Those who wish to spend “A Night in Old Havana” need go no further than the “Sentimental Journeys” this October 24 and 25. Besides transporting guests through time and international embargos, the fundraiser serves as a benefit for the Longue Vue House and Gardens, which in turn is dedicated to helping New Orleans recover – proceeds from the event will help restore Pontchartrain Park.
Co-chairs Helen Butcher, Denise Monteleone and Dathel Coleman, pictured here with Nelson Valentin on behalf of the Cigar Factory of New Orleans, will help make sure that this year’s event is unlike any you’ve attended and better than ever! Havana will rise right here in New Orleans thanks to architect Campion Platt and floral designer Paul Norman, both of whom are volunteering their time and effort.
The exotic scenario of this year’s fundraiser will no doubt tickle partygoers’ feet. Fortunately, the fundraiser revolves around an auction of 30 exotic trips and vacations.
The fundraiser takes place in two installments. The first night, October 24, there will be a patron party at the home of Pixie and Jimmie Reiss. The next night, October 25, there will be a dinner followed by the auction held at the Riverview Ballroom at Kern Studios Entertainment Center. Each course of the dinner will feature gourmet wine pairings – artisan cigars hand rolled on the premises will
complete the ambiance.
Photographed by Greg Miles
Special thanks to Franco Valobra, the Cigar Factory of New Orleans and the irreplaceable Rebecca Schultz.
Correction: In September 2008 issue’s “North of the Lake”, we mistakenly
identified the JL Foundation. Founded by Bob and Janet Leslie in memory of their daughter Jennifer, the JL Foundation strives to alleviate the monetary strain on families dealing with leukemia and allows families to concentrate on recovery. We sincerely regret the error and encourage everyone to visit www.jlfoundation.org.
