This year’s “Red Tie Affair” on Friday, March 6, which took place on The Riverboat Louis Armstrong, welcomed more than 600 patrons to raise funds for the lifesaving work happening at the John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute (JOHVI). The program was presented by Gallagher, Chaired by Gina Khatib and emceed by retired news anchor Norman Robinson. Walda and Sydney Besthoff served as Honorary Chairs. System Chairman of Cardiovascular Diseases of Ochsner Health and JOHVI Director Dr. Christopher White and Ochsner Health President and CEO Warner Thomas presented the annual John L. Ochsner Heart and Vascular Award of Excellence to Hector Ventura, MD, FACC, FACP, section head for advanced heart failure and heart transplant at JOHVI. Dr. Ventura dazzled guests with his rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Thomas presented remarks about the current and future plans for JOHVI.
The program also recognized the 1000th heart transplant patient, Devine King. The cocktail reception and after party space were decorated with red, gold, and white furniture and draping by Mardi Gras Productions and Element. The dining room tables were appointed with red and white specialty linens and accented with centerpieces by Fancy Faces.
At the cocktail reception, guests enjoyed music by the South Louisiana Virtuoso while dining on passed hors d’oeuvres and libations, including a Kir Royale specialty cocktail. Dinner by Ralph Brennan’s Catering included a spring salad, bronzed redfish and a chocolate torte. The after party featured cheeseburger sliders, a Nitro ice cream bar, a coffee bar and red velvet martinis. Guests danced the night away to the sounds of Bobby J and Stuff Like That. Friend & Company Jewelers, represented by Ken Friend, was recognized for donating an Edwardian ruby and diamond ring valued at $7,500. Guests were also delighted to take a spin of the roulette wheel to win rare and valuable wine. Proceeds go toward supporting the lifesaving work happening every day at JOHVI. Additional sponsors included Stirling Properties for contributing décor, Comm Care Corporation as revenue enhancers, Steve and Kathy Nathanson for the invitations and valet sponsors, Marsh USA contributing a VIP Lounge, Bill Bloecher for heart pillows and Edwards LifeSciences for the Mission Moment.
➺ Event at a Glance
What: “2020 Red Tie Affair,” benefiting the John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute
When: Friday, March 6
Where: The Riverboat Louis Armstrong (docked behind Mardi Gras World)
Presenting Sponsor representative Anderson Baker with Chair Gina and Dr. Sammy Khatib
Ochsner Health CMO Dr. Robert Hart, 1000th heart transplant patient Devine King and Honoree Dr. Hector Ventura
Honorary Chairs Sydney and Walda Besthoff with Ken Friend
OHVI Director Dr. Christopher White, Rene Doucet, Ochsner Health President and CEO Warner Thomas and Sis Ochsner Mann
Billy and Lulu Freiberg with COO Mike Hulefeld
