May / June 2025

By Dean M. Shaprio

Lila Palmer, General and Artistic Director of the New Orleans Opera Association, is transforming the 82-year-old organization with bold programming and community focus. Marking her one-year anniversary in June 2025, she’s launching the city’s first Opera Festival, staging innovative productions like Fire Shut Up in My Bones, and collaborating with local artists like Jon Batiste. A former singer and librettist with academic roots at Cambridge and NEC, Lila is making opera more inclusive, contemporary, and engaging for modern audiences.

By Dean M. Shaprio​

LaVerne Toombs is a bestselling author, motivational speaker, and business consultant whose journey from rural Louisiana to national recognition is marked by resilience and service. After a decade in politics, including work with U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu, she held senior parish government roles before launching her consulting firm in 2024. Her latest memoir, Me: My Story of Perseverance & Triumph, reflects her challenges and drive to inspire. Committed to giving back, LaVerne remains active in community organizations and dedicated to helping others succeed.

By Anita Oubre

​

Rick David is a New Orleans R&B performer known for his soulful tribute shows honoring Frankie Beverly and Maze. Inspired by legends like Marvin Gaye and his late mother, Rick rediscovered his passion for music later in life, performing with bands like Airflow and The Funky 5. Now in his 60s, he continues to write, rehearse, and wow audiences with energetic shows—proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams.