St. Charles Avenue December 2014

DECEMBER 2014

Caption: St. Charles Avenue’s 2014 Activists of the Year (seated) Gen Trimble and Dr. Troy Scroggins, and (standing from left) Tommy Westervelt, Kay Kerrigan, Nancy Marsiglia and Sally-Ann Roberts

on the cover

Each year as St. Charles Avenue prepares to choose our Activists of the Year, we consult our ongoing list of possible candidates.

You would think that as we choose six New Orleanians who have given so selflessly of themselves each year that the list would begin to dwindle. But one of the most amazing things about New Orleans and her people is that a list of those who give back only expands – including those who are 18 years old to 80 and beyond.

We are proud to bring you the profiles of and to honor our 2014 Activists Kay Kerrigan, Nancy Marsiglia, Sally-Ann Roberts, Dr. Troy Scroggins, Gen Trimble and Tommy Westervelt for the time, energy and gifts that they have given to the boards, nonprofits, committees, foundations and groups with which they’re associated across the entirety of New Orleans.

Without them and their efforts, our city wouldn’t be the same, so we hope that as you read more about them that their stories will inspire you, as they have us, to strive to achieve and give back to the city that gives so much to us all. n

Photographed by Jeffery Johnston Special thanks to Ella Flower for allowing us the use of her home. saintcharlesavenue.com | 1

contents features 24 Local Leaders

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The Young Leadership Council distinguished 25 community role models with awards for service.

26 Night At the Museum

The Louisiana Children’s Museum turned into a Disco Inferno for its annual benefit.

28 Fish are Friends

Audubon Nature Institute’s nautical nighttime festival of food and fish.

30 With Liberty And...

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”Justice for All Ball” supported The Pro Bono Project with a suave soirée.

32 Sculptures and Spirits

The NOMA Sculpture Garden sprung to life to host local food al fresco.

34 It’s a Bird; it’s a Plane!

Superheroes, villains and partygoers helped catch criminals at Crimestoppers’ costume gala.

36 Mint Juleps & Fine Literature

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The Faulkner Society supported literacy with a celebration of one of New Orleans’ finest authors.

38 Luncheon for Local Wounded Warriors

St. Charles Avenue magazine presented its inaugural “Wine, Dine & Design” tablescapes luncheon.

40 All You Need Is Love

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Fans of The Beatles “Come Together” for a special tribute by WYES.

44 Kol HaKavod

Jewish Family Services hosted a special tribute for Max Nathan Jr.

46 From Generation to Generation Touro honored dedicated individuals with

the Judah Touro Society Award.

48 Raise the Roof Bridge House/Grace House hosted

“Rockin’ with the NOLA Stars V.”

50 Orleans Opulence Save Our Cemeteries is committed to

maintaining our mausoleums.

52 Good Food is the Best Medicine The Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine’s

Dedication Ceremony kicked-off a dinner series.

54 Do What Ya Wanna The inaugural “Preservation Hall Ball” was a

blaring success.

56 Honoring Survivors A patriotic celebration of life by

Cancer Crusaders.

58 Tomorrow’s Trailblazers Children’s Bureau of New Orleans recognizes

those who give hope to troubled youth.

60 Beacon for the Blind Lighthouse Louisiana illuminates a path for

the visually impaired.

62 Under the Starry Sky St. Jude came to the Crescent City to benefit

local patients and groundbreaking research.

42 Toasting to Health

LSUHSC established a professorship in Emeril Lagasse’s name for his contributions to the community.

65 2014 Activists of the Year Kay Kerrigan, Nancy Marsiglia, Sally-Ann Roberts, Dr. Troy Scroggins, Gen Trimble

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and Tommy Westervelt

73 New Year’s Eve A one-stop shop for planning your special night

contents

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in every issue 8

A Note From Bev

10 Making a Difference Raintree Services

12 Skin Deep Razzle Dazzle Them: 15+ secrets of holiday makeup

14 Kids Play A Holiday Ride: Double Decker Bus Tours

16 What’s Hot Jewelry

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18 On the Menu

Embracing Tradition: Owner Barbara Chifici of Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant’s Stuffed Mirlitons

20 The Dish

Yakamein-iac: The cure for whatever ails you

22 The Dish Gift Guide

Gift Well: Holiday gifts for the culinary enthusiast

84 Vintage Wedding

Irene Gillen to Albert E. Briede III: October 20, 1949

86 With This Ring Pennefather – Moses

88 Young Bloods

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Dancing Grounds: Executive Director Laura Stein

89 Student Activist

Christopher Boudreaux: Archbishop Rummel High School

90 Shop Talk

Jess Leigh: Owner and Designer, Jess Leigh Jewels

91 Shop Talk

Cecile Hardy: Owner and Designer, NOLA Couture

92 Snapshots 100 OnStage Calendar 104 Nostalgia Lasting Legend: The legacy of the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair

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New Orleans’ definitive social magazine december 2014 / Volume 19 / Issue 7

Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Sarah George contributing editor Mirella Cameran Beauty Columnist Cat Wall Aschaffenburg Society Columnist Marilee Hovet Associate Editors Lauren LaBorde, Melanie Warner Spencer web Editor Kelly Massicot Intern Shelby Simon advertising senior Account Executive Brittany Brady (504) 830-7248, Brittany@MyNewOrleans.com

Account Executive Kaleigh Porcelli (504) 830-7226, Kaleigh@MyNewOrleans.com

Production/Web Manager Staci McCarty Production DesignerS Ali Sullivan, Monique Di Pietro traffic manager Erin Duhe 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, Š 2014 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for photos or artwork and assumes that all releases have been cleared upon submission to the magazine. St. Charles Avenue is published monthly

by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, La. 70005, (504) 828-1380. It is the policy of this magazine to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

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A NOTE FROM BEV

events

FINISHING THE YEAR RIGHT It is December, the month we get to spotlight our St. Charles Avenue Activists of the Year!

What an honor to feature these six incredible New Orleanians: Kay Kerrigan, Nancy Marsiglia, Sally-Ann Roberts, Dr. Troy Scroggins, Gen Trimble and Tommy Westervelt. Their causes are varied, including early childhood issues, charter schools, YAYA, the New Orleans Botanical Garden, Crimestoppers, Project Lazurus, Each One Save One and so many more. I can’t wait for you to read their profiles to see all of their many accomplishments. We are so appreciative to Ella and Chip Flower for allowing us to photograph at their beautiful home.

Everyone knows that women and men love jewelry every time of the year, but the holidays are raison d’être for that special, sparkling package under the tree.

Check out our What’s Hot for Jewelry for ideas – we have everything from cufflinks to earrings.

Books are always great gift ideas, and the book signing at the World War II museum for Tina Santi Flaherty and her new book was amazing. What Jackie Taught Us: Lessons from the Remarkable Life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is thought-provoking, and it’s available at the museum and other great bookstores. Another idea is to give gift certificates to favorite restaurants and new venues in town. We just went to Beachbum Berry’s new tiki bar, Latitude 29, in the Hotel Bienville in the French Quarter. Since the old Bali Hi left with the demise of Pontchartrain Beach, there hasn’t been a real tiki bar. Be sure to check it out, as well as his six books on the drinks of the Caribbean! Of course, there are always charitable donations to your favorite nonprofits; you can give directly or through the Greater New Orleans Foundation.

Speaking of great nonprofits, our luncheon, “Wine, Dine & Design,” sponsored by Whitney

December 3 “Community Arts Awards presented by First NBC,” benefiting the Arts Council of New Orleans, 523-1465, ArtsNewOrleans.org 4 “A. I. Botnick Torch of Liberty Awards Dinner,” benefiting the Anti-Defamation League, 780-5602, ADL.org Bank, raised over $23,000 for Operation Homefront. At Operation Homefront, 93 percent of money raised goes straight to help veterans, their families and the wounded warrior program.

If you missed it this year, sign up early for next year because we’re doing it again! Thanks again to all of the designers who created those beautiful tables!

New Year’s Eve will be with us before you know it, so check out the best ideas for celebrating it with close friends and family.

Have a great holiday and be safe!

Beverly Reese Church

Kathy and Dr. Steve Price with Irma Thomas, who will be performing at the Patron Party for “Home for the Holidays” on December 23!

“Home for the Holidays” is a night of spectacular art and music benefiting the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists, which honors the memory of NOCCA alumns Daniel Price. In keeping with Daniel’s twin passions of art and music, the fund provides scholarships for outstanding visual arts and music students at NOCCA. “Home for the Holidays” will begin with the Patron party at 6 p.m., with the gala beginning at 7:30 at the House of Blues and will feature music by more than 10 local artists and bands, as well as a hosted bar and buffet.

For more information and to purchase tickets, call 310-4999 or visit HouseOfBlues. com/NewOrleans.

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5 “Fête de Noël,” benefiting the Ladies Leukemia League, Inc., 466-8875, LadiesLeukemiaLeague. org 6 Fifth annual “Le Marché des Fêtes,” benefiting Louisiana Landmarks Society, LouisianaLandmarks.org 11 “Holiday Celebration Gala,” benefiting Young Audiences of Louisiana, 523-3525 11 “Latkes With a Twist,” benefiting Jewish Children’s Regional Service, 828-6334, JCRS. org 12 “Hope & Holidays on the Natchez,” benefiting Café Hope, 503-0202 or email Shelia Falcon, Shelia@CafeHope.com 12 & 14 “Selections of Handel’s Messiah,” benefiting the Symphony Chorus of New Orleans, SymphonyChorus.com 22 “Home for the Holidays,” benefiting The NOCCA Institute, 310-4999, HouseOfBlues.com/ NewOrleans

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

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

Board Members:

Honorees:

A brief description of event:

A brief description of your charity:

saintcharlesavenue.com | 9

making a difference

By marilee hovet

Raintree Services Several years ago during the holidays I was invited to a party for which the invitation requested an unwrapped gift for Raintree Services. Unsure of what to bring, I decided to call the agency. As I soon learned, Raintree Services has three programs, all of which are dedicated to serving children and families in need. Raintree Family Foster Care helps find safe and loving homes for children who are in need of a foster family (a tall order, as there are currently 4,500 children in the state of Louisiana who need fostering). The Family Support Coordination program offers case management to families who have babies or toddlers with developmental disabilities. And then there’s Raintree House.

Raintree House is a residential program for girls between the ages of 10 to 17 who, having been removed from their families due to abuse or neglect, are in the foster care system. When these young girls arrive at Raintree House, they often do so with nothing but the clothes on their backs. As one would imagine, they’re scared, hungry and tired. More often than not they’re also in great need of a shower. And that leads me to my phone call. When I called to ask what would be a helpful donation to Raintree House, the response was swift and simple: bath towels.

For many of these young girls, their first day at Raintree House is the first time they’re given a towel of their own.

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As I was quickly realizing, this agency is very special. Wanting to know more, I did a bit of research.

The first thing I found was a photograph of a beautiful young woman celebrating her college graduation.

Reading her story, it became clear to me that Raintree had quite literally changed her life. By the time of her 16th birthday she had faced more challenges than some of us might face in a lifetime. Abandoned by her parents, she was thrust into the role of caretaker to her younger brothers and sisters. Before she found her way to Raintree, her

childhood had been taken away from her. It was Raintree Services that helped give it back. Now, against all odds, she’s a proud college graduate. This is just one of many agency success stories, each one more inspiring than the next.

Raintree is making a difference in the lives of hundreds of vulnerable young people. With the holidays upon us, please consider visiting RaintreeServices.org to find out how you can help this exceptional agency make a difference to children and families in need. 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 with the subject line “Making A Difference” Morgan@MyNewOrleans.com

saintcharlesavenue.com | 11

skin deep

By Cat Wall Aschaffenburg

smoky eye, and are especially great colors for blue-eyed gals. If the red color seems to be too much, temper it by blending grey eye shadow and adding grey liner for a look that’s still bold, but also dramatic and sexy.

Use a sheer wash of either a red-based or green-based eye shadow along the top lid only, sweeping the shadow out to extend to a slight “V” at the corner of each eye. Finish with black or brown mascara.

Metallic Eye Makeup

Razzle Dazzle Them 15+ secrets of holiday makeup Break out of your routine with some fun holiday makeup looks that you’ll be able to sport at cocktail parties, family gatherings and other festivities. The holidays are perfect for experimenting with your makeup, giving you a chance to brighten up your look in a new way.

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Holiday Eyes Eyes are often the focus of holiday makeup look because they are one of the easiest features to play up.

Green or Red Eye Makeup

Green and red are classic holiday colors, but just choose one to dress up your eyes for a festive look that isn’t cliché.

Choose jewel tones or shimmer formulas. Highly pigmented shadows and liners work well to really make the eyes pop.

Use a rich green eyeliner along the top lash line in a thick, dramatic line that wings out slightly at the end of the eye. This is a change from the standard black or brown liner, but still looks elegant. Pair it with a champagne eye shadow and black mascara.

Maroon, brown-red, or deep berry colors can work for a unique

Metallic and glitter eye makeup looks can really spice up your look in a festive and fun way.

Try glittery, pearl or metallicshimmer eye shadow. These will offer sparkle without looking garishly glitzy.

Add gold or silver eyeliner to any makeup look. Make sure to wear mascara if you use this eyeliner alone to keep the eyes from looking washed out and to add definition.

Work a metallic smoky eye.

Simply use your choice of silver, gold, bronze, copper or other metallic color to create a smoky eye, but line the top eye with black eyeliner for definition and drama.

Snow Angel Eyes

White eye shadow, or off-white colors like cream or champagne, can look lovely and romantic. You can make white eye shadow the basis of the eye makeup, by using a highpigment shimmer white shade on the top eyelid, or just use it to add a bit more ethereal appeal with small touches. Used at the inner corner, it can highlight and brighten. Used to highlight the brow bone, it can help make the eyes appear larger.

Baked Beauty

Consider rich, warm, colors to accentuate your eyes, such as: Gingerbread, Cocoa, Cinnamon, Spice and Chocolate brown.

An advantage to these slightly spicy neutrals is that they look naturally beautiful and work well for holiday events where less drama is called for.

Bright Blush Pink and rose tones work well for most skin tones and a light application is probably all you need if you’re planning on highlighting either your eyes or mouth. A cream-based blush can help your skin look fresh and dewy.

Classic Red There is a flattering shade of red lipstick for every woman; just make sure the base color is right for your skin tone. If your skin tone is cool, you ‘ll most likely need a red lipstick with a blue undertone. If your skin is warm-toned, you’ll need an orangebased red lipstick.

To keep red lips looking vibrant all night, use a lip primer and line the lips with a coordinate lip liner prior to applying your lipstick.

Gorgeous Gloss Even if the rest of your makeup is on the simple side, a quick swipe of gloss instantly adds glamour. Wear clear or light-colored gloss if you have heavier eye makeup. If your eyes are on the lighter side, you can choose a more colorful gloss. Berry shades, purple-based hues and candy pinks are all fun colors to try.

More Holiday Looks 24 karat gold lips: Give your mouth a flirty finish with translucent gold lipstick, worn alone or over your everyday lip color to give it added shimmer.

Luminescent skin: Apply a face gloss

anywhere you want extra sheen, such as cheeks, lips and down your nose.

False eyelashes: For an added touch of glamour, try individual or strips of false eyelashes for a lush, fun look.

Three Last Tips Never play up both the eyes and the lips; pick one or the other.

Do not be afraid of bold makeup colors.

Exfoliate your lips by applying an eye cream and following up with a light scrub using a toothbrush or washcloth. n

saintcharlesavenue.com | 13

kids play

By lynne gibbons

A Holiday Ride Double Decker Bus Tour Just hear the word “December” and many things pop into the minds of moms. If your busy life is anything like mine, December means shopping, wrapping, decorating, trips to the grocery and cooking, to name a few.

December also brings a two-week vacation from school for the kids.

It is a great opportunity to enjoy the company of your children but, without a few creative activities, it can also become domestic chaos fairly quickly.

For our family, the holidays also bring visiting cousins to New Orleans, so we take advantage of this time to show off and enjoy our city. We recently discovered a new way to see all of our favorite spots when the bright red Hop On/Hop

Off buses made New Orleans home.

The buses are climate-controlled on the lower level and open-air with a canopy for shade on the top deck. So even if it’s a chilly day, they offer a comfortable ride. As an added bonus in December, the buses are decked with garland and bows to celebrate the season.

There are a total of 18 stops along the tour, and you can start your tour at any stop.

Tickets can be purchased online (CitySightseeingNewOrleans.com) and printed on your computer at home, or purchased on-site from anyone of the tour stops. A single ticket allows you to get on and off the bus as many times as you like and is good for three days. Tickets for children 12 and under are just

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$10 while adult tickets are $39.

A complete loop of all the stops takes approximately two hours if you don’t get off the bus. Our tour guide told us many people enjoy doing the complete overview on their first trip to New Orleans to familiarize themselves with the city’s layout.

We started our day with coffee and muffins on Magazine Street and then walked just a few steps to the tour-bus stop. Buses come by each stop every 30 minutes or less. After a short wait, we boarded the bus and rode to our next destination: Mardi Gras World. We hopped off the tour bus, visited the Mardi Gras museum and hopped right back on the next bus. We hopped off again at the stop on

Convention Center Boulevard where we quickly walked to the new Riverwalk Outlet. Then we headed back to the tour bus stop and made our way to the Jackson Square stop where we hopped off again.

With great music playing in the background, we walked to the Moonwalk to take in the best views of the river. We then grabbed lunch at Café Maspero and walked down to the French Market for a bit more shopping. After admiring the recent renovations in the vendor section at the Market, we hopped back on tour bus.

We jumped off again at the Canal Street stop and enjoyed a quick walk down Fulton Street, enjoying the holiday decorations before getting back on the next bus. We decided to ride back to the Garden District stop where we had begun our day.

During the ride, we noted the additional places where we planned on hopping off the next day. Since the bus tour ticket also includes guided walking tours of the Garden District and the French Quarter, and a self-guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery, one ticket provides days of entertainment.

Although there were many highlights on our day trip, there were two real stars of the show.

The first was the fabulous, entertaining and informative tour guides we found on each bus. The second was our dear city itself.

New Orleans was decorated for the holidays and was ready for company. Now if I could only say the same thing for me! n photo by cheryl gerber

saintcharlesavenue.com | 15

what’s hot

by amy gabriel

Jewelry The cable-knit sweater and crackling firewood days of winter are upon us. It is time for twinkling lights outlining eaves and gables, frost-dusted wrought iron fences and piping hot peppermint mocha lattes with foam whipped into the shape of candy canes.

Make this year’s holiday gifting experience a flight of fantasy to match the magical mood of the season with these whimsical pieces wrapped prettily under the tree.

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1. The perfect complement to a chignon, a pair of 18 karat rose gold and diamond crusted petal earrings will have your lobes looking luxe.

Adler’s, 722 Canal St., 523-5292, AdlersJewelry.com 2. What better way to ring in the new year than with a 1.21 carat, radiant cut fancy yellow diamond?

Set in 18 karat gold with 1.00 carat of diamonds surrounding, this little lovely will sparkle and shine. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, 701 Metairie Road, 831-2602, BoudreauxsJewelers.com 3. This sterling silver tassel necklace with a black pavé diamond bail and barrel, white diamond accented beaded ball

and bell shaped drop with 12 pearl tassels is sure to be the talk of the hot toddy bar at your holiday soirée. Diamonds total approximately .22

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Photo 3 by Jim Osborne; select other photos by cheryl gerber

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total carat weight. Lee Michael’s Fine Jewelry, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 832.0000, lmfj.com 4. For the kid in you, a sterling silver Roman Candy Co. pendant will conjure up visions of taffy dancing in your head. Cristy’s Collection, 407-5041, CristyCali.com 5. Inspired by the towering oak trees of New Orleans, a pair of 14 karat rose gold acorn cufflinks will add a soft touch to sophisticated French button cuffs. Friend & Company, 7713 Maple St., 866-5433, FriendAndCompany.com 6. As delicate as newly fallen snow, round your wrist in a 14 karat rose gold diamond bracelet, containing round brilliant cut diamonds weighing 2.00 carats. Hiller Jewelry, 923 Metairie Road, 837-8200, HillerJewelry.com

saintcharlesavenue.com | 17

on the menu REcipe Stuffed Mirlitons 8 mirlitons 1 pound crabmeat (lump or claw) 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled 10 ounces or 2-1/2 sticks butter 8 ounces onions (2 medium onions), chopped 3 ounces bell pepper (1 small pepper), chopped 3 Tablespoons celery, chopped 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (1 clove), chopped 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons black pepper 4 teaspoons sugar 4 large eggs 11 ounces Italian breadcrumbs Boil mirlitons until soft, then set aside to cool.

After cooling, cut mirlitons in half, remove seed and scoop the meat out of each shell into a bowl. Set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat melt butter and sauté onions, peppers, celery and garlic for 3-5 minutes. Add raw shrimp and cook another 3 minutes. Add mirliton meat, salt, pepper and sugar and cook an additional 3-5 minutes, using a spoon to chop up any larger pieces of mirliton. Last, add crabmeat and cook for 3 minutes. Take skillet off burner and set aside.

In a large bowl, beat three eggs. By the spoonful, slowly incorporate heated mixture into the eggs to temper them. After all mixture is added, fold in breadcrumbs until mixed evenly and it thickens. Fill mirliton shells with mixture and top with a light layer of breadcrumbs for browning. Bake at 350 degrees until browned on top.

Creates 16

Embracing Tradition Owner Barbara Chifici of Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant’s Stuffed Mirlitons

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Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant 841 Iberville St. • 581-1316 1713 Lake Ave. • 831-4141 Deanies.com

jeffery johnston photograph

saintcharlesavenue.com | 19

the dish

By jyl benson

TRY THIS I live in a household that eschews most dairy products and meat. That said I was recently hit with a have-to-have-it-right-now craving for a medium rare rib eye with all of the steakhouse trimmings. I turned to trustworthy old-school Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse to satisfy my envie, and it didn’t disappoint.

Though I’m pretty sure the iceberg wedge with bleu cheese dressing, thickly battered onion rings and au gratin potatoes, not to mention the steak itself, did nothing to lengthen my life nor shrink my waistline, the meal was utterly divine in juxtaposition to my health-conscious day-to-day lifestyle.

If this is your story, too, then try this post haste! You only live once.

Happy Holidays.

My money’s on the Yakamein.

The delicious elixir packs all of the carbs, protein and sodium needed to set you straight after a long night of imbibing. It also works wonders on the miseries of a cold or the flu.

Lore has it that black southern soldiers fighting abroad in the Korean War were first exposed to a version of the soupy combination of savory roast beef or pork and

August Moon

Yakamein-iac The cure for whatever ails you I recently witnessed a healing transformation of the sort some readers may be seeking during this season of excess.

It was a chilly Sunday under azure skies and a second line parade was weaving around Uptown. A cluster of 20-somethings pushed an obviously hung-over reveler into the line forming behind Linda “Miss Linda the Yakamein Lady” Green’s pickup truck. Their friend, green-hued and clearly miserable, slumped at the edge of the tailgate.

“Not feeling well?” Miss Linda asked. “‘That’s all right, Baby.

What you need is a Yakamein right now to make you feel better. You’ll see, Boo.’“ He sniffed the brew in the Styrofoam cup suspiciously then slurped up the contents and lay back in the grass.

An hour later I saw him, fresh beer in hand, trotting merrily along with the crowd. Whether hair of the dog or the restorative powers of Miss Linda’s famous Yakamein, he had been delivered to a brighter day.

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shrimp, hard-boiled eggs, fresh green onions, thick noodles and occasionally vegetables in a spicy, salty broth with heavy doses of soy sauce and black pepper when

they consumed it after a day on the battlefield or an evening in a bar to sober up and fortify themselves. They brought the tradition home with them, and ever since it has been served in some of the city’s black bars, where it’s often referred to as “Old Sober.”

For years Miss Linda’s mother, Shirley Green, cooked Yakamein at Bear Brothers Bar in Central City. In the early 1990s Miss Linda, a former Orleans Parish Public School cafeteria cook, carried on the tradition through her eponymous catering service and started selling it from the back of

her pickup at second line parades and from a booth at Jazz Fest.

These days you can also catch her on Thursday evenings outside Ogden Museum, and at various festivals, farmers’ markets and food truck gatherings around town.

Though it isn’t available at the new Westbank location, August Moon Uptown continues to serve in-house – and deliver – curative portions of Yakamein. The house version is a delicious, broth-heavy concoction with the familiar thick

noodles, green onions, hard-boiled eggs and shrimp, but it also packs in loads of fresh Asian vegetables and pillow-y wontons while swapping out roast pork for the brisket found in soul food versions of the soup.

No longer just the stuff of second lines, convenience stores and take-out joints, recent years have seen this soul-food-meetsAsian staple turning up on the menus of some of the city’s more upscale restaurants, most notably Ralph’s on the Park, where chef Chip Flanagan prepares it with pork belly in lieu of beef and a thickened broth flavored with star anise. As a finishing touch he floats a soft fried egg atop the soup. n

August Moon: 3635 Prytania St., 899-5129, MoonNola.com Miss Linda’s Catering: 344-7218 Ralph’s on the Park: 900 City Park Ave., 488-1000, RalphsOnThePark.com Ruth’s Chris Steak House: 525 Fulton St, 587-7099, RuthsChris.com

cheryl gerber photograph

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the dish gift guide

By jyl benson

Gift Well

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Holiday gifts for the culinary enthusiast

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1. Appalachian bow saw bread knife Robert Linn’s handmade (and razor sharp) knife looks like a weapon but it works beautifully on the heartiest bread as well as succulent Creole tomatoes.

The knives have high carbon steel blades and are crafted of fine hard woods. $22.95 AppalachianBowSaw.com.

2. Oysteria oyster plates, holiday ornaments and serve ware. In addition to being supercool and locally made, Oysteria products are food safe, microwave, dishwasher and oven safe. From $10, OysteriaNola.com or Mitch’s Flowers, 4843 Magazine St. 899-4843.

3. The P&J Oyster Cookbook (Pelican Publishing 2010) Experience our native mollusk in all its alluring tastes with this beautifully photographed book from author Kit Wohl and the Sunseri family chronicling the company that has been noted for generations for the fine quality of its oysters. Selections include Oysters Benedict, Baked Oysters with Asparagus and Crab Meat and an array of sauces for raw applications. $35 at better bookstores everywhere and at Amazon.com.

4. Membership to the Southern Food & Beverage Institute. Now housed in swanky new digs on a bustling stretch of Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, this nonprofit living history organization is dedicated to the discovery, understanding and celebration of the food, drink and the related culture of the South. Members enjoy discounts to most ticketed events of the SoFAB Institute, the Southern Food and Beverage Museum and the Museum of the American Cocktail. In addition, all members enjoy the benefits of membership to the Greater New Orleans Federal Credit Union, a full-service financial institution offering an array of financial services including savings and checking accounts; direct deposit and payroll deduction; low interest rate loans; credit cards and mortgages. Starting at $35, SoFABInstitute.org.

5. Lodge’s apple-shaped pot of enamel-clad cast iron. This cheerful pot

can be used on all cooking surfaces, including induction.

Even if the intended gift recipient doesn’t cook, this beautiful three-quart number will look fabulous just sitting on the counter or pressed into service as a cookie jar. It comes in brilliant Cherry red as well as Granny Smith green. $107.50, Lodgemfg.com.

6. Lodge Cast Iron Nation (Oxmoore House 2014) Packed with

classic regional casseroles, soups and stews, new twists on old favorites and desserts, this cookbook is packed with 200 recipes curated from the foundry’s network of highprofile chefs (including Ryan Prewitt of Pêche Seafood Grill and Stephen Stryjewski of Cochon) and cast-iron cookware fans from around the country. $25 at better bookstores everywhere and through LodgeMfg.com.

7. New Orleans Classic Creole Recipes (Pelican Publishing 2014) The

latest installment in prolific cookbook author Kit Wohl’s Classics series. If the recipient is really special, give him or her the entire series: Desserts, Appetizers, Gumbos & Soups, Brunches, Cocktails and Celebrations. $16.95 at better bookstores everywhere and at Amazon.com n

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Local Leaders The Young Leadership Council distinguished 25 community role models with awards for service.

Over 600 people attended the Young Leadership Council’s “Role Model Awards Gala” on Saturday, August 9, at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. The 2014 YLC Role Models were nominated as distinguished local individuals who actively contribute to the betterment of the Greater New Orleans region and serve as role models to the community.

The 2014 YLC Role Models include: Iftikhar Ahmad, Justin T. Augustine III, Therese M. Badon, Arnold B. Baker, Bryan Batt, David Blossman, Matt Candler, Michelle D. Craig, Jeffrey Goldring, Stephanie Haynes, Sr. Marjorie Hebert MSC, James M. LeBlanc, Charles E. Leche, Lan Chi Luu Ph.D., Ed Marshall, R.M. “Iray” Nabatoff, Lavonzell Nicholson, Darryl Reginelli, Melissa Sawyer, Dana Shepard, Michael O. Smith, Monica R. Sylvain Ph.D., Keith Twitchell, Thomas P. Westervelt and Ana Zorilla. McKensie Kirchner served as this year’s Gala Chair.

An exclusive black-tie Patron Party preceded the main event.

Reverend Gregory M. Aymond, Archbishop of New Orleans, gave the invocation, and Mark Romig served as the Master of Ceremonies. The 2014 Role Model class was formally presented at the gala with a slideshow and given inscribed awards.

Louisiana Spice provided the entertainment, and Funtastic Fotos hosted a photo booth. Table centerpieces were provided by Mardi Gras Productions and consisted of white hydrangeas and purple roses with mercury glass vases. A silent auction featured dinners at more than 35 of New Orleans’ finest restaurants, including Commander’s Palace, Dickie Brennan’s Palace Café and Emeril’s Restaurants. n

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event at a glance What: “28th Role Model Awards Gala,” benefiting the Young Leadership Council When: Saturday, August 9 Where: Empire Ballroom at Hyatt Regency New Orleans

1. Honorees Arnold Baker and Ana Zorilla with Scott Sternberg 2. Bryan Batt and Tom Cianfichi with honoree James LeBlanc 3. Katie and T. Semmes Walmsley with honorees Monica Sylvain and Matt Candler 4. Honoree Keith Twitchell with Betsie Gambel and Curry W. Smith 5. Honorees Melissa Sawyer and Michael Smith 6. Senator Mary Landrieu and honoree Michelle Craig

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Night at the Museum The Louisiana Children’s Museum turned into a Disco Inferno for its annual benefit.

More than 400 partygoers donned their disco duds and boogied on down to Julia Street for the Louisiana Children’s Museum’s annual “CHAIRish the Children,” sponsored by Capital One Bank, on Saturday, August 23. For one night, the museum transformed into a 1970s discotheque, covered in gold fringe and vintage records. The exclusive Patron Party on the third floor was dubbed “Studio 54” and featured silver sequined drapery and glittery disco balls, as well as scrumptious selections from Pêche Seafood Grill. The popular streetcar exhibit turned into the “Soul Train” for the night for a cute photo op. This fun fundraiser was made possible by Co-Chairs Kathleen and Ben Banta and Marcie and Cres Gardner.

All guests who attended the event could create a complimentary flipbook in a photo booth by Funtastic Fotos. The music was provided by DJ El Camino, aka Michael Hecht. The specialty cocktail of the evening was called “The Disco Inferno,” and was provided by Firefly Moonshine.

Over 22 local restaurants participated in catering the event.

Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry sponsored a raffle, where the winner received a $1,500 jewelry shopping spree. There was also a live auction, hosted by celebrity auctioneer Mark Romig, which included vacations, staycations, whimsical chairs, works of art, shopping sprees, spa packages, memberships and more. Key items included VIP Game Day Experiences for the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, a signed Drew Brees children’s cheerleader dress, tickets to Disney World and a hotel stay at the Hyatt Place Orlando, a sapphire ring from Edberg Jewelry, and an LSU tailgating chair signed by Les Miles and the entire 2014-’15 offensive line. n

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event at a glance What: “CHAIRish the Children,” benefiting Louisiana Children’s Museum When: Saturday, August 23 Where: Louisiana Children’s Museum

1. Co-Chairs Cres and Marcie Gardner and Kathleen and Ben Banta 2.

Angel and Taylor Beery with Julia Bland 3. Tricia Weeks, John Gonzalez and Allison Stouse 4. Paula and Mark Jeansonne 5. Christopher and Amy Lawler 6. Larry and State Rep. Julie Stokes with Kim and State Rep. Neil Abramson

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Fish Are Friends

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Audubon Nature Institute’s nautical nighttime festival of food and fish.

The fifth annual “Scales & Ales” benefit for the Audubon Nature Institute was a swimming success. More than 3,200 guests at the sold-out adults-only festival partied throughout the aquarium, which was open all evening long – including the stingray touch pool and the new Maya Reef exhibit. DJ Brice Nice spun tunes inside the aquarium, while The Atlanta Showstoppers provided outside entertainment on the main stage in Woldenberg Park. The Sirens of New Orleans, in their nautical hues, enchanted the crowd as they danced and performed throughout the celebration. Felipe’s Tiki Tolteca hosted the after party, capping off the evening.

The decorations posted throughout the party added an aura of magic to the revelry. Mesmerizing paper lantern jellyfish of various sizes hung overhead throughout the aquarium. A long chandelier, made of coral branches, graced the VIP tent. Glittery underwater branches anchored with rocks in clear glass vases made the centerpieces for each table. Restaurant signage was stabilized in burlap bases for a nautical look.

Food from 35 local restaurants was served, including Galatoire’s Restaurant’s famous shrimp remoulade, Phil’s Grill’s gator sliders, Brennan’s Red Fish Grill’s redfish courtbouillon, Mizado Cocina’s atun ceviche and Le Foret’s Louisiana crawfish truffled gnocci. The VIP tent featured GW Fins’ chef Tenney Flynn, serving tempura fried lionfish with chipotle lime slaw. Abita was the exclusive beer sponsor for the event, and the signature cocktail, featuring Bayou Satsuma Rum, was called “Shark Fin Fizz.” Also positioned throughout were seven specialty bars, including Cordina New Orleans Cocktails, The Rusty Nail with their “Dark & Stormy, and the always-popular “Snowtinis” from Plum St. Snoballs.

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event at a glance What: Fifth annual “Scales & Ales,” benefiting Audubon Nature Institute When: Friday, September 12 Where: Audubon Aquarium and Woldenberg Park

1. Honorary Chairs Councilmember Nadine M. Ramsey and Councilmember at Large Jason Rogers Williams 2. Courtney Crosby, Henry Peterson and Host Committee Members Suzanne Alford and Jodi Yuspeh 3. Host Committee Members Michael Mann Jr. and Betsy Ellis with and Meg Ellis and President and CEO Ron Forman 4. Host committee member Casey Dietz and Elizabeth Dietz 5.

Yvonne Gilley with Host Committee Member and Sponsor Wes and Bonnie Strong 6. Host Committee Members Marcelle and Peter Connick

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With Liberty and...

“Justice for All Ball” supported The Pro Bono Project with a suave soirée.

The 26th annual “Justice for All Ball” celebrates The Pro Bono Project’s 28th year of service to the metro area community in sophisticated style. More than 200 guests started off the evening at a Patron Party held at the Audubon Clubhouse.

Patrons were treated to hors d’oeuvres donated and prepared on site by chef Ryan Prewitt of Pêche. The David Hansen Garden District Trio provided entertainment for the Patron Party. Norm Rubenstein and Michael DePetrillo served as diligent JFAB Committee Co-Chairs.

Following the Patron Party, Limousine Livery provided complimentary service to transport guests between the Clubhouse and the Audubon Tea Room, though many chose to walk, as the night was crystal clear and cool.

Approximately 700 guests passed through the doors of the Tea Room, decorated by Funkshuns, dancing to the tunes of Louisiana Spice. Each table boasted signature commemorative wooden plaques with an antique key entry and old fashioned glass doorknobs, which provided a complimentary touch to the PBP’s mission of “Opening Doors,” also this year’s Ball theme.

More than 25 local restaurants served partygoers, and a specialty bar and cocktail provided by SoBou, with product from Atelier Vie, served the night’s signature drink: the Cumberbatch Collins.

Dozens of area businesses contributed to raffle packages. The silent auction, chaired by Amelia Koch, included a variety of art selections, jewelry and antique pieces of glassware and jewelry, as well as the live oil painting done on site by Alex Harvie.

Party favors this year donated by Creative Graphics were green aluminum key bottle openers inscribed with The Project’s logo helping to complement and promote the mission of Opening Doors to Access as referenced on the invitations provided by Right Hat. n

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event at a glance What: 26th annual “Justice for All Ball,” benefiting The Pro Bono Project When: Friday, September 19 Where: Audubon Tea Room

1. Honorary chair Marcus Brown, the Honorable Nanette Brown and Cheryl and Mayor Mitch Landrieu 2. Elonide Semmes, Elizabeth Porter York, Co-Chair Norm Rubenstein and Chelsea Cusimano 3. Co-Chair Michael DePetrillo, the Honorable Bernadette D’Souza, Dr. Terence D’Souza and Aidan D’Souza 4. David and Pamela Hansen, Wendy Hickok Robinson, Sherry Dolan and Executive Director Rachel Piercey 5. Phil Wittmann, Steven Lane and Mark Surprenant 6. Dr. Daniel Cummins and Chelsea Cusimano

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Sculptures & Spirits The NOMA Sculpture Garden sprung to life to host local food al fresco “LOVE in the Garden” was a fun, festive and casual evening offering the best of local food, spirits and entertainment in the elegant Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. In celebration of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts’ 40th anniversary, the New Orleans Museum of Art honored five artists, both faculty and alumni, from the renowned high school conservatory. This year’s honorees were: Jennifer Odem, Brandan Odums, Mary Jane Parker, Ersy Schwartz and Michel Varisco. NOCCA Jazz and Vocal Ensembles, The Yat Pack and Mario Abney & The Abney Effect provided musical entertainment while partygoers circulated around the illuminated pond shrouded by the gigantic live oaks of City Park.

For nearly 10 years, “LOVE in the Garden” has celebrated numerous visual and culinary artists in New Orleans. This year, NOMA toasted the artistry of craft cocktails and their makers with the inaugural LOVE Cocktail Challenge, featuring 13 celebrated craft bartenders in pursuit of the most creative interpretations of “LOVE.” More than 60 of New Orleans’ best restaurants brought their catering “A” game outdoors for the evening, and after 10 p.m., nine food trucks took over for the first-ever Late Night component of the benefit.

Charlene Baudier, Nancy Matulich and Lynda Warshauer Co-Chaired “LOVE in the Garden” this year. Today, NOCCA offers 11 arts training programs and an innovative academic curriculum providing an educational experience unlike any other. n

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event at a glance What: “LOVE in the Garden,” benefiting the New Orleans Museum of Art When: Friday, September 26 Where: Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

1. Walda and Sydney Besthoff 2. Honorees Mary Jane Parker, Jennifer Odem, Brandan Odums, Ersy Schwartz and Michel Varisco 3. Co-Chairs Lynda Warshauer, Charlene Baudier and Nancy Matulich 4. David Edwards, Glendy Forster and NOMA Director Susan Taylor 5. Sydney Besthoff, Elizabeth and Clifton LeBlanc, Michael Kochie, Walda Besthoff and Scott Howard 6. Hattie Moll and Bryant York

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It’s a Bird; it’s a Plane!

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Superheroes, villains and partygoers helped catch criminals at Crimestoppers’ costume gala.

Batman, the Joker, MalEfIcent, Superman and over 300 law enforcement members were amongst the 850 guests at the “Heroes & Hooligans”-themed “Crimestoppers Carnivale” hosted by Crimestoppers GNO. Partygoers could opt to attend as their favorite hero or villain, and head out to Mardi Gras World for a night of dancing and revelry, chaired by Lynne Burkhart, Lena and Larry Dyess and Glenn Orgeron. Crimestoppers GNO’s President and CEO is Darlene Cusanza and the Board Chairman is Les Nettleton.

Musical entertainment was provided by The Wiseguys, and the emcees were Eric Paulsen, WWL-TV anchor and Gerry “V” Vaillancourt of WRNO radio. The event also featured a costume contest, bringing out familiar faces such as Bonnie and Clyde, Poison Ivy, Batgirl, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Catwoman.

Susan Coco and Pamela Schaefer chaired the live and silent auctions. The live auction featured treasures such as a private reception for 75 in the Pat O’Briens Suite, a guitar signed by the “2014 Blues Night” artists, 14 karat gold-and-diamond earrings from Friend & Company Fine Jewelers and two tickets to the Saints vs. Panthers game including airfare, lodging and meals donated

by Joe Impastato. Of the 147 silent auction items, a few selections included artwork from the Hemmerling Gallery, a private yacht sunset cruise donated by James MacPhaille, a vintage amber necklace donated by Anton Ltd. and trips to a condos in Biloxi, Beau Rivage and the Roosevelt New Orleans. Also available were over 100 grab bags or mystery bags containing restaurant gift certificates valued between $25 and $100.

Dave Barecca of Barecca’s Restaurant and Catering managed the kitchen and staff, and food was donated by more than 30 local restaurants and catering companies. n

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event at a glance What: “Heroes and Hooligans Crimestoppers Carnivale,” benefiting Crimestoppers GNO When: Saturday, September 27 Where: Mardi Gras World

1. Randy Smith, CEO Darlene Cusanza, Michael Harrison and emcee Gerry “V” Vaillancourt 2. Mike and Natalie Meguerditchian, emcee Eric Paulsen, Jim Letten and Board Chairman Les and Lorainne Nettleton 3. Christine, Joseph, JD and Allyson Vinson with Jason Bargas 4. Nick Nuccio and Dave Barreca 5.

Larry and Lena Dyess 6. Trez and Jim Zotkiewicz with Alexandra Orfanides and Anton G Heine III

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Mint Juleps & Fine Literature The Faulkner Society supported literacy with a celebration of one of New Orleans’ finest authors.

The Pirate’s Alley Society’s fall fundraiser, “Happy Birthday Mr. Faulkner,” celebrated the Nobel Prize laureate at the home of Honorary Co-Chairs Mary and Roland Von Kurnatowski, owners of Tipitina’s and creators of the Tipitina Foundation. The event attracted 126 people who came to toast the American writer with his favorite libation: Mint Juleps served in silver julep cups, the traditional patrons’ gift for the society’s benefactors.

The fundraiser was the kickoff event for the Faulkner Society’s 2014 BIG READ project, funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, focusing on the novel, The Beautiful Things that Heaven Bears by young Ethiopian-born author Dinaw Mengestu. Funds nettled from the event, approximately $12,000, will help offset the NEA’s required local match for BIG READ projects it funds, targeting at-risk middle, junior and high school students.

The party included a brunch created by chef Glenn Vatshell of Palate New Orleans and included grillades and cheese grits as well as a heart-healthy risotto of wild rice, barley, kale, walnuts, chicken and a variety of salads. But the centerpieces were the birthday desserts: Mr. Faulkner’s favorite cakes, devil’s food with boiled icing and coconut cream cakes made by Mary Von Kurnatowski. The décor for the event was autumn-inspired, including pumpkins, mums and colorful arrangements also done by Von Kurnatowski.

Guests of honor were home writer Bonnie Warren and photographer Cheryl Gerber, co-authors of the new style book New Orleans Homes at Christmas. Faulkner House Books, owned by Faulkner Society Co-Founder Joseph DeSalvo, is taking orders for the books; the net profits on the sale of the books are being donated to the Society’s BIG READ literary initiative project. n

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event at a glance What: “Happy Birthday, Mr. Faulkner!” benefiting the Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society When: Sunday, September 28 Where: 818 St. Charles Ave.

1. Co-Founder Joe DeSalvo, Sybil Morial and Co-Founder Rosemary James 2. Honorees Bonnie Warren and Cheryl Gerber 3. Lucie Williamson, Mary Grace and honorary chair Mary Von Kurnatowski 4. Rob McNeal, Michael Harold, Dr. Quinn Peeper and Laura Lane McNeal 5. Father William Maestri and Peggy LeBlanc 6. Kimberly Corbett, Randy Fertel, Angie Bowlin and Lee McDonough

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Luncheon for Local Wounded Warriors

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St. Charles Avenue magazine presented its inaugural “Wine, Dine & Design” tablescapes luncheon.

St. Charles Avenue magazine and its parent company, Renaissance Publishing LLC, along with Presenting Sponsor Whitney Bank, were proud to present Operation Homefront with a check for more than $23,000 at their inaugural “Wine, Dine & Design” tablescapes luncheon, where more than 15 local retailers and designers exhibited 20 elaborate tables in the Audubon Tea Room, each with its own theme and intricate design.

Generous table sponsors included Super Supporting Sponsors: Henri and Terry Hall, Pixie and Jimmy Reiss, Trimark Constructors and The Packard Family; Supporting Sponsors: Friend & Company Fine Jewelers, RDS Productions, Betty Hunley Designs, Bee’s Wedding & Event Designs and Michelle Sparkling; and Table Design Sponsors: Ambrose Garden, Audubon Nature Institute, Bee’s Wedding & Event Designs, The Brain Injury Association of Louisiana, Friend & Company Fine Jewelers, JADE, Judy at the Rink, Mignon Faget, Orient Expressed, Perino’s Home + Garden Center, The Plant Gallery, RDS Productions, The Secret Gardens Tour, Trimark Constructors, YAYA, Kathleen Waring and Bev Church.

Each tablescape was unique and intricately decorated from the chairs to the centerpieces; each designer incorporated elements from fine dining sets, their homes, decorations such as candles and monogrammed blankets, natural elements such as flowers, palms, leaves, shells and stones and even birds and fish.

Operation Homefront is a national nonprofit that provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of our service members and wounded warriors. n

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event at a glance

What: “Wine, Dine & Design” tablescapes luncheon benefiting Operation Homefront When: Thursday, October 2 Where: Audubon Tea Room

1. Guests at Mignon Faget’s table Ann Fuselier and Barbara Bush as Cheryl Lemoine looks on 2. Guests at Pixie and Jimmy Reiss’ table Mike Rapier and Jimmy Reiss 3. Guests at Friend & Company’s table Frances Fayard, Fionuala Monsted and Jennifer Heebe 4. Guests at Judy at the Rink’s table Sue Jumonville and Kay Fausset 5. Bev Church presents a check to Executive Director Spencer Hayman of Operation Homefront 6. Mimosa toast courtesy of Richard Buchsbaum of Audubon at the end of set up

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All You Need is Love

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Fans of The Beatles “Come Together” for a special tribute by WYES. On a crisp fall night in 1964, thousands of Beatles fans swarmed City Park Stadium in an ecstatic frenzy to catch a glimpse of their heroes in the first and only all-star show here in New Orleans. Fifty years ago to the day, fans returned to Tad Gormley Stadium in City Park dressed in 1960s attire to relive that night of Beatlemania.

The walk down memory lane began as VIP partygoers entered WYES studio and were greeted by cartoon cutouts of John, Paul, George and Ringo in front of a blown-up black-and-white hallway photo of screaming fans from the original concert. A classic photobooth by Mobile Memories Photo Booth featured a blackand-white vintage concert background. Toulouse Gourmet Catering and Pigéon Caterers provided an array of seafood, meat, vegetables and petite sweets for revelers. The specialty cocktail, the “Yellow Submartini,” was a hit with the crowd. Lori Murphy chaired the VIP reception.

WYES Board Chairman Marc Leunissen welcomed and thanked guests for their support and introduced “Ed Sullivan” and The Fab Four, a Beatles tribute band, who teased the concert and were available for photos with guests. Some original 1964 concertgoers who were in attendance at the reception posed for a photo together in front of a Sgt. Pepper replica drum with the updated drumhead slogan “It Was Fifty Years Ago Today.”

Following the reception, guests were transported down the street to the concert stadium in buses from Big Easy Limos and Hotard. Walker Volkswagen and Volkswagen of Mandeville had four Volkswagen Beetles on-site, welcoming guests to “Meet the Beetles” and Saint Arnold Brewing Company, the designated official beer of the VIP reception and concert, presented their tie-dyed Beetle. The rainy night didn’t dampen the spirits of the crowd, who danced and sang along to their favorite Beatles tunes performed by The Fab Four. The rain subsided by the second song of the night. n

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event at a glance What: WYES Beatles Tribute When: Tuesday, September 16 Where: WYES studio and Tad Gormley Stadium in City Park

1. Dave Landry, Susan Walker and WYES Board Chairman Marc Leunissen With The Fab Four including “Ed Sullivan” 2. Bruce Spizer, Bill Langenstein, Margaret Beer, Deacon John, Kaylea and Hunter Hill and Allan Pizzato 3. Original Beatles Concert goers at the VIP reception

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Toasting to Health

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LSUHSC established a professorship in Emeril Lagasse’s name for his contributions to the community.

The 20th anniversary of “Sunday at Emeril’s” recognized and honored Emeril Lagasse himself for a successful fundraiser that generously gives to the LSU Health Sciences Center.

Emeril’s lovely wife Alden and her parents, Cherry and Kent Lovelace, were also in attendance at this year’s fête. Johnny Lopez of Perfect Presentations provided the bountiful floral arrangements and Tiffany Adler of Adler’s Fine Jewelry provided “Sunday at Emeril’s” luggage tags as a gift to all attendees. Sheldon and Michael Schmidt Co-Chaired the event.

The evening began with a cocktail hour with appetizers and UNO students Miles Berry on the saxophone and Dominic Minx on the guitar provided the music. Anne Redd, President of the Department of Psychiatry Advisory Board, delivered the welcoming remarks.

Joy and Howard Osofsky presented the Emeril J. Lagasse III professorship of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at LSU Health Sciences Center, which was established in honor of Emeril’s many contributions and dedication to the strengths and well being of youth in our community. Emeril commented that the establishment of the professorship moved him and that the services provided by LSUHSC mean a great deal to him.

The affair included a four-course dinner; on the menu was fireroasted cauliflower “carpaccio” with blackened Gulf tuna, caldo verde, courice, confit potato with a soft egg and Gulf shrimp, crisp duck sausage with sticky rice and truffle soy and a braised beef muffuletta en crute. For dessert, guests enjoyed a blood orange tart, chocolate mousse or pistachio merangue.

A live auction hosted by larger-than-life personality Bryan Batt was a highlight of the evening. Auction items included a week-long stay at the Ritz-Carlton in Aspen, Colorado, dinner for 14 in Emeril’s Wine Room with music by Irvin Mayfield and dinner for 20 at Sucre’s new Salon on Conti Street. n

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event at a glance What: “Sunday at Emeril’s XX,” benefiting LSU Health Sciences Center When: Sunday, September 14 Where: Emeril’s Restaurant

1. Co-Chairs Michael and Sheldon Schmidt with Danny and Mary Clare Conwill 2. Auctioneer Bryan Batt and Dana Hansel 3. Rhesa and Alden McDonald with Edmund and President of the Department of Psychiatry Advisory Board Anne Redd

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Kol HaKavod

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“All the Respect” to Max Nathan Jr. in a tribute from JFS. Jewish Family Services hosted their annual gala this year in honor of past-president Max Nathan Jr. As guests entered the venue, Mr. Nathan’s artful presentation gift, a rectangular stained glass plate with a trumpet and three sprouting trees mounted on a platinum metal base, was on view, flanked by two white orchids. Each table was decorated with an elegant doublestemmed orchid inside a golden terra cotta pot. In addition to the orchids, the tables were lit with small votive candles.

Patrons enjoyed a champagne reception that included a special French 75-inspired “To The Max” cocktail named for the evening’s honoree. The program before dinner began with Board President Roselle Ungar and Executive Director Michael Steiner’s welcoming remarks. Rabbi Edward Paul Cohn of Congregation Temple Sinai then offered an invocation and a blessing before the meal.

Catering services were provided by the Audubon Tea Room.

Guests first enjoyed a mixed green pecan and pear salad, followed by grilled Atlantic salmon and a creamed spinach and artichoke puff pastry, served with Cajun new potatoes and green beans. Dessert was a warm apple strudel.

Following dinner, Courtney Nathan, representing Mr. Nathan’s four daughters, offered a personal tribute to her father. Joshua L. Rubenstein, a fellow past-president of JFS, introduced Max Nathan Jr. and presented the gift to him on behalf of the agency. Nathan then gave a touching response reflecting upon his presidency of the JFS board with both humor and sentiment.

There were approximately 240 in attendance and the event raised $60,000 to underwrite programs and services at the Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans. n

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event at a glance What: “Rhythm and Soul” Gala honoring Max Nathan Jr., benefiting Jewish Family Services When: Sunday, September 14 Where: Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans

1. Stanley Ungar, President Roselle Ungar, Honoree Max Nathan Jr. and Vice President Julie Wise Oreck 2. Harris Hyman, Co-Chair Barbara Hyman, Susan Rosenblat and Co-Chair Henry Rosenblat 3. Co-Chair Ashley Merlin and Rabbi Edward Cohn

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From Generation to Generation

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Touro honored dedicated individuals with the Judah Touro Society Award.

The Touro Infirmary Foundation Gala began under the starry sky in the Grand Oaks Mansion room of Mardi Gras World. Guests were ushered into the Patron Party by the sounds of the Courtyard Kings jazz band and treated to libations courtesy of the Goldring Family Foundation. For the main event, the River City Ballroom was decorated in calla lilies and white roses by Steve Hamel and Fancy Faces for dinner and the Judah Touro Society Award Presentation. The JTS Award recognizes individuals who have devoted themselves to the betterment of Touro Infirmary. Recognized as the 2014 Judah Touro Society Award Recipients were Dr. Harris Hyman III and Dr. Salvador Caputto.

In attendance were: Dr. and Mrs. Harris Hyman III, Dr. and Mrs. Salvador Caputto, LCMC Health System CEO Greg Feirn, Touro Infirmary Foundation President and CEO Jim Montgomery and wife Donna, Touro Infirmary Governing Board Chairman Hugh W. Long, Ph.D. and wife Susan L. Krinsky, Touro Infirmary Foundation Director Shon Baker, Touro Infirmary Governing Board Member Ruth Kullman and her husband Larry, JTS Award Winner and former chair of the Touro Infirmary Board of Governors Paul Rosenblum and wife Edie, Clay Smith, Jon Brouk, Richard and Flo Shorenstein and Rabbi Edward Paul Cohn of Temple Sinai. Previous JTS Award Winners in attendance were Dr. George R. Cary, Catherine C. Kahn, Margaret Epstein with her husband Joe and Jane Bories. Also present were Gala Chairman Adrian Cohn and Sammie Wolf, and Gala Chairwoman Shira Glazer and Matthew Rosenthal.

Chef Thorsten Leighty, the Executive Chef of New Orleans Marriott and 5 Fifty 5 catered the event. The after-party from nine until midnight, titled “L’Dor V’Dor” (Hebrew for “From Generation to Generation”) was held back in the Grand Oaks Mansion room and featured music by the Panorama Jazz Band and Mississippi Rail Co. n

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event at a glance What: Touro Infirmary Foundation Gala When: Saturday, October 11 Where: Grand Oaks Mansion at Mardi Gras World

1. Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez, Betty Kohn and Pam Freidler 2. Foster M. “Duke” Johns III, honoree Dr. Harris Hyman III, Barbara Hyman and President and CEO James T. Montgomery 3. Jon Brouk, Co-Chair Shira Glazer, Samantha N. Wolf and Co-Chair Adrian K. Cohn

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Raise the Roof Bridge House/Grace House hosted “Rockin’ with the NOLA Stars V.” More than 400 patrons attended the Bridge House/ Grace House’s fifth annual fundraiser “Rockin’ with the NOLA Stars V” on Saturday, September 6. This “Dancing With the Stars” spinoff features local characters dancing to raise money for Bridge House/Grace House’s substance abuse treatment program through ticket sales and sponsorships. Judges Jacqueline Delery, the 2013 winner, along with Denise Gerarve, a member of the Pussyfooters, and Jefferson Parish President John Young Jr. ranked performances and nominated the best to lead various related categories.

Nell Nolan was named this year’s Champion for raising over $8,000 and was simultaneously awarded the Judge’s Pick for Best Performance. Theo Stafford M.D. was runner-up, with Most Creative dance. Mike DeAgano, the second runner-up, took Judge’s Pick for Best Choreography, Anil Paramesh M.D. won Judge’s Pick for Best Overall and Sharonda Williams earned Best Costume.

The emcees included personalities Chet Pourciau and Chriss Knight. Contestant Theo Stafford’s band “Dr. T and the New Orleans Express” provided the entertainment for the evening, accompanied by Dance Quarter professionals’ short dancing acts following contestant performances. David Sepulveda led line dancing and engaged the crowd. The silent auction boasted over 60 packages, highlighting a “Saints Package” with a football autographed by Sean Payton and Rex Ryan, and an autographed Marques Colston jersey. Nearly 20 restaurants donated food for the party. n

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event at a glance What: “Rockin’ with the NOLA Stars V,” benefiting Bridge House/Grace House When: Saturday, September 6 Where: Generations Hall

1. Best Choreography winner Mike DeAgano, Best Costume winner Sharonda Williams and Judge’s Pick for Best Overall Anil Paramesh 2.

CEO Else Pedersen, Joe Pitman and Michelle Gaiennie 3. Judges Denise Gerarve, John Young and Jacqueline Delery

48 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

Photographed by Kenny Martinez

saintcharlesavenue.com | 49

philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Orleans Opulence

1

Save Our Cemeteries is committed to maintaining our mausoleums.

The National Association of Catering and Events (NACE) New Orleans Chapter partnered with Save Our Cemeteries on Wednesday, September 10, at the Audubon Tea Room to aid in the restoration and education efforts of our city’s unique cemeteries.

This year’s event, entitled “Savor Our History Soiree,” allowed 230 guests, along with Honorary Chair and founder of Save our Cemeteries, Mary Louise Christovich and newscast royalty Angela Hill and Dennis Woltering, to be transported back to a time reminiscent of Old New Orleans Opulence. Emily MacLean Riemer chaired the event.

The event began with a Patron Party hosted in the garden, where a full-size replica of a New Orleans-style tomb, donated by Kappa Designs, was the perfect backdrop for photos by Bob Bradford.

Lovely Victorian settees courtesy of Court Furniture and background French Gypsy Music allowed for casual conversation while an open bar, courtesy of Glazers, and hand-passed hors d’oeuvres by Chef Taylor Lorio of Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, kept guests’ taste buds engaged.

The Tea Room’s transformation was a culmination of talents from across NACE’s 100-member chapter, in which practically all elements – from décor and audio-visual to beverage and meal courses – were donated. The menu featured acclaimed chefs Alan Ehrich of Audubon Institute, Guy Reinbolt from Broussard’s, Noah Lindsley of Fleur de Lis Catering, and Kevin Belton of New Orleans School of Cooking.

Wine pairings for the evening were provided by Glazer’s, Republic, Constellation Brands, and St. Michelle Wine Estates. Old world touches such as fanned menu cards graced each place setting while the stage and perimeter of the Tea Room were adorned with uplit tombstones.

Featured entertainment from Carl Mack Presents came in the form of Virtuosa, a string quartet. Opportunities to bid for auction items secured by NACE and Save Our Cemeteries spanned the entire length of the evening.

The event raised over $35,000.00. n

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event at a glance What: “Savor Our History Soiree,” benefiting Save Our Cemeteries When: Wednesday, September 10 Where: Audubon Tea Room

1. NACE Chair Emily and Nathan Riemer 2. Gwen DeFraites, Honorary Co-Chair and Founder Mary Louise Christovich and Executive Director Amanda Walker 3. Soirée Committee Members Casie Blount, Katie McNulty, Chloe Henderson and Rebecca Gates

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Photographed by Kenny Martinez

saintcharlesavenue.com | 51

philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Good Food is the Best Medicine

1

The Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine’s Dedication Ceremony kickedoff a dinner series.

Four-and-a-half years in the making, The Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine at Tulane University opened with a bang with an official dedication ceremony on September 21. The teaching kitchen, armed to serve both the medical community and communityat-large, hosted a celebration filled with fantastic food and libations to toast those who helped turn the idea into a reality. Tulane University President Michael Fitts, School of Medicine Dean Dr. Lee Hamm and Goldring Center Executive Director Dr. Timothy Harlan thanked the center’s lead donor Bill Goldring, presenting him with an official Goldring Center embroidered chef coat with the teaching kitchen’s logo next to the School of Medicine seal.

The event took place in the new 4,600 square foot kitchen and dining area. JWU interns and medical students lovingly prepared and served delicious food, demonstrating some of their new cooking skills.

On September 13, the new kitchen was celebrated by the first in a series of celebrity chef dinner fundraisers featuring a menu prepared by Adam Biderman of The Company Burger. The chef designed a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal featuring hors d’oeuvres of smoked shrimp with yogurt, candied fennel and cucumber; a first course of pan-roasted veal sweetbreads with corn and tomato succotash; and a main course study of sunchokes: olive oil-poached northwest halibut, charred okra, sweet potato and sunchoke hash. Dessert included a healthy and exquisite take on the classic peanut butter and jelly.

As a nonprofit organization, one of the goals at the Goldring Center is to be able to continue to offer classes to the community for free. The Celebrity Chef Dinners, which can accommodate up to 50 people, help keep their doors open and provide a fabulous dinner experience in an intimate setting. n

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event at a glance What: “Official Dedication Ceremony,” benefiting The Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine at Tulane University When: Sunday, September 21 Where: The Goldring Center for Culinary Medicine

1. Lead Donor Bill Goldring and Tulane University President Mike Fitts 2.

Executive Director Dr. Timothy Harlan, Tulane School of Medicine Dean Dr. Lee Hamm and Chef Leah Sarris 3. Leah Berger, Sharon Courtney and Jeffrey Schwartz

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Photographed by will strout

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philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Do What Ya Wanna

1

The inaugural “Preservation Hall Ball” was a blaring success.

The inaugural “Preservation Hall Ball” had an air of fun, with attendees taking to heart the recommended attire of “Do What Ya Wanna.” There wasn’t an empty seat in the balcony and gallery, and the standing room only floor was a sea of dancing and joy.

The party was a benefit concert for the Preservation Hall Foundation, with established musicians from New Orleans to Philly to Oakland, California performing to help further support the Preservation Hall Foundation’s initiatives. Stars who performed included the Preservation Hall Jazz Band with special guests Allen Toussaint, Topsy Chapman, Tao Rodriguez-Seeger, Maverick Sabre, Ani DiFranco, Betty Ann Williams, King Britt and Beats Antique. Selections performed for the concert sang tribute to the first leader and pianist of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Sweet Emma Barrett. Additionally, tunes of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s newest record That’s It! were performed, a highlight being the title track by the same name. All performers joined in on stage for that tune, cultivating all of their unique musical talents. Other memorable moments included the St. James Infirmary Remix, which had originally been created and performed live by King Britt and the band.

Decorations for the event highlighted the programs done by the Preservation Hall Foundation, including instruments for their newest program on display for attendees to see and try. The stage was set with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band logo. Whole Foods sponsored food for the evening, and Glazer’s provided beverages including the Preservation Hall’s signature cocktail, the “Off Bourbon Buck,” a tantalizing blend of Bulleit Bourbon, Ginger Beer and citrus with a garnish of candied ginger.

At Preservation Hall, the term “traditional” is taken quite literally; the older generation teaches the music to the younger musicians, and from them to their successors. The facilitation of this tradition passing is a fundamental of New Orleans culture and also represents a historical lineage to the earliest forms of jazz itself. This is why the Preservation Hall Foundation supports music education, academic research, historical archiving and promotional outreach campaigns to create greater awareness and appreciation for Traditional New Orleans Jazz and the communities that support it. n

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event at a glance What: “Preservation Hall Ball,” benefiting Preservation Hall Foundation When: Friday, October 3 Where: Preservation Hall 1. Director of Education Ashley Shabankareh and Director of Development Greg Lucas 2. Creative Director and Preservation Hall Sousaphone player Ben Jaffe, Co-Founder of Preservation Hall Sandra Jaffe and Jeanette Jaffe 3. Preservation Hall Clarinetiest Charles Gabriel and Pianist Rickie Monie

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Photographed by kenny martinez

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philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Honoring Survivors

1

A patriotic celebration of life by Cancer Crusaders.

On September 11, the Cancer Crusaders honored 11 resilient cancer survivors who have not only beaten the disease, but also gone the extra step to give back to the community at their 14th annual “Celebration of Life Luncheon.” This year, the honorees included: Dr. Rebecca Brechtel, Cynthia Cheri, Ellen Cortello, Peter Dale, Nora Egan, Renee Pastor, Charlotte Ruiz, Lynda Nugent Smith, Jacqueline “Jinx” Vidrine and Charlotte Ward. Each honoree entered the stage through patriotic columns and walked the red carpet runway as their laurels were read, after which they retired to white park benches gracing either side of the stage. Chairs of the event, which hosted 687 in attendance, were Debbie Buchler and Dawn Miller.

Due to the event falling on 9/11, the theme chosen was “Hats Off to the Survivors,” which also paid tribute to local First Responders.

Each escort of an honoree carried the hat of metropolitan area First Responder groups, including NOFD, NOPD, Plaquemines Parish FD, the National Guard and others.

Guests entered the ballroom to the second-line tunes of The Magazine Street Brass Band. The Fleur-de-lis Quartet Sang the National Anthem. The foyer was draped in red, white and blue, and table centerpieces boasted a black, wide-brimmed straw hats bursting with national colors and a big white silk mum. Many of the guests dressed for the theme, enhancing the patriotic motif.

A large, online silent auction, chaired by Janet Buchler and Susie Baker, featured a flat screen TV, a New Orleans Pelicans courtside package and a Whimsical Rocking Elephant. Over 80 “Parade of Prizes” items were collected and artfully displayed by Linda Camnetar and Debbie Bush.

Cancer Crusaders is a local all-volunteer organization whose sole purpose is to raise funds for cancer research. LSU Health Sciences and Tulane Cancer Center are the beneficiaries of the funds raised annually. This event raised nearly $80,000. n

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event at a glance What: “Celebration of Life Luncheon,” benefiting Cancer Crusaders When: Thursday, September 11 Where: New Orleans Marriott Hotel

1. Co-Chair Debbie Buchler, honoree Nora Egan, Co-Chair Dawn Miller and Janet Buchler 2. Honorees Ellen Cortello, Nita Renee Pastor, Charlotte Ward and Charlotte Ruiz 3. Honorees Peter Dale, Lynda Nugent Smith, Cynthia Cheri and Dr. Jacqueline “Jinx” Vidrine

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Photographed by jeff strout

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philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Tomorrow’s Trailblazers

1

Children’s Bureau of New Orleans recognizes those who give hope to troubled youth.

The “Children’s Hero Awards” was designed to shine a light on leaders in our community doing extraordinary work to advance the health and wellbeing of children.

Honorees present at the gala included: Kim Boyle, Leah Chase, Lloyd Dennis, Judy Reese Morse, Mrs. Miriam Ortique who was honored along with her husband, the former Judge Revius Ortique Jr. (honored posthumously), Greg Feirn, the Fore!Kids Foundation represented by board chair David Gallo and Ross Miller, Charity Committee Chairman and ReNEW Charter Schools represented by Gabrielle Misfeldt.

Laurie and Jeff Young hosted the event in their breathtaking Lakefront home and graciously provided a small jazz band from the House of Blues Foundation Room and a wine bar with lovely selections

by Cakebread Cellars and Camus Winery. Fall-inspired floral arrangements and outdoor ambiance by Urban Earth made a gorgeous backdrop to a lovely evening under the stars.

The superhero theme was a salute to the Children’s Heroes, complete with Wonder Woman, Batgirl and Spiderman present to take photos with party guests. Funtastic Fotos was on hand so guests could dress up with props and create a memory flipbook of the occasion. Sketch artist Kat Walker created caricatures.

Board chair Chris Foucheaux and Immediate Past Chair Jaimme A. Collins emceed a brief presentation on the honorees and spoke of the inspiration they all provide to a future generation of leaders in our city. Presenting sponsor Liberty Bank CEO Alden McDonald also said a few words about his support for Children’s Bureau of New Orleans programs and the work they are doing in our city to curb violence, enhance education and help children find hope again in their lives after tragedy occurs. The event, in its second year, attracted 200 partygoers and raised $40,000. n

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event at a glance What: “Children’s Hero Awards,” benefiting Children’s Bureau of New Orleans When: Friday, October 3 Where: Home of Laurie and Jeff Young

1. Hosts Laurie and Jeff Young 2. Super Heroes with Mayor Mitch Landrieu, honoree Judy Reese Morse and Cheryl Landrieu 3. Honoree Kim Boyle and the Honorable Jared Brossett

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Photographed by jeff strout

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philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

1

Beacon for the Blind Lighthouse Louisiana illuminates a path for the visually impaired.

The mansion of Jim Ashbee and Jim Perrier illuminated St. Charles Avenue for Lighthouse Louisiana’s benefit gala “Light Up the Night,” Co-Chaired by Jane Heidingsfelder. Patrons attending the elegant soirée could mingle throughout the string-lit garden and pool patio or inside the magnificent home to music spun by DJ Ronnie Roux.

An animated Cooper Manning led the live auction, steering the bidders towards big plays such as a four-course dinner by a Ralph Brennan Catering chef with flowers by Pam Dongieux and event essentials from Perrier Party Rentals; artwork by Nicole Charbonnet, George Dunbar, Ashley Longshore and David Harouni; a Cartier watch donated by Adler’s; and a week-long stay at an Italian villa in Tuscany. Food and drinks were provided by Arnaud’s French 75 Bar, Cava, Chez Nous, Felipe’s Taqueria, Food Art Inc., Joel’s Grand Cuisine, Houston’s, Margo Bouanchaud Inc., Martin Wine Cellar and The Rum House.

There were more than 400 people in attendance, and the gala raised approximately $90,000 to serve blind and visually impaired Americans. n

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event at a glance What: “Light Up the Night,” benefiting Lighthouse Louisiana When: Friday, September 19 Where: Home of Jim Ashbee and Jim Perrier

1. Shelton and committee member Julie Shugar with Melissa and committee member Jerry Steiner 2. Board Member Joe and Dorothy Mann with Celeste and Chairman Curtis Eustis 3. Board Member Peyton and Elizabeth Bush, John Charpentier and committee member Suzanne Alford

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Photographed by Melissa Welty Calico

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philanthropic fun

by shelby simon

Under the Starry Sky

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St. Jude came to the Crescent City to benefit local patients and groundbreaking research.

The inaugural “St. Jude in the Big Easy,” presented

by First Bank and Trust and Bollinger Shipyards, benefited St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where over 750 Louisiana patients are currently receiving care. The evening flowed in traditional New Orleans flair with cocktails and paramount local cuisine from 17 restaurants who served culinary samplings including: Galatoire’s turtle soup, Houston’s smoked salmon, Acme Oyster House’s fresh shucked oysters and Antoine’s seared scallops.

News anchor Nancy Parker of WVUE-FOX 8 was the Master of Ceremonies. Event chairs Al and Carol Bienvenu, Joseph Canizaro of First Bank and Trust and Jim Barkate, National St. Jude Board Member. Troy Remy, father of a local patient, spoke about the extraordinary research and treatment at St. Jude.

The silent and live auctions included artwork, jewelry, shopping experiences, dinners, getaways, and much more. Patrons were also treated to a live performance from The Abita Stumps.

Over 300 guests attended, and the event raised over $152,000 for the kids of St. Jude. n

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event at a glance What: “St. Jude in the Big Easy,” benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital When: Friday, October 3 Where: Grand Oaks Mansion at Mardi Gras World

1. Bob Merritt, Joseph Canizaro and Board Member Jim Barkate 2.

Pat and Gretchen Morris and Event Chairs Carol and Al Bienvenu 3.

Cameron and Jamie Henry and Molly and Kristen Baumer

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Photographed by jeff strout

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2014

of the year

by Shelby Simon | Photographed by Jeffery Johnston St. Charles Avenue magazine is proud to present its Activists of the Year 2014: Kay Kerrigan, Nancy Marsiglia, Sally-Ann Roberts, Dr. Troy Scroggins, Gen Trimble and Tommy Westervelt.

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

Trimble Selected Past and Present Organizations: • Founder and President, New

Orleans Botanical Garden

Foundation • Chairman, Garden at Longue

Vue House and Gardens • Active Member, New Orleans

Garden Study Club, Garden

Club of America • Active Participant, Southern

Garden Symposium • Active Participant, Audubon

Pilgrimage • Owner, Afton Villa Gardens

Keeping Louisiana beautiful has been the lifeblood of Gen Trimble, who enjoys tending to her gardens just as much as the community they bring together.

Over 40 years ago, Gen seized an opportunity to restore a historic gem when she and her husband, Bud, purchased the burned-down Afton Villa in St. Francisville.

A true visionary, Trimble worked fervently to clear out the rubble and plant flowers in the ruins to restore 40 acres of gardens and open

Selected Awards: • National Placekeeper Award,

Foundation for Landscape

Studies • National Achievement Award for

Horticulture, Garden Club of

America • Inaugural Edith Stern Legacy

Award for Exceptional

Commitment to the

Horticultural Arts, Longue Vue

House and Gardens • Preservationist of the Year,

State of Louisiana

them for public leisure.

Trimble kept detailed charts of every flower planted and catalogued her experience of restoring the garden’s magnificence in journals, which are now bound and kept in the archives of Tulane and Louisiana State universities, as well as the Smithsonian.

“It is such an achievement to preserve the best of our past,” reminisces Trimble.

Since the Afton Villa Gardens’ reopening more than 100,000 daffodils have been planted, and more than

66 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

13,000 pansies and 8,000 tulips are planted each year – each meticulously charted and watched over by Trimble.

Seeing Afton Villa blossom into a lush Louisiana sanctuary planted the seed for what led Trimble to bring her green thumb to New Orleans.

As Founder and President of the Botanical Garden in City Park for over 25 years, Trimble spent a tremendous amount of time and effort to save the garden and diligently fundraised to build the Pavilion of the Two Sisters.

Trimble feels a great sense of pride to see the fruits of her labor become a part of what is a symbol of the community camaraderie of New Orleans; “it is truly a city park,” in her words. “It is marvelous to see people bring their families and picnics and sit by the lake” close to the azaleas, camellias and live oak trees her mother taught her to adore from an early age. Trimble continues to be actively involved in City Park and recently co-founded the Thursdays At Twilight Concert

Series, where the community can come together in the Pavilion to enjoy live music and mint juleps every Thursday from January until November.

Currently, Trimble is working on publishing a book about the preservation and regrowth of the Afton Villa Gardens. She enjoys reading and writing fiction in her spare time, as well as reminiscing in City Park.

Scroggins

Selected Awards • Guardian Angel Award,

Project Lazarus • Top Doctor, New Orleans Magazine • Spirit Award, American

Cancer Society • Day of Honor, City of New

Orleans • Innovator of the Year, New

Orleans CityBusiness • Acclaim Award, Forum for

Equality

Selected Past and Present Organizations: • Board of Directors, KID smART • Host Committee, “Light Up the

Night,” Lighthouse Louisiana • Chairman, 30th Anniversary

Dinner Committee, NO/AIDS

Task Force • Host Committee, “Moonlight

and Miracles,” Ochsner Health

System • Vice Chairman, Board of

Advisors, NO/AIDS Task Force • Commissioner, Historic District

Landmarks Commission, City of

New Orleans

•

•

•

•

•

•

Chairman, Cancer Committee, Ochsner Health System Board of Directors, American Cancer Society, Mid-South Division Chairman, Board of Advisors, Project Lazarus Secretary, Board of Advisors, Forum for Equality Board of Directors, New Orleans Botanical Gardens Chairman, Oncology Section, Southern Medical Association

As the Chairman of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Ochsner Health System, Dr. Troy Scroggins doesn’t take it personally when people say they hope they never see him in his clinic. However, he’s humbled when folks remind him that he is among the most respected and sought after doctors in New Orleans.

Scroggins knows all too well that a cancer diagnosis affects much more than just the patient, as the disease has struck his immediate family twice. To him, it’s satisfying to be able to offer patients treatment and hope during a critical time and important to educate the community on prevention, screening and treatment options.

It is Scroggins’ commitment to healing New Orleans outside the clinic that sets him apart. He is currently on the board for KID smART, an organization committed to developing creative and critical thinking in children through arts integration in the classroom. “We owe children in New Orleans every chance to be successful in school,” Scroggins says.

His greatest pride is being a board member of Project Lazarus, which provides shelter and healing for those

with HIV and AIDS. Scroggins acknowledges, “it has been wonderful to see the organization grow and develop from providing hospice care to one of respite care and empowerment.” While serving as Chair of the Board of Advisors, he developed the “Bon Appétit” fundraiser for the project, which consists of dinner parties held at participants’ homes, then brings everyone together at the end of the evening for champagne and desserts. It is now the second largest fundraising event for the organization and “combines [Scroggins’] love of cooking while helping to support the mission of [Project Lazarus].”

Growing up, Scroggins’ family fostered a strong sense of volunteerism and stressed the importance of acknowledging your good fortunes while recognizing those less fortunate. “For me, ‘giving back’ has helped increase my engagement in New Orleans and further develop a sense of pride and ownership in the community” he says.

Although Scroggins grew up in the Midwest and formerly lived on the East Coast, he quickly found a home and a “small town” community in New Orleans, and he loves being here.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 67

Roberts Selected Awards: • Lifetime Achievement

Award, Louisiana

Broadcasting • The Jill Leadership and

Community Award • Women of Power Award,

National Urban League • Unsung Hero Award, NAACP • Sports Hall of Fame

Special, Allstate Sugar

Bowl New Orleans

Recognition with sister

Robin Roberts for

promoting the National

Marrow Donor Registry • Honorary Doctorate, Holy

Cross College • Broadcasters Pioneers

Award, Mississippi

Associated Press • Hall of Fame, University

of Southern Mississippi

Mass Communication &

Journalism • 2006 Women of the Year

in Greater New

Orleans, City Business

The honor and responsibility of anchoring the highestrated morning news station in Louisiana, Channel 4 Eyewitness Morning News, is never something Sally-Ann Roberts takes for granted. “I enjoy my work … because it’s an outlet for both information and entertainment,” and provides a platform on which Roberts can deliver “a message [I] hope will be of encouragement.”

As a young reporter in New Orleans, Roberts grew frustrated with the cycle of poverty and violence she witnessed in the city. Her

mother, Lucimarian, who had grown up with very little, made it to college and changed the future of her family. Lucimarian told Sally-Ann that if she could change the world, she would create a program called Each One Save One, because it takes just one person to change the direction of a generation.

Her mother’s dream became a reality in 1994 when Roberts co-founded Each One Save One, a mentorship organization that will celebrate its 20th anniversary in January and

68 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

honor several other New Orleans mentorship organizations and quiet heroes who are in the trenches every day serving our children.

Roberts relishes the opportunity to inspire and join listeners in prayer in 44 countries through her Your Power Is On! show, which has been broadcasting on Let’s Live Radio for nearly 25 years. She further considers it a privilege to have worked with WWL-TV for the past 37 years, which has become part of the fabric of the city she loves so dearly.

Despite all her large-scale achievements, Roberts’ greatest sources of pride come from helping her family. Though she takes no credit for being her sister’s perfect genetic match, she didn’t hesitate to donate stem cells to help her sister, Robin, survive Myelodysplastic Syndrome and feels fortunate to have been able to do so.

Both Sally-Ann and Robin passionately support Be the Match, an organization that recruits volunteers for the National Marrow Donor Registry. Ultimately, Roberts considers her greatest

• Blue Ribbon Award, with co-anchor Eric Paulsen, Louisiana Center for Women • National Association of

University Women • Excellence in Service

Award, Mary Church Terrell • Also honored over the

years by the YLC,

Toastmasters Int’l, Kiwanis

Int’l, The N.O. Conference

for Community and

Justice, Junior League, New

Orleans Press Club,

Louisiana Associated Press,

Radio and Television News

Directors Association,

and in 1998 was part of

the reporting team that

earned WWL-TV Edward R.

Murrow Award for late

breaking news.

achievement to be rearing three children who are compassionate and strong productive citizens.

She is the author of three books, Going Live: An Anchorwoman Reports Good News, Angelvision and Your Power Is On: A Little Book of Hope.

Roberts is committed to making a positive impact on the community. “We are all just passing through life. Our forefathers and foremothers left this world better than they found it. And I believe that we should try to do the same.”

Marsiglia Coming from a family that always stressed that giving back is essential if you’re able, Nancy Marsiglia learned early on that “to whom much is given, much is expected.”

She was inspired by her grandparents, who immigrated to the United States with nothing and spoke no English but through their hard work created a successful national company while never forgetting their own roots and their civic responsibility to better the lives of others. Though she was raised in Richmond, Virginia, Marsiglia is delighted to call New Orleans her home. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina she says she saw the true spirit of New Orleanians: “Resilient, determined people who love their city and will fight to the death for it.”

Continuing her family legacy, Marsiglia has been a trailblazer for significant local developments, such as being the Chairman of the Audubon Institute at the time they opened the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.

“I am not only proud of this magnificent addition to our city,” she shares, “but it was so much fun being a part of this amazing project …

There is a passion for work and play and a creativity [in this city] that inspires all who

come in contact with [it].”

Women of the Storm, with its sense of urgency and camaraderie, has provided Marsiglia with great joy and numerous city and statewide accomplishments.

The Louisiana Children’s Museum is also close to her heart, and as a founding board member, Marsiglia has had the joy of watching it grow from an idea into a fabulous downtown family attraction. She is now a part of planning its future in City Park where children and their families can learn and play together in a beautiful environment, both inside and outside, and hopes it will be transformational in early childhood education.

Currently, Marsiglia is taking on the challenge of starting a new nonprofit, The Policy Institute for Children, whose mission is to advance policies to ensure that Louisiana’s young children are ready for success in school and in life.

In spite of all of these endeavors, Marsiglia considers her most important job is as a wife, mother and grandmother. Her proudest accomplishment to date is raising two incredible sons, with which she jokes her husband Mike may have contributed to, a little.

Selected Awards: • Hannah G. Solomon Award,

National Council of Jewish

Women • Role Model, Young Women’s

Christian Association • Role Model, Young Leadership

Council • Volunteer Activist, St.

Elizabeth’s Guild • Juvenile Diabetes Living and

Giving Award, Juvenile

Diabetes Research

Foundation • Volunteer Fundraiser of

the Year, National Society of

Fundraising Executives

Selected Past and Present Organizations: • President, Policy Institute for

Children • Chairman, Agenda for

Children • Chairman, Audubon Institute • Executive Committee, Women

of the Storm • Chairman, “Zoo-To-Do for Kids” • Board Member, Greater New

Orleans Foundation • Board Member, United Way

Women’s Leadership Council • Board Member, Metairie Park

•

•

•

Country Day School Board Member, New Orleans Council for Young Children Board Member, Tulane University Health Sciences Center Board Member, Temple Sinai

saintcharlesavenue.com | 69

Westervelt Selected Past and Present Organizations: • Past President, Executive

Committee, Louisiana

Museum Foundation Board • Vice Chair, Executive

Committee, Past Treasurer,

Ogden Museum Board and

Arts Council of New Orleans

Board • Louisiana Endowment for the

Humanities Board • St. Charles Avenue

Association Board

•

•

•

• • •

From generation to generation, Tommy Westervelt has been a trusted financial adviser to New Orleanians for more than 40 years. He recognizes the importance of keeping treasures and tradition in the family, and has demonstrated this in his commitment to activism in the city of New Orleans.

Westervelt’s family has a long legacy of civil service to Louisiana; his great-grandfather and inspiration, Governor John M. Parker, was tireless in giving to New Orleans, and

Westervelt aims to continue that tradition. “Seeing the things that we love not only staying in the city but having a rebirth” is what keeps Westervelt engaged.

Westervelt played a big hand in the re-acquisition of the Windsor Court Hotel to a local entity, and is about to be involved with a similar situation in local ownership: the purchase and renovation of the Pontchartrain Hotel.

“I know it will be a very rewarding experience,” says Westervelt, because it’s such a “dear hotel to

Past President, Preservation Resource Center Board Member, Louisiana Landmarks Society Board Member, New Orleans Museum of Art NOCCA Louisiana SPCA Advisory Board, Newcomb Art Gallery

70 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

the city of New Orleans and its natives.”

Illuminating the rich history and resources of New Orleans on an international level is of great importance to Westervelt.

As a board member of the Arts Council of New Orleans, Westervelt is proud to welcome the first-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness “LUNA Fete,” a spectacular 3-D video mapping installation projected onto Gallier Hall from November 30 until December 6. He is further gratified for his part in financing The Center for

Restorative Breast Surgery, a renowned breast cancer facility that brings clientele to New Orleans from all over the world. Over the last 10 years Westervelt has worked relentlessly for the New Orleans streetcar line, the oldest in the United States, to obtain the recognition it deserves as a national historic landmark.

Among the other locations, Westervelt has reimagined is his place of work, IberiaBank’s location at Louisiana and St. Charles avenues, with which he was responsible for the interior

design and reconstruction. A board room at that location has been named in his honor. “I have been very fortunate in both my career and nonprofit work that allow me to stay in the city that has been my family’s home for many generations and enjoy all the functions the city has to offer. This community has given me a great life. Every citizen that can possibly [give back] needs to do it.”

Kerrigan

Selected Past and Present Organizations: • Co-Owner of Entre Nous,

Member of Editing Board,

Carlisle Collections, NYC, Ltd. • Foundation Board Member,

Fundraising Committee

and Chair of 20th Reunion,

New Orleans Charter Science

& Math High School

Foundation • Board Member, Fundraising Committee Co-Chair, “Just Say YaYa”

•

•

•

•

•

Carnival Committee, Co-Chair Friends of Crime Stoppers, Crime Stoppers New Orleans Member, Audubon Park Commission Founding Member, Vice President, Executive and Education Committee Member, Citizens for 1 Greater New Orleans President of Board of Directors, Audubon Institute Chair, Audubon Institute’s “Zoo-To-Do”

•

•

•

Fundraising Chair, St. Martin’s Episcopal School Member of School Board and Member of Headmaster Search Committee, St. George’s Episcopal School Co-Chair, Jambalaya Cookbook, Junior League of New Orleans

“Everything I do – it’s all about children,” says long-time activist Kay Kerrigan with bright eyes.

“To me it’s just so exhilarating, because the greatest thrill of all is to see a huge smile on a child’s face because they’re successful and happy.”

Kerrigan currently funnels her energy into two major projects: “Just Say YAYA” and the New Orleans Charter Science and Mathematics High School. “It is so fun to be involved with these young minds, to see them react …

It gives me so much faith that education can change people’s lives.”

She is a fierce advocate that every child is able to learn, and that in a nurturing environment like Sci High they take off like rockets.

Kerrigan glows when talking about YAYA, for which she’s currently a board member and actively fundraising in order to build a new art and community center; her dream is for the facility to become a safe haven for all ages, with art and outreach programs that empower the future artists of New Orleans. YAYA is currently an after school program that instills lifestyle skills for children, teaching them how to take their art passion and turn it into a business they can operate, manage and promote. Last

year, YAYA helped more than 4,000 local kids, and its story has inspired other cities to model programs in the same vein. “Each YAYA student gives back to the community – and to me, that’s of the utmost importance,” she says.

When Kerrigan has a goal in mind, she’s a force to be reckoned with. She is a founding member of Citizens for 1 Greater New Orleans, and fought diligently for years to pass legislation to restore levee safety after Hurricane Katrina.

She served as President of the Audubon Institute when the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas was under construction, chaired “Zoo-To-Do” and was on the Audubon Park Commission for more than six years. While on the board for the Louisiana Branch of the International Dyslexic Association, she worked tirelessly to raise awareness, all while co-owning a women’s clothing line, Carlisle Collection, NYC, Ltd., and being a wife and parent of two boys.

Kerrigan admits that she isn’t a hot weather flower, but stays in New Orleans for the people – plain and simple. In her spare time, she relishes the opportunity to paint, to go on skiing trips and to gush about her “too cool” grandchildren.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 71

72 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

op r h p s you o -st ning e n n a o pla ight n r fo cial e sp

by Kelcy Wilson | photos cheryl gerber While New Year’s Day is often spent with family, cooking cabbage and black-eyed peas, New Year’s Eve usually involves far more liveliness and excitement. Saying “bon voyage” to 2014 will likely involve decadent holiday food, booming blasts of fireworks, toasts with sparkling Champagne and parties full of glitz and glamour. New Year’s Eve offers one last day to do it up big. For many women, it’s the perfect excuse to buy a new outfit, hit the spa or salon and take advantage of local gift cards newly received during the holidays. Whether you choose to host or attend a party, head downtown or stuff yourself before committing to resolutions, New Year’s Eve presents the perfect day and night for going all out.

Get your checklist together now for your must-haves and must-dos on New Year’s Eve. If properly planned, the last day and night of the year may very well be the best.

how ep to pr Whether you visit a spa, a salon or both, there’s no better way to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new than with a good cleanse and a refreshed look. Get ready for a crazy night with a relaxing day of pampering.

74 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

Mint opened in December 2013 and is a “concept” shop offering both spa services and a well-curated selection of apparel, workout wear, accessories and home decorative items.

They offer clients facials, microdermabrasion, Xtreme eyelash extensions, waxing, nail services and makeup

application. Mint stocks skincare lines Natura Bisse and REN UK, local cosmetics line Lipscape and other “small-batch” makers. They feature hardto-find apparel lines such as Maison Scotch out of Amsterdam, Wilt and Odd Molly out of Copenhagen.

Home decorative lines

include Coral & Tusk and K Studio.

For a special night like New Year’s Eve, Nail Technician Michelia Tran suggests adding a little glitter to your manicure, “such as Trust Fund Beauty’s ‘Killer Heels’ to provide an eye-catching and fun touch for the night.”

Waldorf Astoria Spa New Orleans

Those interested in making a full day out of their New Year’s Eve celebrations can spend hours being rejuvenated at the new Waldorf Astoria Spa New Orleans located in the historic Roosevelt New Orleans. With a 20 percent discount for locals Sunday to Thursday, Wednesday, December 31 is a perfect time to experience their comprehensive menu of services.

“When I think about our spa, I know it’s the perfect place to prepare for a night out – we have everything,” says Spa Director Jill Haidler. “You can relax, have some champagne, get a massage, hair, nails and makeup done and you’re ready to go,” she says.

According to Haidler, manicures and pedicures are popular holiday services. The vegan SpaRitual line of polishes stays on well and comes in a large variety of unique and sparkling shades.

For partygoers looking for salon-style hair without the cut or price, BLEU, A Blowdry Bar offers a number of styling options.

“It still blows me away that ladies love to start their special night out with a service at BLEU,” says Owner and Makeup Artist Emily LaBorde Cheramie.

“It really is a one-stopshop where you can have both your hair and makeup done in a fun social scene, all with a mimosa in hand,” she says.

According to Cheramie, their biggest request on New Year’s Eve is the “UpTowner,” an elegant up-do. The UpTowner runs a modest $55 with a makeup application running the same. Lashes can be added for an additional $10. BLEU 2 U on-location services are now available for groups meeting certain requirements.

BLEU, A Blowdry Bar

Ashley Sievert Beauty

H2O Salon & Spa

Stone Creek Club & Spa

At Ashley Sievert Beauty, Ashley Sievert and her team of makeup artists enjoy adding some color to clients’ somewhat lighter winter skin.

“A spray tan, especially in January, gives a nice glow and makes the makeup pop with more coloring,” says Sievert. As for makeup, “A lot of times we’ll do one of two things, either a glitter or metallic eye or a normal neutral eye with a pop of color on the lips, a deep berry or red popular for fall and winter,” she says.

Ashley Sievert Beauty is known for its makeup and waxing services as well as Sievert’s own makeup line. Anything used by Sievert and her team can also be purchased for easy touch ups throughout the night. On Instagram, find Sievert’s work at @ ashleysievert and @ashleysievertbeauty.

On Metairie Road, H2O Salon & Spa offers a full menu of salon and spa services in addition to blow dry, lashes, makeup and more. Special occasions like New Year’s Eve are a great time for premium services like their HydraFacial, a non-invasive procedure that leaves skin refreshed and glowing.

The holiday also calls for festive makeup, and H2O makeup artists can create dramatic, smoky and glamorous eyes, delivering results with luxury mineral cosmetics that can be hard to accomplish at home.

H2O also offers Cluster Eyelash Applications, which, when properly cared for, can last longer than typical strip lashes.

On the Northshore, the Stone Creek Club & Spa also offers a comprehensive spa menu. During the holiday season, spa goers and gift givers often opt for the opulent experience that is the DermAware Holiday Service.

“Champagne wine acids, powerful anti-oxidants, rejuvenating vitamins A and C and hydrating caviar and argon oil make this a luxurious treatment for a special time of year,” says Member Service and Spa Director Katie Conner Santangelo. According to Santangelo, each service will begin with a gentle enzyme exfoliation, leaving the skin super soft and ready to receive its holiday treatment. The Champagne Acid Holiday Peel and Mask revives and polishes the skin, leaving it glowing and beautiful.

Mint, 4601 Dryades St., 304-6225; Waldorf Astoria Spa New Orleans, 130 Roosevelt Way, 335-3190, TheRooseveltNewOrleans.com; BLEU, A Blowdry Bar, 701 Metairie Road, Metairie, 309-5999, BleuABlowdryBar.com; Ashley Sievert Beauty, 3331 Severn Ave., Suite 204, Metairie, 462-1731, AshleySievert.com; H2O Salon & Spa, 441 Metairie Road, Metairie, 835-4377, H2OSalon-Spa.com; Stone Creek Club & Spa, 1201 Ochsner Blvd., Covington, (985) 801-7100, StoneCreekClubAndSpa.com saintcharlesavenue.com | 75

what r to wea After so much champagne, the night may be a little fuzzy for some, but with the right outfit you’ll be memorable all year long.

Turn heads this year with an unforgettable new look.

For a glitzy, glamorous look that won’t break the bank, Gia’s Boutique offers fashion forward items both online and at its Magazine Street location. Originally a web-based store, Gia’s has grown into an actual brickand-mortar boutique stocked with a mixture of both classic and trendy pieces and where mixing and matching is encouraged. For celebrating New Year’s Eve, Owner Dana Baumer recommends something sparkly.

“Right now we have some sequin dresses and sequin rompers that are definitely perfect for New Year’s. Even if it’s a little chilly, they can both be worn with tights and booties for a fab look,” says Baumer. One of New Orleans’ favorite color combinations, the sequin dress is gold in color and the romper comes in black and gold.

76 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

Cella’s Boutique

Yvonne LaFleur

Trashy Diva

Another local company with French Quarter and Uptown locations, Trashy Diva features a number of dresses with classic style and an elegant twist.

Erica at Trashy Diva’s Royal Street store recommends rocking a fabulous, flattering silhouette in the Lena Dress.

“The Dragonfly hue will be sure to turn heads! Like most of our styles, the Lena Dress is available in multiple colors, allowing you to choose the hue that suits you best,” says Erica. Shoppers looking for little black dress will also have plenty of options at Trashy Diva.

“From fancy to casual, our dresses are made with fabrics that range from satin to stretch cotton to rayon. Our selection of fantastic accessories is sure to add a little sparkle to your ensemble,” says Rachel from the Magazine Street store.

A popular fashionforward women’s clothing store, Cella’s Boutique started in the French Quarter at Jackson Square two years ago and has already opened a second location this summer on Magazine Street. According to Owner Marcella Peraza, they carry a mix of premium and accessible clothing, including brands such as Amanda Uprichard, 7 For All Mankind, MLV, Tibi and Chelsea Flower. Fall and winter shoppers can expect fur vests, flared jeans, silk tops and fringe booties, as well as beaded holiday dresses and skirts.

“I would say that the biggest trend for New Year’s Eve is the classic beaded dress with an unexpected, modern detail, such as the open back on one of our MLV dresses, or likewise the slit back on a navy sequin dress we carry,” says Peraza.

A new addition to the New Orleans fashion scene, Clover Boutique has experienced a successful three months on Magazine Street.

Owner Melissa Coleman envisioned a store offering exceptional “basics” driven by style rather than trend.

“I wanted to open a store where you could find a black dress, a silk shirt or a cashmere sweater, and you could find them in colors that work,” says Coleman. Clover presents a neutral color palette of mostly black, white, gray, nude and blush. Coleman notes a shift from dresses to jumpsuits this year.

“If I were going out for a New Year’s Eve dinner and show, I’d wear a black silk jumpsuit, dangly earrings and a leather jacket. For something more formal, a black strapless dress by L’Agence,” says Coleman.

Clover Boutique

Haute

The fashion emporium of Yvonne LaFleur has been a New Orleans staple for 45 years. What began as a small boutique is now a 10,000-square-foot Riverbend oasis of women’s clothing in every category.

A major plus to shopping at Yvonne LaFleur is access to complimentary alterations on everything sold in-store.

“This does not exist in other stores,” says LaFleur.

The proprietress notes that outsourcing alterations usually results in low quality work. For New Year’s Eve-wear, LaFleur offers something for everyone.

“We dress everyone from the stay-at-home lady in luxurious pajamas and a cashmere robe to women looking for a fabulous black dress with a fur wrap, black stockings and great jewelry.” From rhinestones to Swarovski crystal, Yvonne LaFleur can make any outfit shine.

“New Year’s Eve is the perfect night to have fun with your look – this is the night to sparkle,” says Owner Sanja Alickovic of Haute, a fashion hotspot located in the Warehouse District on Magazine Street.

Alickovic recommends going all out with sequins, feathers, leather, fur – all of it. “Our favorite look this fall is a fun skirt with embellishment, perhaps feathers and sequins paired with a sleek top,” she says.

According to Alickovic, a chic jumpsuit is a musthave for the holidays. Haute Hippie and Mason have mastered the look and shoppers at Haute can’t get enough. Throughout December, Haute will celebrate its third anniversary with special sales and events. Find announcements via Instagram (@ hautenola) or on Facebook (Haute Women’s Boutique).

Gia’s Boutique, 4513 Magazine St., 302-9655, ShopGias.com; Trashy Diva, 2048 Magazine St., 299-8777, 539 Royal St., 522-4233, TrashyDiva.com; Cella’s Boutique, 514 St. Peter St., 529-5110; Clover Boutique, 2240 Magazine St., #101, 272-0792, BoutiqueClover.com; Yvonne LaFleur, 8131 Hampson St., 866-9666, YvonneLaFleur.com; Haute, 725 Magazine St., 522-8687, HauteNola.com saintcharlesavenue.com | 77

o how t finish While your wardrobe is sure to make a statement, accessories and footwear will give an outfit the finishing touch that says you’re ready for anything.

Already established on the Northshore, Emma’s Shoes & Accessories opened a new location in August, bringing designer footwear, handbags and other accessories to Old Metairie.

“We think a fabulous clutch can make any outfit,” says Store Manager Mallory Goorley. “We have a phe-

78 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

nomenal line by L.A.-based Ashlyn’D that are works of art. They even have a built-in mirror for lipstick application,” she says.

According to Goorley, booties are big this winter, and at Emma’s they’re loving the calf-hair details of a 10 Crosby Derek Lam wedge, calf-hair bootie.

Another favorite is a studded bootie from See by Chloe.

Great for layering or making a statement, Bittersweet Designs’ jewelry line at Emma’s uses semiprecious stones, vintage Czech glass, freshwater pearls and Ethiopian crosses that result in an elegant and free-spirited line with bohemian flair.

MIMI & Cece Shoes

Feet First

Back Uptown at Feet First’s new Magazine Street location (directly across the street from their old), Visual Merchandise Manager Anastasia Apostolos is busy incorporating the newest trends.

“There’s been a slow turn towards winter white, so people who want to be ahead of this megatrend can use the monochromatic canvas to stand out, especially with a shoe,” says Apostolos. In addition to white, Apostolos is seeing the return of true red in fashion and recommends a simple red suede ankle strap sandal such as the Pelle Moda “Kacey” with an all-white, all-black or all-metallic outfit to lend it an elegant and modern yet timelessly luxurious feeling.

“The shootie is another great option for New Year’s Eve because of the mileage it provides to the wardrobe going in to the New Year,” she says.

FeBe

At MIMI and CeCe Shoe, “Our philosophy for the holiday party season is ‘when in doubt, overdress!’ Accessories like luxe flats, stunning stilettos, a statement necklace or a hint of sparkle on your ears will guarantee a head-turning entrance,” says Creative Director Kathryn Bullock Joyner. Suggestions for New Year’s Eve footwear include the Aquazzura Matilde metallic pumps and Paul Andrew Fume bowembellished velvet slippers.

For accessories, Joyner recommends the Lizzie Fortunato Port of Call clutch with hand-embroidered floral print and bead and crystal embellishment – perfect for day to night. Jewelry suggestions include the Lizzie Fortunato Object d’Art necklace.

“With the prevailing 1970s trend still going strong,” says Joyner, “this pendant necklace is the statement piece needed to update all of your basics.”

Around for a stunning 54 years, Chatta Box in Metairie is another boutique known for their professional styling for any occasion.

“We pride ourselves on the service we provide by dressing someone from head to toe,” says Co-Owner and Manager Rebecca Nordgren. “It isn’t unusual that we’ll have three generations of women in the store together and all three will end up finding something.”

From casualwear to formalwear, Chatta Box has it all, but they also focus on jewelry and accessories with lines from Lionette, Virgins Saints & Angels, Trina Turk and Blessings In Disguise.

“Every time we get someone’s clothing together, I’ll say ‘Hold on!’ and run off to get accessories. A cuff bracelet? The right necklace? What handbag does she need, what shoes, pantyhose? We provide all of that,” says Nordgren.

Chatta Box

Saint Germain

Also located in Old Metairie, FeBe offers best-selling lines such as Vince, Joie and Stuart Weitzman. New to FeBe is a line known for its fun, vivid prints and streamlined silhouettes. This line, Clover Canyon, is designed and produced in Los Angeles.

Store Manager Ron Jones offers advice on staying warm on New Year’s Eve whether you’re in cocktail attire or more casually dressed. The Elizabeth and James Bianca fur jacket is a short fur jacket with a glamorous high collar and it comes in Blush or Charcoal Grey.

“It is beautiful over a cocktail dress but is also fun over jeans and pumps for a more casual party,” says Jones.

When it comes to jewelry and shoes, few people have as much passion as Faye Cannon, owner of Saint Germain in The Shops at Canal Place. For over 30 years, Cannon and Saint Germain have brought unique designer items to New Orleans, including exclusive lines of shoes by Donald J Pliner as well as Arche. French hair accessories, jewelry and designer handbags are also available in the well-established store.

Saint Germain will present a jewelry show December 12 and 13, the perfect time to choose your sparkling fine and fashion pieces for New Year’s Eve. “A great time to accessorize your holiday outfit, the show is also perfect for picking up a few Christmas gifts as well,” says Cannon. As to New Year’s Eve shoes, Cannon recommends a flashy leopard print to accompany a subtle wardrobe.

Emma’s Shoes & Accessories, 110 Rosa Ave., Metairie, 407-0668, EmmasShoes.com; Feet First, 4112 Magazine St., 899-6800, FeetFirstStores.com; MIMI and CeCe Shoe, 5550 Magazine St., 269-6464, MimiNola.com; Chatta Box, 4114 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 454-1527; FeBe, 474 Metairie Road, Suite 102, Metairie, 835-5250; Saint Germain, The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., Suite 208, 522-1720, SaintGermainNewOrleans.com saintcharlesavenue.com | 79

e whert to ea Resolutions don’t begin until January 1, which means that the final meal of 2014 can be more decadent than ever. Go all out with a savory meal and sweet dessert, and keep that bubbly from going to your head.

This fall, Arnaud’s introduced a few new items to their à la carte menu, which will be offered as usual on New Year’s Eve. Some new dishes include the Gulf fish Mitchell with bouillabaisse reduction, pickled okra and mirliton

slaw, and the quail Elzey with seasonal gastrique and seafood boudin. For dessert, Arnaud’s has introduced the new chocolate toffee bombe and a frozen praline soufflé.

“For guests that choose to stay and ring in the new year with us, we

80 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

pass out hats and tiaras, noisemakers, horns and all that good stuff. It’s a fun, festive occasion and we think there is no better way to celebrate the year past and the new year ahead than at Arnaud’s,” says Proprieter Katy Casbarian.

arnaud and galatoire photos by sara essex bradley

Bayona

Broussard’s

Broussard’s will kick off the celebration of its 95th birthday on New Year’s Eve. The “95 Years Young” celebration will feature a traditional Reveillon menu at $50 and a special onetime-only, five-course 2014 New Year’s Eve Degustation menu at $95, with an optional $55 five-course premium wine pairing.

“We will also be offering Champagne Luis Roederer Tete de Cuvee, “Cristal” at $75 per glass and $375 per bottle throughout the month of December, and Roederer Estate’s Tete de Cuvee “L’Ermitage” at $15 per glass and $75 per bottle throughout the month,” says General Manager Chric Ycaza. Broussard’s will host a live Jazz trio on New Year’s Eve and feature traditional seasonal cocktails from the Empire Bar – the Bishop, Tom and Jerry and à la minute Egg Noggs, hearkening back to a century ago – provided by head bartender Paul Gustings.

Galatoire’s

Despite the liveliness of the holiday, a quaint and intimate dining experience can also be had in the French Quarter on New Year’s Eve. “To arrive at Bayona for a festive New Year’s Eve dinner is a journey back to another era. Our romantic 200-year-old Creole cottage provides the perfect setting for dining on the nationally renowned cuisine of chef Susan Spicer,” says Event Coordinator Regina Keever. The James Beard Foundation, Zagat and multiple publications have praised Bayona’s beautifully executed dishes over the past 24 years. For details on Bayona’s New Year’s Eve dinner and events, call the restaurant or visit its website.

Another historic French Quarter restaurant wooing foodies on New Year’s Eve is Galatoire’s. The Galatoire’s Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne dinner ($175 per person) will begin with a reception at 8 p.m., followed by a five-course dinner at 8:30 p.m. The Anais St. John Gumbo Trio will provide entertainment throughout the evening, and after dinner guests are welcome to enjoy an open bar as they await the countdown.

The Champagne dinner courses include signature canapés, carmelized onion and goat cheese baked tart; seared sea scallop with cauliflower, golden raisins and roasted almonds; duck leg confit l’orange with roasted turnips, prime filet with potato purée, sliced truffles and foie gras demiglace; and cheesecake with luxardo cherries.

Apolline

While the French Quarter and downtown offer obvious dinner destinations for a New Year’s Eve, there are plenty of restaurants elsewhere offering early and late seatings for the holiday. Apolline, Uptown on Magazine Street, has been steadily building a reputation for creative, locally sourced dishes from Executive Chef Matt Farmer.

This New Year’s Eve, Apolline will offer a prix fixe four-course early dinner with a 6 p.m. seating ($65) and a six-course late seating at 9 p.m. ($85). Sample menu items include a corn and duck gumbo with pickled okra and potato salad. Heartier dishes include the braised beef short rib with polenta, shitaki mushrooms au jus, and the whole roasted Gulf fish with herb salad, fennel, red chile and verjus vinaigrette. Wine pairings will be available.

Arnaud’s, 813 Bienville Ave., 523-5433, ArnaudsRestaurant.com; Broussard’s, 819 Conti St., 581-3866, Broussards.com; Bayona, 430 Dauphine St., 525-4455, Bayona.com; Galatoire’s, 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021, Galatoires.com; Apolline, 4729 Magazine St., 894-8881, ApolineRestaurant.com saintcharlesavenue.com | 81

What to do From hosting your own soirée to spending an exciting night on the town, you can count down the last seconds of 2014 in a number of memorable ways.

A unique venue offering a variety of memorable experiences, the newly renovated Civic Theatre is the oldest theater in New Orleans.

An historic setting for dinners, receptions, parties and more, the Civic Theatre is conveniently located downtown in a sports and entertainment district. The winter lineup features several concerts and comedians. Pencil your New Year’s Eve or holiday party between these stellar shows and take advantage of a beautiful theatre equipped with the latest technologies, cutting-edge adaptable flooring and a variety of party packages to fit your budget.

“Crafting an excellent event begins before the doors of the venue ever open,” says Sales Director Kristen Barnes. “We have methodically designed every facet of the Civic Theatre experience, from the event staff to the curation of the spirits served,” says Barnes.

82 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

Creole Queen

Louisiana Children’s Museum

For a full-fledged family affair, one friendly to young children, the Louisiana Children’s Museum presents New Years at noon! The festive event allows families to celebrate together despite party-driven parents’ plans to be out at midnight.

“Sesame Street’s” The Count will lead the noon countdown to 2015 complete with a colorful confetti toss and balloon release.

Attendees will design a oneof-a-kind paper bag party hat and festive noisemaker while enjoying live music.

Tickets are $10 per person.

“The holidays are the perfect time for generations of families to come and play at the Louisiana Children’s Museum,” says CEO Julia Bland. “It is special to watch children, their parents and grandparents delight in the museum’s exhibits, programs and holiday festivities while creating fond family memories.”

The Metropolitan

Those looking to celebrate beneath the French Quarter fireworks many want to consider boarding the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen for its annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise.

“Out on the river is always the best view – it’s the best seat in the house,” says Director of Marketing Norm Glindmeyer. “You can avoid the crowds of the French Quarter and any number of things that can hinder your view.”

The cruise includes a late-night buffet of New Orleans cuisine, an open bar, music and dancing, a champagne toast and festive party favors. According to Glindmeyer, the cruise sells out every year, so purchase tickets early and ensure your front-row seat to fireworks on the river.

With lights flashing, beats pumping and drinks being shaken and stirred, The Metropolitan offers a very danceable New Year’s Eve and ranks among the more popular destinations for showing your moves and relaxing with friends.

One of New Orleans’ premier nightclubs, The Metropolitan’s lineup will feature some of the city’s top DJs spinning favorite tracks throughout three rooms. A special guest DJ will headline the night – someone with talents rivaling that of the club’s more recent DJs such as The Chainsmokers, Audien and Borgeous. The enormous New Year’s Eve party includes a complimentary champagne toast at the stroke of midnight and the $1,000 balloon drop.

Some people prefer to avoid the boisterous crowds and tipsy renditions of “Auld Lang Syne” by hosting a New Year’s Eve party. Robynn Beck and her husband Michael Beck have made a name for themselves with Party Rentals Delivered, a business dedicated to supplying your party needs.

“Whatever we can do to make things easier for the host or hostess, we’re more than happy to do,” says Robynn Beck. In addition to supplying chairs, tables, linens, glassware and dishes, Beck and her husband can help with design ideas and layouts.

From padded folding chairs to elegant Chiavari chairs in gold, silver, black, white or clear, design options exist for the most casual of parties at home on up to a regal black tie affair at an upscale venue.

Civic Theatre, 510 O’Keefe Ave., 272-0865, CivicNola.com; Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St., 523-1357, LCM.org; Creole Queen, 500 Port St., 529-4567, CreoleQueen.com; The Metropolitan, 310 Andrew Higgins Drive, 568-1702, TheMetropolitanNightClub.com; Party Rentals Delivered, 2323 Bainbridge St., #108, Kenner, 441-8705, PartyRentalsDelivered.com

creole queen photo by sara essex bradley

saintcharlesavenue.com | 83

vintage wedding

By BEV CHURCH

Irene Gillen to Albert E. Briede III October 20, 1949 Irene Gillen was 16 when she was asked to go to Joy Nalty’s Sweet 16 party at the Patio Royal where Brennan’s is today, but she didn’t have an escort. Her mother and Albert’s mother were best friends, so they decided Irene and Albert would be perfect for each other. Irene was attending Sacred Heart and went on to date Albert for years. He was older and played professional baseball for the Pelican’s. Albert took Irene and her best friend to school every day, and one day he asked her best friend if she would get out of the car! Irene 84 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

was shocked, but Albert surprised her with a ring and she said, “Yes!” Of course her best friend was delighted and the wedding plans began.

Irene’s mom planned the wedding at St. Anthony of Padua Church and the reception at The Orleans Club. Reith’s Florist was a family friend and Mr. Irwin was working there at the time; they hired him to create all of the flowers, even covering the whole railing at the church with beautiful bouquets of flowers.

The flowers for the bridesmaids were crafted by Mr. Irwin and the

bride’s bouquet by Newsham’s Florist; it was a gift from Albert and was composed entirely of orchids.

The bridesmaid dresses and the wedding gown were made by Miss Landry – the dressmaker of the day.

The wedding was held at 11:00 a.m., and then guests were off to the Orleans Club.

The couple honeymooned in St. Louis, then Chicago and had planned to continue to Canada.

They attended a convention and then to Marshall Field’s in Chicago, where they spent all of their money on incredible furniture, which they

still have today! Of course, their plan to go to Canada was put off because they spent so much money in Chicago.

Albert has been a runner his whole life, and that the annual Al Briede Gold Cup Race was named in his honor. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious races, and it raises funds for a scholarship in their son’s honor for St. Stanislaus and the LA/SPCA. Albert and Irene just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary and they’re still so happy. I guess those mothers had a great idea! n

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WITH THIS RING

By Mallory Lindsly

Pennefather – Moses Candice Kathryn Pennefather and Nicholas Dupuy Moses met each other through mutual friends.

Candice had just finished having dinner with a college friend when the two decided to stop at a nearby bar for one last drink. Nick happened to be having a drink with a friend of his from law school, and the four of them hung out for 86 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

the rest of the night. Nick asked Candice for her number and they began dating.

About three years later, Nick told Candice that they were going to an outdoor party along the Hudson River for some former New York friends of theirs who were in town. The two walked through Riverside

Park on the way to the bogus party, and Nick proposed under a canopy of trees in an isolated part of the park. After Candice said “Yes!” Nick told her that they had champagne waiting for them at a new restaurant a few blocks uptown. Instead, Candice walked right into her own engagement celebration, where a few friends

were hidden with champagne and picnic baskets.

After the wedding, they traveled to southern Spain and Morocco for two weeks, then returned back to their house in the West Village in New York City, where Nick is a lawyer for Credit Suisse and Candice is a real estate agent with Cooper & Cooper Real Estate. n

Bride’s name: Candice Kathryn Pennefather Groom’s name: Nicholas Dupuy Moses Bride’s Parents: Patrick Pennefather and Corinne Pennefather Groom’s Parents: Marigny Dupuy; Dr. Michael & Kathy Moses Date: September 27, 2014 Ceremony & Reception Location: The Mule Barn at Destrehan Plantation Coordinator: Elyse Skansi of Tying the Knot Wedding Coordination Celebrant: Michael Janson Ceremony Music: New Orleans Finest Wedding Gown: Marisa Bridals, Adrienne’s in NYC Maid of Honor: Tara Teschke Bridesmaids: Christie Griffin, Claiborne Moses, Jonte Duplantier, Courtney Tilford, Jillanne Stearns, Kate Elder and Cheryl Baker Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Dresses of their choice in shades of grey Groom’s Attire: Brooklyn Tailors Best Man: Pierre Moses Groomsmen: Ryan Berger, Joseph Carapiet, Cameron Duplantier, Hunter Duplantier, Robert Grace, Marsh Moseley, Porter Pursley, Daniel Schwarz, Hyatt Thompson, Davis Webb and Aamir Wyne Groomsmen’s Attire: Navy suits of their choice with grey bowties Engagement Ring & Wedding Bands: Family heirloom diamond with a setting by Beny Sofer of New York City Florist: Giverny Florals – Margaret Ludwig Caterer: Capdebosq Caterers Wedding Cake: Haydel’s Bakery Groom’s Cake: Milk & Cookies – Gambino’s/ Kleinpeter Dairy Photographer: Eau Claire Photographics – Sam Hanna Videographer: BrideFilm – Chris Serio Hair & Makeup: Blush & Bashful – Nicole Klein Music: Brass-a-holics

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YOUNG BLOODS

By Lindsay Mack

Dancing Grounds Executive Director Laura Stein When Laura Stein moved to New Orleans from New York three years ago, she had difficulty finding a community for adult dance classes. So, Stein took it upon herself to offer “underground” lessons at her home on Dauphine Street.

The classes were a hit, and she partnered with Jessi Donley to form Dancing Grounds. They soon realized the need for a bigger commercial space, and with the help of a landlord and a successful $16,000 Kickstarter campaign, Dancing Grounds transformed a shotgun on St. Claude Avenue into a gorgeous dance studio.

Stein notes that there was a big need for this type of dance outlet in the city. To date, she estimates

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1,600 adults and 1,000 children have taken lessons from her. She credits the community support from volunteers and schools for helping the organization grow.

Promoting dance is an “easy sell,” she says. “People love to dance themselves or watch others dance.” The supporters of Dancing Grounds noticed the need for dance first and then responded to that need. At this point, she has no trouble filling classes.

Dance is a holistic form of exercise with many benefits, but traditional studios can be intimidating to people without a dance background. Dancing Grounds strives to remove those barriers. Stein hopes everyone can walk in and feel welcome, and her goal is to make the studio

a “comfortable, safe environment to explore dance.”

Furthermore, Dancing Grounds offers a membership model similar to many gyms. For a monthly fee, dancers can try out an unlimited number of weekly classes. In addition, Dancing Grounds offers yoga and pilates lessons.

Dancing Grounds also offers a number of dance classes for children. Stein notes that the kids were thrilled to finally get access to a studio and now act like they “run the joint.”

“To start any organization or business requires complete dedication,” says Stein. But because she and her dancers get to do what they love, the time and effort is worthwhile.

With Dancing Grounds’ rapid growth, funding is the organization’s biggest challenge and donors are always welcome.

In particular, scholarships for children are needed. In addition, Stein would like to help make dance a more sustainable career, noting that there’s real value and skill in teaching. n

Laura invites anyone who is interested to drop by and help build a community through dance: Dancing Grounds, 3705 St. Claude Ave., 535-5791, info@dancingrounds.org, DancinGrounds.org.

cheryl gerber photograph

student activist

By Mallory Lindsly

Christopher Boudreaux Archbishop Rummel High School

“I believe that contributing to one’s community is a significant necessity,” says Christopher Joseph Boudreaux Jr., a senior at Archbishop Rummel High School.

Boudreaux had the opportunity to go on a service summit to Philadelphia in the summer of 2013.

The Dream Team of service set out on a mission to Lasalle Academy to help 90 at-risk elementary school youths. One day, while everyone was swimming, Boudreaux noticed one little girl staying in the shallow end. After talking with her, Boudreaux realized that the girl knew how to swim, but didn’t have the confidence to swim further to the pool. After working together for the rest of the swim session, the little girl became more confident with her swimming. At the next swim session, the little girl was swimming by herself “Watching her having the time of her life swimming by herself was all I needed to reassure myself of the impact I can have by just giving my time to others,” says Boudreaux.

At school, Boudreaux is involved with Student Council, Ambassadors, Operation HeadStart, Big Brothers, football and baseball. Operation

HeadStart is a service club through Rummel that volunteers with at-risk kids to educate them on the importance of reading and sportsmanship.

“Being active in organizations has allowed me to mature and appreciate the little things in life,” says Boudreaux.

For the past four years, Boudreaux volunteered to work with Angel’s Place with Operation HeadStart by helping with their Christmas party. At the party, Operation HeadStart provides food, music and fun for everyone. The students dressed up as Disney characters and Santa Claus to deliver presents to the kids.

Boudreaux says, “This act of kindness may be the only present some of these guests will receive for the holidays. By hosting this event we allow the parents and children to take their minds off of the hardships that come with illness.”

Mark Firmin, a teacher at Rummel, is an adult that took Boudreaux under wing when he was just an eighth grader. Firmin taught him the importance of service and engraved his passion for service into his own life.

Firmin’s example taught Boudreaux the positive effects service has on one’s life.

When he isn’t volunteering, Boudreaux loves being around his family and friends. In the future he plans on staying active in his community. Even though he isn’t ready to declare a major or a profession just yet, Boudreaux wants to develop a passion and love his career path. n

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SHOP TALK

By Mirella Cameran

Jess Leigh Jewels Jess Leigh, Owner and Designer

Did you always want to be a jewelry designer? No; I wrote a business

plan and finally got two loans for my startup boutique, but just when I was ready to move to Charleston, South Carolina and set up, my personal life fell apart. My dream was about to come true, but I no longer felt it was the right path for me.

How did you start as a jewelry designer? I moved to New Orleans

How did you decide to create this kind of jewelry? I have always loved

Tell us about the Live in Wonder collection. It is inspired by Alice in

What are your favorite pieces? The

instead and was so inspired by the artistically rich culture that I started crafting jewelry.

Wonderland and is about looking at life with fresh eyes every day.

Why do you think there’s ‘space’ for you in New Orleans? I think there’s

room for every artist in New Orleans. We are all so different because people are so different.

Where do you find the repurposed items? Everywhere I go! Estate

sales, warehouses, Lowes, the French Quarter, antique stores…

antique store hunting, and when I started making jewelry I saw a way to mix two things I already love doing.

large faceted bezel necklaces and the crowns.

What is your most popular piece? The tiny bezels that are choker-length; they can be worn every day and the quality is amazing for the price.

Who buys your jewelry? My line has

something for everyone. Making unique, one-of-a-kind items makes my customers feel unique themselves. n

Hiller JessJewelry, Leigh Jewels, 923 Metairie JessLeighJewels.com Road, 837-8200, HillerJewelry.com

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cheryl gerber photographs

SHOP TALK

By Mirella Cameran

NOLA Couture Cecile Hardy, Owner/Designer

How did NOLA Couture start? After

Katrina, I moved back to New Orleans from San Francisco to help in the rebuilding. Designing New Orleans-inspired prints in fun, vibrant colors was a way to celebrate and support the city’s unique culture and help lift spirits.

Why is there a demand for it? No one

else has created a whole brand of accessories around the iconography of the city. People wear our items with pride, from expats around the world to tourists who take a part of New Orleans with them.

Does it only appeal to people from the South? We have customers all

over the world. If people love New Orleans, like vibrant colors and upscale accessories, they love our brand. We get a kick out of selling to people from Italy, France, Australia, Japan and elsewhere.

How has business been? Great, even

during the usual summer retail lull, we’re busy with custom designs for groups such as the Sugar Bowl,

Mardi Gras krewes, Follow Your NOLA, restaurants, schools and nonprofits.

How many retail outlets do you have? When we started in 2006

we designed and manufactured for other stores. We opened our first store in ’12 in the French Quarter, then on Magazine Street in ’13 and we’ve just opened a larger store three doors away from our first location.

What’s your personal favorite? It changes, but right now, it’s the Etouffée Orange Mini-Gulf Oyster Tie. What else makes you special? We make the majority of our products right here in New Orleans! n

NOLA Couture 2928 Magazine St., 319-5959, 542 St. Peter St., 875-3522, NolaCouture.com

cheryl gerber photographs

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snapshots

by Shelby Simon

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1. The H.O.P.E. Foundation for a Better Tomorrow and The Soldiers Angels Fund partnered to host a charitable fundraiser and silent auction at The Crossing in Kenner to provide scholarships to at-risk youth and support the men and women in our military. Pictured are Stephanie Scaruffi, Janet Scaruffi and James Scaruffi of The Soldiers Angels Fund and Kathy and Lou DiCocco of The H.O.P.E. Foundation. 2. On Thursday, July 24, the American Cancer Society invited the Greater New Orleans community to join them at its kickoff event and patron party to celebrate the 14th annual “Belles & Beaus Ball.” The ACS’ mission is to save lives and create more birthdays by helping people stay well, get well, find cures and fight back. Pictured are the Belles honorees: (front) Evie Poitevent, Coral Maher, Nerissa Wood, Liz Cabrera and Patricia Denechaud, (back) Dr. Michele Cooper, Katie Kelly, Holley Haag, Jill Fitzpatrick and Janet DellaCroce. 3. The American Cancer Society announced the 20 honored “Belles & Beaus” during the kickoff event at The Shops at Canal Place. This year’s honorees are individuals who have made significant contributions in the fight against cancer and represent survivors, volunteers, community members and healthcare professionals. Pictured are the Beaus honorees: (front) Gary Solomon Jr., Dr. William Robinson, Ryan Messina, Lou Grossman, (back) Robert LeBlanc, Erik Frank, Tom Hancock and Will Bryant. 4. Patron Party Chairs Allison Shapiro, director of technology & communications for Krispy Krunchy Foods, LLC and Carla Adams, director of marketing for The Shops at Canal Place with Dr. Kathleen Sullivan at the American Cancer Society’s 14th annual “Belles & Beaus Ball” on July 24. 5. “Satchmo SummerFest Reception” on Thursday, July 31, in the Hotel Monteleone Riverview Room. Over 150 attended the celebration to kick-off the 14th annual fest presented by Chevron. Pictured are keynote speaker and Ricky and Margaret Riccardi. Photo by Rachel June 6. Michael Cogswell and Dale Van Dyke with Joni Berry and Stephen Maitland-Lewis from the sponsoring organization, the Joseph K. & Inez Eichenbaum Foundation, at the “Satchmo SummerFest Reception” on Thursday, July 31. The event showcases the unique culture and heritage of our unique city, contributes to the economic wellbeing of the community and instills increased pride in the people of New Orleans. 7. New Orleans Antiques Forum’s “Southern Expression,” presented by The Historic New Orleans Collection ran July 31-August 3. Topics this year

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included furniture, pottery, mourning jewelry and art, southern landscape paintings, clocks, quilts and more. Pictured are THNOC Executive Director Priscilla Lawrence and Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne. Photo by Melissa Carrier 8. 2014 New Orleans Antiques Forum scholarship recipients: Lea Lane, Cultural Institute of the South 2014 fellow, Winterthur Program in American Material Culture, University of Delaware; Rachel Harmeyer, Rice University; Caryne Eskridge, Cultural Institute of the South coordinator; and Katie McKinney, Cultural Institute of the South 2014 fellow, Winterthur Program in American Material Culture, University of Delaware; with THNOC Curator of Decorative Arts Lydia Blackmore; and 2014 NOAF scholarship recipient James Newton, Tulane University. The evening reception explored the question, “What makes the South a place apart?” and explored southern expression with acclaimed experts in the field. Photo by Melissa Carrier 9. Guests danced the night away at the “Belle Reve Breeze Gala” presented by Avita Drugs on August 23 at Generations Hall. The event supported Belle Reve’s mission “to provide permanent and transitional housing along with full support services to adults and families living with AIDS or HIV-related infections.” 10.

Jen Kelley, Mel Ziegler, Jenniver Jones and Becky Ziegler enjoyed the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s “We Live to Eat” Restaurant Week benefiting the LRA Education Foundation on Wednesday, September 3, at The Chicory. The event featured delectable bites from many top New Orleans restaurants, door prizes, giveaways and a chef dance competition.

11. Lighthouse and Development Director Angela Dorvin and John Davis at “Save Our Lake & Coast Fishing Rodeo” held on September 5 and 6 at the New Canal Lighthouse. Eighty registrants, including 15 youth, fished throughout the Pontchartrain Basin and brought in their catches to the Weigh Station to see whose fish tale reigns supreme. 12. One of 15 youth participants displaying his redfish catch. Each youth registrant received a rod and reel, and all participants received a rodeo tee shirt with their registration. There were several children’s activities, including LDWLF Casting Game and an education table. The event was a swimming success and the proceeds benefit the restoration and preservation of the entire Pontchartrain Basin.

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advertising section

luxury gift guide

Chatta Box 504/454-1527 To have your woman feeling confident and sassy this holiday season, stop

by Chatta Box for this LBD from Torn by Ronny Kobo paired with jewelry from Virgins Saints & Angels.

Feet First • 504/899-6800 BLEU, a Blowdry Bar • 504/309-5999 Give the gift of fabulous hair this holiday season with a Gift Card to BLEU! Gift Cards are good towards everything BLEU has to offer: blowouts, add-on services, products, memberships, bar tabs and even gratuity.

Luxurious Italian leather boots by Sesto Meucci feel like butter in your hands – and pillows on your feet. Tall or low, you’ll be cruising in style – and comfort – around town in these classic, sophisticated styles available at Feet First.

Cristy’s Collection • 504/407-5041 Have a little faith, Saints Fans. Show off your spirit with Cristy Cali’s Couture Charms, compatible with major brands such as Pandora.

Create your own bracelet at Adler’s or find a retailer near you at CristyCali.com.

Gia’s Boutique • 504/302-9655 Hiller Jewelry 504/837-8200

No gift is more luxurious than this 14 karat white gold diamond bar necklace from Hiller Jewelry!

The fur vest is this season’s most sought after piece. Available in a variety of colors, they make the perfect gift for this holiday season. saintcharlesavenue.com | 95

advertising section

CeCe Shoe 504/269-6464 Give the gift of luxurious sleep en voyage with this three-piece set from Charlotte Olympia, including satin kitty slippers with a matching eye mask and zip pouch.

Rug Chic 985/674-1070 This ‘John Hodge Virgin Mary Vase’ makes a beautiful gift for the home!

Cella’s 504/592-7510 Magazine St. 504/529-5110 Saint Peter St. This gorgeous amethyst necklace by local designer Brantley Cecilia is the perfect holiday accessory or gift for any New Orleans girl.

Wren’ts Tontine • 504/525-7409 Mimi 504/269-6464 Maison Francis Kurkdjian Globetrotter travel perfume canister in zinc - A sculptural zinc case with a magnetized cap, holding 11 ML canister of perfume from the world-renowned Maison Francis Kurkdjian collection.

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Boudreaux’s • 504/831-2602 2.02 total carat weight Cushion Cut Fancy Yellow Diamond with .80 carats of white diamonds surrounding in 18 karat gold

Really dress up the bathroom with a decorative shower curtain with a gathered rod pocket scalloped valance with banding.

The fabric is a tone-on-tone silk damask. The panel, banding and tiebacks are a solid taupe colored silk.

advertising section

Haute Women’s Boutique • 504/522-8687 Perfect holiday gift is a vintage, one-of-a-kind pair of earrings by Dora Mae. “It’s easy being green” – 1940s antique brass and green enamel shoe clips paired with rhinestone deco pendants. Please contact store for price.

Gallery 3954 504/400-9032

Trashy Diva 504/299-3939 Shimmer with the season in brilliant red vintage-inspired jewelry by De Lux from Trashy Diva.

“Adele Spesteyn Totems” – a fresh and colorful art addition to any interior

Saint Germain 504/522-1720 Be sure to stop by Saint Germain during their Jewelry Fragment Show Dec 12th & 13th from 10am-7pm. They will be featuring fashion jewelry and fine jewelry, right in time for your holiday shopping!

Art & Eyes 504/891-4494

Pelican Coast • 504/309-2314

The red sunglasses by Barton Perreria are USA designed, hand made in Japan from the world’s finest acetate. The Oliver Goldsmith sunglasses, London – Design 1964 for Twiggy, are hand made in Italy to the original specs.

Pelican Coast Clothing is for those who treasure the coastal lifestyle. Our signature ties are designed locally, made with 100 percent silk. Whether you’re wearing the iconic NOLA water meter, oysters and pearls or a variety of coastal fishing ties, expect your best days to be in our clothes. saintcharlesavenue.com | 97

advertising section

The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk 504/522-4269

Clover • 504/272-0792

Sweater and clutch by Milly

This holiday season, load up on armfuls of sumptuous cashmere for him and her, the perfect luxury gift.

LastCall.com/Studios

Emma’s Shoes and Accessories 504/407-0668 Old Metairie • 985/778-2200 Mandeville Smooth, sleek and silky, these handbags move with grace and fluidity. They capture the light, they capture the eye, they capture hearts. See how functionality still stays top of mind with adjustable straps and convenient interior pockets.

The Linen Registry 504/831-8228 Your perfect Christmas morning attire of a chocolate printed frog nightshirt with fuchsia piping and matching fuchsia robe!

NOLA Couture 504/319-5959 Uptown 504/875-3522 French Quarter

FeBe • 504/835-5250 Beige leopard peacoat by Milly skinny cropped leather leggings by Vince

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Pick up a beautiful NOLA Couture tie this holiday season. These classic prints, designed by the original New Orleans inspired tie company, celebrate the city where we were born and bred. Established in 2006, NOLACouture’s ties feature motifs like the pelican, oyster, streetcar, and the quintessential fleur-de-lis.

advertising section

Jade • 504/875-4420 Mint Uptown Salon 504/304-6225

Carrara marble serving pieces.

The bold statement everyone needs for holiday entertaining.

A bracelet or necklace with the longitude and latitude of New Orleans is a wonderful and personal holiday gift!

Available at Mint in several finishes and widths.

Custom orders for any location in the world (how about the Superdome?) are also available!

Ballin’s LTD. 504/891-4502 Magazine St. 504/866-4367 Dante St. Stop by Ballin’s LTD to find one of Ray Cole’s uniquely hand painted silk scarves.

Louisiana Custom Closets 985/871-0810 For a closet short on space, Louisiana Custom Closets offers the closet mirror.

Fastening to a side partition, our mirror uses only three inches of horizontal space and pulls out on full extension, ball bearing slides, swiveling ninety degrees. Dimension: 48-incheshigh-by-13.5inches wide; full body image when standing 24 inches from mirror.

Judy at the Rink 504/891-7018 Tiled side table featuring a water meter that can also be personalized with New Orleans street tiles.

Yvonne LaFleur • 504/866-9666 The Ultimate Luxury: Yvonne LaFleur Signature Fragrance. Eau de Parfum Spray, Lotion, Bath Gel, Powder and Soy Candle.

Cashmere and fur lined cape, socks and robes available in multiple colors.

CatholicJoureys.com 504/834-4951 The Spirit of Christmas is all around us!

An Extraordinary Journey makes an Extraordinary Gift!

Joins us aboard the Luxurious Silver Spirit October 3-18, 2015.

saintcharlesavenue.com | 99

performing arts

By Lauren LaBorde

Performance Calendar DECEMBER 2-21 Twelfth Night; Or, What You Will The NOLA Project takes over NOMA’s Great Hall in an immersive production of the Shakespeare comedy. The NOLA

Project, New Orleans Museum of Art, 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle, 302-9117, NOLAProject.com

5-21 A Christmas Carol

Scott Sauber directs the musical based on Charles Dickens’ classic story. Rivertown Theaters

for the Performing Arts, 325 Minor St., Kenner, 461-9475, RivertownTheaters.com 5-21 A Christmas Carol

The classic story gets an update with contemporary Christmas carols. Harold X. Evans stars as Scrooge. Anthony Bean

Community Theater, 1333 South Carrollton Ave., 862-7529, AnthonyBeanTheater.com 5-21 The Acro-Cats: A Very Meowy Christmas A touring troupe of trained cats perform adorable feats and play music in the “Rock Cats” band. Marigny Theater,

2240 St. Claude Ave., 218-5778, CircusCats.com

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6 “Cirque de Noel” The concert combines holiday favorites with stunning feats by aerial flyers, acrobats, jugglers and other circus artists. Louisiana Philharmonic

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

18 “Baroque Christmas: Outside the Bachs” The LPO’s holiday concert features the New Orleans Vocal Art Chorale and other vocalists and culminates with selections from Handel’s Messiah.

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, First Baptist Church New Orleans, 5290 Canal Blvd., 523-6530, LPOMusic.com 20-21 The Nutcracker

Ballet Hysell presents the ballet. Jefferson Performing

Arts Center, 1118 Clearview Parkway, 885-2000, JPAS.org

23 Lightwire Theater’s A Very Electric Christmas

The group that appeared on “America’s Got Talent” presents their glow-in-the-dark holiday show that uses electroluminescent wire. Joy Theater,

1200 Canal St., 528-9569, TheJoyTheater.com

A STUNNING COLLECTION OF 50 TRADITIONAL (AND SOME NON-TRADITIONAL) LOUISIANA RECIPES. AN ABSOLUTE MUST HAVE FOR YOUR KITCHEN, OR THE PERFECT GIFT FOR A LOUISIANA FOOD LOVER.

Author Stanley Dry — Louisiana Life “Kitchen Gourmet” columnist, former senior editor of Food & Wine magazine and accomplished cook — brings history, culture and spice together in his first book, The Essential Louisiana Cookbook, a Louisiana Life product by Renaissance Publishing. From classics, such as red beans and rice and a variety of delectable gumbos, to modern creations sure to become weeknight traditions, this collection of recipes will be a go-to for native Louisianans and those new to the state’s rich culinary landscape.

$16.95 TO ORDER VISIT LOUISIANACOOKBOOK.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.

102 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

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 ..............$4,500,000 521 Gov. Nicholls................SOLD...............$3,750,000 8 La Salle Place ....................SOLD...............$3,650,000 4831 St. Charles Avenue................................$2,625,000 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 2600 Gay lynn Drive ......................................$1,950,000 841 Barracks Street .............SOLD...............$1,850,000 1427 Eighth Street ..............SOLD...............$1,850,000 7 Rosa Park...................................................... $1,800,000 1518 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,750,000 1328 Felicity Street ..............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1538 Fourth Street ..............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1415 Cadiz Street ...............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1800 Jefferson .................................................$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 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...............$1,370,000 447 Audubon Street ........... SOLD ..............$1,300,000 9 Blanc Place ........................SOLD...............$1,300,000 1578 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD...............$1,300,000 1207 State Street ..................SOLD...............$1,250,000 571 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,220,000 1539 Soniat Street ...............SOLD...............$1,220,000 6554 Oakland Drive............SOLD...............$1,200,000 441 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,199,000

4901 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,100,000 2006 Jefferson Avenue........SOLD...............$1,100,000 17 Chateau Palmer ..............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 1443 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD.................. $789,000 2818 Laurel Street..............................................$775,000 405 Exposition Blvd ...........SOLD.................. $755,000 630 Eleonore Street.............SOLD...................$695,000 282 Audubon Street...........................................$625,000 3330 Jefferson Avenue...................................... $599,000 7605 Claiborne......................SOLD........ .........$520,000 2511 St Charles Avenue #505........SOLD ..... $465,000 7337 W. Roadway Street ......3 Slips.................... $25,000 6257 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge..SOLD ..$2,200,000 71607 Riverside Dr., Covington...................$1,350,000

11 Arbor Circle................................$1,295,000 10 Swan .......................SOLD.... ... $1,300,000 1440 Camp St.............SOLD........$1,245,000 22 Farnham..................SOLD........$1,245,000 500 Audubon .............SOLD.... ...... $998,000 5232 Chestnut ...........SOLD.... ...... $920,000 1566 Calhoun .............SOLD.... ...... $875,000 5111 Pitt .......................SOLD.... .......$749,000 1240 Eighth .................SOLD.... ...... $725,000 208 English Turn.........SOLD .......... $699,000 920 Poeyfarre, PH6..........................$657,500 328 Julia.......................SOLD.... ...... $595,000 6313 Laurel .................SOLD.... ...... $568,000 6308 Camp .................SOLD.... ...... $549,000 6219 Magazine St......SOLD.... ...... $530,000 3801 St. Charles............SOLD..............$499,000 1750 St. Charles #529...SOLD.............$495,000 924 Bellecastle ..... .....SOLD.......... . $485,000 234 Audubon.............SOLD............$479,000 2824 Calhoun..........................................$449,000 8233 Freret St ............SOLD.... ...... $445,000 700 S. Peters ...............SOLD.... ...... $428,000 6300 Colbert St ..........SOLD.... .......$419,000 4 Stilt .............................SOLD.... .......$415,000 4440 Bienville .............SOLD.... ...... $399,000 915 Cadiz .....................SOLD.... ...... $396,000 4930 S. Johnson........SOLD............$385,000 4329 Cohn St.............(COM)............$339,900 625 Pine St #2............SOLD.............$330,000 1826 Milan St.....................................$275,000 1418 N. Villere.............SOLD............$255,000 Lots at Arbors Estates ...............from $95,000

saintcharlesavenue.com | 103

new orleans nostalgia

By Seale Paterson

Lasting Legend The legacy of the 1984 Louisiana’s World Fair For all its artistic and entertainment successes, the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair was an economic failure. Disappointing attendance caused over $120 million in losses, with many participating businesses failing and lawsuits that continued for more than five years.

That doesn’t mean the Fair didn’t find success with one of its initial and most important objectives: Increasing tourism to New Orleans. It helped secure extra money to enlarge the Convention Center and to hurry the completion of new hotel rooms. The failure of the Fair to keep those rooms occupied taught New Orleans hoteliers the

importance of marketing and sparked the creation of the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corp.

Another side effect of the Fair was the revitalization of the Warehouse District and the Riverfront. Preparation for the Fair included over $25 million in infrastructure repairs to streets, lights and drainage.

Historic but fragile buildings in the Warehouse District received much needed preservation work. The Federal Fibre Mills, which served as a beer garden during the Fair, was converted to apartments and is credited for beginning the trend into renovating the area for residency. Julia Street’s revital-

104 | St. Charles Avenue December 2014

ization into an area brimming with art galleries is also attributed to work started during the Fair.

The Riverfront was opened to the public in a new way during the Fair, especially with the International Pavilion, which was built specifically to become the Riverwalk shopping mall after the Fair ended. Ron Forman of the Audubon Institute cited the good memories the public had from those riverfront experiences in helping to raise funds to develop

Woldenberg Park and build the Aquarium.

While the Fair may not have been directly responsible for the revitalization of downtown areas, it is cited as the impetus to the increased tourism, renovation and return to residential usage that continues today. n Note: This is last part of a yearlong focus on the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair.

Riverwalk’s Grand Opening was a five-day affair, starting on Thursday, August 28, 1986. A parade on Canal Street kicked off the first day, followed by a dedication and musical salute. An afternoon riverboat parade was followed by a performance by Allen Toussaint and fireworks over the Mississippi River. Daily concerts, demonstrations, and fireworks continued until Monday. Toussaint is on the left of this photo, standing next to Mayor Ernest Morial.

Image provided courtesy of the New Orleans Public Library.