Feed the Soul
On Wednesday, July 5, 2006, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill and Emeril Lagasse hosted an intimate fundraising luncheon entitled “FEED THE SOUL,” at Emeril’s Restaurant in New Olreans. Chef Emeril served a gourmet four course meal with wine pairings to 60 guests. The luncheon, pre-show and concert ticket packages raised over $100,000. All proceeds went to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s Neighbor’s Keeper Foundation and the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, to support hurricane recovery and rebuilding of the Gulf Coast region.
“It was a pleasure to open my doors to my good friends Tim McGraw and Faith Hill in the spirit of renewal of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast,” said Emeril Lagasse. “I appreciate their dedication to help our area, and thank them for their presence here which certainly brightened up the summer season for many people in our area.”
Luncheon patrons enjoyed a menu with such delicacies as chilled Maine lobster, fresh Atlantic halibut, braised short ribs and boudin blanc, along with international wines chosen especially for the courses. The festive atmosphere at Emeril’s flagship restaurant with Joe Simon jazz quartet playing traditional jazz tunes, allowed nationwide supporters of the two foundations to gather in a friendly and relaxed setting.
The day’s experience continued at an exclusive pre-show party with an acoustic interactive performance by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. The group then viewed the sold-out “Soul2Soul II” concert from VIP seats at the New Orleans Arena, proceeds from the concert also benefited the Gulf Coast region.