The East Summer-Fall 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS EAST NEW ORLEANS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT Custom Publishing Manager Jessica DeBold Art Director Ali Sullivan East NOLA BDD Chairman Sean Bruno East NOLA BDD Communications Committee Lynnette White-Colin, Troy Henry, Sean Bruno, Larry Johnson, Mtumishi St. Julien, Karen Coaxum Contributing Writers Andrea Blumenstein, Alexa Renee Harrison, William Kalec, Sam Lucio, Sarah Ravits Contributing Photographer Cheryl Gerber Account Executive Brennan Manale 504-830-7298 Brennan@myneworleans.com Traffic Manager Topher Balfer Production Designers Emily Andras, Rosa Balaguer, Meghan Rooney

The Lakefront Airport Page 11

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Letter From the Chairman About East New Orleans BDD

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Executive Committee & Board Members

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Community Projects and Events

COVER STORY

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The Lakefront Airport

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Map of the Airport

PROFILE

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City Councilwoman Cyndi Nguyen

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The EAST New Orleans

Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne

LIVING IN THE EAST

Executive Vice President/ Editor in Chief Errol Laborde

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Kingswood

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President Alan Campbell

Eastover

Vice President of Sales Colleen Monaghan

BUSINESSES IN THE EAST

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Deanies Restaurant & Bar

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Freezy Street

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SEA Academy

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By the Numbers

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Investors & Acknowledgements

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Photo Gallery

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Member Levels & Benefits

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Member Application

Custom Published By

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Copyright 2018 The EAST, East New Orleans Business Development and Renaissance Publishing LLC. Postage Paid at New Orleans and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to East NOLA DDB, 7240 Crowder Blvd #301, New Orleans, LA 70127. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine’s managers, owners or publisher. The Jefferson Chamber is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self addressed stamped envelope.

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The EAST New Orleans

LETTER FROM THE 2018 CHAIRMAN

ABOUT EAST NOLA BDD

T Sean M. Bruno Chairman 2018

No Time To Waste.

As a freshman at Morehouse College our President Dr. Leroy Keith read a poem written by former College President, Dr. Benjamin Mays. It read like this: “I’ve only just a minute, only sixty seconds in it. Forced upon me, can’t refuse it, didn’t seek it, didn’t choose it, but it’s up to me to use it. I must suffer if I lose it, give an account if I abuse it, just a tiny little minute—but eternity is in it.”

The time to act is now. There is no time to waste. We have been waiting for change in our community for too long. We have given our time and energy through our participation in cleanup projects throughout New Orleans East.

We have given our time by partnering with UPS and other organizations to remove illegally dumped tires from our community. We dedicated our time to family and friends that were impacted by the tornado that devastated a section of our community, and helping them cleanup from the destruction.

We have given our time to attending dedication ceremonies for our hospital and the few businesses that have opened in our community. We have given our time to participate in focus groups to discuss a new power plant in our community. We continuously give our time to sit in on blight and planning meetings at City Hall to listen and discuss projects that impact our community.

We spent our time standing in lines waiting to vote to elect officials to lead and work with us to make our community better.

This time we’ve dedicated is not wasted, and we are now expecting a return on our most significant and important investments in the community.

I have known Mayor Latoya Cantrell since the early 90s. I know that she has the dedication and commitment to make New Orleans East a better place to live. I have worked with our new City Councilperson Cyndi Nguyen long before she ever expressed an interest in public office, and I know the dedication and beaucoup passion that she has for “the E.” I have also worked with John Bagneris, Jimmie Harris, JP Morrell, and Wesley Bishop on many issues that impact our community. They are our leadership. We expect them to work in the best interest of our community and take the lead in making our community a better place to live, work and play.

We, the residents of New Orleans East, are all vested in this community. The time is now. We have no time to waste. We must all work together to make New Orleans East not just what it was, but the thriving community it deserves to be. I do see a brighter future for New Orleans East and I am committed to continue to give of my time to the betterment of this great community. I hope you enjoy this issue of The East.

he East New Orleans Business Development District (East NOLA BDD) is a non-profit, 501(c)3 established to foster, coordinate and catalyze initiatives that improve the business climate and quality of life in East NOLA through business development, infrastructure improvements, and image enhancement, in order to grow good jobs, investments and tax revenues in the City of New Orleans.

The 13 member Board of East NOLA BDD is comprised of a cross section of credible and respected business and civic leaders with a track record of garnering the support, partnerships and resources to implement a targeted economic revitalization strategy.

COMMERCIAL AND RETAIL DEVELOPMENT Catalyze the growth of retail and commercial developments along existing corridors integrated into unique, interesting and pedestrian-oriented centers of neighborhood and destination- based retail, office, residential and entertainment uses.

BLIGHT, BEAUTIFICATION AND QUALITY OF LIFE Improve the attractiveness and marketability of major commercial corridors through the elimination of commercial blight, infrastructure improvements, increased code enforcement and public safety measures.

IMAGE ENHANCEMENT AND BRANDING Improve business competitiveness and opportunities in East New Orleans through business education, training and marketing initiatives. Launch a communications campaign that educates key stakeholder groups on the economic assets, successful business investments and market opportunities in East New Orleans (monthly E-News, website, Facebook, Twitter). East NOLA BDD hosts special events (e.g. food festivals, mural art competition, business briefings) that build awareness of the positive developments and market potential of East New Orleans.

Sincerely, Sean Bruno, Chairman East New Orleans Business Development District

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE & BOARD MEMBERS

Sean M. Bruno Chairperson 2018 Sean M. Bruno CPA

Brian Egana Vice-Chairperson Circular Consulting

Lynnette White-Colin Secretary New Orleans Business Alliance

J.C. Celestin Treasurer Celestin Enterprise, Inc.

Anthony Bridges Board Member Fidelity Bank

Bradley Pipes Board Member Cox Communications

Dwight Barnes Board Member Crescent Crown Distributing

Henry L. Coaxum Board Member Coaxum Enterprises, Inc.

Jerry Cook Board Member Folgers Coffee

Larry Johnson Board Member Franklin Avenue Baptist (Ret.)

Marc Leunissen Board Member Cox Media (Ret.)

Sheila Glass Board Member Franklin Avenue Baptist Church 6

The EAST New Orleans

Troy Henry Board Member Henry Consulting, LLC

Mtumishi St. Julien Board Member The Finance Authority of N.O. (Ret.)

Wade Verges Board Member Wade T. Verges Construction Co.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

2018 COMMUNITY PROJECTS & EVENTS BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS NETWORKING Spend happy hour with fellow business professionals to unwind, share tips and tricks of the trade for developing new business.

REAL-ESTATE SITE SELECTION AND MARKET ANALYSIS TOOL

Introducing an integrated tool with a combined strategy, design and technological purpose to create a digital analysis of the community impact from economic investment in the East. The solution stack for this tool includes a site selection and market analysis; property inventory and data collection; data integration and fusing; digital marketing and outreach tools and executive and operational dashboards.

COMMUNITY REPORTS

The East NOLA BDD reports and monitors the process of adjudication, demolition or rehabilitation of large-scale, intrusive commercial blight in our community that diminishes our quality of life and positive economic growth in East New Orleans.

COMMUNITY REPORTS

The East NOLA BDD reports and monitors the process of adjudication, demolition or rehabilitation of large-scale, intrusive commercial blight in our community that diminishes our quality of life and positive economic growth in East New Orleans.

ADOPT-A-CORRIDOR CAMPAIGN ENOLA BDD will soon launch a campaign where businesses, homeowner associations, subdivision security and improvement taxing districts or civic organizations can adopt a corridor to maintain.

SAVE THE DATE! LINEN NIGHT IN THE EAST | AUDUBON LOUISIANA NATURE CENTER SEPTEMBER 21 6 P.M. – 9 P.M. BUSINESS NETWORKING NIGHT OCTOBER 25 5:30 P.M. – 7:30 PM For information on any of these events or community projects, email enolabdd@gmail.com.

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The EAST New Orleans

Once an aviation marvel, the New Orleans Lakefront Airport terminal and the developments surrounding it have transformed it back to — and perhaps better than — its former glory 10

The EAST New Orleans

BY WILLIAM KALEC

he object of Jesse Noel’s affection is more than 80 years old, proving once again that true love knows no age and that the right makeover can do wonders.

Not a work day goes by that the Interim Director of Aviation at New Orleans Lakefront Airport doesn’t take a moment to admire his surroundings, namely the restored terminal building that serves dually as a preserved piece of the past, and a reassuring symbol of what lies ahead for this area of the city.

“To me, there’s not a better building in the entire city. Every day I come here, it feels like you’re stepping back in history,” Noel said. “This entire area around the airport and the lakefront is really a hidden gem with so much untapped potential.”

Untapped? Maybe. Undiscovered?

Hardly.

Over the last decade, the entire Lakefront area of the city has taken the first steps in what will be a decadeslong civic makeover that, once complete, will transform it forever. Investors and developers have already put their brainpower and bucks into various projects, following the lead of those who decided to renovate the airport terminal post-Katrina.

attachment to this building increases with time. It doesn’t diminish.”

However, much of the terminal’s original architectural charm was lost in a massive renovation project in the mid1960s. The rework covered more than 100 windows, encased the exterior in cement panels and closed off the secondfloor balcony overlooking the lobby. The cold, generic vibe lasted for 40 years until Hurricane Katrina flooded the terminal

| COVER STORY

with four feet of water, causing millions in damage.

While some wanted to do away with the terminal to make way for other commercial projects, airport officials fought hard to save this historic building. Close to $19 million in federal aid was poured into repairing and beautifying the terminal, making it a prime commercial space for aviation businesses, but also lawyers

PHOTOS BY CHERYL GERBER

HISTORY COMES ALIVE

The cool thing about the terminal at Lakefront Airport is, though it has changed – drastically changed, to be specific – it has somehow managed to stay almost exactly the same as when it first opened in 1934.

On Feb. 10, 1934, 10,000 spectators attended the airport’s dedication, making it the “Air Hub of the Americas.” Built on a man-made peninsula, Lakefront Airport cost $4.5 million back then. Part of that price tag obviously included the terminal, which received rave reviews for not only its functionality, but more so for its artistic and architectural splendor.

“I’m in awe of this building,” said Wilma Heaton, Chair of the Lakefront Airport Committee. “I’ve had an office here since 1996, but I’m still in awe of the whole thing. Guess the day that stops is the day I shouldn’t be doing this anymore. I still pinch myself. My

The fully refurbished PT-305 boat from the National World War II Museum at Lakeshore Landing New Orleans

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COVER STORY | BY WILLIAM KALEC and financial investment firms.

“Katrina really did give us an opening to restore it to the splendor of 1934,” Heaton said. “I like to say we restored it to 1934, not 1964, because there’s no comparison to the original design. This is history. This is a part of the Golden Age of Aviation.

“So it was important to restore it properly.

And we’re glad we did, because it’s been a spark in the revitalization of the whole area.”

ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION ON THE LAKEFRONT

The vision of Ronald and Mary Von Kurnatowski, owners of Tipitina’s and the newly-restored Orpheum Theater, is to connect entertainment, recreation, boating, music, food and more on 20 acres of picturesque lakefront.

The reality — once all phases are complete in the next two to three years — the area will be a must-experience destination for locals and tourists alike in a city already full of them.

In 2015, the Orleans Parish NonFlood Protection Asset Management Authority approved the plan for a project now known as Lakeshore Landing New Orleans — a multipurpose facility and entertainment venue. In the Fall of 2017, Lakeshore Landing hosted a “sneak peek” free concert featuring local bands and various food trucks as a defacto early invitation to the site.

While much of the project is still being built, there are existing reasons to check it out mid-process. Lakeshore Landing staff can host special/private events on the waterfront. For a less-complicated affair, the Landing’s pop-up marina bar and café is open on the weekends and features live music in the summer and football watch parties on fall Sundays.

Lastly, the Landing is home to a fully refurbished PT-305 boat from the National World War II Museum and is fully operational for tours and even rides.

Upon completion, the Landing will have a 5,000-seat outdoor theater, multiple retail and dining options and an open-air market.

“The efforts made possible by private donations have been remarkable,” Heaton said. “It’s creating a great synergy, starting with the terminal restoration and now the revitalization of what surrounds it.”

MORE THAN A MEAL

It’s fitting that it took an Old School method for Catering Colossus George Messina to breathe new life into a classic Old School venue.

“How did this all begin?” he repeats.

“Actually, my mother read a newspaper article that the Walnut Room was coming back, and she told me to check it out. So I took a chance, and fell in love with the building.”

Of course, Mother knows best.

Back in the 1940s, 50s and 60s, the Walnut Room at the Lakefront Terminal was THE place for high school proms and weddings. And thanks to Messina and his mother’s loyal readership, it is again, more than a half-century later.

Known today as Messina’s At The Terminal — a culinary venue with a stand-alone restaurant and multiple Art Deco rooms to host a variety of largescale formal gatherings — the spot has recaptured its former glory under George and his family, becoming a mustbook destination for an entirely new generation.

Mix this one-of-a-kind setting with an ambitious yet true-to-the region menu, created and executed by chef Leon West, and it’s understandable why Messina’s won the 2017 Best Independent Caterer Award and was named a Top 3 venue by New Orleans CityBusiness Magazine.

“In the catering business, you’re always looking for unique — in this case, a unique building,” George said. “You need something that separates you from everyone else in the city. And that’s what this place does. There’s nothing like it in the city of New Orleans that looks, feels, or gives you the ambiance of this venue.”

“I knew it the first time I laid eyes on it,” said George.

Messina’s substantial floor plan at the Lakefront Terminal offers both indoor options for receptions approaching 200

PHOTOS BY CHERYL GERBER

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The EAST New Orleans

George Messina

patrons and outside options that overlook Lake Pontchartrain and the airport runway.

With enough notice, Messina’s crew can accommodate almost any request, including some newlyweds’ wish to have a private plane take them around the city

before, during or after the reception.

“We want you to come and have a meal, and have bottomless mimosas on the weekend, or a Bloody Mary, and just get away from your week,” George said.

“But, in the end, it’s all about creating

memories. It’s the pictures you take here, whether it be for a wedding or high school prom or a gala, and the nostalgia that comes with the Art Deco decor.”

There’s really just nothing like it.

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NEW ORLEANS LAKEFRONT AIRPORT BUILDING MAP 1 ARFF Station 2 Delgado Hangar 3 Air Traffic Control Tower

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4 McDermott Hangar 5 T-Hangars 7

6 James Wedell Hangar 7 Mosquito Control Hangar 8 Signature Hangar 9 Moffet Hangar 10 Main Terminal

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11 Williams Hangar 12 Bastian Mitchell Hangar 13 National Guard Hangar

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PROFILE | BY SARAH RAVITS

Labors of Leadership CYNDI NGUYEN CONTINUES EFFORTS TO IMPROVE NEW ORLEANS EAST AND BEYOND

As the executive director of a nonprofit, a former board member of the East NOLA Business Development District, and a new member of the New Orleans City Council, Cyndi Nguyen has spearheaded significant improvements in the city, and will continue to ramp up efforts to improve the area and constituents that she serves.

She won a seat on the City Council in 2017, representing District E, an expansive region of New Orleans that includes the Lower Ninth Ward, parts of Gentilly and New Orleans East. The latter neighborhood is where she was raised after emigrating from Vietnam at the age of 5.

“I have known Cyndi for many years.

And, I continue to be impressed by her passion and commitment to the New Orleans East community. She has tremendous energy and a strong grasp of the issues that affect her constituents,” said Troy Henry, Managing Partner at Henry Consulting and ENOBDD executive board member. “Cyndi is the former Vice Chairperson of the ENOBDD, where she established herself as a visionary and a true go-getter. New Orleans East is on the right track with Cyndi at the helm.”

Cyndi said that she has always wanted to positively impact the community.

In 2001, she launched Vietnamese Initiatives in Economic Training (VIET), which helps “bridge the gaps” between people of different ethnic backgrounds.

As executive director of the nonprofit, she developed educational and economic training programs, allowing the organi-

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The EAST New Orleans

zation to serve as a resource center for minority residents in Louisiana. It also helps non-English speaking communities integrate into American society despite cultural and language barriers they face.

“Politics comes with it,” she said.

“I’ve always had an interest in serving people.” In her various leadership positions, she said she will continue to “focus on the needs of the people.”

She firmly believes in the potential for opportunity in New Orleans East, despite its current problems.

One of her main goals is to help the East — and the city as a whole — to eliminate blight, which is particularly rampant in the areas she represents.

August 2018 will mark 13 years since Hurricane Katrina devastated the area, and Nguyen notes that “a large number of blighted properties still haven’t received the attention they require to move forward.”

Nguyen is focused on “cleaning up the district. It has to start with the clean-up.”

She acknowledges that trash removal alone in the area isn’t enough. She also wants to “change the behaviors” that lead to littering and blight in the first place, by continuing to improve the quality of education.

“People should not be trashing their community,” she said. “The cycle has to end. We have to focus on education.”

Nguyen has hosted clean-up days, and said the Board is working on “encouraging groups and neighborhood associations to host clean-ups in their

neighborhoods. We are also meeting with partners in the criminal justice system to see if we can incorporate a community service program for those who have committed minor offenses to help.”

In the near future, she hopes to establish an official anti-litter campaign for not just the East, but the city as a whole.

Her efforts toward improving education have had some positive results so far: Soon, a Head Start school will open its doors in New Orleans East.

Head Start, a federally funded program through the Department of Health and Human Services, provides early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and families.

Its establishment in the area is one of the accomplishments Nguyen is most proud of in her role as a leader in the community.

“I’ve been focusing on this for eight years,” she said. “It’s finally opening in September. Seeing kids that don’t have access to an early childhood learning environment finally getting access to it — that’s a good feeling to have.”

“As a Board member Cyndi was a driving force in helping the East NOLA Business Development District begin its campaign to consciously and confidently celebrate the many assets of Eastern New Orleans,” said Mtumishi St. Julien, ENOBDD executive board member. “As a City Council member, we are certain she will continue to use this same strategy to help attract more investment and business development to the East.”

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LIVING IN THE EAST | BY SARAH RAVITS

» The Kingswood Subdivision

rests just off of I-10 and boasts 97-percent of its population being homeowners. Residents invest in the area’s prosperity. Members of the community cherish Kingswood for its peaceful, friendly and welcoming neighborhoods, and describe the area as quiet and family friendly with clean, wellmaintained parks. Pictured: Melanie Thomas, President of the Kingswood Improvement District Association.

A Steady Comeback KINGSWOOD SUBDIVISION’S RENOVATED HOMES, ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND COMMUNITY CAMARADERIE

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The EAST New Orleans

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

The New Orleans population expanded into the East in the 1960s, and the area became the host of family-friendly and community-minded neighborhoods that we see today.

Each subdivision has its own identity and homes built in a variety of architectural styles.

The Kingswood Subdivision development began in the late ’70s and early ’80s, and today stands out as one of those unique and desirable places to reside.

Since 2005, the Kingswood Subdivision has made a tremendous comeback. Kingswood’s residents are loyal; most pre-Katrina residents returned home for its character and unbeaten charm. One such resident is Melanie Thomas, a New Orleans native who has lived in New Orleans East for 19 years. She is so passionate about the neighborhood that she also happens to be the president of the Kingswood Improvement District Association, a volunteer position and a labor of love that she has taken on for the past two years.

Thomas said that her duties include implementing neighborhood stabilization initiatives along with promoting a “beautiful, safe, healthy and clean environment for residents and pets,” she said. She also works to develop and sustain effective drainage infrastructure for the area.

Thompson estimates that at least “90 percent of the homes in Kingswood are back.”

Much of the steady comeback comes from the sense of community that has long been a crucial part of the neighborhood’s identity. Currently, 340 homes in the subdivision have been renovated and repaired post-storm.

“There is no new construction; the homes are renovated, often with modifications

and updates,” she said. Thomas hopes the subdivision will expand and add new constructions to accommodate its growth and continued improvement in the upcoming years.

“We are always looking for projects and initiatives to improve our community,” said Thomas.

“We have added a front entrance median to add beautification to the subdivision entry, and solar lighting along the pre-cast fence.”

Plans for the future also include installing pet-friendly waste stations throughout the subdivision.

Some of the popular neighborhood attractions include an eight-acre park, which has a solar shelter; a walking path; a baseball diamond; a KaBoom!

Playground built by volunteers around 2006; and a basketball court.

“It is family-friendly. People are very friendly, and they support each other.

Kingswood families are a true testament to what neighbors are,” said Thomas.

Though the neighborhood has a distinct identity, Thomas said it’s accessible and draws in residents of other communities, as well.

“It’s the most desirable and affordable place for working families to live, play and relax,” she said, adding that it is also in proximity to several private and public schools.

Even with its growth, the subdivision remains very quiet, almost a “country” feeling; you can hear nature around you, which is something residents appreciate.

The homes in Kingswood are easy to maintain, mostly built out of brick and are energy-efficient with a high federal energy-efficiency rating.

Ultimately, she said, “We want people to feel they have made the right choice to raise their families here.”

BY ALEXA RENÉE HARRISON

| LIVING IN THE EAST

High-Quality Neighbors

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

EASTOVER SUBDIVISION SETS THE BAR HIGH Mark Moody and his wife Lynette built and moved into their home in the Eastover Subdivision in 2001 after outgrowing their first home in the Oak Island Phase II Subdivision in New Orleans East.

“We decided to live in Eastover for its picturesque look, and we wanted a safe environment to raise our children,” said Moody.

Eastover is a unique gated community with custom homes that include Acadian, Colonial, French Chateau, Southern, Victorian, and Mediterranean-style. There are 300 homes within the community, some of which are situated on the waterfront, and all of which have breathtaking views of scenic surroundings.

The community is located 12 miles from the French Quarter and CBD and 25 miles from the airport. But for Moody, a reversed commuter who is Lead Engineer in the NASA Rocket Propulsion Test Program Office, it’s equally conveniently located.

“I work at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, which is located directly across the Louisiana/Mississippi line,” Moody said.

“My daily commute is 38 miles and is a pleasant ride in that there is minor traffic heading out of the city in the morning and minor traffic as I head home in the afternoon.”

Moody’s wife, Lynette, is a Technology Teacher and Department Chair at Academy of the Sacred Heart, located on St. Charles Avenue — making New Orleans East a central location for them both.

Aside from convenient commutes, Moody cites the quietness, safe environment, green space, lakes, well-maintained properties, and friendly neighbors, as his favorite aspects of living in Eastover.

“I feel very safe living in Eastover, and I am sure that living in a gated community contributes to that feeling,” said Moody. “I remember a past Times-Picayune article that identified Eastover as one of the safest neighborhoods in New Orleans to live.”

Moody’s sense of security is in part due to the diligence of The Eastover Property Owners Association (EPOA), which employs a small full-time staff to handle administrative functions for the subdivision. They are managed by the EPOA Board of Directors, who are elected by the property owners and serve without compensation. The EPOA Board of Directors staff is charged with maintaining the common grounds and ensuring that the association’s Acts of Restrictions are followed. Moody is past Chairman of the board.

While living in Eastover the past 17 years, Moody has observed many changes in the community, and of course, has his favorite spots. “Joe Brown Park is a great place for

» Just south of Lake Pontchartrain lies the picturesque community of

Eastover. Residences here include mid- to large-sized single-family homes.

Eastover offers residents the perks of living in a gated, suburban community and the convenience of a nearby urban setting. The community’s location is enough distance from the hustle and bustle of downtown without more than a 20-minute commute to the French Quarter. Eastover has vast green spaces, lakes and ponds, so residents enjoy a quaint setting for walking pets, jogging and more. There is a real sense of community for families, with neighborhood gatherings including the fun and games at the annual Harvest Fest on the grounds.

There is access to a variety of schools in the area, including Lake Forest Charter School, Sarah T. Reed High School and Fannie C. Williams Charter School, among others. Residents enjoy local flavors at nearby Tony’s Super Cajun Seafood and baked goods from the infamous Dong Phuong Vietnamese Bakery and Restaurant. Pictured: Mark and Lynette Moody, Eastover Residents since 2001. outside exercise,” Moody said, “and we are particularly excited about the reopening of the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center.”

While Moody and his wife now live alone with their two rescued dogs, Maggie and Max, they once had a full house in Eastover with their three children — Jaime, Shari, and Jon. New Orleans residents may recognize Moody’s youngest, Jon, from his role on Bravo TV’s Southern Charm New Orleans.

“Watching our son on reality TV was interesting, and we accept it as an entertainment opportunity that allows him to showcase his works and endeavors as an artist,” said Moody. “It was also fun watching our daughter Shari appear in episode two of Southern Charm New Orleans with Jon.” Shari, the Moody’s middle child, is a Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who works in the mental health field and also in private practice. Meanwhile, the Moody’s eldest child, Jaime, is a United States Diplomat.

It’s clear that the Moody family sets the bar high when it comes to neighbors in Eastover.

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BUSINESS IN THE EAST | BY ANDREA BLUMENSTEIN

»

Deanie’s Restaurant & Bar 7350 Hayne Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70126 504-248-6700 Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m – 4 p.m.

Friday: 11 a.m – 10 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday: CLOSED @Deanie’sRestaurant&Bar Pictured: Phyllis Luzcy, Owner of Deanie’s Restaurant & Bar.

Refurbished Treasure LONGSTANDING RESTAURANT BRINGS THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER AT DEANIE’S BAR & RESTAURANT

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The EAST New Orleans

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

A few years ago, Phyllis Luzcy was happily retired. Out of the restaurant business, she thought, for good. But, as the future of Eastern New Orleans teetered on a crux, fate pushed her in a different direction.

Luzcy, owner of the Deanie’s Restaurant & Bar, grew up in the industry tradition. Her parents first opened shop in the warehouse district, and over the 25 years of ownership, expanded to additional ventures, including the one in the East. She is careful to note that her business is not affiliated with the similarly monikered restaurant on Lake Street in Bucktown.

She recalls fondly a youth spent fishing for flounder and softshell crabs on Hayne Blvd, “It was thriving, literally. The plaza was in full swing; there were businesses. It was the place to live. Houses were very expensive, it was beautiful.”

Luzcy also recalls how the family business in the warehouse district barely survived the World’s Fair in 1984, where bankruptcy resulted in a litany of unpaid bills that the city couldn’t pay. But, like it goes in New Orleans, a series of neighborhood resurgence and apartment and condominium renovations took place. “It became more beneficial to lease out the space,” she said, welcoming retirement. Her nephew took the helm at the restaurant in the East and her sister owned her own eatery on the West Bank.

In years following Hurricane Katrina, Deanie’s Restaurant & Bar, opened by Luzcy’s mother in 1972, showed little resemblance to its former self as business declined along with the population. The East had turned into a desolate place and Luzcy’s nephew decided to part ways with the establishment.

When the news reached Luzcy’s 82-year-old mother, she was devastated about the restaurant closing. “So I told her I’d open it and clean it up and we could put it up for sale,” said Phyllis. And that was the plan — to clean it and sell it, that was until she fell in love with the East once again.

“After the restaurant opened, it became a project of mine to figure out what the problems were; I got involved in the politics in New Orleans East and began taking a stand,” said Luzcy.

After a complete renovation, Deanie’s Restaurant & Bar is back in action, serving fresh Louisiana seafood. “Business is really good and the people in New Orleans East are too,” she said. “There is a whole lot of middle class working people out here that wanted somewhere to go out to eat,” she added.

The menu changes daily, featuring seasonal seafood, traditional creole dishes and homemade desserts. The lakefront restaurant seats between 80-100 guests and is open for dine-in and take out.

Of course, the family-owned restaurant would love you to stop by to see what’s on the menu, and they use their Facebook page to post the daily menu for those looking to call ahead.

Every day, as more people come and feast on fresh caught Louisiana seafood, hope builds.

Recently, Luzcy purchased the two adjacent lots and the family has plans to open a seafood market on one lot and hopes to start a community garden on the other. “The more I meet people, the more I get involved in local government issues, the more I realize my heart is here,” she said. “I made a commitment to this and I hope that my daughter, would continue our legacy.”

BY ALEXA RENÉE HARRISON

| BUSINESS IN THE EAST

Sweets In The East

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

FREEZY STREET FILLS A MARKET GAP (WITH ROLLED ICE CREAM) Ashley Wilson and her husband Charles purchased a Freezy Street franchise because they wanted to bring something different and cool to New Orleans East.

Freezy Street is both.

“My kids loved the original Freezy Street,” said Wilson. “We took my husband after going a few weekends, and he loved it so much. The lines were out the door every night. It was then when I realized they were a big deal.”

Ashley and Charles worked together with Freezy Street owners Adam Enterkin and Frances LaMagna to develop a plan for franchising Freezy Street and opening a second location in New Orleans East.

“We always thought the East would be a great place to be,” Enterkin said. “They wanted it, and we wanted to franchise.”

The Wilson’s, who have lived in New Orleans East for most of their lives, were very intent on bringing this business to their community, and for Enterkin, it was a logical move.

“There are more than 80,000 people in the East and not nearly enough businesses,” said Enterkin.

The Thai rolled ice cream and snoball shop, which opened on May 26, has received excellent feedback from East New Orleans’ residents so far.

“We get ‘thank you for bringing business to the East’ all the time from our customers,” Wilson said. “I like to think we’re helping to fill a gap in the market here.”

That gap is now indeed filled, with quality ice cream.

“Fran and Adam have done a great job with keeping the ice cream high-quality at a reasonable price,” said Wilson. “This is another reason we decided on this franchise. It’s so good, and I’m not just saying that because I own one.”

Wilson’s favorite flavor of rolled ice cream is “Oh’ Puddin,” which she describes

»

Freezy Street New Orleans East, 10709 Chef Menteur Hwy. Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. @freezystreetnoe Pictured: Ashley and Charles Wilson, Owners of Freezy Street in New Orleans East. as “the most awesome thing I’ve ever tasted.” The ice cream is made with real pudding — yum. As far as the best-selling flavor, Wilson said that would be “Cookie Monster.”

“I can’t lie, I’ve always wanted to open an ice cream shop,” Wilson said. “I reached out to a few ice cream parlors, and I’m so happy we went with Freezy Street. It’s one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.”

Enterkin echoes Wilson’s sentiment, “It makes sense to put a Freezy Street in New Orleans East — where else would you want to go?”

Wilson is excited to have a place in the East where her kids and their friends can come to hang out and enjoy some ice cream in a safe and sweet environment.

Freezy Street now joins the ranks of other New Orleans East favorites like MadChef at 59th Restaurant & Bar. Wilson said she and her husband plan on opening more businesses in the East soon. But for now, they’re working on their second franchise location, which will be on the West Bank.

“We’re just blessed to have an opportunity like this,” said Wilson. “We have been able to create jobs and help our community. It’s been an awesome experience!”

EastNolabdd.com

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BUSINESS IN THE EAST | BY ANDREA BLUMENSTEIN

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For enrollment information call 504-241-3909 or visit 10080 Morrison Road New Orleans, LA 70127 Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m-6p.m. www.sea2academy.com

SEA Academy Reaches Full Sail A HEAD START FOR STUDENTS AND A STEP-UP FOR STAFF

22

The EAST New Orleans

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

Twelve years ago, the now-owner of SEA Academy was looking for childcare and couldn’t find anything.

After Hurricane Katrina, proximal childcare was essentially non-existent in the East. As more families and residents returned to home and work, the need for high quality early childhood care amplified.

Some of the best ideas come out of personal need. If something doesn’t exist, you might just have to make it. Better still, why not in your own backyard. Twelve years ago, this was the answer to one woman’s problem of finding quality childcare.

Beyond just childcare, the end result was a cornerstone of education where early childhood professionals who could not only assist the children, but also help the family transition to the preschool environment could employ best practices in nurturing and developing young minds.

Today, SEA Academy employs over 25 people and has been able to expand significantly over the past three years. The school, which draws most of its attendees through word of mouth, previously utilized a wait list for admissions. Now, the center has increased capacity to 130 children and has, at the time of press, 20 spots available for Early Head Start and pre-Kindergarten programs.

As a participant in the state-funded Louisiana Believes program, SEA Academy must meet specific standards. The school is listed as proficient in early childhood performance rating and proudly offers the same top-tier curriculum to youths enrolled free of charge through state aid for families below the line of poverty as those matriculated through private tuition.

Niki Dajon serves as Operations Manager, overseeing the business and the day-to-day operations, as well as, staff development. “Our major push is to provide support so that our teachers become better teachers.”

One major focus is encouraging Child Development Associate (CDA) certification among the staff. This is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education and is seen as a launching point for further career advancement.

For Niki Dajon, who started working at SEA Academy as an administrative assistant after undergrad, the center turned into something more than just a first job post-college. “I wanted to be a teacher, I had a passion for being in the classroom,” she said, “but this ended up to be he perfect blend of both worlds.”

Her responsibilities within the organization grew from their simple beginnings to tap into her interest in both business operations and education. “I became a certified trainer to facilitate continuing education for our teachers,” says Dajon, who also recently earned a master in business form Loyola University.

Dajon is responsible for teacher performance reviews designed to help the educators consistently improve. Both the students and the teachers live in the same community.

Investing in their employees as well as their students reflects the big picture mentality of the leadership.

“We love the community here,” said Dajon. “We’ve had the fire department come out for the past few years with the truck to do a safety demonstration and let the kids explore the truck.”

The center is a mixture of those paying a flat rate for student tuition and those sponsored by government programs. 95% of the students are hyper-local, but the facility is open to the Greater New Orleans Area.

SEA Academy is able to keep things local by working with their neighbors, Universal Printing, who provides flexible printing options for the growing organization.

Children learn through observing.

The staff at SEA Academy serve as facilitators, providing the materials, equipment and experience to encourage children to learn on an emotional and physical level.

The leadership at SEA Academy puts just as much energy into supporting the teachers in their education and personal growth as youths in the program. Continuing education is mandatory for early childcare professionals, and SEA Academy endeavors to support its staff however possible, whether through continuing education, financial assistant or other.

Even experienced parents can feel a lot of pressure around selecting the right preschool.

EAST NEW ORLEANS BY THE NUMBERS Greater New Orleans has a cost of doing business that makes it one of the most affordable locations around the U.S. East New Orleans is a prime location for developers to use these advantages with its expansive land, access to a frequented interstate highway and large residential population.

20%

The East population is projected to increase by 20% from 2017-2022.

Nearly 1/5 of East New Orleans households have an annual income above

$75,000

#4

New Orleans is ranked the #4 “Coolest City in America”

by Forbes in 2017

New Orleans is ranked

TOP 10

“City of the Future” in the Western Hemisphere for Connectivity & Foreign Investment by fDi in 2017

85,117

Total population of East New Orleans, which is more than 5% of the region’s population and nearly 1/5th of the of Orleans Parish population.

#10

New Orleans is ranked the

“City That Millennials Can Afford — and Actually Want to Live In” by The Penny Hoarder

100,000

#1

New Orleans is ranked #1 in USA for Tech Growth and #5 for Women in Tech by SmartAsset in 2017

24

The EAST New Orleans

66% East New Orleans comprises 66 percent of the city’s land mass, providing distinct opportunities for industrial and other major commercial developments.

25%

Employed residents in Greater New Orleans work in educational services, and health care – the largest single industry for residents of the East.

#3

vehicles travel through East New Orleans via the I-10 corridor every day.

453

26

open slips and covered slips are available at South Shore Harbor Marina, accomodating vessels up to 100 feet

51%

New Orleans is the #3 Major US City for Population Growth according to the U.S. Census

of New Orleans East Population are homeowners SOURCES: GNO, Inc, EMSI, census.gov

EastNolabdd.com

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INVESTORS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

THANK YOU!

PRESIDENTIAL CIRCLE

The East NOLA BDD would like to thank the following contributors and partners for their support of our organization.

• Wade T. Verges • Air Products

WADE T. VERGES CONSTRUCTION CO.

• Councilperson Nguyen’s Office • GNO, Inc. • Cliff Robinson • New Orleans Business Alliance

EXECUTIVE CIRCLE

• Karen Coaxum • Ron Wright • Robert Packnett - R & P Landscaping

• Loews Home Improvement • Home Depot • Walmart • New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood • Vietnamese Initiatives in Economic Training (VIET)

• New Orleans Lakefront Airport • East New Orleans Economic Development • STUDS Club • Sphinx Foundation • Jacoby Jones Foundation

26

The EAST New Orleans

PARTNERS

PHOTO GALLERY ENOBDD BOARD MEMBERS TAKE A TOUR OF NASA/MICHOUD FACILITY

J.C. Celestin, NASA Executive Lonnie Dutreix, Deputy COO, Cyndi Nguyen, Larry Johnson, Marc Leunissen, Lynnette White-Colin, Anthony Bridges

Cyndi Nguyen, Larry Johnson, NASA/Michoud Employees

Brian Egana, Lynnette White-Colin, Mtumishi St. Julien, J. C. Celestin

28

The EAST New Orleans

PHOTO GALLERY INTERNATIONAL RETAIL CONVENTION (RECON), LAS VEGAS, NV

Top Left: Councilmember Nguyen with retail developer Top Right: Councilmember Nguyen, Lynnette White-Colin, Stephanie Bell, Annala Wills

PERVIOUS CONCRETE DEMONSTRATION AT FRANKLIN AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH

CORE/ Livers Construction pervious concrete demonstration at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church Site

Thomas Krumins, Lynnette White-Colin, Louis Livers, Nathan Lott, Kyle Culverhouse

EastNolabdd.com

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PHOTO GALLERY THE EAST MAGAZINE RELEASE EVENT

Attendees at The EAST winter publication magazine release event

Marc Leunissen, Cyndi Nguyen, Dwight Barnes

MCDONALD’S POST-RENOVATION GRAND OPENING

Tangee Wall

Coaxum Enterprises welcomed the local community to an “Experience of the Future”, where guests were invited to a “Remodel Reveal” at the Bullard Avenue McDonalds.

Pictured are: Sean Bruno, Troy Henry, Cyndi Nguyen, Karen Coaxum, Henry Coaxum, Larry Johnson and Mtumishi St. Julien.

Cyndi Nguyen and Lynnette White-Colin

MEMBERSHIP LEVELS & BENEFITS

PLATINUM BUSINESS SPONSORSHIP Benefits of Membership

ANNUAL DONATION $5,000+

• Co-sponsor of the East New Orleans Business Development District’s State of the District Breakfast Summit

• Logo prominently displayed on all promotional materials, events and the website

• Co-sponsor of annual Linen Night in the East (September)

• Listing in business directory of “The East” Magazine for the (Winter Edition)

• Eligible to serve on the Board of Directors

• Inclusion in “Listing of Members” on Website

• Consideration for front cover and feature article in “The EAST” magazine (Summer or Winter Edition)

• Invitation to all Networking Events, including Legislative Breakfast

• Co-sponsor of all Networking Events

• Eligible to serve on Board and Events Committees

GOLD LEVEL Benefits of Membership

• Recognition of Membership in “The EAST” Magazine (Summer & Winter Editions) • 33% discount on advertisement in “The East” Magazine • Listing in business directory of “The East” Magazine for the Winter Editions

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP $1,000 • Inclusion in “listing of Members” on Website • Invitation to all Networking Events, including Legislative Breakfast • Eligible to serve on Board and/or Events Committees

SILVER LEVEL (Organizations w/ 50 or more employees) Benefits of Membership

• Recognition of Membership in “The EAST” Magazine (Summer & Winter Editions) • 25% discount on advertisement in “The East” Magazine • Listing in business directory of “The East” Magazine for the Winter Editions

• Inclusion in “Listing of Members” on Website • Invitation to all Networking Events, including Legislative Breakfast • Eligible to serve on Board and/or Events Committees

BRONZE LEVEL (Organization w/ less than 50 employees) Benefits of Membership

• Recognition of Membership in “The EAST” Magazine (Summer & Winter Editions) • 25% discount on advertisement in “The East” Magazine • Listing in business directory of “The East” Magazine for the Winter Editions

FRIENDS LEVEL Benefits of Membership

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP $500

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP $250

• Inclusion in “Listing of Members” on Website • Invitation to all Networking Events, including Legislative Breakfast • Eligible to serve on Board and/or Events Committees

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP $100

• Listing in business directory of “The East” Magazine for the Winter Editions

• Invitation to all Networking Events, including Legislative Breakfast

• Inclusion in “Listing of Members” on Website

• Eligible to serve on Events Committees EastNolabdd.com

31

APPLY & UPDATE

BECOME A MEMBER, INVESTOR OR UPDATE YOUR BUSINESS LISTING WITH THE EAST NOLA BDD I WOULD LIKE TO: Update my Business Directory Listing Apply for an East NOLA BDD Membership

INFORMATION OF INTEREST: Annual membership investment: ___________ Platinum Business Sponsorship ($5,000+) Gold Level ($1,000) Silver Level ($500) Bronze Level ($250) Friends Level ($100)

Become an Investor in East NOLA BDD FORM OF PAYMENT: GENERAL INFORMATION

I am enclosing a check for $______

Company Name__________________________________________

made payable to East NOLA BDD

Address________________________________________________

PLEASE CHARGE MY

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Amex

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Discover Card

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E-Mail Address___________________________________________ Website________________________________________________

PLEASE SELECT A PAYMENT SCHEDULE OPTION: Payment in full

COMPANY REPRESENTATIVES:

Automatically charge my card on the ___ day of every month

Name 1________________________________________________

Automatically charge my card quarterly

Title 1__________________________________________________

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Name 2________________________________________________

Exp. Date_______________________________________________

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Name on Credit Card______________________________________

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Signature_______________________________________________

Email __________________________________________________ Mailing Address (if different from business listed above)

PLEASE SEND YOUR APPLICATION AND PAYMENT TO:

______________________________________________________

(check or credit card)

City, State, Zip ___________________________________________

East NOLA BDD

______________________________________________________

New Orleans, LA 70127

7240 Crowder Boulevard, Suite #301