On Thursday, March 27, 2014, New Orleans witnessed “A Renaissance in Treme.” This culturally significant neighborhood was the focus of this aptly titled fundraiser benefitting The New Orleans African American Museum of Art, Culture and History. The event was held at the Basin Street Station and was a huge success.
Guests were greeted as they entered the building outside by the drumming expertise of Luther Gray of Bamboula 2000. The progressive party started in the Atrium of the venue that was once the New Orleans Terminal Company/Southern Railway Freight Office Building. Khari Allen Lee and the New Creative Collective played downstairs while people enjoyed passed appetizers and mingled with characters provided by Living History. Jules Lion, renowned African American photographer from the 1800’s, and Lt. Governor C.C. Antoine, who was the third of three African American Republicans who was elected and served as Lt. Governor of the State of Louisiana, regaled attendees with their interesting and important roles in the city’s history.
After the first part of the evening, guests made their way to the 4th Floor for food, honorees recognition and more music. The view from the balcony of the venue overlooking the French Quarter and Treme areas was spectacular. The entire evening was a lovely affair as Leah Chase, Alden J. McDonald, Martin Payton, Ashton Ryan and David Simon were honored. The cuisine was provided by several local hotels, catering companies and soul food restaurants that included Palate Catering, Ms. Linda’s Soul Food, Rainey’s Soul Food, Lady Marmalade Soul, JW Marriott, Royal Cakery, Bellegarde Bakery, George’s Produce and Zach’s Fine Food.
Closing out the evening was an amazing performance by Grammy Award Winning Artists PJ Morton, who also plays keyboard for Maroon 5. For more information on The New Orleans African American Museum of Art, Culture and History, go to www.noaam.org.