• Home
  • Musings
  • Black & Gold
  • The Beatles Adventures
  • The Beatles stories
  • Hope for Habitat: Katrina X
  • About
The Right Brain Diaries The Right Brain Diaries
  • Home
  • Musings
  • Black & Gold
  • The Beatles Adventures
  • The Beatles stories
  • Hope for Habitat: Katrina X
  • About
1When the little things become the big things.

When the little things become the big things.

Apr 6, 2016

The search for children whose cards provided hope in the midst of Katrina chaos.   August 29, 2015 marked the tenth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history. While the media flooded the world with an overload of dismal aftermath imagery, such were memories that those of us who had […]

2The Passion, Destiny and Divine Intervention.

The Passion, Destiny and Divine Intervention.

Mar 23, 2016

A God Wink that led to a Garth Brooks encounter Do you believe in Destiny? That’s the question I posed on the very first post that kicked off The Right Brain Diaries blog in October of 2014. Over the next few months, I shared the chapters of an epic adventure with a real life fairy tale […]

3The perils of going viral.

The perils of going viral.

Mar 22, 2016

I am a word nerd. For me, writing is a passion. It’s just something I’ve always loved. The thing about writing is that it’s not something  one can really do on demand. Ideas come and go, and often times, if they’re not scribbled down, they’re gone for good. But every now and then, inspiration hits and […]

4The Epidemic of Entitlement: response to Tulane students’ petition

The Epidemic of Entitlement: response to Tulane students’ petition

Mar 17, 2016

Recently, when reading the news online, I stumbled upon a headline that stunned me. The story reported that a small group of Tulane students were dissatisfied with the university’s announcement that the very accomplished journalist and Today Show host Hoda Kotb had been selected to deliver the Class of 2016’s commencement address. The students declared […]

5Katrina Water Line – John Doherty, artist

Katrina Water Line – John Doherty, artist

Aug 23, 2015

Limited edition of 2015 for the Tenth Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina This handmade steel Hurricane Symbol is an new, slightly larger version of the original symbol which was an edition size of 80 that debuted in the winter of 2005. The piece was originally designed to be hung at the level of Hurricane Katrina’s storm […]

6Mardi Gras MisChief Swamp People Lady in Green – Connie Born, artist

Mardi Gras MisChief Swamp People Lady in Green – Connie Born, artist

Aug 12, 2015

Autographed by Terral Evans and Johnny Panks of the History Channel’s hit show, “Swamp People.” SOLD The Mardi Gras MisChief Swamp Lady in Green is ready to emerge from the Louisiana Swamp lands. She is fashioned out of fine Italian Lambskin embossed in a green animal print, with her skirt layered in green Lambskin. Her […]

7Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans? – Adam Sambola, Artist

Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans? – Adam Sambola, Artist

Jul 26, 2015

Inspired by New Orleans’ own Harry Connick, Jr. This oversized ceramic bowl features Adam Sambola’s iconic “RedBean the Crawfish” encircled by piano keys and performing the song near and dear to all New Orleanians hearts. The song became an anthem for those who were forced to evacuate due to Katrina, and a celebration when they […]

8Swamp Mist- Phil Galatas, artist

Swamp Mist- Phil Galatas, artist

Jul 22, 2015

Born and reared on Bayou Liberty in Slidell, artist Phil Galatas began painting in high school, and his subject matter was always Louisiana inspired. He was influenced tremendously by the water, marsh, trees and culture of the state’s beautiful scenery. After earning a degree in Commercial Art, Phil served four years in the Air Force, […]

9Six 2 Seven Bourbon by Nelle Landry

Six 2 Seven Bourbon by Nelle Landry

Jul 22, 2015

Autographed by Channing Tatum. SOLD. In the artist’s words: When Channing Tatum’s mom invites you (and 20 of your favorite church lady friends) to join her for lunch at her son’s restaurant, Saints & Sinners, how can your response be anything but “laissez les bons temps roulez”? Great food and service met a great company […]

10Katrina’s Kiss – Al Reisz, artist

Katrina’s Kiss – Al Reisz, artist

Jul 22, 2015

This may very well be the only artwork enhanced by Katrina’s flood waters. Al Reisz is a writer and creative woodturner who was born and grew up in the Gentilly section of New Orleans. He moved to Slidell in the mid-1980s, where for the next twenty years, he and his wife Jean reared their three […]

11Three Piano Men – Tami Curtis, artist

Three Piano Men – Tami Curtis, artist

Jul 17, 2015

SOLD. Inspired by Allen Toussaint, Professor Longhair and Dr. John. The original of Three Piano Men is on permanent display in the Memphis Blues Hall Of Fame. The artwork also was featured in Billboard Magazine in a story about the museum. In the artist’s words: When people ask me ‘How long did it take you […]

12Risen – Devin Boutwell

Risen – Devin Boutwell

Jul 17, 2015

Autographed by Tony Hawk. SOLD. Auctioned on CharityBuzz. Devin Boutwell’s hand carved skateboard, “Risen,” was inspired by his hero, Tony Hawk. It’s symbolic of the many Katrina warriors who rose through the challenges of Hurricane Katrina, becoming stronger and more resilient as a result. It was art and the desire to create that paved a […]

13Duck Dynasty – Joel Geiger, artist

Duck Dynasty – Joel Geiger, artist

Jul 1, 2015

Autographed by Duck Dynasty’s Willie Robertson. At first glance, artist Joel Geiger may be mistaken for one of Duck Dynasty’s Robertson brothers. He sports a beard similar to those for which the brothers are famous. But while the duck hunting brothers seek their prey, Joel is capturing the likeness of pintails, mallards and more in […]

14Strung Out – Kelly Landrum-Hammell, artist

Strung Out – Kelly Landrum-Hammell, artist

Jun 30, 2015

SOLD Known for her whimsical and unique creations, Kelly Landrum-Hammell combines pottery and unexpected elements for truly one-of-a-kind designs. Her works include horsehair-fired clay, raku and functional clay pieces. After eleven years of working in New York City as an agent for Elite Models, Kelly looked to pottery as a creative outlet. She signed up […]

1550 Lips – Michael Reed, artist

50 Lips – Michael Reed, artist

Jun 26, 2015

Inspired by Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones. Music is a big part of Michael’s life, and his first ever concert was that of The Rolling Stones. So when considering which work he would create for the Hope for Habitat: Katrina X event, his mind raced with thoughts of the Stones and front man Mick Jagger. […]

16Perceptions I – Charlotte Lowry Collins, artist

Perceptions I – Charlotte Lowry Collins, artist

Jun 26, 2015

Autographed by Ian Somerhalder, with the message “With all my love and thanks.” SOLD – Auctioned via Charity Buzz. Charlotte’s donation to Hope for Habitat: Katrina X is inspired by Ian’s passion for animal rights, a commitment which she shares. As Hurricane Katrina was approaching, so many people were left with the dilemma of how […]

17Roxanne – Kenny Bridges, artist

Roxanne – Kenny Bridges, artist

Jun 13, 2015

SOLD.  Inspired by Sting. Roxanne dances as if no one is watching in this beautiful oil painting by artist Kenny Bridges. As a child, Kenny loved to draw and doodle, but his father believed he should focus his energies toward a more traditional career. Unfortunately for Kenny, a non-violent drug offense led to his incarceration […]

18Geraldine on Break – Carol Hallock, artist

Geraldine on Break – Carol Hallock, artist

Jun 13, 2015

As seen in the movie, “The Best of Me.” Loose painter and environment artist Carol Hallock often can be spotted kayaking through the bayou, with paint and brushes in hand. She says it is the ultimate plein air experience. The award-winning artist’s work also has graced the silver screen. A hand embellished giclee of Geraldine […]

19Twisted Fleur De Lis – John Doherty, artist

Twisted Fleur De Lis – John Doherty, artist

Jun 7, 2015

Inspired by the New Orleans Saints. John Doherty, who was reared in Slidell, Louisiana, says he learned to work with steel “the hard way” at Southern Shipbuilding. While he moved to Denver, Colorado, in 1994, he was in Slidell the day before Katrina hit. As residents evacuated the city for Katrina, he headed back home […]

20Last Turn Home – Caron Sharpe, artist

Last Turn Home – Caron Sharpe, artist

Jun 3, 2015

SOLD Inspired by Tim McGraw. Somewhere familiar, a safe place to land, That feeling you get when you finally come back. I got all these burdens rollin’ round in my head. Once I round that corner girl you put ’em all to rest I can feel it, feel it, Got the wheels spinnin’, spinnin’ Pullin’ […]

21Tangled Up In Blue – Mary Christopher, artist

Tangled Up In Blue – Mary Christopher, artist

Jun 3, 2015

Inspired by Bob Dylan. I had a job in the great north woods, Working as a cook for a spell. But I never did like it all that much And one day the ax just fell. So I drifted down to New Orleans Where I happened to be employed Workin’ for a while on a […]

22Hope Always Rises – Kim Bergeron, artist

Hope Always Rises – Kim Bergeron, artist

May 28, 2015

Inspired by “Hope Floats” – Garth Brooks, Harry Connick, Jr. and Sandra Bullock. I remember sitting in a movie theater, back in 1998, entranced by Hope Floats, starring Harry Connick, Jr. and Sandra Bullock. There was something about that movie that touched something deep within my heart and soul, and to this day, it remains […]

23“Enchanted,” Inspired by Taylor Swift – Mandie Manzano, artist

“Enchanted,” Inspired by Taylor Swift – Mandie Manzano, artist

May 21, 2015

Inspired by Taylor Swift. Do you believe in Fairytales? The back story behind “Enchanted,” inspired by Taylor Swift, created by artist Mandie Manzano. We’re hoping for another fairy tale ending with a sig that can help turn this work of art into affordable homes for deserving families. Mandie says as she created this piece, she […]

24Beauty Underneath – Stephan Wanger, artist

Beauty Underneath – Stephan Wanger, artist

May 20, 2015

Special thanks to artist Stephan Wanger of Bead Town and Galeria Alegria, who  who will donate a custom work from his “Beauty Underneath” series to benefit East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity via the Hope for Habitat: Katrina X project. This commissioned work of art, created with Mardi Gras beads and additional elements, will feature […]

25Rock Star – Connie Born, artist

Rock Star – Connie Born, artist

May 20, 2015

SOLD Inspired by Rush’s Neil Peart. Not long ago, I ran into artist Connie Born’s husband, Dean, at an event and he extended a hand to me, saying, “I cannot begin to tell you how excited Connie is to be part of the Hope for Habitat: Katrina X exhibit. She’s got her fire back.” When […]

26Charlie Daniels Fiddle – Adam Sambola, artist

Charlie Daniels Fiddle – Adam Sambola, artist

May 20, 2015

Autographed by The Charlie Daniels Band. SOLD – Auctioned via Charity Buzz. Artist Adam Sambola is best known for his iconic character, RedBean the Crawfish, and the colorful crustacean’s sidekick, Gumbo the Crab. Individually or collectively, they appear in many of the artist’s works, celebrating Louisiana culture and customs. The Bayou State’s music legends and […]

27The Circle of Life

The Circle of Life

May 19, 2015

Inspired by Sir Elton John. With the recent fairy tale ending of The Beatles adventures, and the successful auction of the piano autographed by Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, what followed was the inevitable question: How can East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity top this at the 2015 Home Is Where the Art Is […]

28The Stars Align…Again.  The final chapter.

The Stars Align…Again. The final chapter.

Apr 28, 2015

Throughout this Beatles piano adventure, there have been many “Y’all ain’t gonna believe this…” kind of moments. Today, we added more to that list. Following the adventures from signatures to provenance, the Beatles piano was auctioned via CharityBuzz auction site. The winning bid was $98,888, which will fund a Habitat home for a veteran. The […]

29Peace, Love and Hope for the Future. A Beatles Fairy Tale.

Peace, Love and Hope for the Future. A Beatles Fairy Tale.

Jan 1, 2015

Some hope for the future, Some wait for the call To say that the days ahead Will be the best of all. –Paul McCartney, “Hope for the Future.” While November 1 marked the successful ending of our quests for The Beatles’ autographs, it also meant that we had just a few weeks until the East […]

30Listen! Do you want to know a secret?

Listen! Do you want to know a secret?

Jan 1, 2015

Listen! Do you want to know a secret? Do you promise not to tell? —The Beatles, “Do You Want to Know a Secret?” October 31 began with the confirmation that the Habitat truck repairs had been completed. The good folks at B.I.R. Truck and Trailer Repair, who had graciously towed it to specialty repair center […]

31It’s getting better all the time.

It’s getting better all the time.

Dec 31, 2014

I’ve got to admit it’s getting better. A little better all the time. –-The Beatles, “Getting Better” It’s amazing how sometimes the most seemingly mundane of events can turn into an adventure. On Day Four, as we eagerly awaited the repair of the Habitat truck so we could return home with the newly autographed Beatles-themed […]

32And then while I’m away, I’ll write home every day.

And then while I’m away, I’ll write home every day.

Dec 30, 2014

And then while I’m away, I’ll write home every day.–The Beatles, “All My Loving.” The morning of October 29 had begun with a simple Facebook update for those who had joined us, virtually, on our journey home after our secret mission to secure the coveted Paul McCartney autograph on The Beatles themed piano. “And we’re […]

33Here comes the sun.

Here comes the sun.

Dec 11, 2014

Here comes the sun, and I say it’s alright. The morning sun came just a little too soon, with checkout time not far behind. While the few hours of slumber helped, the compounded sleep deprivation of the past week was quickly catching up to us, exacerbated by the maddening growls of hungry stomachs. As anticipated, […]

34The Magical Mystery Tour is hoping to take you away.

The Magical Mystery Tour is hoping to take you away.

Dec 6, 2014

It was sometime between 11 p.m. and midnight that East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity President/CEO Debbie Crouch and I made our way back to our vehicle after the Paul McCartney concert. We were concurrently exhausted and delirious given the extended adventure which had led us to Louisville in the quest for this Holy Grail. […]

35Sir Paul McCartney says, “Yes.”

Sir Paul McCartney says, “Yes.”

Nov 24, 2014

It was the answer we had dared to dream: Sir Paul McCartney had agreed to sign the painted Beatles-themed piano, an auction item benefiting East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity. We set out for Louisville, Kentucky, with the top-secret mission of making the dream a reality. As we pulled into the loading dock area of […]

36Help! I need somebody. Help! Not just anybody.  Day Two, Part Deux.

Help! I need somebody. Help! Not just anybody. Day Two, Part Deux.

Nov 5, 2014

Oh, Murphy’s Law, how we abhor thee. Less than an hour into the second day of our journey toward securing Sir Paul McCartney’s autograph on The Beatles-themed piano, we found ourselves in Franklin, Kentucky, two hours away from our destination of Louisville. As we coasted into B.I.R. Truck and Trailer Repair shop, conveniently located near […]

37Yesterday, all our troubles seemed so far away. Road trip, Day Two.

Yesterday, all our troubles seemed so far away. Road trip, Day Two.

Nov 3, 2014

“Woke up. Fell out of bed. Dragged a comb across my head.” Day Two of our adventure to Louisville to secure Sir Paul McCartney’s autograph on The Beatles-themed piano found us in White House, Tennessee. It was an unanticipated detour due to repeated breakdowns of the East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity truck in which […]

38The Long and Winding Road that leads to a White House stay.

The Long and Winding Road that leads to a White House stay.

Nov 1, 2014

Ever feel like you’re living in a movie of the week? It was with much glee that we celebrated the successful efforts of securing Ringo Starr’s autograph on a Beatles-themed piano benefiting East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity. It was the second of the two-part mission. Meanwhile, part one efforts to convince Sir Paul McCartney […]

39Starr Struck. A Beatle, a piano and holy expletives.

Starr Struck. A Beatle, a piano and holy expletives.

Oct 18, 2014

Have you ever had one of those moments in which you experience something so profound that your heart skips a beat? You can’t think. You can’t breathe. And words escape you. That was the reaction I had when opening an email with a brief but poignant message. “Ringo has agreed to sign this [piano.] Peace […]

40It Don’t Come Easy.

It Don’t Come Easy.

Oct 13, 2014

“Open up your heart, let’s come together, Use a little love and we will make it work out better.”                       –Ringo Starr, “It Don’t Come Easy.” The lyrics of one of Ringo Starr’s most popular songs seemed like an apropos intro for today’s blog entry. Because, indeed, for some people, life surely doesn’t come easy. […]

  • 1
  • 2
Ringo Starr

The Beatles piano auction has ended with a bid of $98,888

This website initially was created to chronicle the quest for autographs from Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Ringo Starr on a piano created for East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity.  The epic journey is chronicled here: The Beatles Adventures, with posts featuring the signings here: Starr Struck and Sir Paul Says, “Yes.”

The auction listing is featured here: CharityBuzz.com. Proceeds from the auction have enabled East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity to provide an affordable home for a deserving veteran and his or her family.

CHARITY BUZZ AUCTIONS FOR HABITAT

Our CharityBuzz auctions of autographed works have ended. To see all of the artists’ works, click here: Hope for Habitat.
Pictured: Fiddle by Adam Sambola, signed by Charlie Daniels and band.

ACCOLADES

Public Relations Society of America – New Orleans:

Silver Anvil Award/Special Event 2018-2019 – Blackout & Gold Second Line

Fleurish Award of Excellence/Social Media Campaign, 2018-2019

Fleurish Award of Excellence/Blog Post, 2017

Certificate of Merit/Blog 2017

Fleurish Award of Excellence/Blog 2016

Fleurish Award/Best of Category, Social Media, 2015

Press Club of New Orleans Excellence in Journalism Awards:

First Place – PR Special Events – Blackout & Gold Second Line

Finalist – Lifestyle Blog, 2017

Public Relations Association of Louisiana – New Orleans:

Flambeaux Certificate of Merit, Special Event, 2018

Flambeaux Award, Best Website, 2016

Follow Us

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram

Contact

  • Kim Bergeron, APR
  • Kim@RightBrainDiaries.com
  • www.rightbraindiaries.com

© 2022 · Right Brain Diaries. All rights reserved.

What's on your mind?

Send Message

© 2016 · Right Brain Diaries. All rights reserved.

  • Home
  • Musings
  • Black & Gold
  • The Beatles Adventures
  • The Beatles stories
  • Hope for Habitat: Katrina X
  • About
 

Loading Comments...
 

You must be logged in to post a comment.