St. Charles Avenue July 2013

july 2013

MAGAZINE

Young Leadership Council Executive Director Curry Smith, 2013 “Role Model Gala” Chair Serina Phoenix and YLC Board President Richard Pavlick for the YLC’s 2013 “Role Model Gala.”

on the cover

The Young Leadership Council will hold its annual “Role Model Gala” to recognize individuals who keep New Orleans “young” by serving as such to young professionals.

This year, the event will honor 25 New Orleanians on Saturday, August 10, at the Hyatt Regency.

Chair Serina Phoenix, Board President Richard Pavlick and Executive Director Curry Smith will begin the black-tie evening with a patron party and exclusive “Role Model Meet and Greet” at 8 Block Restaurant, which will be followed by dinner and the awards ceremony in the Empire Ballroom. Guests will polish off the night with dancing and entertainment following the presentation of awards.

All proceeds will benefit the YLC’s efforts to “recruit and retain young professionals to New Orleans” and “have a positive impact on the quality of life in the region” through volunteer-created community projects. With more than 1,300 “member-volunteers,” the YLC is the oldest independent young professionals’ organization in the county and has raised more than $25 million to support community projects in the greater New Orleans area since 1986.

For more information and to purchase tickets, call 585-1500, extension 201, or visit YLCNola.org. F

Nude Shoes for Every Occasion

Voted

Gambit™ Best of New Orleans—Shoe Store Four years running – 2009 – 2010 – 2011 – 2012

For hours and store information, visit us at

4122 Magazine St & 526 Royal St

Photographed by Jeffery Johnston Special thanks to Juliana Anderson Wilkins, Development and Communications Manager for the Young Leadership Council.

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 1

table of contents

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20 features 20 Under the City Lights

UNCF and Liberty Bank and Trust Co. have a “Ball in the City.”

22 Sensing Style

The Men and Women of Fashion honor 20 “Best Dressed” honorees.

24 Lighthouse Expands

and Succeeds

Lighthouse Louisiana holds its annual fundraiser at Arnaud’s.

26 Looking to Luau?

NCJW’s annual fundraiser brings “Hawaiian Paradise” to New Orleans.

28 No Pinches Necessary

Raintree Children and Family Services “Paint the Town Green.”

30 Fundraising for Our Future

41 Taking it Easy in the Big Easy

32 A Caring Cotillion

Bridge House/Grace House’s “Cochon Cotillion XVII” calls for costumes.

Pamper yourself this summer

By Elizabe t h h e i de man

44 Special Section:

Home Summer Spotlight

Local experts weigh in on the latest and greatest in interior design trends.

34 Honoring Greats Among Us

46 Special Section:

East Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary fêted eight activists at their annual luncheon.

36 A Big Spender Delights

Audiences

Young Audiences of Louisiana presents “Dancing for the Arts.”

38 Angelic Accolades

2 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

City Year New Orleans holds its annual “School House Rock.”

Project Lazarus honors its “Guardian Angels.”

by Kelcy Wil b ur n

Summer Gallery Guide

From slow strolls to exciting auctions, find a way to enjoy the visual arts this summer.

by Kelcy Wil b ur n

table of contents

53

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18 standards 8 A Note From Bev

48 Entertaining With Bev

54 Shop Talk

b y s h e l b y we s t f eldt

12 Skin Deep

Brushing the Issue: Finding the right brush for your hair.

50 With This Ring

By Cat Wall Aschaffenburg

10 Cruisin’ the Crescent

14 What’s Hot: Summer Style

b y M o r g an Packa rd

16 On the Menu

Sweetly Strawberry: Chef Joey Wells of Roux on Orleans cools us down with his Atole de Fresa.

18 The Dish

Every Man a Fish

b y Gwe n d o l y n K na pp

Taking the Party With You: A “girls only” dinner party in Highlands, N.C. by be v ch urch

Grady – Adams

by Mallory Lindsly

52 Young Bloods

Ameca Relai and Adrienne K. Wheeler – Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana

by Lindsay Mack

53 Student Activist

4 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Evelyn Frances Brooks – Academy of the Sacred Heart

by Mallory Lindsly

Bee Fitzpatrick & Dabney Jacob – Orient Expressed

by Mirella C ame r an

55 Shop Talk

Mary Coxe – Martin Lawrence Galleries

by Mirella C ame r an

58 Snapshots 60 Schooldays

64 Nostalgia

Occupying Summer: New Orleans kept kids cool and occupied during the 1930s.

by Se ale P ate r so n

Volume 17 Issue 1

Editorial Executive Editor Bev Church Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Beauty Columnist Cat Wall Aschaffenburg Society Columnist Shelby Westfeldt Associate Editors Haley Adams, Lauren LaBorde Intern Shannon Donaldson Advertising Sales Manager Jill Varney (504) 830-7219, Jill@MyNewOrleans.com Account Executive Brittany Brady Sales Assistant Erin Azar Production/Web Manager Staci McCarty Production Designer Antoine Passelac Administration Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive Vice President/Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde Executive Assistant Kristi Ferrante Distribution Manager Christian Coombs Subscriptions Erin Duhe (504) 830-7231

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

The entire contents of this magazine are copyrighted by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 2013 with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. St. Charles Avenue is not responsible for photos or artwork and assumes that all releases have been cleared upon submission to the magazine. St. Charles Avenue is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Blvd., Ste. 123, Metairie, La. 70005, (504) 828-1380. It is the policy of this magazine to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

6 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

on the web

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saintcharlesavenue.com & myneworleans.com

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

Visit us online, and be sure to check out our new look, as well as our award-winning blogs:

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

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

R Fridays: Eve Kidd Crawford – award-winning blogger and former Renaissance Publishing editor – writes about what it means to be a family in New Orleans.

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

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

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

events

a note from bev

JULY 17-21 11th annual “Tales of the Cocktail,” 948-0511

Antonio Mata, Bev, chef Edgar Caro and Thomas Peters for Basin Seafood & Spirits, located at 3222 Magazine St. between Pleasant and Harmony streets and open Tuesday through Sunday. You can call 302-7391 (and read below) for more information.

19 ”Wear White for Peace and Unity,” benefiting the Colombian Volunteers of New Orleans, 881-7645, colombiavnola@gmail.com 21 & 22 “The Attic Sale,” benefiting Temple Sinai Sisterhood, 432-5322 AUGUST 1-4 “New Orleans Antiques Forum,” benefiting The Historic New Orleans Collection Williams Research Center, 523-4662

Every time I look at the Mississippi River Bridge with the incredible lights, I think of the Young Leadership Council and all that they’ve done to keep young people interested in staying in New Orleans and contributing to our overall well being!

This month’s cover features the YLC’s “Role Model Awards Gala,” which will be held on Aug. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Thanks so much to our cover models: gala chair Serina Phoenix, YLC board president Richard Pavlick and YLC executive director Curry Smith. This year the YLC is honoring 25 New Orleanians who are role models to young professionals. You don’t want to miss this event! Please call 585-1500, extension 201 for more information and tickets.

In 1986, a group of businesspeople, including Charlie Leche, John Landrum and Chris Johnsen, along with 18 others, founded the YLC. Through volunteer-created community projects, the YLC recruits and retains young professionals to New Orleans and has a positive impact on the quality of life in the region. They have raised over $25 million to support community projects, and each community initiative is led by one

or more volunteer project leaders!

All of us who are staying in New Orleans for the summer should get to treat ourselves to something new to update our style, so check out “What’s Hot for Summer Style,” where you can find great ideas from new shoes to a cabinet for a room that needs a little pizzazz.

Speaking of treating ourselves, be sure to look at our feature on pampering, which includes tips and treats from local spas sure to whet your whistle for a little “you time.”

If you thought that we had given you enough ideas – oh no!

We also have a special section on kitchens, bathrooms and closets and another on local galleries to keep you busy and comfortable during our long summer.

For all of you who are taking a hiatus from the heat, my column will give you lots of ideas for a dinner party in the mountains.

Every year there’s a group of girls who go to Highlands, N.C., for a few days. Each is responsible for creating a dinner for one night.

This is an eclectic idea that anyone can duplicate!

There is a new restaurant in town co-owned by one of my “almost children,” Thomas Peters.

Our son, Ford Church, and Peters

8 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

have been lifelong friends. His new restaurant, Basin Seafood & Spirits, features fabulous seafood dishes created by his partner and chef, Edgar Caro. They have crawfish bisque with stuffed heads that are magnificent, charbroiled oysters, tuna tartare ... Oh, and the bartenders have made up drinks that are unique and “to die for!”

The address is 3222 Magazine St., right across from Walgreens. Just a note: Thomas Peters is also a member of the 610 Stompers who do all of that dancing for so many great causes – all the more reason to support their new restaurant!

Whatever you’re doing this summer, have a safe and fun time and enjoy time with your family and friends – before you know it school will be starting and the routine will be back, so savor every moment! F

3 “Whitney White Linen Night,” benefiting the Contemporary Arts Center, 528-3800 5 Ninth annual “East St. Tammany Red Beans ‘N Rice Cook-Off,” benefiting the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, (985) 778-0815 or email jamieb@ unitedwaysela.org 10 “YLC Role Models Awards Gala,” benefiting the Young Leadership Council, 585-1500 extension 201 24 “101 Donations,” benefiting NOLA City Bark, 438-9377 27 & 28 “The Jimmy Fundraiser @ 45,” benefiting 45 Tchoup Loves Jimmy, 891-9066

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., Suite 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:

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 9

cruisin’the crescent On my way back from a recent weekend in Mississippi with my family, I became very nostalgic upon passing the Louisiana state welcome sign.

I remembered all the summers I drove home from college and the feelings I got when I saw “Bienvenue en Louisiane.” Once I passed that sign, I knew how close I was to smelling the Confederate jasmine, seeing the magnolias in bloom and sipping on a pre-made daiquiri right from the machine.

As I reminisced about my journeys home from school, I suddenly got a hankering for a daiquiri. So, I turned to my fiancé and asked if we could grab one on our way into town. (I mean, it’s summer, and in the summer there should be no guilt for consuming this colorful frozen concoction.

To a New Orleanian the calories in a daiquiri are nonexistent when the thermometer hits 80 degrees.)

His faced looked a little confused,

By Shelby Westfeldt

but he agreed to stop and get one with me. Once we stepped into the shop I knew why he was confused. He moved here a year ago, and as much as I’ve tried to emerge him in our culture, I’d never taken him to get a daiquiri! He had no clue places like that existed.

There are three things that make up the ambiance of a daiquiri shop: cigarette smoke, video poker machines and the biggest plastic foam cups you’ve ever seen. It may be odd to an outsider, but to us those components help make up the daiquiri experience. I ordered a strawberry and my better half ordered a “190 O.” I didn’t have the heart to tell him it wasn’t “orange” flavored, plus I really wanted to see his reaction when he had his first sip and realized “O” stood for “Octane.”

So, with summer upon us New Orleans, keep your houses cold and your cocktails colder! F

10 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

The Great Gatsby wasn’t only a movie that came out this year, it was also the theme for the Sybarites annual spring event. The Sybarites, an all-women’s organization founded in the 1950s, chose Antoine’s as the venue to hold their “Trip Back to the Roaring Twenties: Gatsby Style” soirée.

The guests, who all arrived wearing traditional 1920s fashion, were asked to enter the party at the “Speakeasy” entrance of Antoine’s, located at 725 St. Louis St. Once inside the ladies and their dates noshed on soufflé potatoes and crawfish Cardinal before enjoying a dinner of Antoine’s signature dishes: oysters Rockefeller and trout amandine. The Moonshiners Jazz Band kept the party hoping before the dessert finale of what else? Baked Alaska!

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1. Sybarites president Carli Tessier with her husband Frank and vice president Marilyn Aiken with her husband David 2.

Brittany and Clancy Stumpf 3. Sybarites president Carli Tessier and Kathy Singleton 4. Adrienne and John Rynning with Kimberly Armatis and Paul and Renee Masinter. 5. Sybarites original founder Marjorie Bradley (center) poses with Al Gooch and Karen Reily. 6. Elizabeth Woolverton and Renee Masinter.

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Heard something interesting for “cruisin’ the crescent?”

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

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 11

skin deep

By Cat Wall Aschaffenburg

easily. Moreover, it has the great advantage of being the perfect choice for children, as it eases the difficulty of untangling their hair without pulling.

Boar bristle brushes are amazing as they make your hair look healthier. They are the perfect choice for thick hair, which is so hard to manage. Boar bristles also stimulate and clean the scalp.

Large, Round Brush

Brushing the Issue Finding the right brush for your hair.

I always thought a brush is a brush is a brush, but recently I was gifted a pricey boar bristle hairbrush, one I would’ve never purchased myself, and I’m sold!

All along I could’ve been working smart for my hair rather than against it. We all tend to invest in hair styling tools and expensive products in our quest for perfect hair. While product is certainly very important, so is taking time to choose the correct hairbrush; the wrong brush can totally ruin the health of your hair.

The key thing to look for in a brush is to find one for your hair type, making sure you find a brush that’s gentle to your scalp while making your hair look healthier and smoother. Of course, there are

numerous types of brushes, styles and materials – each and every one having properties that can help solve hair issues.

Some essential things to remember: never brush wet hair, always get a brush that isn’t too stiff and if your brush is damaged at all – even if just one of the ball tips is missing – then it’s time to replace it. For a quick go-to guide, I’ve listed the four basics below:

Vent Brush A vent brush is a thinner brush made from a light plastic or ceramic. This type of brush is easy to handle, and it can easily replace the comb. It is suitable for different hair types and lengths.

Moreover, it’s easy to clean and

12 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

the ball tipped bristles allow hair removal on the brush without too much effort, while the large holes allow air to move freely through the brush and therefore making the drying process easier.

Use a vent brush as a finishing styling step. Apply a soft layer of hairspray on the brush and pass it through your hair in order to emphasize hair movement. This will also help you to add some texture to your hair.

Boar Bristle Brush A boar bristle hairbrush is the best option when you want to add some volume. This rigid yet nonaggressive fiber protects fragile hair and limits static energy. Its thick bristles help you untangle hair

Long, straight hair seems to always be in style. For this, you need a super large round brush, which allows you to smooth larger locks.

You can go for a brush made from a combination of synthetic and boar bristles that will make your long hair look soft and shiny and will stimulate your scalp. If you choose a ceramic brush, this will accelerate the drying process.

Paddle Brush A larger, wide-toothed paddle cushion brush with bamboo ball tipped bristles allows you to gently untangle knots. Its air cushion softens the untangling process, acting gently on hair and scalp. Its ergonomic handle makes untangling easier. If your hair is very frizzy, start untangling from the ends towards the roots.

If you have medium hair, use a cushion brush to smooth hair without adding volume. If you go for wood, remember that this is a natural heat conductor and is why it reduces the drying time and neutralizes static electricity.

Cushion brushes are the perfect choice for fragile and damaged hair, and they can also be used on fine hair.

With the right tool, your hair can get the right finish in half the time! F

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 13

what’s hot

{

By morgan packard

Summer Style

}

Summer in New Orleans is often so hot that it’s difficult to move, much less make a change to your routine – but that’s why it’s so important to do so. Adding even one of these six warm-weather additions to your home or wardrobe will make you feel cooler, if not in temperature then at least when sitting in your home’s air conditioning, or running from air conditioned vehicle to shop to restaurant – or whatever is your favorite summer activity.

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1. Dreaming of the sea and time spent in and near it is often a summer pastime. Bring a little of the sea into your home with this “Southern Lady” bust decorated with oyster shells, Galena, agate and aquamarine. Rivers Spencer Interiors, 4610 Magazine St., 609-2436, RiversSpencer.com 2. For the perfect summer night out, including a bit of white is always in style. This summer white “Mini Affair” handbag with rose gold hardware by Rebecca Minkoff is just the right touch and goes with any outfit from shorts to a maxi dress. FeBe, 474 Metairie Road, Suite 102, Metairie, 835-5250, FeBeClothing.com 3. When boots are too hot and heels are too high, the appropriate footwear has to be sandals. These classic Bernardo sandal silhouettes come in brightly colored leathers to go with any outfit in comfort. Feet First Shoes, Handbags & Accessories, 4122 Magazine St., 899-6800; 526 Royal St., 569-0005; FeetFirstStores.com 14 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

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4. Adding a fountain to your front or back yard will not only make you feel cooler as you listen and watch the water dance, it can also serve as a water garden.

Brian’s Furniture also offers “the largest inventory of sugar kettles, fountains and cast aluminum items in the South.” Brian’s Furniture, 515 Court St., Port Allen, (225) 346-0896, BriansFurniture.com

5. Sometimes the best solution to a problem is to sleep on it. Do so in comfort and style with these down sleep pillows available in a multitude of sizes and firmness choices. The Linen Registry, 204 Metairie Road, Metairie, 831-8228

6. Bring a little luxury into your home with the “Wilhelm” cabinet. Inspired by the Taj Mahal, it features a white gesso finish and matching sliding doors with a raised hexagonal detail. Each one is hand-finished by artisans and has easy access and ventilation panels so you can store your media within it. Eclectic Home, 8211 Oak St., 866-6654, EclecticHome.net July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 15

on the menu

Sweetly Strawberry Chef Joey Wells of Roux on Orleans cools us down with his Atole de Fresa.

16 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

photographed by jeffery johnston

recipe Atole de Fresa (strawberry dessert soup) 2 pints fresh strawberries, sliced 1 1/4 cups sugar 2 cups water 1 2/3 cups (or 6 ounces) masa harina (corn flour) 2 cups buttermilk 1 vanilla bean, split in half lengthwise 1 stick canella or other stick 1/2 cup sweetened whipped cream Fresh mint sprigs In a blender or food processor combine strawberries and 1/2-cup sugar. Cover and blend or process until smooth and set aside.

In a small saucepan, combine water and masa harina. Whisk until well mixed, then strain mixture though a fine mesh sieve. Return mixture to saucepan.

Cook and stir over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes or until thickened.

Reduce heat to low, stir in buttermilk, 3/4-cup sugar, vanilla bean, cinnamon stick and puréed strawberries. Cook for 5 minutes more. If necessary, thin soup with milk (the mixture should be thick but pourable).

Cover and chill for 2 hours. Before serving, remove vanilla bean and cinnamon stick; scrape bean and return seeds to mixture.

Divide soup among small dessert bowls.

Garnish with sweetened whip cream and fresh mint.

Serves 6. F

*Chef Wells will be helming a San Fermin Spanish Wine Dinner on July 11 at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel; for more information, visit BourbonOrleans.com/ SpanishWineDinner.

WEDNESDAY July 10, 2013 W HOTEL | NEW ORLEANS

{

717 Orleans St. | 523-2222 BourbonOrleans.com/ Roux-On-Orleans

}

ZINE

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AGA NS M RLEA

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11:30 Champagne Reception 12:00 Luncheon & Program FOR MORE INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS

Kristi Ferrante: 504.830.7264 Kristi@MyNewOrleans.com TICKETS

$25 Each | $250 Table of 10 All proceeds benefit Grace House.

THIBODAUX REGIONAL®

MEDICAL CENTER

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 17

the dish

By Gwendolyn Knapp

Every Man a Fish at Kingfish

Herbsaint | 701 St. Charles Ave. | 524-4114 | Herbsaint.com Kingfish | 337 Chartres St. | 598-5005 | KingfishNewOrleans.com Peche | 800 Magazine St. | 522-1744 | PecheRestaurant.com

The perfect dining entrée for summer, fresh caught Gulf fish can be found on the menu at many New Orleans restaurants, but two new additions are giving the competition a run for their money. From the wood-fired grill at Peche or a sizzling Himalayan salt brick at Kingfish, here are two reasons to embrace your inner pescetarian this July.

Peche is the newest addition to the Link Group restaurants, which include Cochon and Herbsaint. Inspired by their travels and study of Asado, the South

American tradition of cooking over an open-flame, chefs Donald

Link, Stephen Stryjewski and Ryan Prewitt have now opened a seafood

restaurant (Peche actually means fish), where the center of attention is on local sourcing and dishes prepared on a wood-fired grill that was crafted by Link’s cousin.

The grill doesn’t disappoint.

On a recent visit, a whole redfish (enough to feed at least two to three people) arrived to the table with a crispy skin and impeccably soft flesh, which fled the bone with only the slightest touch. My

18 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

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Every Man A Fish

mother, sister and I picked apart the red fish so fast that a server actually gave us fist bumps before he carted off its skeletal remainder, amazed at our proficiency.

And while it’s easy to gobble up nearly everything on the menu at Peche, the great thing is that most menu options aren’t so burdensome, considering the dreaded heat of summer.

Seasonal vegetables such as grilled eggplant dressed with chilies and garlic, or a simple feta and arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, keep dining on the lighter side, though naturally you can sate a carb-lover with savory hush puppies and decadent, buttery fried bread, which is similar to a beignet and sprinkled with salt.

The atmosphere is more Cochonstyle, totally casual with no table cloths. A lunchtime jaunt with a group of coworkers or a dinner with friends both work well here, as the menu is geared toward platesharing with lots of small plate choices, snacks and even a seafood platter from the oyster bar featuring fish crudo (thinly sliced, sashimilike raw fish) oysters, salads and dips meant for many hands.

But save room for dessert, because this is actually one of the few places in town you’ll find a take on the pineapple upside-down cake, courtesy of pastry chef Rhonda Ruckman, and you don’t want to skip it.

At Kingfish in the French Quarter, chef Greg Sonnier creates hearty dishes steeped in Louisiana tradition and flavors, but with an element of the exotic. Sonnier honed his craft working for cooking greats like Paul Prudhomme before opening Gabrielle, a Mid-City favorite that closed in the wake of

Hurricane Katrina. But he’s still up to his kitchen wizardry, creating classic dishes such as oysters Thermidor and seafood cassoulet that harken back to the days of Huey P. Long but also fit comfortably alongside effortless, quirky dishes such as tempura-fried deviled duck egg, and an alligator ragout topped with a free-range egg.

Sonnier’s signature entrée, Every Man a Fish, is a showstopper.

Here, a delicate filet of pompano is seared over a piping hot Himalayan salt brick (and brought to the table on it) accompanied by tender, warm lemon wedges that are actually edible on their own, having soaked up the sweet juice of a red onion marmalade and roasted pecan butter. On a menu of hearty fare, the pompano is a delicate surprise, served with the sort of bravado you’d expect for a restaurant named after the mighty Huey P. Long.

It is hard to resist temptation here because the guava butter and garlic fries are a must-try side for the table, just as the housemade andouille served with a lavender honey mustard is also an irresistible appetizer. The restaurant itself has a bit of a man cave feel, dark with sultry woods and leather and pictures of Huey P Long. The entry opens up onto the bar, where you’ll find legendary bartender Chris McMillian creating classic, Prohibition-era drinks, like his signature Mint Julep, and of course some newer concoctions that are just as pleasing. F

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The Lacinato kale and smoked drum salad at Herbsaint is simply a divine starter, with creamy onion dressing and local citrus that balance perfectly with the smoked drum, all of which seems to hint at summers at the fishing camp.

photographed by sara essex bradley

philanthropic fun

by Elizabeth Heideman

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1. UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael Lomax, co-chair Jil Greene and Fred Keeton 2. Maurice Jenkins and co-chair Dr. Norman Francis.

3. Co-chair Alden McDonald and Michael Smith 4. Alvin Richard Jr. and Therese Badon 5. Jermaine Smith and Jack Peterson 6. Roy Glapion, La Juana Chenier and Maurice Jenkins 7. Michael Smith, co-chair Mitch Landrieu, UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael Lomax and co-chair Alden McDonald

Under the City Lights

UNCF and Liberty Bank and Trust Co. have a “Ball in the City.”

Since its inception 19 years ago, the United Negro College Fund and Liberty Bank and Trust Co.’s partner event “Ball in the City” has raised a total of $2.3 million dollars to benefit highly qualified students who are underrepresented in today’s higher education. This March, UNCF and Liberty Bank hosted the 2013 “Ball in the City” at Harrah’s Casino, and, like in previous years, this year’s ball was a night to remember.

Mr. and Mrs. Alden J. McDonald Jr.; Mayor and Mrs. Mitchell J.

Landrieu; Dr. and Mrs. Norman C. Francis; Dr. and Mrs. Walter M. Kimbrough; and Mrs. Jil Greene all served as honorary co-chairs for the event and collectively contributed to an unforgettable evening. President and CEO of UNCF, Dr. Michael Lomax, gave a notable speech on the educational environment of Louisiana and educational institutions across the country, emphasizing the importance of UNCF and its mission. UNCF also bestowed Chief Justice Bernette Johnson

white chocolate bread pudding with the UNCF MASKED Award and signature cocktails provided for her achievements in the legal

by Grey Goose Cherry Noir. The field, including becoming the first evening also included a silent African American Chief Justice of auction with fabulous items from the Louisiana Supreme Court.

Adler’s, Louisiana Philharmonic Footloose guests tore up the Orchestra and other partner dance floor to a concert featuring businesses. F Chante Moore and headlining act ZAPP, a classic funk band. In between event at a glance songs, attendees What: “Ball in the City,” presented relished in the decadent

by Liberty Bank, benefiting the United menu, which featured Negro College Fund New Orleans-style When: Friday, March 22 barbecue shrimp,

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Where: Harrah’s New Orleans Casino

Photographed by jeff strout

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philanthropic fun

By Elizabeth Heideman

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3 1. Christie Mintz, R. K. Hoddinott, Kathy Singleton and Tiffa Boutte. 2. Julien Chouest, Sandra Wilson, Virginia Eckholdt and Jeff Chouest Jr. 3. Sonda Stacey, Bob Breck, Teresa Guzzetta, Jaun Barona and Jamie Moreau. 4. Cheryl Mintz Bauman and Bret Bauman with Jacqueline Simon, mistress of ceremonies Juli Miller Hart and Kathleen Mix Diamond. 5. Allison Marshall, Andre Rubenstein and Nicki Candies. 6. A view of the luncheon before guests arrived.

Sensing Style

The Men and Women of Fashion honor 20 “Best Dressed” honorees.

An afternoon as stylish as the organization that hosted it, the Men and Women of Fashion held their annual “Prix d’Elegance Luncheon” this past April at the Hilton, benefited the Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization, which funds the New Orleans Ballet Association’s awardwinning education programs and scholarships for deserving students on a yearly basis.

Sandra Chaisson served as co-chair of the luncheon and, along with Women of Fashion’s president Jacquee Carvin and Men of

Fashion’s president Mike Winters, helped organize an incredible afternoon. Juli Miller Hart served as Mistress of Ceremonies.

The menu for the afternoon consisted of decadent Mandarin salad with orange poppy seed dressing, grilled tenderloin of beef with mushroom and red pepper rissoto, Southern-style smothered green beans and, for dessert, praline crunch cheesecake.

Dorignac’s generously provided a selection of fine wine.

During luncheon, the Men and Women of Fashion delighted

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guests with a raffle for an exquisite for over 1,500 students who wish to study ballet on a professional pair of earrings from Lee Michaels level. The NOBA/NORDC program for her and a $2,500 shopping levels the playing field and allows spree at Rubenstein’s luxury any student – regardless of their menswear for him. The luncheon ability to pay – the opportunity to also presented the 2012 Best pursue a career in dance. F Dressed Honorees, a group of 20 New Orleanians who are leaders in personal style as event at a glance well as philanthropy.

What: “Prix d’Elegance Luncheon,” Each year, the New held by Men and Women of Fashion, Orleans Ballet Association benefiting the Ballet Resource and partners with the New Volunteer Organization Orleans Recreation When: Monday, April 8 Department and offers Where: New Orleans Hilton Hotel over 3,000 free classes

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philanthropic fun

by Elizabeth Heideman

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1. Chad Folse and Courtney BowmanFolse with Kathleen and Drew Ramsey 2. Marion and Toby Ramsey 3.

Co-chair Adrienne, Jane and co-chair Katy Casbarian 4. Lonnie and Maureen Stockwell with Marie and Mark Acierno 5. Kelly Nolan, Renee Vadrine, Todd Brown and Beth Brantley 6.

Bill and Pam Ryan with Curtis Eustis 7. James Reiss and Paul Masinter

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Lighthouse Expands and Succeeds Lighthouse Louisiana holds its annual fundraiser at Arnaud’s.

Lighthouse Louisiana held a benefit at famed Arnaud’s restaurant in March to mark its accomplishments throughout the 97 years that the organization has served our community and to raise funds for a new era. Formerly known as the Lighthouse for the Blind, the nonprofit has long served citizens of New Orleans with visual impairments but has now expanded to outreach and service for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Adrienne Casbarian and Katy

Casbarian served as co-chairs for the event, which was a spectacular success and raised over $60,000 for Lighthouse’s outreach projects.

Over 120 guests attended the event.

Unsurprisingly, Arnaud’s provided a decadent feast for all in attendance, with sumptuous fare including: oyster Bienville tartlettes, soufflé potatoes with béarnaise sauce and mini chicken Wellingtons for hors d’oeuvres, and a buffet featuring oysters on the half shell, crawfish crêpes

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and a carving station with pork sliders. For dessert, guests enjoyed cherries jubilee with chocolate truffles and fruit tartlettes.

While guests savored the culinary feast, The Gumbo Pot Trio provided one for the ears, performing live jazz music that set a relaxed atmosphere for the evening. In addition to music, Lighthouse held a silent auction with luxurious prizes for guests. Top bidders went home with exquisitely

glazed ceramics and exclusive gift baskets, all created by Lighthouse clients and staff for the event.

Perfect Presentations donated stunning topiaries and floral arrangements of pink and red roses for the event. F

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event at a glance What: “An Evening Benefitting Lighthouse Louisiana” When: Thursday, March 28 Where: Arnaud’s Restaurant

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philanthropic fun

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4 1. Harold and Sue Singer with Kathy and Hal Shepard 2. Louis and Ana Shepard with June Leopold and Martin Goldstein 3. Mark and Barabara Greenberg with Loel and Larry Samuel 4.

Mollo and Adam Kramer with co-chair Marisa Kahn 5. Betty Kohn, Jean Frank and Millie and Robert Kohn 6. Sara Stone and Babs Isaacson

Looking to Luau?

NCJW’s annual fundraiser brings “Hawaiian Paradise” to New Orleans.

The National Council of Jewish Women brought a little bit of Hawaii to the Warehouse District this past April with their “Hawaiian Paradise” fundraiser at the Sun Ray Grill. The NCJW is the oldest women’s grassroots organization in the United States, and strives for social justice, equal rights and an enhanced Jewish life.

Co-chairs Marisa Kahn and Rollie Rabin helped organize

a fabulous evening, which transported guests directly to the tropics. The event was both a fundraiser and a chance to connect with the greater New Orleans area, raising awareness about the organization and its important work.

The Sun Ray Grill was fully decked out in tropical decor and presented a Kosher-style luau, featuring leg of lamb, grilled shish kabobs and Hawaiian vegetable

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fried rice. A strolling ukulele player greeted guests, and real hula dancers enthralled the crowds while they performed one of Hawaii’s most famous traditions.

Guests also enjoyed a grand silent auction that boasted a number of fabulous lots. Items included a two-night stay at both the Hilton Riverside and Windsor Court hotels as well as gift certificates to The Court

of Two Sisters and other top restaurants. F

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event at a glance What: “Hawaiian Paradise,” benefiting the National Council of Jewish Women When: Saturday, April 6 Where: Sun Ray Grill

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philanthropic fun

By Elizabeth Heideman

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1. Co-chairs Debbie Alciatore and Cindy Paulin with Joan Ingram 2. Kathy Randall and Larry Hamric 3. Lauren Tafaro and Rob Horton 4. Christine Bondio, Kenny Malter and Pat Starnes 5. David Duke and Gary English

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No Pinches Necessary

Raintree Children and Family Services “Paint the Town Green.”

Green is the color of peace, life and shelter, a fitting theme for Raintree Children and Family Services’ annual fundraising gala “Paint the Town Green,” which took place this past April at Harrah’s New Orleans Casino Theatre. The gala provided both an unforgettable night of entertainment as well as a chance to help Raintree’s mission of providing relief and shelter to abused and neglected girls, as well as support for children with developmental disabilities and their families.

Deborah Alciatore and Cindy

Paulin served as this year’s gala chairs and greatly contributed to the evening’s success, while Lana Duke acted as mistress of ceremonies. Duke presented awards to the gala’s sponsor, The Magnolia Foundation, and to Pete Montecino, manager of Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and longtime friend and supporter of Raintree and its mission.

The 2013 gala opened with an exclusive patron party at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. Down the street, Harrah’s then hosted the gala fundraiser in its multi-million

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addition to Ruth’s Chris, various dollar theatre, which set the stage local restaurants graciously for both a silent and live auction. provided dining options The highest bidders went home throughout the evening, including with luxurious items, including: Antoine’s and La Louisiane Bakery, a dinner for eight in the comfort whose shrimp remoulade and of their own home prepared French pastries were particular by award-winning chef Susan showstoppers, respectively. F Spicer; autographed T-shirts by Drew Brees and limited-edition artwork. event at a glance Guests also What: “Paint the Town Green,” benefiting swung the night Raintree Children and Family Services away to live When: Saturday, April 6 music by the Where: Harrah’s New Orleans Casino Theatre Yat Pack. In

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philanthropic fun

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1. Patty Riddlebarger, Fidgi Simeon, Michael Ho and Diana Lewis 2. Kwame Juakali, Peggy Mendoza and honoree Norma Jane Sabiston and Kelley Engman 3.

Rocky Moon, Jennifer Roberts, Liz Santos and Allen Eskew 4.

Jack Smith, Russell and Donna Klein and Kate Youngstrom

Fundraising for Our Future City Year New Orleans holds its annual “School House Rock.”

They say “children are our future,” and City Year New Orleans’ mission is to ensure that our future is safeguarded by guiding local youth through high school and beyond. This past April at Rozy’s Jazz Hall in Uptown, City Year celebrated its accomplishments with the annual event “School House Rock” while honoring founding member Norma Jane Sabiston for her longtime dedication and leadership.

Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath revealed Sabiston’s

outstanding commitment to New Orleans’ youth and the city’s rebuilding. Sabiston’s efforts helped allow the new local site to be up-and-running within a mere 90 days after the storm, a process that normally takes two years. According to Blaire Tritle, City Year’s development manager, Sabiston’s “willingness to go above and beyond and lend her time and resources to our mission to ensure that more at-risk students in New Orleans have the extra support needed to get back on track in

school has made her an invaluable asset and a dear friend.”

In addition to honoring Sabiston, “School House Rock” was also a fun-filled celebration.

The NOCCA Jazz Ensemble provided live music throughout the night, while attendees feasted on gourmet re-creations of classic cafeteria food and sipped “High School Crushes” signature cocktails. Four corps members also presented yearlong journals

of their experiences serving with City Year, which was a particular highlight of the evening.

Mayor and First Lady Landrieu graciously served as honorary co-chairs for the event. F

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What: “School House Rock,” benefiting City Year New Orleans When: Thursday, April 11 Where: Rozy’s Jazz Hall

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1. Marlene Friis, King Michael Hecht, Queen Racquel Smith and Will Smith 2.

Co-chairs Arlene Rome, Brian McDonald and Tiffany MarkleyTruxillo 3. Dennis O’Hara, Katie Morris, Mike Morris and Lynn Morris 4. Else Pedersen and Executive Director Michelle Gaiennie

A Caring Cotillion

Bridge House/Grace House’s “Cochon Cotillion XVII” calls for costumes.

The first unofficial Mardi Gras ball of the 2014 season, Bridge House/Grace House’s annual “Cochon Cotillion” kicked off Carnival at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World this past April.

Bridge House and Grace House are dedicated to serving men and women who have become dependent on drugs and alcohol and to provide them with genderspecific treatment, long-term residential services, and, most importantly, dignity and respect.

Brian McDonald, Arlene Rome and Tiffany Markley-Truxillo

co-chaired the ball, which crowned King Michael Hecht and Queen Racquel Smith of the Krewe of Pork and Beads. Hecht is chief executive of Greater New Orleans, Inc., an organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and small business growth in the Crescent City. Smith, the wife of New Orleans Saints’ Will Smith, works with her husband to promote opportunities for women and youth through their foundation Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way. The cotillion was a fun and

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bicycle and gift certificates to some funky party, where “costume of New Orleans’ finest restaurants. and tacky attire” was politely The cotillion raised over requested. The New Orleans-based $200,000 for Bridge House/ show band ELS gave a dazzling Grace House, which opened a and enthusiastic performance. brand new 84-bed residential Over 40 restaurants provided facility in 2011. F fine dining for the event, which included curry smoked chicken plantain soup from famed Commander’s event at a glance Palace and Drago’s What: “Cochon Cotillion XVII,” seafood pasta. Guests benefiting Bridge House/Grace House also delighted in a When: Saturday, April 13 silent auction. Items Where: Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras included a deluxe World Eastbank lady’s shogun Japanese

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philanthropic fun

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Honoring Greats Among Us

1. Honoree Sarintha Buras, Barry and Dianne Breaux and honoree JoAnn Christopher 2. Honorees Jackie Elliott, Mary Fonseca and Lynn Skidmore 3.

Honorees Janice Kishner, Diane Hollis and Faye Young 4. Co-chair Suzette Herpich, Margaret Orr, Dr. Mark Peters and co-chair Lisa Baynham

East Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary fêted eight activists at their annual luncheon.

This April, the East Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary hosted their “Great Lady/Great Gentleman Awards Luncheon” in the Audubon Tea Room to honor eight outstanding community leaders, as well as raise funds for East Jefferson Hospital. The auxiliary began in 1971 as a group of volunteers who brought patients reading materials to their rooms.

Lisa Baynham and Suzette Herpich served as co-chairs for the main event. Kathleen McGregor and Marguerite Ricks were co-chairs of an additional patron

party, which Dr. and Mrs. Chuck Cucchiara graciously hosted in their beautiful home.

The auxiliary honored: Sarintha B. Buras, for her extensive work serving both children and the elderly; JoAnn Christopher, for her dedication to maintaining New Orleans’ parks and gardens; Mary Fonseca, for her lifelong commitment to bettering the Catholic faith and education; Diane Hollis, for her endeavors as a mentor, educator and leader in civic engagement; Janice Kishner, for her dedication to community

of a live jazz trio, as well as particiservice, healthcare and continuing pated in a fabulous auction and education; Lynn E. Skidmore, liquor barrel raffle. The menu for her patronage of the arts, consisted of sautéed tilapia over dedication to volunteerism and orzo with cream spinach and political activism; Faye Young, for asparagus and white chocolate her work as a teacher, mentor and volunteer work for such nonprofits bread pudding for dessert. F as the Ladies Leukemia League; and Jackie Elliott, for her service as an active Rotary Club member, Cub Scout event at a glance leader and the Jefferson What: “Great Lady/Great Gentleman Performing Arts Society.

Awards Luncheon,” benefiting East For entertainment, Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary luncheon guests listened When: Sunday, April 14 Where: Audubon Tea Room to the delightful notes

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1. Co-chairs Rachel Parker and Beverly Matheney with Rose Hudson and Macon Moore 2. Ana Gershanik, Ivy Kushner and Rickie Nutik 3. Jennifer and Jack C. Benjamin 4. Yulia and John Houghtaling

A Big Spender Delights Audiences Young Audiences of Louisiana presents “Dancing for the Arts.”

Young Audiences of Louisiana’s “Dancing for the Arts” took the city by storm in March with the annual benefit at Harrah’s Casino Theatre. Modeled after the hit reality television show, the event is “Dancing with the Stars” – New Orleans-style – and brings together local community leaders with Young Audiences performing artists and instructors for an unforgettable night of food, music and an epic dance-off.

Co-chairs Beverly Matheney and Rachel Parker helped create an unforgettable night, which raised

$40,000 for Young Audiences’ free after-school and summer programs for underserved communities. WDSU News Anchor Camille Whitworth served as Mistress of Ceremonies.

The winning dance couple was philanthropist Kim Glazer and instructor Keith Gussoni, whose “Big Spender” routine earned them top marks from the judges. Other notable routines included Yulia Houghtaling and her partner Eddy Villalta’s hip dance mix, which featured Beyonce and “Gangnam Style,” for which the crowd went wild. During breaks, Master Guitarist

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evening.

Carl Le Blanc of Preservation Hall Young Audiences provides Jazz Band kept the audience on New Orleans youth with fine its toes. Le Blanc is a passionate and performing arts instruction, supporter of music education and as well as life skills, profesfriend of Young Audiences. sional development and new In addition to great entertainfriendships. F ment, guests dined on a lavish menu, featuring pan-seared salmon in a lemon butter sauce with pasta primavera event at a glance and steamed asparagus, What: “Dancing for the Arts,” with assorted mini benefiting Young Audiences of French pastries for Louisiana dessert. Goldring Family When: Saturday, March 23 Foundation provided an Where: Harrah’s Casino Theatre open bar throughout the

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philanthropic fun

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1. Father Bob Pawell OFM, Father Paul Desrosiers, Sister Anthony Barczykowski D.C. and Archbishop Alfred Hughes Emeritus 2. Holly Popham, Henry Lambert and Meghan Donelon 3. Julian Mutter, co-chair Angie Bowlin, Chris Fransen and co-chair Betty Nice 4. Warren Backer Jr., Cynthia Molyneux, David Cortez and Vincent Saia

Angelic Accolades Project Lazarus honors its “Guardian Angels.”

Project Lazarus honored their 2013 “Guardian Angels” on Wednesday, April 17 at their 16th annual “Guardian Angel Award Gala.” The Pavilion of the Two Sisters in City Park created a beautiful setting for 250 guests who came out to honor those with distinguished service to the organization, which supports individuals with HIV/AIDS. This year’s gala raised over $45,000 to go towards programming and the increasing food costs at

Project Lazarus.

Angie Bowlin, Betty Nice, Jim Lestelle, Kim Moss and Steve Rivera co-chaired the event, which was kicked off on Monday, April 15 with a patron party at the Windsor Court Hotel. The gala began with an exquisite cocktail reception in the blooming Botanical Gardens of City Park, after which a dinner of filet of beef medallions in béarnaise sauce was served.

Two “angels” were honored for

presentation of awards, featuring their service in helping Project stays at five-star hotels and a Lazarus succeed in the service beautiful oil-on-canvas painting by of individuals with HIV/AIDS: the celebrated Columbian artist, Frances Smith and Jerry Purcell.

Paris Winn was presented with the Gustavo Duque. F Pawell-Desrosiers Award, the organization’s highest honor, for his incredible contrievent at a glance butions to Project What: 16th annual “Guardian Angel Lazarus throughout Award Gala,” benefiting Project Lazarus its existence. There When: Wednesday, April 17 was a live auction Where: The Pavilion of the Two Sisters, following the City Park

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Buff Beauty Bar

Taking it Easy in the Big Easy Pamper yourself this summer

by Elizabeth Heideman | Photographed by jeffrey johnston

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ith all the things to see and do (and eat!) in the Big Easy, we need a little down time. Luckily, the city is abundant with not only five-star attractions but also world-class getaways that allow for plenty of rest and relaxation. This summer, take the opportunity to experience what New Orleans has to offer in spas and resorts and discover what it means to take it easy in the Big Easy!

If you’re looking for that perfect weekend getaway, look no further than Stone Creek Spa

(1201 Ochsner Blvd., Covington, (985) 801-7120, TheSpaAtStoneCreek.com), a lush getaway where

you can spend the day in the lap of luxury or simply book a 30-minute express session. The spa’s party service is a prime feature. Perfect for ladies’ night, family gatherings or bridal parties, you can create and fully customize a luxurious party package, which includes decadent dining

fare by Creekside Catering, for any special occasion or even just a Monday.

When you visit Stone Creek, you can’t help feeling like a celebrity. Enjoy the feel of Kashwere robes as you sip hot tea or chilled citrus water.

Indulge your eyes and visit the spa’s exquisite private gardens, ideal for a few minutes of quiet meditation. Looking for a total spa experience?

Try one of the two-hour Stone Creek Ceremonies, unique treatments that draw upon the elements to restore and relax you. The “Ceremony of Earth” features an exfoliation with a warm Vichy shower, a body mask with organic lotion, swaddle and a scalp treatment. The “Ceremony of Sea” includes body brushing, a hydrating body masque, swaddle and a refreshing algae facial application.

You can also book a half-day retreat, which includes your choice of a Stone Creek manicure or pedicure and two additional 60-minute

services, such as facials or body treatments. A spa lunch and all gratuities are included, so all you have to do is relax.

An oasis in the center of the city, the luxurious day spa at Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans (921 Canal St., 670-2929, RitzCarlton.com/en/Properties/ NewOrleans/Spa) was named the “Top Hotel Spa”

in the country by Travel + Leisure magazine in 2011. While great for weary travelers, the spa at Ritz-Carlton provides a welcome retreat for locals as well, offering Louisiana residents a 20 percent discount on spa services Monday through Thursday. Exercise your body before resting your mind and take the opportunity to restore your natural energy and visit the spa’s 24-hour fitness center, where classes by Romney Pilates are held two to three times a day, before you indulge in one of the Ritz-Carlton’s many luxurious spa treatments.

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While the menu features all of the well-established spa amenities, such as decadent facials and nail services, the spa at Ritz-Carlton also offers unique treatments that add a New Orleans flavor to your visit. With the “Marie Laveau Voodoo Love Massage and Bath,” soak in the “rich earthy oils that the most powerful Voodoo queen in the world once gave to her clients” while listening to themed music, as the intoxicating aroma of incense and candles fills the room. If love isn’t on your mind, try the “Cafe au Lait Detox Slimming Body Wrap.” Using signature coffee grounds to exfoliate dead skin, enhance circulation and enrich your body with natural antioxidants, the Slimming Wrap releases toxins and activates fat dissolution, so you can visit Cafe du Monde as many times as you want!

The New Orleans Hotel Collection (Audubon Cottages, 509 Dauphine St., 561-5858, AudubonCottages. com; Bourbon Orleans Hotel, 717 Orleans St., 523-2222, BourbonOrleans.com; Crowne Plaza New

your own hotel room to ensure your maximum relaxation.

The “In-Your-Space” spa menu features an array of traditional treatments “Southern style.” Heal yourself with the “Big Easy,” a classic Swedish massage that relieves tension, fatigue and restores mental clarity; the “Creole Queen,” a therapeutic massage designed especially for expectant mothers or the “NOLA,” a deep tissue massage that’s more intense than a traditional Swedish, and Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans helps release toxins and relieve overworked muscles. The Orleans Airport Hotel, 2829 Williams Blvd, 467-5611, “Mint Julep” is another popular NewOrleansAirportHotel.com; Dauphine Orleans Hotel, treatment. Featuring relaxing aromatherapy, 415 Dauphine St., 586-1800, DauphineOrleans.com; Hotel exfoliation and a hand and foot treatment, this Le Marais, 717 Conti St., 525-2300, HotelLeMarais.com; total spa experience nourishes and restores Hotel Mazarin, 730 Bienville St., 581-7300, HotelMazarin. both your body and soul. If you’re looking to com; Wyndham Riverfront New Orleans, 701 Convention celebrate Mother’s Day or host a bridal shower Center Blvd, 524-8200, Wyndham.com) is an exclusive in style, take advantage of custom spa packages collection of luxury hotels that offers top-rated available for any event. services with a distinctly New Orleans charm.

A “beauty bar for beauty buffs,” Buff Beauty Bar Partnered with Le Jardin Spa, each hotel offers (720 Carondelet St., 522-BUFF (2833), BuffBeautyBar.com) spectacular spa services right in the comfort of is a must-visit for beauty lovers who appreciate

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high quality and efficient spa services. Open since New Year’s Eve 2012, co-owners Sarah Duffy and Catherine Alford’s primary focus is to combine upscale salon services with convenience and accessibility. To this end, they chose to establish the salon in a premier CBD location along the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line. Take advantage of Buff’s online booking service, which allows you to schedule spa sessions from your home, the office or your smartphone. But don’t worry, Buff is open seven days a week!

Spend time in a fun and relaxing environment while sipping complimentary champagne and choose from any of Buff’s many deluxe head-to-toe services, which includes: manicures, pedicures, facial peels, waxing and eyelash extensions and tinting.

Also, check out Buff’s newly debuted blowout bar and show your tresses how much you care. The salon features only five-star brands in both its services and retail products, such as Moroccan Oil, Julie Hewett and Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare.

The Woodhouse Day Spa (4030 Canal St., 482-6652, NewOrleans.WoodhouseSpas.com) is a full-service

spa retreat that caters to both men and women and has been named “America’s Favorite Day Spa” as part of the American Spa Magazine’s

spa at home. When you visit Woodhouse, you aren’t just treated like a client; you’re treated like a guest. Whether you’re there for a quick facial or an all-day renewal session, the Woodhouse staff encourage you to take your time and stay a while after your treatment is over, making Woodhouse truly your home away from home.

A few of Woodhouse’s signature services include the 80-minute “Minkyti Facial,” implementing massage techniques that re-generate and stimulate the skin for maximum absorption of rejuvenating products; the 80-minute “Rest and Renewal” treatment, which takes place in The the exquisite “Tub Room,” equipped with Woodhouse Day Spa a clawfoot tub and massage table, and the 110-minute “Woodhouse Escape.” The “Escape” is the ultimate in head-to-toe healing and begins with an invigorating “Professional Choice Awards.” Husband and wife bamboo body scrub, followed by a volcanic co-owners Stuart and Siobhan Rome opened stone massage, a neck, shoulder and scalp the spa last April and have already enjoyed massage that awakens your senses with wild overwhelming success. Woodhouse features lime oil – perfect for releasing upper body locker rooms with rainfall showers, relaxation tension – and closes with the ancient practice rooms – where you can kick back both before of a restorative reflexology treatment performed or after your spa treatment and sip complimenon the feet. Woodhouse also offers “real-time” tary tea and wine – and a retail store, where you online booking, ensuring your next reservation is can shop for award-winning products, such as exactly when you wish it. F Clarisonic and NuFace, to create your very own

JON VACCARI

ANTIQUES DESIGN

1912 ST. CHARLES AVENUE | NEW ORLEANS 70130 | T: 504.899.7632 July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 43

California Closets

Thermofoil doors at Artisan Kitchen & Bath

Home Summer Spotlight Local experts weigh in on the latest and greatest in interior design trends. by Kelcy Wilburn | Photographed by Cheryl Gerber

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ome design trends may not change quite as quickly as those in the fashion industry, but the pace can surprise you, especially if it hasn’t been on your radar. It may be time to freshen things up with something as minimal as updating your window treatments or as large as breaking ground on a complete kitchen overhaul. Not only are trends aesthetic in nature, they can also be technological – solarpowered shades, music-playing showerheads and hands-free faucets are all popular amenities hitting the market. The following local experts gave us a sneak peak at the latest growing

kitchen and bath trends across New Orleans and the nation.

Located Uptown, Artisan Kitchen & Bath (5243 Tchoupitoulas St., 891-8884, ArtisanNola. com) remains a popular destination for those

looking to update their kitchen and bath cabinetry and countertops. According to Kitchen Designer Kerry Flanagan White, textured cabinets with a weathered, light-wash look are increasing in popularity.

“Light washes on grains like oak can add a lot of texture,” says White. “Another popular item is Thermofoil doors, something foreign cabinet lines have been doing for a while, and

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American manufacturers are now catching on to.” Thermofoil doors are coated with a vinyl-like durable plastic and come prefinished in solid colors and simulated wood grains for an easy-to-clean, modern look.

In the world of countertops, Caesar Stone is shaking things up with a new marble-like line of quartz that has impressed White and other designers. Marble, a porous stone, isn’t typically durable enough for a kitchen countertop, and Caesar Stone’s new line gives the look and beauty of marble with a worry-free lifetime warranty.

Lindsay Swenson, General Manager of Floor & Decor Design Gallery (2801 Magazine St., 891-3005, FloorAndDecorOutlets.com), is seeing an influx of

polished porcelain tiles into the New Orleans and national markets.

“It’s always been a popular style in beachy areas, and now it’s becoming a national trend,” says Swenson, who notes that the large-format, polished tiles give a clean, contemporary look to a space. Another

Showerhead with built in speaker doors at Southland Plumbing Supply

growing tile trend is uniquely shaped tiles such as elongated hexagons and octagons.

“The real linear look continues to expand, and tiles are now coming in all sizes – 6-by-18, 4-by-10, 4-by-16,” says Swenson.

In wood floors, Swenson sees a growing interest in reclaimed pine, whitewashed and greyed looks, as well as wide-plank and distressed, beachy, soft woods.

Floor & Decor Design Gallery also has a secondary location in Gretna.

Further down Magazine Street Peggy Stafford, owner of Stafford Tile & Stone (5234 Magazine St., 895-5000, StaffordTile.com) is stocking up on mosaics – tile, stone, glass, metals and combinations of all of the above.

“We’re seeing a lot of use of mosaics, and a lot of mixed media mosaics, where you might have a stone basket weave design with a glass dot in the middle and other variations,” says Stafford. “With respect to shapes, we’re seeing a resurgence in those that might be considered vintage or retro in appearance, such as chevrons and herringbone.”

While many people are still emphasizing the plain 3-by-6 look for backsplashes, Stafford is seeing a new interest – hand-painted, patterned tiles.

“People aren’t afraid of patterned, colored tiles, Moroccan patterns, Italian designs, these things are coming into vogue and onto the scene,” says Stafford.

Stafford regularly posts updates and trends on Facebook and is currently running a contest for those who “like” their page.

With a large showroom of kitchen and bathroom essentials, Southland Plumbing Supply (2328 N. Arnoult Road, Metairie, 662-1065; 68443 Highway 59, Suite 6, Mandeville, (985) 893-8883; SouthlandPlumbingSupply.com) is constantly

bringing in the latest technologies and

designs. According to Showroom Consultant Melissa Dupre, the latest high-tech favorites include a showerhead with a built-in speaker, as well as touch- and motion-sensing faucets.

“The Kohler Moxie showerhead has a removable speaker that we’ve been selling like crazy,” says Dupre. Using Bluetooth technology, the speaker can stream music, radio or podcasts from any number of devices.

In the kitchen, more and more people are opting for hands-free or semi-hands-free faucets. Touch and motion-sensing faucets help keep the kitchen more sanitary and are increasingly popular for their convenience.

“If you have cookie dough or raw chicken on your hands, you don’t have to grab and contaminate a faucet lever,” says Dupre. “You can just place your hands underneath the stream or touch the faucet with a clean part of your arm or the back of your hand.”

In keeping with a hands-free theme, Wren’s Tontine Shade & Design Shop (1533 Prytania St., 525-7409, WrensTontine.com) is now offering a

convenient option for controlling natural light

you want via a remote.”

In addition to being stylish, it’s always trendy to reduce energy costs. Many customers want to find window treatments that help keep out the heat while accentuating a room. Wren supplies a number of designs and materials that do just that.

One area of the kitchen often overlooked due to its nature of being “behind closed doors” is the ever-important pantry. The function and utility of a pantry keeps your kitchen organized, so guests can appreciate sweeping countertops and sleek cabinets, not cereal boxes that don’t fit on cabinet shelves or dusty wine racks.

“The traditional pantry used to be a closet about two or three feet wide with shelves,” says Paul Corona, franchise owner of California Closets (3211 N. Causeway Blvd., 828-5705, CaliforniaClosets.com/metairie). According to

Corona, most houses built today have walk-in pantries and many are doing a lot more in terms of storage, customizing the shelving and space for clients’ needs.

“Adjustability is very important and helps you maximize space. With adjustable shelving you can fit big cereal boxes in one place, small cans in another. We can also do spice racks, wine racks, drawers and baskets,” he says.

California Closets offers free consultations in which they take a look at a person’s space and discuss their specific needs before creating a custom design and installing the warrantied closet or pantry In recent years, a growing number of home designs find utility in connecting the master closet with the master bathroom.

“A big trend is creating larger master bathrooms with a walk-in closet attached so that people can get ready and dressed without having to wake each other in the bedroom rummaging through drawers and turning on lights,” says Don Wise, founder of Louisiana Custom Closets (885-3188; showroom 13405 Seymour Meyer Blvd., Suite 24, Covington (985) 871-0810; LouisianaCustomClosets.com). Since 2003,

Stafford Tile & Stone

without having to ever open or close a shade.

The new Somfy Sunis Indoor Wirefree™ RTS Sun Sensor is a solar powered sensor that knows when to raise and lower shades based on light thresholds you can set yourself.

“People really enjoy them and the convenience of not having to physically open and close all of their shades,” says Blythe Wren, third-generation owner of the store.

“You can also override the sun sensor anytime

Louisiana Custom Closets has been tailoring rooms, shelves, hampers, hutches and more to fit the needs of residents in Southern Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast.

“After you measure, you take inventory of people’s belongings – shoes, long dresses, suits, etc. – then we can custom design with their needs driving the design process,” says Wise.

Louisiana Custom Closets’ showroom and manufacturing facility is located in Covington, where they personally manufacture each custom closet design. F July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 45

NewOrleansAuction.com.

Under the purview of the University of New Orleans Department of Fine Arts, the UNO St. Claude Gallery (2429 St. Claude Ave., 280-6411, FineArts.UNO.edu/ artpage.html) is one of several

Martin Lawrence Galleries

Summer Gallery Guide From slow strolls to exciting auctions, find a way to enjoy the visual arts this summer.

by Kelcy Wilburn

S

ome people enjoy taking a slow stroll through a museum. Others prefer the quick pace of gallery hopping and wine sipping on “White Linen Night.”

Still others prefer the rapid-fire bidding and excitement of a live auction. No matter your personal style of art appreciation, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the visual arts around town this summer.

View and contemplate purchasing some art at the following

exhibitions coloring every corner of town.

On July 27 and 28, New Orleans Auction Galleries (801 Magazine St., 566-1849, NewOrleansAuction.com)

will be holding their Summer Estates Auction, a two-day bidding extravaganza of visual arts, antique furniture and collectors’ favorites from fine estates, private collections and institutions.

“We will be offering items from the estate of Ruth Sullivan Wilkins, the first Curator

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of Education at the Kimball Museum in Fort Worth, Texas.

The collection embodies the extensive connoisseurship and eclectic tastes of its owner,” says Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator Taylor Eichenwald.

“Among the items featured are works from the many artists she befriended over her decades as curator, Italian drawings collected on her extensive travels, coin silver from her native Massachusetts and adoptive New York, and the entire contents of her extensive reference library.”

Additional highlights include “Portrait of a Young Woman, Partially Draped” by Jean Joseph Vaudechamp, “Mythic Series 89-5” by Ida Kohlmeyer and Gorham Martelé Silver. The full catalog is available online and full color catalogs are available during exhibition weeks, when the items are on view from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., beginning July 13.

An evening preview reception will be held on July 25. For more information on the auction, items and consignment, visit

galleries contributing to the evergrowing Bywater arts scene along St. Claude Avenue. The gallery primarily shows thesis exhibitions of New Orleans’ up-and-coming young artists in spring, while showing visiting artists’ work and curating exhibits during the rest of the year, including UNO alumni work in the month of September. This September, look for faculty member and alumnus Jeff Rineheart’s digital and sculptural work.

Director Kathy Rodriguez curates an exhibition this August entitled “Making It.” The show’s general theme is artist collaborations with a more specific focus on work by artist couples.

“I’ve wanted to hold an exhibition like this for a few years.

I’m interested in showing the ways in which two people influence each other’s artistic practices and the ways in which artist couples might together produce work,” says Rodriguez. I also specifically chose the month of August – the dog days of summer – when really, the best thing to do is stay inside in the air conditioning, and, well, work it.”

The show features work

by Natalie McLaurin and Ben Fox-McCord, Tony Campbell and Matt Vis (as Generic Art Solutions), Rachel Jones Deris and Christopher Deris, Kathy Rodriguez and Matthew Kirscht, Ryn Wilson and Peter Hoffman, Ariya Martin and Michael Winter, and Kevin Baer and Sylvia Santamaria.

Through July 18, the Martine Chaisson Gallery (727 Camp St., 302-7942, MartineChaissonGallery. com) features its “2013 Pop Up

Show” of all female local artists.

Showing by appointment only, the exhibition includes works

by Shelley Aucoin, Rachel Jones Deris, Joli Livaudais, Taryn Moller Nicholl and Ryn Wilson.

“On ‘White Linen Night,’ I’m excited to open with a new artist,” says Martine Chaisson, who enjoys featuring the works of both established and emerging artists at her gallery. From August 3 through September 28, the gallery will be taken over by the works of visual artist and sculptor Clark Derbes, a New Orleans native. The exhibition, entitled “Pre-Historic Art of the Future...Today!!!” consists of work on paper and wood.

To schedule an appointment to view the “2013 Pop Up Show,” contact the Martine Chaisson Gallery; for more information on Clark Derbes, visit ClarkDerbes.com.

One of New Orleans’ most popular and busiest artists is spending the summer in France working on new paintings to be displayed and sold at his French Quarter gallery.

“We’re looking forward to the new influx of paintings from France, which will include new French landscapes and a series of smaller canvases of his cemetery series that was so popular last year,” says David Lambert, Gallery

Director for James Michalopoulos (617 Bienville St., 302-7942, Michalopoulous.com)

This month, the Michalopoulos Gallery will be taking part in “Tales of the Cocktail” and hosting an event at the gallery. For specifics, visit TalesoftheCocktail.com.

“The event ties in perfectly with James’s latest series currently on display, ‘Cocktails in Space,’ a fun and beautiful series of canvases of gorgeous-looking cocktails floating in the cosmos,” says Lambert.

Michalopoulos’s works can be viewed and purchased both at the gallery on its website.

Located nearby on art- and antique-friendly Royal Street is the New Orleans location of nationally renowned Martin Lawrence Galleries (433 Royal St., 299-9055, MartinLawrence.com). Specializing

in original paintings, sculpture and limited edition graphics, Martin Lawrence Galleries holds a substantial collection of artwork including the largest collection of Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall. Martin Lawrence Galleries is also the publisher and representative for Erté, Kondakova, Deyber, Mas, Bertho, Hallam, Fressinier, Hofmann and Lalonde.

UNO St. Claude Gallery

“We at Martin Lawrence Galleries value the trust you place in us and take our responsibility to preserve and enforce our reputation seriously,” says Marketing Manager Maria Saraceno Ward. Martin Lawrence Galleries have loaned hundreds of works to 32 museums around the world, including the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, the Museo Picasso in Barcelona and the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. This year, Martin Lawrence in New Orleans will feature “An Evening with François Fressinier” artist reception on October 19 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Additionally,

James Michalopoulos

the gallery will host “An Evening with Mark Kostabi” on November 23 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Tulane University continues its dedication to the visual arts with an always-diverse offering of exhibits at Newcomb Art Gallery located in the Woldenberg Art Center (6823 St. Charles Ave., 865-5328, NewcombArtGallery.tulane.edu). From

August 12 through September 15, Newcomb Art Gallery explores the relationship of sports to an institution with “More Than a Game: Sports and Identity, Newcomb/Tulane 1888/2013.”

“From October 4 through March 9, the Newcomb Art Gallery will present ‘Women, Art, and Social Change: The Newcomb Pottery Enterprise,’ the largest presentation of Newcomb arts and crafts in more than 25 years,” says Marketing Coordinator Teresa Parker Farris. “Works from various periods will examine the role that the enterprise played in promoting art for the betterment of women, and in turn, post-bellum New Orleans. Organized by the gallery and the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition Service, the exhibit will feature significant examples of the iconic pottery, as well as lesser known textiles, metalwork, jewelry, bookbinding and historical artifacts.”

Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. F

bev entertaining

By bev church

Taking the Party With You A “girls only” dinner party in Highlands, N.C. Many of my friends are going to North Carolina, Colorado, Maine – anywhere to get relief from our hot southern climate – even if just for a few days. There is a group of girls in New Orleans that always go to the mountains together, and this dinner party is designed just for them. Everyone is responsible for planning one night.

We drive, which makes it simple

to take centerpieces, golf clubs and any extras that you might need, so I put in my windowpane centerpiece that we could use night after night.

This whole idea for my night began with a trip to IKEA in Atlanta on the way to Highlands for the girls only trip. The summer rug, which doubles as a tablecloth, started it all. Then

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I found the blankets, which we wrapped with a lime green ribbon and accented with silk gerbera daisies from the Dollar Tree. It gets chilly in the mountains when the sun goes down, so these were perfect favors for everyone. The whole area is dotted with giant flower pinwheels that came from Big Lots. We are drinking wine from colorful ice cream cups

from Rouses. Our menu is simple because we’re playing bridge after dinner: spinach salad with walnuts and dried cherries, pasta with chicken and sausage and cupcakes for dessert!

The second we get home I’m having the grandchildren for a week, so I’ll get to recycle the flower pinwheels and cups for a special celebration! F Linda Bjork photographs

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 49

with this ring

By Mallory Lindsly

Grady – Adams After Erin Grady graduated from The University of Georgia and Bryan Adams graduated from the University of Florida, each moved to Tampa and they met through a mutual friend. Despite their school rivalry history, the two immediately hit it off. Bryan asked Erin out on their first date about six years ago. They went out for sushi and drinks and became inseparable; in fact, Erin and Bryan still go to the same sushi spot almost every week.

About a year and a half ago, Erin and Bryan went skiing in Vail, Co. After taking the lifts up to the top of the mountain, Bryan suggested skiing over to a more secluded part of the mountain for a picture. After taking their skis off, Bryan reached into his pocket to grab his camera. Instead, he dropped down to one knee, opened a ring box and asked Erin to marry him! They celebrated with a champagne lunch at Bistro Fourteen, which is on top of the mountain, and two days later family and friends joined the happy couple for more celebrating.

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After the ceremony, Erin and Bryan went to Sandy Lane for seven days in Barbados.

Both were born in New Orleans and now currently live in Tampa, Fla., where Erin is the College Counselor at H.B. Plant High School and Bryan is a Regional Manager for Adams Homes. F Bride: Erin Catherine Grady Groom: William Bryan Adams Bride’s Parents: Barbara Soule and Michael Grady Groom’s Parents: Holly Bryan Adams and Wayne Adams Date of Wedding: March 16, 2013 Ceremony Location: The Marley Room at the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, Fla. Reception Location: The Conservatory and Terrace at the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, Fla. Coordinator: Nancy Cotto with Your Event Today Celebrant: Reverend Rick Lackore Ceremony Music: The Adonai Trio Wedding Gown: Demetrio’s Maid of Honor: Shannon Grady Koch Bridesmaids: Alison Grossman, Lindsay Lynch, Annie Adams Malone, Ashley McDowell and Laura Levitt Bridesmaids’ Attire: Bright pink one-shouldered Wtoo cocktail dresses Flower Girl: Emilia Hope Adams Groom’s Attire: Black tux with black cummerbund and tie Best Man: Brandon Adams Groomsmen: Ryan Palusak, Robert Davis, Guyte McCord, Matt Malone, Kyle Chudeusz and Tanner Loebel Groomsmen’s Attire: Black tuxes with silver cummerbunds and ties Ushers: William Bryan, Eric Bach and Joey Bryant Florist: Carmen’s Flowers, Tampa, Fla. Caterer, Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake: Olympia Catering, Tampa, Fla. Photographer: Caroline Carson Photography, Tampa, Fla. Videographer: VideoArt Productions, Tampa, Fla. Hair: Gretchen and Lorin with Pulse Salon, Wesley Chapel, Fla. Makeup: KyleLynn Makeup Services, Tampa, Fla. Music: cocktail hour: Jazz Phools; reception: Big Swing and the Ballroom Blasters July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 51

young bloods

By Lindsay Mack

Ameca Reali and Adrienne K. Wheeler Founders, Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana

While students at Loyola College of Law in New Orleans, Ameca Reali and Adrienne K. Wheeler got into a discussion (or, more correctly an argument) about the New Orleans justice system. After examining the problems, they decided to focus on the topic of expungement, which allows people who have been arrested for a non-violent crime to remove their arrest records from public view.

Reali and Wheeler submitted a business plan to Echoing Green, a global nonprofit that provides funding to emerging social entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, Reali and Wheeler were awarded a SENO Propeller Fellowship for their social entrepreneurship. When Propeller Incubator offered co-working office space on 4035 Washington Ave., near the courthouse and bus lines, Reali and Wheeler secured office space there as soon as possible.

As Reali and Wheeler gathered advocates for their cause, The Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana (JAC) quickly grew from an idea into a thriving startup organization.

The JAC aids the incarcerated and ex-incarcerated population in Louisiana, and addresses deficiencies in the post-conviction phase of the criminal justice system by creating a supportive, collaborative space for attorneys and advocates.

It is the only organization delivering pro-bono services such as expungement in New Orleans.

Furthermore, the JAC tries to reach citizens after they’ve been impacted by the criminal justice system to help propel them forward into a more productive future. Going forward, the JAC plans to address the issues of reentry and conviction.

Reali and Wheeler note that you must be bold to create a startup. Due in part to JAC’s difficult subject matter, the organization had no existing models to follow. However they’ve enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with many energetic, caring members of the New Orleans community.

What asked to describe the most rewarding aspect of their work, neither Reali nor Wheeler hesitate before answering.

“Clients,” they agree.

“When clients are happy to see you come through the door, it’s rewarding. It is great to get people back with their families and jobs,” Reali says.

They agree that their work with JAC is important for the entire community. Expungement is a community health issue that enables members of the community to care for themselves.

The Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana welcomes your support and donations.

For more information, visit JACLouisiana.org, email info@JACLouisiana.org or call the expungement hotline at 345-8911. F cheryl gerber photograph

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student activist

By Mallory Lindsly

Evelyn Frances Brooks Academy of the Sacred Heart

“I think it’s important to be involved in your community, because you’re able to grow as a person when you’re introduced and influenced by different people. Not only are you affected, but you’re able to use your strengths and talents to help other people,” says Evelyn Frances “Francie” Brooks.

Brooks graduated from the Academy of Sacred Heart this past May and is enrolling at the University of Georgia in the fall. She plans on majoring in education and working in a public school after college, because she wants to become an activist for public education and to show students that they can succeed in school and in their chosen careers.

While she was at Sacred Heart, she was the president of campus ministry and co-president of the community service club and peer support. She helped found the Nicaragua club, where students fundraise for the Amigos for Christ Organization in Chinandega, Nicaragua. Brooks

has been part of three mission trips to Nicaragua with Sacred Heart over past summers.

Her most rewarding volunteering experience has been tutoring at the Apple Street Learning Center, where Brooks was able to form relationships with the children. This is where she learned about the public education system in New Orleans, and it was at this moment that she decided that she wanted to be involved with public education once she graduates from college.

“The greatest rewards are the A’s on tests that I’ve helped students study for and the smiles when they finally understand something,” says Brooks. “My time at the mission has given me a sense of dedication to helping others and made me realize that I am happiest when helping others.”

Brooks was always interested in community service and knew as a freshman that it was something she wanted to be involved in. She formed a relationship with Sue Heidel, Sacred Heart community outreach director, and participated in service activities. Heidel encouraged Brooks to take up leadership roles whenever she got the chance.

Brooks wants to continue her mission trips to Nicaragua and hopefully other countries.

Right now, she wants to do whatever she can each day, wherever she is, to make someone else’s life easier. F

cheryl gerber photograph

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 53

shop talk

By Mirella Cameran

Bee Fitzpatrick & Dabney Jacob Co-owners, Orient Expressed

How did you get into the business? DJ:

It was 1978 and we were two art teachers looking for an excuse to fund a traveling trip! We went to Asia and bought merchandise to sell when we got back. BF: It was the first original “pop up” shop and it sold out! After a few more times, we realized we could turn this into a long-term business.

What about children’s clothing?

BF: We were young moms and

we decided to start designing beautiful and well-priced clothes, as we do today.

Do you still go travelling for goods? DJ:

Absolutely, we go to India, Bali, China, the Philippines, Thailand and Japan, as well as cities in Europe. BF: We love finding incredible antiques as much as we like beautiful new handmade items.

54 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Why are New Orleanians so into home décor? DJ: I think the city

attracts artistic types who enjoy decorating and creating homes.

They also enjoy entertaining and want beautiful spaces in which to do so. BF: The city is full of great architecture and homes with high ceilings. They provide a wonderful shell to create something special both within and without.

What is your best piece of advice for decorating? BF: Find a foundation

piece: an incredible item of furniture that will anchor the room and allow you to build around it.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into the business? DJ: Know to whom

you’re selling and be flexible to go with what works. Employ your friends and family! F

shop talk

By Mirella Cameran

Mary Coxe

Director, Martin Lawrence Galleries What advice would you give to someone wanting to buy a piece of art? While

we have extremely valuable pieces here by modern masters such as Chagall, Warhol and Picasso, you should buy art based on the way it makes you feel. You have to love it.

Tell us a trade secret? You can buy an unsigned Picasso for a few thousand dollars and even signed sketchings are more affordable than you think.

That’s a good one; tell us another? Be How did you get into the business? 26

years ago a friend asked me to come and work in a gallery. I have never looked back. It never grows old, I never stop learning and I deal with people under the best circumstances. I feel very fortunate.

What does a collector look like?

Everyone is a potential collector.

All you have to do is fall in love with a piece of art.

How much does it cost to be a collector?

We have wonderful pieces here for $450. People are always surprised how affordable collecting can be.

cheryl gerber photograph

careful buying Warhols, a lot of his work has been rescreened and reprinted. Make sure you trust your dealer.

Any others? There have been problems with people buying art at auctions on cruise ships. The same laws don’t apply at sea. Again, it’s all about having confidence and a relationship with the person from whom you’re buying.

Do you mind people just coming in to browse the works on display or do they need to be able to buy? We love

people coming in. We say that no one comes to buy; you come to look and then one day something speaks to you. F

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 55

advertising section

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Smoothie King k Smoothie King’s Pure Recharge Smoothie is a healthy, natural energy drink that will kick start your day or fuel your afternoon to help you go that extra mile. All ingredients are natural energy sources, with antioxidants that enhance focus and promote healthy weight management! m Wren’s Tontine Shade & Design 525-7409 Porch Shades for the Hot Summer Days!

l Perfect Fit Shoes

m Mullin Landscape Associates, LLC 275-6617 During the summertime, one of the most important landscape elements in a garden is often a water feature of some type. It could be as simple as a water vessel or fountain, or more elaborate, such as a natural pond or waterfall!

456-5993 Cool comfort in Orthaheel Flip Flops with a foot bed – sensational!

july snapshots

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3 1. Finalists at the “George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts’ fourth annual Art Contest:”(back row) Brooke Bourgeois, Allyson Sutton, Kalli Padgett, Alexa Holland, George Rodrigue, Senior Winner Trinity Hartman, Rebecca Maples, Kristen Kaluba, Brianna Despenza (who was unable to attend), Alex Hope Rosenzweig and Haley Dupont and (front row) Junior Winner Alfonso Vaca-Loyola, Dwayne Dominick Jr., Tye Anderson, James Dupont and Alex Richardson. 2. Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation Chair Fabian Castello, LRAEF Executive Director Alice Glenn, George Rodrigue, Winner Trinity Hartman and past LRAEF chair John Eastman at the “George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts’ fourth annual Art Contest” on Saturday, March 23. 3. Cancer Crusaders co-President Denise Woodward, 2012 co-President Kathy Singleton, co-chair Kathy Mitchell, Dr. Augusto Ochoa, Dr. Prescott Deininger, 2012 co-President Jamie Moreau, co-chair Mark Mitchell and co-President Pat Golemi at the sixth annual “Cancer Crusaders Golf Tournament” at English Turn Golf and Country Club, where the 2012 co-Presidents presented a check to Dr. Augusto Ochoa and Dr. Prescott Deininger in the amount of $200,988.00 for funds raised in 2012. The money will be split evenly between the LSU Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center and the Tulane Cancer Center for the sole purpose of cancer research.

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6 4. Chair-couple and hosts Doug and Susan Johnson with Pixie and Jimmy Reiss at the “WYES Producers Circle” cocktail party in April. 5. Board chair Jonathan McCall, Ken Lawder and Sharon Perlis at the “WYES Producers Circle” cocktail party; The WYES Producers Circle is a group of major donors committed to supporting the community’s premier public broadcasting station at a higher level. 6. Betsie Gambel, Jefferson Parish President John F. Young Jr. and Emily McCulloch were aong the more than 350 guests in attendance at the “Jefferson Chamber’s Inaugural Awards Gala” at City Park’s Arbor Room on Friday, April 5. Christie Froom Photography.

july snapshots

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9 7. Kenny and Wendy Feehan and Jenny and Jefferson Chamber Chairman Johnny Domiano at the “Jefferson Chamber’s Inaugural Awards Gala”. The gala featured high-top tables, live music, dancing, video presentations, a photo booth and more than 70 items for silent auction. Christie Froom Photography. 8. Jones Walker attorneys Marshall Page and Rivers Lelong with executive director Cassie Worley and attorneys Bill Hines and Andy Lee with Rob Worley as the board of governors of Le Petit Théâtre officially dedicated the theatre’s newly restored lobby in honor of the Jones Walker law firm. 9. Amanda Buberger, assistant director of Academic Community Engagement for Tulane University’s Center for Public Service, poses with Catholic Charities Adult Education Coordinator Tessa Wheelock and ESL Site Facilitator Amy Dudgeon at “Cultural Night” on April 15, benefiting the Catholic Charities ESL/tutoring program for Tulane University.

12 10. Attorney John H. Norris, Tulane senior David Duesing (third from left) and Tulane senior Carolyn Kaufman (fifth from left) enjoy “Cultural Night” with three of their students. Norris and Duesing are both volunteer teachers for CCANO’s Level 1 class at Tulane University, and Kaufman helps coordinate the tutoring program. 11. Billy and Cindy Woessner with hosts Waid Thompson and Petricia Thompson at a meeting of “The Huguenot Society of New Orleans.” 12. Enjoying the Huguenot Society’s gathering, John and Sylvi Beaumont with Cathy and Phil Lorio were among those who enjoyed music by the Johnny Parker Trio and late Sunday afternoon cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 59

july schooldays

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6 3 1. Dale Smith, Catherine Freeman, T.J. Locke and Merritt Lane at “N’Spiration – Naturally Newman,” the Newman Parents Association’s biggest fundraiser of the year, on Saturday, April 13. The event featured a Studio Vieux Carre Photo Booth, entertainment by DJ Ronnie Roux and decorations that included 900 butterflies suspended from the ceiling in Krohn Foyer and large birds and fish from Mardi Gras World. 2. Caroline Calhoun, Courtney Singer and Leslie Gottsegen with members of the 610-Stompers at “N’Spiration,” which featured more than 200 auction items and took place in the Krohn Foyer. 3. Cathy Drennan, Debbie Rees, Sherrie Goodman, Stephanie Carroll and Courtney Rive were among the more than 300 guests at “N’Spiration,” which raised more than $100,000 for Newman.

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4. Chairs Celeste Eustis, Wendy Kerrigan and Anne Villere at “The Pink Party,” an auction fundraiser for Trinity Episcopal School on Saturday, April 13. The theme came from the annual tradition of the “Trinity Pink Party,” which is the year end concert and party for preschoolers in honor of the renovation of the Pink House preschool at Trinity. 5. Reverend Dr. Michael C. Kuhn and his wife Maria with hosts Donna and Paul Flower at “The Pink Party,” which featured food from local restaurants and pink petit fours by Haydel’s Bakery along with dishes by Trinity parents. 6.

Jenny Charpentier, Tommy Aucoin and Tricia Aucoin at “The Pink Party,” where a raffle by Aucoin Hart featured the chance to win their choice of seven different pieces of jewelry.

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.

It’s as good as

Premier

To Advertise Contact Jill Varney

504-830-7219 Jill@MyNewOrleans.com

62 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

Properties ELEANOR FARNSWORTH Top Residential Producer

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

www.EleanorFarnsworth.com 4717 St Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$6,000,000 16 Audubon Place .............. SOLD ..............$4,500,000 521 Gov. Nicholls................SOLD...............$3,750,000 18 Rosa Park ..................................................$2,750,000 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 Gaylynn Drive .......................................$2,199,000 1732-34 Palmer Avenue.................................$1,800,000 1413 Philip Street ...........................................$1,790,000 1538 Fourth Street ..............SOLD...............$1,700,000 1518 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,750,000 1415 Cadiz Street ...............SOLD...............$1,700,000 2708 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,625,000 6433 Paris Avenue ...............SOLD...............$1,625,000 1233 Second Street..............SOLD...............$1,600,000 4613 St. Charles Avenue.....SOLD...............$1,495,000 576 Audubon Street ............SOLD...............$1,595,000 2707 Coliseum Street ..........SOLD...............$1,490,000 2507 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,490,000 1542 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD...............$1,450,000 5726 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,400,000 1205 Philip Street .................SOLD...............$1,399,000 4917 St. Charles Avenue......SOLD...............$1,370,000 71607 Riverside Drive ...................................$1,350,000 447 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

Belle Alliance Plantation, Donaldsonville ..$3,200,000 6257 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge ................$2,750,000 595 Sandy Hook Dr. MS. ..............................$1,600,000 1701 Valence Street .............SOLD...............$1,075,000 1919 State Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 First Street ..................SOLD...............$1,050,000 1221 Exposition Blvd .........SOLD...............$1,045,000 3225 Prytania Street ............SOLD...............$1,000,000 1844 State Street ..................SOLD.................. $995,000 1022 Webster Street ............SOLD.................. $995,000 3447 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $985,000 1543 Henry Clay Avenue.......SOLD.................. $950,000 1729 Jefferson Avenue........SOLD.................. $950,000 4525 Prytania Street ............SOLD.................. $950,000 3937 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $950,000 508 Walnut Street ................SOLD.................. $950,000 2331 Chestnut Street...........SOLD.................. $949,000 1922 State Street ..................SOLD.................. $899,000 6161 Loyola Avenue............SOLD.................. $895,000 1205 Arabella Street ............SOLD.................. $895,000 6047 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $850,000 836 State Street ....................SOLD.................. $849,000 500 Walnut Street ................SOLD.................. $825,000 5933 Camp Street ................SOLD.................. $799,000 1443 Calhoun Street ...........SOLD.................. $789,000 405 Exposition Blvd ...........SOLD.................. $755,000 1513 Hesiod Street ............................................ $519,000 7337 W. Roadway Street ......3 Slips.................. $230,000 1205 St. Charles Avenue Unit #1415 ............. $194,000

10 Swan ........................SOLD ............ $1,300,000 5232 Chestnut ...................................... $1,100,000 500 Audubon ...............SOLD ................$998,000 22 Farnham ...................SOLD ................$950,000 1566 Calhoun ................SOLD ................$875,000 704 Webster .................SOLD ................$850,000 5111 Pitt..........................SOLD ................$749,000 1240 Eighth....................SOLD ................$725,000 6313 Laurel ...............................................$568,000 6308 Camp.....................SOLD ................$549,000 6219 Magazine St........SOLD ................$530,000 4919 Dryades................SOLD ................$517,000 924 Bellecastle ............SOLD ................$485,000 234 Audubon St. ..........SOLD ................$479,000 8233 Freret St ...............SOLD ................$445,000 5120 Chestnut...............SOLD ................$439,000 6300 Colbert St. ............SOLD ................$419,000 4 Stilt ...............................SOLD ................$415,000 4440 Bienville ...............SOLD ................$399,000 915 Cadiz........................SOLD ................$396,000 422 Henry Clay Ave.....SOLD ................$368,000 4701 Iberville.................SOLD ................$335,000 7400 Cohn St. ..............SOLD ................$279,000 527 Sixth St ...............................................$268,000 1212 Milan St. ..............SOLD ............... $249,000 266 Hillary St. ..............SOLD ................$239,500 2619 St Charles Ave, C ..........................$199,900

July 2013 St. Charles Avenue | 63

new orleans nostalgia

By Seale Paterson

Occupying Summer

New Orleans kept kids cool and occupied during the 1930s.

Barracks, to assisting on developments in City Park and at the Lakefront, to constructing steel bodies of garbage trucks. Jobs ran the gamut from messenger boys to cleaners to other light jobs, and they were paid between $12 and $23 per month, depending on their abilities and responsibilities.

This not only kept them out of trouble during the endless summer days, but it also taught them the realities of earning a livelihood and the value of hourly wages.

Younger children had to be kept

64 | St. Charles Avenue www.saintcharlesavenue.com

busy as well, and the NYA and WPA joined with the New Orleans Fire Department, the Sewerage and Water Board and the Council of Social Agencies to implement the “Summer Showers” program. In the summer of 1936, the program started the summer with 28 weekly showers scattered across the city’s firehouses, increasing the number of them as the summer dragged on.

Streets would be closed, fire hydrants opened and fire hoses with special nozzles turned on for

an hour or two. Kids could run and play and tire themselves out, being cooled off (and cleaned!) by the water in the process. The only real rule was that bathing attire was required by all. F

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Keeping kids and teens occupied during the long, hot summer days with no school has been a challenge for generations of New Orleanians. In the 1930s, the National Youth Administration stepped in to assist the Works Project Administration in finding job opportunities for needy youth.

In New Orleans during the summer of 1936, over 200 youths between the ages of 16 and 25 were employed on projects ranging from helping repair buildings in Audubon Zoo and the Jackson

The Summer Showers Program kicks off on Broad Street on July 7, 1939. Photo provided courtesy of the New Orleans Public Library.