The Urban Conservancy celebrated its 10th anniversary with their “You Are Here” annual fundraiser on October 22. The evening consisted of live music, delectable fare and both live and silent auctions at the Icehouse, where a timeline display traced the impact and growth of the organization through the years. With a mission to “promote wise stewardship and equitable access to our city’s and our region’s economic, environmental and cultural assets,” the UC encourages locals to embrace and preserve the historically unique urban fabric of New Orleans.
Partygoers, numbered at approximately 180, enjoyed champagne provided by Pal’s Lounge and Abita brews along with mouthwatering appetizers and cuisines including Thai wraps from The Milk Bar, Jambalaya from Liberty’s Kitchen, cheeses from St. James Cheese Company and more. Danny Blackburn took on the role of auctioneer for the evening, auctioning items such as Voodoo Fest passes and a “Night Out” basket complete with tickets to see Red at Southern Rep and a certificate to Lilette Restaurant.
Special guests honored at the celebration included organization co-founders Geoff Coats and Edward Melendez, who were presented with keychain medals and a bicycle rack, and Jennifer Ruley, who received the 2011 Urban Hero Award for her work promoting a safe cycling infrastructure in the community.
