It was billed as the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Black & Gold Gala, but for insiders, the event is informally known as the “Party on the Turf,” as it takes place at the Ochsner Performance Center, home of the New Orleans Saints indoor training facility.
The turf proved up to the task as it set the stage for the Lombardi Trophy, which was on hand for guests to take photos with. For those who don’t know, the Saints won the Super Bowl in 2010, beating the Indianapolis Colts, 31-17.
More party attractions included the LED performance artists, stilt walkers and a gold-clad “Mirror Man,” as well as The Storyville Jazz Band followed by After Party as the dance band. Pigeon Caterers provided food.
Guests could also try their luck at blackjack, roulette, slot machines and poker with credits won that could be used for entry into raffles for trips, wine and more.
Another game of chance, so to speak, was the auction in which the top-selling items were a Hunt Slonem “White Bunny” painting, Saints autographed merchandise and a trip to a Saints away game of the winner’s choice.
Among the “who’s who” at the event on March 31 were Jefferson Parish Councilman-At-Large Scott Walker, Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto, Councilman-At-Large Ricky Templet and District 4 Councilman Dominic Impastato. Ruth Lawson is the Jefferson Chamber president.
Fun Fact
The event is the only public fundraiser at the Saints indoor facility.
Christy Templet, Ricky Templet, Dr. Sarintha Stricklin
Logan Coulon, Victoria Coulon, Lauren Lopinto, Sheriff Joe Lopinto
Ruth Lawson, Al Galindo
Shaun Sylvas, Kimberly Green, Terron Harang
Todd Murphy, Jamie Giorgio Palmer, Dr. Kellie Giorgio Carnelford, Melanie Cannatella, Lee Giorgio
