St. Charles Avenue October 2015

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(Standing) YAYA CEO Gene Menaray, YAYA Artist Ian Jackson, Jim Landis of Major Sponsor Landis Construction and (seated) Event Chairs Glenny Beahm and Board Member Cartier Perrilliat.

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on the cover

Event Chair Glenny Beahm and Board Member Carter Perrilliat, YAYA CEO Gene Menaray, YAYA Artist Ian Jackson and Jim Landis of Major Sponsor Landis Construction invite you to celebrate “Just Say YAYA” (Young Aspirations/Young Artists) on November 13,

6:30-11 p.m., at their new Arts Center at 3322 LaSalle St. This year they celebrate the July opening of the new center, which will serve as an artistic, educational and entrepreneurial facility located in Central City. New programs in their beautiful facility will include a hot glass studio, an art market, retail gallery, creative aging workshops, an eco-arts garden and even an arts and technology studio.

“Just Say YAYA” will feature a live art auction with donated works from local and national artists; fare will be provided by Dickie Brennan’s; and the Mississippi Rail Company will complete the evening with live music.

Tickets start at $50, with proceeds going to benefit YAYA, whose mission is to empower young people to be successful adults by fostering and supporting the individual ambitions of New Orleans youth.

The patron reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and general admission opens at 8 p.m.

For more information and to purchase tickets, call 529-3306 or visit YAYAInc.com and click on “Support.” n

photography by Jeffery Johnston

saintcharlesavenue.com | 1

contents

features 24 An All-American Anniversary The National World War II Museum celebrated

15 years.

26 Advancing the Arts A night of food and entertainment to support

the mission of The NOCCA Institute.

28 Big Ideas for Little People

March of Dimes hosted its annual “Spotlight on Success” to campaign for babies’ health.

30 Matters of the Heart

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The American Heart Association hosted a grand gala to fundraise for cardiovascular wellness.

32 Curtain Call

The “Opening Night Party” raised awareness for the Shakespeare Festival at Tulane University.

34 Mint to Read

The Faulkner Society partnered with One Book One New Orleans to campaign for literacy and community.

36 Collaborating for Community

“Rhythm & Soul” honored Marjorie Bissinger and Nancy Bissinger Timm.

38 Winging in Public

28

In its 22nd year, the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience fought hunger and supported culinary education.

40 Red is the New Black

Preservation Resource Center hosted a benefit for African-American heritage programs and Orleans Parish education.

42 Dressing the Part

Annual “Suits & Salads” luncheon raised funds to lift Dress for Success to new heights

45 Cancer Awareness Spotlight Local emerging and established technologies

and treatments

53 Enhancing Your Home Advice for new antique collectors

51 2 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

contents in every issue 10 Editors’ Note 12 Making a Difference A Future of Excellence: The PLEASE Foundation inspires

14 Kids Play What’s Up: Climbing the walls at New Orleans

Boulder Lounge

16 Southern Glow Masks and Lashes: Beauty for the season and beyond

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18 What’s Hot Art

20 On the Menu

Perfectly Peared: Pastry chef Breanne Kostyk shares Ox Lot 9’s Poached Pear and Goat Cheese Tarts With Figs and Red Wine Caramel.

22 The Dish

A Case of Mistaken Identity: When the worst table is actually the best

70 Entertaining With Bev

Easy Entertaining: Out or at home, fall into fall

72 With This Ring

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Brennan – McLeod

74 Young Bloods

EcoUrban: Travis Cleaver, Landscape Architect & Co-Owner and Demetria Christo, Biologist & Co-Owner

75 Student Activist

Taylor Jean Sparacello – Archbishop Chapelle High School

76 Shop Talk

Hope Goldman Meyer: Owner & Jeweler, Hope Goldman Meyer Fine Jewelry

77 Shop Talk

Stephen E. Metzinger M.D., F.A.C.S.: Owner and Lead Physician, Aesthetic Surgical Associates

78 Snapshots 85 OnStage Performance Calendar

68 4 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

88 Nostalgia The Magnificence of Morgus: The legend that will not fade

saintcharlesavenue.com | 5

New Orleans’ definitive social magazine october 2015 / Volume 20 / Issue 5

Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Sarah George contributing editor Mirella Cameran Beauty Columnist Lorin Gaudin Society Columnist Marilee Hovet Food & Dining Columnist Jyl Benson Associate Editor Melanie Warner Spencer web Editor Kelly Massicot Event Photo Coordinator Jeff Strout interns Lani Griffiths advertising vice president of sales Colleen Monaghan sales manager Brittany Brady (504) 830-7248, Brittany@MyNewOrleans.com

Account Executive Erin Duhe (504) 830-7226, Erin@MyNewOrleans.com

Production/Web Manager Staci McCarty Production DesignerS Ali Sullivan, Monique Di Pietro, Claire Geary traffic coordinator Jessica DeBold Administration Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President/Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde vice president of sales Colleen Monaghan DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS Cheryl Lemoine Distribution Manager John Holzer Subscriptions Sara Kelemencky (504) 830-7231 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Denise Dean

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, © 2015 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for photos or artwork and assumes that all releases have been cleared upon submission to the magazine. St. Charles Avenue is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, La. 70005, (504) 828-1380. Subscription rate: one year $17.95, two year $31, three year $43 — foreign rates vary call for pricing. It is the policy of this magazine to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

6 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

Meet our sales team Colleen Monaghan Vice President of Sales With over 30 years in the publishing and non-profit sectors, Colleen Monaghan is an accomplished sales strategist and solutionoriented Vice President of Sales at Renaissance Publishing. She thrives in challenging, fast-paced environments where her performance directly impacts the bottom line. As a seventh generation New Orleanian, Colleen loves her hometown with a passion.

She enjoys volunteering in the nonprofit sector because it allows her to strategize about new events that bring people together in a fun environment while also raising money. Colleen loves collecting art, traveling the world and living life to its fullest, while wearing fabulous hats and elaborate costumes while partaking in the elixir of life: Vino, Dahling! You can reach Colleen by calling 830-7215 or emailing Colleen@myneworleans.com.

Brittany Brady Sales Manager

Brittany Brady was born in the deep South of Mississippi and has led a nomadic lifestyle ever since. After graduating from Louisiana State University with a degree in Fashion Merchandising and a minor in Business Administration, she migrated to New Orleans and is currently residing in the Warehouse District. In addition to being a part of the St. Charles Avenue team, she enjoys being involved in the city’s music scene, craft cocktails, being an eccentric “foodcentric,” having more knowledge of the NBA than the average male and learning from people of all walks of life. You can reach Brittany by calling 830-7248 or emailing Brittany@myneworleans.com.

Erin Duhe Account Executive

Born and raised in the heart of New Orleans, Erin Duhe embraces all of the qualities that make this city special. She is an active member of the New Orleans social scene and a professional at wining and dining. After graduating from St. Mary’s Dominican High School, she followed her educational path to Louisiana State University and earned a degree in Business. She can be found at almost all festivals and loves reading a good non-fiction book, and aspires to become a master at Pilates – to offset finding the best restaurants. You can reach Erin by calling 830-7226 or at Erin@myneworleans.com.

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Editors’ Note

Art for All Young Aspirations/Young Artists (YAYA) is in a new home in a new building, and they’re gearing up for their first “Just Say YAYA” fundraiser at the new Arts Center on November 13! Thanks to our cover models: Chair of “Just Say YAYA” Glenny Beahm, CEO of YAYA Gene Meneray, Board Member Carter Perrilliat, chairman last year, Jim Landis, Major Donor and builder of the new Arts Center and YAYA Artist Ian Jackson. They promise a night filled with art, music

by Mississippi Rail Company,

incredible hors d’oeuvres by Dickie Brennan and both live and silent art auctions with items donated by local and national artists!

Tickets are $50 for the regular party, 8-11 p.m.; $150 a person for the Patron Party, 6:30 p.m. until the gala, and then extended hours until 11 p.m.; and Junior Patron are $100 a ticket. The new YAYA Arts Center is at 3322 LaSalle St., right near Louisiana Avenue across from Harmony Oaks. This is one event not to miss; call 529-3306 for tickets and more information today!

Kay Kerrigan, Baty Landis and Bev have been raising money for the new building over the past year, and we’re so grateful to all of you who have donated to YAYA so that we can further its mission of empowering creative young people to become successful young adults.

We are reaching hundreds of young people at 11 charter schools in the Central City area and young people all over the city. We can offer them structure, art lessons and a safe place to be after school and on the weekends. Out of our $1.5 million campaign, we only have $300,000 to go – so support this amazing organization!

On the subject of art, we have lots of related features this month that you’ll love! We have a section on antiques that begins with how to start a collection and explains the best pieces to keep and tips and tricks to enhance your collection. Our What’s Hot this month is also featuring art, with fun pieces to collect to liven up boring walls.

Our friend Naydja Bynum told us about the free Tremé Festival that’s coming up on Saturday, October 3. All proceeds will go

to repair St. Augustine Catholic Church – an important historic site! The festival will feature food, crafts, music by John Boutte, Kermit Ruffins, James Andrews and their bands and more. It starts at 11 a.m. and goes until 8 p.m., and will be on the streets bordering the church.

On a sad note, it seems that every time a conversation begins, someone else we know has been diagnosed with cancer. The bright spot is that we have a feature spotlighting emerging cancer technologies that are helping in the fight to eradicate and cure certain cancers. Be sure to read this feature to become aware of new strategies.

Bev’s column features entertaining both at home in the garden and at one of her favorite neighborhood restaurants, Frankie and Johnny’s. Thanks to owner Dave McCelvey, who is doing a great job of keeping the flavor of an historic neighborhood landmark.

Have a great fall and let’s hope that cooler weather will remain!

Bev & Morgan

Irma Thomas and Allen Toussaint have joined forces to raise funds for St. Jude for the Wednesday, October 21 fundraiser “Allen and Irma Sing the Hits.”

The event will take place at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters in City Party and will begin with a Patron Party, 6-7 p.m., featuring the music of Robin Barnes, followed by the cocktail buffet and concert where, as advertised, Thomas and Toussaint will sing a selection of their most beloved hits.

St. Jude’s mission is to provide food for the homeless and food-insecure; to house and feed working homeless women; to provide adult education and counseling; to foster a deep sense of self-worth and dignity; and to house volunteers helping to rebuild the city.

Tickets start at $50. For more information and to purchase your ticket, call 533-5790 or email AllenAndIrmaSingTheHits@gmail.com.

10 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

events OCTOBER 3 “Preservation Hall Ball,” 272-0865 3 “Gleason Gras – Race & Festival,” benefiting Team Gleason and What You Give Will Grow, 934-1037, TeamGleason.org 3 “Grand Golden Gramble,” benefiting Longue Vue House and Gardens,” 2934726

17 “Masquerade: Moulin Rouge,” benefiting the Junior Committee of the New Orleans Opera Association, 899-1945 18 “Purses & Pearls,” benefiting New Orleans Chapter of the American Cancer Society, 606-9669 20 “Power of 10,” benefiting The Posse Foundation, Inc., 208-5595

5 “Galatoire’s Goes Pink,” benefiting Breastoration, 2932618

20 “LPO Encore Shop Fundraiser,” benefiting Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, 931-9456

8 “Faces of New Orleans,” benefiting Trinity Counseling and Training Center, 670-2537

22 “The Autumn Affair,” benefiting Friends of Jefferson the Beautiful, 833-8733

9 “City Stars Soiree,” benefiting Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans, 5698657

22 “Anything Goes On Broadway,” benefiting Lambeth House Foundation, 872-9720

10 “Notre Dame Seminary Gala,” 866-7426

23 “Cancer Crusaders Celebration of Life Luncheon,” 301-4321

10 “FORESTival 2015,” benefiting A Studio In The Woods, 392-4460 11 “Feast With the Stars,” benefiting Parkway Partners, 620-2224 14-22 “New Orleans Film Festival,” benefiting the New Orleans Film Society, 309-6633 15 “2015 Saks Fifth Avenue Key to the Cure,” 293-2627 16 “Magic in the Moonlight,” benefiting Botanical Garden Foundation, 483-9386 16 “Pasta & Puccini 2015,” benefiting Jefferson Performing Arts Society, 8852000 16 “DLS Golf Tournament,” benefiting De La Salle High School, 228-3001 16 “Great Futures Gala,” benefiting Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Louisiana, 566-0707

23 “Blue Rose Ball,” benefiting St. Michael Special School, 524-7285 24 “Strike for STEM,” benefiting Core Element, 2743611 24 “Susan G. Komen New Orleans Race for the Cure,” 455-7310 24 “O What a Night! Gala,” benefiting Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 539-9616 25 “Fête du Jardin,” benefiting Louisiana Landmarks Society, 482-0312 26 “Taste of New Orleans Fundraiser,” benefiting The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation, 366-8063 28 “Cocktails for KID smART,” 940-1994 31 “Poydras Home 21st Annual Art Show,” 897-0535

17 “Rockin’ with the NOLA Stars VI,” benefiting Bridge House/Grace House, 821-7134

saintcharlesavenue.com | 11

making a difference

By marilee hovet

many months after the storm.

A native New Orleanian with a background in school psychology and a passion for helping children, Endom somehow managed to find motivation in post-Katrina life; in a feat that required perseverance, strength and a lot of hard work, she created a foundation that has helped change the lives of hundreds of children.

A Future of Excellence The PLEASE Foundation inspires Amid the flurry of attention that befell New Orleans on the 10th anniversary of Katrina, a distinct motif wove its way through the media’s coverage of our city. Without exception, every article I read extolled the 12 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

unsinkable spirit of the people of New Orleans. To find the personification of that spirit, one needs to look no further than Yvette Endom and the children of the PLEASE Foundation. Like so many of us, Endom was displaced for

One Child At a Time In a nod to the proverb of teaching a man to fish and thereby feeding him for a lifetime, PLEASE (an acronym for People Leading Educational and Spiritual Excellence) provides inner-city children with educational scholarships to some of our city’s finest Catholic schools. The particular brilliance of PLEASE is that it doesn’t end with the scholarship money; it forms a meaningful partnership with each student and his or her parents, so that together they can support that child in achieving personal and educational success. The results are resoundingly positive.

By the Numbers The mission of PLEASE is to “inspire at-risk children to a future of excellence through education, spiritual and social resources.”

Since its founding in 2007, PLEASE has awarded scholarships to 300 children in the amount of $700,000.

A full 100 percent of the students in the program have been accepted to local Catholic high schools, and

many of those students emerge as classroom leaders. At present there are 41 children in the program, and Endom has a one-on-one relationship with each and every one of them. Provided that a student maintains a 2.5 GPA, he or she stays with PLEASE until high school graduation – a proud day on which Endom sheds tears of joy right along with the graduates’ family members.

As Teddy Roosevelt said ...

I recently asked Endom if, in her years with PLEASE, there had been any especially unforgettable moments. Her answer, interestingly, wasn’t about a student. The moment she will never forget is the time a parent looked at her and said: “I can’t believe there’s someone else who believes in my daughter as much as I do.” When Endom told me that story I immediately thought of my favorite Teddy Roosevelt quote: “Believe you can and you are halfway there.” For a young child, especially one born into an environment in which poverty and violence are part of everyday life, being surrounded by supportive adults is critical not only to success but to survival. Children need to know that others have confidence in them; only when they know that can they learn to have confidence in themselves.

Need to Know For more information about PLEASE, visit PleaseFoundation.org. n

Heard something interesting for “making A difference?”

If so, please send it to: St. Charles Avenue, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005 or email Morgan@ MyNewOrleans.com with the subject line “Making A Difference”

saintcharlesavenue.com | 13

kids play

By lynne gibbons

more than 20 feet high. The indoor version, which takes place in a bouldering gym, involves climbing on man-made walls with various grades of incline.

NOBL is the brain-child of owner and entrepreneur Eli Klarman who converted the almost 30,000 square foot warehouse type space of the Cotton Press building on Tchoupitoulas Street into a hip, inviting climbing space. Residing in the fourth flattest state in America, it isn’t surprising that climbing surfaces in New Orleans have to be built! The slanted walls, surrounded by padded foam flooring, rise 12 to 14 feet high against a backdrop of exposed brick walls, huge windows and a unique industrial-feel ceiling with massive exposed beams. It is also the only bouldering gym in the metro area.

What’s Up Climbing the walls at New Orleans Boulder Lounge I love being the first person to find out about a new venue for kids’ entertainment, but credit for discovering the brand-new New Orleans Boulder Lounge (NOBL) belongs to my dear friend and mother-of-two, Danielle Calhoun.

Opened in late summer, it’s a great place to keep kids busy while they stretch those muscles, get in a great 14 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

exercise and climb to new heights.

The best part is, bouldering is a ton of fun too!

What is Bouldering?

For those of you who, like myself, only had a vague idea of what bouldering is, allow me to explain: Bouldering is ropeless climbing on rocks or boulders that are no

How Does it Work?

Since there are no ropes or harnesses used in bouldering, the only gear you need to get started is climbing shoes, which you can bring in or rent from NOBL for $4. You are supported only by your hands and feet and the grips protruding from the brightly colored walls. The grips are also multi-colored. At first glance, you might think this is just for aesthetic reasons since it contributes to the vibe of the environment, but in actuality the colors signify routes of different difficulty levels from beginner to more advanced. Pick one color and follow it and you will criss-cross the walls as you rise to the top, more closely mimicking an actual rock climb. Of course, young kids, who aren’t quite at that level, can move freely from color to color.

My friend’s 6-year-old’s climb resembled a game of Twister more

closely than a mountain climb, but the smile never left her face and the laughs were plenty!

What Does It Cost?

The check-in desk is centrally located right inside the front door.

Eli is usually there to help you select the right package for your bouldering experience. Drop-in day passes are available and are priced as an adult pass for $15 and a student/child pass for $12 with a five-visit punch card available for $60 for adults and $50 for students or children. The punch card is a great option if you’re bringing several kids together.

Adult and student/child monthly memberships are also available.

The prices vary depending on the number of months you purchase but average approximately $65 per month. Plus, if you and your child both decide to become regulars, there is a Family Membership that covers both of you for $90 per month.

NOBL also offers daily specials including an afterschool special every Monday from 3-5 p.m., when student admission is just $8 (gear included) with a student ID. There is also student night every Thursday from 6-10 p.m., when admission is just $10 (gear included). There isn’t a minimum age requirement, but it’s important to note that children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. NOBL also boasts a yoga room that could double for birthday parties in the future. The day we visited, they also had a selection from Breads on Oak available for purchase if your gang needed a mid-climb snack.

Need to Know For more information and specific hours, visit ClimbNOBL.com. n

saintcharlesavenue.com | 15

southern glow

By lorin gaudin

LOVE LIST Recently I’ve been rocking an everyday un-makeup look, saving bigger and bolder looks for evenings and special occasions. My goal is a dewy, not strobed-out (or heavy highlighter), fresh look. Here are the products I’ve been loving:

Masks and Lashes Beauty for the season and beyond Ah, October. The heat gives way (we hope) and our world is filled with fall color and pumpkin spice everything, including delicious smelling shower, bath and candle products. October also means Halloween, and for costuming there’s no shortage of products to enhance a look – scary or sexy. At drug stores and cosmetic shops there are tons of hair chalks, bold-colored eyeshadows, eyeliners, false nails, cool nail polishes and temporary tattoos. This month is a great time for masking and eyelashes, so this month I explore the current trend for sheet masks and false lashes. Of course I can’t go a month without trying new products, adding to my collection and letting you know what’s on my “love list.”

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Masking Nearly every brand imaginable has released a sheet mask. The trend seems to have started with Korean brands, and single-use packets are inexpensive and easy to use. The idea behind sheet masks is that product – nourishing, brightening, pore-tightening, healing, etc. – is soaked onto paper or fabric then placed on the face for 20-30 minutes and voila, a facial in the comfort of your own home. It is said that sheets masks are great for the skin because the warm, moist environment helps your skin absorb the active ingredients soaked into the mask. In a variety of price ranges from $1.99 and up, it’s a lot of fun trying different versions. Here’s a quick list:

• Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Primer • It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream in Medium • It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Corrector • Eve Pearl concealer • Nars Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base • Touch in Sol Browza Super Proff Gel Brow Pencil

• YSL Volume Effet Faux Cils Luxurious Mascara in Burgundy (5) • Nars cream blush in Penny Lane • Too Faced Prep and Prime pressed powder • Rimmel lip liner in East End Snob • Urban Decay High-Color Lip gloss in Failbait • Purchases made at Sephora, Ulta, KawaiiNola (Uptown) and Walgreens.

When ($7): Every mask in this line is great. All are gluten-free and use coconut jelly as their base, so they’re also vegan. The Makeup Base mask is great for prepping the skin before applying cosmetics.

Sephora Honey Mask ($6): Great smell and super nourishing, this mask left my skin soft and balanced.

Lashes Big, bold lashes are in vogue right now – explaining all the new mascara releases. Many beauty companies are opting for the tight, short-bristled rubber brush with claims that it will “grab every lash” for a fluttery look. Jet black, messy, rocker lashes are a big nighttime look. In keeping with the lash theme and with all the holidays and parties ahead, false lash companies have released a slew of lash strips and partnerships with beauty bloggers and makeup artists. In the UK, Eylure has teamed with blogger and YouTube star Fleur de Force on a pretty lash line, while here at home makeup guru (and YouTuber) Vegas Nay has collaborated on her own stylish line of eye fringe available at Ulta.

For Halloween, Fright Night has released really fun glow in the dark and spiderweb lashes. Find them at New Orleans area drugstores or Ulta. At KawaiiNola on Magazine Street, owner Kanako Richard carries a small but cool selection of Japanese cosmetics, including lashes from Sugarpill, Paperself and Dolluxe. The spiderweb half-strip from Paperself is a favorite.

Dr. Jart+ Wrinkless Solution ($7.50): A two-piece body heat gel

mask with peptides and collagen, I found it very hydrating and it immediately smoothed the “11” lines between my brows.

Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask ($95 for a box of 4): It

feels oddly like skin but smells great, and after 20 minutes my skin felt soft and hydrated.

Shisedo White Lucent Power Brightening Mask ($68 for a box of 6): I’m in love with this brand’s skin

lightening products. This mask provides serious skin brightening and left a pretty dewiness.

SK-II Facial Treatment mask ($17):

Glowing skin, beautifully hydrated; this is a bestseller for a reason.

Tony Moly I’m Real Red Wine Face Mask Sheet (7.50 for 2): Infused with

red wine extracts and rosemary, this one smelled great in an herbal way and was effective at tightening the pores around my nose.

Have questions or products to recommend? Email SouthernGlow@ MyNewOrleans.com. n

saintcharlesavenue.com | 17

what’s hot

by amy gabriel

Art There is just something about a piece of art that can elevate everything from a dinner party conversation to a low-lit foyer. Luckily, our dynamic city casts such a wide net of talent that we’ve got an abundance of truly frame-worthy work right at our fingertips. We went gallery hopping and spotted several concepts you’ll want to pay special attention to this fall.

1 2

3 1. If large-scale is your heart’s desire, create space for the ethereal landscape “River Rain,” an oil on canvas. Kevin Gillentine, 3917 Magazine St., 891-0509, KevinGillentine.com 2. Takashi Murakami’s “An Homage to IKB,” 1957 D offset lithograph with cold stamp is a celebration of Japanese pop culture. Martin Lawrence Galleries, 433 Royal St., 299-9055, MartinLawrence.com 3. The acrylic on canvas “Field Notes” with metallic floating frame makes for a blue-hued, dreamy addition to any space. Ashton Shaw Despot, (337) 781-7133, AshtonShawDespot.com 4. The playful “Bat Dog” is a loan piece for the Louisiana Graveyards show that will run in the gallery October 7-December 19. George Rodrigue Foundation, 747 Magazine St., 324-9614,

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select photos by cheryl gerber

4

6

5

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GeorgeRodrigueFoundation.org 5. A full moon meets sunrise message, the mixed media on canvas “Romantics At Night” from artist Mallory Page will be showcased at Martine Chaisson Gallery through November 21. Martine Chaisson Gallery, 727 Camp St., 302-7942, MartineChaissonGallery.com 6. Ever the dynamic, Ashley Longshore’s “You Don’t Look Fat You Look Crazy” is an exclamation point piece. Ashley Longshore Art, 4537 Magazine St., 333-6951, AshleyLongshore.com 7. A remarkable piece of pottery, the duck shaped wine vessel from the Han Dynasty is a piece of Chinese history. Matthew Clayton Brown, 1724 St. Andrew St., 522-5058, MClaytonBrown.com

saintcharlesavenue.com | 19

on the menu Poached Pear and Goat Cheese Tart with Figs and Red Wine Caramel 2 red pears 2 cups white grape juice ½ cup sugar 1 cinnamon stick Red Wine Caramel 1 ½ cups sugar ¼ cup water ¾ cup fruity red wine, like a Pinot noir Pastry Filling 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 4 ounces goat cheese, room temperature 2 Tablespoons sugar 1 egg yolk, reserve white for egg wash 1 package frozen puff pastry Fresh figs

Perfectly Peared Pastry chef Breanne Kostyk shares Ox Lot 9’s Poached Pear and Goat Cheese Tart With Figs and Red Wine Caramel

Ox Lot 9 located inside the Southern Hotel, 428 E. Boston St., Covington, (985) 400-5663, OxLot9.com

20 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

Peel pears, slice in half, and remove cores and stems.

Slice pears lengthwise, about ½-inch thick. In a saucepan, add the pears, grape juice, ½-cup sugar and cinnamon stick. Cook over medium-low heat to a gentle, constant simmer. Cook until pears are tender, about 45 minutes.

Remove from heat and set aside.

While the pears are poaching, prep the remaining components.

Red Wine Caramel: Heat sugar with ¼-cup of water over medium-high heat. To avoid crystallization try not to stir with a spoon; instead, give the pan a shake back and forth over heat to agitate the syrup. Cook until a deep golden color.

Remove from heat and

slowly whisk in red wine a little at a time. Return to low heat to dissolve any caramel that may have hardened.

Set aside.

Pastry Filling: Beat cream cheese, goat cheese, sugar and egg yolk with an electric mixer until smooth.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Pull sheets of puff pastry from the freezer and allow to sit out for 1 minute to soften slightly. Using a 3 ½-inch round biscuit cutter, cut out 12 circles. In 6 of the circles use a 2-inch cutter to punch out the center to make rings.

Place rings of dough on top of the remaining 6 circles and gently press together.

If biscuit cutters are unavailable to you, cut puff pastry into 4-inch squares.

Using just a single layer for each, pull the sides of the dough in about ½-inch and pinch corners together to make a box shape. Transfer to a parchment lined baking sheet and set in the freezer for at least 15 minutes. Pull sheet pan from freezer and immediately place in oven.

Bake tarts for 8 minutes.

Remove from oven and let sit for about 1 minute.

Brush edges of tarts with reserved egg white. In the center of the tarts, spoon in the goat cheese mixture, gently pressing down the air pocket. Return to oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Tarts can be served right out of the oven or at room temperature.

To serve: Top the tarts with warm pears and slices of fresh figs. Drizzle a little red wine caramel over top.

jeffery johnston photograph

saintcharlesavenue.com | 21

the dish

By jyl benson

TRY THIS Kingfish recently kicked off a Kitchen & Cocktails Dinner Series pairing chef Nathan Richard’s clever kitchen creations with bar master Chris McMillan’s cocktail artistry. Each five- to six-course dinner has a different theme.

Upcoming dinners include the Halloween-inspired Odd Bits (October, $55), The Boucherie (November, $65) and Southern meets Italian (December, $65.)

A Case of Mistaken Identity When the worst table is actually the best We called ahead to say we would be arriving 10 minutes late for our 6:30 reservation at Vincent’s. A Friday night, people were already stacked three deep at the moodily lit bar, so we begrudgingly accepted the only open table: a two top against the wall across from the host’s stand, that would put one of us

22 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

with our back to the door and the other with a view of it that ensured a face full of blazing streetlight at the corner of St. Charles Avenue and Fern Street.

Both of us were assured repeated blasts of hot air from the street.

The table sucked, but we were hungry and the place was crowded so we settled.

“Hey Baby, how’s your family?

Look how big you’ve gotten!

How’d that deal work out? We’ve got a special on the menu tonight that’s got your name on it. Mr. C! What a lovely dress, looking good! Let me get chair for you, ma’am. It’s a dry vodka martini with an olive and an onion: I’ll have that sent right over.”

Watching co-owner Anthony “Tony” Imbraguglio work his art is straight up cinema verite. Ever in motion with fluidity and grace, his is the kind of relaxed, though courtly, service associated with a dying breed of older restaurateur.

But this 40-something man has the touch: He makes children feel important, women beautiful and men virile. Many warrant hugs or a kiss on the cheek. Upon accepting his greeting, Imbraguglio’s guests stand taller. What, after all, would one expect of the most important person in the room – even in a room full of them, you just know it’s you Tony admires most.

The food at Vincent’s is as fresh, flavorful and robust as it has ever been in the restaurant’s 17-year history. The Rose of Sicily pairs two pan-fried long-stemmed artichokes with a sauté of fresh sage, garlic and tomato with ribbons of prosciutto. The Oysters Almondine is both creamy

and crisp, the crunch of toasted almonds a welcome foil for the rich sauce. The Chicken Parmigiana could be a standard bearer for the New Orleans-style red gravy

classic and a special of grilled Duck Breast Carbonara was studded with sweet peas and ribbons of onion. Each

dish was large enough for two.

We left happy, entertained and satisfied. What we thought was the worst table in the house turned out to be the best. With Tony at his station, Vincent’s delivers both dinner and a show.

A veteran of kitchens helmed by the likes of Tom Colicchio, Jean-Georges, Emeril Lagasse, Rick Tramonto and John Folse, chef Ryan Haigler recently took over the kitchen at Grand Isle, and the revamped menu is at once familiar and brilliantly unique. In an appetizer of Alligator “Wings” small, bone-in pieces of baby swamp beast are brined and then basted with a sweet-hot peach glaze as they roast to a deep mahogany hue and served atop an unexpected froth of whipped bleu cheese. There is a lot going on here and I feared it might not work, but it did – it really, really did.

Just caught that morning, a whole lane snapper was deeply scored in a diamond pattern before it was battered, deep fried and set atop jicama slaw and a vibrant ginger, sesame, garlic reduction. Dessert was a mercifully diminutive peanut butter cheesecake served in a small jar, the mousse filling piped atop

a crumble of powdered graham crackers. A thin glaze jelly and a puff of toasted marshmallow bits crowned the creation. n

Grand Isle 575 Convention Center Blvd., (on the Fulton Street promenade) 520-8530, GrandIsleRestaurant.com Kingfish, Charters St., 598-5005, KingfishNewOrleans.com Vincent’s 7839 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313, VincentsItalianCuisine.com

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SOUTHERN CANDYMAKERS 334 DECATUR ST. & 1010 DECATUR ST. NEW ORLEANS LA 70130 504.523.5544 saintcharlesavenue.com | 23

philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

An All-American Anniversary

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National World War II Museum celebrated 15 years.

Decorated with celebratory décor, the National World War II Museum hosted the 2015 “Whitney Bank Victory Ball,” a grand celebration of the museum’s 15th anniversary.

The Crystal Achievement Award was presented to those whose actions in support of the museum over the past 15 years have reflected the values and spirit of those who served the United States during WWII. Recipients were: Joy and Boysie Bollinger; Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation; Mrs. Joyce Dunn; Freeport–McMoRan Foundation; and Paulette and Frank Stewart. The Silver Service Medallion was awarded to two WWII veterans: Harold Baumgarten and Bert Stolier.

Carolyn and Gary Lorio with Jan and Colonel Larry Merington served as Event Co-Chairs; Honorary Co-Chairs were Jane and Major General David Mize.

Patron Party guests were greeted in the American Sector Bar and Restaurant and later escorted into the US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center for the program and dinner service. Chef John Folse created a menu inspired by the European Theater of WWII. The Funky Meters performed after dinner entertainment.

Auction items included a flight on a WWII-era P-51 Mustang; a private, in-home dinner party catered by Victory Ball Guest Chef John Folse; and a private daytime cruise for 18 passengers on the fully restored PT-305 Higgins boat.

Later guests mingled in the Otto Candies LLC Post Party Lounge, filled with oversized balloons and lush floral arrangements. Each guest received a small bottle of champagne.

Proceeds from the “Victory Ball” help advance the museum’s educational initiatives. n

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event at a glance What: “Whitney Bank Victory Ball,” benefiting the National World War II Museum When: Friday, June 12 Where: National World War II Museum 1. Crystal Achievement Award honoree Joyce Dunn and Bill Detweiler 2.

Event Co-Chairs Gary and Carolyn Lorio and Event Co-Chairs Colonel Larry and Jan Merington 3. Marshall Hevron with Honorary Co-Chairs Jane and Maj. Gen. David Mize 4. Leslie Stokes, Silver Service Medallion honoree Bert Stolier and Hal Stokes 5. Paul and Mardlyn Hilliard with museum President and CEO Dr. Nick and Beth Mueller with Crystal Achievement Award honorees Joy and Boysie Bollinger 6. Rita and Silver Service Medallion honoree Dr. Harold Baumgarten

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philanthropic fun

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Advancing the Arts

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A night of food and entertainment to support the mission of The NOCCA Institute.

The “Big 4-Oh! Gala” marked the debut of the new Chevron Forum next to NOCCA’s main riverfront campus. The party flowed through the Solomon Family Hall, 5 Press Gallery and Press Street Station.

For the Patron Party, guests were greeted by pedicabs, which rolled up to the event where champagne and hors d’oeuvres prepared by NOCCA’s Culinary Arts students waited.

The gala was catered by a number of local restaurants, including: Bacchanal, Bittersweet, Brigtsen’s, Commander’s Palace, Emeril’s, Frankie & Johnny’s, La Petite Grocery, Meauxbar, Mondo, Patois, Pralines by Jean, Press Street Station, Swiss Confectionery, Sylvain, The Balcony Ballroom and Willa Jean.

The Solomon Group was in charge of making each space vibrant and festive, and entertainment included NOCCA students from the Classical, Jazz, Vocal, Drama, Musical Theatre, Dance and Creative Writing departments; Jee Yeoun Ko and Michael Pellera; the Young Alumni All-Stars; the Alumni All-Stars; and Grammy Award-winners Terence Blanchard and Pedrito Martinez.

The silent and live auctions featured vacation packages, artwork and one-of-a-kind experiences. Highlights included a ride in the Orpheus parade, a set of earrings from Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers and a night of food and music provided by NOCCA faculty members pianist Michael Pellera and chef Dana D’Anzi Tuohy. Gesture conducted the silent auction, and John Calhoun served as live auctioneer.

Approximately 800 guests attended the event, where Robin Burgess and Terrence Blanchard served as Event Co-Chairs and Celeste Marshall and Vanessa Van Vrancken were the alumni Co-Chairs. n

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event at a glance What: “Big 4-Oh! Gala,” benefiting NOCCA Institute When: Sunday, May 17 Where: 2831 Chartres St.

1. Madeline and Board Member Christopher Price with NOCCA President and CEO Kyle Wedberg 2. Alumni Co-Chair Celeste Marshall, Gary Solomon Jr. and Alumni Co-Chair Vanessa Van Vrancken 3. Chefs Dana Tuohy, David Slater, Frank Brigtsen and David McCelvey 4. Board Member Robert and Danielle LeBlanc 5. Milly and George Denegre with James and Board Member Kelly Brown 6. Board Member Greg Morey and Scott James

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philanthropic fun

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Big Ideas for Little People

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March of Dimes hosted its annual “Spotlight on Success” to campaign for babies’ health.

The “Spotlight on Success,” benefiting March of Dimes, honored 31 individuals for their contribution of $2500 in Fair Market Value of auction donations. Each honoree was presented on stage to his or her song of choice. Camille Whitworth, of WDSU-TV, served as the emcee, and Groovy 7 provided musical entertainment.

This year, the live auction offered healthy living packages, jewelry, original artwork, dining certificates, sporting event tickets, vacation packages and a ride in the Krewe of Orpheus parade. The silent auction boasted 147 items.

The event committee included: Kimberly Bradley Shirer, Michelle Burtch, Melinda Clements, Lin Dang, Elise Eigher, Erin Goodrow, Whitney Hymel, Heather Kahn, Brooke Kellerhals Schmidt, Libby Kemp, Megan McKown, Jen Mire, Aaron Ramsey, Wendy Riley, Marie Rougelot, Joshua Rubenstein, Hannah Salter, Chris Shirer, Bradley Spieler and Shelby Wynne.

The honorees were: Devin Barnett, Jessica Bayard, Brandy Bellina, Ashley Brennan, Brandon Bulliard, Emily Byrd, Alicia Domangue, Raven Fielding, David Fuselier, Joel Galatas, Brittany Gilbert, Ty Grubbs, Rebecca Gustafson, Michael Jones, Katherine Kovach, Bryant Laiche, Elizabeth-Ashley Landry, Ellen Lockhart, Kelsey Loup, Melissa Maia, Frannie Montegut, Amal MughrabiRoussel, Chuck Nwanze, Emily Smith, Katie Sternberger, Stacey Stiel, Sage Theriot, George Van Wormer, Eric Wallace, Constance Whittaker and Aimee Willem.

Approximately 800 patrons attended the gala, which benefits the March of Dimes campaign to reduce the rate of premature births, birth defects and other serious threats to the health of babies. n

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event at a glance What: “Spotlight on Success,” benefiting March of Dimes When: Friday, June 12 Where: Generations Hall

1. Honorees Katherine Kovach, Alicia Domanque and Rebecca Gustafson 2.

Event Committee Members Joshua Rubenstein, Jen Mire, Elise Eigher, Wendy Riley and Bradley Spieler 3. Honorees Brittany Gilbert, Ty Grubbs, Stacey Stiel and Sage Theriot 4. Honorees Elizabeth-Ashley Landry and Brandy Bellina 5.

Honorees Emily Byrd, Devin Barnett and Raven Fielding 6. Event Committee Members Shelby Wynne and Aaron Ramsey

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philanthropic fun

by Shelby Simon

Matters of the Heart

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The American Heart Association hosted a grand gala to fundraise for cardiovascular wellness.

Floating candles glittered with rhinestone accents, white roses glowed on black tables and large balloon creations made a statement in the grand ballroom for the 2015 “Heart & Soul Gala.”

Cynthia Lee-Sheng served as speaker, addressing a crowd of 500 patrons. Ray and Jessica Brandt were the Event Chairs. Swingaroux provided live entertainment throughout the evening, which included a dinner provided by the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

The auction included art by Terrance Osborne, a guest appearance for two on “NCIS: New Orleans,” a trip to Italy and several vacations to Antigua and Barbados. There was also a raffle for a 2015 Toyota Camry, donated by the Ray and Jessica Brandt Family Foundation.

Company leaders, physicians and notables came together at the “Heart and Soul Gala” to show their support in the fight against the No. 1 killer of men and women in New Orleans: heart disease.

The funds raised at the gala will help the American Heart Association to continue fund research and educational programs happening right here in New Orleans. One hundred percent of the funds raised through the gala is invested back into the New Orleans community through educational outreach programs, CPR training and certification, placement of automated external defibrillators and funding for groundbreaking medical research. n

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event at a glance What: “Heart & Soul Gala,” benefiting American Heart Association When: Saturday, May 16 Where: Hyatt Regency New Orleans

1. Event Chairs Jessica and Ray Brandt 2. Speaker Cynthia Lee-Sheng and Dr. Gerry Cvitanovich 3. Dr. Robert Matheney and Stephanie and Terrance Osborne 4. Shawn and Newell Normand and Holley Haag 5. Drs. Nicolas and Haydee Bazan with Donna and Russell Klein 6. Joseph Zolfo, Nicole Jones and Tricia and Glen Golemi

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photographed by Jeff Strout

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philanthropic fun

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Curtain Call

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The “Opening Night Party” raised awareness for the Shakespeare Festival at Tulane University.

The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane opened its 22nd season with the production of Cymbeline by William Shakespeare. It was the first time that this play had been performed by the festival.

Following the play, the “Opening Night Party” unfolded in Tulane’s Lupin Hall. Guests, patrons and actors about 150 in all, enjoyed wine and cheese as everyone celebrated the triumphant production..

Production photos from Shakespeare Festival seasons past, as well as 2015 company members, added to the ambience in Lupin Hall.

The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane also produced the following this season: Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest (July 11-25); Incarnate, an original interdisciplinary artistic experience created in collaboration with Compleat Stage (July 15-22); and The Gavin Mahlie “All Things Shakespeare” Program (August 6-9).

The “Opening Night Party” benefits the Shakespeare Festival at Tulane, which raises awareness for the Shakespeare Festival Season and its educational components. n

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event at a glance What: “Opening Night Party,” benefiting New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane University When: Saturday, June 13 Where: Lupin Hall, Tulane University

1. Rob Clare, Lou Hoffman and Tulane University President Michael Fitts 2.

Juan Barona, Reiko Aylesworth and Judge Stanwood and Janet Duval 3. Martin Sachs and Barbara Hayley

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photographed by Melissa Calico

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philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Mint to Read

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The Faulkner Society partnered with One Book One New Orleans to campaign for literacy and community.

The Faulkner Society is partnering with One Book One New Orleans this year to create literary initiatives for at-risk teenagers and adults.

One Book One New Orleans committee members included Megan Holt, Candace Weber, Stacey Balkun, Elizabeth Hyman, Kaylee Smith, Jessica Daigle, Laurence Kopelovich, Elizabeth Burger and David Baker. Co-Chairs of the “Juleps in June” committee were Garner Robinson, Angie Bowlin, Chris Fransen and Kent Prince.

The guests of honor were three authors with recent book publications: Brian Boyles, Patty Friedmann and Nia Terezakis.

The drink of the evening, mint juleps, were presented in traditional engraved silver julep cups. The cups also serve as the annual collectible patron favor.

Glenn Vatshell, owner and chef of Palate New Orleans, provided lavish hors d’oeuvres and a buffet supper. The Jasper Brothers, led

by Robert Eustic, lightened the ambience with musical entertainment.

Each year, the Faulkner Society auctions an original painting of William Faulkner. This year’s painting depicts Faulkner in front of 624 Pirate’s Alley where he wrote his first novel, Soldier’s Pay, and was donated by French Quarter artist A.J.S. “Joy” Kinney.

Proceeds from the event benefit literacy initiatives and projects to assist developing writers of all ages. n

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event at a glance What: “Juleps in June,” benefiting The Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society When: Friday, June 5 Where: Private residence of Tia and James Roddy

1. Ron and Faulkner Society Chairman Anne Pincus with Elizabeth and Bill Sewell 2. Bruce Wallis, Virginia Miller, Faulkner Society Co-Founder Rosemary James and Ginja Moseley 3. Pat and J.J. Morrison with One Book One New Orleans Committee Member Dr. Megan Holt

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philanthropic fun

by Shelby Simon

Collaborating for Community

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“Rhythm & Soul” honored Marjorie Bissinger and Nancy Bissinger Timm.

Glass presentation pieces with inscribed dedication plaques decorated the entryway of the Audubon Tea Room for “Rhythm & Soul 2015.” The event drew over 200 attendees and raised over $50,000 for Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans, and underwrites programs and services for the agency that are available to the entire community.

The honorees were Marjorie Bissinger and Nancy Bissinger Timm. Rachel Timm Bowron, daughter of Nancy Timm and granddaughter of Marjorie Bissinger, spoke on behalf of the grandchildren and family with personal tributes to the two honorees.

Deena Gerber, former Executive Director, then presented Bissinger and Timm with their awards. Brook Bissinger, Ashley Merlin and Julie Weiner served as Event Chairs.

Preceding dinner, the Patron Party included a special cocktail – the Bissinger-Timm’s Cup – named for the two honorees. The Mike Rihner Trio performed musical entertainment for the main program. n

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event at a glance What: “Rhythm & Soul,” benefiting Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans When: Sunday, May 31 Where: Audubon Tea Room

1. Honoree Marjorie Bissinger, Steve Timm, honoree Nancy Bissinger Timm and Julie Wise Oreck 2. Barbara Greenberg, Roselle Ungar and Co-Chair Ashley Merlin 3. Brandon Bissinger, Co-Chair Brook Bissinger, Eli Timm, speaker Rachel Timm Bowron and Hallie Timm

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photographed by Will Strout

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philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Wining in Public

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In its 22nd year, the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience fought hunger and supported culinary education.

The Krewe of Cork paraded down Royal Street with over 2,000 patrons to mark the world-famous wine industry phenomenon, the “Royal Street Stroll.” The evening, benefiting the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, brought together New Orleans treasures such as rare antiques, fine art, live jazz and historic architecture, combined with outstanding wines. Patrons could shop the galleries of Royal Street while experiencing wine offerings at each stop and food tents along the way. Wine-themed costumes are always welcome.

The “VIP Welcome Party” was held at Brennan’s. King Patrick van Hoorebeek presided as royalty-for-the-day, and Grand Marshalls included several renowned winemakers. The “Royal Street Stroll” was part of the 22nd anniversary of NOWFE, a multi-day event, which features culinary seminars, demonstrations, wine dinners and wine tastings presented by leaders in the New Orleans and national wine community.

Participating wineries included: Alexander Valley Vineyards, Binderer St. Ursula Weinkellerei, Bodegas Riojanas, Ca’Momi Napa Valley, Copper Cane Wine and Provisions, Esporao Wines and Olive Oils, Espirit du Vin Fine Wine Merchants, Folio Fine Wine Partners, J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines, Kobrand Corporation, Premium Port Wines and Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Food purveyors included: Hard Rock Café, Hotel Mazarin, The Irish House, Kingfish, NOLA Restaurant, Quintin’s Natural Ice Cream and Roux on Orleans.

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience 2015 Executive Committee included: President Susan Hislop (Home Team Productions); Vice President Ted Selogie (General Manager of JW Marriott New Orleans); Treasurer Traci Beninate (Glazers Company of Louisiana); Secretary Chris Brancato (co-owner of Merchant & Beta); and Past-President Chris Ycaza (general manager of Broussard’s Restaurant). n

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event at a glance

What: “Royal Street Stroll,” benefiting New Orleans Wine & Food Experience When: Thursday, May 21 Where: 200-900 Royal Street

1. NOWFE Secretary Christopher Brancato, host Ralph Brennan, Stu Barash and Harsha and Diya Chacko 2. Simone Rathle, chef Slade Rushing and NOWFE Treasurer Traci Beninate 3. Lauren Homer, Tim Acosta and NOWFE President Susan Hislop

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philanthropic fun

by Shelby Simon

Red is the New Black

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Preservation Resource Center hosted a benefit for African-American heritage programs and Orleans Parish education.

“A Red Hot Jazz Gala: 15th annual Ladies in Red” honored Antoine “Fats” Domino, Doreen Ketchens, Ellis Marsalis, Deacon John Moore, Tipitina’s Foundation and Joseph Torregano for their contributions to the cultural legacy of New Orleans. Held at The Historic Carver Theater on Friday, May 15, this festive gala also raised funds over $60,000 to support Preservation Resource Center’s African American Heritage Preservation programs and the My City, My Home education program for students at schools throughout Orleans Parish.

The gala was Co-Chaired by Tara Carter Hernandez and Anne Redd, was emceed by Alfred Parker, and featured entertainment

by Sons of Jazz Brass Band, David Torkanowsky’s Trio and Big Sam’s Funky Nation.

Over 400 partygoers donned a variety of red dresses, suits and accessories that coordinated perfectly with the specialty lighting provided courtesy of Solomon Group and pink specialty cocktail provided by Café Dauphine. Complimentary valet was provided by Fidelity Bank, and wine and champagne courtesy of Second Vine Wine. Local restaurants including Almost Home Catering, Café Dauphine, Café Gentilly, Café Reconcile, Creole Creamery, Dooky Chase Restaurant, Five Happiness Chinese Restaurant, Jacques-Imo’s, Catering by Laura Arrowwood, Lil’ Dizzy’s Café, Lilly’s Café, McHardy’s Chicken N Fixins, Nolavore, Palace Café, Pralines by Jean…and Cupcakes Too!, Stickball NOLA and The Praline Connection provided delectable New Orleans cuisine. n

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event at a glance What: “A Red Hot Jazz Gala: 15th annual Ladies in Red,” benefiting Preservation Resource Center When: Friday, May 15 Where: The Carver Theater

1. Co-Chair Anne Redd, Honoree Doreen Ketchens, Dorian Ketchens and Co-Chair Tara Hernandez 2. Ernest & Jackie George, Honoree Joseph Torregano and Holley and Geoff Snodgrass 3. Gaynell Lawrence, Rhesa McDonald, Antoinette D. Smith and Rachelle Ogden

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photographed by Jeff Strout

4116 Canal Street New Orleans, LA 70119 504.486.9622 www.sofasandchairsnola.com saintcharlesavenue.com | 41

philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Dressing the Part

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Annual “Suits & Salads” luncheon raised funds to lift Dress for Success to new heights.

At this year’s “Suits & Salads” luncheon, Jennifer Davis was presented with the Volunteer of the Year Award. Shon Cowan Baker, Meaghan Bonavita and Sarah Martzolf served as Event Chairs. Also in attendance were DFSNO President Diane Riche and Immediate Past President Juli Miller Hart, who served as event emcee.

The Truffle Honeys started the entertainment, followed by Chenita Pickett-Amos as client motivational speaker. Ti Martin served as keynote speaker, dancing up to the stage in her Aunt Adelaide’s monkey coat and hat to the tune of “We are Family.”

She spoke on the importance of surrounding oneself with a positive community and helping others, regaling the audience with family stories and hilarious tidbits.

The fashion segment featured five community style setters, representing five boutiques from the metro area: Katie LeGardeur for Ballin’s Ltd., Marilee Hovet for W by Worth Collection, Gina Goings for eM’s, Jennifer Lauscha for MIMI and chef Sue Zemanick for söpö.

The event invitation artist, fashion illustrator and custom bridal illustrator Marianne Angeli Rodriguez had a selection of original artwork and prints available for sale to support DFSNO. Raffle treasures included jewelry from Hiller Jewelry and Mignon Faget. Popular silent auction items included vintage Chanel earrings, a weekend stay at the Windsor Court and many other prizes.

Dress for Success New Orleans helps disadvantaged women in our community by providing a head to toe interviewing suit, resume building and interviewing skills, followed by additional wardrobe and professional support. The funds raised at the luncheon this year will go toward hiring a new Executive Director to bring Dress for Success to the next level by reaching more women in the New Orleans community. n

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event at a glance What: “Suits & Salads” luncheon, benefiting Dress For Success New Orleans When: Friday, May 15 Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel

1. Co-Chair Meaghan Bonavita, Keynote Speaker Ti Martin and DSFNO President Diane Riche 2. Chef Sue Zemanick, Emily Walker, Gina Goings and Robin Borne 3. Dana Hansel and emcee and DSFNO Immediate Past President Julie Miller Hart

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Cancer Awareness Spotlight Local emerging and established technologies and treatments

BY KELCY WILBURN Physicians employ a variety of treatment options to combat cancer diagnoses, and while some treatments and procedures are tried and true, emerging technologies and research can add to their arsenal. This month, we explore both established and emerging techniques and technologies that local healthcare providers have found helpful in assisting cancer patients.

Skin Cancer Prevention & Treatment According to physicians at Audubon Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with current estimates indicating that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The trend in dermatology is preventative care, and to that end fighting pre-cancers or actinic keratosis with liquid nitrogen has been a common treatment. The highly effective treatment “freezes” the pre-cancer and destroys it.

“What this therapy does not do is rid the surrounding high-risk

skin of pre-cancerous cells,” says Dr. Deidre Hooper. “The latest technology in skin cancer helps totally eradicate the pre-cancerous cells and also prevent regrowth of these lesions. We now have several FDA approved creams and an in-office FDA-approved treatment that not only treat the lesion, but the very important surrounding skin,” she says. According to Hooper, these advanced creams and treatments can help prevent the next skin cancer by eradicating clinical and sub-clinical (not yet seen or felt) pre-cancers.

“Many dermatologists focus on the eradication of existing precancerous skin lesions and don’t take the time to talk to patients about the benefits of treating the entire ‘field’ of sun-damaged, cancer-risk skin to prevent future pre-cancers and cancers,” adds Dr. Sarah Jackson. While physicians have been using photodynamic therapy and cancer fighting creams for years, new dosing strategies and strength variance can be used to better tailor treatment plans to each patient.

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“About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with unprotected ultraviolet (UV) exposure.”

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“Fellowshiptrained Mohs surgeons are uniquely able to ... precisely identify and remove skin cancers layer by layer until margins are cleared, leaving the surrounding healthy tissue intact and unharmed ...”

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Skin cancer can sometimes require more invasive treatment than creams, and at The Skin Surgery Centre, Drs. Keith LeBlanc Jr. and Elizabeth F. Bucher primarily focus on Mohs micrographic surgery (surgery to remove skin cancer) and reconstruction. While some cosmetic services are offered at the Centre, Drs. LeBlanc and Bucher don’t offer general dermatological services, but rather focus on procedures, such as Mohs.

“While I would not consider Mohs surgery ‘new’ I do believe that it’s cutting-edge and yet under-appreciated by the public at-large,” says LeBlanc, and despite skin cancer’s staggering statistics, many people have never heard of the long-established procedure.

“Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons are uniquely able to serve as cancer surgeon, pathologist, and reconstructive surgeon all in one setting. This allows us to precisely identify and remove skin cancers layer by layer until margins are cleared, leaving the surrounding healthy tissue intact and unharmed,” says LeBlanc. According to LeBlanc, the procedure has numerous benefits including cure rates over 99 percent in some instances and often the possibility of a one-day in-office treatment using only local anesthesia.

“To me, Mohs surgery is cuttingedge because of its extremely high cure rate, even in tumors, which have previously been treated unsuccessfully using other modalities. Additionally, we’re in the midst of a skin cancer epidemic, so skin cancer treatment modalities have never been so needed or useful,” he says.

Dr. Alan Lewis of Crescent DermSurgery is also a Mohs surgeon and is the former Director of the Mohs Surgery section at

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the Tulane Cancer Center. To help explain how the surgery works, Lewis uses the analogy of peeling an onion to demonstrate the way in which surgeons remove just a small portion of tissue at a time to identify exactly where cancer is present without removing too much tissue.

“Mohs is indicated for higher risk tumors in locations such as the head and neck, hands and feet and lower legs – places where you don’t have much skin or tissue, or where you have functional or cosmetic healing concerns,” says Lewis. By removing only small portions of tissue at a time, the physician is able to minimize the wound and consequent scarring or distortion of the critical site.

According to Lewis, the surgeon examines the edges and underside of the removed tissue and then outlines the exact location of any areas of cancer. If more cancer is found, the procedure is repeated in stages until it’s determined that no cancer cells remain. Typically the process is completed in two to four hours, although in more complicated cases, it can take several hours.

Both Drs. Lewis and LeBlanc emphasize the need for more awareness and prevention of skin cancer.

“About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with unprotected ultraviolet (UV) exposure,” says LeBlanc. “We as dermatologists and Mohs surgeons need to make the public aware of the ways that patients can protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays and prevent skin cancers in the future.”

Methods of protection include seeking shade when possible, avoiding sun during peak hours (10 a.m.-4 p.m.), wearing protective clothing

and hats, and using a broadspectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or above applied as directed.

“A big thing people may not realize,” says Lewis, “is that for sunscreen to be effective, it needs to be reapplied every two hours. It doesn’t stay on.”

Breast Cancer Detection and Treatment Dr. A. John Colfry III, a fellowship-trained Breast Surgical Oncologist with Touro’s Crescent City Physicians, specializes in diseases of the breast, which includes both benign and malignant disease.

Colfry’s preferred treatment method falls under the tried and true, established variety and is commonly referred to as a lumpectomy. When feasible, Colfry believes in breast conservation for breast cancer surgery, which includes removing the tumor with a healthy rim of non-cancerous tissue around the tumor.

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“Young women need to demand ultrasounds. ... Most people don’t know that that’s something they should be getting.”

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“For decades lumpectomy has been used to treat breast cancer; however, the field of oncoplastic surgery has transformed a once disfiguring procedure into a more cosmetically appealing result,” says Colfry. “For women who desire breast preservation, I use specific oncoplastic techniques during surgery to improve cosmesis.”

In addition to treating a large volume of breast cancer patients, Touro’s Crescent City Physicians also has a benign disease clinic and a high risk clinic for patients with a strong family history of breast cancer and who may need genetic testing and genetic counseling. According to Colfry, knowing family history of cancer is an important component to breast cancer prevention.

“Depending on which family members have a positive breast cancer history and their ages of diagnosis, you may fit criteria for genetic testing,” says Colfry. The results of genetic testing may then affect how a patient and their physician move forward with screening and preventative measures.

Before a lumpectomy occurs, a physician must first locate and diagnose breast cancer, and according to Dr. Penelope Treece of Southern Aesthetics, “As far as detection, there’s really no new tumor finder.” Treece recommends breast ultrasounds as an effective method for identifying lesions. After reviewing a patient’s mammogram results, Treece will conduct a breast ultrasound to correspond with the mammogram.

The results of the ultrasound then determine if a biopsy or other diagnostic option is needed.

“Young women need to demand ultrasounds,” says Treece. “Most people don’t know that that’s

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“Depending on which family members have a positive breast cancer history and their ages of diagnosis, you may fit criteria for genetic testing.”

”

something they should be getting.”

The American Cancer Society guidelines for early detection of breast cancer are currently being updated, but for the past few years have included regular clinical breast exams for women in their twenties and annual mammography at age 40. For people with a family history of breast cancer, however, Treece encourages patients to be proactive in asking for a breast ultrasound and to research the possibilities with their physician and insurance company.

“Ultrasound speaks volumes over a mammogram,” says Treece.

Post-Radiation Therapy Radiation is commonly used as a method of fighting cancer, sometimes on its own and sometimes in conjunction with chemotherapy. Areas of the body that are treated with radiation can often be scarred much in the way of a burn. Since 2006, Dr. Stephen Metzinger has offered an advanced method of treating post-radiation injury at Aesthetic Surgical Associates, a cosmetic surgery practice that also offers a number of reconstructive options for cancer patients.

For patients with postradiation injury, Metzinger offers structural fat grafting, also known as fat grafting with adipose derived stem cells.

“While fat grafting has been used for years for volume replacement, this is new in terms of a treatment for radiation injury,” says Metzinger. “We discovered by fat grafting these areas that we are able to restore volume using natural tissue and secondly able to improve the quality and texture of the overlying skin.”

According to Metzinger, the largest number of stem cells stored in the body are located in fat cells, and it is believed that the improved quality of skin after structural fat grafting is due to the presence of the adipose derived stem cells. While many patients are referred to Aesthetic Surgical Associates, consultations are available. One caveat though – this type of therapy is still considered new and rarely covered by insurance.

“

“We discovered by fat grafting these areas that we are able to restore volume using natural tissue and secondly able to improve the quality and texture of the overlying skin.”

”

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Pediatric Oncology

“

“Many people are quite surprised when they are diagnosed because they never imagined that they themselves would ever get the big ‘C.’”

”

48 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

While the names of St. Jude, M. D. Anderson and Johns Hopkins may be common when it comes to pediatric cancer treatment, many Louisianians don’t realize that cutting-edge cancer treatment for children exists here at Children’s Hospital in New Orleans. Children’s Hospital’s Cancer Program is a member of the prestigious Children’s Oncology Group (COG), a national study group of premier research institutes in the United States and Canada.

“COG is a group of institutions and board-certified or board-eligible physicians – and is the only pediatric cooperative group – providing trials to both understand and treat different types of cancer that occur in children,” says Dr. Lolie C. Yu, Division Chief and Director of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology/ HSCT at Children’s Hospital.

Thanks to COG’s efforts, Children’s Hospital is now achieving successful outcomes by incorporating targeted treatment that uses the immune system to destroy cancer cells.

“We learned we can identify the different antigens on the surface of tumor cells and use antibodies, which can be developed to try and get rid of cancer cells,” says Dr. Yu. In the case of neuroblastoma, a malignant tumor most commonly found in the adrenal gland, this targeted treatment, which is now FDA-approved and administered following chemotherapy, has increased survival rates from a previously dismal <20 percent to a range of 65-70 percent, according to Dr. Yu. The principle of targeted treatment is now being applied to other types of cancer in ongoing clinical trials.

Prevention, Screenings, & Support As a hematology and oncology specialist at Touro, Dr. Scott Sonnier encounters a number of patients who find themselves suddenly and often surprisingly in need of cancer treatment.

“We see cancers develop in both young and old people in all walks of life. Many people are quite surprised when they are diagnosed because they never imagined that they themselves would ever get the big ‘C,’” he says. “The best way to not get this surprise is to follow cancer preventive strategies including preventive diet, lifestyles, screening tests and evaluation of family history.”

A long-established health provider, Touro has over a century of work experience in treating cancer and blood disorders. According to Sonnier, the hospital is continually using new therapies as they’re developed and made available to the community. In addition, he says, they participate in clinical trials, often evaluating therapies before they are made available.

Touro offers a number of classes, seminars and screenings throughout the year, which can be found on the hospital’s website, Touro.com.

Aesthetic Surgical Associates 3223 8th St., Suite 200 Metairie 309-7061 AestheticSurgical.com

Audubon Dermatology 3525 Prytania St., Suite 501 895-3376 AudubonDermatology.com

Dr. A. John Colfry III Touro’s Crescent City Physicians, Inc. 3434 Prytania St., Suite 320 897-7142 CrescentCityPhysicians.com

Crescent DermSurgery 4421 Chastant St. Metairie 570-6370 CrescentDermSurgery.com

The Skin Surgery Centre 1615 Metairie Road, Suite 101 Metairie 644-4226 TheSkinSurgeryCentre.com

Southern Aesthetics 3815 Hessmer Ave. Metairie 779-7749 PenelopeTreece.com

Dr. Lolie C. Yu Pediatric HematologyOncology/HSCT Children's Hospital 200 Henry Clay Ave. 899-9511 CHNola.com

saintcharlesavenue.com | 49

ADVERTISING SECTION

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ADVERTISING SECTION

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Ann Koerner antiques

Ashley Hall interiors

Enhancing Your Home Advice for new antique collectors

by Kelcy Wilburn For many young professionals, the transition from an apartment full of cheap, basic necessities to a home full of meaningful, functional items can take years. The emergence of a distinct home environment often accompanies one’s personal growth in their career, their sense of style and their appreciation for the finer things in life. For many, acquiring antiques – whether through inheritance or purchase – is a natural part of the process and seen as an essential way to enhance the home. Often, though, those looking to start a collection or build around a family heirloom are overwhelmed or intimidated by the vast and diverse market. So where does one start?

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empire antiques

According to Nancy Napoli, owner of Empire Antiques, a collection should begin with a feeling.

“People want to have a connection to the past, and maybe it’s a trinket or statue that speaks to them, and then they buy that one thing. And when they pass that item in their house, it brings back something soothing, comforting and familiar,” says Napoli. Once it starts, she says, the feeling often grows into a passion.

Purchasing what appeals to you as opposed to what you think might be a good investment is key in enjoying the

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item for a lifetime, and numerous local dealers agree that your first purchase should be guided by that initial spark.

“Start with something you like.

There are so many options to collecting,” says Stephen Dunn, Managing Principal of Dunn & Sonnier Antiques • Flowers • Gifts. “Choose something that you’ll enjoy for years. If you decide to collect a specific style of furniture or period of furniture, be sure you won’t tire of it in 20 years,” he says.

Part of enjoying a piece in the long-term includes considerations for functionality and flexibility. Can the piece serve

more than one function? Can it be moved from room to room?

“I think any collection should begin with pieces that serve a function,” says Shauna Leftwich, Designer at Ashley Hall Interiors. “You should have the ability to move the pieces from room to room should you ever relocate or redecorate. Items that can be repurposed to do many jobs are the best.”

Some examples of repurposing include transforming an old linen press or armoire into a bar cabinet or placing a larger armoire in a house that lacks closet space but that has high ceilings able to accommodate taller pieces.

“They should be pieces of good quality that will be able to withstand daily use,” adds Leftwich.

Ann Koerner of Ann Koerner Antiques recommends new collectors consider both their lifestyle and the style of their house, as antique furniture should be compatible with both.

“Your rooms should be an expression of you, so make sure you really like what you buy.

It will make your rooms really personal and meaningful,” she says. A little research can go a long way, and cracking a book can be helpful for discerning taste as well as familiarizing oneself with periods and styles.

“Look at shelter magazines and style books, and make copies of rooms that appeal to you. Keep a folder of pictures of your favorite rooms,” says Koerner. Mixing the old with the new is an important factor to consider, so she recommends buying pieces that will mix well with modern sofas and modern upholstered chairs. Magazines and books can help guide in that process as well with examples of antiques complemented by clean-lined, modern pieces.

Just as important as researching styles and possibilities is researching antique stores and dealers, says Michiel Dop of Dop Antiques.

“A lot of younger people think antiques have to be pricey, and that can be true if you go to certain places. Many times, though, I think antiques can be less expensive than new items, and they will last a lot longer,” says Dop. While some dealers cater mainly to high-end clients, others have a variety of items that range in price. According to Dop, it’s important to remember that every style of antique has made a comeback – and some made comebacks 100 years ago.

“A Louis XV table and chair can be from either the 1700s or 1900s. You can buy a 100-yearold antique that costs a lot less than one that is 300 years old,” he says.

Knowing about reproductions is an important aspect of the hunt and can help prevent a misinformed purchase.

“As long as people have been collecting there have been people reproducing. So you may see an 18th century piece for one

price and then see another very similar piece for much less,” says Stephen Dunn. “If you just want the look then buy the one you like. If you’re trying to build a collection for investment then buy the oldest and best.”

While the word “antiques” for some is synonymous with furniture, it’s important to remember that antiques encompass a number of items – jewelry, china, silver, clocks, artwork, tools and more.

Beginning an antique collection

dop antiques

doesn’t have to begin with a centuries-old hutch or an early American four-post bed.

“I started my collection 40 years ago with snuff boxes for a few hundred dollars,” says Beth Claybourn of Beth Claybourn Interiors. “I found the best quality within my budget and eventually began purchasing tables, bronzes, paintings and graduated to antique furniture pieces,” she says.

Claybourn recommends new collectors start with small items

within their budget. While she loves collecting silver, she notes that it requires polishing and maintenance over time. In addition to buying what you love, she says, be mindful of any care that will be needed.

Care is an important consideration when purchasing antique jewelry, and according to Hope at Hope Goldman Meyer Fine Jewelry (located inside of Empire Antiques), not all jewelry is cleaned in the same manner.

“Learn how to care for your jewelry, whether old or new.

It’s not one-size-fits-all with cleaners,” she says. As to beginning an antique jewelry collection, “Start with the basics like a diamond ring, earrings or a strand of pearls. Then you can get into colored gemstones and even naturally colored green, blue, silver and gold South Sea pearls,” says Hope.

Visual art – whether fine or folk – can also transform a home and shouldn’t be overlooked as a great starting point.

Ann Koerner believes art is “essential” and even “paramount in the making of a beautiful room.”

When purchasing art, Marie Louise de la Vergne, Partner at Matthew Clayton Brown, reiterates what many say about furniture: “Buy the best pieces you can afford in the style you like.” Unlike antique furniture, however, which is seldom labeled, de la Vergne recommends buying artwork that’s signed or attributed because it’s more likely to increase in value than unsigned or unattributed works, which may only have decorative value.

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Empire Antiques & Hope Goldman Meyer Fine Jewelry 3617 Magazine St. 897-0252 EmpireAntiques.net HGMJewelry.com Dunn & Sonnier Antiques • Flowers • Gifts New Location: 3433 Magazine St. 524-3235 DunnAndSonnierAntiques.com

hope goldman meyer fine jewelry

Matthew Clayton Brown specializes in private brokerage buying and selling as well as appraisals and collection management. One common mistake that de la Vergne sees collectors make is acquiring objects they think will appreciate in value but that they don’t actually like.

The other most common mistake – echoed by nearly all of these local experts – is beginning

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a collection by shopping online.

The room for error and scams is simply too high. Buy from someone reputable, they say.

Always do your research and avoid buying on a whim. When you find a piece you like, find out as much as possible about it rather than buying it on impulse.

“You really have to trust who you’re buying from,” says Nancy Napoli. “You should see it [in person] and feel it in the

beginning. A collection should start slow,” she says.

The antique world is full of mystery, beauty and even a little enchantment, and according to area dealers, finding the right piece means finding that feeling of wonder.

One should take their time, take care and take it all in. Even the dust, offers Michael Dop. In the world of antiques, a little dust can be a very good sign.

Ashley Hall Interiors 832 Howard Ave. 524-0196 AshleyHallInteriors.com Ann Koerner Antiques 4021 Magazine St. 899-2664 AnnKoerner.com Dop Antiques 300 Jefferson Highway 373-5172 DopAntiques.com Beth Claybourn Interiors 401 Tchoupitoulas St. 342-2630 BethClaybournInteriors.com Matthew Clayton Brown 522-5058 MClaytonBrown.com

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Gary Rucker, left, and Sean Patterson were "The Producers" in September at Rivertown Theatres; photo courtesy Rivertown Theatres, by John Barrois. saintcharlesavenue.com | 59

ONSTAGE // front & center

Adieu, Mid-City Theatre What’s in a name?

Mary Alice Sandberg & Walker Babington in "Dithyrambos" during Fringe Festival 2014

Chekov re-imagined

Faux Real, for sure The festival formerly known as Fringe is gearing up for its first appearance under a new name. The Faux/Real Festival of Arts, Nov. 4 through 22, will offer three weeks of cutting-edge performances, readings and competitions, along with food and beverage tastings.

Among dozens of other local and national acts, marquee performances will include the New Orleans Opera Association’s “Die Fledermaus” at the Mahalia Jackson Theater and “Terminator: The Musical” at The Old Marquer Theatre.

The NOLA Project will perform its hilarious “Clown Bar” at the Little Gem Saloon.

Also look for readings at Cafe Faux/Real, at the corner of North Rampart Street and Elysian Fields.

Featuring dozens of shows and hundreds of performers, the Faux/Real Festival will be centered on St. Claude Avenue between Elysian Fields and Franklin avenues, with food, street performances, a central box office and information center.

Secondary stages will be announced in Central City, Mid-City and other neighborhoods.

Faux/Real Executive Director Ben Mintz says the rich mix of local arts and talent provides ample opportunities “to show the world the incredible creative products coming out of the Crescent City.”

See fauxrealneworleans.com or facebook.com/fauxrealnola for more information.

Fresh from its September fundraiser at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, innovator Goat in the Road Productions is working on an adaptation of a much-loved work.

The company plans to present its interpretation soon of a Chekhov classic in “Uncle Vanya: Quarter Life Crisis.” Watch for more details at GoatInTheRoadProductions.org and check back for the young playwright’s festival called Play/ Write in May.

The surge in commercial and artistic activity along St. Claude Avenue in recent years is worth celebrating, in the view of theater veteran Jim Fitzmorris, which is why he recently paid tribute to the avenue by rebranding a local stage.

The Marigny Theater, as the “back stage” at the AllWays Lounge & Theatre was known for some time, now is The Theatre at St. Claude, Fitzmorris announced recently. He said the name aims “to reflect not only the venue’s actual location on St. Claude Avenue, but also the energy contained on the street.”

Fitzmorris and his brother, Ryan Fitzmorris, who are the producers at Broken Habit Productions, point to the growth of eateries, shops and entertainment venues along St. Claude, a street that Jim Fitzmorris says “fuses elements of the city’s distant past and its hopeful future.”

Audiences at the theatre should expect “scandalous laughter and a good scare,” he says. He launched the rebranded stage in August with a production of David and Amy Sedaris’ “Book of Liz.” See brokenhabitproductions.com or call 504-638-6326 for more information.

Proprietor Fred Nuccio held on as long as he could, but his lease finally ran out last summer and he closed the doors of Mid-City Theater, which during its short life became a popular drawing card near Bayou St. John and the American Can apartment building.

“We’ve been a live theatre in New Orleans for a few wonderful years,” Nuccio’s right-hand gal Su Gonczy says in a message on the venue’s website.

“If you know of a space with parking that might suit us, please contact FredNuccio@yahoo.com,” she adds.

Su, meanwhile, has undertaken her own journey of local exploration via her personal blog. See sugonczy.wordpress.com to follow her adventures.

On stage and in the news The fall season has launched in performance venues in and around New Orleans, and the lineup of drama, comedy, music and musical theatre

means that months of great entertainment lie ahead.

Flip through the following pages for hints and highlights of what’s to come. Take a

60 | St. Charles Avenue October 2014

look at the brief profiles for capsules on local theatres and performance organizations, and check the organizations’ websites for updated details.

Be sure to arrive for shows by curtain time so you don’t miss a moment of what the city’s top theater and music professionals have to offer.

Kathy Finn Editor OnStage@RenPubLLC.com

photo courtesy faux real, by Michelle Nicolette Kowalski

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ONSTAGE

THE RETURN OF GRANDEUR

LEFT: Aimée Hayes and Trey Burvant star in Southern Rep’s “Stage Kiss.” RIGHT: The Orpheum Theater

Southern Rep season launches with a laugh I just love kicking off the season with a

comedy,” Aimée Hayes says, reflecting on the fall lineup at Southern Repertory Theatre. The fact that the first play of the season was written by one of her favorite playwrights is icing on the cake, she says.

Hayes, who is artistic director of Southern Rep, has previously directed two works by Sarah Ruhl, a MacArthur Fellowship-winning writer with a long string of highly regarded plays to her name. This time, though, Hayes is not working off-stage, but on, playing the role of “She” in Ruhl’s romantic comedy “Stage Kiss.”

Under the direction of Jason Kirkpatrick, “Stage Kiss” tells the story of an “older” actress who has not been in a play for 10 years and then gets cast in a 1930s melodrama opposite the man who was her first real-life true love.

The uncomfortable situation sets the stage for this “play within a play,” and “it’s just hilarious,” Hayes says.

She thinks the work provides a suitable kick-start to one of Southern Rep’s strongest seasons to date. The play runs through Oct. 10 at Ashé Power House,

62 | St. Charles Avenue October 2014

the new theater at Ashé Cultural Arts Center at 1731 Baronne St. Southern Rep has been without a permanent home since 2012, when it lost its lease on its long-time space in the Canal Place shopping center.

Since then, Hayes has continued to present full seasons of works on various stages around the city.

Following “Stage Kiss,” Southern Rep will present “Song of a Man Coming Through” at First Grace United Methodist Church on Canal Street.

Featuring stage, film and television veteran Lance Nichols (“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” HBO’s “Treme,” Netflix’s “House of Cards,” “NCIS: New Orleans), this work is the true story of convicted murderer Earnest Knighton Jr. and the priest, lawyer and paralegal who reluctantly became his advocates.

In real life, that priest was Joe Morris Doss, and Doss and his son Andrew Doss are the writers who developed the play in fulfillment of a promise to tell Knighton’s story.

Along with Nichols, the cast includes Robert Doqui, Mike Harkins, John Neisler and others who create

an intense theatrical experience that’s interwoven with gospel music and second lines. Hayes directs the world premiere, which runs Nov. 7-21.

For the final two productions of its main-stage season, Southern Rep moves to the Robert E. Nims Theater at University of New Orleans, where it will present “Orpheus Descending”(“A sexy, steamy stranger comes to a small southern town and complications ensue,” Hayes quips), and “Colossal,” the moving story of a college football player who suffered a spinal injury.

The latter work is actually broken into four “quarters” and brings both football players and modern dance artists to the stage, Hayes says.

Southern Rep will also present a “Lagniappe” production of “A Christmas Carol,” featuring Spud McConnell, at the UNO theater.

In addition, the ongoing soap-drama “Debauchery,” by Pat Bourgeois, will be presented this season at the Theater at St. Claude, which will also host Southern Rep’s monthly “PlaySlam” of six 10-minute plays written on a moment’s notice.

For a full decade, New Orleans was without one of the grandest dames of local stages after the Orpheum Theater suffered extensive damage from the flood that followed Hurricane Katrina.

But with a new owner, more than a year of work and the injection of $13 million, the splendor of the historic 1918 theater has been completely restored.

Tipitina’s owner and Tipitina’s Foundation co-founder Roland von Kurnatowski is the benefactor behind the return of the stunning 1,500-seat venue, which opened in September. He expects the Orpheum will host a variety of concerts and other events, but its anchor tenant will be – as it previously was for many years – the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

Audiences of the LPO, which has rotated among several venues, including the Mahalia Jackson Theater for Performing Arts, during the past 10 years, will likely delight in the orchestra’s sound in the Orpheum, whose acoustics are particularly well suited to symphonic sound.

Under the direction of Carlos Miguel Prieto, the LPO will continue to regularly visit a few of the other venues where it developed a loyal following after Katrina, but will likely feel most at home within the majestic walls of the Orpheum.

photo courtesy southern rep; photo courtesy orpheum theater, by james shaw

ONSTAGE

LEFT: Maxwell Williams RIGHT: Marigny Opera House

Le Petit looks ahead While it holds the title of New Orleans’

oldest stage, the theater that stands just off Jackson Square in the French Quarter has for some years struggled to find itself.

The financial and management troubles that had been brewing at Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carré were widely known by the time the theater cancelled what remained of its season in late 2010 and closed its doors.

Disputes over how to put the theater back on its feet simmered through the next few years until the board finally signed an agreement with restaurateur Dickie Brennan, allowing him to open a restaurant in half of the building in return for carrying out $1 million in theater renovations.

Le Petit reopened in mid-2013 and began staging a lineup of drama, comedy and musical theater. A year later it turned another important corner by hiring new artistic management.

Maxwell Williams signed on as artistic director in late 2014, and in October he launches his first full season at Le Petit.

Williams came to New Orleans after three years as associate artistic director of Hartford Stage in Connecticut. He previously had associate directed both Broadway and off-Broadway productions, and was director of concert operations for Manhattan Concert Productions.

In his new role he looks forward to engaging with the

community and bringing together the right mix of talent to deliver a quality theater experience.

“I’m in this for the possibility of experiencing a real moment of beauty with a group of creative people,” he says.

Williams says audiences can expect a “devotion to the American classics” at Le Petit, along with premieres of new works. The season kicks off with Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town” (through Oct. 18).

“The reason I chose it is because it is my favorite play,” Williams says, adding that he hopes to use “Our Town” to spark conversations about what theater means to New Orleans and what the

community expects from Le Petit.

“The mandate for me and the new team here is to thoroughly professionalize the theater,” he says, noting that Le Petit has also brought in Katie Hallman as managing director.

Board members want Le Petit to develop a deeper reach and stronger bonds in the community in order to expand the audience, he says.

One of his goals is to increase the diversity of players on Le Petit’s stage through “color-blind” casting that better represents the makeup of the local community. He says “Our Town” will reflect that goal.

Le Petit will follow Wilder with an adaptation of Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye” in December and “Sleeping Beauty” in January.

The adaptation of the fairy tale as presented by Le Petit will take the form of “Panto,” a popular British holiday tradition that Williams says has its roots in 16th century Commedia dell’arte.

“I fell in love with the form when I was in college,” Williams says, adding that he thinks audiences will love the “ribald undercurrent” and abundant double entendres in the work.

Later in the season Le Petit will complement the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival with a presentation of “The Glass Menagerie,” and will wrap up in the spring with “A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum.”

As his first season at Le Petit unfolds, Williams likely will begin laying the groundwork for season two. “There will probably be some more adventurous plays coming, but mostly we just want to do wonderful plays that are deep and celebrate theater,” he says.

Classic beauty in the Marigny A few years ago, few could have envisioned such a splendid rebirth of the former Holy Trinity Catholic Church on St. Ferdinand Street.

Today, fully restored to its 19th century stature, the building is the home of Marigny Opera

House, which is dedicated to hosting performing arts as well as community gatherings, celebrations and weddings.

Locals Scott King and Dave Hurlbert purchased the building after the parish relocated to another site, and

they presented it as a nonprofit resource for the community.

Performing artists and community organizations pay no rent for use of the space, and ticket revenue from public performances is split between the artists and the Marigny

photo courtesy le petit theatre. photo courtesy ma rigny opera house, by Pompo Bresciani.

Opera House Foundation.

The site has become home to the new Marigny Opera Ballet, directed by Spencer Doyle and Hurlbert.

In time for the holidays, the ballet will present Christmas Concerto (Dec. 10-13), a

full-length work to the music of Corelli and Handel.

The venue has also hosted musical concerts and offers a monthly jazz performance series.

See marignyoperahouse.org for more details.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 63

ONSTAGE // profiles

Saenger Theatre 1111 Canal St. // New Orleans (800) 218-7469 // saengernola.com

The majestic Saenger Theatre is a home on the road for Broadway musical companies and a host of big-name entertainers that this season includes Jackson Browne, Jerry Seinfeld, Diana Krall and Joe Bonamassa. See the full lineup on the website.

Upcoming: Masters of Illusion (Oct. 11). Believe

the impossible as the hit television series breaks out of the box and comes to the stage.

“So You Think You Can Dance” (Oct. 19).

The hit show now in its 12th season brings its top 10 finalists to the city.

“Cinderella” (Oct. 27-Nov. 1). Rodgers

and Hammerstein’s musical still delights audiences with a contemporary take on the classic tale.

Neil deGrasse Tyson (Nov. 10-11). An

astrophysicist brings science and a great deal more to the stage with an amazingly accessible presentation.

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” (Dec. 29-Jan. 3). A smash hit on Broadway is

sure delight local audiences as well.

“Motown the Musical” (Jan. 19-24).

The American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to heavyweight music mogul.

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts

Southern Repertory Theatre

Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carré

325 Minor St. // Kenner (504) 461-9475 // rivertowntheaters.com

New Orleans // Box Office: (504) 522-6545 // southernrep.com

616 St. Peter St. // New Orleans (504) 522-2081 // lepetittheatre.com

Another blockbuster season kicked off with “The Producers” at the beautiful theaters by the river, under the direction of Gary Rucker and Kelly Fouchi.

A crown jewel of local theater continues to draw audiences interested in quality drama presented professionally under the artistic direction of Aimée Hayes.

Check the website for updated times and locations.

Rejuvenated and still in its prime location just off Jackson Square in the French Quarter, the theater offers a season of fresh performances under artistic director Maxwell Williams.

Upcoming:

“Our Town” (Oct. 2-18). Maxwell Williams directs Thornton Wilder’s masterpiece that tells of two intertwined families and the small town of Grover’s Corners. Local history gives the production a captivating freshness.

Upcoming: “The Addams Family” (Nov. 6-22). The

lovable family of creepy kooks is alive and funnier than ever in a new musical comedy by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice.

“Sweet Charity” (Jan. 15-31). Terrific choreography enlivens this tender and poignant, yet funny musical, directed

by Gary Rucker.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” (March 4-20). Making a

return visit after a well-received run in 2009, the fast-paced and wildly funny tale is unforgettable.

"How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" (May 6-22). Big business

means big laughs in a lampoon of life on the corporate ladder.

"The Wizard of Oz" (July 14-24). Click your heels together and join the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion and Dorothy on the yellow brick road.

Check the website for details of other upcoming shows.

See the website for the full lineup and purchase tickets online at BroadwayInNewOrleans.com or by calling 800-218-7469.

IMAGE: Dancing with the Stars: Live! photo by Erika Goldring

64 | St. Charles Avenue October 2014

IMAGE: “dirty rotten scoundrels”

“Stage Kiss” (through Oct. 10). This

regional premiere of Sara Ruhl’s drama is directed by Jason Kirkpatrick, featuring Trey Burvant, Aimée Hayes, Richard Hutton, and more. At Ashé Power House, 1731 Baronne St. “Song of a Man Coming Through” (Nov. 4-6). The world premiere of the Joe

Morris Doss and Andrew Doss features an all-start cast including Robert Doqui and Lance Nichols, in telling the true Louisiana story of convicted murderer Earnest Knighton Jr. At First Grace United Methodist Church, 3401 Canal St., New Orleans.

“Orpheus Descending” (March 12-April 2). In partnership with the Tennessee

Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival this is a re-imagining of the Orpheus myth. At University of New Orleans, Robert E. Nims Theatre.

“Colossal” (June 4-18). After suffering a catastrophic injury on the football field, a star player faces greater challenges than just his physical recovery. At University of New Orleans, Robert E. Nims Theatre.

IMAGE: Left to right, Trey Burvant, John Neisler and Aimee Hayes star in Southern Rep’s “Stage Kiss.”

Upcoming:

“The Bluest Eye” (Dec. 4-20). This

theatrical adaptation of Toni Morrison’s classic novel brings the poignant story of an 11-year-old girl’s struggle to be loved in the face of ridicule and abuse, revealing the crippling toll of racism on a small Ohio town.

“Sleeping Beauty” (an American Panto) (Jan. 15-Feb. 14). In a world premiere

adaptation, comedy meets Carnival in a feast for the senses. Recommended for children of all ages.

“The Glass Menagerie” (March 18-April 3). The Tennessee Williams play that

marked a turning point in American theatre brought a radical new lyricism to Broadway. Timeless and compelling, it remains a moving and exquisite drama.

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” (May 20-June 5). The

Stephen Sondheim musical farce based on the plays of Plautus closes the season with a joyous romp through Rome.

IMAGE: “HAIR” actress Idella Johnson

Anthony Bean Community Theatre

Jefferson Performing Arts Society

1333 South Carrollton Ave. New Orleans // (504) 862-7529 anthonybeantheater.com

6400 airline drive // Metairie Box Office: (504) 885-2000 jpas.org

Founder and Artistic Director Anthony Bean dedicates the organization to developing young talent and providing a stage where novices and professional actors may work together. The situations and characters of the productions reflect issues in the New Orleans community, past and present.

Presenting the 38th season, now in the beautiful new Jefferson Performing Arts Center, Artistic Director Dennis Assaf offers a line-up of shows sure to excite audiences from around the region. The organization also continues to offer performances at Teatro Wego on the West Bank.

Bean launched the current season with August Wilson’s “Fences” in September and follows with a lively musical production.

Upcoming:

Upcoming:

“Rigoletto” (Oct. 23-25). Verdi’s tragic

story is also a beautiful tale of love.

“Sister Act” (Dec. 4-13). The feel-good

“Simply Irma” (Nov. 6-15). Grammy-

musical comedy will keep audiences jumping.

winning New Orleans entertainer Irma Thomas plays herself in a musical production that documents the pitfalls and successes of her dramatic career.

“The Nutcracker” (Dec. 19-20). The holiday classic features the JPAS Symphony Orchestra.

Sing along and dance in the aisles to her many hits, including “It's Raining,” “Ruler of my Heart,” “Hip Shaking Mama,” “I Wish Someone Would Care” and more.

“The Light in the Piazza” (Jan. 22-31).

The delightful musical follows a Southern woman and her beautiful daughter to Italy.

“Mary Poppins” (March 11-20).

“A Christmas Carol” (Dec. 11-20). Bean

puts a New Orleans twist on the classic tale, presented by students from his afterschool program, for children ages 10-17.

ABCT City Choir 4 Peace will hold choir auditions for youth ages 10 to 21 on Jan 19. Call 504-427-8774 to register for the Vocal Approaches training program.

Everyone’s favorite nanny takes the stage.

Teatro Wego 177 Sala Ave., Westwego: Upcoming: “Ain’t Got No Home” (Oct. 2-11).

“Hello Josephine” (Nov. 7-22).

“The Amorous Ambassador” (Feb. 19-March 6).

IMAGE: Alfred Aubry as Jenkins and Harold X. Evans as Mr. Parker

IMage: nutcracker

saintcharlesavenue.com | 65

ONSTAGE // profiles

The Civic Theater

The Joy Theater

The Orpheum Theater

Ashé Power House

510 O’Keefe Ave. // New Orleans (504) 272-0865 // civicnola.com

1200 Canal St. // New Orleans (504) 528-9569 // thejoytheater.com

129 Roosevelt Way // New Orleans (504) 274-4870 // orpheumnola.com

1731 Baronne St. // New Orleans (504) 569-9070 // ashecac.org

A beautifully restored theater that dates to 1906 now features advanced technology and a greatly enhanced audience experience. The diverse lineup is offered by The Bowery Presents.

Renovated to its original art deco grandeur, including the iconic marquee, the Joy is conveniently located on the Canal streetcar line in downtown New Orleans, within walking distance of the French Quarter.

The nearly century-old Beaux Arts theater in the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District has at long last come back to life in the hands of Roland Von Kurnatowski. One of the few remaining vertical-hall designs in the country, the Orpheum, built in 1918, has hosted vaudeville acts, films and countless performances by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

Once again the home of the orchestra, the theater also offers other musical performances.

Efforts of Grace, Inc./Ashé Cultural Arts Center recently partnered with Gulf Coast Housing Partnership to open this addition to the Ashé Cultural Arts Center Campus in Central City. Theater consultant John Grimsley worked with Ashé director Carol Bebelle to develop a lofty, well-equipped, 200-seat theater with an art gallery lobby and spacious dressing rooms.

Upcoming: “Preservation Hall Ball” (Oct. 3).

Upcoming:

George Ezra (Oct. 7).

Joe Jackson – Fast Forward Tour (Oct. 14). Brilliant music by a singer and

Ghost with Purson (Oct. 8).

instrumentalist with an affinity for Duke Ellington.

Moon Taxi with The Lonely Biscuits (Oct. 10).

Drive By Truckers (Oct. 17).

Home Free (Oct. 13).

Who’s Bad – The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute (Oct. 16).

Mac Demarco with Alex Calder, Walter TV (Oct. 17).

Mastodon with Corrosion of Conformity (Oct. 31).

Upcoming: Odesza (Oct. 30). A brilliant duo with

striking voices.

Suicide Girls (Nov. 8). Sexiest show on

the planet.

STS9 (Nov. 19). Instrumental electronic

rock.

The Dandy Warhols (Nov. 14).

King Diamond with Exodus (Nov. 15).

Mac Miller + Tory Lanez + Michael Christmas (Nov. 28). Skillful rhymes and

Shakey Graves with Wild Child (Nov. 24).

humorous themes mark this hip hop performance.

Kim Russo (Dec. 5).

Dwight Yoakam (Oct. 10).

Upcoming: “Stage Kiss” (through Oct. 10).

Sinatra 100 (Oct. 23). Saluting the

singer with performances by Kermit Ruffins, John Boutte, Jeremy Davenport, Clint Johnson, Leif Pederson, Phillip Manuel and a special guest. Conducted

by David Torkanowsky, hosted by Harry Shearer.

“The Wizard of Oz” (Nov. 6-7). The

thrilling classic movie is presented with a live orchestration by the LPO. Holiday Spectacular (Dec. 12-13).

Gather the entire family for this musical journey through New Orleans, led by the legendary 610 Stompers and featuring singers, dancers and musicians representing our culturally diverse hometown.

A John Waters Christmas (Dec. 17).

The Power House will host and produce shows, and can also be rented for theater, concerts and other events.

Southern Repertory Theatre presents the regional premiere of this romantic comedy by Sarah Ruhl, featuring Trey Burvant, Aimée Hayes and Richard Hutton in the lead roles.

Long after their disastrous but passionate love affair, two actors are reunited on stage in a 1930s melodrama. The charming play-within-aplay is directed by Jason Kirkpatrick.

Other cast members include Madison Kerth, John Neisler, Matthew Thompson and Kristin Witterschein.

Check the website for updated information on plays, music and events planned at both Ashé Power House and Ashé Cultural Arts Center.

Soul Revival The music of Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder presented by Ellis Hall.

The Music of ABBA (May 14). Performed

by the LPO

IMAGE: photo courtesy civic theatre

66 | St. Charles Avenue October 2014

IMAGE: photo courtesy joy theatre

IMAGE: photo courtesy orpheum theater

IMAGE: photo courtesy ashé power house

saintcharlesavenue.com | 67

ONSTAGE // classical music performances

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

New Orleans Opera Association

New Orleans Ballet Association

129 Roosevelt way // New Orleans Box office: (504) 523-6530 // lpomusic.com

Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts // New Orleans // Box office: (504) 529-3000, (800) 881-4459 // neworleansopera.org

Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts // New Orleans // Box office: (504) 522.0996 // nobadance.com

Artistic Director Robert Lyall promises a “blockbuster season” in 2015-16, as he leads the organization in presenting opera of the highest musical and artistic caliber.

The central Gulf region’s premiere presenting organization dedicated solely to dance, the association offers another season of main stage and educational programs featuring world-class dance companies and artists.

In its 25th anniversary season, the orchestra has finally returned to the grand venue it long called home until Hurricane Katrina came along in 2005. Back in the newly restored and majestic Orpheum Theater, the LPO remains in the hands of its heroic director and principal conductor, Carlos Miguel Prieto.

The orchestra also will continue to perform concerts at other venues as well. Check the website for many more events and details.

Upcoming: The French Connection (Oct. 22). Featuring pianist

Benedetto Lupo. Mozart’s Symphony No. 31, Ravel’s Piano Concerto, Franck’s Symphony in D minor DvoRák Cello Concerto (Oct. 30). Featuring Alban

Gerhardt.

Wizard of Oz: Movie with Orchestra (Nov. 6).

Mendelssohn Violin Concerto (Nov. 19). Featuring

violinist Paul Huang.

Holiday Spectacular (Dec. 12-13). Featuring the 610

Stompers and much more.

The Firebird (Jan. 8). Featuring Marianna Prjevalskaya.

Carnaval! (Jan. 21) Gluzman Plays Prokofiev (Feb. 19). Featuring violinist

Upcoming: La traviata (Oct. 9, 11). Verdi’s consumptive courtesan

Upcoming:

Violetta returns in a completely new production of this powerful score of love and sacrifice, including such famous arias and grand choruses as “Sempre libera” and the brilliant “Libiamo.”

Twyla Tharp 50th Anniversary Tour (Oct. 24)

Die Fledermaus (Nov. 13, 15). At Prince Orlofsky’s

Dance Theatre of Harlem (Nov. 21) The classically American company makes a triumphant return, bringing bold new forms in a mixed repertoire performance.

masked ball, intrigue and romance reign, elaborate plots are uncorked and by dawn all of the guests are in jail. Filled with colorful polkas, drinking songs, and waltzes, this Viennese operetta masterpiece is a great way to kick off the holiday season.

Dead Man Walking (March 4, 6). From the shocking

Celebrating the American dance icon and her maverick style of mixing modern and classical with a splash of pop culture and humor.

Malpaso Dance Company from Cuba (March 11-12).

Cuba’s newest dance export debuted in New York in 2014 and now brings refreshing, passionate works to the local stage.

opening scene to the searing finale, this opera changes everyone who encounters it. Composed by Jake Heggie with libretto by Terrence McNally, the production is based on Sister Helen Prejean’s 1993 account of her work on death row at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago (April 2). International stars bring the pure magic of this beautiful group to the stage.

Tosca (April 8, 10). Floria Tosca is a fiery diva whose life is equal parts drama and passion, played out against a background of political intrigue. Puccini’s brilliant score accentuates Tosca’s emotional extremes.

Che Malambo from Argentina (May 7). Precision footwork, drumming and whirling boleadoras create a thrilling dance and music spectacle celebrating South American cowboy traditions.

IMAGE: dead man walking

IMAGE: Dance theatre of harlem

Vadim Gluzman.

An American Spring, (March 17). Featuring soloists

performing Schimmel, Copland and Gershwin.

Osorio Plays Brahms (April 15). Featuring Jorge

Federico Osorio.

Beethoven’s Fifth (May 12).

IMAGE: pianist benedetto lupo

68 | St. Charles Avenue October 2014

bev entertaining

By BEV CHURCH

Easy Entertaining Out or at home, fall into fall Now that summer is over and the cooler weather is upon us, why not eat outside?

You can entertain at home or in your favorite neighborhood restaurant!

We have all been traveling this summer, and whenever I get to a new place I collect tablecloths, napkins, artwork – always something fun! I love to incorporate the pieces from our travels into a tablescape.

70 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

Entertaining Out Frankie & Johnny’s is one of our favorite neighborhood restaurants, and the red picnic table outside is perfect for a small party. For this one, we’re having shrimp, raw oysters and fried onion and bell pepper rings to begin.

We decorated the sign that gives you the specials as well as the table. Painted leaf placemats, sunflowers, plumbago and mint

in a dancing diva centerpiece; a folk art alligator; and napkins I found in La Jolla all create a great backdrop for a casual evening.

Entertaining at Home After spraying for mosquitos, you can have guests dine outside in the garden at home.

We started with three different tablecloths that I got in Colorado, and served everything on Vietri leaf chargers topped with

turquoise star plates. As it gets a little cooler, you can add colorful blankets in which guests to wrap themselves.

The centerpiece has orange and pink roses and electric blue delphinium. I used double napkin rings to bring in the yellow and orange to accent the blue napkins. After dinner have s’mores by the fire pit and let guests pick out favorite songs to dance to from the jukebox. n Photos by linda reese bjork

with this ring

By Mallory Lindsly

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Brennan – McLeod One evening Kathryn Claire Brennan and Thomas Gordon McLeod took the streetcar to Commander’s Palace for dinner. While they were walking and chatting, Gordon told Kathryn that his New Year’s Resolution was to marry her.

He then presented her with her grandmother’s engagement ring and the she said “Yes!” 72 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

The McLeods hosted a rehearsal dinner at Ralph’s on the Park to celebrate the union of Kathryn and Gordon the following day. On May 30, 2015, the two wed at Trinity Episcopal Church. With the help of wedding coordinator Susan Zackin and florist Dunn & Sonnier, the church transformed into the perfect backdrop for the happy couple.

After the ceremony, the celebration continued with a reception at Brennan’s Restaurant.

Guests were invited to dine on delicious cuisine provided by Brennan’s while enjoying music by Deacon John. Melissa’s Fine Pastries created both the wedding and groom’s cakes. Photographer Grevy captured every moment from the first kiss until the last guest left.

After the wedding, the couple went to Dubrovnik, Croatia and Barcelona, Spain to celebrate their marriage. After the honeymoon, Kathryn and Gordon settled into their New Orleans home, where Kathryn is a Restaurant Manager for the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group and Gordon is the Director of Land Use and Development for Council District A. n

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Celebrant: Reverend Henry Hudson Wedding gown: Rivini, Town & Country Bridemaids’ dresses: Alfred Sung, Bella Bridesmaid Groom’s and Groomsmen’s attire: Seersucker suits, Joseph A. Bank Wedding band: Adler’s Invitation: Betty Thompkins Hunley Designs Hair: Casey from John Jay Makeup: Naomi from John Jay 1. Thomas Gordon and Kathryn Claire McLeod 2. (Back) Chris Meyer, Tennent Manning, Yancey McLeod III, Paul Leonard, Kristen Brennan, the bride and groom, Yancey McLeod Jr., Margert Willcox, Hugh Willcox III, Robert Swanson, Patrick Brennan, Clint Wallace, (front) Margaret Adler, Shelley Harris, Ella Camburnbeck, Mary Scott McKinnon, Patricia O'Conner, Margaret Jackson, (seated back) Mark Welch, David Clay, Kevin Ferguson, (seated front) Hugh Willcox IV, Jack Willcox, Charles Willcox and Cooper Brennan 3. (Back) Hugh Willcox III, Margaret Willcox, Yancey McLeod the bride and groom, Robin McLeod, Yancey McLeod III, (front) Hugh Willcox IV, Jack Willcox and Charles Willcox 4. Paul Leonard, Kristen Brennan, Ralph Brennan, Kathryn McLeod, Gordon McLeod, Susan Brennnan, Patrick Brennan 5. Ralph Brennan, Susan Brennan, Kathryn McLeod, Gordon McLeod, Robing McLeod, Yancey McLeod Jr.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 73

YOUNG BLOODS

By Lindsay Mack

EcoUrban Travis Cleaver, Landscape Architect & Co-Owner and Demetria Christo, Biologist & Co-Owner EcoUrban is the premier eco-friendly landscaping company in New Orleans.

From rainwater harvesting to edible garden planting, this business utilizes a variety of green techniques to create their beautiful outdoor spaces. As a crucial player in the city’s green scene, it strives to provide the city with quality, environmentally friendly landscaping options.

Seeds of an Idea In the summer of 2007, Travis Cleaver and Demetria Christo

74 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

took a permaculture class in New Orleans. The opportunity arose for them to acquire some equipment and a location to start their own eco-friendly landscaping company. Cleaver was already deeply in love with New Orleans, having moved to the city in 2002.

“New Orleans was the place that we felt we could make biggest impact, and of course the city needed some serious nurturing at that time, less than two years after Hurricane Katrina,” said Christo.

Reaping Rewards Both Cleaver and Christo have found their work with EcoUrban very rewarding.

“For me it’s seeing the landscapes that we install come into their own, especially our earlier projects that have grown so much over the last eight years,” says Cleaver.

“It is so rewarding to see our employees get excited about the ecological benefits of the work that we do,” says Christo. “We always try to foster an understanding of why we do things the eco-friendly way.”

Taking Root In EcoUrban’s beginning, Cleaver and Christo did all the work for the company. They installed plants and bioswales (landscape elements that remove silt and pollution from surface runoff water). They also created accounting systems and developed a business plan.

“But we were scrappy and kept our costs down,” Cleaver says, “allowing the business to grow slowly. Now our company employs eight people!”

Green and Growing Beyond the aforementioned growth: • EcoUrban has installed 24,143 plants in New Orleans in the last eight years.

• EcoUrban also offers Bobcat concrete removal services to reduce street flooding and help recharge New Orleans’ water table.

• All of EcoUrban’s herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers are natural and non-toxic; making them kid- and pet-safe. n

For more information on EcoUrban visit EcoUrbanLLC.com, email contact@ecourbanllc.com or call 322-7025.

cheryl gerber photograph

student activist

By Mallory Lindsly

Taylor Jean Sparacello Archbishop Chapelle High School

“I think it’s important to be involved, because doing community service and volunteering builds a person’s character,” says Taylor Jean Sparacello, a senior at Archbishop Chapelle High School who enjoys being involved in her community through music and singing.

She is the drum major of the Rummel-Chapelle marching band, principle clarinetist in the Symphonic Band and plays lead alto saxophone in the RummelChapelle Jazz Band. She is also a member of the Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra and the New Orleans Volunteer Orchestra.

She volunteers to play clarinet during weekly Mass and special concerts and events at St. Clement of Rome Church.

Sparacello says, “By being part of the music ministry, I’m able to participate in Mass in a deeper way that strengthens my relationship with God. By sharing my God-given talent of music, I feel like I enrich everyone’s Sunday Mass experience.”

Sparacello’s mother, Sheri Hayes Bergeron, inspired her

to become involved within her community. She taught Sparacello that with her many talents comes many responsibilities.

“My mom encourages me to pursue anything I have an interest in,” says Sparacello.

“Without her constant love and support, I would never have reached where I am today.”

By being involved in her community, Sparacello was able to discover interests, friendships and leadership skills.

This past summer, Sparacello took her community service to the road to represent the city of New Orleans as part of the Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra on its 20th anniversary East Coast Tour. The concert in Charleston was dedicated to the shooting at Emmanuel AME Church and all proceeds were donated to the church. The tour then continued onto Williamsburg, Virginia then to Washington, D.C. and then ended with a performance in Carnegie Hall. All concerts donated the proceeds to local churches.

“Performing community service such as this allowed me to collaborate with other great musicians and share my love of music while giving back to the community,” says Sparacello.

When not volunteering, Sparacello enjoys traveling, beach volleyball and dancing. After graduation, she plans to major in biomedical engineering with a concentration in cardiovascular engineering. Through her research efforts Sparacello hopes to positively affect the lives of thousands of people suffering from cardiovascular diseases. n

saintcharlesavenue.com | 75

SHOP TALK

By Mirella Cameran

Hope Goldman Meyer Owner & Jeweler, Hope Goldman Meyer Fine Jewelry

art deco necklace with tassels.

Buying estate jewelry, I’m always guaranteed the best price and I pass that along to my clients.

How does one know whether to buy diamonds or colored stones? Think How did you become a jeweler? When

I was 15 I heard a jeweler speak, and I decided that was the industry I wanted to work in.

What qualifications does a jeweler need? The best thing is to earn

a degree in Gemology. After graduating college, I went to The Gemological Institute of America and did just that.

What’s the most important thing to think about when buying jewelry? Buy the

best quality you can afford and buy what you love!

What’s in vogue right now? Gold, pearls and tassel jewelry are very popular. Recently, I acquired an amazing 18 karat yellow gold,

about your lifestyle; what will you wear? I have silvery grey baroque South Sea pearls that I wear with jeans during the day and at night with fabulous diamond earrings.

What are your favorite items of jewelry? I love my art deco diamond

ring and my emerald and diamond tassel.

Which jewelry designers do you admire?

I love the art deco period: Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Tiffany.

What makes HGM different? I have a personally curated collection of antique, estate and new fine jewelry. You won’t see my pieces anywhere else.

What range to you provide? I can

acquire simple wedding bands to jewelry for the Oscars! n

Hope Goldman Meyer Fine Jewelry, 957-3409, 897-0252, hope@hgmjewelry.com

76 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

cheryl gerber photographs

SHOP TALK

By Mirella Cameran

Stephen E. Metzinger M.D., F.A.C.S. Owner & Lead Physician, Aesthetic Surgical Associates

What is your favorite thing about being a New Orleanian? I was born here; I

love the city and its people.

Why plastic surgery? I was influenced by my parents (both in medical fields), and had a deep desire to help people.

Why did you open your cosmetic practice? I started my career in

academia and literally would do everything from hand surgery to craniofacial to microvascular in the same day. I wanted to be more focused and to have more balance in my personal life.

Do you do other work? Yes. I still do

some cancer reconstruction and craniomaxillofacial trauma.

What advice would you give to men and women seeking cosmetic procedures?

Do your homework and ask lots of questions. Make sure

your plastic surgeon is boardcertified by an ABMS accredited board. Make sure they work in an accredited facility and have hospital privileges.

What do you think makes your practice different? My people! They are all

outstanding.

Why is it important to be triple boardcertified? We understand you are the only doctor in the New Orleans area to have this level of qualification. I

obtained triple board-certification in Plastic Surgery, Facial Plastic Surgery and Head and Neck Surgery-Otolaryngology. I am able to blend the skills of my respective board certifications to achieve remarkable, naturallooking results. Moreover, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received continuous, global recognition and numerous awards for expertise and innovative contributions to aesthetic plastic surgery. n

Aesthetic Surgical Associates, 3223 8th St., Suite 200, Metairie, 309-7061, AestheticSurgical.com

saintcharlesavenue.com | 77

snapshots

by lani griffiths

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1. Jack Leahy, Beth James, Scott James and Greg Morey are pictured at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s annual “Soirée” on April 16 at the beautiful home of Tia and James Roddy. 2. Allison Kendrick and Marilyn Dittmann enjoy “The Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s Soirée for the Richardson Society,” who provide essential support for the Ogden Museum’s education and curatorial activities. 3. Adult literacy students and their teachers display their original artwork, created for the “Learn Til Ya Die” event: Will Willis, Michelle Savard, Emanuell Willis, Lucienne Boyer, Michall Willis, Freddie Boyer, Blade Crabtree and Staphenae Carey 4. Dr. Petrice Sams-Abiodun, Kathleen McCall, John Keller, Kaylee Smith, Jessica Daigle, Candace Weber and Dr. Megan Holt are pictured at the “Learn Til Ya Die,” benefiting The Literacy Alliance of Greater New Orleans.

5. Sterling Anderson is presented with the first place award at the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts sixth annual “Arts Contest Awards Luncheon.” 6. Scholarship award recipients pose at the sixth annual “Arts Contest Awards Luncheon" on April 18. The George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts (in partnership with the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation) announced the winners, who will share $45,000 dollars in college scholarships. 7. Al Copeland Jr., Dr. Ron Gardner and Saints mascot Gumbo celebrate the Al Copeland Foundation’s “Golf Fest,” which raised $56,000 for cancer research to be conducted in New Orleans at the LSU Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC).

78 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

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8. John Besh poses with Byron Bradley and Christian LeBlanc, who received this year’s “Chefs Move!” Scholarship for Culinary Arts and Pastry Arts, respectively. The John Besh and Bride Mayor Scholarship Program’s mission is to diversify kitchen leadership by providing minority applicants the opportunity to become leaders in restaurant kitchens and their communities. 9. Testimonial speaker Lincoln Norwood and wife Patrice Norwood are pictured at “Reach for the Stars Breakfast” hosted by Volunteers of America Greater New Orleans. Volunteers of America is dedicated to helping those in need rebuild their lives and reach their full potential. 10. First NBC CEO Ashton Ryan gave the opening remarks at the “Reach for the Stars” breakfast on May 14. The Reach for the Stars Society is a giving society of individuals, foundations and businesses who have pledged a significant commitment of $1,000 or more over five years to Volunteers of America. 11. Nancy Marsiglia, King Milling and John Pope and Anne Milling are pictured receiving the America's WETLAND Foundation Lifetime Achievement award on behalf of the late Diana Pinckley. The award is given to honor a lifetime of work advocating for and protecting Louisiana's coast and its residents. 12. On May 18, artist Madeline Landry received NOCCA’s Daniel Price Scholarship; Dr. Steve Price is pictured here handing her the award, which is given in memory of Daniel and his accomplishments.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 79

ADVERTISING SECTION

HOME DECOR

Dunn & Sonnier Antiques â&#x20AC;˘ Flowers â&#x20AC;˘ Gifts 3433 Magazine Street (504) 524-3235 Beautiful vintage fern prints, inspired by the work of historic print makers.

Matted and complemented with distressed, painted wood frames.

NOLA Couture 2928 Magazine Street (504) 319-5959 NOLA Couture offers a range of New Orleans inspired home decor including glassware, candles, coasters and more!

80 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

ADVERTISING SECTION

Sotre 3933 Magazine Street (504) 304-9475

Sofas & Chairs 4116 Canal Street (504) 486-9622

Steak knife sets ($165) and carving Kyle Bunting handmade, hair-on, sets ($110) from 100-year-old cowhide pillows with hand-pieced monogram. Bespoke and outstanding, French company Claude Dozorme are perfect hostess, shower or like no other home accessory and wedding gifts. available exclusively at Sotre.

Louisiana Custom Closets 13405 Seymour Meyers Boulevard, Covington (985) 871-0810 Louisiana Custom Closets, represents the pinnacle of quality design, materials and service for all of your home and office organizational and storage needs. So choose your style. Choose your finish. Take your storage space from simply neat to simply fabulous.

Kevin Gillentine Gallery 3917 Magazine Street (504) 891-0509 Reflected Oak: This oil on canvas painting

by Kevin Gillentine showcases the soft muted tones and dreamy atmosphere that makes his paintings so sought after.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 81

AMERICAN HEART SPECIAL SECTION

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by

Let’s Get 1 Done

Join the Fight

For 90 years, heart disease has been the #1 reason we lose our loved ones.

Changing the rank of heart disease is closer than ever.

At the American Heart Association, we want people to experience more of life’s precious moments. It’s why we’ve made better heart and brain health our mission. And together with the community, our volunteers and donors, we’ve made an extraordinary impact. Until there’s a world free of heart disease and stroke, the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association will be here, working to make a healthier, longer life possible for everyone.

Now is the time to change the rank of heart disease and its impact on our lives forever. Let’s rally to get one done. Why? Because life is why. Everyone has a reason to live a healthier, longer life. So, what is your reason?

Each person’s why is different. Maybe it’s walking your daughter down the aisle. Watching that perfect sunset with your spouse. Or simply giving your grandchild a big hug. Ask yourself this, what are those moments, people or experiences that you live for? What brings you joy, wonder and happiness? What is your why in life?

Whatever your why is, hold it close to your heart. When you think about that moment in your life, let it drive you to share the message that heart disease is the number one killer with someone you know. 80% of heart disease is preventable, but if women don’t know it is their biggest threat, they cannot seek preventative care. Help save a life and become a catalyst for healthy living and change.

The American Heart Association challenges you to consider how you can make a difference in the lives of millions impacted by heart disease and stroke each year. Your participation in the Go Red movement can change not only your health but the health of your family, friends, coworkers and neighbors.

The New Orleans American Heart Association will host the annual Go Red for Women luncheon on Thursday, February 25, 2016 at the New Orleans Marriott. The luncheon is chaired by Suzanne Whitaker.

The luncheon will be a rally for awareness and prevention for heart disease. Heart disease has already touched you or someone you love, so help us save a woman’s life and be a part of Go Red for Women New Orleans.

Because the women of New Orleans are unique, the American Heart Association has answered that with a unique silent auction, called “Purseanalities.” The auction will feature purses filled with favorite things of local movers and shakers that will be auctioned off at the luncheon. The items in the purse are at the discretion of the donor and can include items such as restaurant gift certificates, spa treatments, museum passes, jewelry, books, wine and art.

Go Red for Woman is nationally sponsored by Macy’s and locally sponsored by East Jefferson General Hospital, Peoples Health, Paris Parker, LAMMICO, Touro Infirmary and Crescent City Physicians, United Healthcare, Cardio DX, WWL-TV, Entercom Radio, The New Orleans Advocate, St. Charles Avenue Magazine and New Orleans Magazine.

For more information visit neworleansgored.ahaevents.org or visit the New Orleans American Heart Association on Facebook, facebook.com/ AHANewOrleans. Follow the conversation on Twitter and Instagram, #nolagored.

82 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

AMERICAN HEART SPECIAL SECTION

National Wear Red Day The Circle of Red National Wear Red Day® — February 26, 2016 — is our special day to bring attention to heart disease in our community. We encourage everyone to wear red, raise their voices, know their cardiovascular risk and take action to live longer, healthier lives.

Wear Red Day is part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women campaign to increase awareness of heart disease — the leading cause of death for women — and to inspire women to take charge of their heart health. With your help, we can end the No.1 killer of our mothers, sisters, daughters and friends. The grassroots campaign has since grown into a vibrant national movement as more women, men, celebrities, healthcare professionals and philanthropist embrace and elevate the cause of women and heart disease.

The yearlong movement is celebrated at a cornerstone event – New Orleans’ Go Red for Women Luncheon on February 25, 2016. This provides women of all generations with tips and information on healthy eating, exercise and risk factor reduction.

How Can I Participate In Wear Red Day?

Participate in National Wear Red Day by asking your employees wear red on Friday, February 26, 2016. Raise awareness while helping to lower the rate of heart disease in the next generation of women.

Turn Your Work Place RED by lighting the exterior of your building red and sharing our message. Wearing red isn’t just for people. It’s for buildings, bridges, parks and landmarks, too. This year, you can help New Orleans Go Red in a big way by thinking on a grand scale.

Display the RED Dress Window Cling at your business to show your support of the Go Red For Women movement.

HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS SPECIFIC TO WOMEN • Shortness of breath • Pressure or pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen • Dizziness

• Lightheadedness or fainting • Upper back pressure • Extreme fatigue

The Circle of Red and Men Go Red are a dynamic, committed and passionate group of women and men who have the resources to significantly impact the community by providing a personal commitment to help find a cure for heart disease.

The Circle of Red and Men Go Red members are champions for reducing the impact that heart disease has in our lives.

Take a stand against heart disease and join the dynamic group of men and women in the Circle of Red. To viw he current listof Circle of Red and Men Go Red please visit neworleansgored.ahaevents.org

The Next Step

Now that you know that heart disease is the number one killer in New Orleans it is time to take action for your own health and the health of the women in your life. The first step is to make an appointment with your physician to find out your key numbers. These numbers can indicate the risk factors of heart disease.

Some of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, body weight/body mass index and high blood glucose. These numbers can serve as a wake-up call to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle. Testing should occur as follows: Blood pressure – every regular health care visit starting at age 20 Cholesterol – every five years starting at age 20. More often if: total cholesterol is above 200; if you are a man older than 45 or a woman older than 50; if you’re a woman whose HDL is less than 50 or a man whose HDL is less than 40; if you have other cardiovascular risk factors Weight/body mass index – every health care visit starting at age 20 Waist circumference – as needed starting at age 20 Blood glucose – every three years starting at age 45 In addition to knowing your numbers you should also know your personal family history. If know you have a family history of heart disease, it’s important to share that information with your doctor. This will help cue your physician into your genetics, making him or her more aware of additional risk factors.

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AMERICAN HEART SPECIAL SECTION

Leading the Change The American Heart Association knows that in order to get one done, we need to transform our community into a culture of health. A culture of health is an environment where the healthy choice is the default choice. Diet and exercise are controllable risk factors that can make an enormous impact on a heart healthy lifestyle.

As we work towards a culture of health, the American Heart Association recognizes that we cannot get there alone. We work alongside sponsors and volunteers who are just as committed to changing New Orleans to be a healthier community. If the majority of heart disease is preventable than we need to control the risk factors that we can.

In order to get there we need to create groundswell through passionate people who can share the message.

Patty Riddlebarger I support the American Heart Association because heart disease is the leading killer of women. I know that my personal involvement and commitment is saving lives through awareness and research. This is an important cause in our community because this devastating killer can be prevented and education is the key.

My family is why.

Valerie Englade I support the American Heart Association because of their strong educational stance on cardiovascular health. Knowledge is power- and the key to good health. Knowing your family history is so important to take responsibility for your own health.

Women must use their collective voice to educate other women on the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all heard the tragic stories of young women dying because they thought their health concern could be addressed at a later time. Knowing how your personal lifestyle choices effect your health gives you the upper hand in living a long and healthy life.

My grandfather is why.

Cindy Nuesslein As a healthcare provider, I know that an ounce of prevention leads to a longer and better quality life of heart health.

Women must be better informed about their risk and the importance of knowing their numbers. Heart health needs to become a priority for women in our community because prevention can have a profound change on the estimated 43 million women in the U.S. are affected by heart disease.

Prevention is why.

Donna Klein I am personally committed to the American Heart Association because heart disease is so prevalent in Louisiana. Every dollar that the American Heart Association raises in Louisiana stays in Louisiana to reduce the incidence of heart disease and stroke. Everyone has either been or will be touched by heart disease or stroke. We need to educate women that heart disease and stroke donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just strike men. 1 in 3 women die of heart disease. Women need to know the risk factors and the warning signs that are unique to them.

Living a good and healthy life is why.

84 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

Suzanne Whitaker, 2016 Go Red Chair It is important for women to know the signs and symptoms of heart disease because 90 percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease. 80 percent of heart disease is preventable with simple and reasonable lifestyle choices, which includes a heart-healthy diet and regular exercise. It is through awareness and education that we can change the health outcomes of the women if New Orleans.

My mother is why.

performing arts

By Lauren LaBorde

Performance Calendar october Through October 4 My Fair Lady

9 and 11 La Traviata

The classic musical based on George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion follows a Cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons to pass as a lady. Jefferson Performing

The New Orleans Opera Association opens the season with Verdi’s three-act opera featuring famous arias and grand choruses including “Sempre libera” and “Libiamo.”

Arts Center, 6400 Airline Drive, Metairie, Information, JPAS.org Through October 10 Stage Kiss

In Sarah Ruhl’s comedy, two actors are reunited on stage long after their love affair. Southern

Rep, Ashe Power House Theater, 1731 Baronne St., 522-6545, SouthernRep.com 2-4 Orfeo

New Orleans Opera Association, Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St., 529-3000, NewOrleansOpera.org 22-November 8 Clown Bar

In Adam Szymkowicz’s comedy, which is much more an immersive experience than a traditional play, invites audiences to dress up as clowns or don clown noses and enter a seedy clown underworld. The NOLA

The Marigny Opera House ballet presents an original full-length work by Maya Taylor with a commissioned score by local composer Tucker Fuller. The ballet recounts the ancient Greek myth of Orfeo and Eurydice.

Project, The Little Gem Saloon Ramp Room, 445 S. Rampart St., 267-4863; LittleGemSaloon.com

2-11 Ain’t Got No Home

The iconic dancer and choreographer, whose work includes the Broadway musical Movin’ Out, embarks on a national tour with a hand-picked company.

The show features new works, including some set to music by New Orleans jazz and blues piano great Henry Butler. New

Marigny Opera House, 725 St. Ferdinand St., 948-9998, CrippleCreekPlayers.org

Written and Directed by Butch Caire, the New Orleans-set jukebox musical is the continuation of JPAS’ other original, Blueberry Hill. Teatro Wego! 177

Sala Ave., 885-2000; JPAS.org 2-18 Our Town

Incorporating the history of New Orleans, and particularly Le Petit Théâtre for inspiration, the production is a refreshed take on the Thornton Wilder stage classic. Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux

Carré, 616 St. Peter St., 522-2081, LePetitTheatre.com

24 Twyla Tharp 50th Anniversary

Orleans Ballet Association, Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin St., 522-0996, NOBAdance.com

27-November 1 Cinderella

The lush production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s take on the classic story has a contemporary feel. Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal

St., 525-1052, SaengerNOLA.com

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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.

Tricia King

Licensed Louisiana & Mississippi Realtor

Specializing in luxury, historic and investment real estate.

Call me to find out how our exclusive, luxury marketing tools can benefit you.

TriciaKing.com • 504.722.7640

86 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

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 1004 Falcon Road.....................SOLD...................$5,600,000 3 Audubon Place ......................SOLD...................$5,250,000 16 Audubon Place ....................SOLD...................$4,500,000 295 Walnut Street .....................SOLD...................$3,990,000 8 La Salle Place .........................SOLD...................$3,650,000 4831 St. Charles Avenue..........SOLD...................$3,000,000 525 Madison..............................SOLD...................$2,800,000 1527 Sixth Street......................................................$2,795,000 1776 State Street .......................SOLD...................$2,300,000 3 Poydras Street #9E/F ..............SOLD...................$2,300,000 906 S. New Hampshire Avenue...............SOLD...................$2,199,000 841 Barracks Street ..................SOLD...................$1,850,000 1427 Eighth Street ...................SOLD...................$1,850,000 7 Rosa Park................................SOLD...................$1,800,000 1518 First Street .......................SOLD...................$1,750,000 2600 Gay Lynn Drive .............................................$1,730,000 1328 Felicity Street ...................SOLD...................$1,700,000 1538 Fourth Street ...................SOLD...................$1,700,000 1415 Cadiz Street ....................SOLD...................$1,700,000 1800 Jefferson ...........................SOLD...................$1,700,000 1732-34 Palmer..........................SOLD...................$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 ....................SOLD...................$1,450,000 1542 Calhoun Street ................SOLD...................$1,450,000 1641 State Street.......................SOLD...................$1,425,000 5726 St. Charles Avenue...........SOLD...................$1,400,000 1205 Philip Street ......................SOLD...................$1,399,000 4917 St. Charles Avenue...........SOLD...................$1,370,000 1413 Philip Street .....................SOLD...................$1,370,000 434 Lakeshore Parkway ..........................................$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 2006 Jefferson Avenue.............SOLD...................$1,100,000 36 Versailles Blvd ....................................................$1,100,000 17 Chateau Palmer ...................SOLD...................$1,085,000 1701 Valence Street ..................SOLD...................$1,075,000 1919 State Street .......................SOLD...................$1,050,000 1221 First Street .......................SOLD...................$1,050,000 1221 Exposition Blvd ..............SOLD...................$1,045,000 3225 Prytania Street .................SOLD...................$1,000,000 1844 State Street .......................SOLD......................$995,000 1022 Webster Street .................SOLD......................$995,000 3447 Camp Street .....................SOLD......................$985,000 45 Savannah Ridge Ln .............SOLD......................$950,000 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 3200 St. Charles Avenue..........SOLD.......................$889,000 6047 Camp Street .....................SOLD......................$850,000 836 State Street .........................SOLD......................$849,000 500 Walnut Street .....................SOLD......................$825,000 5951 Tchoupitoulas..................SOLD......................$815,000 5933 Camp Street .....................SOLD......................$799,000 6131 Coliseum ..........................SOLD......................$795,000 7328 Plum Street ......................SOLD......................$795,000 1443 Calhoun Street ................SOLD......................$789,000 2818 Laurel Street.....................SOLD.......................$775,000 405 Exposition Blvd ............... .SOLD .....................$755,000 630 Eleonore Street..................SOLD.......................$695,000 5349 Prytania Street ................SOLD......................$650,000 282 Audubon Street..................SOLD .....................$599,000 5520-22 Camp Street................SOLD .....................$595,000 5200-02 Coliseum Street ...........................................$550,000 2511 St Charles Avenue #505........SOLD ..............$465,000

849 East Scenic Dr., Pass Christian, MS.....$3,500,000 6257 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge..SOLD ..$2,200,000 71607 Riverside Dr., Covington...................$1,190,000

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new orleans nostalgia

By Seale Paterson

Morgus on his first Mardi Gras Day, 1959. Morgus’ presence at Mardi Gras would continue for more than 50 years. Morgus-themed parade floats have shown up as early as ’77 and as recently as 2009; he appeared on the Krewe of Alla’s 1968 “Monster Mania” doubloon; he guest-starred on MTV as a local character during Mardi Gras coverage in ’87; and a Knights of Morgus parade rolled Uptown in ’97. Even his name was Carnival related: Momus (for the god of ridicule) Alexander (for the biggest egomaniacal in history) Morgus (a blend of morgue and disgusting).

Halloween 1962 saw the premiere of the Morgus movie: The Wacky World of Dr. Morgus, in which Morgus creates an “instantpeople” machine that reduces humans to sand and then back again. Filmed in New Orleans, Chris Owens is featured doing the cha-cha. That same year, Morgus went off the air after a disagreement about personal appearances.

After a brief stint on-air in Detroit, Morgus returned to WWL-TV for another run, from 1965-’67. He was back on the air again from ’70-’71, this time on WDSU-TV. But it was short-lived, and Morgus quit to pursue private interests.

But the legend of Morgus would not fade. Morgus returned to WGNO-TV in 1987-’89 and had a

The Magnificence of Morgus The legend that will not fade Morgus the Magnificent debuted in New Orleans on January 3, 1959, as the host of WWL-TV’s “House of Shock,” which aired late-night science fiction and horror movies. Throughout the films, Morgus would conduct science experiments in his lab with the aid of his executioner sidekick Chumsley, always to undesired and

88 | St. Charles Avenue October 2015

comedic effect. He had wild eyes, crooked teeth, a filthy labcoat and wildly unkempt hair, and he took New Orleans by storm.

During his first year on-air, Morgus was in high demand everywhere, making appearances at schools, theaters, stores and private functions. Ads for Morgus costumes were plentiful

at Halloween and Mardi Gras.

Morgus T-shirts were a big hit at Godchaux’s, and Maison Blanche sold a Morgus hand puppet for $1.98, featuring “rooted hair that can be washed and combed into many imaginative styles.” He also produced an album of his TV theme music and spooky sounds entitled Morgus the Magnificent.

brief syndication deal that placed him in a handful of cities for a few years (and also on Taco Bell trickor-treat bags in ’89). Through the ’90s until present day, Morgus has continued to be variously on and off the air, but has never dropped far from the minds of many New Orleanians. Documentaries have been made, songs have been written and Morgus T-shirts are still great sellers. n

Image appears courtesy of The Historic New Orleans Collection, acc. no. 1994.94.2.1891