Etc.

1762
Year the world’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held: March 17, in New York City. 284
Miles between New Orleans and Shamrock, La. (Approx.)

8-14
Lifespan, in years, of a healthy bunny. 1857
Year Dr. Elizabeth Cohen, the first woman to practice medicine in Louisiana, arrived in New Orleans.

10/06/07-2/29/08
Dates of the most recent rabbit-hunting season in Louisiana.

36,000,000
Number of U.S. residents who claim Irish ancestry.
(Almost nine times the total population of Ireland.)

ART

Amazing art and fancy furnishings
Etc.
“Dealers and decorators rely on us to provide them with a wide range of interesting items that they can buy for resale,” says Tessa Steinkamp, vice president of New Orleans Auction St. Charles Gallery. The business, which began in 1991, specializes in fine 19th and 20th century American, English and French furnishings, including furniture, fine art, porcelain, silver, chandeliers, jewelry and Oriental carpets. St. Charles Auction Gallery also places a great emphasis on its sale of Southern art and 19th century American furniture for its local clientele.

Owned by Jean R. Vidos, the gallery “tends to be quite diverse,” explains Steinkamp,“We cater to collectors of all levels, from the beginner to the seasoned connoisseur and everyone in between.” She adds that “the auction industry is truly a unique form of retail.”

 Every Wednesday, the gallery hosts preview parties before each sale, from 5-8 p.m. featuring The Society Brass Band, cocktails and hors d’ouvres. “Everyone is invited to preview and attend,” says Steinkamp. “Look around and ask questions. Many people start out a little bit intimidated if they’ve never been to an auction before but we walk them through and show them how simple and fun it can be.”

This month is the consignment period for the April 12 and 13 auction. The business will be accepting consignments and looking at estates through March 14.

Information, 1330 St. Charles Ave., 586-8733, www.liveauctioneers.com and www.stcharlesgallery.com. 
SHOPPING Escaping stress at Bamboo Apothecary
Etc.
Like the New Orleans Hornets, Bamboo Apothecary started in Charlotte, N.C. but has now found its niche in the Crescent City. Jill Painter, who hails from a long line of entrepreneurs, opened her store seeking to combine creativity with her sales and management skills. In March 2006, she launched Bamboo Apothecary, which sells a wide variety of high-end beauty products and offers spa services.

Her products, she says, come from all over the world. Natura Bisse, the spa’s primary skincare line, is imported from Barcelona. “It’s exclusive to our spa in the New Orleans area,” says Painter, “which makes our facials one-of-a-kind.” In addition, she says, “all of our service providers are highly trained and provide excellent services. Our saleswomen are very knowledgeable about the products and help clients choose the right ones.”

Bamboo Apothecary, complete with bamboo floors with white shelves and countertops, has a clean, organized look, “similar to an apothecary,” says Painter. “We offer a relaxing atmosphere where clients can come to escape all the stresses of everyday life.” 

Other brands found at Bamboo Apothecary include Laura Mercier, Molton Brown, The Art of Shaving and Tarte makeup. Painter says that recently the spa has started a spay tanning service that leaves clients with a healthy, natural-looking tan. “Our clients come to us to ensure they are receiving the best products with the best results,” she says.

Information, 4112 Magazine St., 895-1664.

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