Welcome to the Best of New Orleans! Shoptalk 03 15 05

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SHOPTALK By Kandace Power Graves

03 15 05

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Fun and Games

Watching the home team win is the ultimate thrill at a sporting event, but the New Orleans Hornets make sure fans enjoy their evening at the New Orleans Arena regardless of the final numbers on the scoreboard.

"It's a fan-friendly event," says Harold Kaufman, vice president of public relations for the franchise. "It's very entertainment-driven." When the team isn't on the court, the Hornets' mascot does skits, the Honeybees cheerleaders perform routines and the Stingers' youth dance group entertains the audience. Some games also include special contests and giveaways.

"There are so many things that capture the attention of our fans, whether you have been a true follower of the NBA or not," Kaufman says. "Plus, you are seeing some of the greatest athletes in the world." The Hornets also make the games accessible to all fans, with ticket prices as low as $7 and season ticket prices that start at about $430 for 43 games. Call 525-HOOP or visit www.nba.com/hornets/tickets for ticket information.

The Hornets also try to make an impact on the city, holding a luncheon for senior citizens at Christmas and supporting the Read to Achieve program.

Have a Ball

If you like to mix fun with supporting the arts, you'd be a fool to miss the Regions Bank SweetArts Ball benefit for the Contemporary Arts Center April 1.

Don your favorite costume -- film-themed costumes or black tie are required -- and help the CAC raise funds while saluting their supporters who have made the arts center a success. They will be honored at a patron party Saturday, March 19. The SweetArts Ball at the CAC (900 Camp St.) is scheduled from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. April 1 and has a theme of "Cinematic Lovers." The ball includes live entertainment, gourmet food, an open bar, silent action and elaborately decorated themed rooms. Tickets for the ball range from $50 to $180. Tickets to the ball and patron party are $200. Group rates and CAC member discounts are available. To buy tickets, call 528-3805 or 528-3800 or log onto www.cacno.org for more information.