St. Charles Avenue December 2012

december 2012

Herschel Abbott Jr., Greg Rusovich, Dr. Scott Cowen, Dana Hansel, Betsy Nalty and Dottie Reese

Volume 16 Issue 5

Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Tiffani Reding Beauty Columnist Cat Wall Aschaffenburg Society Columnist Shelby Westfeldt Associate Editors Haley Adams and Sarah Ravits Interns Johanna Gretschel Advertising Sales Manager Jill Varney Account Executive Carey Faust Sales Assistant Erin Maher Sales Intern Megan Peters Production/Web Manager Staci McCarty Production Designer Sarah George Administration Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President/Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde Executive Assistant Kristi Ferrante Distribution Manager Christian Coombs To subscribe or for office information: (504) 830-7231

A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC Printed in USA 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Ste. 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380

The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 2012 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for photos or artwork and assumes that all releases have been cleared upon submission to the magazine. St. Charles Avenue is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, La. 70005, (504) 828-1380. It is the policy of this magazine to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

6 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

on the web

{

saintcharlesavenue.com & myneworleans.com

}

Have Your Mags and Surf Them, Too We are proud to offer you the very best content, both printed and online. Renaissance Publishing offers you access to articles and images not just from St. Charles Avenue magazine, but from all of our print titles, as well as exclusive blogs and online columns. MyNewOrleans. com is your portal to all you need to know about lifestyle, dining, music, nightlife, homes, bridal information and more.

Visit us online, and be sure to check out the rebirth of Gulf Coast Wine + Dine in its new digital format, as well as our award-winning blogs:

R Mondays: Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde, three-time winner of the Alex Waller Award for print journalism, provides weekly commentary in “The Editor’s Room,” named “Best Local Blog” by the Press Club of New Orleans.

R Two-for-One Thursdays: MyNewOrleans.com’s dynamic duo of food-and-wine bloggers, Tim McNally and Robert Peyton, sounds off every Thursday on the latest news in high times and fine dining.

R Fridays: Eve Kidd Crawford – award-winning Managing Editor for Louisiana Life, New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles and Acadiana Profile – writes about what it means to be a family in New Orleans.

R Every other Tuesday, St. Charles Avenue editor Morgan Packard authors a biweekly column on Uptown Life, including parties, charity fundraisers and more.

R Sign Up for our Electronic Newsletter Get the latest blogs, magazine content and calendar information delivered straight to your inbox!

!

R Post a Comment to an Article Like what you’ve read? Share your insight in our online forum at SaintCharlesAvenue.com.

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 7

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

1

2

3

4 1. Brooks Braselman and honoree Lin Emery 2. Field and Michelle Ogden with Raelynn and Peter Loop 3. Julia Reed, Margaret Keith Smythe Meacham and co-chair Anna Beth Goodman 4. John Georges, Dathel Coleman and Bill Goldring 5.

Barbara Delanova, Nicholas Lowry and William and Stacie Andrews 6.

Troy Scroggins and Peggy Stafford 7.

An overview of the patron party

O, What a Night to Remember The Ogden Museum of Southern Art celebrates Southern art, music and cuisine.

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art honored Southern art, music and cuisine on Saturday, October 13 with its “O What a Night Gala” at the museum. The annual celebration of Southern culture raises funds for the museum’s exhibitions and educational initiatives.

Chef Donald Link of New Orleans’ Herbsaint and Cochon, and Chef Chris Hastings of Birmingham’s Hot & Hot Fish

Club – both James Beard awardwinners – dished out the best cuisine that the South has to offer with duck, Louisiana shrimp risotto and persimmon panna cotta for dessert.

The forefront of the affair was the art, with 58 artists spotlighted in the silent auction and 15 items in the live auction. One of the most hotly contested items was an original drawing to be created on the winner’s wall by artist James

Surls, who specializes in organic human sculptures and drawings.

New Orleans kinetic sculpture artist Lin Emery garnered the top honor of the evening with the presentation of The Opus Award.

Founded in 2007, the award is bequeathed annually to an artist whose work has, over a lifetime, helped to shape and influence the cultural landscape of the South.

The night concluded with

an ensemble send-off from the “O What a Night Gala” All-Star Band, featuring David Torkanowsky, Theresa Andersson, Leslie Smith, Luther Kent, Shane Theriot and more. F

{

event at a glance

}

What: “O What a Night Gala,” benefiting the Ogden Museum of Southern Art When: Saturday, October 13 Where: The Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Photographed by cheryl gerber

20 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

5

6

7

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 21

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

1

2

3 1. Director Susan Taylor, Cammie Mayer, Pam and Dr. Ralph Lupin and Pam Buckman 2. Gail Asprodites, Carol Short, Kay McArdle, Joanna Giorlando and Elizabeth Haecker Ryan 3. Jim Cook, co-chair Margaret Jones, Cara Banasch, Ashley McCoy and co-chair Karen Gundlach 4.

Beth Mabey, Chet Pourciau and Brooke Minto 5. Mitchell Gaudet, Miranda Lake, George Schmidt, Rashida Ferdinand and George Dunbar 6. Walda and Sydney Besthoff with Brooke Minto

Falling in LOVE at NOMA

New Orleans Museum of Art hosts its eighth annual “LOVE in the Garden.”

Ancient oaks cast a romantic fervor over the New Orleans Museum of Art’s eighth annual “LOVE in the Garden” celebration on Friday, September 28, where guests dined, drank and danced under the stars in the Sculpture Garden.

The sultry jazz sounds of Sasha Masakowski set the tone for the patron party, and later John Boutte and his famous “Treme Song” started the dancing off further inside the decorated park for the garden

party. The 610 Stompers performed their signature moves, priming the crowd to get down to the spins of DJ Soul Sister.

Guests also enjoyed unlimited food and libations from more than 30 of the city’s top restaurants and caterers.

NOMA Director Susan Taylor recognized the night’s honorees – local artists George Dunbar, Rashida Ferdinand, Mitchell Gaudet, Miranda Lake and George Schmidt – for their impact on the cultural

22 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

community of New Orleans. A video display of the artists’ work played throughout the night for partygoers to enjoy.

All proceeds from the successful event benefit NOMA’s

{

event at a glance

Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Funds went to maintenance of the grounds to keep the garden free and open to the public seven days a week. F

}

What: Eighth annual “LOVE in the Garden,” benefiting the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden When: Friday, September 28 Where: Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

Photographed by melissa calico

4

5

6

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 23

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

1

2 1. Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne with co-chairs Jennifer and Dennis Lauscha 2. Co-chairs Tony and Katherine Gelderman 3. Dana Hansel and Tommy Westervelt with Mary and Miles Pollard 4. Steve and Melanee Usdin 5. Cristel Kelley, Alma Slatten, Ryan Owl Dwyer and Melissa Steiner 6. Suzanne Dumez and Bitsie Mouton with Scott and Janet Howard

3

Legendary Performances “Louisiana Legends of Rock and Roll” gala goes back in time.

It may not be 1956 anymore, but at the U.S. Old Mint on Friday, October 5, there was a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on.

Levi Kreis and Brandon Bennett transported patrons back in time with their performances at the Louisiana Museum Foundation’s “Louisiana Legends of Rock and Roll” gala. Both artists have won accolades for their impersonations of Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley, respectively: Kreis won

the 2010 Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Lewis in Million Dollar Quartet, and Elvis Presley Enterprises named Bennett, a Louisiana native, the 2008 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist.

Bennett currently stars in Chicago’s Apollo Theater production of Million Dollar Quartet.

Million Dollar Quartet is a hit musical based on the impromptu one-day jam session between

24 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Sam Perkins.

The “Million Dollar Quartet” super group all happened to be at Sun Record Studios on Tuesday, December 4, 1956, and recorded 46 musical tracks together.

The Louisiana Museum Foundation organized the event to benefit the Louisiana State Museum’s world-acclaimed music exhibit, which has been in storage since Hurricane Katrina. With

more than $200,000 raised at the event, the exhibit is slotted to reopen in 2014. F

{ } event at a glance

What: “Louisiana Legends of Rock and Roll” gala, benefiting the Louisiana Museum Foundation When: Friday, October 5 Where: Old U.S. Mint

Photographed by steven hronek

4

5

6

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 25

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

2

1

3

1. Joy and Judge Jay Zainey, Gigi, Marian and Larry Gibbs 2. Monica Surpremant, Rachel Piercey and Mark Surpremant 3.

Mark Vicknaire, JFAB committee chair Mindy Brickman Patron and honorary co-chairs Fionuala McGlinchey-Monsted and Dierdre McGlinchey 4. Rachel Wisdom, Jenny Christopher, Phil Wittmann, Laura Walker Plunkett and Bill Plunkett 5. David and Mary Halpren, Jan Hayden and Jerry Montalbano 6.

Susan and Woody Norwood, with other guests

Jammin’ for Justice

The Pro Bono Project’s 24th annual “Justice for All Ball” rocks through the night.

The Pro Bono Project held its 24th annual “Justice for All Ball” (JFAB) on Friday, September 28, at the Audubon Tea Room.

The premier event in the legal community drew 600 judges, lawyers and private citizens and raised more than $180,000. All proceeds benefit the Pro Bono Project’s continuing mission to provide legal services free of charge to those who cannot afford it.

Opening act Ovi’G & the Froggies (Los Ranas) kicked off the event, and headliner Big Sam’s Funky Nation kept the party rocking until midnight. There was food for every palate, as Audubon Tea Room and more than 30 other area restaurants provided appetizers, drinks and dinner.

Many patrons went home with swag, as the silent auction boasted nearly 30 items and more than

50 raffle prize packages. Lucky guest Julie Tizzard was the highest bidder on the original oil painting of the 2012 JFAB’s invitation art, local artist Robert Guthrie’s rendering of Lady Justice.

As the JFAB Committee Chair, Mindy Brickman Patron spearheaded what is the Pro Bono Project’s largest fundraiser of the year. Honorary co-chairs Fionuala McGlinchey-Monsted

and Deirdre McGlinchey are daughters of the late Dermot S. McGlinchey, co-founder of the Pro Bono Project. F

{

event at a glance

}

What: 24th annual “Justice for All Ball,” benefiting the Pro Bono Project When: Friday, September 28 Where: Audubon Tea Room

Photographed by cheryl gerber

26 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

4

5

6

Photographed by mary margaret gorman

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 27

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

2

1

3

4

1. Daryl Byrd, Placido Domingo and José Suquet 2. V. Price and Christine LeBlanc with Pam and Dr. Ralph Lupin 3. Robert Lyall and hostess Patricia Clarkson 4. Sammy Steele III and Jude Swenson

A Night at the Opera

New Orleans Opera Association celebrates 50 years with Placido Domingo.

The “Placido Domingo Gala,” a concert hosted by the New Orleans Opera Association at Mahalia Jackson Theater on Friday, October 12, celebrated 50 years of the Spanish tenor’s performances with the company.

The international tour de force of stars accompanying Domingo included American mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe, Puerto Rican soprano Ana Maria Martinez, Mexican tenor David Lomeli and

New Orleans’ own soprano Sarah Jane McMahon.

Mayor Mitch Landrieu and Academy Award-nominated actress and New Orleans native Patricia Clarkson hosted the nearly sold-out event. After the concert, more than 300 premium ticket holders enjoyed a gourmet meal at the Roosevelt Hotel’s Waldorf Astoria Ballroom with Domingo and the rest of the cast.

The soothing sounds of strings

28 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

and a harp from the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra provided ambiance for a decadent dinner.

An opera cake in commemoration of the 50th anniversary topped off the meal.

Patrons at the dinner received an engraved silver picture frame, engraved binoculars or engraved champagne flutes, courtesy of Lee Michaels Jewelry &

{

Gifts. The jeweler also presented Domingo, the man of the hour, with an exclusive Lladro Classic Figurines Jazz Trio. F

event at a glance

}

What: “Placido Domingo Gala,” benefiting the New Orleans Opera Association When: Friday, October 12 Where: Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts

Photographed by melissa calico

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 29

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

2

1

3

4

1. Co-chairs Pat and Joanie Browne and Marti and Parke McEnery 2. Chris Sullivan, foundation director Courtney Nalty, Graham Ralston and Polly Thomas 3.

William H. Shannon, Sharon Schmidt, Alan Philipson and Kim Austin 4. Greg Wyrick, Rosemarie Coffman, Carol McCall and Susan Johnson

Broadway Street Showboat

Lambeth House Foundation raised $64,000 at its fifth annual gala.

A handsome cardboard captain greeted guests from the red carpet onto the gangplank of his ocean liner at the “Showboat on Broadway Gala” on Thursday, October 11. The Lambeth House’s fifth annual gala generated $64,000 for the continuing care retirement community.

The smooth croons of the Yat Pack set the mood outside for patio dining and dancing, while acclaimed pianist Jeffrey Pounds

performed in the parlor. The entire area was outfitted in magnolia and cotton branches to evoke the sense of a steamboat traveling north.

“The Lambeth House is so close to a river that we just went with that idea to make guests feel that they were on a boat,” says Lambeth House Foundation Director Courtney Nalty.

The guests, both residents and outside visitors, enjoyed edibles from the Lambeth House’s own

chef John Joffe. The swanky eats featured such delicacies as duck confit on sweet potato gaufrettes – a homemade waffle-like potato chip – with sundried cranberry compote as an hors d’oeuvre to the main event, a bountiful buffet of jumbo lump crab cakes with remoulade sauce, grilled pork medallions with cream à la forestière and much more. For dessert, crêpes were made to order.

The fundraiser marked the Lambeth House’s 14th anniversary. A December board meeting will decide how to appropriate the funds. F

{

event at a glance

}

What: Fifth annual “Showboat on Broadway,” benefiting Lambeth House.

When: Thursday, October 11 Where: Lambeth House

Photographed by melissa calico

30 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 31

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

1

2

4

3

1. Valerie Marcus and Thomas Westervelt 2. Sonny Shields with co-chair Susan and Jimmy Gundlach 3.

Michael Olson, Chris Wiseman and Luis Zervigon 4. Co-chair Betsy Nalty, Dick Simmons and Anne Redd

Giving New Meaning to Pop Art Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities hosts a pop-up art show and auction.

If restaurants and bars can exist as temporary pop-ups inside other establishments, why not use the same formula for a charity fundraiser? Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities Board Chair Kevin Kelly did just that on Thursday, October 4, by hosting “An Artful Pop-Up” art show and silent auction inside his St. Charles Avenue garage.

Houmas House Plantation supplied food and City Wholesale

Liquors took care of libations, but the night was all about art.

Native Louisianian artists Jacqueline Bishop, Douglas Bourgeois, George Dureau, Lin Emery, Sarah Allen Freeman and Simon Gunning contributed art to the auction. The multi-talented M. Cleland Powell III, Vice Chair of the LEH, donated 20 of his own paintings to the event.

Seventeen artworks were purchased at the silent auction

nization’s mission as, “to provide to yield a total of $18,250 to all Louisianans with access to benefit LEH public humanities and an appreciation of their own programming, with Lin Emery’s “Butterfly” the most hotly contested rich, shared and diverse historical, literary and cultural heritage.” F with a high bid of $3,500.

The LEH was founded in 1972 as the state affiliate of the National Endowment event at a glance for the Humanities.

What: ”An Artful Pop-Up,” sponsored LEH Director of by the Louisiana Endowment for the Public Relations and Humanities Programs Brian Boyles When: Thursday, October 4 described the orgaWhere: Home of Board Chair Kevin Kelly

{

}

Photographed by melissa calico

32 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 33

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

1

2 1. Jane Steiner and Peter Sperling 2. Jon and JCC co-chair Debbie Schlackman with Richard Buchsbaum and Johnny Dennis 3. Deena Gerber and Benay Bernstein with Carole and Morton Katz 4.

Morris and Cathy Bart with Carrie and Austin Marks

4

3

A Night Fit for Champions

JCC, JFS and Tulane Hillel join forces for a fundraiser in Champions Square.

The New Orleans Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans and Tulane Hillel joined forces on Saturday, October 6, to put on “An Evening of Champions … 3 Teams. 1 Goal” at Club XLIV in Champions Square.

The ultra-modern lounge, just steps away from the MercedesBenz Superdome, featured spins from DJ Lance Sherlock of P2 Entertainment and gourmet tailgating fare catered by Chef

Rommel Hernandez.

Fox 8 investigative reporter Lee Zurik led the heated live sports and entertainment auction, which, together with ticket sales, met fundraising goals for the three Jewish agencies.

Hotly contested items included a diamond tennis bracelet donated by the Rothschilds, a sapphire and diamond ring donated by K. Miller Gem & Jewelry Brokerage, an in-home feast prepared by Chef Jacques Leonardi of Jacques-

50,000 New Orleans residents, Imo’s, a Blue Dog print signed serving both the Jewish community

by Drew Brees, as well as many and the New Orleans community priceless sports memorabilia items. at large, regardless of religion, race One lucky raffle winner scored or gender. F a pair of tickets to the Sugar and Super bowls, both match-ups to be held at the Superdome event at a glance early next year.

What: “An Evening of Champions … 3 Teams.

The JCC, 1 Goal,” benefiting New Orleans Jewish JFS and Tulane Community Center, Jewish Family Service of Hillel collecGreater New Orleans and Tulane Hillel tively reach When: Saturday, October 6 more than

{

Where: Club XLIV at Champions Square

}

Photographed by melissa calico

34 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 35

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

1

2

1. Luncheon co-chair Jeanie Favret and auction co-chair Kathi Zimmerman 2. Vicki Lee, Sandy Saucier and Dottie Schule 3. Honorary luncheon chair Cindy Wooderson, Joan Ingram and Sandra Chaisson 4. Carolyn D’Antonio, Maria Winn and Eileen Capritto

4

3

Costuming for a Cause

St. Elizabeth’s Guild hosts a luncheon and fashion show for Catholic Charities.

It was a bit early for Halloween, but WDSU news anchor Norman Robinson strutted his best Village People “biker dude” ensemble down the runway as part of the celebrity fashion show at the St. Elizabeth’s Guild Volunteer Activists Awards luncheon on Wednesday, October 10.

Along with Robinson, WDSU Chief Meteorologist Margaret Orr, Chef Andrea Apuzzo of Andrea’s Restaurant, Mike Maenza of Mr. Mudbug Catering and artist

Terrance Osbourne showed off their “YMCA” and “Macho Man” dance moves.

The Volunteer Activists of 2012 included Gayle M. Benson, Nicki M. Candies, Jim LaPorte, Sharon M. Marchand, Marcy F. Mayeaux, Cynthia Molynuex, Jamie Anne Moreau, Cindy Paulin, Stan Salathe and R. Sonda Stacey.

St. Elizabeth’s Guild president Suzette Herpich and chairwomen Cynthia Aucoin and Kathy Mitchell also honored Leah Lang Chase,

36 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Acme Oyster House.

Yvonne Ross Coe and Betty Valker The event raised more than Lauricella as Hall of Fame Activists. $100,000 for Café Hope, Cathy DeGeorge won the Independent Living Skills Program, Terrance Osbourne double-signed Padua Pediatrics and St. John the Jazz Festival poster in the auction, Baptist Community Center; all are while Sandy Saucier was the high Catholic Charities programs. F bidder on a party at the Who Dat Shack, generously event at a glance donated by What: “St. Elizabeth’s Guild Volunteer Maenza of Activists Awards” luncheon and fashion show, Mr. Mudbug benefiting Catholic Charities programs. and Lucien When: Wednesday, October 10 Gunter of Where: New Orleans Hilton Grand Ballroom

{

}

Photographed by steven hronek

philanthropic fun

By Johanna Gretschel

1

2 1. Honorary co-chairs Keith Stokes, Cathy Kahn and Theresa Stokes 2. Carlette Williams and Dr. Rodrek Williams 3. Mike Stern, Marigny Ernst and Dr. Michael Adinolfi 4.

Andrew Jacobs and Betsy Rubenstein with Dotty and honoree Marvin Jacobs and Barbara Aland

4

3

Reliable Health Care for Life 2012 Touro “Here for Life Gala” celebrates the infirmary’s 160th anniversary.

Touro Infirmary celebrated 160 years on Saturday, October 13, with their “Here for Life Gala.”

Since philanthropist Judah Touro founded his namesake as a 28-bed hospital for immigrants, slaves and port travelers, the institution has remained a staple as the city’s only community and faith-based nonprofit hospital.

The soulful jazz of the Preservation All-Stars featuring Leroy Jones welcomed guests to the Marriot Hotel’s Grand Ballroom, where they enjoyed

a steak dinner catered by the Marriot and an open bar sponsored by Republic National Distributing Company.

The event raised more than $300,000 for Touro Infirmary Foundation’s program services via ticket sales and a silent auction that included a stunning necklace donated by Valobra Jewelry and Antiques. The elegant accessory, which featured blue topaz and diamonds on a 14 karat white gold chain, fetched $2,500.

The Honorary Chairs were

Walda Besthoff, Linda Mintz and Joel Weinstock, descendants of Touro founding physician Dr. Joseph Bensadon; Keith Stokes, a descendant of Judah Touro; and Cathy Kahn, whose grandparents met at the first Touro fundraiser in 1880.

The gala’s honorary chairs were on hand to present the Judah Touro Society Award to Marvin L. “Buddy” Jacobs for his service to Touro.

The local businessman has been involved with Touro

since 1963, serving a term as president of the Touro Board of Managers from 1984-1986. He is an inaugural member of the Judah Touro Society. F

{

event at a glance What: 160th “Here for Life Gala,” benefiting Touro Infirmary Foundation When: Saturday, October 13 Where: New Orleans Marriott

}

Photographed by Melissa Calico

38 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 39

40 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 41

Dana Hansel

B

Awards: Bridge House, Queen Cochon XIII Cystic Fibrosis Leadership Award CityBusiness, Top Women in the Community Men of Fashion, Prix d’Elegance Award Young Leadership Council, Role Model and Honorary Role Model

Past and Present Organizations Art Council of New Orleans, former board member Citizens for 1 Greater New Orleans Contemporary Arts Center, former board member Council for a Better Louisiana, graduate of Leadership Louisiana program Dress for Success, former vice president Junior League of New Orleans Katrina Krewe, treasurer Krewe of Muses, former treasurer and membership co-chair Louisiana Museum Foundation, president Louisiana State University Department of Psychiatry Advisory Council, Emeril Lagasse Dinner co-chair and member Make-A-Wish Foundation, former board member

alancing leadership positions in a wide variety of organizations is a complicated act, but long-time activist Dana Hansel makes it look effortless. She sums up her commitment to bettering the city quite simply: “Those who can, should.”

Hansel’s civic involvement began during her childhood in Monroe. Being the only girl among four brothers, she had an independent spirit. Her ability to multi-task was apparent even as a teenager, when she juggled numerous school activities with academics and graduated as her high school’s valedictorian. Hansel credits her hard-working parents for her drive. “[They] fostered independence, responsibility and ownership,” she notes.

Hansel has been the model of responsibility as a New Orleanian. Amidst a successful 20-year career, including running investor relations at a top-ranked national bank and heading commercial lending at a local bank, her civic engagement never wavered. Even when she launched a consulting company, HBK LLC, nearly two years ago, she remained dedicated to a plethora of efforts, and has chaired numerous fundraisers in the city including “Art In Bloom,” “Soul Revival,” the Saks Fifth Avenue “Key to the Cure” and many more.

In all of her work, Hansel prefers a hands-on approach. “Whether it be through my work as a Sunday school teacher or working with the Young Leadership Council, I love mentoring,” she beams. “I love guiding and working with people to envision a better future and then developing strategies to achieve those goals.”

Through Hansel’s passion for mentoring, she hopes to inspire a new generation of activists in New Orleans. “You’re only going to get out what you put in, and don’t be afraid to go take some risks and try things,” she advises those looking to forge a similar path. Hansel has a “pay it forward” philosophy that reminds her to always be thankful for what she has and to share those things with those less fortunate.

Even though her list of accomplishments is long and growing, Hansel easily pinpoints her proudest moment. “It was when my youngest stepson was giving the address at his high school graduation,” she recalls. “Seeing him grow from a child into a mature, balanced, smart, humorous man was warming inside.”

Family has always been Hansel’s priority, and through her activism, she has extended that nurturing attitude to the entire city of New Orleans.

Metairie Park Country Day, major gifts committee chair Metropolitan Leadership Forum, graduate National Small Business Administration Advisory Council Neighborhood Housing Services, former board member New Orleans Botanical Garden Foundation, board member New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, former board member New Orleans Museum of Art Volunteer Committee Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans, former board member United Way, former board member and United Way Women’s Leadership, board member Women of the Storm Women of Trinity Church, president World Trade Center, former board member Young Leadership Council, former president

herschel abbott jr.

H

erschel Abbott is a history buff. Whether he’s discussing his hero Winston Churchill or chairing a board meeting for the National World War II Museum, his penchant for commemorating the past fuels his drive to shape a better future.

“It is the indisputable fact that Churchill stood alone, and he rallied Britain to fight on when it was fighting on alone.” This dedication is apparent in all of Abbott’s work and is partly a product of his extensive law firm experience (he’s currently Special Counsel at Jones Walker).

Having grown up in Monroe and lived in multiple cities, Abbott is quick to call New Orleans home. “I fell in love with the city when I attended Tulane University – the people and the attitude toward life. It’s the only place I’d want to live.” Fortunately for New Orleans, he conveys this love through his involvement in a variety of organizations.

Among those organizations is St. Thomas Community Medical Center. “We do a lot of good in the community, and we’ve been able to provide medical care for people who would not otherwise receive it,” Abbott shares. “With the help of other organizations, we provide specialty care. That gives me a real source of pride and accomplishment.”

Abbott also has a passion for education and serves on the board for Dillard University. “What we’ve been able to at Dillard since Hurricane Katrina is nothing short of a miracle, and I’m very excited to be working with the new president [Walter Kimbrough].” Much of Abbott’s work in education has been in the museum sector.

Though he began his board chairmanship of the National World War II Museum last year, he has been involved with the institution for over a decade.

It is obvious that New Orleans is grateful for Abbott’s many contributions; in 2011, he was honored as Rex – a role he undertook with his usual gusto.

Working with so many organizations, Abbott is bound to face some obstacles, but his attitude keeps him moving forward. “Go around them,” he asserts.

“Better to ask forgiveness than to beg permission.”

There is one particular person from whom he seeks forgiveness. “The key ingredient to my activism is my patient and long-suffering wife,” he notes. It seems Abbott has trouble saying ‘no’ to civic commitments. “I have been very fortunate in life, and all of us have an obligation to pay back the community we live in.”

Past and Present Organizations (selection) Bach Consort, board member Baptist Community Ministries, board chair Blanchette Rockefeller Neuroscience Foundation, board member Board of Governors of Tulane Medical Center, former board chair Bureau of Governmental Research, board member Business Council of New Orleans and the River Region, former board chair Council for a Better Louisiana, regional vice president The Dean’s Council of Tulane Law School, board member Dillard University, board member Family Service of Greater New Orleans, former capital campaign chairman Governor of Society of Colonial Wars, deputy lieutenant Governors of Tulane University Medical Center, former board chair

Awards: Boy Scouts, Distinguished Citizens Award Holy Cross College, SPES Utica Award New Orleans Bar Association, President’s Award The Times-Picayune, Loving Cup

Holy Cross College President’s Advisory Board, member Lambeth House Foundation, former board chair and current board member Louisiana Museum Foundation, board member Metropolitan Crime Commission, board member Military and Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem in the Grand Priory of America, bailiff/chancellor National World War II Museum, board chair The President’s Council of Tulane University, board member Southeast Louisiana Council, Boy Scouts of America, former chair St. Thomas Community Health Center, board chair Tulane Shakespeare Festival, board member Vestry of Christ Church Cathedral, senior warden WYES-TV, former board chair and current chairman of the search committee

dottie reese

T

Awards: City of New Orleans, Certificate of Merit for Outstanding Service as an Influential Woman Data News, Trailblazer Award National Association of Social Workers – New Orleans Chapter, Dorothy Schenthal Leadership Award New Orleans Council for Community and Justice, Weiss Award New Orleans Medical Association Excellence in Health Care, Humanitarian and Community Service Award Louisiana Health Care, Social Worker of the Year Susan G. Komen Foundation, Cameo Award for Distinguished Leadership and Outstanding Service YWCA, Role Model Past and Present Organizations African American Women of Purpose and Power Crescent City Chapter of Links French Market Corporation, board member Human Relations Commission – City of New Orleans International Women’s Forum Jack and Jill of America, former president Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors

here is an undeniable spark in Dottie Reese’s eyes. Every time she talks about a cause she believes in, you can see the brilliant flicker – and it’s contagious.

“I believe in collective responsibility,” she shares. “Everyone has a responsibility to do something within their community to make it better. We all have to do something more than go home after a day of work and say, ‘Somebody should take care of that,’ and always look to somebody else to do it. We are the somebodies.”

Reese works with organizations that span support for breast cancer survivors, mentorship for young women and education for the community – all which she balances gracefully with DMM Associates, a consulting company she co-founded to improve performance in organizations. Behind her award-winning work in health care and social justice is a passion for fostering wellness, equity and opportunity in New Orleans.

Currently she serves as board chair for the Urban League of Greater New Orleans, where the mission is to empower minorities through economic development. “There is a lot of money that’s coming into New Orleans with the rebuild of the city, and we need to focus on making sure that people in New Orleans are a part of the workforce and that they can make a living wage.”

To achieve this harmony in the city, Reese believes in the power of education, be it through the organizations such as Susan G. Komen, International Women’s Forum, the Crescent City Chapter of Links, and the YWCA. Reese recalls a recent Links project, “We had an international cultural awareness day with about 800 school children.

We borrowed the big global balloon from the Children’s Museum and the Ashe Cultural Center loaned artifacts from Kenya and the Honorary Consul of South Africa provided artifacts from South Africa. It is so important in the enrichment of children to help them to see other cultures; the curiosity that gets piqued is wonderful.”

After long days of balancing community service with her consulting business, Reese enjoys coming home and cooking with her husband, Judge Kern Reese. “My family comes first and we support each other in all the things that we do.”

Yet, when each new day dawns, Reese springs back into action. “I still work for and believe in the equity and the parity for minorities and we have made wonderful strides, but there is still so much work that has to be done.”

Parkway Partners, board member Sugar Bowl Committee Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, former president Tulane University School of Social Work, alumni board member Upper Pontalba Restoration Corporation, board chair Urban League of Greater New Orleans, board chair YWCA

DR. SCOTT COWEN

“W

hat I love the best about New Orleans is the resilience and character of the people,” says Dr. Scott Cowen, president of Tulane University. “It is the only city in the country that can lay claim to its own music, food, language, architecture and pace of life.”

A native of Metuchen, N.J., Cowen made the move to New Orleans in 1998 to accept the position of president of Tulane University. During his tenure, Newsweek has twice named Tulane as one of the “Hottest School in America”, and TIME magazine has named Cowen one of the nation’s “Top 10 Best College Presidents.” All those recognitions are great, but Cowen says his proudest accomplishment is helping Tulane rebuild and reimagine itself after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and the role it plays in rebuilding New Orleans.

Pre-Katrina, Tulane had a long tradition of service to the New Orleans community. However, after Katrina, community engagement became a core mission of the university. Tulane became the first and only major research university in the country to require their students to complete a public service curriculum through which they apply the knowledge and skills they learn in the classroom to helping New Orleans recover.

“The hardworking students, faculty and staff at Tulane inspire me every day by their commitment to our community,” Cowen says. “They are my heroes.”

Currently, Cowen is working on a university-wide effort called Tulane Empowers, where academics and action are being united to engage with the community at large with the goal of helping the community by empowering others to help build a better world. The knowledge, passion and resources of Tulane’s students, faculty and staff are used to address problems related to inadequate education, poverty, lack of opportunity, access to medical care and many other societal ills.

Cowen also focuses his efforts in helping to improve the New Orleans Kindergarten through 12th grade educational system through the Bring New Orleans Back Commission and the Cowen Institute for Public Education Initiatives.

Although working and serving the community are activities Cowen likes to do best, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Marjorie Cowen, his four adult children and four grandchildren. In his spare time, Cowen also likes to read and fish.

Past and Present Organizations Bring New Orleans Back Commission New Orleans Redevelopment Authority Southeast Regional Airport Authority New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Fleur-de-lis Ambassadors Program American Academy of Arts and Sciences

Awards: Gambit, New Orleanian of the Year CityBusiness, 30 “Driving Forces” in New Orleans in the last 30 years TIME magazine, one of the nation’s Top 10 Best College Presidents Carnegie Corporation Academic Leadership Award The Times-Picayune, Loving Cup Honorary degrees from: Brown University, Yeshiva University, the University of Connecticut, the University of Notre Dame and Case Western Reserve University

American Council on Education White House Council for Community Solutions Association of American Universities, chair National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities Council of Higher Education Accreditation University of Notre Dame, board member National Merit Scholarship Corporation

Greg Rusovich

T

Awards: Junior Achievement, Hall of Fame Family Services, Ten Outstanding Persons Propeller Club, Maritime Man of the Year CityBusiness, Driving Forces Award Crimestoppers, George Loker Community Service Award Honorary Life Member Award Recipient, World Trade Club of Greater New Orleans Ernst & Young, Entrepreneur of the Year Award Young Leadership Council, Role Model Award

he shipping business is in Greg Rusovich’s blood, and pulsing through those same veins is his constant love for the city of New Orleans. Born and raised in the Big Easy, Rusovich is involved in numerous civic endeavors and dedicates his civic efforts toward post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans recovery and reform issues.

“After Katrina, I had a choice to put up or shut up,” he says. “[New Orleans] was either going to live or die, and I chose to do my part in helping the community that I love rebuild and reform.”

Currently, Rusovich is diligently working on increasing economic development through Greater New Orleans Inc., bringing a daily newspaper to New Orleans, reforming and enhancing the criminal justice system and expanding trade in the region, especially the Port of New Orleans.

Through Rusovich’s association with the Metropolitan Crime Commission, the New Orleans Crime Coalition and the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation, he assisted with improving and developing a better criminal justice system that’s prosecuting and convicting more violent offenders.

Rusovich says he wants to make New Orleans a better and safer place to live and work, but social factors also play an important part in making that happen.

“Jump in and make a difference because there’s still work to be done,” he says.

After receiving a bachelor’s degree in political science from Tulane University, Rusovich joined Transoceanic Shipping Company in 1981.

There he devised and implemented the company’s strategy in launching 25 international offices. The Transoceanic group drew the interest of some of the globe’s largest logistics firms, and the company was acquired

by Agility, previously PWC of Kuwait, in 2005. Rusovich now serves as the chief executive officer of Transoceanic Trading and Development Company, a firm dedicated to connecting U.S. companies with global partners and buyers.

Throughout his many professional successes, Rusovich says he gains the most satisfaction from his loving family. “I take most pride in being a father and husband,” he says.

When time permits, Rusovich enjoys vacationing in Longboat Key, Fla., with his wife, Suzanne, their two sons, Colin and Nicholas, and their dog, Apache, and cat, Choctaw. An avid football and basketball fan, Rusovich keeps his mind and body strong by going to the gym daily.

Past and Present Organizations New Orleans Convention Visitors Bureau, chair-elect Greater New Orleans, Inc., chair-elect and executive committee member; co-chair of International Trade Sector Regional Business Council Coalition Port of New Orleans, board of commissioners member New Orleans Business Council, executive committee member and immediate past chair

New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation, board and executive committee member Metairie Park Country Day School, trustee Metropolitan Convention Visitors Bureau, board member Metropolitan Crime Commission, chairman New Orleans Crime Coalition, past chairman and executive committee member Young Leadership Council, past president

betsy nalty

A

native of New Orleans, Betsy Nalty says she was inspired by her parents and her late husband to lead a life of volunteerism and community activism.

“They encouraged me to make a difference by instilling in me the value of sharing and having concern for the well being of others,” Nalty says.

After receiving an education at the Louise S. McGehee School in 1960, Nalty would later return to become the honorary centennial chair of the school’s 100th anniversary celebration. The mission of The Louise S. McGehee School is to provide a rigorous college preparatory education to girls in an inclusive environment that fosters self-esteem, encourages high personal standards, addresses individual student needs and emphasizes active student participation in learning. She is also a lifetime member of the school’s board of directors, a role that she balances with her many other civic commitments. Currently, Nalty is assisting with the development of educational programs for the Ethics Review Board of New Orleans.

“What makes me most proud is the feeling of having done a job to the best of my ability with the hope of leaving whatever the task, greater than it was when I became involved,” she says.

But Nalty cannot do it alone. She calls on others in the community to stand up and get involved by reaching out and making a difference.

“Look around yourself and see what’s there or what’s not there,” she says. “Seek out opportunities because there is great reward and satisfaction in volunteerism.”

Even with all her civic accomplishments, Nalty says that she’s most proud of raising her four children Donald, Morgan, Helen and Elizabeth. When she has free time, Nalty enjoys spending time with her nine grandchildren, listening to classical music, taking long walks, going to pilates class and visiting with friends.

“I’m just plain ole Betsy Nalty,” she humbly says.

Past and Present Organizations Edward G. Schlieder Education Foundation, president Ethics Review Board City of New Orleans, vice chair Citizens for 1 Greater New Orleans, executive committee member Ogden Museum of Southern Art, executive committee member Greater New Orleans Foundation, executive committee member Louisiana Endowment For the Humanities, executive committee member

Awards: Young Leadership Council, Role Model Garden Club of America Zone IX, Creative Leadership Award Junior League of New Orleans, Sustainer Award Institute for Higher Understanding, Ten Outstanding Persons St. Elizabeth’s Guild, Beautiful Activist

Louisiana State University Health Science Department of Psychiatry Advisory Board, member Pennington Biomedical Research Foundation, board and executive committee member Hermann Grima/Gallier Historic Houses, board member Louise S. McGehee School, chair and board member Junior League of New Orleans, former president New Orleans Town Gardeners, former president Garden Club of America, chair

Prioritizing

Passion With a Purpose A personal story of finding balance through volunteering

by Jennifer Couvillon, Ph.D., RN, CNE

E

very day we make a choice to accomplish the things about which we’re passionate. Generally, we hope to take care of ourselves, our faith and our family, and enjoy the daily activity that provides us the means to pursue our passions.

Passion Over time we may logically decide to learn about an interest, but an interest doesn’t become a passion accidentally. Remember the moment you felt a sense of purpose about someone or something. Those are the moments that define our being. Those are the phenomena that connect nature and nurture. Life is about those experiences.

Passion can be described as the feeling one has when the rush from your head hits your heart. It is a moment when you’re self-reflective and approve; when you fall in love, see hope, welcome life, experience pain and say goodbye. It is simply the moments you never forget.

I have been blessed and enjoy many passions.

My family is my priority, and I use my faith to

guide me as a women, wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and nurse. My passion is the energy I feel when a new opportunity arises to make a difference. No matter how trivial, that feeling drives my head to make decisions that stem from my heart. Without passion, my decisions lack connectedness and can easily be swayed. Some would offer that passion is exhausting, but I find it can also renew.

It has been my experience that I only receive when I’m open to being passionate about someone or something. This is when we are most vulnerable. It means that sharing our feelings is worth the risk. No one is immune to the passion of disappointment when things do not go as envisioned, but without vulnerability we don’t remember our moments.

For me, purpose behind my passion helps me accomplish what I want to get done. We are all asked to do more with less. We strive to be conscious about balance in a world of temptation.

When we’re spinning out of control it seems impossible to add more to our lives, yet giving to others becomes a gift back to ourselves.

This article is a tribute to those who volunteer.

Volunteering can be a gift given or received. It can be financial or a donation of time and effort.

It can be done at the end of your list of to-dos or it can re-align your prioritizes. It can be selfish and selfless. It is a passion for some, a purpose for others and even an afterthought.

I encourage anyone with interest and availability to share their time, talent and treasure working with those who share your passions.

Consider prioritizing your passions by joining a board or signing up for a committee. If organized leadership isn’t for you, personalize how you impact others. There is no wrong way to connect a desire to help with an action.

I have been blessed to serve on many boards in the communities in which I have lived. My nature began in Cleveland, Ohio and I was nurtured in Washington, D.C. In New Orleans, I have received much from my involvements with the Junior League of New Orleans, New Orleans Communities in Schools, Louisiana Children’s Museum, New Orleans District Nurses Association, Louisiana State Board of Nursing, the Nursing Honors Society and the National League for Nursing. Blessings have come from committee work and various events that support our community organizations. The result of these activities is a renewed sense of self and energy to prioritize my passions. This sense of purpose drives what I accomplish each and every day. It is a foundation for me and my family. It connects me to those I love.

Saying Yes Life is about experiences and there are so many opportunities to say “Yes!” Join, accept, volunteer, sign a membership rooster, recruit, call for tickets, fund a circle of friends, attend an activity, champion a cause, market an event, walk in a race, show up for a shift, chair a campaign, be a patron, balance a budget, seek and then extend your involvement and, most importantly, put yourself in a place to experience more. Giving back is a wonderful experience and a reward in its own right.

With one life to live, we owe ourselves the opportunity. Make contact today and maybe you’ll find a new passion. Connect your heart to your head and it will help you prioritize so that you’re more balanced. It is the pursuit of the ultimate. The gift is the moment you’ll cherish forever and there’s no better time than now.

Thank you for the opportunity to share one of my passions. My wish is for you to enjoy and share your gifts this holiday season and into the New Year. F December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 49

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 51

bev entertaining

By Bev Church

A New Twist on the Traditional This holiday season you’ll see a lot of the new “hot” colors – pink, aqua, lime green and purple – so definitely try a new color palette. I love a real Christmas tree to give the scent of the holidays, but artificial garland and small accent trees that are already lit are great choices as well and save time.

With Linda Bjork’s hot pink dining room, we chose ornaments [birds, presents, balls and leaf pens] in hot pink, lime green, purple, red and aqua. We set the table with a lime green under cloth and a pink silk overlay, and then added red rose placemats,

Christmas wine glasses, silver goblets, cute napkins and place card holders with stars.

The Celebration Mantlepiece holder is filled with magnolia leaves and bleeding heart that we picked from the garden and is accented with ornaments and votives. Presents and jingle bells are favors for everyone to take home. Find light-up headpieces for the girls and reindeer ears for the guys. Ask everyone to bring a dish and let the children plan an easy play. Sing lots of Christmas carols before and after dinner, and pass out rhythm instruments to get everyone in on the act!

52 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Linda Reese Bjork photos

FACING PAGE, TOP: Overall view of the dining room. FACING PAGE, BOTTOM: Chair with a lighted headpiece. TOP: Close-up of placemat with favors and a Christmas wine glass with name added. ABOVE: Celebration Mantlepiece centerpiece, from Bev’s collection. RIGHT: Sideboard and Luis Colmenares mirror, decorated for the holidays.

advertising section

Luxury GiftGuide Perlis New Orleans 504/895-8661 Luxury leather accessories by Bosca.

Angelique Shoe 504/891-8992 Dannijo statement necklace

Haase’s 504/866-9944 New Balance 990 classic running shoes for men, women, and children (Made in USA)

Priorities 504/899-2212 Rese Pilates jacket

Ashley Hall Interiors 504/524-0196 Hancock & Moore Founders Lounger in Lee Jofa Dunbar fabric in Poppy

advertising section

Symmetry Jewelers 504/861-9925 Tom Mathis Rose Gold Pendant featuring 2.79CT Antique Pear Shaped Diamond accented by round brilliant white and fancy yellow diamonds

Wellington & Company 504/525-4855 18K White Gold Diamond In and Out Hoop Earrings

Feet First 504/899-6800 (Uptown), 504/569-0005 (French Quarter) Sleek and sophisticated Sam Edelman “Empire� kneehigh boots in black suede

Rivers Spencer Interiors 504/609-2436 AnnieGlass ruffle bowl in 24k gold

Febe 504/835-5250 Lauren Merkin Glitter Clutch

Mimi 504/269-6464 Diana Rosh New York Reversible microfiber and fox striped coat with detachable collar

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 55

advertising section

Luxury Gift Guide Baby Bump 504/304-2737 Introducing the new Orbit Baby Double Stroller, the “Helix”, which can be converted from the Single Orbit G2 Stroller; available to order

Judy at the Rink 504/891-7018 Hand gilded pedestal bowl

Martin Lawrence Gallery 504/299-9905 ERTÉ, American Millionairess, limited-edition bronze sculpture

Ballin’s LTD 504/891-4502 Cashmere scrunch scarves Abeille 504/324-3488 JJ Winters Snakeskin Envelope Clutch (Made in USA) 56 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

advertising section

Source 504/561-7558 Hand-crafted, lacquered wood boxes (in various sizes and colors)

Perfect Fit Shoes 504/456-5993 PANDORA by Thierry Rabotin - Superb Italian Workmanship, Timeless Style and Absolute Comfort

Haute 504/522-8687 “Decide Who You Are” one of a kind necklace by Dora Mae Jewelry Design (available exclusively at Haute) - ornate vintage 1950’s Florenza brooch with beautiful 1920’s black and gold fringe chain

B Kids 504/301-2954 Juicy Couture winter accessories

Angelique 504/866-1092 Red Valentino cheetah print goat coat with raccoon fur trim

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 57

advertising section

Luxury Gift Guide French Sole 504/267-9000 Gold Bergen Leopard Evening Clutch

Betty Hunley Designs 504/895-2870 Gold handled cheese knives and serving utensils

Cristy’s Collection www.cristyscollection.com Sterling silver Moonlight Evening in New Orleans Collage Cuff depicting traditional local imagery in an intricate and whimsical manner

GNO Cyclery 504/861-0023 The new SUPERSIX EVO, aka “Best Bike in the World”, with speed save micro-suspension technology

Jefferson Feed 504/733-8572 100% waterproof cold-conditions Woody Max hunting boot, featuring 100% breathable airmesh lining

58 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

advertising section

Sue’s Jewelers 504/832-0882 Gold Fleur-de-Lis with Pave Diamond Necklace

Dunleith Designs and Antiques 504/272-0879 20.5 inch ceramic platter with crystalline glaze to create truly one of a kind pieces

Whimsy 504/273-5900 Multi-Strand Freshwater Pearl Necklace with Removable Sterling Pendants

Metairie Dental Care 504/301-3590 Opalescense Whitening System with custom made trays

Elizabeth’s 504/833-3717 Genuine snakeskin, embellished vintage frame evening clutches December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 59

with this ring

By Mallory Lindsly

{Emory – Claiborne } Although Meredith Emory and Cole Claiborne’s parents have been good friends for many years, they were seldom in New Orleans at the same time.

After Meredith moved back to New Orleans in July 2010, Cole’s mom suggested introducing her to Cole’s roommate. When Cole contacted Meredith to have drinks one Friday night in late September 2010, she assumed it was to finally meet his roommate.

Meredith then decided to bring one of her best friends, Annie Malone, who’s

60 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

also a good friend of Cole’s, to go along with her. Meredith was pleasantly surprised when Cole was the only one who showed up to her door. Meredith, Annie and Cole enjoyed drinks, and later Meredith went off to have dinner with friends. A few weeks later, Cole asked Meredith for a cozy dinner for two. It was after a golf game a year later that Cole discussed his intentions to marry Meredith with Meredith’s dad. Cole then spent the next few months planning a surprise engagement.

It was the week before Christmas 2011, and both families were having dinner at Meredith’s home when Cole handed Meredith a Crockpot box, saying that it was an early Christmas gift. Inside were four different-sized boxes, with the last being a watch box. To her delight, it wasn’t a watch but a beautiful diamond ring, and the rest of the evening was spent celebrating their engagement.

After the wedding, Meredith and Cole went to Anguilla and St. Barthelemy for their honeymoon.

The couple currently resides in New Orleans, where Meredith is a kindergarten teacher at Louise S. McGehee School and Cole is a clinical research fellow in dermatology at Tulane University. F Bride: Meredith Brooke Emory Groom: Dr. William Charles Cole Claiborne IV Bride’s Parents: Dr. and Mrs. William Brooks Emory Groom’s Parents: Dr. and Mrs. Martin Duralde Claiborne, III Date of Wedding: August 4, 2012 Ceremony: St. Francis of Assisi Church Reception: New Orleans Country Club Coordinator: Kelly Sherlock Celebrant: Very Rev. Philip Landry, V.P.F. Ceremony Music: Sarah Jane McMahon (vocalist) and Thomas Wright (organist) Wedding Gown: Anne Barge bridal gown purchased from Neiman Marcus and an antique laced veil borrowed from the groom’s mother.

Matron of Honor: Caroline Smiley Bredthauer Bridesmaids: Ashby Navarro, Lauren Laughry, Dominique Haydel, Amy Leefe, Charlotte Sapir, Caroline Baum, Katie Osborne, Brittany Hunt, Jennifer King, Catherine Renaudin and Annie Malone Groomsmen: Bailey Edwards, David Batt Jr., Grant Gish, Craig Webb, Claiborne Schmidt, James Delaune, Cameron Emory, Preston Emory, Carter Clement and John Marshall Best Men: Jeffrey Reid Claiborne and Harry Ross Claiborne Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Green Lula Kate dresses purchased from Bella Bridesmaid in Baton Rouge.

Flower Girl: Susan LeClercq Ring Bearer: Price Daniel Program Bearers: Olivia McClanahan, Eleanor McClanahan, Thomas Daniel, Caroline Daniel, Douglas LeClercq and Price LeClercq Groom’s attire: White linen suits purchased from Joseph A. Banks. Cole wore a French cuff straight collared shirt along with his grandfather’s cufflinks.

Groomsmen’s attire: White linen suits from Perlis and Joseph A. Banks.

Rings: Meredith’s ring was purchased from Rothschild Diamonds, and Cole wears his grandfather’s wedding ring.

Florist: Glenda Ivy Favor: Candy bags from the candy bar Caterer: New Orleans Country Club Wedding and Groom’s Cake: Zoe’s Bakery Photographer: Julia Bailey Videographer: Bob Eustler Hair: Charlotte Willamson and Linzy Pennington Makeup: Katie Malone and Kellie Bode Music: Anita from Atlanta, Ga., East Coast Productions December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 61

student activist

By Mallory Lindsly

William McGrew

Benjamin Franklin High School

“The most significant personal benefit of my activism has been the satisfaction of having an impact on my community both through assisting in successful political campaigns and through assisting in providing houses to those in need,” says William Jackson McGrew, a senior at Benjamin Franklin High School.

McGrew is firmly committed to promoting values of freedom and equality to establish a society in which everyone has the opportunity to live happy, productive lives. Due to these ideas, McGrew has committed to furthering a liberal agenda in regards to marriage equality, women’s reproductive rights, evolution education, renewable energy and aid to the poor and middle class.

As an officer for the Young Democrats, McGrew has been able to organize a voter registration drive, a mock presidential debate and weekly informative meetings about liberal policies.

McGrew has volunteered for

62 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

many political campaigns, both locally and nationally. Through this work he has participated in phone-banking, canvassing, get-out-the-vote efforts and organizing young volunteers.

He has also interned in one of the Louisiana’s Senator’s offices, where he did clerical work, casework, constituent services and research.

“I have not only developed my argumentative skills as an advocate for specific policies, I have also learned how to be a leader and mobilize people in support of causes that do not directly impact them” McGrew says.

McGrew is also very committed in campaigning for action to stop human rights crises and mass atrocities, such as starving children in Somalia.

He promotes awareness through social media, face-to-face conversations and involvement in human rights organizations.

McGrew says, “I firmly believe that all people have the same rights to life and freedom as Americans and that the United States and the world have an obligation to promote these rights.”

He plans on attaining bachelor and master degrees in international relations before obtaining a law degree, and on joining the United States Foreign Service as a diplomat. F

cheryl gerber photograph

to your health

By Billy Katz and Hudson Ellis

Power Moves Fighting Obesity and The Squat Press UnitedHealthcare launches initiative in New Orleans to fight childhood obesity

Approximately one third of all American children are obese or overweight, and in Louisiana that number is even higher: 47.5 percent. We all know being obese or overweight leads to serious health risks and high medical costs.

UnitedHealthcare is bringing “JOIN for MESM,” a communitybased childhood obesity lifestyle intervention program, to Medicaid beneficiaries who live in the New Orleans area. This 12-month program emphasizes whole-family lifestyle and behavior modifications in 16 weekly sessions followed by monthly maintenance classes. In the pilot “JOIN for ME” program, 10 percent fewer of the children who completed the program were obese, and participants’ parents lost weight, too.

Classes will be held at select Boys & Girls Clubs and enrollment is now

open. “JOIN for ME” is striving to become a national model for effective, accessible and affordable treatment for childhood obesity.

For more information call (877) 554-3755.

No. 1 Fat Burning Exercise: The Squat Press

Last month we looked at how to properly do The Squat. This month we’re adding weights. By doing so, we have the No. 1 fat burning exercise because it uses every muscle group: legs, arms, shoulders and core. It strengthens while raising your heart rate.

Here is how you do it: Hold weights with feet hip distance apart.

Squat all the way down, touching the weights to the floor while keeping your back straight and your abs contracted. Curl the weights up in a bicep curl, and then press the weights overhead as you push to a standing position. Repeat 10 to 12 times. Remember: keep your abs engaged and use your legs to push yourself up – not your back. F

{ } Billy Katz and Hudson Ellis are the co-owners of Simply Fit gyms. Read more tips from them in Renaissance Publishing’s e-newsletter.

Sign up by visiting MyNewOrleans.com

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 63

december snapshots

BY Johanna Gretschel

4 1

5 2

6

3 1. Better Than Ezra members Jim Payne and Kevin Griffin with Paul Rae (kneeling), Jennifer Finnigan, Jonathan Silverman, Better Than Ezra member Michael Jerome, Adrianne Palicki, and Better Than Ezra member Tom Drummond pose on the red carpet for the Better Than Ezra Foundation’s 11th annual “Ezra Open” charity event on September 7 at Harrah’s Casino Theatre. 2. The 11th annual “Ezra Open” co-chairs Jennifer Finnigan and Jonathan Silverman with Mickey and Melanie Loomis take the stage during the live auction at Harrah’s Casino Theatre. The Better Than Ezra Foundation has donated money to organizations around the city, including Brad Pitt’s Make it Right Foundation and LA/SPCA. 3. Former Saints safety Steve Gleason attended the star-studded charity event and posed with Better Than Ezra and Marc Broussard before they took the stage at the 11th annual “Ezra Open” charity event September 7 at Harrah’s.

64 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

4. On September 13, “Cheeriodicals Day at Children’s Hospital,” 400 hospitalized children received Cheeriodicals – care packages containing ageappropriate magazines and activity books, room decorations, puzzles, stickers, games, snacks and more. Cheeriodicals, a new company from Birmingham, Ala., presents an alternative to the standard flowers, fruit or candy. 5. A child eagerly unpacks the contents of a Cheeriodical at Children’s Hospital. Wells Fargo partnered with the emerging company and donated the services of 400 employees to deliver the packages during “Cheeriodicals Day at Children’s Hospital.” Cheeriodicals stands for “a cheerful periodical;” the bright green gift boxes contain the recipient’s favorite magazine. 6. Volunteers Beverly Churchill and Ellen Goldring assist a satisfied customer at the September 15 Symphony Book Fair fundraiser. “Art on Oak” supports the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra with the posters, paintings and prints sale.

december snapshots

BY Johanna Gretschel

10

7

8

11

9

12 7. The Honorable Lenar Whitney, State Representative for District 53, and attorney Stephen Rue took home the People’s Choice Award at “Dancing with the Stars of the South” for their second-line to “Mr. Big Stuff.” The September 22 event raised funds for the Louisiana Center for Women and Government. 8. News anchors Nancy Parker and Angela Hill pose with Amanda Shaw at “Dancing with the Stars of the South” at the Hilton Riverside.

The trio presided over the celebrity judge panel. 9. Gala and auction chair Nellrea Simpson poses with KID smART director Elise Gallinot and president of RHINO Deborah Morrissey as they celebrate RHINO Gallery’s “25th Anniversary Gala” and live auction. Proceeds benefitted RHINO’s outreach programs and KID smART, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the arts in schools.

10. Mary DiMeglio, Maria Fomich and Sharad Mulchand enjoyed the festivities at RHINO Gallery’s “25th Anniversary Gala.” 11. Fashion’s Night Out organizers Carla Adams of Canal Place, Edmund Kee of Amelie G and Tracee Dundas of Fashion Week New Orleans celebrate New Orleans’ first participation in the global shopping event. Anna Wintour of Vogue conceived the idea four years ago in New York, and it has since exploded across the international economy. 12. Models Annie Pearson and Joseph Young show off new fall fashions from Banana Republic at Fashion’s Night Out on September 6 in The Shops at Canal Place. Shops in Old Metairie participated in the global event as well, with trunk shows, discounts and giveaways.

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 65

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 67

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.

Each office independently owned and operated.

Stately home on lovely, private street. Built by Golemi Builders. Spacious rooms with large closets. Study could be 5th bedroom. Playroom off kitchen. Beautifully maintained. Spacious backyard with covered patio.

Premier 608 Iona .................................................... NEW ...................... $2,750,000 300 Stella St .............................................SOLD ..................... $1,499,900 250 Vincent Ave ...................................................................... $1,299,000 460 Woodvine .......................................................................... $1,049,000 200 Geranium St .............................. PRICED TO SELL ................ $839,900 1455 Arabella............................................SOLD ........................ $739,500 1461 Henry Clay ........................................SOLD ........................ $725,000 323 Rue St Ann ......................................PENDING ..................... $564,000 118 Country Club ......................................SOLD ........................ $429,000 5319 S Liberty ........................................... NEW ......................... $425,000 116 Avenue E .........................................PENDING ..................... $269,000 421 Carrollton ...........................................SOLD ........................ $269,000 1416 Bonnabel ..........................................SOLD ........................ $255,000 437-39 Hesper Ave ..................................................................... $199,900 V1 & V2 Edenborn (lot) ............................................................... $145,000 W1 & W2 Edenborn (lot) ............................................................. $145,000 4320 S Dorgenois ......................................SOLD ........................ $130,000 4116 W Esplanade (lot) .............................................................. $120,000 401 Metairies Rd Ph 32 .............................................................. $120,000 401 Metairie Rd #601................................................................. $110,000 401 Metairie Rd #514................................................................. $107,000 Gardner Realtors. If you have a brokerage relationship with another agency, this is not intended as solicitation All information framed reliable.

Great for entertaining! This move-in stylish 4 bedroom 3 1/2 bath. Home is in a prime location. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite counters, sub-zero/thermador appliances.

Large family room with cathedral ceilings and sunroom overlooking a lush landscaped patio/ pool area. Beautiful master suite and walk-in closet. Never flooded. Owners have done several custom upgrads to the home. A must see!

1312 First St ..................................................... $2,695,000 401 Bellaire Dr .................................................. $1,950,000 208 Ridgeway Dr ................UNDER CONTRACT........ $1,059,000 38 Beresford Ct .......................... VACANT LOT. ......... $596,000 244 Mulberry Dr .................. UNDER CONTRACT ......... $475,000 404 Orion St ..............................NEW LISTING ......... $380,000 250 Beverly Dr ............. NEW PRICE/LAND VALUE ......... $350,000 212 Ridgelake Dr ........................... PENDING ......... $279,000 300 Lake Marina 8C ..................NEW LISTING ......... $264,900

68 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

1907 Palmer Avenue.................................................................................. $4,100,000 217 Audubon Blvd..................................................................................... $3,420,000 10 Nassau Drive ........................................................................................ $2,800,000 1527 Washington Ave ............................................................................... $1,595,000 3721 St. Charles Unit A ............................................................................... $880,000 5239 Marcia Ave .......................................................................................... $729,000 704 Webster St ............................................................................................. $795,000 70 Versailles Blvd.......................................................................................... $310,000 1444 Henry Clay Ave ................................. SOLD ................................... $2,600,000 625 St. Charles PHA ................................. SOLD ................................... $1,675,000 13 Nassau - lot............................................ SOLD ................................... $1,575,000 5508 Hurst ................................................. SOLD ................................... $1,549,000 1314 Napoleon Unit 9 ................................ SOLD ................................... $1,540,000 824 Ursulines .............................................. SOLD ................................... $1,395,000 6035 Laurel St ............................................ SOLD ...................................... $948,000 621 Arabella ............................................... SOLD ...................................... $849,000 5914 Coliseum St. ...................................... SOLD ...................................... $835,000 303 Audubon St ......................................... SOLD ...................................... $788,000 6021 Constance St...................................... SOLD ...................................... $695,000 405 Audubon St ......................................... SOLD ...................................... $685,000 534 Arabella ............................................... SOLD ...................................... $679,000 636 Webster................................................ SOLD ...................................... $648,000

Properties ELEANOR FARNSWORTH Top Residential Producer

CRS, GRI, BRC, HRS Office: (504) 891-1142 Home: (504) 891-9023 891-6400

www.EleanorFarnsworth.com

1429 Jackson Ave $1,098,000 10 Swan ....................... SOLD .............$1,300,000 1429 Jackson Ave ...............................$1,098,000 500 Audubon ................ SOLD ................$998,000 22 Farnham.................... SOLD ................$950,000 1566 Calhoun ................ SOLD ................$875,000 5111 Pitt ........................ SOLD ................$749,000 1240 Eighth ................... SOLD ................$725,000 6308 Camp .................... SOLD ................$549,000 6219 Magazine St ......... SOLD ................$530,000 924 Bellecastle.............. SOLD ................$485,000 234 Audubon St.......................................$479,000 5120 Chestnut ............... SOLD ................$439,000 6300 Colbert St. ............ SOLD ................$419,000 4 Stilt ............................. SOLD ................$415,000 4440 Bienville................ SOLD ................$399,000 915 Cadiz ....................... SOLD ................$396,000 422 Henry Clay Ave .................................$378,000 4701 Iberville................. SOLD ................$335,000 7400 Cohn ...............................................$289,000 8533 Freret St..........................................$287,000 2619 St. Charles Unit C ...........................$219,000 7008 Pritchard Pl .....................................$194,000

1415 Third Street .........................................$12,500,000 4717 St Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$6,000,000 16 Audubon Place .............. SOLD ..............$4,500,000 521 Gov. Nicholls................SOLD...............$3,750,000 1516 Robert Street .........................................$3,100,000 1776 State Street .............................................$2,350,000 5614 St. Charles Avenue................................$2,190,000 3 Poydras Street #9E/F ........SOLD...............$2,300,000 906 S. New Hampshire Avenue......SOLD...............$2,199,000 1413 Philip Street ...........................................$2,020,000 1538 Fourth Street .........................................$1,900,000 1518 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,750,000 1415 Cadiz Street ...............SOLD...............$1,700,000 2708 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,625,000 4613 St. Charles Avenue.....SOLD...............$1,600,000 576 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,595,000 2721 St Charles Avenue 3A ..........................$1,559,000 2707 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,490,000 2507 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,490,000 1542 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD...............$1,450,000 5726 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,400,000 1205 Philip Street .................SOLD...............$1,399,000 4917 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,370,000 71607 Riverside Drive ...................................$1,350,000 1732 Palmer Avene ........................................$1,300,000 447 Audubon Street ........... SOLD ..............$1,300,000 9 Blanc Place ........................SOLD...............$1,300,000 1578 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD...............$1,300,000 1207 State Street ..................SOLD...............$1,250,000 571 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,220,000 1539 Soniat Street ...............SOLD...............$1,220,000 6554 Oakland Drive............SOLD...............$1,200,000 441 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,199,000 4901 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,100,000 2006 Jefferson Avenue........SOLD...............$1,100,000 1701 Valence Street .............SOLD...............$1,075,000

1919 State Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 Exposition Blvd .........SOLD...............$1,045,000 3225 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,000,000 1844 State Street ..................SOLD.................. $995,000 1022 Webster Street ............SOLD.................. $995,000 3447 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $985,000 1543 Henry Clay Avenue.......SOLD.................. $950,000 1729 Jefferson Avenue........SOLD.................. $950,000 4525 Prytania Street ............SOLD.................. $950,000 3937 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $950,000 508 Walnut Street ................SOLD.................. $950,000 2331 Chestnut Street...........SOLD.................. $949,000 1119-21 Delachaise Street ................................ $918,000 1922 State Street ..................SOLD.................. $899,000 6161 Loyola Avenue............SOLD.................. $895,000 1205 Arabella Street ............SOLD.................. $895,000 6047 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $850,000 836 State Street ....................SOLD.................. $849,000 500 Walnut Street ................SOLD.................. $825,000 5933 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $799,000 265 Audubon Blvd ............................................ $799,000 1443 Calhoun Street ......................................... $789,000 405 Exposition Blvd ...........SOLD.................. $755,000 4506 Canal Street............................................... $750,000 1453 Arabella Street ............SOLD.................. $649,000 732 S. Beach Blvd ................SOLD.................. $649,000 605 Exposition Blvd ......................................... $625,000 1718 Valence Street .............SOLD.................. $547,000 123 Walnut Unit 304 ......................................... $525,000 1227 Royal Street Unit 4 .................................. $300,000 8654 Pontchartrain Blvd #20 .......................... $295,000 8205 Spruce Street ............................................ $285,000 7337 W. Roadway Street ......3 Slips.................. $230,000 1205 St. Charles Avenue Unit #1415 ............. $194,000 5605-07 Tchoupitoulas ..................................... $150,000

De Limon Place Patrolling Guard Service, Limited Access, Pool, Clubhouse, Easy Living… 3 STORY ELEGANT TOWNHOME 2655-3315 Sq Ft Liv Area + 2 Car Garage .......... $425,000 PONTALBA CONDOMINIUMS Living Room with Seperate Dining 1962 Sq Ft .............................................................$360,000 RENTALS AVAILABLE ................. $2100-$2700 PER MONTH

504-835-6100

Property Shown by Appointment Only DeLimon Real Estate 401 Rue St. Ann | Old Metairie www.crosbydevelopment.com | Lisa Crosby Forshag

December 2012 St. Charles Avenue | 69

326 E. Livingston Pl ...................... U/C 5811 Hurst St ...............................SOLD 5219 D Magazine St.....................SOLD 121 Carrollton ........................ LEASED 123 Carrollton ........................ LEASED

70 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

new orleans nostalgia

By Seale Paterson

Going to Market New Orleans’ history of public markets began in the 1780s with what’s known today as the French Market. Many markets were opened over the next three decades, and by World War I, there were 32 public markets operating around the city.

The Dryades Market, located at the intersection of Dryades and Melpomene streets (now Oretha Castle Haley and Martin Luther King Jr. boulevards), opened to the public on January 10, 1849. The grand opening party featured tables of roasted meats, champagne and claret. It was a successful party, according to a Picayune article, which states

that, “the spirits of the crowd rose in proportion as the wine went down, and everybody felt particularly kind to everybody else.”

It quickly became one of the busiest and biggest markets in New Orleans; over the years it was demolished and rebuilt twice and renovated numerous times. Its last major renovation occurred soon after the city’s Division of Public Markets was created in 1931. Over the years, it remained a vibrant market with butchers, seafood and poultry vendors, fruit and vegetable sellers, and at one time, a pickle store.

Over time, changing laws and emerging technologies dictated

72 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

what the market was able to sell. Fire codes prevented a lot of cooking, but heating of coffee and other drinks was permitted.

The arrival of refrigeration made it possible for vendors to provide prepared foods such as cooked meats, sandwiches and fresh mayonnaise. One thing that stayed consistent through the changes,

{

however, was women selling pralines and calas tout chaud (hot rice cakes).

The city gave up control of the market in 1946, at which point it was used as a Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps Induction Center and by the USO. After that, the market went into private ownership. F

}

The Dryades Market in 1943. The Southern Food and Beverage Museum is currently renovating the Dryades Market after outgrowing their current location in Riverwalk. The plans for the space include a restaurant and bar; a kitchen auditorium; and large exhibit and gallery spaces. A branch of the New Orleans Public Library, which will hold SoFAB’s extensive cookbook collection – the largest culinary library in the South – will be down the block. The Museum is expected to open in spring 2013. Photo taken by Allison Pershing; provided courtesy of the New Orleans Public Library.