Some of New Orleans’ favorite chefs gathered at the Celebrity Chef Gift of Life Gala on April 17 at the Marriott Convention Center Hotel. Lead by honorary chef chair Andrea Apuzzo of Andrea’s Restaurant, 11 chefs put on a truly delightful dinner. Some of the dishes included lobster macaroni and cheese from Chef Mark Quitney of 5 Fifty 5; shrimp remoulade prepared by Chef Christi Gaudet of Galatoire’s Restaurant; and lamb chops with blackberry demi-glace from Chef Lou Sanders of Shula’s Steakhouse. Wines complimenting the dishes were also available.
In addition to the dinner, the night was topped off with music provided by the Tony Seville Trio and a silent auction featuring items such as vacation packages to Perdido Key and Italy. Guest included Julio Figueroa award-winner V.
Matti Vehaskari M.D. with wife Ginger, Angela Westbrook, Virginia Lea Waldrop, Patrick Van Hoorebeek, incoming president Myra Kleinpeter and current president Rebecca A. Sadler, Dr. and Mrs. Alan Robson, and committee members Alvin Mix, Samir S. El-Dahr M.D., Clinton Smith Jr., N. Kevin Krane M.D. and Michael D. Williams Sr.
The gala raised more than $30,000. All proceeds from the event benefit the National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana.
The foundation is dedicated to eliminating kidney and urological diseases by funding research, conducting education seminars and advocating for organ donation.
