Bridge House/Grace House hosted its 18th annual “Women of Substance Luncheon” and silent auction at the Audubon Tea Room in May to honor three outstanding women who are renowned leaders in the community as well as recognize other exceptional supporters of Bridge House/Grace House.
The three Women of Substance awards were bestowed upon: Charmaine Neville, who, along with her band, has been committed to performing charity concerts and special appearances despite her worldwide fame and busy schedule; Jan Ramsey, founder of OffBeat magazine, who has served as a longtime friend of the music and arts of New Orleans and is dedicated to safeguarding and developing the city’s rich culture; and Mary von Kurnatowski, a successful artist, businesswoman and proud mother who ardently supports such organizations as the Tipitina’s Foundation, of which she’s the founder, Dress for Success and the American Heart Association.
Andree Batt, Denise Thornton and Carey Yacoubian co-chaired the event’s silent auction, which boasted fabulous lots to the guests’ delight, such as an hors d’oeuvres reception for 125 provided by Emeril’s at the Soren Christensen Art Gallery and an original piece by artist Lynette Collins Walker. Bridge House/Grace House also raffled a Harley Davidson motorcycle to one lucky guest.
In a special performance, Charmaine Neville opened the event by singing “Amazing Grace,” which was an unforgettable highlight of the evening. For the luncheon itself, attendees dined on a gourmet meal featuring potato and leek vichyssoise for starters, Louisiana Gulf shrimp in a tasso cream sauce over grits and, for dessert, crème caramel with fresh berries.
Event at a Glance
What: “Women of Substance Luncheon,” benefiting Bridge House/Grace House
When: Friday, May 10
Where: Audubon Tea Room
