I assume that you’re reading this either during the throes of Carnvial or soon after, so to you I say: Congratulations on surviving! Now is the time to truly get started on your year.
While most of the world makes and strives to keep resolutions starting January 1 through an entire year, we in New Orleans tend to set those aside for the run of Mardi Gras. For instance, how can you cut out sugar when there are King Cakes to be eaten? How to choose to have a dry January when there’s another champagne toast to a mighty King or beautiful Queen? How to commit to a workout routine when there are parades to attend, traffic to get around and mornings just made for sleeping in?
So, I say that you should give yourself a break until at least February 10. But if you can’t, then don’t beat yourself up for having a slice of King Cake here or there but don’t eat the whole thing; have a glass of champagne for the toast and then switch to sparkling water; look at your horrid parking spot as a way to get some quick strides in on the way to the parade; and choose to boogie a little more than usual at the ball.
Friends of City Park’s “Lark in the Park” also happens very early in the month, in this case March 4, so we’re featuring Co-Chairs Kuffa Jones and Emily Ostuw Shaya; Karen DeBlieux, President of the New Orleans Market for Premiere Sponsor Capital One Bank; Morgan Lee, Marketing and Advertising Director at Sponsor Bryan Subaru; and Board Member Leigh Thorpe on our cover. This year’s gala will be raising funds to benefit the expansion of the conservatory in the beautiful New Orleans Botanical Garden, and will include an auction, raffles, live entertainment, full bars and cuisine from over 40 local restaurants. Call 483-9369 to find out more and to purchase tickets.
The other holiday this month is Valentine’s Day, and we’ve got that covered, too! From what to buy for yourself or that special someone, see What’s Hot. For where to eat if you’re celebrating – or hiding – look to "She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not." And, for those celebrating an engagement, our annual Couture Wedding Guide will get you started with tips from more than 20 local experts.
Enjoy the beginnings of spring and wait until you see what we have for you next month!
Morgan Packard
February Events
7
“Mardi Gras Fête: Baby Got Bacchus,”
benefiting the Junior Committee of the New Orleans Opera Association, 899-1945
20
“Cookies & Cocktails,”
benefiting Girl Scout Louisiana East, 355-5885, gsle.com
21
“2016 Good Apple Gala,”
benefiting Louisiana Appleseed, 561-7304
22
Seventh annual “Recycled Fashion Show,”
benefiting Bridge House/Grace House, 821-7288
25
“Go Red for Women Luncheon,”
benefiting the American Heart Association, 830-2300
26
“Dancing With Degas,”
benefiting the New Orleans Ballet Theatre, NOBT.org
26
“Cocktails Against Crime,”
benefiting Millenial Spirits of NOLA, CocktailsAgainstCrime.eventbrite.com
31
“King Cake Festival,”
benefiting Ochsner Clinic Foundation, 842-7113
