To celebrate the commencement of the 2009 Junior League of New Orleans Kitchen tour, a swanky patron party was held at the acclaimed Emeril’s Delmonico.  Festivities began early on the eve of April 2, where supporters, Junior League members and Kitchen Tour homeowners enjoyed perfectly crafted mojitos in a variety of fruity blends. Other highlights of the party included fabulous food, a silent auction and a chef recipe demonstration. Auction items included upscale clothing and a spa package. Hors d’oeuvres featured crawfish fritters, Southwestern-themed tasting, antipasti offerings and a slew of desserts. The fête kicked off the Saturday, April 4 Kitchen tour, featuring 11 homes in Faubourg St. John and Audubon Park neighborhoods. Major sponsors for the event and the tour were Cabinets by Design, New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles, Emeril’s Delmonico and Bacardi. Kitchen Tour chairs Tricia King, Malise Kearney and Amber Beezley were in attendance, along with JLNO President Leah Engelhardt and President-Elect Erin Luetkemeier. Proceeds from the patron party and Kitchen Tour benefit their volunteer-supported community projects, grants and various outlets for children’s education.