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More than 400 guests celebrated the grand opening of the National World War II Museum’s newest expansion, the Kushner Restoration Pavilion, at the “2011 IberiaBank Victory Ball.” The pavilion offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the restoration process of priceless artifacts, including the museum’s PT- 305 boat.
During the ball chaired by Michael Bylen, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Canizaro and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Levy, guests enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by chef John Besh. World War II veteran Harry Connick Sr. was named the 2011 Silver Service Medallion Honoree during the elegant program. Guests also had the opportunity to win special raffle prizes including a 2011-’12 floor seat experience package donated by the New Orleans Hornets, a beautiful women’s diamond and pearl bracelet donated by Valobra Jewelry and Antiques and a week-long vacation to a private resort in Manzanillo, Mexico, for up to five couples. Connick Sr. delighted the crowds with a live performance, which ended the night.
Later in the evening, the second annual Otto Candies’ “How Sweet It Is!” dessert and dance party kicked off with a bang. Guests enjoyed sweet treats in the Museum’s Stage Door Canteen and danced to the tunes of the Bucktown All-Stars. Proceeds from the event support the Museum’s local and national educational outreach about the “greatest generation.”