Rebuilding Lives for Men and Women with Dignity, Honor & Respect

Vol. 29 No. 3 A News Publication of Bridge House / Grace House Fall 2013 Holistic Health: Bridge House An expansion of our services for the women of Grace House in partnership with Tulane School of Medicine gave me the break I needed Else Pedersen CEO leaves the remaining 80% identified as from a Bridge House alumnus For many years we have uninsured. This consider- spoken of the holistic health ably narrows the options for My name is Jeff, and I am an alco- approach that we provide for health care treatment. As a holic. I have been sober, in recovery, our residents. Bridge House result, the wait time for spe- since May 6, 2010, the day I checked / Grace House addresses the cialized female healthcare into the substance abuse treatment physical, psychological and can be very long. These are program at Bridge House. spiritual needs of those who women that have already That admission has not always been seek services through us. experienced a lot of stigma easy for me to make, even when I Our treatment approaches as a marginalized popula- knew it to be true. In my mind I was support these pillars of holis- tion due to their addictive not the ‘stereotypical’ alcoholic: I was tic health, and for the ser- disorder. Coupled with a law school graduate with a promis- vices that we cannot provide Else Pedersen all of these barriers is the ing future who had just had a string in-house, we traditionally re- undeniable fear of what the of bad luck, a young kid just making fer to resources that may be lifestyle of addiction may up for a mild college career by drink- available in the community. have amplified in the areas ing and sometimes carrying it a little We have come to realize that in the of female health. The unpleasant truth too far, who thought the drinking was specific area of women’s health needs is that through intravenous drug use, something I could always turn off when we need and want to do a better job. sex for money or unprotected sex, this the time called for it. Problem was that You may not be aware, but upon enter- population is at an exponentially higher time never came. risk for sexually transmitted infections ing treatment only about 20% of our The night before taking the Louisi- and other issues exclusive to females residents qualify for Medicaid. This ana Bar Exam, I was arrested for my that are related to the lifestyle from second DWI. While sitting in jail, I which they are desperately May 1-July 31, 2013 concocted various ridiculous scenarios By The Numbers trying to separate themselves. in my head how it would be ok. Some- With the realization of this clinic Calls for Help: 2,441 how I managed to get released and we can provide these women passed the exam, but I still could not with their absolute best chance Daily Capacity: 212 focus on living a productive life. at sustained recovery. The lack These numbers reflect the over- of services translates into a I floundered along for another year whelming demand for our substance lack of “caring” that in turn fuels or so managing to get by until one abuse treatment services the feelings of worthlessness of my best friends sat down with me and defeat that often lead to and forced me to take a look at the For treatment call 504-821-7120 relapse. We are aware that by problems in my life: I was unable

HEALTH continued on p. 2 BREAK continued on p. 10 02 Bridge House / Grace House Client Centered Treatment HEALTH continued from p. 1 addressing this issue we are extending Executive Director of Clinical Ser- to demystify the treatment process. A even greater hope for better opportunities vices Bridge House / Grace House great deal of information is shared in a in a life of sobriety. Bridge House / Grace House strives to manner that is understandable with the uphold the highest clinical standards client during the orientation process. By locating a clinic at the Camp Street and best practices This is designed to empower the client location there will be a natural collabora- in our residen- to achieve maximum benefit tion between the clinical team and the tial substance from the services provided. counseling team. The two teams will abuse treatment Client rights and responsi- assure the resident of a reasonable and programs. We bilities, the client grievance clinically appropriate approach to any take pride in a process, how to provide in- problems identified. Health education will person centered put to Bridge House / Grace also be provided to boost continued self- approach to care House, the confidentiality awareness and healthy choices. where the client is policy, program rules, how We have partnered with the Tulane actively involved the treatment plan is devel- School of Medicine to make this clinic a in their treat- oped, services provided, and reality. This presents a unique education- ment process. All discharge / transition criteria al opportunity to these medical students Michelle Gaiennie clients are treated are some of the many topics as well. The students will become in- with dignity, honor covered in the client orienta- formed of the health problems surround- and respect in a very comfortable tion during the first week of treatment. ing addictive disorders. Often, symptoms therapeutic environment. The men The Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and signs of addictive disorders are receive treatment in our state of the is administered to all clients by their neglected in medical education. art treatment facility at 4150 Earhart counselor during their first week of The community at large benefits when Boulevard. The women’s treatment lo- treatment. The ASI is designed to people with addictive disorders receive cations are at the historic Grace House address seven potential problem meaningful treatment. Grace house resi- at 1401 Delachaise Street and at 1160 areas in clients with substance abuse dents will gain the knowledge and tools to Camp Street. We want the clients to problems: medical status, employment make better decisions around their sexual feel that Bridge House or Grace House and support, drug use, alcohol use, health post-treatment. Their informed is their home while they are receiving legal status, family/social status and decisions can stem the alarming prolifera- treatment services and living at one of psychiatric status. The ASI provides tion of sexually transmitted infections in our facilities. an overview of problems related to our community. Their sustained recovery The treatment process begins in our substance abuse rather than focusing also correlates to the reduction of crime, intake department where individuals on one single area. the rebuilding of families and a decrease come for screening and assessment The information gained from the ASI is in the number of homeless individuals in prior to admission to Bridge House or used in the development of the client’s our community. Women in recovery are Grace House. We recognize that this individualized treatment plan which is better suited to find employment, support is a very frightening time for clients also developed during the first week themselves and reunite with their families and we do everything we can to make of treatment through an interactive and children. it welcoming. Most people have a fear process with the counselor and the cli- For more information as well as how to of the unknown and there are many ent. A client identifies the issues he or support our efforts, please continue with unknowns coming into treatment. We she would like to address in treatment the article Making the Grace House Clinic have a structured orientation process with their counselor and they develop a Reality on page 3. that begins at admission with our realistic goals and objectives. The Thank you for your ongoing support of intake counselors and continues with treatment plan is updated throughout Bridge House / Grace House. the client’s personal counselor that treatment and all clients receive a copy they are assigned on their first day in of their treatment plan. Else Pedersen MBA, LAC treatment. The client orientation serves Two other key documents are the [email protected] 504.821.7122 CLIENT continued on p. 7 03 Bridge House / Grace House Making the Grace House Clinic a Reality From the Marketing Department needs of women in recovery. So we an abusive partner or raise a family. I Last year we told you about the birth of are creating a female-friendly women’s had a network of support from family our dream of the Grace House Wom- clinic at the Grace House location on and friends. And at the end of it all, I en’s Clinic that came in response to Camp Street. was lucky enough to have normal test dramatic unmet health We are partnering results. needs of our female with Tulane Medi- But I must be honest when I say that residents. Since then, cal School to build those immensely fortunate circum- we have been working a one-stop shop for stances do not alleviate the shame to make our dream comprehensive treat- that I felt, and to some degree still become a reality. We ment, education, and feel, as a result of that humiliating first are grateful to have prevention. By work- experience. secured investments ing with Tulane Medi- I want to help create this clinic to keep from three different cal Students, we also other women from having that experi- local foundations to hope to create a class ence. As it is, women in treatment face Kevin Gardere & Anne Springer begin construction on of students who are enough judgment, guilt, and self-hate the clinic. However, well-informed about on their paths to recovery. It’s my our work is not complete. addiction. hope that with this clinic, residents of In order to offer a full spectrum of Since starting work on this project, a Grace House can get easy access to services to our female residents, we more personal memory has arisen for treatment, education, and preventa- have amassed a small group of dedi- me that I’d like to risk embarrassment tive care that won’t add burdens to the cated volunteers from our community to share with you. I was 19 years old heavy loads that they already carry. and charged them with raising the when I scheduled my first appointment I truly appreciate your time and atten- remaining monies. We are thankful to with an ob-gyn. I was a sensitive, un- tion, and I thank you from my heart have committee members that include assuming college student who thought for considering donating to this worthy Tulane Medical and Public Health Stu- she was doing what was right for cause. dents, business women and doctors. her health and future. Unfortunately, With diverse backgrounds, they are the experience was nothing short of With committee members as pas- united under a clear purpose: to create traumatic. sionate as this one, we are confident we will reach our goal of $100,000 by accessible medical care in a support- During the examination the doctor October 15, 2013, but we need your ive environment for women who are told me that this part of his job reviled help to do so. Please consider mak- working to rebuild their lives. We are him most. He asked me twice if I was ing a donation to the Grace House gratified by their passion for our cause married. He reluctantly prescribed Women’s Clinic today. You can mail and their dedication to improving the birth control after lecturing me about a donation c/o the Women’s Clinic or lives of women in our community. One the immorality of sex before marriage. make a donation online by going to of our committee members shares her This experience was damaging and www.bridgehouse.org. Thank you for very personal reason for dedicating confusing. her time to this mission: your support. I cried fat tears of guilt for two days My dear friends, straight. It would be six years before I Kevin Gardere This letter is personal and thus slightly had the courage to return to another Marketing Director uncomfortable to write, but it involves ob-gyn. [email protected] a matter that is very important to me. But I am a middle-class woman of 504.821.7133 Bridge House / Grace House is pres- privilege. At the time, I was covered Anne Springer ently equipped with a clinic providing by my parents’ health insurance and Associate Marketing Director health services at the men’s facility I didn’t have to come up with the co- [email protected] (Bridge House on Earhart), but it is pay. I was not dependent on drugs 504.821.7134 unable to provide for the unique health or alcohol. I wasn’t trying to escape from

Rebuilding Lives for Men and Women with Dignity, Honor & Respect Passages Rebuilding Lives for Men, with Dignity, Honor & Respect

Passages A News Publication of Bridge House The CARF Survey Employment Bridge House Clinical Corner After Treatment

It was a goal of Bridge House to be- sion. It was quite an experience to From the Vocational Department come certified by an international cer- review the current policies and pro- There is no federal law like the Ameri- tifying agency, such as the Commis- cedures and work to put into practice can Disability Act that protects ex- sion on Accreditation of Rehabilitation the changes that address the ever offenders against job discrimination. Facilities (CARF), and we as a clinical evolving standards for best practices. Some states have statues to protect team began to do our part to make the The survey was meant to make our ex-offenders from job discrimination adjustments to meet the standards of very good program better, and we but in reality they are ineffective due excellence in the field. Else Pedersen all benefitted from the experience. the difficulty in proving discrimination. and Michelle Gaiennie worked tire- Everyone worked together, and we Many employers, who are reluctant lessly to explore, explain, and bring were able to model cooperation and to hire individuals with a history of into practice any policy or procedure teamwork. It was amazing to see how substance abuse, are more reluctant that needed attention. Preparing for unselfishly everyone worked to meet about hiring a substance abuser with the survey offered us all a wonderful the goal of certification. Leadership a criminal record. Ex-offenders are opportunity to work as a collaborative was profoundly supportive and helped often looked at by employers as mor- staff with Nicolette Harvey and the with every change; keeping the reality ally deficient, unreliable, and, in some counselors at Grace House. that we do good work at the forefront. cases, dangerous. Given this attitude, The atmosphere remained light and limited marketable skills, and a spotty We have always served our residents the meetings were collegial. It was a work history it is extremely difficult for with unconditional positive regard and huge undertaking and a very positive these clients to find gainful employ- honored our mission to treat people experience. with dignity, honor, and respect. It ment. The Vocational Staff at Bridge became time to make sure that At the end of the survey there was a House assists these clients on focus- everything that happens in treat- discussion of the process. At that clos- ing their job search on occupations ment evolved from the research on ing conference, the surveyor said he and employers who historically hire best practices and that our work was would send his family to our program. ex-offenders. The staff also assists focused, directed, and documented in There is no greater vote of confidence them in developing realistic goals, ways that help to establish solid con- from someone who looks at facilities and developing job search strategies. tinuity of care. We literally addressed for a living. It seems he looked at us in Mock interviews and role playing when every aspect of treatment at Bridge the way we would like to see our- to disclose their substance abuse House. We needed to see what we do selves, as a place providing the kind problem and criminal records are two and how we document our experienc- of treatment we would wish for the of the strategies used. es to accurately reflect what happens people we love most. The Vocational Staff refers all clients as individuals’ progress through our who have felony conviction to employ- Jo E. Cohen LPC, LMFT, LAC, CCS treatment program. ers who have previously hired our Bridge House Clinical Director clients. The Vocational Staff keeps an The amazing part is how close we [email protected] open relationship with these employ- were to standards of excellence by 504.821.7286 ers. The Vocational Staff also refers simply staying on track with our mis- 05 Passages these clients to, Community Services, a federally funded program, who have Life Worth Our New Execu- contracts with certain employers who hire ex-felons. However, some of the Living tive Director of work is seasonal and need is greater From a current resident Clinical Services than the demand. I reached a point of hopelessness From the CEO Many of our clients, who are ex- and misery before I came into Bridge Many of you know that Michelle Gaiennie felons, have limited work histories House. I would pray every night that I has been the Executive Director of Grace and often have unrealistic expectation wouldn’t wake up the next morning. I House since 2006. about their vocational goals. Through was consumed by anger, fear, resent- individual and group counseling, the ment, guilt and shame. I felt that I was Michelle entered that position with a vast Vocational Staff assist our clients in in this never ending cycle of failure amount of experience in both direct clini- developing realistic job goals. The Vo- and defeat. So I attempted suicide. cal services and clinical administrative cational Counselor must be able show God watching over me, I didn’t suc- services, having worked at West Jeffer- clients that individuals with felony ceed. I decided to give life one more son Behavioral Health Center for the 10 convictions are not hired in fields that chance. years prior to coming to Grace House. are required to obtain professional I entered Bridge House in April 2013. I am happy to share that Michelle has licenses and/or to be bonded. We The therapeutic community quickly now accepted the position of Execu- need to persuade them that pursuing welcomed me in. The love and care tive Director of Clinical Services. She these types of occupations are not in of the counselors and staff made me will oversee not only the Grace House their best interest without destroying feel comfortable. This gave me an Clinical Program, but all of our clinical their motivation. The Vocational Staff open heart so I could start working services. I am certain that both the clini- must also convince these clients, that a program of recovery. I remember cal staffs as well as those we serve will they need start at an employment level a counselor coming into group and benefit from her leadership in this, our equal with their current skills level and saying “Don’t do Bridge House, Do re- most important task. work histories. It is important to show covery”. I decided to take this sugges- our client that promotions will come as tion and started working the 12-step Congratulations and thank you Michelle! they develop new job skills. program. By working the steps and Clients are encouraged to embrace having the love, support and guidance Else Pedersen–CEO their fears about being prejudged from Bridge House, I started changing [email protected] because they are in treatment and/ and becoming a better person. I have 504.821.7122 or ex-offenders. Clients are shown learned so much since I have been how to spin these into a positive by here—the main thing being that I can Shop Our Thrift focusing on their rehabilitation. They recover and life is worth living. are encourage to tell employers about Bridge House has helped me restore Stores! being in recovery and that they are the relationship with my family, led classic furniture working with a sponsor and that the me to a relationship with God and has quality used clothing staff at Bridge House / Grace House taught me how to trust in what’s other vintage accessories feels that they stable enough in their than myself. I have choices now and reconditioned appliances recovery to work outside of Bridge look forward to what life has to offer. I House. Through the Bridge House / would like to finish with a quote from Low Prices, Unique Products, Grace House Work Therapy Program the ninth step promises, “We are going Great Cause. and Vocational Counseling, our clients to know a new freedom and a new are given the tools to meet the chal- happiness. We will not regret the past 1160 Camp Street 7901 Airline Dr. lenges of a competitive job market. nor wish to shut the door on it. We will 70130 Metairie 70003 504.522.4476 ext16 504.737.4752 comprehend the word serenity and we Leon J. Naquin MS, LRC will know peace.” Vocational Director To make a donation/schedule a [email protected] Jason H. pickup call 504-525-3130 504.821.7151 amazing from Rebuilding Lives for Women, withGrace GraceDignity, Honor & Respect Amazing Grace A News Publication of Grace House

and other blood borne diseases are Gender Specific prevalent in the population served I am more deter- and every client is asked at intake if Care they would like a referral for HIV/STD mined than ever Grace House Clinical Corner testing and counseling. Limited com- From a current resident Providing quality services includes munity resources and long wait times My name is Nicole. I am originally from responding to individual client needs. for appointments serve as a barrier for Chalmette. I started using drugs when I Grace House strives to address the the women of Grace House getting the was 21 years old; it started with drinking needs of the women we serve by of- care that they need, but we continue and smoking marijuana. At the age of 26, fering gender specific programs and to stress the importance of preventa- I started doing hard drugs with my mother services and stressing the importance of tive medical care. and sister. It started with using pain pills, women’s health issues. Too often in ad- Grace House does more than pro- and then I graduated to crack. In a mat- diction we see drugs become the priority vide treatment to the women of the ter of three months I had lost everything, for the women we serve and their health, New Orleans Community. Daily we including my soul. wellness, family relationships, safety and are working to reunite families, stop I got married to my husband and immedi- much more take a backseat. It is the the spread of sexually transmitted ately starting lying to him about using. I goal of the staff at Grace House to treat diseases, and empower women to left home for weeks and weeks at a time. women and focus on women’s issues. manage their medical, mental and I began using so much that I left my hus- The focus begins with daily walk and spiritual needs. This work cannot be band’s house and my children to live on gender specific meditations, restoring done without the dedicated staff and the streets. I started selling my body for the soul and focusing on inner growth. community volunteers that serve our money for about a year. I got so bad that Women are encouraged to explore is- programs and of course our clients I went to jail for prostitution twice. Finally sues of self-esteem, family relationships, willingness to change and drive to in 2011 I went to Grace House. I stayed grief, guilt and love in the daily medita- improve their own lives. three months, and I then left the program tion practice. Since women face unique early. Within a month I relapsed. I did Nicolette Harvey, LMSW issues related to substance abuse in- the same thing over again; sell my body, Grace House Clinical Director cluding trauma, gender roles and parent- drink and not care about anything at all. [email protected] ing Grace House utilizes gender specific Finally on June 10, 2013 I became sober 504-899-2423 ext 22 curriculum for groups and independent and came back to Grace House. I am recovery work including Stephanie Cov- now two months clean and very deter- ington’s A Women’s Way Through the 12 mined to complete this program. This time Steps and A Woman’s Journal: Helping I want it more than ever. I’m learning how Women Recover. to cope with my problems. I am paying Another important piece for women in more attention this time to my recovery. recovery are women’s health issues. I am learning who I am and I owe it to For many clients, it has been years my counselors and to Grace House for since their last gynecological visit or Want a tax deduction? believing in me today. I also have faith mammogram. Grace House works Got an old car? in God that he will direct me in the right diligently with the Tulane School of Donate your car today! path. I am more determined than ever to Medicine students to identify clients who accomplish this road to recovery at Grace need women’s medical services and Call 504-598-3355 House. make appropriate referrals. Hepatitis C Nicole M. 07 Bridge House / Grace House CLIENT continued from p. 2 Christmas in Christmas in transition plan and the discharge plan. Transition and discharge planning as- July July In Kind sists the clients to move from one level From the Assistant Income Devel- of care to another. A well-developed Donors opment Director Angelo’s Bakery discharge plan is critical to provide the Bridge House / Grace House hosted Astor Crowne Plaza clients the support they will need for its annual Christmas in July Dinner for Brown’s Dairy their ongoing recovery and wellbeing. the homeless and indigent on Sunday, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Identified needs of the transition or dis- July 28, 2013. Nearly 500 people Capdeboscq Catering Service charge plans may be housing, medical were treated to a dinner of turkey, Chosen Cakes and Caterers services, social supports and self-help ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables, Conseco’s Market groups. It is critical to the success of salad, and dessert. Jerry Amato, of Aurora Daigle the client’s treatment that they receive Mother’s Restaurant, graciously donat- Domino Sugar a copy of their discharge plan. ed the turkeys, hams, and vegetables Dooky Chase Restaurant We are proud of the treatment pro- and prepared the food. The Bridge Double Tree Hotel NO Airport gram we have at Bridge House / House / Grace House Thrift Store was Driscoll Antiques, Restoration & Grace House and always work to im- on hand to donate clothing and toilet- Design prove it by asking the clients for input. ries to those that attended. French Market Ice One way we receive input is through Although it was a hot summer day, Gendusa Bakery an anonymous monthly client satisfac- Bridge House / Grace House was Guillory’s Grocery tion survey that all clients have the op- able to provide a few treats to help Highlights Catering & Gourmet Shop portunity to complete. The individuals everyone forget the heat and enjoy Hotel Monteleone we serve are one of the best sources the festivities. Over 100 volunteers Hyatt French Quarter of information for the continued suc- helped set-up, serve, clean-up, and Ice House cess of our treatment programs. distribute clothing and toiletries. All of Institutional Sales Langenstein’s Supermarket-Uptown Michelle Gaiennie, LCSW, ADS this made Christmas in July an event Leidenheimer Baking Co., Ltd. [email protected] to remember. Liberty’s Kitchen 504.899.2423 Ext 11 Bridge House / Grace House thanks Marques Food Distribution the volunteers, donors, staff, resi- Mr. Mudbug Catering dents, and everyone else that helped Multi-Plan with Christmas in July. Bridge House / National Fruit Flavor Co. Inc. Grace House will also host Thanksgiv- Omni Royal Orleans Hotel ing Dinner and a Christmas Dinner for Perret’s Army & Outdoor Store the homeless and indigent this year. Piccadilly Cafeteria Please note that the Thanksgiving Din- Progressive Brokerage ner will be held on Sunday, November Radosta Grocery 24, 2013 in an attempt to serve more Rayne Memorial United Methodist patrons, and the Christmas Dinner Church will be on Wednesday, December 25, Reily Food Company 2013. Both meals will run from 11:00 Sclafani’s Cooking School AM to 1:00 PM. Volunteer positions Southern Oaks Plantation are limited and fill up quickly; please Sunbeam Bread register to volunteer by contacting me. United Food Service Marketing Inc. Joe Pitman Whole Foods Market Volunteers Prepare to Serve [email protected] Winn-Dixie 504.821.7288 Zaras Food Store Zephyr Green LLC 08 Bridge House / Grace House Mr. Legs XIII From the Assitant Income Develop- of money raised by the respective con- ment Director testant. The other winners are selected Chopin, Wagar, Richard & Kutcher, LLP Counter Top Factory Over 700 people came out to see Mr. by the judges. Cox Communications Legs XIII—the thirteenth installment Last year’s Mr. Legs event was the Dameron Pierson of the popular men’s most successful iteration Echo Ventures, Inc. beauty pageant parody of the event up to that Evans Landscaping fundraiser. The evening point, but we are de- First NBC Bank featured entertainment, lighted to announce that Gulf Coast Bank and Trust food, music, and one of we surpassed last year’s Kelly & Abide the most bizarre beauty stellar numbers. Thanks Laitram pageants this side of to the generous support of Maria and Curtis Pellerin Lake Pontchartrain. It our sponsors and the hard Mudbug Plumbing and Repair all took place on Sat- work of our contestants, Peoples Health urday, July 13, 2013 at committee members, River Parish Disposal Generations Hall in New and volunteers, Mr. Legs Southern Electronics Orleans. raised much needed funds Stone Creek Club and Spa for Bridge House / Grace An eclectic mix of con- Verges Rome Architects, APAC House’s substance abuse testants appeared on Westway Group, Inc. treatment program. A job stage including: a very Xplore Federal Credit Union well done by all! pregnant Jessica Simp- Mr. Legs XIII Bronze Sponsor son, a risqué Emeril, Roberto Espinoza Our sincerest thanks go to Abita Brewing Company the centaur-esque “Bad Horse”, “The our emcees Laura Buchtel and Mike Boh Bros Package”, WWL-TV’s own Angela Hill, Hoss of WWL-TV and to the judges: Cheramie Frame Shop & Gallery beauty pageant veteran Honey Boo Boo, Jodi Borrello – Comedian, Chet Computrols whipped cream obsessed Paula Deen, a Pourciau – Designer, and Sheba Turk Delgado Community College prize fighter, an 1980s workout instructor, – WWL-TV Reporter. We also thank Hymel and Ready, APAC Finn McCool himself with backup danc- the talented Muff-a-lottas for their terrific Jos. R. Labadot Inc. ers, a wiretapping Uncle Sam, a dancing performances. Latter & Blum Pee-wee Herman, a pink wigged contes- Many thanks to all that supported Mr. McGlinchey Stafford tant who’s identity is still unknown, a Sat- Legs XIII. We sincerely appreciate Resource Bank urday Night Fever inspired dancer, and a the support of Bridge House / Grace Townsend Addiction Treatment Centers special Destiny’s Child on-stage reunion. House’s mission. Be on the lookout for Unistar Plastics L.L.C. Our seventeen contestants provided an Mr. Legs XIV in the Summer of 2014! Richard Vallon incredible show! Verges Consultants Inc. Joe Pitman The following are the results of the Partner Sponsor [email protected] contest: Skinniest Legs – ; Angelique Boutique, Shoe and Kids Blake Poole 504.821.7288 Best Costume – Steve Carnes; Pig- Charlotte Williamson Salon mentally Challenged – Landon Tucker; Platinum Sponsors Corporate Realty, Inc. Sexiest Legs – Karl Lehmann; Hairiest Whitman Family Foundation Rob Florence Legs – Jason Borja; Best Performance Gold Sponsors Finn McCool’s Irish Pub – Patrick Fess, Brandon Maggiore, Crosby Tugs, Inc. Innovative Turbine Aircraft Solutions and Blake Poole; 2nd Runner-up – Entergy Lakeside Toyota Jonathan Porter; Runner-up – Michael Wally Pontiff Jr. Foundation Philip Lawrence Zarou; Mr. Legs XIII – Roberto Espi- Silver Sponsors James A. Mounger, Attorney noza. AdvantaClean of Metro New Orleans St. James Cheese Company Bayou Orthotic & Prosthetic Co. Verges Mechanical Mr. Legs XIII, the Runner-up, and the 2nd Carrollton Group Kevin Zanca Runner-up are determined by the amount 09 Bridge House / Grace House Mr. Legs XIII In-Kind Donors Generate Dona- Abita Brewing Gifted Nurses New Orleans School of Angela King Gallery Greg’s Antiques Cooking tions for Bridge Angelique Valteau Honey Baked Ham New York Pizza Ann Koerner Antiques & Huckleberry’s Restaurant Orleans Coffee Exchange House / Grace Designs Imperial Palace Casino Pearl Wine Co. House at No Cost Aunt Sally’s Praline Resort & Spa Porter Print Production Shops Inc. Interior Designs, Inc. Premier Fitness to You Azalea Landscaping and International Vintage Gui- Pyramid’s Cafe Business owners, every time your company Lawn Care tars of New Orleans Quarter Master Deli accepts payment from a customer using a Back to the Garden Izzo’s Illegal Burrito Ralph Songy credit card, Bridge House / Grace House Bed, Bath & Beyond John Jay Beauty Salon Raymond L. Fiegel can receive a donation in your name! Bridge Body Bistro Spa & Salon John’s Tuxedos, Inc. Richard R. Vallon House / Grace House has recently teamed up Bonefish Grill Ristorante Del Porto with the Extra Credit® Donation Program. Bucca di Beppo Rock-N-Bowl Bunny Bread Inc. Rubenstein’s Fash- Most businesses accept credit and debit Cafe Degas ions cards as a form of payment for their goods Cafe Ditali”s Sammy’s Food Ser- and services. Merchants pay a fee to a credit City Park vice and Deli card services provider for processing these Cleopatra’s Restaurant, Sarita’s Grill transactions. This is typically considered part Inc. September Stockstill of “the cost of doing business.” Extra Credit® Coleman E. Adler & Smitty’s Seafood redirects a portion of these processing fees Sons, Inc. Restaurant to Bridge House / Grace House in the form of Come Back Inn Söpö a monthly donation. This donation does not Cookie By Design/The Southern Oaks come out of the businesses’ profit. Rather, Original Cookie Bouquet Plantation it comes out of the Credit Card Processor’s Copelands Southport Hall revenue. So, businesses can provide Bridge Corner Cafe Spirit Tours New House / Grace House a steady stream of con- Creole Country Sausage Orleans tinuous funding at no extra cost to them. Factory Runner-Up Michael Zarou Starbucks Coffee Extra Credit has an exclusive partnership with Creole Creamery Company WorldPay, the third largest Credit Card Pro- Creole Queen Kerry Godbold Summer Lyric Theatre at cessor in the industry. By switching to World- David Art Center Koz’s Restaurant Pay Merchants can provide an ongoing source Deanie’s on Hayne Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Team Gleason of funding for Bridge House / Grace House. Delgado Community Col- La Madeleine Tha’ Dough Jo Your current rates will NOT increase. In fact, lege Culinary Arts Lola’s The Bulldog because WorldPay deals directly with Visa, Drago’s Lakeside Sea- Los Sombreros The Creole Grill & Bar MasterCard, etc., they can typically lower your food, Inc. Cookin’ The Old Coffee Pot Res- monthly processing expenses. Businesses Faux Pas Prints Lucy’s Retired Surfers taurant participating in the Extra Credit program will be Federico’s Family Florist Bar & Restaurant The Shed supported by WorldPay’s local account team, Five Happiness Restau- Madigan’s Bar The Tinder Box which serves the Greater New Orleans area. rant Mandina’s Restaurant Torino Leather Co. In summary, businesses can support Bridge Foghorn’s Chicken Melting Pot Trey Yuen Restaurant House / Grace House with an ongoing source Fingers Meyer the Hatter, Ltd. Twisted Hair Salon of funding by having WorldPay handle their Frames Inc. New Orleans Art by Cath Vincent’s Italian Cuisine credit card processing. This will, in most Generations Hall New Orleans Athletic Wirthmore Antiques cases, positively impact their bottom line, Giclee Fine Arts Club Zea Rotisserie & Grill while helping perpetuate the mission of Bridge House / Grace House. For more information Thanks for your support! call Wayne Olivio at 504-821-7288. 10 Bridge House / Grace House

A donation was made in Memory BREAK continued from p. 1 or Honor of: and unwilling to hold a steady job, a Adam / Perrin Family Michael A. Piazza, Jr. woman I didn’t realize I loved until it Alexander Lott Michael Hecht was too late had left, and I had just Alma Maleckar Bear Mollie Michala Lyman & Marea Lyman lost any sense of direction or drive. It Andrew Louis Florez Thomas was a few days after meeting with him Anthony Macaluso Mrs. Doris Jonau that he suggested Bridge House, and Bryan J. Sentilles, II Mrs. Elisabeth Ainsworth Rareshide I told him I would be willing to give it Charles A. Achee, Jr. Mrs. Mary Mustacchia Angello a try. Problem was I did not make the Cheryl Barousse Frischhertz Mrs. Vicki Adams attempt until he had Buzzy call me Daniel Osborne Ms. Betty Cooper directly, and then I reluctantly agreed Dwight Boyd Ms. Mavis H. Ashby to go into the program. Gail Gaiennie Richard “Buzzy” Gaiennie Bridge House gave me the break I Hunter Logan Cooper Steven Latter needed to get my life back on track. I John H. Petry, Jr. Vicky Cole was able to take the time to work on Joy Christine Morales my issues and learn about my disease Memorial & Honor Donors while not having to worry about any outside issues in my life; I was able to Anne C. Raxsdale Marian Plant Petry focus solely on the drinking and the Barbara C. Dunbar Mark and Ava Basso problems that led me to use alcohol Beatrice L. Nugent Mary H. Christie as an escape. I was able to regain a Bill and Kathy Hornsby Michael J. Valenti sense of purpose. Brian C. Parks Mr. and Mrs. A. J. McNamara Car Crushers Inc of Louisiana Mr. and Mrs. David H. Maleckar Bridge House has been instrumental Caroll Fortmayer Mr. and Mrs. Donald R. Midkiff in helping me find the tools needed Charles Rodney Smith, MD Mr. and Mrs. Emile Alito, Jr. to turn my life around, and I enjoy life Charmane Leblanc Mr. and Mrs. Esmond Phelps today. The relationships I formed with Clarence J. Steeg Mr. and Mrs. J. Parham Werlein my fellows in recovery, the counsel- Classmates & Faculty-SLU Athletic Train- Mr. and Mrs. James E. Zadina ors, and support staff have been vital ing Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson P. Brooke, Jr. to my turnaround; and I am eternally Clifton Black Mr. and Mrs. Jerry E. Romig grateful. For this reason, I continue to Debra Jayne Mr. and Mrs. Merlin J. Perrin give back whenever I can. Currently I Dr. and Mrs. Richard E. Gruner Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Kearny serve on two event committees (come Earl L. Weiser, C. L. U. Insurance Mrs. Lorraine Santopadre see our Fashion Show next January!), Elisabeth A. M. Rareshide Mrs. Paula L. Maher ‘compete’ in the Mr. Legs fundraiser, Elizabeth Himel Killeen Myra Z. Thalheim and volunteer whenever time allows. Emmett A. Smith, Jr. Nancy Salathe & David Heath Giving back helps to keep me sober, Frederick Masset, Jr. New Orleans Concierge Association and I am completely willing to assist G.S. Mentz Pat and Daniel Mack those who are entrenched in the same George and Nathalie Thomas Quentin Messer misery and despair I too once was in Gladys Paysse Robert L. Vanderbrook any way within my limits. The time and Joan M. Florez Ronald C. and Janice L. Greer service pales little in comparison to the Joseph Veninata Ronna S. Harris joy of having my life back. Juanita T Herndon Rosemary S. Baldioceda Jeff, Age 32 Landis Construction Co., LLC Shirley H. Hyde Larry N. Buras Sonia Mehta Lolita M. Gary Viki Pilie & Taylor M.L. Ogden 11 Bridge House / Grace House Upcoming Events Celebrity Waiters VII Tuesday, October 15, 2013 Hyatt Regency New Orleans--Empire A Room 11 AM-2 PM Silent Auction, Raffle, and Lunch Served by Local Celebrities Media Sponsor: Fox 8 Individual Reservation $75, Sponsorship Levels begin at $750

Local celebrities serve lunch.

Rockin’ With the NOLA Stars IV Saturday, November 2, 2013 Generations Hall 6-10 PM Silent Auction, Raffle, Food, and Dancing with the Stars New Orleans Style. Media Sponsor: WGNO-TV and NOLA38 The CW Tickets $40 in advance, $75 VIP (special viewing area)

Local celebrities pair up with Dance Quarter professionals in this Dancing With the Stars type event. The winner is the dancer who raises the most funds for Bridge House / Grace House.

Tree of Recovery Friday, December 6, 2013 Lakeside Shopping Center Begins at 11 AM

Led by emcee Norman Robinson, the celebration will feature a tree with ornaments honoring those we remember. Also, there will be holiday songs from the Bridge House & Grace House choirs, remarks from Bridge House / Grace House representatives and residents, and light refreshments.

5th Annual Recycled Fashion Show Friday, January 31, 2014 Generations Hall 7-10 PM Silent Auction, Raffle, Food Tickets $25 in advance, $50 VIP (special viewing area)

A fashion show featuring clothing from the Bridge House Thrift Store that has been “tweaked” by local designers into fashionable outfits.

For more information on any upcoming event contact: Wayne Olivio at 504-821-7135 or [email protected] or visit www.bridgehouse.org/events Non-Profit Organization Bridge House Corporation U.S. Postage 4150 Earhart Blvd. PAID Permit No. 1392 New Orleans, LA 70125 New Orleans, LA

Address Service Requested

Rebuilding Lives for Men and Women with Dignity, Honor & Respect

The mission of Bridge House / Grace House is Inside This Issue: to provide gender specific treatment to men and women who have become dependent on alcohol Holistic Health from the CEO p. 1 or drugs so that they may lead sober and produc- Client Centered Treatment p. 2 tive lives. Marketing Department Message p. 3 Long-term residential services are offered in an Passages p. 4 atmosphere that promotes dignity, honor and Amazing Grace p. 6 respect. These services are offered regardless of Christmas in July Recap p. 7 one’s ability to pay. Mr. Legs XIII Recap p. 8 Memorial & Honor Donors p. 10 Upcoming Events p. 11