Photos and Story by Debbie Glover

In the only sanctioned Oscar party in Louisiana, the American Red Cross enjoyed a night of the red carpet complete with local celebrities, make-up artists, a live auction and of course, Oscar on a big screen as the centerpiece of the night’s activities at the Tchefuncta Country Club.

Greeting guests on the red carpet which led into the ballroom was “Joan River” aka Dawn Streeck. Event chair Willie Paretti also greeted guests with a glass of the bubbly.

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Included in the festivities were a “Pick the winners contest” with attendees selecting Oscar winners. The ballot with the most correct selections won an official Oscar poster autographed by the show’s producers; an official program from the Governor’s Ball and two tickets to next year’s benefit event.

Three other contests also took place: supporting actress, winning six tickets to Hollywood Theatre and a cut and style from Isis Salon; select the original song, receiving a facial from Isis Salon and the soundtrack from “Crazy Heart” and “Princess and the Frog;” and best picture selector won DVDs of three movies, three from movie rentals and 3 free popcorn tubs donated by Friendly Video.

The auction items included a set of Bevolo gas lanterns; a George Rodrigue print commissioned after Hurricane Katrina to benefit the American Red Cross entitled, “We Will Rise Again;” a fleur de lis championship package commemorating the Saints Super Bowl win donated by Lee Michels; and a dinner for 12 catered by Chef Don Phillips at the Champagne Antique Museum.

Besides a buffet, popcorn tubs were the centerpiece on the tables, adding to the movie theme. An Oscar cake from Zoe’s, complete with Oscar himself, a red carpet and a clapboard completed the evening’s festivities.

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