WYES hosts Lunch and Learn with Gayle Benson

BY MARLAINE PEACHEY

WYES recently hosted a “Lunch and Learn” at The Greystone in Mandeville, featuring Mrs. Gayle Benson. Although the day cleared into blue skies as the lunch hour approached, the morning fog on the causeway was extremely heavy and Mrs. Benson was warned that she might not be able to cross the bridge. Throwing caution to the wind, however, she carried on, determined to keep her appointment and safely arrived on time to the delight of the many attendees who came to hear her speak.

Gayle was gracious and patient to personally meet all who approached her and took as many pictures as were requested. As the lunch began, Saints & Pelicans Senior Vice President of Communications, Greg Bensel, commented on his position as a Board Member of WYES and spoke of their current projects. Most recently they presented an informational film interviewing victims of human trafficking. It was entitled, “Turning the Tide” and featured First Lady Donna Edwards. He then introduced Mrs. Benson who spoke of her current endeavors, including the Saints, Pelicans, and recent local events.

Gayle Benson was recognized as a seasoned speaker and proven leader in her field as a business professional, sports franchise owner and benevolent contributor to local organizations and non-profits in the entire Gulf South region. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans. She is a board member of the NBA Foundation, the NFL Hall of Fame Committee and is involved in numerous other real estate ventures including automotive dealerships, the Benson Tower Office Building and the Hyatt Regency in New Orleans. She stated that she is eager to learn about environmental, health, social and educational challenges and serves on many boards addressing those issues. Immediately after speaking at Greystone, she left for New York to speak to investors regarding renovations on the St. Louis Cathedral. Ms. Benson keeps a busy schedule, and her ultimate enjoyment is giving back to the community.

Thanks to WYES, the event was engaging and a memorable one. For 66 years, they have been a vital source of education, information and entertainment, as well as earning a reputation for quality PBS programming, award-winning local documentaries and cooking series.

On Thursday, January 4th, tickets go on sale for the WYES Season of Good Tastes, which are wine dinner dates. At each participating restaurant a WYES rep will be present to welcome guests and talk about the wine pairings that go with the meal. The chef will also appear and address the crowd. It’s a great place to meet new friends and enjoy fabulous food. New this year is a participating restaurant on the North Shore called Papillion's.

On January 18th, WYES will also give a travel presentation entitled “France Magnifique” and on January 20th from 1 – 3 p.m. will host “WYES King Cake and Conversation.”

For more information check out their website, WYES.org