted, we don’t have much autumn or winter and goodness knows we have summer. But spring in New Orleans is magic and this year the magic started early with the Japanese magnolias in January, followed by azaleas, petunias and tulips. All delivered bright color to gardens, balconies, streetscapes, and parks from Uptown to the Northshore.

Our parks are full of people promenading and picnicking under blossoming shade trees – with or without pollen! And though normally busy, City Park is busier than ever thanks to the New Orleans Museum of Art producing a head-spinning number of events this spring.

Shortly after Rex reigned, another queen arrived, perhaps on a barge via Bayou St. John.

Nefertari, the most important wife of Ramesses II in all of her glory, has paid a visit bringing artifacts from 3,000-year-old Egypt, from sandals to sarcophagi, perfume bottles to bronze chisels to our fair city. Some 230 objects both great and small are worth making a reservation to

see. Though this writer visited Nefertari’s huge tomb this fall, none of these objects were there.

Perhaps they were in packing crates bound for New Orleans.

This exhibit excites like the Tutankhamun show of the 1970’s.

Few could be more pleased to see Nefertari’s show mounted than NOMA’s Director Emeritus E. John Bullard (who brought the Tut show to New Orleans) and Susan Taylor, NOMA's present director. Patrons packed the museum for the preview including Scott James, Greg Morey, Sarah Dunbar, Film Society Gala Honoree Alexa Georges and husband Jerry Armatis, Shaun Foster, Steve and Dana Hansel and many, many more.

Less than two weeks later, the museum hosted one of its most popular benefits. “Art in Bloom” is a bit of a spring fling that brings the museum, the Garden Study Club of New Orleans and First Horizon bank together for an inspired twoday event. Opening night was a send-up to fashion and flowers and the crowd dressed for the

NOMA Director Emeritus E. John Bullard

Lily Hines and daughter Alejandra Rosales

22 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

occasion. The next day lectures filled the morning, then came a luncheon at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters with a fashion show by the oh so chic Tanya Taylor and Susu Stall of SoSusu boutique. Those in attendance wish they had not eaten dessert.

Spotted at the opening reception were Stephanie Feoli, Murray and Carolyn Calhoun, newly returned to the city Marilee Hovet, C.C. and Billy Langenstein, Eleanor Farnsworth, several Labordes, Jane Scott and Phillip Hodges, Philip Lorio, Susan and Jimmy Gundlach, Pixie and Jimmy and James and Erica Reiss and event chairs Kaylea

Hill and Dorothy Mann. Others in attendance were some of the hard-working members of the exhibitors committee Margaret Beer, Elinor Bright, Sweet Dupuy, Susu Kearny, Sally Lapeyre, Shelby Mills and others. Believe me when I say, there was not a single forsythia branch left in the city!

The sun came out for Hogs for the Cause, where the smell of BBQ and success wafted through the air. Easter came with its usual migration to The Coast. JazzFest was welcomed back after a two-year delay, and any day now Creole Tomatoes will arrive. Ah, spring. ✦

John and Shelby Mills

Anne Reily Sutherlin

CHEERS TO 30 YEARS!

June 7 – 12, 2022 Join us for our 30th year of celebrating New Orleans chefs and wines from around the world — all for a good cause.

Tuesday, June 7, 2022 • Ella Brennan Award Gala Thursday, June 9, 2022 • Vinola Friday, June 10, 2022 • Pearl Jam • Chardonnay: Find Your Style • Dégustation en Noir • Decanting Wine • Quintessential Steakhouse Sojourn • Grand Tasting Friday Evening

Saturday, June 11, 2022 • (Sense)ational Wine Experience • Rise, Shine & Roast • Beyond Sushi • Build-A-Board • Stick a Cork In It • Grand Tasting Saturday Afternoon • Tournament of Rosés Sunday, June 12, 2022 • Burlesque, Bubbly & Brunch • Queens & Cocktails

PURCHASE TICKETS AT NOWFE.COM

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

23

S o cie t y P hila n t hro p ic Faces

Natalie Jayroe Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans & Acadiana, President and CEO

By Sue Strachan

Education: Bachelor of Arts, Honors, University of Reading, England and Masters of Business Administration, Loyola University New Orleans Age: 61

New Orleans and Louisiana are known for their cuisine, but the irony is that their citizens are often left hungry.

According to a recent report from the Center for Planning Excellence in partnership with UrbanFootprint, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic “the number of food-insecure households in Louisiana has increased 44% … of these households 69% have not had nutritionally adequate food in the past week.”

How does Louisiana compare to the rest of the U.S.?

“Nationally, 16% of households are food insecure, and 10% are food insufficient. In Louisiana, those numbers are significantly higher — 21% of households are food insecure, and 15% are food insufficient.”

Among the organizations addressing this need in the state is Second Harvest Food Bank. Founded in 1982 as Second Harvest of Greater New Orleans by Archbishop Philip M. Hannan, Bishop Robert P. Morin and Gregory Ben Johnson, then director of the Social Apostolate of the Archdiocese, the organization has grown through the years, now offering food distribution programs, a community kitchen meal service, nutrition education and public benefits assistance. There are hundreds of community partners Second Harvest collaborates with, including Archdiocese of New Orleans (as an affiliated ministry), Giving Hope Nola, New Orleans Mission, Ochsner Health and United Way. Natalie Jayroe became the president and CEO of the Second Harvest Food Bank in January 2006, having worked with food banks in founder, board and executive capacities for 28 years. Among her honors include: City Business’ Women of the Year (2007), Mazon’s Irving Cramer Award (2008), Young Leadership Council Role Model (2011) and City Business Money Maker (2011). Jayroe participated in the Leadership Louisiana (Class of 2012) and was a graduate of the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute. She currently serves on the policy engagement and advocacy committee for Feeding America and on the board of directors of the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute.

To contact Second Harvest for more information, go to no-hunger.org or for help, call toll-free at 855-392-9338.

24 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

How many years have you been with this organization? 16 years at Second Harvest, 28 years as a food bank CEO. Tell us what your organization does. Second Harvest Food Bank leads the fight against hunger in South Louisiana by providing food access, advocacy, education and disaster response. Second Harvest provides food and support to 700-plus community partners and programs across 23 parishes.

What has been the biggest – or most important – accomplishment that has happened while you have been at the organization? Since joining the mission, I’ve watched the total amount of food distributed increase by 500%. Beyond providing vital day-to-day food, the food bank has implemented programs to increase equity for people served across South Louisiana.

What is something about your organization that people most likely do not know about? True to the “Harvesters” in our name, we have begun working with local farmers to strengthen the local food system, provide much-needed fresh produce to those we serve and help our Louisiana farmers growing this produce to build assets.

Is there a person (or mentor) that inspired you? If so, how? My best friend who recently passed away, Gloria Taylor. She helped me have the confidence to be my best self and have more to give to others.

Is there a book, movie and/ or moment that changed your life? There are so many. My father’s A4 jet went missing in Vietnam on my sixth birthday. In his last reel-to-reel tape message to me he wished me happy birthday and asked me to take care of my mother.

What are you reading now?

“We The People,” which is about the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights, because I am taking part in the Nancy M. Marsiglia Institute of Justice. It is among many other histories and biographies on my Kindle, audible or in hard copy.

What is your idea of New Orleans bliss? How do you choose?

Dressing up for the St. Anne parade on Mardi Gras [day], listening to music and eating amazing food with friends at the festivals, riding a bike around City Park, watching the Saints win a Super Bowl.

Secret ambition? To finish my flying lessons and get my pilot’s license. ✦

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

25

S o cie t y

Home for the Holidays benefiting NOCCA Foundation A lineup of local legendary musicians performed at a fundraiser for NOCCA’s young artists.

➺

By Shelby Simon

Home for the Holidays welcomed a star-studded lineup of musicians and friends of NOCCA to the House of Blues for a night of spectacular art and music to benefit the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists.

The fund, established in memory of NOCCA alum Daniel Price (Visual Arts, 1993), is part of the NOCCA Foundation’s Student Success Program, which provides young artists with year-round support for training, supplies and college scholarships.

The program featured performances by legendary artists: Irma Thomas, John Boutte, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Kermit Ruffins,

Soul Rebels, James Andrews, Anders Osborne and Sasha Masakowski. Gralen Banks served as the emcee.

House of Blues New Orleans provided a patron party buffet preceding the gala for gold and silver-level patrons, which included back-to-back performances

by Irma Thomas and John Boutte, as well as the special perk of reserved seating in the House of Blues lodge with an unobstructed view of the stage. These patrons also enjoyed an open bar upstairs and downstairs, plus a silent auction featuring artwork by Daniel Price award recipients.

Approximately 600 patrons gathered for the musical program. ✦

Follow NOCCA on social media @NOCCAFoundation

26 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT Home for the Holidays

benefiting NOCCA Foundation

WHEN December 22, 2021

2

3

4

5

6

(225 Decatur St)

Photographed by Kenny Martinez

1

WHERE House of Blues

1. Glade Bilby, Sally Perry, Gregory Holt, Sally Shushan 2. Devin Leivo, Taylor Schoen 3. June Erie, Louis Colmenares 4. Katherine Batiste, Michael Batiste 5. Kathy Price, Steve Price 6. Susan Gunn, Madeline Price, Mary Claire Kramer, Alaina Fontenot

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

27

S o cie t y

Elenian Tea Honoring the Debutantes and Ladies in Waiting benefiting The Elenian Club The Elenian Club pays respect to its Italian/Sicilian heritage and the ladies who uphold tradition.

➺

By Shelby Simon

Now in its 88th year of membership and with four generations of Italian/Sicilian-Americans, The Elenian Club passed on traditions of heritage with a celebratory tea on Sunday, November 21st to honor its new members and debutantes.

The ceremony included an introduction to families with the ladies looking forward to being Elenians.

The Ladies in Waiting were: Emerson Chetta, Emery Dick, Emmaline Ural and Elianah Villafranco, Sydney Stephens and Maci Stephens.

The Debutantes were: Erica Ingraham, Amanda Parenti, Victoria Talbert, Caroline Falgoust, Mia Signorelli and Alison Cohen.

The program, held at Chateau Country Club in Kenner, offered tables adorned with centerpieces of floral paper-crafted teacups with Elenian red and gold teapot cards. The run of show

included a taste of Elenian history, a personal heritage story from the Elenian President Lisa Ingraham (a Pizzolato descendant) and the introductions of each honoree. Each of the Ladies received the gift of a crystal rose, and the Debutantes received hand painted Capodimonte porcelain roses.

Maria Villafranco served as the Debutante Tea Chair, and Faith Peperone served as the Lady in Waiting Chair.

Judith Miranti served as the Debutante Chair and Virginia Eckholdt served as Debutante Tea Coordinator.

The special occasion continued the club’s tradition of keeping their Italian heritage and community alive. The celebratory tea prefaced the formal Ballo di Natale, held at the Doubletree Hotel’s International Ballroom on December 4th, 2021. ✦

Follow The Elenian Club on social media @Elenianclubnola

28 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT Elenian Tea Honoring the

WHEN November 21, 2021

Debutantes and Ladies in Waiting benefiting The Elenian Club

2

3

4

5

6

Club, Kenner

Photographed by Jeff Strout

1

WHERE Chateau Country

1. Jerry Embree, Elianah Villafranco, Emmaline Ural, Maria Villafranco 2. Judith Miranti, Amanda Parenti, Victoria Talbert, Allison Cohen 3. Susan Marchiafava, Caroline Falgoust, Erica Ingraham, Lisa Ingraham 4. Sydney Stephens, Emery Dick, Emerson Chetta, Matthew Dick 5. Liz Bertucci, Virginia Eckholdt, Jo-Ann Testa-Hebert, Betty Deshotel 6. Michael Ural, Eileen Boudoin, Nancy Hamburger, Mary Lynn Roberts

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

29

S o cie t y

Signature Chefs Auction benefiting The March of Dimes March of Dimes hosted a one-of-a-kind chef-curated tasting experience to support their mission of fighting for moms and babies’ health.

➺

By Shelby Simon

Approximately 200 patrons gathered to give generously in support of March of Dimes’ 81st Signature Chefs Auction, which pays tribute to the culinary excellence of prominent chefs while raising money to improve the health of all moms and babies. This year, the black-tie gala raised $140,000 for research, programs and resources at March of Dimes.

The Omni Royal Orleans hosted the gala, home

to the Lead Chef, Tom Wolfe. Patrons enjoyed a 90-minute tasting experience before taking seats for the Live Auction and Fund the Mission, where they could bid on one-of-a-kind packages and participate in a paddle raise.

Event chairs were Paige Prechter and Karen Eastman. Platinum Sponsors were Children’s Hospital and Latter & Blum. ✦

Follow The March of Dimesl on Facebook @MarchofDimesLA and Instagram @marchofdimes_la

30 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT Signature Chefs Auction

WHEN December 3, 2021

benefiting The March of Dimes

2

3

4

5

6

Photographed by Gil Rubman

1

WHERE The Omni Royal

1. Gregory Harris, Shelly Harris 2. Matthew Wallace, Joy Durant, Benjamin Price 3. Alphonso Smith, Ruth Kain, Karen Eastman, Paige Prechter 4. Dolores Demma, Lauren Caponegro, Ashley Caponegro 5. Dr. Ryan Himes, Amanda England, Beth Himes 6. Phil Cossich, Sarah Cossich, Cherie Moore, Ryan Moore

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

31

S o cie t y

Holiday Home Tour Patron Party benefiting Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans An elegant cocktail reception for friends of the PRC kicked off the Holiday Home Tour festivities.

➺

By Shelby Simon

The Preservation Resource Center’s 46th annual Holiday Home Tour, presented by McEnery Residential, returned with a fresh new format this year.

The exclusive Patron Party offered a formal cocktail reception at the beautiful Garden District home of Blaire Fernandez and Mike Katz at 1520 Toledano St. The lavish soirée, presented by Brown Forman Brands, featured an open bar, delectable cuisine and live music.

The Holiday Home Tour opened the gardens to six private homes in the Garden District and Lower Garden District, all decorated for the holidays, for a festive Art & Garden in-person tour. Lush Garden District landscapes transformed into stunning holiday showcases filled with custom-designed, larger-thanlife art installations thanks to talented landscape architects and artists. The gardens featured were: 1225 Third St., the garden of Beverly Dale and Patrick Welsh; 1208 Eighth St., the garden of Janet and Scott

Howard; 1237 Washington Ave., the garden of Cherie and Jonathan Thompson; 1329 Seventh St., the garden of a friend of the PRC; 2340 Prytania St., the garden of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Dugan Westfeldt II; and 2324 Prytania St., the garden of Shelby and John Mills.

In addition, the event also showcased video tours of historic homes and the homes of famous local residents around New Orleans. The houses, filled with stunning architectural details, exquisite art collections and masterful interior design, highlighted the best of New Orleans’ diverse neighborhoods, and centered around the French Quarter home of Elizabeth and Michael Magner, the Uptown home of Nomita Joshi-Gupta and Dr. Shaminder Gupta, the Faubourg St. John home of Alon and Emily Shaya and the Uptown home of Ashley and Tim Francis. The productions were filmed by Calm Dog Productions and 343 Media.

Event Co-chairs were Jenny Longwell and Courtney Lane.

Sherman Lane. ✦

Follow Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans @PRCNO

32 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT Holiday Home Tour Patron

WHEN December 10, 2021

Party benefiting Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans

2

3

4

5

6

Fernandez and Mike Katz

Photographed by Jeff Strout

1

WHERE Home of Blaire

1. Courtney Lane, Alon Shaya, Emily Shaya, Jenny Longwell 2. Danielle Del Sol, Max Bernardi, Marcus Brown, Sarah Nelson 3. Erin Hymel, Parke McEnery, Katherine Eshleman 4. Patrick Welsh, Beverly Dale, Chris Kornman, Arian Elfant 5. Gordon McLeod, Joe Bouie, Leslie Bouie, Marshall Hevron 6. Nomita Joshi-Gupta, Shammi Gupta

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

33

S o cie t y

Under the Stars: 20th Anniversary Celebration benefiting Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO) IPNO honored its supporters and clients in their 20th year with a private dinner at Cavan and a festive party at The Broadside.

➺

By Shelby Simon

The Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO) celebrated its 20th anniversary of existence in 2021, starting with a private dinner at Cavan on December 2nd and a lively party under the stars at The Broadside on December 4th. The events raised $140,000 to support IPNO’s critical service work to expose the root causes of systemic racism and inequities, freeing innocent people from unjust sentences and supporting their clients living full and well lives after their release.

Approximately 65 guests enjoyed passed appetizers and an open bar at Cavan, where former clients Robert Jones, Jerome Morgan and Calvin Duncan spoke, along with IPNO Executive Director Jee Park and IPNO Board Chair Frank Neuner. There was also a very successful paddle raise where IPNO clients Robert Jones and Jerome Morgan

served as the auctioneers. State Representative Royce Duplessis also spoke and led IPNO in honoring their freed clients.

The outdoor program at The Broadside hosted approximately 350 partygoers and featured special lighting design by Pyramid Audio, a live show by Hot 8 Brass Band and a documentary short film about IPNO produced by JoLu Productions.

Cuisine was provided by Ms. Linda’s YaKaMein, The Black Roux Collective and Milkfish.

Donald Lewis served as the emcee, announcing clients when they came on stage, and thanked the sponsors.

The benefit was presented

by Jason Flom and Wrongful Conviction Podcasts. Sponsors included JusticeAid, The Broadside, Goldring Family Foundation and Sazerac New Orleans, VOTE, Covington and Burling, LLP, Jones Walker LLP and Bizou Wines. ✦

Follow Innocence Project New Orleans on Facebook @IPNOLA and on Instagram and Twitter @_ipno_

34 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

P hi la n t hro p ic E ve n t s

EVENT AT A GLANCE

WHAT Under the Stars: 20th

Anniversary Celebration benefiting Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO)

WHEN December 2 & 4, 2021

2

3

4

5

6

The Broadside

Photographed by Gil Rubman

1

WHERE Cavan and

1. Avery Pardee, Frank Neuner Jr., Ret. Chief Justice Bernette J. Johnson 2. Erin Monju, Kendra Anderson, Richard Davis 3. Jerome Morgan, Calvin Duncan, Robert Jones 4. Jee Park, Stanwood Duval Jr. 5. Janet Duval, Judy Perry Martinez 6. Micah Fincher, Jenn Hull

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

35

S o cie t y

SNAPSHOTS

4

1

5

2

6

3

1. Lally Brennan, John Charpentier, and Ti Martin at Commander’s Palace for the Garden District Association’s annual fundraising event, A Fall Affair, which benefits the organization’s mission to improve the Garden District as a vital residential neighborhood. 2. Fall Affair co-chairs Paul and Annie Thibodeaux enjoy an evening of food, drink, and music with Bethaney Vincent and Rick Buchsbaum. Guests were treated to specialty cocktails on the Commander’s Palace patio, a three-course meal prepared by Chef Meg Bickford, and a live performance by the Joe Simon Jazz ensemble. 3. James and Sarah Wood, honoree, share a smile with Garden District Association board member Carolyn Fitzpatrick and her husband Brian Fitzpatrik during A Fall Affair, the GDA’s annual fundraiser, held at Commander’s Palace in November.

36 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

4. Diane Lyons and Jerry Reyes attend the 4th Annual Improvisations Gala at the New Orleans Jazz Museum in December, where guests enjoyed an exciting mix of some of the finest local and national musical talents, delicious New Orleans cuisine, a selection of coveted auction items and a dazzling Sound Collage installation, courtesy of the LUNTA Fête Celebration of Light. 5. Ryan and Richard Adkerson pose with Julie Bateman outside the historic Old U.S. Mint for the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s 4th Annual Improvisations Gala. The event supports the Jazz Museums’ dynamic interactive exhibits, multigenerational educational programming, research facilities and engaging musical performances, in order to explore and celebrate the music New Orleans made famous – jazz. 6. Jerry Armatis, Alexa Georges, and Janet and Scott Wilson enjoy a night of music, art, food and fun at the Jazz Museum’s Improvisations Gala in December.

S na p sh ot s

8

7

7. Marguerite Oestreicher, Peter Kaufmann, and Bobbie Stephens ring in the holiday season at the Poydras Home’s Holiday Tree Lighting & Music Festival in December. This year, the event was held in person and virtually, to safely accommodate residents and their families. 8. Micheline and Fred VanDenburgh celebrate the holidays with Quack Avegno at the Poydras Home’s Holiday Tree Lighting & Music Festival in December to benefit the nonprofit’s mission to enrich the lives of seniors and families through personalized care and innovative programming. 9. Craig Tolbert enjoys a festive evening with Bobby, Bridget, and Jane Bories at the 3rd annual Poydras Home’s Holiday Tree Lighting & Music Festival in December. Attendees got in the holiday spirit at the outdoor tree lighting, which was followed by two musical performances and two lively raffles.

9

10

12

11

10. Mary Johnson, Ellen Coleman, and Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses Executive Director Tessa Jagger at the Historic Houses Society Gala, an annual event to honor HGGHH’s top museum members and donors. 11. Peggy Stafford, John Shires, Sarah Martzolf and David Jackson enjoy a night of live music and local food and drink at the Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses’ annual fundraising event, the Historic Houses Society Gala, held in November at a private Uptown historic home. 12. Kit Fritchie, Betsey Todd, and Amy Robertson celebrate history and preservation at the Historic Houses Society Gala, a fundraising event to benefit Hermann-Grima + Gallier Houses, a non-profit museum that preserves two 19th-century French Quarter homes and inspires discourse about our collective past and its relevance to our present and future.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

37

Getting Back to Lunch

Lunch at the always festive Commander's Palace Photo by Max Cusimano

38 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

Lunch is as big a deal as you care to make of it. Donning matching feather boas with a tribe of friends for a booze-fueled midday repast at Galatoire’s that bleeds into dinner is as a-okay in this town as grabbing a Reuben at Stein’s Deli or a carton of leftovers from your fridge to be enjoyed in solitude on a park bench.

After two years of ho-hum sandwiches and salads at your makeshift desk between Zoom meetings or gobbling down a quick bite between your children’s virtual classes, it is now safe to return your dining room table to its intended purpose and take that needed mid-afternoon break. That precious time can be used for the settlement of business deals, catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion, a casual first date, an attempt at a reconciliation, or simply relaxing alone before getting back to your daily grind.

By Jyl Benson

An unrivaled, panoramic view overlooking the sparkling Mississippi River will take you about as far as you can get from the daily grind without leaving town altogether. The country’s main artery is the focal point at Chemin à la Mer (pathway to the sea), Chef Donald Link’s restaurant collaboration with the Four Seasons Hotel. The outdoor terrace is the place to take in the fine late spring breezes over lunch.

Link’s menu was inspired by his travels to French and Spanish-speaking Caribbean islands, as well as France, Spain and Italy. For the West Indies Crab Salad, hunks of pearly-white jumbo lump crabmeat are offset by a dressing enlivened with lime, jalapeño and mint. Other luncheon offerings include Pan-Roasted Ora King salmon with Beluga lentils and fresh herbs; PanSeared Jumbo Shrimp with cauliflower rice gratin, and Duck Confit with white bean pistou. Gulf oysters are ever-present at the raw bar, while other varieties from the east and west coasts as well as other parts of the Gulf cycle in and out.

Following a comprehensive renovation and restoration Columns Hotel (the “The” was lost in the process) reopened last year with a fresh, revamped look and expanded outdoor areas.

New features also include second floor event and dining spaces, a guest lounge, a roof-deck and a new bar and restaurant with a menu from Executive Chef Paul Terrebonne. The Columns Burger is a sure bet with bacon marmalade, arugula, and provolone, as are the Roasted Oysters with Parmesan, lemon and Swiss chard and the Hanger Steak with caramelized onions and a classic Bordelaise sauce.

A late lunch on the veranda while observing the rumbling streetcar making its way down the tracks under a canopy of oaks has the power to fulfill everyone's moonlight and

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

39

Bites and cocktails are a treat on the lush Columns Hotel patio

Vibrant flavors and libations served at Elizabeth Street Café

BELOW: Chemin à la Mer's palate pleasing Pate Grande-Mere BOTTOM RIGHT: Grilled octopus with confit fingerling potatoes, lemon aioli & smoked 'Nduja from Gianna

40 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

magnolias vision of New Orleans.

Gianna, a celebrated Italian restaurant where the luxury of home-made pasta is a given, is now offering an all-day menu on Fridays. The rustic Italian menu reflects the popular dinner menu that earned Gianna a spot as a James Beard Foundation Best New Restaurant finalist in 2019.

Chef Jared Heider's Friday all-day menu features antipasti favorites like grilled octopus, Ribollita soup, grilled lion's mane mushroom, and roasted heirloom carrots, in addition to many brunch options. Other menu items include spaghetti and clams, Pesce del Giorno, fire-roasted chicken, veal Saltimbocca and roasted cauliflower.

Elizabeth Street Café, a bright, colorful, upscale Vietnamese café and French bakery, opened last year in the Hotel Saint Vincent following the property’s $22 million-plus restoration. The restaurant is a second location for the Austin, Texas original. Unlike many local-owned mom-and-pop Vietnamese restaurants that stick to the BYOB format

and thrifty prices, Elizabeth Street Café kicks things off with a sophisticated cocktail menu featuring house creations as well as Asian-influenced versions of familiar standards. That sophistication continues with Broiled Escargot with Thai basil curry butter served over a house-made baguette; and Texas Akauski Beef Tenderloin Carpaccio with seared Shishito peppers, marinated Hon Shimeji mushrooms and lemon soy. Other standouts include Ginger-Chili Oil Dumplings, numerous varieties of Banh Mi, bun, Cha Ca Redfish, Chicken and Kaffir Lime Laap.

With plenty of covered outdoor seating in a verdant setting, this is a welcoming place to take in the gorgeous the late spring weather in the Lower Garden District.

Early this spring Wishing Town Café brought its lighthearted approach to Vietnamese treats to a busy Uptown corner just blocks from Audubon Park. The new location from founders Vivi and Kevin Zheng is full-service with an abundance of patio seating as well as seating on the wrap-around porch. There are a couple of cozy rooms inside and the dessert counter hits you full on in its considerable glory when you step within.

Vivi’s lavish cakes and desserts include green tea, Durian, and Taro Crepe cakes, the signature Wishing Cake, egg yolk puff pastries and custom cakes. On the savory side there is an extensive array of delicate, savory parcels including pork buns, scallop and shrimp pocket dumplings, onion and beef triangles as well as octopus balls, pork floss cakes, spicy soups and hot pots.

To split with another the L’Atlantique (smoked salmon, lemon mayonnaise, avocado, arugula on toasted olive bread) and Le Parisienne (baked ham, butter, Comté, cornichons on baguette) sandwiches with glasses of iced tea at La Boulangerie from a sidewalk table overlooking Magazine Street may be the most perfect casual lunch around. Chef Maggie Scales offers daily specials, quiche, salads and handcrafted pastries and bread.

In August 2020, Chef Suda Ounin and Jeerasak Boonlert opened the restaurant and bakery they had long dreamed of. Housed in a cottage the color of strawberry buttercream frosting and fronted by a lush garden, Thai DJing beckons merrily from 5th Street in Old Gretna.

The menu at Thai DJing changes regularly to accommodate specials like whole fried fish served with pineapple and peppers, spicy Thai

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

41

scallops and outstanding soups.

Also skilled in pastry arts, Ounin keeps a changing selection of painstakingly crafted showstoppers on display in the pastry case in the bar.

Lunch specials (Tuesday-Friday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) include a salad of fresh greens with a sensational ginger-curry vinaigrette, choice of soup, and a roti-based slider with a choice of protein, or an appetizer.

A hotspot for casual Latin American food and cocktails, the team behind Cure and Cane & Table carved Val’s from a formerly charmless service station, the remaining hard edges of which are obscured by garden spaces heavily packed with colorful tropical foliage to create a lush barrier between the covered outdoor seating area and the sidewalks at the intersection of Freret and Valence streets.

Following more than a year of research and travelling throughout Mexico, Chef Fredo Nogueria crafted a menu of Ceviche, snacks, and tacos (crispy beef belly, carnitas pork shoulder, chicken in green mole and fried fish). The corn tortillas are made in house. A rotation of specials (oyster tacos and scallop ceviche) keeps things interesting.

Outstanding cocktails are made with fruit juiced in house. There is the expected Margarita, frozen Margarita (there are both classic and daily special options), as well as new takes on classics and some house originals.

Lunching in the French Quarter with someone special and seeking a bit of luxury? Criollo in the historic Hotel Monteleone recently began a daily caviar service with Kaluga and Oscietra caviars. Made with jumbo Gulf shrimp, the Shrimp Louie is also impressive as is the Jumbo Lump Crab cake topped with grilled Roman-style artichoke hearts. Pair lunch with a bottle of

42 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

Assorted delights from La Boulangerie

TOP RIGHT: Criollo's jumbo lump Crabcake BOTTOM LEFT: Val's Huevos Rancheros, photo by Sam Hanna BOTTOM LEFT: a selection of bites and cocktails from Thai DJing

the specially-priced Taittinger Champagne ($39/bottle – you can’t beat that anywhere) for a midday splurge without a hefty price tag.

If you are from New Orleans there is a good chance your grandparents (or even your great grandparents) shared drinks on a date at the Bayou Bar on the ground floor of New Orleans’ historic Pontchartrain Hotel. It is now a casual tavern-style bar filled with history and memories as a drinking den for both Sinatra and Capote.

Under Chef Brian Landry the Bayou Bar is open for lunch with uncommon offerings like Duck Poppers with cane gastrique and herb cream cheese; Sticky Rib Tips with pepper jelly; Wild Mushroom Grilled Cheese with Manchego and truffle; and Steak Frites with Wagyu flank, fries and salsa verde. There are

also daily lunch specials.

The midday meal at Commanders’ Palace can be a very affordable luxury. Chef Meg Bickford changes up the menu constantly to highlight the very best of what is in season to keep things fresh and interesting. The Today’s Two daily special consists of an entrée and a choice of soup or salad for under $23.

In addition to .25 cent martinis (available with the purchase of any entrée), there are special $5 Lunch Libations.

“You people celebrate everything,” said Ti Adelaide Martin, co-proprietress of Commander’s Palace. “You celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, business deals, each other, LIFE, at lunch, brunch, and dinner…and we get to be a part of those joyous occasions.

We don’t take ourselves too seriously. We like just having fun.”

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

43

A gorgeous Wishing Town Bakery & Cafe confection

Bayou Bar, in The Pontchartrain Hotel, 2031 St Charles Ave, 504-323-1454, bayoubarneworleans.com Chemin à la Mer, in the Four Seasons Hotel, 2 Canal St, 504-434-5895, fourseasons.com/neworleans/dining/ restaurants/cheminalamer Columns, St Charles Ave, 504-8999308, thecolumns.com Commander’s Palace, 1403 Washington Ave, 504-899-8221, commanderspalace.com Criollo, in the Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St, 504-681-4444, criollonola.com Elizabeth Street Café in the Hotel Saint Vincent, 1507 Magazine St., 504350-2435, elizabethstreetcafe.com Gianna, 700 Magazine St #101, 504399-8016, ginnarestaurant.com La Boulangerie, 4600 Magazine St., 504-269-3777, laboulangerienola.com Thai DJing, 93 5th Street, Gretna, 504766-0681, thaidjing.com Val’s, 4632 Freret St., 504-356-0006, valsnola.com

Duck Wings and Sticky Rib Tips with a Whisky Sour at Bayou Bar

44 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

Wishing Town Bakery & Café, 802 Nashville Avenue, 504-533-9166, wishingtown.com

St. Charles Avenue's Registry

Charitable Events May–July 2022 Compiled by Elizabeth Griffith We will continue to update this calendar online at stcharlesavenue.com as more information becomes available. All events are subject to change.

APRIL 29

Zoo-To-Do for Kids presented by Children’s Hospital New Orleans

Benefits: Audubon Nature Institute Event Info.: The 33rd annual Zoo-To-Do for Kids presented by Children’s Hospital New Orleans on April 29, 2022, will celebrate Audubon’s conservation efforts for pollinators, the group of insects, mammals and birds on which the future of life on Earth depends. Zoo-To-Do for Kids presented by Children’s Hospital New Orleans is New Orleans’ premier benefit event for kids.

Audubon Zoo is transformed into a magical playland filled with giant inflatables, live entertainment and complimentary food and libations to delight every palate.

Tickets: $25 Location: 6500 Magazine St. Contact: events. audubonnatureinstitute.org/ztdk MAY 2

Shorty Fest 2022 Presented by Acura

Benefits: Trombone Shorty Foundation Event Info.: Headlined by Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, this year’s musical lineup features performances by Galactic featuring Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, Dumpstaphunk, Dirty Dozen Brass Band

and students from the Trombone Shorty Academy. In addition to the coveted indoor celebration, Shorty Fest is expanding its festivities with a free outdoor block party and the Tipitina’s Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony– this year honoring the legendary musician Cyril Neville.

Tickets: $100-$300 Location: 501 Napoleon Ave. Contact: tipitinas.com MAY 3

GiveNOLA Day

Benefits: Greater New Orleans Foundation Event Info.: Make a difference by joining for 24 hours of giving to benefit regional nonprofits. Now in its 9th year, GiveNOLA Day is a 24-hour event hosted by the Greater New Orleans Foundation.

Together, let’s inspire people to give generously so that we can make our region stronger and create a thriving community for all.

Tickets: Donations to nonprofits Location: 13 parish region Contact: givenola.org MAY 6

Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do

Benefits: Audubon Nature Institute Event Info.: Spend a memorable evening at the 2022 Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do, Audubon Zoo’s signature fundraising

event celebrating its 44th year.

Hancock Whitney Zoo-To-Do will be held Friday, May 6, and will celebrate Audubon’s conservation efforts for pollinators, the group of insects, mammals, and birds on which the future of life on Earth depends. Your ticket purchase includes live entertainment, premium cocktails and delicious cuisine from local restaurants.

Tickets: $175 Location: 6500 Magazine St. Contact: events. audubonnatureinstitute.org/ztd

MAY 13

MAY 13

MAY 13

Benefits: Son of a Saint Event Info.: The Son of a Saint Classic golf tournament returns in 2022 to raise critical funding support for the New Orleans-based 501(c)(3) organization and its mission of transforming the lives of hundreds of fatherless boys throughout our community. Through 2022, Son of a Saint is celebrating 11 years of providing service and success to young men across the New Orleans area and is continuing to grow and evolve into its bright future.

Tickets: Foursomes start at $1,000 Location: English Turn Golf & Country Club @ 1 Clubhouse Dr. Contact: sonofasaint.org

Benefits: Bridge House/Grace House Event Info.: Each year Bridge House/Grace House hosts the Women of Substance Luncheon to honor local female role models for the many women in our substance use disorder treatment program who are striving to become sober and self-sufficient.

Three outstanding women from the New Orleans community, who we feel possess the ideals our Grace House women look for in a role model, are chosen as the honorees. The event also recognizes three other individual honorees: a “Richard ‘Buzzy’ Gaiennie Award” recipient, a “Volunteer of the Year Award” recipient

Son of a Saint Classic 2022 Golf Tournament

Brass ‘N Glass

Benefits: YAYA Event Info.: Join us for YAYA’s spring fundraiser, Brass ‘N Glass! This free event will feature a glass demonstration, live music and an arts market with work by YAYA artists. Participate in our Goblet Grab by buying a handmade glass and drink for free all night!

Tickets: Free!

Location: 3322 Lasalle St. Contact: yayainc.org

27th Annual Women of Substance Luncheon

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

45

and a Grace House “Alumna of the Year” recipient.

Tickets: Table of 10: $1,250; Individual Seat: $125 Location: Audubon Tea Room 6500 Magazine St. Contact: 504-821-7134, bridgehouse.org/events/ women-of-substance/

visit ochsner.org/colors.

Tickets: $100 Location: Four Seasons New Orleans, 2 Canal St. Contact: 504-842-8104, ochsner.org/colors

Tickets: Free Location: 2541 Bayou Rd. Contact: kidsmart.org

MAY 14

MAY 13

Benefits: KID smART Event Info.: ART JAM is KID smART’s annual family arts festival celebrating creativity and imagination by bringing families from around the Greater New Orleans area together to create works of art! This interactive block party takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 2541 Bayou Road and will feature arts activities with local non-profit organizations and artists, food and live entertainment. Best of all, everything is completely free to the public! KID smART is seeking sponsors to help grow the event and reach even more New Orleans families in 2022.

In addition to financial support, we welcome in-kind donations of food, art supplies, advertising space, and more. Please contact Heather Nelson at heather@ kidsmart.org, if you would like to sponsor or make a donation.

Benefits: NOCCA Foundation Event Info.: The NOCCA Foundation’s spectacular ART&SOUL gala will take place on Saturday May 14, 2022 at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, 600 Homer Plessy Way! Enjoy great food, drinks, entertainment–and your chance to win a brand-new, 2022 Lincoln Corsair! ART&SOUL kicks off at 6:00 p.m. with a patron party, featuring food and drink from NOCCA’s outstanding Culinary Arts alumni and some of our city’s best restaurants and chefs, plus a performance by alum Orlando Gilbert and The Crescent City Connection. Patrons will also be able to place early bids in our silent auction, which includes vacation packages, dining experiences, and of course, stunning original art like Queen’s Blossom, created for ART&SOUL 2022

by NOCCA Visual Arts junior Khalil McKnight. ART&SOUL

Colors of the Mind, presented by Hancock Whitney & Woodward Design and Build

Benefits: Ochsner Health Event Info.: The 2022 Colors of the Mind, presented by Hancock Whitney and Woodward Design and Build, is set to take place on Friday, May 13, at the Four Seasons New Orleans.

Celebrate the Ochsner Neuroscience Institute at the Colors Ball! The event will begin at 7:30 p.m. and entertainment will be provided by DJ Bambam Belonge and Dat Band!

Proceeds from this event will support patients and programs of the Ochsner Neuroscience Institute. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and full list of our 2022 sponsors, please

46 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

ART JAM

MAY 14

ART&SOUL

continues with the gala at 7:00 p.m., sponsored by The Meraux Foundation. Performances

by NOCCA alumni Doreen’s Jazz New Orleans and NOCCA’s Alumni All-Stars will get guests on their feet, and one lucky person will win a brandnew Lincoln Corsair in our Lamarque Lincoln Raffle.

Tickets: $100+ Location: 600 Homer Plessy Way Contact: 504-940-2900, artandsoulnocca.com MAY 16

Champions FORE Health Golf Tournament

Benefits: Ascension DePaul Foundation Event Info.: Ascension DePaul Foundation is excited to formally announce the return of the annual Champions FORE Health Golf Tournament, Monday, May 16th at Bayou Oaks South Course at City Park, beginning at noon! Proceeds from this tournament will help raise critical funds to increase access to health care to members of our community. Additionally, this event will highlight issues affecting men’s health, like diabetes, heart disease and cancer, and

support our efforts to generate close to $1 million in savings to our overall health system.

There will be a morning putting contest with a few sisters from the Daughters of Charity order before the shotgun start at noon. Enjoy good food and great company all in the name of high-quality health care for all.

Tickets: $150 single player | $600 foursome Location: Bayou Oaks at City Park - South Course, 1040 Filmore Ave. Contact: 504-212-9509, ascensiondepaulfoundation. org/special-events/championsfore-health-golf-tournament MAY 18

Battle of the Models

Benefits: You Night Events Event Info.: Battle of the Models - 1980’s Rock Glam theme.

This is a high-energy event where graduates of our Runway Empowerment Program go “heel to heel” against Industry Professional Models in a Runway showdown. “Battle of the Models” features alums who have graduated from You Night’s Runway Empowerment Program.

The professional runway models

are from Chic Nouvelle Modeling Agency. It is a high-energy show, full of theatrics, that always gets the crowd on their feet. Local celebrity judges will rate the models on a variety of competition criteria. There will be three runway battles and at the end, one team will be crowned battle champions, winning the coveted crystal stiletto trophy. You Night alums have won 5 out of 5 times against the professionals. The event this year will be held at the Castine Center in Mandeville - 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. on June 18th.

Music: Crowd Pleasers (DJ) Tickets: $40-$50 per ticket Location: Castine Center - Pelican Park 63550 Pelican Dr. Contact: 877-591-5936 x1; younightevents.com

of the most exciting charitable galas of the year, returns with a fantastic lineup of food, drinks and entertainment. Chaired by Vivian Grandal and Ashleigh Taylor, the 43rd Julia Jump and Patron Party will take place May 20 from 6:30-10:30 p.m. at the Four Seasons Hotel. The party raises money to support the PRC’s critical work preserving New Orleans’ historic architecture, neighborhoods and cultural identity. We are thrilled to celebrate our spring gala in the incredible adaptive reuse of the former World Trade Center, now home to the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences.

Tickets: $125-$300 Location: The Four Seasons, 2 Canal St. Contact: 504-581-7032, prcno.org

MAY 20

MAY 20

PRC’s 43rd Julia Jump presented by Landis Construction

Benefits: Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans Event Info.: Jump back in! The PRC’s Julia Jump presented

by Landis Construction, one

Annual Guardian Angel Award Gala Benefits: Project Lazarus Event Info.: Project Lazarus’ Annual Guardian Angel Award Gala takes place on Friday, May 20 and will celebrate some of our most impactful and passionate volunteers as Guardian Angels Jane Wilbert, who served as our Assistant Director in the 1990’s and has continuously shared her accounting skills, and Gary Schiro, who has chaired our Bon Appétit fundraiser since 2015 and elevated it to incredible new heights.

This year’s Gala will also honor Cleveland Guillot, Jr., and celebrate the life of our beloved Executive Director Steve Rivera, who passed away unexpectedly just a year ago.

Tickets: $175 per individual ticket Location: 600 Carondelet St. Contact: 504-949-3609 ext.

503, projectlazarus.net MAY 20

Suits & Salads Luncheon

Benefits: Dress for Success New Orleans Event Info.: The 12th Annual Suits & Salads Luncheon will be held Friday, May 20th at the Higgins Hotel New Orleans. The program will feature a keynote speech, highlight

the 2022 Client of the Year success story and award the Volunteer of the Year. ALG Style will be presenting a festive fashion show showcasing styles from local boutiques to round out the program.

Tickets: $150 Location: 1000 Magazine St. Contact: 504-891-4337 ext. 4, bidpal.net/suitsandsalads MAY 21

Imagination Gala

Benefits: Ochsner Health Event Info.: You are invited to Ochsner Health’s Imagination Gala, benefitting Ochsner Hospital for Children! The inaugural event will take place on Saturday, May 21 at Mardi Gras World. The evening will feature cocktails and cuisine, games, entertainment by Jessie’s Girls and ways you can support our pediatric patients and their families! For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and full list of our 2022 sponsors, please visit ochsner.org/imaginationagala.

Tickets: $250 Location: 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl. Contact: 504-842-8104, ochsner.org/imaginationgala MAY 25

Business Hall of Fame

Benefits: Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans Event Info.: The event will feature a reception, plated dinner and awards presentations.

The dinner will begin with a procession of past and current honorees by induction year.

Presentations will be on video as well as live.

Tickets: Tables - $3,500 & $5,000/Tickets - $350 each or $700 per pair Location: The Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St. Contact: 504-569-8658, jagno.org MAY 28

Secret Garden Tours of the French Quarter

Benefits: Patio Planters of the Vieux Carre Event Info.: The tour event offers the allure of private and historic French Quarter gardens otherwise closed to the public.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

47

honor our heroes. We come together to achieve something bigger than ourselves. We live fierce and fight for all.

Tickets: $200 Location: 601 Loyola Ave. Contact: 504-872-3498, neworleansheartball.heart.org JUNE 11-12

PRC Shotgun House Tour presented by Entablature Design + Build & Entablature Realty

The self-guided walking tour reveals how garden designers take advantage of small spaces and provides access to the cool and private hideaways suited to the Louisiana climate in styles of early Spanish and French architecture. Multiple courtyards will be opened for a selfguided walking tour Saturday, May 28, between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Tickets: $30 (children under 10 are free) Location: French Quarter Contact: 225-287-5200, patioplanters.net JUNE 1

Juleps in June

Benefits: One Book One New Orleans Event Info.: Juleps in June is One Book One New Orleans’ annual thank-you party for supporters, community partners and volunteers. OBONO looks forward to raising a glass to those who have contributed their time, talent, or dollars, because all are necessary to carry out our vision of making New Orleans a more literate city, one book at a time. Guests can look forward to a wide variety of food, entertainment by the Joy Clark Trio, and of

48 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

course, mint juleps!

Tickets: Free with membership Location: Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar, 1114 Constance St. Contact: onebookonenola.org JUNE 7

Empower 2022

Benefits: Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans, Inc. Event Info.: The event will feature 2-3 keynote vignettes, a panel discussion as well as mentor round circles led by City Business Women of the Year.

Tickets: Tickets and Tables are available Location: The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, 921 Canal St. Contact: 504-569-8658, jagno.org JUNE 7-12

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

Benefits: The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience Event Info.: The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience has announced tickets are now on sale. Events will have limited attendance; however, some events will have additional time slots added. “We’ve created several ticket packages to help guide our guests through

the best experience that fits their needs,” said Joey Worley, NOWFE President. “With varying levels, everyone can find something to fit their budget and their schedule.”

Tickets: visit website for a range of options Location: Multiple Contact: nowfe.com 11

New Orleans Heart Ball

Benefits: American Heart Association Event Info.: Together, we are relentlessly focused on the heart of our community.

Through the Heart of New Orleans and Heart Ball campaign, we celebrate our collective success in driving change, funding science and improving behaviors – no matter where, or how, we gather. That means taking our efforts beyond the ballroom, working every day to help every heart. In more than 150 communities across the country, Heart of New Orleans and Heart Ball supporters unite with a shared purpose to raise the critical funds we need to ensure our work continues.

Throughout our campaign we celebrate our milestones, we thank our sponsors and we

Benefits: The Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans Event Info.: The Preservation Resource Center’s Shotgun House Tour, presented by Entablature Design + Build & Entablature Realty, throws open the doors to beautifully renovated private residences that showcase the livability and versatility of New Orleans’ beloved shotgun houses. The tour is self-guided and walkable.

Tickets: Advance ticket sales: $25 for PRC members, $30 for nonmembers; Day-of-the-event ticket sales: $35 Location: Audubon Riverside neighborhood, Uptown New Orleans Contact: 504-581-7032, prcno.org JULY 8-9

Shop for Success

Benefits: Dress for Success New Orleans Event Info.: Dress for Success New Orleans will host the “Shop for Success” Fundraiser on July 8th & 9th. The fundraiser will be held in their space at 1700 Josephine Street, Suite 102, allowing supporters to shop Dress for Success New Orleans’ excess inventory! Dress for Success New Orleans will open its stockroom doors to allow thrifty shoppers to shop amazing deals guilt-free. All women’s sizes are available from 0 to 28 and inventory prices range from $5-$20. This Shop for Success fundraiser will also raise more awareness about the many free programs DFSNO offers that impact the lives of local women.

Tickets: Free to attend. Inventory prices range from $5-$20 Location: 1700 Josephine St., Suite 102 Contact: 504-891-4337 ext. 4, bidpal.net/dfsno

TENTATIVELY IN JULY 2022

Big Wig Ball

Benefits: Sylvain Society Event Info.: Patrons dress in costumes and wigs according to the ball’s theme. Winners of the costume contest are chosen as judges for the contest the following year. Silent auction and raffle prizes are also popular. Proceeds benefit Student Night Out at the Opera.

Tickets: $55.00 Location: n/a Contact: 504-529-2278, neworleansopera.org/ category/sylvain/ JULY 15

Opening Night Party

Benefits: The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane Event Info.: The Opening Night Party for the New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane will celebrate the opening of Henry IV by William Shakespeare. The party will include edibles and libations for the attending patrons, students, faculty and staff of Tulane and the New Orleans public.

Tickets: $100/person Location: Lupin Theatre, Tulane University Contact: 504-865-5117, neworleansshakespeare.org JULY 16

Mr. Legs XXII

Benefits: Bridge House/ Grace House Event Info.: Mr. Legs is one of Bridge House/Grace House’s largest fundraisers and features male contestants who show a little leg for charity. As a parody of a beauty pageant, Mr. Legs contestants don costumes and perform on stage for a few minutes each, entertaining the crowd.

Events such as Mr. Legs allow Bridge House/Grace House to provide its services. Contestants solicit funds before and during the event. The title of “Mr. Legs” is awarded to the contestant that raises the most money. Prizes are also awarded for 1st and 2nd runner up. Celebrity Judges select winners from various categories.

The event also features complimentary food from local restaurants, a silent auction and raffle.

An open bar is available to all guests from 6 – 8 p.m.; VIP ticket holders have an open bar from 6 – 10 p.m. in the VIP area only.

Tickets: $50 GA ($65 at the door)/$100 VIP Location: Generations Hall 310 Andrew Higgins Dr. Contact: 504-821-7134, bridgehouse.org/events/mr-legs/ JULY 19

WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES

Benefits: WYES Event Info.: WYES Kicks off the 29TH Year of SEASON OF GOOD TASTES. Local Restaurants Donate Dinner in Support of Local PBS Member Station WYES-TV WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES announces its 29th year of wine tasting dinners at seven of New Orleans’ iconic restaurants. This season, from January 2022 through July 2022, guests can select restaurants that highlight a wide variety of cuisines —everything from Crawfish Cakes to Gulf Seafood Uttapam to Korean Slow Cooked Duck to Crispy Braised Lamb to Bread Pudding Beignets. Each dinner is specially created by the chef to pair with the wines being served that evening. These popular dinners quickly sell out.

Dinner prices vary from $100$150 and include tax and gratuity. WYES SEASON OF GOOD TASTES is possible through the support from our generous sponsors: Caire Hotel & Restaurant Supply, Thompson Meats, Community Coffee and A.J.’s Produce Co. Inc. Tickets: $100-$150 Location: 7 participating restaurants Contact: wyes.org/events/ JULY 22-24

New Orleans Spirits Competition (NOSC) Presented by Tales of a Cocktail

Benefits: Local bartenders and restaurants Event Info.: The New Orleans Spirits Competition is an international spirits competition that aims to bring wider recognition to fine spirits among top-flight bartenders worldwide. The

competition was founded and is administered by three spirits industry veterans: Andrew Faulkner (managing partner), Wayne Curtis (lead judge) and Matt Sharpe (director of operations).

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is pleased to be a presenting partner for this new global call for recognizing spirits. Held this year in coordination with Tales of the Cocktail’s 20-year anniversary, the competition is open to all classes of spirits, domestic

and international — whiskey, gin, brandy, baijiu, vodka, rum, agave spirits, liqueurs – as well as the emerging class of non-alcoholic spirits. Registration for this year’s event is now open, with a deadline of May 10 for international entrants, and June 24 for domestic producers.

Tickets: n/a Location: throughout New Orleans Contact: nolaspiritscomp.com

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

49

C e le b rat io n H ow to H os t

Mother's Day Many mothers and grandmothers will find themselves alone for this annual holiday that has taken on a high level of importance in our society. If one such lady is in your orbit, operate on the assumption that this “holiday” is a loaded one for her and she could use some love. Do something nice. Invite her to your gathering, cook, bake a little extra, order an additional portion to share or make a bouquet. Your efforts may amount to the difference between a day that is bearable and one that is excruciating. A kind gesture from one person can change another’s life.

Here are some ideas for sharing with the special women in your life on this mother of all holidays.

By Jyl Benson

Who Doesn’t Love a Crawfish Boil?

Mother’s Day marks the twilight of crawfish season. How fortuitous that crawfish hatchlings in the fall of 2021 met with mild temperatures and grew with purpose, resulting in a hefty crop and a long season. Like the crawfish ritual but dislike the very considerable amount of work that goes into a boil? The Clesi Cater Trailer is at the ready to cater crawfish boils from 30 to 300—with the ability to cook 900 pounds at once— with traditional sides—sausage, corn, potatoes, mushrooms and garlic.

Clesi’s Seafood Restaurant & Catering, 4323 Bienville St., 504-909-0108, clesicatering.com

Flower Power New Orleans floral designer extraordinaire Destiny Pinson of Doris Ione (her grandmothers’ names) has established a flower club offering weekly, bi-weekly and monthly flower delivery subscriptions for homes, retail spaces and restaurants. Each arrangement is lovingly made in studio using fresh, seasonal flowers, most of which are locally grown at flower farms. Every delivery arrives with a list of flowers included in the arrangement, so recipients will gain a bit of floral knowledge as well. Doris Ione, dorisione.com, contact Hello@Dorisione.com for more information.

Photo taken at The Sully Mansion.

Uncommon Jewelry Holly Williams made her home in New Orleans after years of soul searching and world travels. With a design degree from Rutgers University, she founded Small Change Finery in 2010. She is inspired by strangely beautiful objects such as vintage carpentry tools, native species, natural materials, and found objects that she then casts or renders in brass or sterling silver. Her designs are cruelty-free and inherently unique.

Small Change Finery, smallchangefinery.com Oculus Necklace, original casting with Ostrich's eye socket in sterling silver/88 and yellow brass/78

50 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

When All Else Fails – Reservations When it opened its door in late 2018, Couvant was notable for the striking design work of Stonehill Taylor that incorporated the existing architectural elements of a space that once housed the original Peychaud Bitters factory and the Daily Picayune newspaper with contemporary sensibilities. Also noteworthy was Couvant’s classic French Brasserie menu, a rarity in a city with a strong French foundational identity. These elements are firmly planted now that Couvant has reopened following a pandemic-necessitated closure. Menu highlights include Pate en Croute (Duck and pork, dried fruit mostarda and pickles), Brioche Crusted Veal (milk-fed Veal in a crisp brioche crust, crushed potatoes, king trumpet mushrooms and sauce Diable) and a show-stopping Cote de Boeuf for two (pan-roasted, dry-aged ribeye, bone marrow crusted potato gratin, roasted mushrooms and a black garlic bordelaise). There is also a private dining room.

Couvant, 315 Magazine St, 504-342-2316, couvant.com

Natural Healing Forged in Friendship Rare Beauty Elysian on Magazine Street carries one-of-a-kind, handmade goods including hand-painted ceramic tableware, silk table linens, and housewares originating in Turkey and Central Anatolia. Clothing and accessories include slides and sneakers made of silk and silk velvet textiles, luxury silk velvet totes in fresh patterns and designs, and robes and caftans for effortless style at home.

Elysian by Emily Morrison, 3701 Magazine St., 504-874-2628, elysianbyem.com

Diana “Dia” Morari’s Romanian grandmother had a natural cure for everything. She taught her granddaughter to make a restorative liniment of ground comfrey root and white lily petals from her garden she would then massage into her feet, which ached from the long hours she spent each day working the orchards and gardens that nourished her family in Frumosu, Romania. That liniment became the inspiration for Madonna Lily, the gorgeous, lavishly scented line of all-natural selfcare products Dia launched with her best friend Raluka “Ralu” Giurgiutiu, out of their Midcity kitchen.

The friends’ growing product line is diversified to address different ailments and includes natural serums, masks, oils and exfoliants for face; serums, scrubs, butters and lotion bars for body; and soaks and “teas” for bath. Each product is imbued with essential oils known for their healing, relaxing, calming, or energizing properties, and incorporates either whole or crushed dried flowers for their fragrance, texture and healing properties. Use the code NOLALOCAL for free shipping on anything in New Orleans. Madonna Lily, madonnalily.com

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

51

C e le b rat io n W i t h T hi s Rin g

Kullman—Johnson

By Megan Holt

Years ago, Cameron Adolph Johnson was a senior chaperone on a high school freshmen class trip to Washington, D.C. One of the freshmen was Ginny Leigh Kullman. The two met during that trip, and Cameron developed a bit of a crush on Ginny, but romance didn’t blossom until much later.

During a Mardi Gras party at the Tchoup Yard in 2017, the two were reintroduced by a mutual friend. In true Mardi Gras fashion, Cameron called Ginny for the first time while on the float lining up for Chaos and asked her out to dinner. After the chaos of Carnival had settled, they had their first date at Dick & Jenny’s.

That first date led to another and another, and three years later Cameron decided to propose. He planned an intimate moment for just the two of them on the morning of Ginny’s birthday. They were having breakfast, and Ginny was opening her gifts. She opened one package to find a gorgeous engagement ring, and Cameron proposed right then over pancakes!

The couple so enjoyed the private moment of the proposal that they decided it would set the tone for an intimate wedding with very few in attendance, which took place on January 25, 2020. After the small ceremony at the Kullmans’ home, the newlyweds began planning a reception to celebrate the important milestone in their lives. Little did they know that, thanks to a global pandemic, they would have a good deal of time to plan. That planning led to a celebration of both their second anniversary and a return to normalcy after COVID. The festivities began the evening before the big celebration, with a lavish cocktail party at the Chapel Club at Hotel Saint Vincent hosted by friends of Ginny’s parents.

After that event, some morning yoga was essential to get ready for a reception two years in the making.

On January 29, 2022, Cameron and Ginny welcomed everyone to the renovated cathedral at Hotel Peter and Paul. The large stained-glass windows and patina of the beautifully maintained walls provided a lovely background, accented by floral arrangements from Dunn & Sonnier. Guests gushed over the catering from Bacchanal, especially the passed ceviche with pepper brunoise, jalapeño puree and micro cilantro, as well as gambas al ajillo (gulf shrimp with garlic, sherry wine, and chili flakes).

The perfect complement to the delicious food were two cakes created by Bywater Bakery--a lemon doberge wedding cake and a chocolate doberge groom’s cake.

The sugary goodness was fuel for a night of dancing

52 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

kicked off by Cameron and Ginny’s first dance to “Beyond” by Leon Bridges.

After many, many more dances, the celebration continued with an after party at Anna’s.

Though they have yet to take a honeymoon, the party taught Ginny and

Cameron that delayed celebrations are sometimes the best celebrations! While they plan their next adventure, they are enjoying life in New Orleans, where Cameron is a project manager at Boh Brothers and Ginny is an ophthalmologist at Ochsner. ✦

Wedding Coordinator: Lindsey Flores at Hotel Peter and Paul Wedding Planner: Katie Dunn at La Fête Wedding Gown: Maticevski - Joseph’s Groom’s Attire: Suit from Perlis Engagement Ring & Wedding Bands: Aucoin Heart Invitation: Scriptura Photographer: Casey McMurray Hair: Casie Caillouet & David Falcon Makeup: Tisa Music: The Essentials Band

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

53

C e le b rat io n Lo o k in g B ack

May Day Celebrations

By Seale Paterson

Since Medieval times, May Day and May Festival celebrations have been held to greet the arrival of spring.

The European custom carried over to America, and of course to New Orleans, a city that never hesitates at a chance to throw a party.

Some of the earliest press accounts of local children’s May festivities appeared in the 1860s. A Grand Children’s Ball was held at the Opera House in May of 1866, with music, a grand tableau, and of course, the crowing of the May Queen. In the 1870s, schools and churches of varied denominations were repeating these scenes in neighborhood halls as popular fundraisers.

Songs and recitations, refreshments, live music and comedy, and

54 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

maypole dances were added to make more elaborate festivities.

Throughout the 1910s-20s, it seemed like everyone was hosting a May festival. A 1913 Elks sponsored party had over 500 children – many in fancy costumes – present to enjoy a full orchestra, games on the lawn, and maypole and other dances. This grand event, called the May Day Romp, carried on into the 1920s, often held at City Park, growing larger and more extravagant every year with the addition of Humpty Dumpty, clowns, free ice cream and sporting contests.

An equally grand annual event at Audubon Park featured maypole and spring dances, in which children represented flowers, fairies

The Children’s May Festival in 1917 at Taylor Playground in Broadmoor.

This bird of peace float was the third-place winner of the float contest.

Image by John T. Mendes. Provided courtesy of the John T. Mendes Photograph Collection, The Historic New Orleans Collection, Gift of Waldemar S. Nelson. 2003.0182.99 and sunbeams. Decorated bike and flower parades were also a big draw; 15,000 were in attendance in 1921. Tulane University also hosted an annual event on campus for faculty, staff and their children.

Starting in 1916, playgrounds took the celebrations to a new level, involving citywide queen elections and parades starting at City Hall to mark the opening of the playground season.

Decorated bikes served as minifloats, and the mayor’s office was

always represented. Maypole dances would end the day.

One final attempt to throw to a yearly citywide May Children’s Festival was hosted by the New Orleans Better Films Chapter.

The first was held in 1937, and it ran for about 5 years; fundraising was intended to create a children’s movie theater.

While a few schools continued to host some May Day events, by the 1950s the tradition had largely died out. ✦

SPONSORED

JUST FoR

KiDS

Glamping on the Geaux Glampingonthegeaux@gmail.com 504-321-1440 Kids can sleep over in style this summer with Glamping on the Geaux’s mermaid themed package! A one stop shop for party needs, Glamping on the Geaux offers an array themed glamping packages, spa add-ons, decorations, and more.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

55

SPONSORED

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

Ballin’s LTD

BallinsLTD.com 2917 Magazine Street, New Orleans 721 Dante Street, New Orleans 504-891-4502 Make this Mother’s Day with the Vienna Pendant, an ornate oval-shaped pendant with gilded lacy openwork suspended from a beautifully textured chain.

Art & Eyes

ArtandEyesNewOrleansLA.com 3708 Magazine Street, New Orleans 504-891-4494 @art.and.eyes NINA MUR FRAMES. Handmade, to order from Madrid, Spain! Made from wood, titanium and resin … lightweight, sustainable, and oh so pretty!

56 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

Sazerac House Museum

SazeracHouse.com 101 Magazine Street, New Orleans 504-910-0100 Cocktail Garnishes Travel Pouch, $15. Zip up travel pouch for storing all of your essentials featuring illustrations of cocktail garnishes by Kate Lacour.

SPONSORED

Monomin

Symmetry Jewelers

Monomin.com 2104 Magazine Street, New Orleans 504-827-1269 Scalloped Dolce Hat by Lack of Color, $138. The scalloped, sunshine, sea-loving sun hat of your dreams. Made from a golden wheat straw weave, this dome crown sun hat is perfect for days spent in the sunshine.

SymmetryJewelers.com 8138 Hampson Street, New Orleans 504-861-9925 24k gold-plated sterling cuff bracelet, featuring tiny delicate flowers by designer Bernd Wolf, 1.25" wide, $100.

PERLIS Clothing BLEU, a Blowdry Bar

BleuaBlowDryBar.com 701 Metairie Road #112, Metairie 504-309-5999 Gift the lady in your life what she really wants this Mother’s Day. BLEU gift cards never expire and are good towards services, products and even gratuity.

Perlis.com 6070 Magazine Street, New Orleans 1281 N Causeway Blvd, Mandeville 8366 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge 800-725-6070 Comfort Mom with the all-day, every-day Mari sandal ... stylish versatility from beach to bistro. Features softer-than-soft full-grain leather and generous memory foam padding. Also available in black.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

57

SPONSORED

The Shop at the Collection

Hnoc.org 520 Royal St., New Orleans 504-523-4662 Small sterling silver magnolia necklace, $75.

JADE

Jade.shoplightspeed.com 324 Metairie Road, Metairie 504-875-4420 These are handmade ceramic flowers & succulents, each one of a kind to adorn your wall or simply to lay on a stack of books. Create your own sculpture. Unlimited shapes, colors, and sizes. Purchase them at jade.shoplightspeed.com.

Dagostino

DagostinoPasta.com 504-242-8888 Spoil mom with the gift of authentic Italian food. The Creole Italian Feast Box from Dagostino Pasta Company makes the perfect gift – better yet, use the handmade ingredients to prepare her a gourmet meal. Visit dagostinopasta.com, $36.99.

58 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

SPONSORED

Lee Michaels

Lmfj.com 3301 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Suite 11-B, Metairie 504-832-0000 David Yurman sculpted cable cuff bracelet with pave diamonds, retail value - $1,800.

Boudreaux Jewelers

BoudreauxJewelers.com 701 Metairie Road, Metairie 504-831-2602 Jude Frances mixed metal bracelet collection, starting at $780.

Indigo Boutique

ShopIndigoBoutique.com 605 Metairie Road, Suite C, Metairie 1795 Martin Luther King Blvd, Suite B, Houma 504-635-7874 Bracha 14k-gold-plated, non-tarnishing, hypoallergenic, and waterproof jewelry for everyday wear. Sold exclusively at Indigo Boutique.

Swap Boutique

SwapBoutique.com 5530 Magazine Street, New Orleans 7716 Maple Street, New Orleans 504-304-6025 Shopping for Mom is fashionable and easy at two Uptown locations of Swap Boutique where today's top designer fashions are available in two great shops. Visit today and find the gift and style you want.

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

59

60 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

PR RE EM M II E ER RP PR RO OP PE ER R TT II E ES S P

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

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

61

PR REEM MIIEER R P

LISTED $1,059,000

SOLD $1,030,000

JEANNE BOUGHTON RE/MAX N.O. Properties Associate Broker 8001 Maple St. New Orleans, LA 70118 Cell: 504-669-4773

62 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

Nestled on a quiet one-way street 2 blocks from Audubon Park and steps from St. Charles Ave, Bevelo lanterns welcome you to this special home. Gorgeous neutral tones on exterior and interior flow into the perfect family area; combined living and kitchen, eat-in island and marble countertops.

PR RO OP P EE R R TT II EE S S P

STCHARLESAVENUE.COM

63

C e le b rat io n F ini shin g Tou ches

Glow Up

Whether you're pampering mom or treating yourself, Spyre's new offerings will delight the senses

For the ultimate pre and post event glow, visit the recently opened Spyre Center for an array of offerings.

Spyre has curated a wide breadth of services and treatments to "address health concerns, embolden the spirit and balance the mind so that you can discover wellbeing your way."

From Ayurveda counseling to bodywork and energy healing with sound and vibrational therapy and holistic facials designed to address a variety of skin concerns, the center truly has something for everyone.

Spyre Center, 1772 Prytania St., 504900-0980, spyrecenter.com. ✦

64 ST. CHARLES AVENUE MAY 2022

IMAGE COURTESY OF PORTER LYONS.