Forty lucky guests, including Alan Alario, Brian Landry and Senator Joel Chaisson, gathered on September 26 for Le Coeur d’Orleans dining event. The event featured a sumptuous buffet prepared by the executive chef of the Windsor Court Hotel.
To set the tone, Kirk Branch played the piano for the event, and guests dined on a bevy of passed hors d’oeuvres such as Sesame Crusted Ahi Medallion on Crispy Won Ton Crackers, Crabmeat Cheescake with Rum Sauce, and Goat Cheese and Sundried Tomato Tapenade Spread on Olive Bread.
The feast continued with Lobster Tortellini with Fennel Essence. Diners chose next between Vidalia Onion Encrusted Filet Mignon with Madeira Demi Glace and Venison Loin with Morel Sauce, both of which were accompanied by Truffle Potato Terrine and Grilled Vegetables.
This year’s black tie affair raised $15,000 for the benefit of St. Michael’s Special School and the Children’s Hospital Caps for Kids program. Uniquely, guests attending Le Coeur d’Orleans had the opportunity to delegate the recipient of 10 percent of funds raised.
“Our guests selected by vote St. Michael’s Special School as our primary
recipient for the years 2009-’10. Ten percent of the funds for those years will go
to Children’s Hospital,” says Jack Tittle, who chaired the event with Cissy Tittle (the pair co-founded the event in 1995).
“Le Coeur only asks for our guests to pay the cost of the meal. We have no raffles or auctions. We want our guests to enjoy a lovely evening without having to feel obligated to spend any money for the charity,” Jack says. 
Nancy Plough, Toni Feinman and Anna Morgan
