St. Charles Avenue December 2013

december 2013

Allen Toussaint, Boysie Bollinger, Susan Read Johnson, Rod West, Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin and Julie Livaudais George

on the cover

When the time comes each year to choose St. Charles Avenue’s Activists of the Year, we end up with a list much longer at the end of the meeting than it was when we started, and if you were listening, you would often hear “We haven’t profiled her before?”

“How could we have overlooked his efforts?” and “Ooohhh! She would be perfect!”

This year, however, while we enjoyed adding truly illustrious names to our running list, there were six local philanthropists who stood out.

St. Charles Avenue magazine is proud to honor Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin, Boysie

Bollinger, Julie Livaudais George, Susan Read Johnson, Allen Toussaint and Rod West for the

time, energy and gifts that they have given to our city. The nonprofits, boards, foundations, committees, city groups and associations with which they’re associated stretch across the entirety of New Orleans. Without them and their efforts, our city wouldn’t be the same.

We hope that you will read and enjoy their profiles – we’re certain that their efforts will inspire you, as they have us, to strive to achieve and give back to the city that has given so much to us all. n

Special thanks to Director of Marketing and Transportation Patrice Bell Mercadel and Marketing Coordinator Shulond Myer for Veolia Transportation in service to the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority for coordinating the streetcar for our shoot; and to operator #770 Gail Kelson for going above and beyond the call of duty for this shoot.

Photographed by Jeffery Johnston saintcharlesavenue.com | 1

contents

features 22 10 Years of LOVE

New Orleans Museum of Art celebrated its sculpture garden.

24 Belles & Beaus

It was an action-packed evening at ACS’s “Dressed to Cure.”

26 Roll Out the Black and Gold Carpet

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Sean Payton’s Play It Forward Foundation raised awareness and spirits.

28 Honoring An Archbishop

Catholic Cultural Heritage Center unveiled its new exhibition.

30 Doing Good for the Whole Child

“Good Students Gala” honored female role models.

32 Preserving Old World Elegance Vieux Carré Commission Foundation hosted

a “Gala at Galatoire’s.”

34 Crusading and Surviving

Cancer Crusaders honored 12 active survivors.

36 Golden Tassels for All

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Jefferson Dollars for Scholars celebrated 20 years.

38 A One, A Two …

Tulane University hosted its 12th annual “Helluva Hullabaloo Auction and Party.”

40 Vive le Vieux Carré!

The VCPORA’s 75th and most successful fundraiser yet.

43 2013 Activists of the Year

BY lexi wangler

51 Choosing to Chair

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What to know before you helm an event – from an expert by morgan packard

contents

in every issue 10 A Note From Bev 12 Cruisin’ the Crescent 14 Skin Deep Soliciting Santa: 10 top beauty gifts

16 What’s Hot Jewelry

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18 On the Menu

Citrus Cheer: Chef Ray Gruezke shares his Drum With Orange Broth Mussels and Grapefruit Salad

20 The Dish

Downtown Cheer: Raising the bar this holiday season

54 Bev Entertaining New Orleans Welcomes Newport

66 With This Ring

Barnard-Favrot

68 Young Bloods

Anne Rolfes: Founder, Louisiana Bucket Brigade

70 Student Activist

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Emily MacLaren: Ursuline Academy

72 Shop Talk

Yvonne LaFleur: Owner and designer, Yvonne LaFleur

73 Shop Talk

Cristy Cali: Owner and designer, Cristy Cali Jewelry

74 Snapshots 76 Performing Arts

OnStage Performance Calendar

80 Nostalgia Grocery Matters: The history of Solari’s

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New Orleans’ definitive social magazine december 2013 / Volume 17 / Issue 7

Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Beauty Columnist Cat Wall Aschaffenburg Society Columnist Shelby Westfeldt Mills Associate Editors Haley Adams, Lauren LaBorde Intern Paige Nulty and Lexi Wangler advertising Sales Manager Jill Varney (504) 830-7219, Jill@MyNewOrleans.com Account Executive Brittany Brady Sales Assistant Erin Azar Production/Web Manager Staci McCarty Production Designer Antoine Passelac 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 Subscriptions Erin Duhe (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, 2013 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.

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ON THE WEB

saintcharlesavenue.com & myneworleans.com There’s Lots More To See Online 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.

n Check out our award-winning blogs which cover all you ever wanted to know about New Orleans, including restaurant reviews, New Orleans parenting and cocktail commentary. Blogs are updated Monday through Friday.

n Did you make one of our slideshows? Browse our photo galleries from New Orleans events to see what your friends have been up to.

n Find out about more articles, events and promotions by liking St. Charles Avenue on Facebook or see what we’re up to on Twitter by following @StCharlesAvenue.

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A NOTE FROM BEV

events DECEMBER 5 ”A. I. Botnick Torch of Liberty Award,” benefiting the Anti-Defamation League, 780-5617

Special Honors What a special month for our magazine! Our December cover honors six incredible New Orleanians who are making a positive impact on our city through countless volunteer hours and their own monetary resources. Congratulations to: Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin, Boysie Bollinger, Susan Read Johnson, Julie Livaudais George, Allen Toussaint and Rod West.

Their accomplishments are varied – The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Children’s Hospital, Catholic Charities, The National World War II Museum, New Orleans Artists Against Hunger and Homelessness, Longue Vue House and Gardens, The Greater New Orleans Foundation – but they all believe that “to whom much is given, much is expected.”

Please read about each honoree; we hope their stories will encourage more volunteerism.

Congratulations to all of you!

The holidays are upon us, so check out What’s Hot in Jewelry so you can surprise the special people on your list. There is a

6-7 Christmas Tree Sale, benefiting Holy Name of Jesus School, 861-9709 6 “Tree of Recovery,” benefiting Bridge House/ Grace House, 821-7135

price point and style for everyone, from the most sparkly of cocktail rings to Day of the Dead-themed charms.

Books also make great gifts, so go to Britton Trice’s Garden District Book Shop (2727 Prytania St., 895-2266, GardenDistrictBookShop.com) and look for George Fowler’s provocative book, My Cuba Libre: Bringing Fidel Castro to Justice and Janet Wyman Coleman’s Eight Dolphins of Katrina: A True Tale of Survival, which underscores the bonds between dolphins and their trainers and among the dolphins themselves.

The Salvation Army is 25 years old! Dickie Brennan presents its “Christmas Kickoff Party,” Thursday, December 12, at Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House, 144 Bourbon St., from 6:30 to 9 p.m., with presenting sponsor Versabar.

Tickets are $70 each and include food, beverages, a silent auction and music by Armand St. Martin.

All proceeds go to the programs and services of the Salvation Army, which always is there for

7 “Le Marche de Fetes,” benefiting Louisiana Landmarks Society, 482-0312 any and all disasters. For tickets call 899-4569 extension 316 or visit SalvationArmyNOLA.org.

On December 23, the NOCCA Institute and the family of Daniel Price invite you to “Home for the Holidays” at The House of Blues (see photo below). All proceeds from this event go to providing scholarships to NOCCA students.

You really want to be a patron for $127 so you can get in early at 6 p.m. and have access to a buffet dinner and open bar. The regular party starts at 7:30 p.m. and goes until midnight for $37 a person. Thanks to Trombone Shorty, Rebirth, Kermit Ruffins and many more who will be among those performing. Please call 5310-4999 for tickets.

Have a safe holiday with your family and friends! Merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah and happy New Year!

– Beverly Reese Church

Christopher, Dr. Steve and Cathy Price pictured at last year’s “Home for the Holidays,” benefiting the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists and NOCCA. This year’s event will take place Monday, December 23 at the House of Blues. Hosted by emcee Gralen Banks, the event will begin with a food-filled patron party and silent auction at 6 p.m., with entertainment by cellist Jee Yeoun Ko followed by Irma Thomas.

The main event begins at 7:30 p.m. featuring performances by John Boutte, Rebirth, Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers, Shamarr Allen & the Underdawgs, My Name Is John Michael, Eric Lindell Band, the Andrews Family featuring Trombone Shorty & James Andrews with special guest Herlin Riley. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit HouseOfBlues.com, LiveNation.com, Ticketmaster.com or call 310-4999.

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10 “Fête de Nöel,” benefiting Ladies Leukemia League, (985) 703-0831 10 “Trailblazer Benefit Night,” benefiting Louisiana Green Corps, 613-4661 11 St. Charles Avenue’s “Activists of the Year 2013,” 830-7231, Duhe@ MyNewOrleans.com 12 Fifth annual “Christmas Kickoff Party,” benefiting the Salvation Army New Orleans Area Command, 899-4569 14 “Running of the Santas,” benefiting local military families, 401-6990, RunningOfTheSantas.com 14-15 38th annual “Holiday Home Tour,” benefiting Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans, 581-7032 22 “Holiday Home Tour,” benefiting Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré, 529-9755 23 “Home for the Holidays,” benefiting the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists and NOCCA, 310-4999 27-28 “2013 Creole Christmas,” presented

by Friends of the Cabildo, 523-3939, FriendsOfTheCabildo.org 31 “The Cinderella Ball & Bash,” benefiting The New Orleans Opera, 881-6442

EVENTS SUBMISSION If you would like your organization’s fundraising events to be listed in St. Charles Avenue’s Calendar of Events, please fill out this form and return to: St. Charles Avenue magazine 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123 Metairie, LA 70005 Attn: Morgan Packard fax 504/828-1385 or email: morgan@myneworleans.com

Organization name: Organization address: Contact name: Contact phone: Contact e-mail: Contact fax: Event name: Event address: Event date: Event time: Cost of event: Phone number for info. & tickets: Chairs and co-chairs:

Board members:

Honorees:

A brief description of event:

A brief description of your charity:

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cruisin’ the crescent

By Shelby Westfeldt mills

Recently I was looking through an old picture book of New Orleans from my great-grandfather’s era. As I flipped through the pages, it dawned on me that we have more in common than our DNA. You see, I’m in my early 30s, and I’ve seen, heard, smelled and tasted many of objects in the pictures.

Because New Orleans has preserved our buildings, cultures and traditions so well, many of our experiences are very similar to those of our ancestors.

When I walk to meetings from my office downtown I can’t help but think that my-great grandfather once observed a lot of the same things I do today. One hundred years ago in New Orleans jazz was popular, the architecture was gorgeous and you ate red beans and rice on Mondays. While we’ve traded yellow fever for yellow traffic cameras and we speak with more of a Yat accent then a French one, we still have a lot in common with the New Orleans of yesteryear. Our city has adapted with the changing times but has still maintained its rare charm.

We are creeping up on 2014, and this city hasn’t lost one ounce of its soul. The essence and culture of this city has been passed down from generation to generation as a legacy that must be preserved; it’s a grand inheritance that we’re lucky to carry forward. There aren’t many other places where you can dine at the same restaurant, sit and the same table and order the same eggs Sardou off the menu that your great-grandfather did. So the next time you want to travel back in time you don’t need to go to Colonial Williamsburg, just simply walk out your front door.

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The Chartwell Center had a big day when students and faculty participated in the groundbreaking of their new location on Magazine Street. The students painted their shovels gold and decorated hard hats for the occasion. Everyone was very enthusiastic about the future of the school, which is dedicated to children with autism and autism related issues.

1. Chartwell Center students and faculty celebrate the groundbreaking 2. High school students Sami El-Dahr and Dugan Westfeldt

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3. WTC CEO Dominik Knoll, WTC Chairman David Kearney and WTC Vice Chairman Eddy Hayes 4. WTC board members Lawrence Boudreaux (far left), Bobby Brannon (third from right) and Jerry Hingle (far right) pose with the other guests at the Ochsner table 5. The Honorable Pat Denechaud, Marian Wallis, Dominik Knoll, John and Emily Floren, Meg Mahoney and Roger Neumann pose with one of the auction items 6. WTC board member Marty Quist with wife Kathy

The World Trade Center (WTC) of New Orleans held the inaugural “Louisiana International Trade Gala” at The National World War II Museum this fall. More than 350 guests were entertained during the course of the night, which included a seated dinner prepared by John Besh and a dazzling performance by the Victory Belles. The WTC donated old memorabilia from their former office building for both silent and live auctions.

Emcee and auction chair Corrado Giacona headed the live auction, which included a silver-plated duck press with the Plimsoll trademark engraved on it. During dessert the first-ever Eugene J. Schreiber award was presented to Senator Mary Landrieu for her work and support of international trade. After dinner, the Joe Krown band kept the party going on the dance floor.

Heard something interesting for “cruisin’ the crescent?”

If so, please send it to: St. Charles Avenue, 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, La. 70005 or email: Shelby@MyNewOrleans.com

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skin deep

By Cat Wall Aschaffenburg

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Soliciting Santa 10 top beauty gifts Dear Santa, I hope you’re rested for your big trip. I want you to know that I’ve tried to be good all year. I’d really like it if you could bring me these 10 things:

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1. Guerlain ‘Liu Holiday Collection’ Perfumed

Shimmer Powder Face & Body: For when perfume is too heavy, this will give you the perfect scent and shimmer in one.

2. Bobbi Brown Everyday Pretty Lip & Eye Palette: This is too pretty for just everyday.

3. Deborah Lippmann ‘Run the World (Girls)’ Neon Mimi Nail Set: There isn’t a safe pink nail polish in the lot, but I’d wear every one of these shades – even that crazy yellow one.

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4. Lip Tar’s Matte Shades: Intensely pigmented

liquid lipstick gives a high-impact color that has staying power in one tiny tube.

5. Ciaté Caviar Manicures: These wildly impressive nail polishes are applied to wet polishes for a finished 3-D effect.

6. Kjær Weis’ Essential Trio Sets: 1, 2 or 3 – I’ll

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take them all!

7. Fresh’s Sugar Soirée Mini Lip Set: There is something in here for every lip need, from preventing chapping to the perfect just-bitten tint.

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8. 21 Drops’ blended oils: These, including the aptly titled Uplift, Calm, Sleep and Will Power, are meant to take one from tantrum to tranquil.

9. Sephora’s Deco Daze Clutch Brush Set: This will sweep me off my stiletto-clad feet – and it works as a small purse.

10. Lollia’s Eau de Parfum in Relax: To instantly

transport me to a serene place free of overplayed holiday jingles.

P.S. Tell Rudolph I love the song!

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Love, Cat

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what’s hot

By Lexi Wangler

Jewelry We wait all year for the splendid pageantry of holiday lights, especially on our beloved St. Charles Avenue. This year, bring some lights to yourself with gorgeous pieces crafted by local and international designers. Gift yourself or drop a few well-placed hints – you won’t regret it come Christmas morning.

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4 1. This wide diamond cuff bracelet is perfect for any lady wishing to shine this holiday season. Gently crafted, the gold and diamonds will surely set off your skin tone, if you can tear your eyes away from the sparkle. Adler’s, 722 Canal St., 523-5292, AdlersJewelry.com 2. Another stylish option for your fingers, this winter showstopper features sapphire and diamonds on a delicate band. Accent the season with cool blue sapphires, diamonds and silver for your own winter wonderland. Wellington & Company Fine Jewelry, 505 Royal St., 525-4855, WCJewelry.com 3. For the sassy New Orleans lady, here’s a fun shout-out to voodoo roots in your city. A simple yet lovely bracelet decorated with twin Day of the Dead skulls is a great way to show off your edgy side. Cristy Cali, available at multiple locations, 377-9575, CristysCollection.myshopify.com 4. Good things definitely come in threes this holiday season, with these three elegant pieces from Boudreaux’s. The left ring is set in platinum while the other two are set in 18 karat white gold – each a lovely option for ladies who prefer a silvery finish over rose and yellow gold. All three rings star yellow diamonds surrounded by white diamonds, with different widths of each band tailoring to your particular style. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, 701 Metairie Road, 831-2602, BoudreauxsJewelers.com 16 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

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5. Genius designer David Yurman strikes again this holiday season with this sterling silver Labyrinth diamond pendant on a silver box chain.

This classic piece sets the tone for your outfit – show off the diamonds by contrasting with a demure look or sparkle all over. Lee Michael’s Fine Jewelry, Lakeside Shopping Center, 832-0000, LMFJ.com 6. Inspire emerald envy this season with these green onyx and peridot earrings from Fleur D’ Orléans. These gemstone drop earrings are accented with gold and can be paired with a casual or dressy look. Fleur D’ Orléans, 3701A Magazine St., 899-5585, FleurDOrleans.com 7. If rings are your thing, this 18 karat rose gold Kunzite and round diamond ring glitters across the board, satisfying your craving for diamonds, rose gold and sheer fabulousness. Aucoin Hart Jewelers, 1525 Metairie Road, 835-9999 8. Light up your fingers with these beautiful gold diamond multi-colored gemstone stackable rings. Crafted of 14 karat gold and a variety of colors, mix and match or wear all at once to show off some flamboyant flair. Hiller Jewelry, 923 Metairie Road, HillerJewelry.com saintcharlesavenue.com | 17

on the menu recipe Drum With Orange Broth Mussels and Grapefruit Salad Orange Broth 2/3 cup orange juice 1 teaspoon roasted poblano peppers 1 Tablespoon cooked bacon (we prefer Nueske’s) 1 teaspoon shallots, minced 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced 1 Tablespoon butter 6 to 8 mussels Grapefruit Salad 3 to 4 Ruby Red grapefruit segments 1 teaspoon chives, minced 1 small handful frisée lettuce (only the delicate white part, avoid the green pats) 1 ounce basic vinaigrette (whatever your favorite is) Fish Drum or whatever mild white fish you prefer Salt and pepper to taste Pat fish dry with a paper towel and sear in a hot pan with canola oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

At the same time put all the ingredients for the broth in a pot and simmer for 30 seconds. Once the broth is simmering, add 6 to 8 mussels, depending on the size, and boil until the mussels open.

To plate, place cooked fish in the bottom of a bowl. Pour broth and mussels over fish and top with mixed salad. Serves 1.

Citrus Cheer Chef Ray Gruezke shares his Drum With Orange Broth Mussels and Grapefruit Salad

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Rue 127: 127 N. Carrollton Ave., 483-1571, Rue127.com

photographed by jeffery johnston

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the dish

By Gwendolyn Knapp

TRY THIS

Grilled quail with a glass of red wine at Marti’s

The casual bar at Lucky Rooster is perfect for letting loose when it’s chilly outside if you order a Cajun Luau (with coconut hooch and fire-roasted agave syrup) along with the fiery hot Korean fried chicken wings.

Downtown Cheer Raising the bar this holiday season The holidays … Guests visit.

Elaborate dinners are held every night. Whether you want to escape the family or you just need to improvise on some holiday cheer, saddling up to the restaurant bar downtown is always a good option, especially when a full and fabulous dinner menu is available.

If you’re taking in The Nutcracker at the Saenger Theatre or just strolling through the French Quarter, Marti’s is a wonderful choice for early

or late-night bar dining. Open until midnight seven nights a week, the recently revamped restaurant (which many of you will remember from back in its hey day) has been lovingly restored by the Gautreau’s team. The bar area is dark, a bit of a man cave with an opulent twist. A large mural of City Park’s Peristyle remains behind the bar, and there are several tables bedecked in white linen awaiting diners or drinkers.

Here you’ll fine wonderful

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service, a selective wine list and the perfect food to pair with it.

Start with the deviled farm eggs, heaping with lump crabmeat and a little spice provided by a chile mayonnaise. Next, the crab fritters, perfectly fried and floating atop a caper aioli you might take for a better remoulade. A wealth of raw bar offerings (with an actual, visible raw bar) abound, with astonishing platters of seafood, including raw oysters. But chef Drew Lockett, a Louisiana native, has a knack for the meatier side of the menu, turning out perfectly tender steak, which seems like an easy feat, but this is the place to go for it. The grilled quail is a wintertime must, juicy and served with tender sage spaetzle, local mushrooms and a pommery mustard sauce.

Domenica doesn’t have loads of bar space, but it’s truly one of the best bars to dine at year-round and especially to take out-oftowners to during the holidays when the Roosevelt Hotel “decks the halls.” Catch the restaurant at an earlier or later dinner hour and you’ll be happy to saddle up to the bar for a wealth of craft cocktails and the same menu as the dining room. Here chef Alon Shaya’s menu truly shines during the winter months, with seasonal produce on display via daily specials and rustic Italian pastas and appetizers warming the heart for the holiday season. Folks with an evening to kill should order Domenica’s signature roasted cauliflower (served with sea salt and whipped goat feta), which is an absolute head-turner and a must for visiting guests,

before strolling through the Roosevelt to the newly reopened Fountain Lounge for some live music (Thursdays-Saturdays) and a dozen oysters from the raw bar.

Then mosey over to the Sazerac Bar for some classic cocktails – but make sure to have a reindeer drive your sleigh home.

Sainte Marie Brasserie has gone through some serious changes in the kitchen and at the bar in the past year, and now they’re heating up as one of the most promising restaurants in New Orleans. The cocktail program, overseen by Murf Reeves (formerly of Sylvain and Bar Tonique) features an array of drinks that will put some hair on your chest. From chartreuse specialties to barrel aged booze, Reeves and his team have a knack for creating classic and contemporary drinks perfect for pre-gaming, whether heading to the Superdome or to see A John Waters Christmas at the nearby Civic Theatre. In the kitchen, chef Kristen Essig has been gaining a lot of praise for her thoughtful approach to locally sourced bistro fare.

Everything you thought you knew about bistro fare is turned on its head here, and for the better; a crab salad may come stuffed inside a tenderly cooked artichoke, or in a specialty affogato dessert the espresso might be replaced with a dark stout beer with notes of chocolate and coffee doused over a heaping scoop of bier noir sorbetto.

It is these fun elements that Essig uses to her advantage, making Sainte Marie Brasserie a hot spot for dinner and drinks. n

Domenica: 123 Baronne St., 648-6020, DomenicaRestaurant.com Lucky Rooster: 515 Baronne St., 529-LUCK (5825), LuckyRoosterNola.com Marti’s: 1041 Dumaine St., 522-5478 Sainte Marie Brasserie: 930 Poydras St., 304-6988, SteMarieNola.com

photographed by sara essex bradley

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philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

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10 Years of LOVE New Orleans Museum of Art celebrated its sculpture garden.

The first fall evening of the season saw another successful “LOVE in the Garden,” NOMA’s annual benefit for the popular and beautiful Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. The garden party was held in the evening, with a patron party beforehand. Under the ancient oaks, guests fraternized and mingled to the dulcet tones of local favorites the Brass-A-Holics and the Dominic Minx Trio.

Catering was provided by a wide variety of local vendors, including Café Degas, Commander’s Palace, Coquette and Delachaise, just to name a few.

Co-chairs Elizabeth LeBlanc and Jennifer Rareshide organized the evening honoring five local artists for their impact on the cultural community of New Orleans. Honored artists included Courtney Egan, Lin Emery, Richard Johnson, Grouver Mouton and Amanda Stone Talley.

On the 10th anniversary of the erection of the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, the honored artists had their work acknowledged in a short presentation during the patron party, which then proceeded smoothly into the garden party. Proceeds from the event go towards exhibitions at NOMA, as well as the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, which is free and open to the public. n

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event at a glance What: 10th annual “LOVE in the Garden,” benefiting the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden When: Friday, September 27 Where: Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

1. Price and Christine LeBlanc with co-chair Jennifer and John Rareshide 2. Pam Bryan, Scott Howard and Hallie Boh 3. Honorary Chair Sydney Besthoff, NOMA Director Susan Taylor and Honorary Chair Walda Besthoff 4. Carol Short and Grover Mouton 5. Partygoers dance the night away 6. Executive chef of Broussard’s Guy Reinbolt serves attendees

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Photographed by melissa calico

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philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

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Belles & Beaus It was an action-packed evening at ACS’s “Dressed to Cure.”

A late September evening saw the 13th annual “Belles & Beaus Ball” at Mardi Gras World honor 20 men and women who have made significant contributions in the fight against cancer.

The “Dressed to Cure” theme accented the elegant evening, complete with a fashion show by the Shops at Canal Place.

Event co-chairs Clark Castle, Erin Debaillon, Allison Shapiro and David Boyd Williams were delighted with the success of the evening, which raised over $150,000. The “Belles & Beaus Ball,” formerly known as the “Hope Gala,” featured celebrity chefs, live entertainment, dancing and a silent auction. Event co-chair Clark Castle co-emceed with Nancy Parker of WVUE Fox 8. ACS announced the esteemed honorees in July at the patron party. These fantastic members of the community included Nicki Candies, Mark Berger, Chimene Grant Connor, Bob Breck, Betsie Gambel, Richard Colton Jr., Jeanette Landreyt, Robert Gardner Ph.D., Dr. Zoe Larned, Becker Hall, Lorrie Lee, Dr. Daniel Johnson, Carole Neff, Brian Kern, Suzi Swoop O’Brien, Dr. Siddhartha Padmanabha, Lauren Thom, Dr. Stephen Terry Kraus, Annie Flettrich and Hugh Weber. Celebrity chefs Ed Cotton, Betty Fraser, Grayson Schmitz, Tracey Bloom, Manouschka Guerrier and Gason Nelson competed for “Best Dish” as part of the festivities. All the chefs performed admirably, but Guerrier swept the judges away with an avocado ice cream with toasted coconut and caramel drizzle. Gina Brown and Anutha Level wowed guests with their musical talent, while the silent auction offered a chance to win trips to Salt Lake City, Maine and the Siesta Keys.

Proceeds of the evening went to benefit the American Cancer Society programs in research, education, advocacy and patient services. n

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event at a glance What: 13th annual “Belles & Beaus Ball,” benefiting the American Cancer Society When: Friday, September 27 Where: Mardi Gras World

1. Lorelei Ashe, Tom Cianfichi, Bryan Batt and honoree Betsie Gambel 2. Robert Gardner, Becker Hall, emcee Nancy Parker and Glen Boyd 3. Missy Quigley and Stephanie O’Brien with Sherie and John LeBlanc 4. Jack Sloan, honoree Dr. Zoe Larned and co-chair Clark Castle 5.

Shelley Duran, Shaun Walker, honoree Annie Flettrich and Reid Stone 6. Brian Kern and Lynae Fearing

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Photographed by melissa calico

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philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

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Roll Out the Black and Gold Carpet Sean Payton’s Play It Forward Foundation raised awareness and spirits.

Without a doubt, the “Black and Gold Gala” was the event of this football season. Organized by Karen Hegman and the “Black and Gold” Committee, the black-tie red carpet event sold out and raised millions for Saints Head Coach Sean Payton’s Play It Forward Foundation.

Founded in 2008, Sean Payton’s personal philanthropy organization raises funds and awareness for groups working with families and children in the areas of health, education and social welfare. The star-studded evening graced by Jon Gruden, NFL analyst for ESPN and Master of Ceremonies, honorary chair John Besh and country star Kenney Chesney, included music, dancing, fun and food.

A VIP party at Bunker Lounge preceded the gala, and Ochsner Health Center shone as the major sponsor of the evening. Kenney Chesney performed following a seated dinner, and a spirited auction included many choice items, including a decked-out tailgate trailer, an ESPN package to an away game in Seattle and a trip to the FOX Sports headquarters, along with lunch and a meet-andgreet with FOX Sports analysts and commentators. n

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event at a glance What: Third annual “Black and Gold Gala,” benefiting Sean Payton’s Play It Forward Foundation When: Saturday, September 28 Where: Mercedes-Benz Superdome

1. Skylene Montgomery and Sean Payton 2. Tom and Gayle Benson 3. Rob and Kristin Ryan 4. Olivia Ruby and Garrett Hartley 5. Brian and Makenzie De La Puente 6. Thomas and Lauren Morstead

26 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by Melissa Calico

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saintcharlesavenue.com | 27

philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

1

Honoring An Archbishop Catholic Cultural Heritage Center unveiled its new exhibition.

The Catholic Cultural Heritage Center threw a celebratory gala on October 4 to mark the opening and serve as a preview for the long-awaited exhibit, “The Archbishop Wore Combat Boots: The Life & Ministry of Archbishop Philip M. Hannan.” Held at the picturesque Old Ursuline Convent Museum, the patron party began at 6:45 p.m. with bottles of champagne and hors d’oeuvres.

Barbara Turner Windhorst, chair of the Catholic Cultural Heritage Center, gave the presentation in St. Mary’s Chapel honoring the Reverend Monsignor Crosby W. Kern.

Archbishop Aymond presented the Monsignor posthumously with the Francisco Cardinal Marchisano Award, which was accepted on his behalf by Archbishop-emeritus Alfred Hughes. The gala began promptly at 8, featuring a patriotic theme, complete with ice sculptures shaped like combat boots. Bistreaux at the Bank provided the evening’s cuisine – jazzed up versions of Archbishop Hannan’s favorite meals – and libations by Republic Beverage included specialty cocktails designed specifically for the event. Guests serenaded by the Pfister Sisters were free to wander and preview the exhibit. Co-chairs of the event Janice Foulks and Errin Erdal-Bellan and their talented committee deemed the event a great success. The exhibit will be open at the Old Ursuline Convent Museum through May 2014. n

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event at a glance What: “The Archbishop Wore Combat Boots: The Life & Ministry of Archbishop Philip M. Hannan Exhibition Preview & Gala,” benefiting the Catholic Cultural Heritage Center When: Friday, October 4 Where: Old Ursuline Convent Museum

1. Mary Kern and Archbishop Alfred Hughes 2. Tommy, Klara, Leanne and Heidi Cvitanovich 3. Kip and Peggy Laramie with JT and Katherine Hannan 4. Deacon Larry and Andie Oney 5. Wendy and Sen. David Vitter 6. Nell and Guy Chiappette with Dorinda Bordlee

28 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by melissa calico

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philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

1

Doing Good for the Whole Child “Good Students Gala” honored female role models.

The Childhood and Family Learning Foundation held its “Good Kids + Good Health = Good Students Gala” at the St. Charles Avenue home of Jennifer and Fred Heebe on October 9. A philanthropic organization focused on helping students receive the care they need to graduate, the foundation hosted the cocktail reception to honor women who have achieved respect and popularity in the news media.

Honorees included Margarita Bergen, Renette Dejoie Hall, Angela Hill, Peggy Scott Laborde, Maria Muro, Nell Nolan, Nicondra Norwood, Margaret Orr and Sally-Ann Roberts.

Proceeds of the event went to the Coordinated Care for the Whole Child Program.

Over 200 guests enjoyed an evening of formal elegance, with entertainment by vocalist Kara Klein and pianist Kristin Alvarado. Fresh flowers, original art and antiques adorned the Heebe home, along with champagne, wine and a buffet donated by Fleur de Lis Catering. Each honoree had the opportunity to speak to the crowd regarding their support of education and the influence education has had on their lives and careers. Lauren Thom, the creator of Fleurty Girl, produced specially ordered T-shirts for the honorees to commemorate the occasion. n

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event at a glance What: “Good Kids + Good Health = Good Students Gala,” benefiting the Childhood & Family Learning Foundation When: Wednesday, October 9 Where: Home of Jennifer and Fred Heebe

1. Honorees Peggy Scott Laborde and Nell Nolan with Emily Degan 2. Honoree Angela Hill, Lauren “Fleurty Girl” Thom and honoree Sally-Ann Roberts 3. Board member Marlin Gusman with honorees Renette Dejoie Hall and Margaret Orr

30 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by jeff strout

saintcharlesavenue.com | 31

philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

1

Preserving Old World Elegance Vieux Carré Commission Foundation hosted a “Gala at Galatoire’s.”

Four hundred guests attended the Vieux Carré Commission Foundation’s smash of an event, “Gala at Galatoire’s.” Held in the historic restaurant, this glittering affair successfully raised money for the Vieux Carré Commission, an underfunded city agency seeking to preserve New Orleans’ oldest and most famous neighborhood: the French Quarter.

Attendees gathered to celebrate and raise funds for the cobbled, confusing and beautiful section of the city. Guests of the patron party began their evening promptly at half past 5, joined by renowned musician Allen Toussaint as the musical accompaniment. The patron party was co-chaired

by Sydney Anderson and Juli Miller Hart, while Pam Lupin and Leslie Stokes teamed up to serve as co-chairs for the gala. Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. took his turn on the stage for the main event, alongside celebrity auctioneer Ruthie Winston and favorite local celebrity Bryan Batt. Cuisine was provided by 12 different French Quarter restaurants, including Antoine’s, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, Bayona, and of course, Galatoire’s. Auction highlights included the generous gift of The Cove Resort owner Sidney Torres IV, who donated a long weekend at his hotel in the Bahamas. n

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event at a glance What: “Gala at Galatoire’s,” benefiting the Vieux Carré Commission Foundation When: Monday, October 7 Where: Galatoire’s

1. Co-chairs Pam Lupin and Leslie Stokes 2. President Tee Zimmermann and chairman Dr. Ralph Lupin 3. Patron party co-chair Sydney Anderson, auctioneer Bryan Batt and patron party co-chair Juli Miller-Hart

32 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by Melissa Calico

saintcharlesavenue.com | 33

philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

1

Crusading and Surviving Cancer Crusaders honored 12 active survivors.

The afternoon of September 26 saw the 13th annual Cancer Crusaders “Celebration of Life” luncheon held in the New Orleans Marriott Hotel. Honoring notable local cancer survivors, the luncheon was lavishly attended by both present and past honorees. Chaired by Debbie Buchler and Dawn Miller, the guests were alternately serenaded and secondlined into the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott by local favorite Magazine Street Brass Band. The music complemented the décor, which included centerpiece Jazzmen sculptures and a further New Orleans-themed silent auction. Memorable items included a painting by Cancer Crusaders member and past honoree Gloria Parrish, a Drew Brees Superbowl XLIV Football in its original case and Lee Michaels diamond earrings.

This year’s honorees included Anicia “Nee-Cee” Cheri, Pat Dean Cochran, Virginia DiBenedetto, Courtney Edwards, Tracey Hammill, June Lampe, Sr. Marjorie Millet O.P., Nomie Leininger Moore, Carol Ryan, Gloria Simoneaux Ruiz, Norma Jane Sabiston and Carol Short.

Undoubtedly the high points of the event included a generous donation from the Louisiana Breast Cancer Task Force, a check in excess of $23,000 presented by Maria Burkhardt to Cancer Crusaders. All funds raised by Cancer Crusaders, a local volunteer fundraising organization supporting cancer research at LSUHSC and Tulane Medical Center, are donated to LSUHSC and Tulane Medical Center for cancer research. n

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event at a glance What: “Celebration of Life” luncheon, benefiting Cancer Crusaders When: Thursday, September 26 Where: Marriott New Orleans Hotel

1. Sister Marjorie Millet with honorees Anicia “Nee-Cee” Cheri and Pat Dean Cochran 2. Honorees Carol Ryan, Tracey Hammill and Virginia DiBenedetto 3. Honorees Norma Jane Sabiston, Carol Short and Gloria Simoneaux Ruiz

34 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by melissa calico

The White Horse by Felix Garmendia

Wine & Painting Parties Have a fun and relaxing painting class in our gallery.

Bring your favorite bottle of wine and discover the artist in you.

3646 Magazine St. | New Orleans www.GarmendiaArtGallery.com saintcharlesavenue.com | 35

philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

1

Golden Tassels for All Jefferson Dollars for Scholars celebrated 20 years.

Jefferson Dollars for Scholars celebrated its 20th anniversary with its “Golden Tassel Gala” on September 27. This evening of fun regaled its guests with a cakewalk, auction, raffle and a whole lot of Creole and Cajun cuisine. This incredible organization aims to expand access to educational opportunities for Jefferson Parish Public School students through scholarships and academic support and has raised over $15.3 million to date. Patron party chairs Dr. James Meza Jr., superintendent of Jefferson Parish Schools, and the honorable Larry Dale, school board president, kicked off the evening with a menu from Galatoire’s, GW Fins, Pascal’s Manale, Ovations Food Services and Grace King ProStart.

The Honorable John Young served as the event chair for the gala, which featured an unconventional game – the Golden Tassel Pull. Golden Tassel Pulls were available to guests for $20 each and would reveal a prize worth up to $100 when pulled. Auction highlights included a kids swim clinic with Olympian Ryan Lochte, a Silver Oak Wine package and a week-long stay at a private villa for 12 people an hour south of Rome. n

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event at a glance What: “Golden Tassel Gala,” benefiting Jefferson Dollars for Scholars When: Friday, September 27 Where: 4545 Williams Boulevard

1. Lisa Conescu, Wayne Nocito, Sydna Barocco and Amber Stevens 2. Todd Murphy, Monica Pierre and Todd Acomb 3. Jay Ceravolo, Lynn Wolken, Cindy Enright and Bob Ebberman

36 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by Kenny Martinez

philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

1

A One, A Two …

Tulane University hosted its 12th annual “Helluva Hullabaloo Auction and Party.”

Chair and member of the board at Tulane University Jill Glazer organized the 12th annual “Helluva Hullabaloo Auction and Party” to great success on October 4 at Tulane University’s Lavin-Berneck Center at the Uptown campus. Celebrity auctioneer Bryan Batt did the honors at the casual and crazy fun party that coincided with Tulane’s homecoming weekend. Over 400 Tulane supporters and alumni attended the auction, including Tulane President Scott Cowen, Tulane Board Chair Daryl Berger and several board and president’s council members. Olive Blue Catering served delicious treats, while outside the homecoming fireworks provided the accompaniment.

The auction was the highlight of the evening, with silent, live and online portions. Choice items included a tour of the set of popular British period drama, “Downton Abbey,” tickets to Broadway hit Kinky Boots, a stay at a chateau in the Perigord region of France, tickets to the New York Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in November and tickets to the 2014 Super Bowl. The theme, of course, was Tulane’s Green Wave. n

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event at a glance What: 12th annual “Helluva Hullabaloo Auction,” benefiting Tulane Empowers When: Friday, October 4 Where: Lavin-Bernick Center. Tulane University

1. President Scott and Marjorie Cowen 2. Luis and Anne Banos 3. Auction chair Jill and Avie Glazer

38 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by Kenny Martinez

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saintcharlesavenue.com | 39

philanthropic fun

By Lexi Wangler

1

Vive le Vieux Carré!

The VCPORA’s 75th and most successful fundraiser yet.

Deemed by organizers as the Vieux Carré Property Owners, Residents & Associates, Inc.’s most successful gala ever, the “75th Diamond Anniversary Gala” made the historic Cabildo in Jackson Square sparkle on September 28. Co-chaired by Brenda and Michael Moffitt, the gala began at 7 in the evening, with a patron party held at Dickie Brennan’s new hotspot, Tableau, immediately before. Cuisine and libations for the main event were provided by a wide variety of New Orleans restaurants and bars, from Bayona to Mojito’s.

Leah Chase Kamato and band lit up the stage, while local favorite Bryan Batt served as celebrity auctioneer and “Saturday Night Live” cast member Darrell Hammond performed a comedy sketch.

The silent and live auctions were both star-studded, featuring items such as a Friend & Company brooch, local hotel getaways and 10 days for 10 people in Provence, France. Proceeds from this event go to preserving the Vieux Carré as a national treasure, maintaining its quaint and distinctive character, and toward achieving in that historic, living neighborhood a quality of life which can be enjoyed by residents, fellow citizens, local businesses and visitors. n

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event at a glance What: “75th Diamond Anniversary Gala,” benefiting the Vieux Carré Property Owners, Residents & Associates, Inc. When: Saturday, September 28 Where: The Cabildo

1. Chuck Garber, Rodney Villarreal, Meg Lousteau and Napoleon Bonaparte 2. Edward Bonin, Hon. Jacquelyn Brechtel Clarkson and Rene Fransen 3. Co-chairs Brenda and Michael Moffitt

40 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Photographed by melissa calico

saintcharlesavenue.com | 41

ACTI V I S TS OF THE

2013

BY LEXI WANGLER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFFERY JOHNSTON

YEAR

St. Charles Avenue magazine is proud to present its Activists of the Year 2013: Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin, boysie bollinger, julie livaudais george, susan read johnson, allen toussaint and rod west.

By honoring these six locals, we’re honoring the gifts of their time, their efforts and their energies that they have given to our city.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 43

Awards

Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin

W

hen looking for ways to give back, Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin counsels you to look for things that you love. Benjamin, a lifelong lover of music, brought her extensive talents and undeniable passion to the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, formerly the New Orleans Symphony. “Every great city needs a symphony,” she says, and a symphony has never needed anyone more than Benjamin. “I saw in the paper that the symphony was going under,” she remembers, “and I called them and asked them not to close. The next day, the president and members of the symphony board were on my front step.” Two months later she was on the board, and then president of the symphony for five years. She came into the position when the symphony was $3 million in debt, and five years later she handed it over to her successor with a perfectly balanced budget and completely debt free. Years later, Benjamin notes that it wasn’t an easy task, “My children were teenagers and my husband and I had always liked to travel when he took his vacation. I told him to take the kids and go without me, but after [everything] had settled down, he took me back to every place they had gone.”

Adelaide’s involvement with the New Orleans Symphony didn’t end at the administrative side – she was also a soprano in the chorus and sang with the Trinity Trio for 54 years.

“Now I sing around the house,” she says cheerfully. Bejamin’s commitment to the community stretches beyond the bounds of music to education and the arts in general. She remains passionate about her involvement with Louise McGehee School, Metairie Park Country Day School, Loyola University, the New Orleans Opera Association and other organizations.

“My mother and father were givers,” she says immediately when asked what inspires her to give back. “It never occurred to me not to give back, it’s just the way I was raised.” Her grandfather started the RosaMary Foundation to provide for widows and children after his own father died when he was 13. “I’m the sixth generation of my family to live in New Orleans. I grew up in a house 100 feet away from my house now, and my son and his family live there now. This is home to me,” she says of the city.

44 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

New Orleans Magazine, Top Female Achiever; Loyola University, Honorary Doctor of Arts; Tulane University Emeritus Club, Outstanding Alumnus of Class of 1954; Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Award for Community Service; Loyola University, Honorary Trustee Emeritus; Loyola University, President’s Council Integritas Vitae Award; Loyola University, College of Business Jacques Yenni Award for Outstanding Community Service; Junior League, Sustainer Award for Civic Achievement; National Conference of Christians and Jews, Weiss Brotherhood Award; National Society of Fundraising Executives and the Greater New Orleans Foundation, Outstanding Philanthropist; Young Leadership Council, Significant Role Model; Louise McGehee School, Distinguished Alumna Award; Gambit’s Classical Arts Patron Award; Epilepsy Foundation Award for Community Service; Family Service of Greater New Orleans, one of “Ten Outstanding Persons of 1994”; Louisiana Colonials, Outstanding Citizen of New Orleans; Hilton Hotel’s Walk of Fame Award; St. Elizabeth’s Guild, Volunteer Activist Award; Arts Council of New Orleans, Mayor’s Arts Awards; Girl Scouts, Woman of Distinction; Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Living and Giving Award; Freedoms Foundation National Award: the George Washington Honor Medal for Excellence in Individual Achievement; Contemporary Arts Center, “Sweet Art” Award; Governor’s Commission on International Trade, Industry & Tourism, Goodwill Ambassador for Louisiana; Josephine Louise Newcomb Society, inaugural member; Paul Tulane Society, member; Loyola University’s Heritage Society, inaugural member; Marquis Who’s Who in America, American Education, American Women, Finance and Industry, South and Southwest and the World

past and present organizations New Orleans Symphony, former president; Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, executive board member; Louisiana Museum Foundation Board, former board member, former member of the executive committee, present honorary board member; Louise S. McGehee School, former honorary member of the board of directors, present member of the board, former vice president and present elected life member of the board; Ed and Adelaide Foundation, trustee; RosaMary Foundation, trustee; Mary Freeman Wisdom Foundation, trustee, former president and present secretary; Thomas Wolfe Society, honorary life member; Junior League of New Orleans, member and former member of steering committee; Tulane University Summer Lyric Theatre, former president of advisory board and present member; New Orleans Opera Association, board member; New Orleans Symphony Chorus, former chorus member and present board member; Quarante Literary Club, former vice president and present member; New Orleans Town Gardeners, former president

Awards CityBusiness, 2010 Driving Forces Program, Honoree; Woodrow Wilson Award for Corporate Citizenship; Boy Scouts, Distinguished Citizen Award; The Chamber of Lafourche Special Recognition Award; C. Alvin Bertel Award; Louisiana Entrepreneur of the Year; Business Hall of Fame, Junior Achievement of New Orleans; Maritime Man of the Year, Propeller Club of the US, Port of New Orleans; Businessman of the Year Award

past and present organizations

boysie bollinger

A

lthough a native of Lockport, Donald T. “Boysie” Bollinger has a lot to give to New Orleans. Raised in Lockport and a graduate of Louisiana University, Lafayette, he’s President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards, Inc., a family-owned business established in 1946 that provides full service for marine construction and ship repairs all over Louisiana and part of Texas; he also owns and operates a fleet of oilfield service vessels under its Beemar subsidiary. He served under the President (George H.W. Bush) Export Council and he’s currently a member of the National Petroleum Council, among a long list of other organizations. A husband and father of three sons, Bollinger acknowledges his family as his greatest achievement among many, “[Juggling a family and a career is] difficult, but when the focus is right, the missions are important and the effort makes a difference – there’s always time.”

Bollinger has supported a range of activities, from being a regular at the Port of New Orleans as his career calls for, to serving on numerous boards of charitable foundations.

Most importantly to him, he’s a member of the board of trustees of the National World War II Museum. “I support many organizations,” Bollinger admits, “but that’s the one I’m most passionate about. It means so much to the city, the state and the nation. America’s experience in World War II, why it was fought, how it was won and what it means to future generations – these are all things that should never be forgotten.”

Bollinger credits his father for his inspiration to activism. “He always felt that God had been good to us and we should give back. It was natural, and seems the more we got involved, the more we wanted to do.” For New Orleans, he wants what many local businessmen wish for: “We need to induce more corporate headquarters to locate here. That’s one thing we’ve lost and it’s hard to re-establish. I love everything [about this city],” he says. “The culture, the music, the food, the people. It has personality, which most other cities don’t share.”

American Battle Monuments Commission, former commissioner; American Family Business Institute, former member of board of directors; Blueprint for Louisiana, member of the board of trustees; Bollinger Shipyards, Inc. and its subsidiaries, CEO & Chairman, Board of Directors; Boy Scouts of America, Southeast Region, executive board member; Bring Back New Orleans Commission, former member of board of directors; Chief Executive Organization, regional vice president and member of the International Board of Directors; CSC Assurance, former advisory board member; Committee for a Better New Orleans, former member of board of directors; The Committee of 100 (C100) Economical Development, Inc., member; Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Energy Advisory Council, member; Federal Reserve Bank (Jacksonville Branch), former member of the Trade & Transportation Advisory Council Board; First Bank & Trust, chairman and member of the board of directors; First Trust Corporation, director; LA Workers Compensation Corp, chairman and member of the board of directors; Louisiana Committee for Republican Majority, co-chairman; Louisiana Recovery Authority, former member of the board of directors; National Ocean Industries Association, member of the board of directors and former chairman; National World War II Museum, member of the board of trustees; The Nature Conservancy, Louisiana Region, member of the board of directors; New Orleans Business Council, member and former chairman; NSU Foundation, chairman and member of the board of directors; President’s Export Council, under the administration of President George HW Bush, member; RAND, Gulf/Regional, advisory board member US Coast Guard Foundation, member of the board of trustees, trustee emeritus; Republican Governor’s Association, executive roundtable member; Signal Mutual Indemnity Association, member of the board of directors; Shipbuilders Council of America, executive board member Webb Institute, member of the board of trustees; United Way, General Campaign Chairman; University of Louisiana Systems, former member of the board of directors; University Medical Center Management Corporation, member of the board of directors; Webb Institute, member of the board of trustees; World President’s Organization, Louisiana Chapter, member saintcharlesavenue.com | 45

Awards Women of Fashion Prix d’Elegance Award; Junior League, Sustainer of the Year; CityBusiness, Leadership in Law Award; St. Elizabeth’s Guild, Top Ten Volunteer Activists; New Orleans City Council, Woman of Distinction; YWCA, Role Model; Martindale-Hubbell Bar Register of Preeminent Women Lawyers; Top 25 Women Lawyers in Louisiana; Best Lawyers in America for Labor & Employment Law; Louisiana Super Lawyers; New Orleans Best Lawyers

past and present organizations

julie livaudais george

J

ulie Livaudais George sparkles on and off the page; a partner at law firm Chaffe McCall, she has been described by friends and admirers as an inspiration and role model as she continues to lead a successful law career and serve the community in as many ways as she can, in addition to being a wife and mother. An alumna of Metairie Park Country Day School, Stanford University and Tulane Law, George began volunteering during her time at Country Day, though she acknowledges her parents, grandparents and their friends for piquing her interest at a much younger age, “They were involved in all kinds of capacities,” she remembers, “and had such a great time doing it!

[In high school,] I learned how much need there was and that everyone has something to offer to help fill that need.” She continues, “I still remember the kids I mentored in summer programs back then – one of them calls me to this day!” She notes with pleasure that her own children, who she describes as her greatest success, are active volunteers in the community as well, passing on her family’s activist legacy. Country Day helped vault George into her adult volunteer activities, along with the Junior League of New Orleans.

She served on Country Day’s board of trustees as member and chair throughout the late 1990s and 2000s, and as president and member of the board of directors of the Junior League. George credits her husband Ted for her success, as well as her children, friends and her law firm Chaffe McCall for their support of community service and her efforts.

For George, New Orleans is nothing if not its people, “What I love most about New Orleans is the joie de vivre and sense of humor of the people.” Indeed, her list of organizations spans across a great variety of groups, all with different goals and passions. “I want to see New Orleans retain her unique cultural identity while regaining her status as the Queen of the South,” she says. “Attracting and retaining businesses, intellectuals and young people is what we all should work on.”

46 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Louisiana Children’s Medical Center, vice chair; New Orleans Museum of Art, board secretary and former chair of Volunteer Committee; Greater New Orleans Community Data Center, chair; Garden Club of America, co-chair of 2014 Annual Meeting; Tulane Law School Dean’s Advisory Board, member and former chair; Agenda for Children, board member and former chair; Bureau of Governmental Research, board member; Longue Vue House & Gardens, board member and former president; Metairie Park Country Day School, former member and chair of the board of trustees; Junior League, former president, former member of the board of directors, and Endowment Campaign Cabinet member; Garden Study Club of New Orleans, former president; Women of Trinity Church, former president; Women of the Storm, member; Friends of NOCCA, former board member; Louisiana Children’s Museum, former board member

Awards St. Elizabeth’s Guild, Volunteer Activist Award; Family Service of Greater New Orleans, TOP Award; Association of Fundraising Professionals, New Orleans Chapter, Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer; Archdiocese of New Orleans, Order of St. Louis Award; Junior League, Sustainer of the Year; Children’s Hospital, Sugar Plum Ball Honoree; Young Leadership Council, Role Model; Longue Vue House & Gardens, Honorary Chair

past and present organizations

susan read johnson

L

ove is undoubtedly the powerful force that drives Susan Read Johnson. Gracious and elegant, Johnson lights up when she mentions her family – her husband, three daughters and eight grandchildren, whom she describes as the loves of her life. They are also the inspiration for her myriad achievements and passionate involvement in the community. “My father, Louis Read, was always incredibly involved,” she says.

“It’s something my brother and I learned from him, the importance of giving back.” She also credits her Catholic upbringing for instilling in her the passion of activism, especially Catholic Charities. “Whatever happens, they’re always there. During and after Katrina, the BP oil spill and Hurricane Isaac, Catholic Charities was there, out front. They just keep on giving, no matter what. I’m so proud to be a part of that.” Johnson has been greatly involved with the Archbishop Hannan Community Appeal, which funds the work of Catholic Charities projects. “I’ll have to find a way to stay involved after this year, I’m so sad to leave the board,” she says.

Johnson also holds Children’s Hospital close to her heart, especially after her granddaughter and namesake became very ill. “They took such amazing care of her and our family.

I’ll never forget that.” Susan is doing great now, but Johnson continues to show her appreciation and gratitude towards Children’s Hospital as a member and former chair of the board of trustees. She was also honored at Children’s Hospital annual “Sugar Plum Ball” in 2009.

For Johnson, helping people is intertwined with the city she loves. “I was born and raised here in this delightful place,” she marvels. “The people, the culture, the diversity – I feel lucky to be here.” She sees Katrina and its aftermath as a positive experience that has forced New Orleans to become even more resilient. After Katrina she was involved with Citizens for 1 Greater New Orleans that initially focused on reform and now directs its energies to education.

Junior League, present member and former committee chair; Garden Study Club, member; New Orleans Country Club Ladies Golf Association, member; Lakewood Ladies Golf Association, member; United Way, former member of the board of directors; Maison Hospitaliere, former member of the board of directors; Children’s Hospital, present member of the board of trustees, former vice-chairwoman, former chair of the board of trustees; Longue Vue House & Gardens, former president, former member of the board of directors and former committee co-chair; Academy of the Sacred Heart, former member of the alumnae board and Capitol Campaign steering committee; Archbishop Hannan Community Appeal, present member, former member of the executive committee and former chair; HermannGrima+Gallier Historic Houses, former member of the board of directors, former benefit chair, former member of the executive committee, former board chair, former fund development co-chair; Archdiocesan Spirituality Center, former board member, present emerita board member; Catholic Charities, present chair of the board of directors, former vice president; Selley Foundation Board of Trustees, member; National Donor Awareness Foundation, former member of the board of directors; Ochsner Hospital Board of Councilors for Women’s Health, former member; Lambeth House Foundation, former member of the board of directors; Impact 100 Women’s Giving Circle, an Initiative of The Greater New Orleans Foundation, founding member; Citizens for 1 Greater New Orleans, member; Women of the Storm, member saintcharlesavenue.com | 47

Awards National Medal of Arts; Tulane University, honorary doctorate degree of fine arts; Blues Hall of Fame inductee; Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee; Louisiana Music Hall of Fame inductee; Multiple Grammy Nominations; Grammy Trustees Award; OffBeat, Best of the Beat Award, Artist of the Year, Album of the Year and Best Traditional Jazz Album: The Bright Mississippi, Best Piano/Keyboardist; Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, inductee; Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award; Annual Heroes & Legends Award, honoree; Gambit, Lifetime Achievement in Music Award, Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year: River in Reverse

past and present organizations

allen toussaint

O

ne of New Orleans’ most illustrious musicians, Allen Toussaint is recognized on and off stage not only for his sheer talent, but also for the many good works he has done and continues to do for the city. If there could be a single person who encapsulates the spirit of New Orleans, it would be Toussaint. He even moves with the slow and content pace with which locals instantly identify. “To some futurists it might seem a little slow,” he allows. “I see it as relaxed and groovy. We’re in no big hurry to leave what we have to get someplace else, physically or philosophically.” Relaxed and groovy may be represent feelings in his music, but they hardly describe Toussaint’s long and successful career.

Magazines, books and biographies can go on for pages about Toussaint’s last 50 years in the music industry, but people close to him also praise his generosity and compassion for young and unknown artists, in addition to his love for our city. His willingness to work with lesser-known artists to further their own careers is demonstrated by guest appearances on projects as well as speaking on music business panels and at student workshops. Toussaint also considers his work with others as his greatest achievement, “I’m in a position which inspires others and employs others in a chosen field.”

When speaking of New Orleans Artists Against Hunger and Homelessness, an allvolunteer nonprofit Toussaint founded with Aaron Neville in 1985, he says, “There’s no greater need when people need people, which is the driving force of my participation in NOAAHH.” NOAAHH raises funds by giving concerts and donates all proceeds to the less fortunate. In 2010 it celebrated its 25th anniversary gala; in ’13, it marked Toussaint’s 75th birthday with a celebration fundraising concert featuring an all-star lineup including Elvis Costello, Dr. John, Irma Thomas and Trombone Shorty in addition to Toussaint 48 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

New Orleans Artists Against Hunger and Homelessness, co-founder; Gulf Aid Benefit with Lenny Kravitz & Jimmy Buffett, sponsor; Tipitina’s Foundation, contributor; Friar’s Club, member; WWOZ Piano Night, sponsor; Faubourg St. John Fortier Fest, sponsor; Algiers Festival, sponsor; Children’s Fund, sponsor; Crime Stoppers, sponsor; YAYA, sponsor; Professor Longhair Foundation, sponsor; Vieux Carre Commission, sponsor; Make It Right, contributor; New Orleans Songwriters Festival, sponsor; Cutting Edge Music Business Conference, sponsor; New Orleans Musicians Clinic, sponsor; Jazz & Heritage Festival Foundation, featured performer

himself. To date, NOAAHH has given grants to over 50 charities serving direct needs in the New Orleans metropolitan area.

Raised in Gert Town, Toussaint was briefly displaced to New York by Katrina, where he performed at numerous benefits for hurricane relief. He has since returned to the city for which he has become a symbol, as music he wrote years ago continues to drift from radio speakers and from young musicians in the French Quarter.

Awards Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Laureate; New Orleans Council for Community and Justice, Weiss Award; Young Leadership Council, Role Model; Black Enterprise Magazine, Top 50 Most Powerful Executives in Corporate America; CityBusiness, Top 40 Under 40; Career Focus Magazine, Eagle Award; University of Notre Dame 1988 College Football National Champions

past and present organizations

rod west

R

od West casts a long shadow over the city where he was born and raised, as it has become increasingly difficult to live in New Orleans and not encounter something he’s been involved with, from providing power in your home to this year’s locally hosted Superbowl. An alumnus of Brother Martin High School, University of Notre Dame and Tulane University’s law and masters programs, it’s hard to say what West is more famous for, his handling of the reconstruction of the electric infrastructure postKatrina in 2005 or his victory as outside linebacker and tight end for Lou Holtz and the Fighting Irish’s 1988 National Championship football team and his subsequent presence in the sport since. His was also the voice that made the closing arguments to the National Football League owners on behalf of the city’s bid to host Superbowl XLVII in 2013.

West’s list of civic engagements is also impressive, ranging from the Ochsner Foundation board of directors to the Bring New Orleans Back Committee. He feels that his biggest commitment is to the New Orleans Recreation Development Foundation, as he currently serves as secretary and member of the board of directors. “We took a notion that youth recreation opportunities could dramatically impact the quality of life for all New Orleanians,” he explains. “We developed the idea to change the way New Orleans recreation was organized, operated and funded to align with best practices, and took the idea to the people of New Orleans, who voted 74 percent to change the city charter to create the NORD Commission and enable the NORD Foundation to bring the private sector back into the fold.” This particular initiative should come as no surprise to West’s admirers, as he has long demonstrated a commitment to the youth of New Orleans, especially their educational opportunities. “I want all of [New Orleans’] children to be educated as though each child’s preparation, regardless of socioeconomic status or public or private school, was treated as though the very existence of the city depended on that

University of Notre Dame, member of the board of trustees; Louisiana State University System, member of the board of supervisors and former chairman; National Football Foundation; Allstate Sugar Bowl Committee, member of the board of directors; New Orleans Recreation Development Foundation, secretary and member of the board of directors; First Bank and Trust/First Trust Corporation, member of the board of directors; Covenant House; New Orleans Super Bowl Host Committee, member; Louisiana Recovery Authority; Bring New Orleans Back Committee, member; Ochsner Foundation, member of the board of directors; Bureau of Governmental Research; New Orleans Business Council; GNO Inc; Idea Village; NCAA President’s Advisory Commission

child’s success in the classroom,” he expresses.

When asked what he would change about his hometown, he answers without hesitation that preoccupation with class and race in every facet of New Orleans life must end.

As a husband and father, West’s commitment to family cannot be denied as he considers his daughter Simone his greatest achievement to date. “[My wife] Madeline and I have raised a young woman of substance and consequence.

She never ceases to amaze us and make us proud to be her parents.” Further, West credits his wife with his success, “[To succeed] you first have to have a supportive family. I have a wife who shares my desire to make a difference. But we understand that there is no such thing as ‘free time.’ Every second of every day counts, and there’s a price you pay for everything.”

He continues, “Secondly, you have to pick and choose where you deploy your time, talent and treasure in a manner that makes a difference.

The same level of efficiency we pursue at work we must employ in our civic lives. Success is never on sale.” saintcharlesavenue.com | 49

Choosing to Chair What to know before you helm an event – from an expert

By Morgan Packard

From St. Elizabeth’s Guild’s “Activist Luncheon” to Audubon Institute’s “Zoo-To-Do,” Peggy Laborde has chaired them all – well, almost. So when researching all there is to know about what responsibilities, perks and surprises might be in store if you say, “Yes!” when asked to chair a philanthropic event, we asked question upon question – but CHERYL GERBER PHOTOGRAPH

Laborde preempted our email with one of her own, which illustrates her always-prepared style.

“I love this City,” Laborde says, and the capital letter she includes in her email only emphasizes her commitment, “there are so many worthwhile endeavors of which to be a part.” Beyond the aforementioned events, she has also chaired or co-chaired: Children’s

Hospital’s “Sugarplum Ball,” Jesuit High School’s “Celebration,” the “Red Cross Ball,” Longue Vue House and Garden’s “Sentimental Journeys,” Lambeth House’s “On Broadway,” the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation’s “Save Our Lake,” LSU Health and Sciences Center’s “Sunday at Emeril’s” and many more.

After all of these, she thought

she had retired from this kind of effort, but last year her husband was President of the Sugar Bowl and she planned two luncheons for the teams along with multiple team functions to showcase New Orleans, a past-presidents dinner and a New Year’s Eve gala. “I guess it was payback for all the times he helped me,” she says.

After living in Houston, Egypt saintcharlesavenue.com | 51

and London, Peggy and her husband, Jack Laborde, moved back to New Orleans. During their early years of marriage, Jack often traveled out of the country for work while Peggy was raising two small children. She says she had the time and energy to volunteer, that it was a “natural fit.” “I was fortunate that I had the support of my family,” she says. “My children learned at a young age how to sort zip codes for mailings.”

Chairing an event “will open up doors you never knew existed,” she says. For instance, it might make you face your fears. “When I was chairman of ‘Zoo-To-Do,’” she says, “it was the opening of the reptile exhibit. I have a terrible fear of snakes, yet while on stage introducing the entertainment I was asked to hold one – a very large one.

I can still remember the feeling of it wrapping around me. I definitely ‘took one for the team’ that night.”

Also, if you’re asked to chair an event and someone tells you

that doing so is no big deal?

“Don’t believe them!” she says.

“Volunteers are vital to our community – especially in a city like New Orleans. Embrace the things that are outside of your comfort zone. At the end of the day, the time and energy spent cannot begin to be matched by the appreciation of the group benefiting from the event.”

When asked to chair an event or be part of an event’s committee, you may be asked for a monetary contribution as well as that of your time. But don’t let a lack of funds keep you from supporting a cause that you care about. “I would never want anyone that isn’t financially capable to shy away from helping,” Laborde says.

“I am a believer that time can be as valuable as money.”

If you decide to participate, be ready for anything to pop up, for details to change quickly as plans move forward and to help in any way you can (see box). “Finding

52 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

your ‘Ah-ha!’ moment” can be the best part of planning, Laborde says. But once the event starts?

“Smile and enjoy your event and the feeling of accomplishment in seeing a year’s worth of planning finally becoming a reality.”

“The added bonus in all this is finding lasting friendships,” she imparts. “And my favorite thought

is that ‘Those who can, do. Those who can do more, volunteer!” If Peggy Laborde’s history of giving back to her community inspires you, and if you “can do more,” then find a nonprofit whose mission speaks to you and volunteer – you may find that doing so gives back to you even more than your efforts give to it. n

10 Chairing Tips from Peggy Laborde 1. Being organized is the key to a successful fundraiser.

2. Know people’s strengths and assign chairmanships accordingly, and committee members will easily follow.

3. When talking to potential corporate sponsors, plan ahead for “the ask” by being knowledgeable about your cause and accountable for the funds raised.

4. See the big picture while handling the day-to-day specifics.

5. Learn to delegate.

6. Remember that someone’s time can be as valuable as his or her money.

7. Always be prepared for plan “B” and the unknown speed bumps that will surely cross your path.

8. Be a good listener.

9. Have fun.

10. Remember to say thank you.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 53

bev entertaining

By BEV CHURCH

New Orleans Welcomes Newport 54 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

New Orleanians have had a long history with Newport, Rhode Island, starting in the 1930s when J. Edgar Monroe bought Rosecliff in Newport for $50,000. Jimmy and Minnie Coleman and Lynne and Hunter White have houses in Rhode Island and have made many friends there. Lynne and Hunter just had famed author and lecturer Bette Pardee and her friends from out of town for a visit, and of course had a special party in her honor featuring her book, Private Newport at Home and in the Garden.

Pardee was a contributing editor for Bon Appetit for 10 years, the host of the PBS series, “The Presidential Palate: Entertaining at the White House” and a frequent guest on Good Morning America, so Lynne decided that her friends had to meet Pardee. She planned a light brunch and served coffee and champagne so everyone could see Pardee’s book and listen to the plans for Pardee’s next book, Living Newport – Houses, People and Style, which will be available next September.

I asked Pardee why she decided to write these books about Newport.

She said that the catalyst was when she and her husband Jonathan were going to build a house in Newport, but there was nothing on the market.

Many books have been written about the large mansions in Newport that are open to the public, and approximately 4 million visitors go just to see them. What Pardee found interesting is that many of the private residences look the same as when they were built in the late 1800s. Some properties have been in the same families for generations – much like in New Orleans.

Pardee’s books step inside the iron gates and beyond the privet hedges of privately owned mansions to reveal a diverse collection of architectural jewels and spectacular gardens.

Here we’ve included a photo of Bette Pardee and one of the Christmas photos in her latest book, as well as photos from her party at Lynne and Hunter White’s. n

Audrey Goforth photographs

saintcharlesavenue.com | 55

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saintcharlesavenue.com | 59

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Yvonne LaFleur 504/866-9666 Onzieme’s ‘Entrepreneur’ portfolio bag, perfectly suited for a man or woman.

60 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

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Cristy Cali 504/377-9575 The ‘Louis Armstrong Lyrics Cuff’ features ‘I Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans’ engraved on the inside, and many city icons grace the design

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62 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

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WITH THIS RING

By Mallory Lindsly

Barnard-Favrot Elizabeth “Betsy” Barnard and Thomas Blackburn Favrot III were introduced through Betsy’s friend who volunteered with Thomas at the Houston rodeo. Thomas asked Betsy to dance at Gallant Knight Bar, which featured a jazz band every Thursday. Betsy didn’t realize that Thomas would soon become her Gallant Knight.

It didn’t take long for Betsy and Thomas to become best friends and fall in love.

Thomas knew that he wanted to marry his one true love and asked for Betsy’s father’s blessing. Thomas even knew the perfect location to pop the question.

After attending a wedding in Fort Worth, Texas in early September 2012, Betsy and Thomas headed to Betsy’s family’s ranch for an afternoon dove hunt. While at the ranch, Betsy shot her first dove, opened her shotgun and flung her empties at Thomas. While digging in her shell box to grab more shells, Thomas quietly got down on one knee. To Betsy’s sweet surprise, a diamond ring lay propped in the shells. Betsy let out a laugh and a big hug, which Thomas took as a “Yes.” It was the perfect day of diamonds and doves.

Betsy and Thomas honeymooned in Africa for a 12-day safari and currently live in Houston, Texas, where Thomas is a petroleum engineer at Occidental and Betsy is a pediatric occupational therapist at Reach Therapy Center. n

66 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Bride: Elizabeth “Betsy” Barnard Groom: Thomas Blackburn Favrot III Bride’s Parents: Laura Kramer Barnard and Charles Murray Barnard Groom’s Parents: Janet Sevier Favrot and Thomas Blackburn Favrot Jr. Date of Wedding: July 20, 2013 Ceremony and Reception Location: Rock House Ranch, Gunnison, Colo.

Coordinator: Two Clever Chicks, Wichita Falls, Texas Celebrant: Dr. Isaac Butterworth Ceremony Music: Cloud 9, Denver, Colo.

Wedding Gown: Liancarlo Couture ivory Alençon lace gown, Stanley Korshak, Dallas, Texas Maids of Honor: Megan Petty Klatt and Martha Clare Winfrey Matron of Honor: Kara Jane Aboussie Bridesmaids: Elizabeth Carter Barnard, Jennifer Favrot Smith, Laura Elizabeth Barnard, Lindsey Brooke Lunn, Whitney Diane Clements, Katherine Emory McCann, Kelley Ford Eubanks and Megan Ann Shea Honor Attendants: Audrey Anna Barnard and Mattie Miller Bookhout Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Amsale blush crinkle silk chiffon, Stanley Korshak, Dallas, Texas Flower Girls: Madeline Grace Barnard and Leighton Miles Smith Ring Bearers: Benjamin Carter Barnard and John Kramer Barnard Groom’s Attire: Neiman Marcus suit with Hermès Bowtie Best Man: James Totty Kostmayer Groomsmen: John Kramer Barnard, Mark Edward Biegler, Robert Russell Harris Junior, Peterson Osborne Harter, Walker Burnside Head, Robert Bowen Hendrix, Austin Sterling Hill, George Neal McDonald, Bailey Reeves McGuire and Philip Douglas Smith Ushers: Laurence Brittin Eustis, Dane Daniel Halpern, Jeffrey Ward Howard, Scott Andrew Saporito and Edwin Richard Rodriguez III Groomsmen’s and Ushers’ Attire: Kenneth Cole suits Rings: Custom Florist: Two Clever Chicks, Wichita Falls, Texas Invitation: Polka Dot Penguin, Wichita Falls, Texas Caterer: Maxwell’s Steakhouse, Crested Butte, Colo.

Wedding and Groom’s Cakes: Gateau Fab Bakery, Crested Butte, Colo.

Photographer: David Savinski of Capture Forever Videographer: Angela Zmiejko of Capture Forever Hair and Makeup: A Cut Above, Crested Butte, Colo.

Music: Tunisia, Denver, Colo.

Photos: David Savinski of Capture Forever saintcharlesavenue.com | 67

YOUNG BLOODS

By Lindsay Mack

Anne Rolfes Founder, Louisiana Bucket Brigade Can one organization educate New Orleans citizens about environmental health – in a positive, helpful way? Anne Rolfes, founder of the LA Bucket Brigade, thinks so. She is dedicated to helping New Orleanians educate themselves about issues affecting the local environment – and she strives to do so in a friendly, inviting way, eschewing the stereotype of the “rabid activist.”

Indeed, the bustling LA Bucket Brigade office on Canal Street is filled with welcoming people who are dedicated to helping locals gain a better understanding of environmental health.

A Lafayette native, Anne Rolfes discovered a passion for helping others while serving the Peace

Corps in Nigeria. Although she loved working abroad, Rolfes returned home to Louisiana with the goal of raising awareness about issues that affect the state’s environment. She founded the Louisiana Bucket Brigade in 2000.

The EPA-approved “bucket” is a simple, community friendly tool that people who live next to industry – fenceline neighbors – can use to take air samples. This data can then be used to document pollution levels in neighborhoods, providing citizens with important information about their local air quality. The bucket helps ordinary citizens get involved in conservation efforts.

Rolfes has a positive vision for Louisiana’s environmental – and economic – future. She encourages

68 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

residents to think differently about Louisiana’s business opportunities. Along these lines, she notes that environmental initiatives, such as the Bucket Brigade, are jobcreators that hire local talent and manufacture specialized equipment.

Although change may occur slowly in the short term, Rolfes says that looking to the future, say the next 100 years, Louisiana could move its economic base toward more sustainable, less polluting, industries.

The growth of environmental awareness in New Orleans

continues to inspire Rolfes. She notes that when she discusses environmental issues in Louisiana, people usually agree that things are out of balance, but many don’t know where to begin. She encourages every New Orleanian to “Educate yourself and act!”

Of course, like everything else, environmental awareness gets its own unique spin in New Orleans.

Rolfes says that she recently attended a community event organized to address climate change – in the form of a more than 200-person second-line. n

The LA Bucket Brigade welcomes donations and local funders. Furthermore, volunteers of all abilities are needed for data entry, video editing and human resources work. Visit LABucketBrigade.org to learn more. cheryl gerber photograph

student activist

By Mallory Lindsly

Emily MacLaren Ursuline Academy

70 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

“Throughout my volunteering experience, I’ve continuously answered Ursuline’s foundress’, St. Angela’s, call to Serviam: I will serve,” says Emily Fiona MacLaren, a senior at Ursuline Academy who began volunteering at the age of 12.

MacLaren has been a competitive swimmer for 10 years and is a member of Ursuline’s swim team and Nu Wave, a local swim team. Her love of swimming evolved when she began volunteering with Jojo’s Hope, an organization that provides free swim lessons to mentally handicapped children.

Through this organization MacLaren then discovered Camp Friendship, a weeklong camp that gives children who have Spina Bifida the chance to attend summer camp. Over the past five summers she has formed a friendship with the campers, and she’s proud of her participation

with the program because the children have changed her life, both as a role model and as a friend.

Last year she expanded her service outside of Louisiana with Ursuline’s Beyond Our Borders immersion trip program, which allowed her to volunteer in Guyana, South America. She learned to embrace a different culture and appreciate the little things in her life.

“The immersion program to Guyana changed my life,” she says, “and the memories I experienced will stay with me forever.”

Aaron Walters, a math teacher at Ursuline, inspired MacLaren to become an activist with his enlightening stories about volunteer work in Tanzania with the Peace Corps. Walters has been a role model for her on how to live a life of service and faith while also being an activist within the community.

This summer, MacLaren plans to continue her call to Serviam by going on a mission trip to Ghana, Africa, to help improve education and health conditions within a small village. She plans on attending Tulane University for her freshman year and wants to double major in Public Health and Spanish. After college, she hopes to devote two years volunteering in the Peace Corps before attending medical school. n

cheryl gerber photograph

SHOP TALK

By Mirella Cameran

Yvonne La Fleur Owner and designer, Yvonne La Fleur

How did you get your start in the business? My French-Canadian

aunts taught me everything I know. By 11 years old I could cut a pattern and sew my own designs.

When did you open your first store?

In the late 1960s; I had spent time in London, Paris and San Francisco, and I had worked in every major store in New Orleans.

Your brand has many loyal customers, how do you explain that? Our store is a step back

in time and a step forward in fashion, offering the finest styles in everything a woman needs in clothing and hats.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I never read fashion magazines; if I did, I would be behind the trends instead of in front of them. However, I read the fashion trade daily.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to work in the fashion industry? Learn about

textiles – they are the language of fashion – and read every book you can.

How do you create the Yvonne La Fleur Collection? My daughter

Stella and I go to New York four times a year for 48 hours.

What are you most excited about in the store? Offering a unique

approach to fashion in the “galleries of Yvonne La Fleur.”

Also, our bridal department and my signature fragrance, which is popular around the world. n

Yvonne La Fleur 8131 Hampson St., New Orleans, 866-9666, YvonneLaFleur.com

72 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

SHOP TALK

By Mirella Cameran

Cristy Cali Owner/Designer Cristy Cali Jewelry

When did you start designing? I started designing for my mom’s shop, Sterling Silvia, when I was 16.

How have your designs changed? My

first designs were more literal – streetcars and pelicans – now they’re more contemporary. They are wearable and fashionable but still reflect my home state.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Everywhere: history books, architecture, everyday things. My favorite? Any local museum.

What’s it like being an entrepreneur in NOLA? Amazing. It seems like

almost everyone is one, one way or another. It’s a very supportive environment.

What’s your favorite piece that you’ve ever designed? That’s tough. It’s a

tie between my Sugar Skull and my Magnolia. I also love my Collage Cuff that Sen. Mary Landrieu often wears.

Where is your jewelry made? The production takes place in Thailand.

Everything else takes place in my home office.

What do you think makes it special?

I’m local and the money stays here. I’m active in the community.

I donate a lot of jewelry and sales from certain pieces to local organizations. Also, everyone has a favorite local artist.

Why do you think people like gifts from New Orleans? New Orleanians

are a different breed of people. I think after Katrina happened we realized how blessed we are and we became 10 times more proud than we were before.

Is your jewelry affordable? Yes, my jewelry starts at $10, with the majority averaging around $75 or less.

What is your most popular piece? My

Sideways Fleur de Lis necklace and some custom pieces I made for Aerosmith last year. n

Cristy Cali Jewelry CristysCollection.myshopify.com

cheryl gerber photographs

saintcharlesavenue.com | 73

snapshots

by Lexi Wangler

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1. Celebrity bartender Cooper Manning and Scott Duggins relax at the bar during Caliche Rum’s fundraising cocktail reception on August 15 at Dominique’s Restaurant to benefit the Chef Quan Tran Foundation. 2. Courtney and Richard Montgomery with Michele and John Randle at Caliche Rum’s fundraising event. Local partners John Randle and Richard Montgomery donated the ultra-premium white rum created by Rande Gerber and Roberto Serrallés. 3. Sheraton Hotel New Orleans General Manager Jim Cook, W Hotel French Quarter General Manager James Wroblewski and W Hotel French Quarter Director of Rooms Dennis McKibban at the W Hotel French Quarter “WaterWalk” fundraiser on September 12. W Hotels partner with charity:water, a leading nonprofit that provides clean, safe drinking water for underdeveloped countries.

4. Tommy Aucoin Jr., Tommy Aucoin Sr., New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton and Ryan Aucoin at Coach Payton’s Play It Forward benefit at local Aucoin Heart’s Metairie road store on September 21. Coach Payton and Aucoin Hart raffled off a lady’s Rolex watch valued at over $18,000 for Coach Payton’s Play It Forward Foundation.

5. Tommy Aucoin Jr. and Tommy Aucoin Sr. alongside Coach Payton pulling the winning raffle ticket at his benefit at Aucoin Hart on Metairie Road. Over $65,000 was raised at the event for Payton’s Play It Forward Foundation. To date, the Aucoin Hart Foundation has donated almost $250,000 to Play It Forward. 6. Iggie Perrin, “Fore!Recovery Golf Tournament” chair and Else Pederson, CEO of Bridge House/Grace House at September 27 “Fore!Recovery Golf Tournament” at English Turn Golf & Country Club.

Proceeds from the sold-out tournament went to fund the alcohol and drug addiction recovery program of Bridge House/Grace House.

74 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

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7. Iggie Perrin and Bill Mimeles, a “Fore!Recovery Golf Tournament” committee member whose team won second place. The tournament featured a luncheon and a chance to win either $1 million or a new car from Banner Chevrolet by acing one of two select holes. 8. Cathy Parker, Jamie Jochum and Gabriela Shearer pose at the September 27 “Stormin’ the Sazerac” at the Roosevelt Hotel, celebrating the 64th anniversary of women demanding admission to the world-famous previously men’s-only Sazerac Bar. 9. Nancy Duvigneaud, Nicole Lemm and Donielle Arata at “Stormin the Sazerac.” Also marking the bar’s 75th year, the ladies enjoyed a three-course meal, jazz band, fashion show, 1940s-style makeovers, second-line and best ’40s fashion contest. 10. Anna Beth Goodman and Allison Kendrick co-chaired the “New Orleans Film Society Gala” on September 28 at the Patrick F. Taylor Library at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Dinner was provided by chef Michael Sichel of Galatoire’s and Crystal Head Vodka offered both a full bar and a specialty cocktail for the occasion. 11. New Orleans Film Society Executive Director Jolene Pinder with Jason Curole at the “New Orleans Film Society Gala.” The evening’s décor featured chic private banquettes by CORT furniture and lighting by the Solomon Group. 12. New Orleans Film Society President Steve Armbruster and Tamarin Hennebury on the red carpet at the “New Orleans Film Society Gala.” Guests enjoyed music by DJ and jazz trumpeter Brice Miller and a live auction led by New Orleans Film Society executive board member Adam Marcus.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 75

performing arts

By Lauren LaBorde

Performance Calendar DECEMBER Through Dec. 15 A Tuna Christmas This installment in a series of comedic plays taking place in the fictional small town of Tuna, Texas, follows the town’s Christmas festivities, which include a competitive lawn display contest and an ill-fated production of A Christmas Carol. Teatro Wego!

Theatre, 177 Sala Ave., Westwego, 885-2000, JPAS.org

5 Yuletide Celebration Michael Hall conducts the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra at the concert featuring local school choirs, scenes from The Nutcracker and singalongs. Louisiana Philharmonic

Theater, 3540 Toulouse St., 488-1460, MidCityTheatre.com

12 Baroque Christmas The LPO performs Bach’s “Suite No. 2 for Orchestra” and “Brandenburg Concerto No. 2” and selections from Handel’s “Messiah.” Louisiana

Philharmonic Orchestra, First Baptist Church, 25920 Canal Blvd., 523-6530; LPOMusic.com 12-22 Lightwire: A Very Electric Christmas The group that appeared on “America’s Got Talent” presents their glow-in-the-dark holiday show that uses electroluminescent wire. Joy Theater, 1200 Canal

Orchestra, Pontchartrain Center, 4545 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 523-6530, LPOMusic.com

St., 528-9569, TheJoyTheater.com

6-22 Annie

17-22 Sister Act

A precocious orphan looking for her parents amid the Great Depression charms a stoic billionaire. Rivertown Theaters

Based on the 1992 film, a nightclub performer hiding in a convent after witnessing a crime reinvigorates the nuns.

6-22 Black Nativity

26 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner, 461-9475, RivertownTheaters.com

Langston Hughes’ retelling of the nativity includes Gospelstyle carols. Anthony Bean

Community Theater, 1333 South Carrollton Ave., 862-7529, AnthonyBeanTheater.com

6-22 A Very Merry Unauthorized Children’s Scientology Pageant The NOLA Project tells the story of the “religion” in the form of a 76 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

children’s nativity play. Mid-City

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 523-6530, LPOMusic.com

The 40-dancer company presents the Tchaikovsky ballet.

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St., 523-6530, LPOMusic.com 27-Jan. 12 The Golden Girls Ricky Graham, Varla Jean Merman, Brian Peterson and Jack Long perform their version of the classic sitcom. Mid-City Theater,

3540 Toulouse St., 488-1460, MidCityTheatre.com n

Premier Properties

saintcharlesavenue.com | 77

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.

78 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

Premier

Properties ELEANOR FARNSWORTH Top Residential Producer

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

www.EleanorFarnsworth.com 5631 St. Charles Avenue.....SOLD...............$6,185,000 4717 St Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$6,000,000 16 Audubon Place .............. SOLD ..............$4,500,000 8 La Salle Place ...............................................$3,995,000 521 Gov. Nicholls................SOLD...............$3,750,000 18 Rosa Park ...................................................$2,590,000 1776 State Street ..................SOLD...............$2,300,000 3 Poydras Street #9E/F ........SOLD...............$2,300,000 841 Barracks Street ........................................$2,250,000 906 S. New Hampshire Avenue......SOLD...............$2,199,000 2600 Gay lynn Drive ......................................$1,950,000 1427 Eighth Street .........................................$1,850,000 1328 Felicity Street .........................................$1,700,000 1538 Fourth Street ..............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1518 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,750,000 1415 Cadiz Street ...............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1732-34 Palmer Avenue.................................$1,650,000 2708 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,625,000 1233 Second Street..............SOLD...............$1,600,000 576 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,595,000 4613 St. Charles Avenue.....SOLD...............$1,495,000 2707 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,490,000 2507 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,490,000 6433 Paris Avenue ..........................................$1,488,000 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 1413 Philip Street ................SOLD...............$1,370,000 71607 Riverside Drive ...................................$1,350,000 447 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 17 Chateau Palmer .........................................$1,085,000 1701 Valence Street .............SOLD...............$1,075,000 1919 State Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 Exposition Blvd .........SOLD...............$1,045,000 3225 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,000,000 1844 State Street ..................SOLD.................. $995,000 1022 Webster Street ............SOLD.................. $995,000 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 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 5951 Tchoupitoulas........................................... $815,000 500 Walnut Street ................SOLD.................. $825,000 5933 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $799,000 1443 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD.................. $789,000 405 Exposition Blvd ...........SOLD.................. $755,000 1513 Hesiod Street ............................................ $499,000 7337 W. Roadway Street ......3 Slips.................. $230,000 1205 St. Charles Avenue Unit #1415 ............. $194,000 6257 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge ................$2,750,000 595 Sandy Hook Dr. MS. ..............................$1,100,000

Belle Alliance Plantation .... $3,785,000 838 Lowerline...................... $2,599,000 10 Swan ..................... SOLD $1,300,000 1440 Camp St.......................$1,295,000 500 Audubon ........... SOLD ...$998,000 704 Webster St .......................$995,000 22 Farnham ............... SOLD ...$950,000 5232 Chestnut ........................$920,000 1566 Calhoun ........... SOLD ...$875,000 5111 Pitt ..................... SOLD ... $749,000 1240 Eighth ............... SOLD ...$725,000 328 Julia..................... SOLD ...$595,000 6313 Laurel ............... SOLD ...$568,000 6308 Camp ............... SOLD ...$549,000 6219 Magazine St.... SOLD ...$530,000 4919 Dryades ........... SOLD ....$517,000 924 Bellecastle ......... SOLD ...$485,000 234 Audubon St. ...... SOLD ...$479,000 8233 Freret St .......... SOLD ...$445,000 5120 Chestnut .......... SOLD ...$439,000 700 S. Peters ............. SOLD ...$428,000 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 SOLD ...$368,000 4701 Iberville ............ SOLD ...$335,000 7229-31 Pitt ............. SOLD ...$299,000 3201 St Charles #111 ...........$239,000 4323 Danneel ......................... $189,900

saintcharlesavenue.com | 79

new orleans nostalgia

By Seale Paterson

Grocery Matters The history of Solari’s For over 100 years, Solari’s was one of the primary food destinations in New Orleans for local shoppers and tourists alike.

Operated from 1864 until the 1920s by the Solari family, the shop was known for its exotic imported offerings sold alongside local standards.

It was sold in 1921 but retained its name and its clientele; newspaper advertisements with the tagline “Everybody Shops at Solari’s” were indeed honest advertising, and the store boasted six telephone lines to keep up with its orders for home delivery and shipping.

In 1926 Solari’s underwent a

massive remodeling costing over $60,000. A three-day opening party in December ’27 featured twice-daily performances by The Owls Orchestra welcoming throngs of people. The new store featured modern equipment and fixtures, including a marble luncheon counter that would serve generations of shoppers and downtown business people, as well as a new baking department and delicatessen that served ready-to-eat meals.

Solari’s continued to be a staple of both gourmands and housewives for many years. A 1950 Gourmet magazine article

80 | St. Charles Avenue December 2013

called it “one of America’s finest grocery stores.”

In 1961, new buyers purchased the building and the business with plans to demolish the building and rebuild a six-story parking garage, with a smaller Solari’s space occupying the ground level. While building the new structure, Solari’s operated out of a temporary space at 332 Dryades St., as well as in a satellite store in the venerable

department store Maison Blanche.

Solari’s reopened in their Royal Street location in October 1962.

Unfortunately, even with the new special features – a cheese cave featuring 75 varieties of international cheese and a 1,600-bottle wine cellar – revenues didn’t keep up with expenses. New owners purchased the building in ’65 and quietly closed Solari’s within the year. n

A June 1961 photograph of Royal Street looking toward Canal Street. Solari’s opened as a small grocery in 1864 on the corner of St. Louis and Royal streets, moved to 201 Royal St., pictured here, on the corner of Iberville Street where it remained until it closed in the late ’60s. The space has been occupied by Mr. B’s restaurant since ’79. Image courtesy of the New Orleans Public Library