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Court Appointed Special Advocates (aka CASA New Orleans) is a nonprofit that trains diligent, committed citizens to stand up for abused and neglected children. Volunteers with the organization advocate for the best interesst of foster children under jurisdiction of Orleans Parish Juvenile Court. The nonprofit seeks to break the cycle of child abuse and has made great strides since its inception in 1987. On Thursday, November 11, at the Riverview Room in Jackson Brewery, CASA New Orleans hosted its fifth annual cooking demonstration and fundraiser, What’s Cookin’ with CASA?, featuring renowned chef Susan Spicer of Bayona and Mondo restaurants. New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Zach Strief and his wife, Mandy, served as honorary co-chairs of the event. (Strief also produced a cookbook in 2009 for charity titled When You’re the Biggest Guy on the Team.) The party featured entertainment by Gina Brown & Anutha Level, plus a silent auction and a golf-putting competition. Guests enjoyed cuisine from Bayona, Cochon, Dorignac’s, Herbsaint, Maurice French Pastry, the Royal Cakery and the Windsor Court Hotel.
