MEET & GREET
Jean Lorent Makin: Style Maven
Jean Lorent Makin is ushering in a new age of style. Her designs are based on classic accessories but made uniquely contemporary with exotic leathers and exquisite patterns.
Emily Hines: Speaking for Cancer’s Youngest Victims
Finding your passion is a funny thing. Some people are born with it. Others find it later in life. Some struggle to find it at all. And then there are those whose passion is created out of struggle and adversity.
Diane Lundeen: Good in the Heart and Bad to the Bone
In a perfect world envisioned by local artist and entrepreneur Diane Lundeen, owner of full-service boutique pet store Petcetera NOLA on Magazine Street, there would be no homeless, abused or neglected animals in the New Orleans area and beyond.
William Terry: Soap Sense
As quite possibly the only Grammy Award-winning soap maker in the world, William Terry is clearly in a class of his own.
Meagan Miller: Faith and Fitness
As a brown belt in the mixed martial arts, Meagan Miller would have loved to proceed to black belt.
Making Connections; Sally Guidry, M.S., LBA, BCBA
At a time when dyslexia wasn’t widely understood, Sally Guidry’s sister struggled tremendously with school. Guidry accompanied her family to countless tutoring and behavioral psychology appointments and found herself intrigued by the process.
Nicoya Hogan: A Wing Thing
Nicoya Hogan and her husband have something of a wing habit.
Saving Lives: Sunyoung Kim, PhD
Scientist, professor, inventor, business owner, mother, world traveler, hero. Which name tag will Sunyoung Kim, PhD, wear today? Recently, the answer has been all of them.
Sterling Constant: A Familiar Face
If you’re at Antoine’s Restaurant in the French Quarter (and by the way, you need to go soon), ask to be seated at a table in waiter Sterling Constant’s section.
Christina Walsh: Hands-on Healthcare
It’s not a family reunion unless someone goes home injured.
Brik Allen: Sew Hot
As an 11th grader stacking American Eagle ripped jeans and utility shirts, Brik Allen had a vision.
Reagan Sidney: The Grass is Greener
One morning, eight years ago, Reagan Sidney woke up and decided it was the perfect day to completely change her life.
Michael Naquin: Excitement on Tap
Michael Naquin, founder and brewmaster at 40 Arpent Brewing Co., wouldn’t be surprised if he were the only hairdresser on the planet who switched careers to become a beer brewer.
Ben Kleban: Paving the Road to Success
Ben Kleban refuses to accept the premise that New Orleans public schools are struggling.
Wes McWhorter: Rouler Gets Rollin’
Wes McWhorter has done weird, creative stuff for the better part of his adult life. And it was on an epic bike ride from Nashville to New Orleans that he came up with his latest crazy idea.
Kristen Schenck: A Picture in Paint
The easel was covered in dust. For almost a decade, Kristen Catalano Schenck’s professional painter’s easel — a gift from her parents — sat stashed in the closet of her childhood bedroom, while she pursued other avenues in retail and as a professional trainer after graduation at the University of New Orleans.
Jenn Lormand: Getting to the Core
Beyond the spit-up, past the exhaustion, beneath the stretch marks and over the weight gain, there’s a quieter side to being a new mother that no one wants to talk about: pelvic floor dysfunction.
Michael Nelson: Exploring the Gulf’s Gastronomy
Growing up in a landlocked state like Illinois, Michael Nelson possessed an unusual taste for seafood.
Walking Proof: Brittany Grunberg
After a week in a coma, college freshman Brittany Grunberg woke up to find that bacterial meningitis had barely spared her life but that it had taken both of her legs below her knees. She wasn’t angry, but she was frustrated.
Big Shoes to Fill
Wes Palmisano takes the torch at Palmisano Contractors from his father Warren.
Titus Perkins: Inspiring Success
With a disabled grandmother as his only guardian, Titus Perkins was forced to become the leader of his household at a very young age. “I was cooking since I was 6 or 7, standing in a chair to reach the stove, while [my grandmother] was in her wheelchair,” Perkins says.
Nicholas Busciglio: Painting the Spirit of New Orleans
Born in Orange County, California, Nicholas Busciglio was blessed with a childhood of privilege. Dazzled by the allure of Hollywood, Busciglio first sought to enter the world of filmmaking and attended the prestigious private Christian college Chapman University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in film production.
Michael George Lizanich II: Steering Toward Success
Since appearing in a General Motors magazine as a toddler, Michael George Lizanich II has been an avid admirer of the automobile. “I’ve always been a car guy,” he says. “I’m only 21 years old, and I’m currently on car No. 20!”
Heidi Malnar
Catching the Rhythm – Growing up as an Army brat constantly on the move, Heidi Malnar discovered stability, passion and a love for movement when her parents first enrolled her in dance at the tender age of 3. Almost instantly she felt drawn to the rhythm and would seek out dance classes regardless of where […]
Clayton Shelvin: Staging Artists’ Opportunities
Le Petit Theatre has been a New Orleans institution for a century as of this month, but, with a fresh group of staff members, including associate producer and education director Clayton Shelvin, the theater is providing local talent with opportunities they can’t always find elsewhere.
Myla Poree: Small Businesses, Big Goals
The city of New Orleans is no stranger to the importance of small businesses. And one business-minded local has learned the power of serving small business owners’ needs to grow the community.
Daniel Victory: A Spirited Education
If any New Orleans local or visitor has wondered what craft cocktails are all about, they can head over to DrinkLab and its next-door neighbor Victory, both of which are owned by bartender, entrepreneur and craft cocktail connoisseur Daniel Victory.
Dr. Ashley Geoghegan: When Integration Is Key
As Eastern medicine becomes more commonplace in local healthcare, so too it has a place in veterinary medicine.
Holli Gaspard: Unleashing the Beauty Within
There’s nothing like adding a little beauty to the world, and, for nearly 30 years, the team at H2O Salon and Spa in Metairie has been committed to making customers look and feel their best — from the inside out.
Ariel Wilson: Empowering Female Youth
Supporting the future of young African American girls in the New Orleans area has become a passion project for Ariel Wilson, founder and president of The Orchid Society.
Heather Hays: Kids Will be Kids
New Orleans has absolutely perfect weather for outdoor activities … for about two weeks out of the year. The rest of the time, the weather is either too hot, too muggy or too wet for playgrounds.
Jessica Zanca: A Personal Trainer’s Personal Journey
Four years ago, Jessica Zanca had what she calls “an eye-opening experience” that started her on a path to physical and emotional transformation that would eventually put her on stage during bodybuilding competitions.
Madeline Spiers – Tour de Force
“We’re not perfect, but we’re in this together,” says Madeline Spiers, cheering on the students in her cycling class at Tour Cycle Studio. It’s a boutique cycling studio that she recently opened in the Warehouse District.
Ray Gumpert: A Passionate Palate
Like most experienced sommeliers, Ray Gumpert, wine director at Emeril’s New Orleans, is just as comfortable — and enthusiastic — talking about a rare, exclusive wine as he is about an affordable, everyday bottle.
Sean Josephs: Redefining Upscale Dining
Walking into Kenton’s Restaurant is almost like walking into someone’s home. The entryway has a casual elegance that is inviting and tasteful.
Adam Biderman: In Good Company
Adam Biderman, chef and owner of The Company Burger, has a culinary background that reads like a who’s who of Atlanta’s and New Orleans’ most influential chefs of the past decade.
Paul Rosenblum: Decades of Dedication
In 1982, when prominent New Orleans businessman Paul S. Rosenblum was invited by some peers to become involved with the board of Touro Infirmary, they told him that it was a rewarding experience.
Jimbo Geisler & Sandy Sharp: Sportsman’s Paradise
New Orleanians are fortunate to have a variety of leisure activities to fill weekends and holidays, and when one grows tired of food festivals, live music and ever-flowing cocktails, the tranquility of a slower-paced lifestyle is only a short drive away.
Aaron Golub: Setting His Sights on Greatness
On Saturday, Oct. 3, Tulane University sophomore Aaron Golub helped the Green Wave defeat the University of Central Florida 45 to 31.
Julie Silvers: Freeing the Female Form
When she was growing up, Julie Silvers never thought she could make a career out of her passion and knack for art, but, for the past 30 years, she has been doing just that.
Betsy and Jude Matthews: Minding Your P’s & Q’s
Ever since Betsy and Jude Matthews opened P’s & Q’s (a.k.a. Pies & Quiches) on Magazine Street in April 2013, life has been, well, pretty sweet!
Dr. Gary Menszer: In Rhythm
“What’s the point of living if you can’t have fun?” That’s a question that will probably ring true with many New Orleanians, but for Dr. Gary Menszer, vice chairman of the cardiology division at East Jefferson General Hospital, it’s not only the title of a song he wrote, it’s also a sort of mantra.
J. Steven Spires: A Storyteller in Our Midst
For so many people, last month’s 10-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina brought back difficult memories and a variety of emotions.
Genevieve Douglass: Finding Balance with Baby
When native New Orleanian Genevieve Douglass had her daughter in November 2013, she found herself facing the same issue that so many new mothers face — finding time for working out.
Dr. Robert Hancock: Looking Out for Man’s Best Friend
It’s not often that people are able to turn their passion into a career, but Dr. Robert Hancock, board-certified veterinary surgeon and director of South Paws Veterinary Specialists, is one of those fortunate few.
Shirley Herstein: Piano Woman
Shirley Herstein’s Steinway & Sons piano has been with her for more than six decades. From her childhood home in Philadelphia, it has traveled with her across the country as she followed her husband, Harvey, during a stint with the Navy, before settling in New Orleans, where it has survived — just barely — multiple […]
Koby Sackey: Connecting the Dots
There are apps available today to make us healthier, smarter, more organized, more informed and more connected. Whatever you need, you guessed it, there’s an app for that. And thanks to Koby Sackey and Dennis Bourn, now there is even an app to make us feel safer!
Old World Wines
Ric Hopper was “bitten by the wine bug” during a dinner party with his parents when he was a teenager. The bottle was a 1959 Domaine Comte de Vogue Musigny.
Healthy Eating in the Big Easy
Ask any nutritionist or fitness professional about the best way to lose weight and improve your overall health, and they’ll tell you that it’s 80 percent diet and 20 percent exercise.
Fighting with FIYA
“Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”
The Spice of Life: Lois Comeaux
“One bite of food with this dip will have you saying Wow Wee!” is just one of the many rave reviews customers have shared online, in print and in person about Wow Wee Dipping Sauce.
Family Core: Maggie Doussan
After having a baby, one of the biggest challenges a new mom faces is finding time for herself, and, even more so, time to exercise. That’s what makes Baby Boot Camp so unique — and so successful!
Nola TchoupBlock
Like so many great ventures, the idea for NOLA Tchoup Block was born from necessity.
Full Plates, Full Hearts
A West Bank restaurant teaches young people how to cook — and more.
Catering to the Community
Richard Buchsbaum serves New Orleans in more ways than one.
Bernhard’s Balance
A local architect creates symmetry and stability in his work and life.
Sky’s the Limit
This NOLA transplant shows kids that hoop dreams aren’t the only dreams.
Culinary Calling
Complete nutrition is always on the menu for personal chef Gwen Huffman.
After the Game Ends
Former NFL athlete Boo Williams champions care for retired players.
Stacy Neuburger: Radical Change
Armed with thorough research, and a strong support system, this cancer survivor found the courage to undergo a bilateral mastectomy.
Michelle Verdin: Renewed Perspective
This intensive care nurse sees every day as a gift.
Clayton Majeste: One Step Further
This Winn-Dixie store director feeds the city in more ways than one.
Alicia Thomas: Dedication and Determination
Alicia Thomas refused to let cancer disrupt her plans.
Performance, Participation and Preservation
Edward Anderson explores the new frontier of New Orleans music.
Mixing It Up
One of New Orleans’ favorite bartenders is making moves — and delicious drinks.
William N. Norton
William N. Norton, of counsel at Baker Donelson’s New Orleans office, concentrates his practice in the areas of corporate and business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and finance.
Keith LeBlanc
Keith LeBlanc is the co-founder and CEO of Metairie-based Millennium Healthcare Management, Inc.
Jim Henderson
Jim Henderson needs no introduction to local sports lovers or Saints fans around the globe.
Dennis Pearse
Dennis Pearse was born and raised in New Orleans. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology at Tulane University, later receiving his master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, La.
Frame by Frame
An optimistic entrepreneur sees the world through New Orleans-colored glasses. Stirling Barrett, founder of KREWE du optic, grew up in New Orleans and began his career in the art world early. “While I was in high school, I fell in love with art,” Barrett says. “It wasn’t my first introduction to the darkroom, but it […]
Secret Sauce
Meet the muse behind an iconic New Orleans recipe. You’re probably familiar with Crawfish Monica. Arguably the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival’s most famous dish, its creamy, spicy flavor has heralded spring in New Orleans for decades.
Colorful Calling
Terrance Osborne’s star is rising over Jazz Fest again this year. Artist Terrance Osborne painted 50 coconuts in preparation for his ride in this year’s Zulu parade. He knew the Mardi Gras Day parade crowd would be rowdy — but he wasn’t prepared for just how eager some parade-goers would be to get their hands on […]
Gifted and Grateful
A nonprofit founder empowers New Orleans youth. Growing up in Green Cove Springs, Fla., Kendal Francis’ supportive family kept him motivated. His father, a community leader, was a huge inspiration.
A Cut Above the Rest
Chopped champion chef Matt Murphy extends a warm Irish welcome.
From Parys, With Love
A healthy-eating specialist explains her devotion to good-for-you food.
Big Plans for a Small Space
Two Mississippi natives bring Latin cuisine to the Central Business District.
Meet + Greet: Gina Carbo-Perez
In the fall of 2011, Gina Carbo-Perez was going to Las Vegas. She and her husband, José, had booked the trip, planning to renew their vows. Everything was set.
Meet + Greet: Kim & Mike Sport
Good Sport: NOLA Native Stands Up For Breast Cancer Patients
NOL Meet + Greet: Tim Williamson
New Orleans native is rooting for the economic future of his hometown
Meet + Greet: Joe McMenemon & Brendan Finke
Tulane graduates organize the greeks with ChapterSpot.com
Meet + Greet: Tory McPhail
Growing up on his family’s eight-acre farm in Ferndale, Washington, Tory McPhail knew he wanted to be a chef even when he was only five years old.
Meet + Greet: Dr. Gene Parrino
Brings Ochsner to the forefront of cardiothoracic surgery
Meet + Greet : Chef Robert Bruce
Serves up true-to-roots Creole dishes at the Little Gem Saloon
Meet + Greet: Kelly Boffone
Cooking up delicious, gluten-free and vegan pastries at The Peacebaker
Nolan Rollins
Leader of the Urban League of Greater New Orleans shapes the city’s future
Kingsley House: Improving Quality of Life in the City for 100 Years
Benefit fund-raiser set for October 14
Access to Opportunity
Partnership for Youth Development works to extend success beyond the classroom
The St. Bernard Project
In February 2006, Washington, D.C., lawyer Zack Rosenburg and his partner Liz McCartney came to St. Bernard Parish to feed people. Five years later, they’re still here.
Chef John Besh Announces Chefs Move! Scholarship Winner
Chef John Besh offers a special opportunity for a special person
The Cultural Economy Gets A Boost
Louisiana’s creative economy is a $12 billion industry
Raise for the Cure
A pork cook-off called Hogs for the Cause helps children suffering from brain cancer
Food for Thought
The Emeril Lagasse Foundation supports nutritional programs for kids as well as NOCCA’s new culinary arts program
Rapid Recovery
The St. Thomas Community Health Center provide quality care (quickly) for local residents
Smoking Out the Truth
FATE reaches out to girls and explains why they should just say no to cigarettes
Young Visionaries
Kids Rethink New Orleans Schools challenges students to reimagine and help reform their educational environments
What Dreams Are Made Of
Zach Strief’s charitable foundation helps local children be all they can be
Young Samaritan
A 13-year-old’s bar mitzvah project raises money for those in need in St. Bernard
Shelter After the Storm
Dan and Jackie Silverman help women and children get off the street
Stemming the Tide
The Gulf Restoration Network aims to protect the natural resources that are central to the lives of Louisianans
The Fertile Crescent City
Helping locals grow good food is only part of the New Orleans Food and Farm Network’s mission
Best Foot Forward
Jewelry designer Thomas Mann steps up and gives back by joining forces with TOMS Shoes
The Cycle of Life
RUBARB teaches kids teamwork while helping them refurbish used bikes
Noble Cause
A high-profile executive keeps a low profile building houses through Project Home Again
A Class by Itself
By bringing artists into schools, KID smART keeps kids interested–and learning
Getting the Green Light
Through Consciously Rebuilding, residents learn the benefits of being eco-friendly
It Takes a Village
A Shared Initiative Inc. works with residents to rebuild the St. Claude corridor
A Beautiful Thing
For E. J. Encalarde, mentoring and empowering young girls is a calling
A Year to Remember
City Year changes the lives of its recruits and those they volunteer to help
Thinking About Tomorrow
Seedco Financial Services cultivates the future of New Orleans’ small businesses
That’ll Teach ’Em!
Operation REACH’s tutoring programs make academic success a reality
Sending an SOS
Anne Rheams and the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation saved the lake, now they aim to save our coast
Long Live Lakeview
Al Petrie, president of the Lakeview Civic Improvement Association, fights for his neighborhood
Going Global
Beth Galante quit practicing law to build energy-efficient homes in the Ninth Ward