Girl Scouts 'jazz' up Cookies & Cocktails gala

NEW ORLEANS — Smooth jazz and unique Girl Scout cookie-inspired dishes will fill the air for Girl Scouts Louisiana East’s “Cookies & Cocktails” gala set for Feb. 4, 2017, at club XLIV in New Orleans, according to the Girls Scouts news release.
Theme for this year’s gala, now in its third year, is “Cookies & Cocktails and All That Jazz” with a patron party at 6 p.m. and the gala from 7 to 10 p.m. All proceeds will go to fund ongoing programs for Girl Scouts throughout southeast Louisiana.
“Our event continues to grow and become more exciting with every year,” said Dr. Allison Augustus-Wallace, event co-chair, who is joined this year by Girl Scout supporter and alum, Fox news anchor Nancy Parker.
To spice up the night, 20 local chefs and bartenders will put a new spin on traditional Girl Scout cookie favorites. From savory appetizers to sweet desserts and full-flavored beverages, chefs and mixologists can use any of the eight varieties of Girl Scout cookies to create their one-of-a-kind treat. While patrons nibble on the chefs’ creations and enjoy unique cocktails, they’ll be treated to live music, capture memories in the photo booth, and bid in a silent auction.
“Funds raised from our event support our programs, thereby supporting our girls and the development of the leadership and social skills that they’ll need to make a positive impact in our communities as adults,” said Augustus-Wallace. “Several of our nation’s most accomplished women were Girl Scouts during their childhood. We plan to continue the tradition of promoting the development of girls into women of courage, confidence, and character.”
Guest judges will crown the Judge’s Choice champion while gala attendees will select the People’s Choice. Emcee is WGNO’s News with a Twist reporter Kenny Lopez. Guest judges include NFL analyst Mike Detillier, health educator Doc Griggs, food blogger Kristine Froeba of the Uptown Messenger and host of WWNO’s Out To Lunch Peter Ricchiuti. They will decide the best appetizer, best dessert and best cocktail.
Gala tickets are $75 per person, $100 for the gala and patron party, with an early bird gala purchase option of $50 per person if purchased by Dec. 1. Purchase tickets online at www.501auctions.com/cookiescocktails. Guests must be age 21 or older and cocktail attire suggested.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information please contact the Girl Scouts Fund Development office at 504-355-5885.