The gracious lobby of the First NBC Bank provided a sophisticated atmosphere for this program which honored outstanding men in broadcast media for their combined long-standing community services: Bob Breck, Jim Henderson, Eric Paulsen, Norman Robinson, Curt Sprang and Dennis Woltering. Chris Rose was the Master of Ceremonies and added his unique touch of humor to his introduction of the honorees. The gala was hosted by Ashton J. Ryan Jr., President and CEO of the First NBC Bank and Childhood & Family Learning Foundation board member and co-founder.
The NOJI Student Ambassadors from the Irvin Mayfield School of Music for kids, led by Director Keith Hart, opened the evening with an array of New Orleans local jazz, closing with a raucous second line that brought the guests to their feet. A Touching selection of classical jazz music presented by New Orleans’ greats Ellis Marsalis Jr. and Irvin Mayfield Jr. playing in harmony lent an atmosphere of distinction and brought a standing ovation from the guests.
An array of perfumes, purses, hats, ties, floral arrangements, dinners and vacations attracted active bidding for the auction, but crowning the night’s success was a winning $1,000 bid for a Mary Soniat painting. Vice Chair Sammy Steele coordinated the auction.
Phyllis Landrieu, Foundation President and CEO and Event Chair, welcomed the guests and kept the program going with intermittent introductions and comments. Reverend Irvin L. Bell, Foundation Board Chair closed the evening with a brief overview of the Foundation’s work and by thanking sponsors, attendees and entertainers.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: Ellis Marsalis Jr. and Irvin Mayfield Jr. performance, benefiting the Childhood and Family Learning Foundation
When: Saturday, October 25
Where: First NBC Bank Lobby
