More than 200 guests joined Alice and the Mad Hatter in the Wonderland of Sidney and Norwood Thornton’s residence on Thursday, November 8, for “Down the Rabbit Hole,” the third rendering of “STAIR Affair: Black and White and Read All Over.”
The worlds of New Orleans and Wonderland collided at the event, as signs proclaiming, “eat me!” labeled classic Creole favorites courtesy of Jacque-Imo’s and Crabby Jack’s. Open bar cocktail stations sponsored by Barefoot Wine and Bubbly, Republic National Distributing Co. and Southern Eagle Sales & Service were marked with “drink me!” The Lars Edegran Jazz Trio provided entertainment for the night.
An auction was another highlight of the event, with a Wellington & Co. gift certificate, Hyatt French Quarter “staycation” accommodations and a blissful Amelia Island, Fla., weekend getaway all up for grabs.
Co-chairs Jonnie Honse and Sara Hudson spearheaded what will soon be an annual function, and First Lady Cheryl Landrieu and Ruby Bridges were on hand as honorary co-chairs of the event.
STAIR, short for Start the Adventure in Reading, provides tutoring in reading to second grade students in New Orleans public schools. The nonprofit organization’s squadron of volunteer tutors has aided more than 6,000 students since 1985.
Event at a Glance
WHAT
“Down the Rabbit Hole,” 2012 “STAIR Affair: Black and White and Read All Over,” benefiting Start the Adventure in Reading
WHEN
Thursday, November 8
WHERE
Home of Sidney and Norwood Thornton