Tuesday, December 30, 2014

A Toast to New Orleans -Celebrations of end of 2014 and the New 2015




Darlings,
Margarita Bergen's photo.

A very special toast to you and your loved ones as we prepare for the ending of 2014 and the beginning of 2015.

As I stated at the beginning of December, New Orleans is the place to be for the holidays. No other place offers the variety of events that we are invited to participate in and celebrate in this very special city.

I have been going to almost every holiday soiree these past week but I was really looking forward to celebrating and sharing with everyone my Fiesta Navidena at Casell-Bergen Gallery's new location at 1305 Decatur Street. Those of you who came enjoyed the melodic sounds of popular award-winning guitarists Julio and Cesar Trio. They set the mood and the culinary creations that included Cuban-style roasted pig, salmon in a dill and caper sauce, prepared and donated by my darling friend Bonnie Broel, as well as the delicious jambalaya cooked to perfection by Chef Emile Schiffer. Champagne was flowing, courtesy of my darling friend Patrick van Hoorebeeck, as well as delicious egg nog, wine and beers. It was real fiesta enjoyed by all prior to Caroling in the Square.
Fiesta NavideƱa - Christmas Party



The next day, it was time to celebrate Noche Buena and that was done at home with friends from South Africa. 


On Christmas Day, I was invited to the annual Holiday Celebration of my darling friends Harry Greenberger and Marshall Harris overlooking Bayou St. John. Check out the photos. 
I was treated to see The Moscow Ballet's “The Great Russian Nutcracker” at the exquisite Saenger Theatre. I want to thank my darling friend, Michael Mitchell, attorney for Broadway in New Orleans, who generously provided me with four tickets to his Grand Suite at the Saenger so I could see the performance, along with my friends. It was a real treat.  
       
Darlings, I am blessed and honored that once again I was included in the list of the Times Picayune's Party Goers. I was actually included in the Hall of Fame in great company. Thanks to all of you for inviting me. See the link   http://www.nola.com/society/index.ssf/2014/12/top_new_orleans_partygoers_of.html                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

There are going to be many end of the year celebrations, as well as soirees to celebrate the beginning of the upcoming Carnival Season. Among them is the Crescent City Countdown Club, welcoming in 2015 as only New Orleans can!
With another year of generous community support, our spirited city can welcome 2015 with live New Orleans music, a unique fleur de lis drop, and the midnight fireworks display over the mighty Mississippi River. The celebration begins at the Decatur Street City Stage in Jackson Square with a performance by Big Sam's Funky Nation from 9:30 to 10:15 p.m. Terrance Simien + the Zydeco Experience will follow at 10:45 to 11:45 p.m. After that time we will count down together to midnight to launch the fleur de lis drop and the fireworks’ Symphony in the Sky to welcome in the New Year.
Watch as the 8-foot tall by 5-foot wide two-dimensional fleur de lis descends a 25-foot pole atop Jax Brewery Condominiums to launch the exquisite Symphony in the Sky. Made of plywood with weather-treated cloth stretched over the frame, the fleur de lis a symbol of New Orleans' courage, is adorned with aluminum ribbons and LED lights, making it easier to view from both sides. A 6-foot high by 4-foot wide "New Year" board will light up with two hundred 25-watt clear bulbs announcing the official arrival of 2015. See calendar below.
With the 80th Allstate Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Day, New Orleans will come alive with school spirit when college football fans descend on the city. To celebrate the iconic bowl game, the Allstate Fan Fest will be held in the Jax Brewery's parking lot on Decatur Street.
On December 31, join the legendary Dr. John, a six-time Grammy Award-winning musician and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, as he rings in the New Year at Le Petit Theatre. Known throughout the world as the embodiment of New Orleans' musical legacy, Dr. John is a true icon in American culture. His colorful musical career began in the 1950s when, as a studio musician for Cosimo Matassa’s J&M Recording Studio, he wrote and played guitar on some of the greatest records to come out of the Crescent City, including recordings by Professor Longhair, Art Neville, Joe Tex and Frankie Ford.
On New Year's Eve the Algiers Levee is a great place to watch the fireworks over the river. If you haven't had enough holiday cheer yet, there is still time to enjoy the season! At the stroke of midnight,  December 31, revelers will be on the levee to enjoy the fireworks as they ring in 2015. Remember to be there early enough to get a good spot.

If want to see themusic schedules and everything that is going one - please visit my darling friend Frank's Stansbury's  LaFete News 12-30-14
http://myemail.constantcontact.com/LaFete-News-Spotlights-1…



Darlings, save some energy for January 6. It’s a big day in New Orleans. It marks three things: Twelfth Night, The Epiphany, and the beginning of the Carnival Season. Yes, while many people outside of New Orleans believe that Mardi Gras is a one-day event, those of us living here know that it’s an actual season, kind of like Christmas.

  

Among the many parades, I am looking forward to  the 7th Annual St. Joan of Arc parade. It will be St. Joan’s 603rd birthday, so come out and watch the medieval pageantry of a great parade, honoring the Patron Saint of France.  My darling friends Patrick Van Hoorebeek, owner of Patrick’s Bar Vin, 2015 King Charles VII honorary  and Simone Bruni Crouere, owner of Demo Diva, 2015 Queen Yolande Find the parade route map at www.joanofarcparade.org.
Another fun event is this one: The Battle of New Orleans - General Pakenham's Final Supper -January 6, 2015 at the Bourbon Orleans, a proud member of the New Orleans Hotel Collection. Prepared by Chef Joey Wells and special guest appearances by General Pakenham, Period costumes welcomed.  Cocktails in the Courtyard 6:30-7:30 p.m., five-course dinner with wine 7:30-9:30 p.m. To make dinner reservations call 504-571-4672
Have a wonderful week and I will see you next year!      


Crescent City Countdown Club to Welcome in 2015 as Only New Orleans Can!
With another year of generous community support, our spirited city can welcome 2015 with live New Orleans music, a unique fleur de lis drop, and the midnight fireworks display over the Mighty Mississippi River. The celebration begins at the Decatur Street City Stage with a performance by Sam's Funcky Nation from 9:30 to 10:15 p.m. Terrance Simien + the Zydeco Experience will follow at 10:45 to 11:45 p.m. After that time we will count down together to midnight to launch the fleur de lis drop and the fireworks Symphony in the Sky to welcome .

Watch as the 8-foot tall by 5-foot wide two-dimensional fleur de lis descends a 25-foot pole atop Jax Brewery Condominiums to launch the exquisite Symphony in the Sky. Made of plywood with weather-treated cloth stretched over the frame, the fleur de lis a symbol of New Orleans' courage, is adorned with aluminum ribbons and LED lights, making it easier to view from both sides. A 6-foot high by 4-foot wide "New Year" board will light up with two hundred 25-watt clear bulbs announcing the official arrival of the new year

 

Dine in the French Quarter and then join us at the Decatur Street Stage at Jackson Square:
  • Sam's Funky Nation from 9:30 to 10:15 p.m.
  • Terrance Simien + the Zydeco Experience 10:45 to 11:45 p.m.
  • Midnight Countdown, Fleur de lis drop, fireworks over the Mississippi River 11:45 - ? .
For sponsorship and more information about the fireworks show and fleur de lis drop please call (985) 630-4604.

New Year's Eve Fireworks on the Algiers Levee

If you haven't had enough holiday che

er yet​
, there is still time to enjoy the season! At the stroke of midnight
​ 
December 31​
​,
 revelers will be on the
​​
levee to enjoy the fireworks as they ring in 2015. Remember to be there early enough to get a good spot, and keep in mind there are bars nearby if you run out of "spirit"!

First Friday of the Year
Just a day after the black-eyed peas and cabbage are consumed for luck and money,  First Fridays on the Point will kick off 2015 on January 2. Tell your friends from "across the river" to come ove
on the ferry for the fun. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., there will be an art market in the courtyard of Imagine Yoga Studio at 840 Opelousas Ave., where Greg Afek of Twelve Limit will perform. Imagine Yoga will offer chair massages inside the studio. The new Algiers Point Fine Art Gallery across the street at 837-1/2 Opelousas Ave. will also be open with 

works from
 ​
featured artists 
Jono Goodman and Danny DeLancey.​

Throughout the evening, there will be specials at the local bars
​:​
  • $3 mimosas all night  and $3 wine during happy hour at Vine and Dine
  • ​$1 drafts of PBR during happy hour at Old Point Bar and music from Rick Trolsen at 5 p.m. and Johnny Angel and Helldorado at 9:30 p.m.
  • NOLA Brewing Specialty Cask at Crown and Anchor, along with a 70s theme part
    y and​
     karaoke
    ​                
  Wednesday, December 31
Cuban New Year's Eve Celebration at Casa Borrega

We will be hosting a Cuban New Year's eve party this week with two bands:
Los Caballeros del Son 6:30 - 9pm
Alexey Marti Trio 9pm - 1am
We will also have a Cuban menu that night (below).
Cuban New Year’s Eve Menu
Entrees - $16
All come with your choice of two sides
Lechon Asado - Succulent chunks of whole young pig slow cooked in handcrafted wooden oven
Ropa Vieja – Thinly shredded beef seasoned with tomato, garlic and pepper
Arroz con Pollo – Tender chicken stewed with rice in a tomato and red wine sauce
Veggie Plate - $14
Yucca, congri, ensalada and platanos
Sides $7
Platanos Fritos – Sweet fried plantains
Congri – Rice and black beans cooked together with onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin and oregano, served with sliced avocado
Ensalada – Cucumber, radish, tomato and onion tossed with lime, salt and olive oil
Yucca – Tender yucca pieces drizzled with garlic, lemon and olive oil
Accompany your meal with a Mojito or Cuba Libre
Cava available for New Year’s toast
Hope to see you there.
Happy New Year!
Hugo & Linda
Casa Borrega
504-427-0654

PHOTOS FROM LAST WEEK

 The Moscow Ballet's “The Great Russian Nutcracker” at the exquisite Saenger Theater .
Margarita Bergen's photo.
Margarita Bergen's photo.
Margarita Bergen's photo.


Christmas Day at Harry Greenberger and Marshall Harris's residence on Bayou St John


Evening in Bayou St. John

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

A TOAST TO NEW ORLEANS- Wishing you a happy holiday‏


Darlings,

I hope you have been enjoying the holidays as I have. 

Last week, was very special and was filled with  lovely and exciting holiday soirees.

I started my week by attending a lively and delicious Sip and Socialize New Orleans Magazine Hobnobber  at the lovely Broussard's Restaurant on Conti Street. I didn't stay long because I was invited to attend the premiere of the fabulous Broadway production of “Dirty Dancing,” which I enjoyed tremendously at the Saenger Theater.

The following day, it was time for me to host the Royal Sonesta's annual festive Holiday Round Table Luncheon at the elegant Grand Ballroom at noon.  As in the past, cabaret singer Suzaune Yee McKamey, delighted guests with an interactive holiday sing-along accompanied by Jim Walpole on piano. She was joined in her performance by Sheriff Marlin Gusman and many distinguished members of police and FBI. Chanteuse AnaĆÆs St. John reprised a song from her popular Donna Summer “Last Dance” tribute show at the Marigny Theatre on December 26 and 27.  Jim Walpole also was joined before the Luncheon by The Sunshine Sisters. Local author Bonnie Warren and photographer Cheryl Gerber presented their new book, “New Orleans Homes at Christmas.” Judging from the comments- everyone had a great, festive time.
The next Round Table Luncheon has been scheduled for Wednesday, January 28 at noon - so SAVE THE DATE
 Enjoy the link below


PHOTO OF PERFORMERS AT THE FESTIVE HOLIDAY ROUND TABLE LUNCHEON
That evening, I stopped briefly at the Opera on Tap's Annual Holiday Party at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in the French Quarter (Bourbon and Toulouse streets).

On Thursday, I attended the annual New Orleans Chamber of Commerce Networking night at the New Orleans Convention Center. While there I was invited by my darling friend, Diane Lyons, to visit the NOLA Christmas Fest.

Every day, I have tried to share a beautiful tree with my friends on Facebook, but when I visited the Convention Center where the delightful indoor NOLA Christmas Fest is taking place, I felt like a kid in a toy store. There were more exquisitely decorated trees and gingerbread houses than I could count. I hope you will enjoy this visual holiday explosion and come by to experience this holiday treat that will be happening until December 24.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152403868450870.1073742390.581200869&type=1&l=eab2cb2198

On TThursday, it was time for me to attend the always fun Tales of the Toddy where the greatest New Orleans mixologists were competing for the titles of the best Toddy. I had a great time and loved the decadent libations. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152414463065870.1073742392.581200869&type=1&l=32ffe3fbff

That night I was also invited to a private party at Chris Owens where Jalisco Mariachi was entertaining. It was so much fun but when I returned half hour later my car was being towed and impounded. I spent most of my night at the New Orleans City Jail because my phone died and I could not get anyone to help me. That is a chapter of my life that I need to share with you in another chapter or email. As a woman I felt that I wasn’t treated with the  respect and dignity that I deserve. The policeman who arrested me felt so intimidated that he put me in handcuffs and took me to jail.

After that incident all I wanted to do was work and prepare for my upcoming Fiesta Navidena at Casell-Bergen Gallery at 1305 Decatur St. It was well-attended and the entertainment by the Julio and Cesar Trio kept everyone dancing as well as the bubbly, the delicious Latin cuisine made a very memorable night.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.816222791767589.1073741862.620512221338648&type=1&l=9104e0b3bc

I was so disappointed by the last game of the Saints. All our hopes for the playoffs blew away. 
I ended my week last night at the fabulous "NOCCA Home for the Holiday." Dr. Steve Price always puts an incredible show that is so New Orleans. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152414400945870.1073742391.581200869&type=1&l=b1e5cd57e8

This week is going to be another great week in which we are going to enjoy celebrating with our loved ones. So I am wishing all of you a Merry Christmas.

On December 27, I am looking forward to the Moscow Ballet's “Great Russian Nutcracker” at the Saenger Theater. 
I do want to mention that I just learned about the death of a old -time friend - Dale Rathle- Funeral arrangements will be after the holidays. he will be missed. 

Have a wonderful, peaceful and healthy Holiday!
 i enlisted the help of La Fete News to put together the highlights listed below - so if you want  THE ENTIRE SCHEDULE VISIT to Lafete News 12-22-14
http://myemail.constantcontact.com/LaFete-News-Spotlights-1…

December 23


   
Lightwire: A Very Electric Christmas
Tues., Dec. 23 | 3pm & 7:30pm
Joy Theater
Lightwire Theater returns home for two performances at 3pm and 7:30pm. The globe trotting troupe of dancing electroluminescent puppeteers are returning with their newest original production, "A Very Electric Christmas." Audiences of all ages will watch in wonderment as captivating new characters pursue a holiday journey of inspiration and light, all set to Christmas classics, including songs from Nat King Cole, Tchaikovsky, and Mariah Carey.


12-23-14
  
Historic 19th-Century Holiday Decorations Exhibit December 18-January 6, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 10am-2pm (tours on the hour); Saturday, 12pm-3pm (tours on the hour), Wednesday, group tours by appointment only Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses820 Saint Louis Street and 1132 Royal Street (504) 274-0746 View Event Website Non-Cooking Day $12, Cooking Day $15; Members: Free
Step back in time and learn the holiday celebrations of three Creole families in 19th-century New Orleans in the beautiful Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses. Guided tours of these two meticulously decorated homes will include information about Reveillon, New Year's celebrations, and Twelfth Night events common in Old NewOrleans. Please see website for holiday schedule and closures. - See more at: https://holiday.neworleansonline.com/events/historic-19th-century-holiday-decorations-exhibit-2/#sthash.bdY7CJcy.dpuf


Holiday Home and Courtyard Tours of the Williams Residence
Dec. 23, 2014-Jan. 4, 2015
The Historic New Orleans Collection, 533 Royal St.
The two-story brick townhouse, built in 1889 and restored in the 1940s, was owned by THNOC's  founders General L. Kemper and Leila Williams.

Holiday Home and Courtyard Tours
Just in time for the holiday season, The Historic New Orleans collection is pleased to once again offer the Holiday Home Tour of the Williams Residence.
The two-story brick townhouse, built in 1889 and restored in the 1940s, was owned by THNOC's founders General L. Kemper and Leila Williams. Filled with antiques and other objects d'art collected by the couple in their wide travels, the house was occupied by Williamses from 1946 through 1963.
From December 5 through January 4, visitors to the residence will explore how the Williamses celebrated Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve, including parties on their farm in Patterson, Louisiana and Sugar Bowl celebrations on New Year's Day.  In keeping with the Williams' tradition of fresh greenery, the residence will feature a beautifully decorated tree with vintage ornaments and large boughs of fresh foliage, as well as photos of their holiday parties.
In addition, tour guides will relate stories of New Orleans holiday traditions and some of their personal favorites.
Holiday Home and Courtyard Tours
December 23, 2014-January 4, 2015
Tours begin promptly at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday and at 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., Sunday.
Admission is $5, free for THNOC members. 
No tours will be offered while THNOC is closed December 24-25 and December 31-January 
TRINITY ARTIST SERIES  presents 
Sunday, December 28 @ 5 pm: New Orleans Trombone Choir directed by John Risey. Christmas Music and Jazz favorites. 

Tuesday, December 30 @ 6 pm: "Organ and Labyrinth" and Candlelight with Albinas Prizgintas on the 5000 pipe tracker organ.From Classical Baroque to Vintage Rock and Popular Tunes. Please visit: 
www.albinas.org

The Victory Belles Ring in the Holidays
December 22 - December 28, 2014
Our popular, charming vocal trio is in a holiday mood! Come jingle all the way as the Victory Belles (and a special guest!) take you to a nostalgic Winter Wonderland of vintage musical classics. We'll celebrate the season with such delights as I'll Be Home for Christmas, Santa Baby, Jingle Bells, I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm, White Christmas, and a stocking-full more. The songs, the style, the spirit of the holidays - it's The National WWII Museum's present to you! 
  

Christmas Eve ”Bonfire Adventure”

December 24
Gray Line New Orleans
Departs from Toulouse Street Dock
(504) 569-1401
Call for pricing and reservations
Celebrate the time-honored Louisiana tradition of touring the community-built bonfires that light the way for Papa Noƫl, the Cajun Santa Claus. This adventure features a police escorted tour to the bonfires and a San Francisco Plantation tour and Cajun Country dinner. Some walking is necessary. Advance reservations required. Book early.
- See more at: https://holiday.neworleansonline.com/events/christmas-eve-bonfire-adventure-2/#sthash.ZUmNNxTb.dpuf

Cathedral Christmas Masses

December 24 and 25
St. Louis Cathedral
(504) 525-9585
December 24 – Vigil Mass at 5:00PMMidnight Mass 
Doors open at 11:15pm 
Prelude Music from 11:30pm 
Mass begins at Midnight
December 25 – Masses at 9am and 11am
- See more at: https://holiday.neworleansonline.com/events/cathedral-christmas-masses-2/#sthash.llCaNO27.dpuf

Christmas Day ”Jingling through the Crescent”

December 25, 10am-12:30pm
Gray Line New Orleans
Departs New Orleans Marriott Hotel, 
555 Canal Street

(504) 569-1401
View Event Website

Call for pricing and reservations
This holiday treat is a fully narrated tour of New Orleans in its holiday dress! This comfortable Gray Line motor coach tour covers the French Quarter, Esplanade Avenue, City Park, St. Charles Avenue, and the elegant Garden District. Advance reservations required - call early and jingle along!
- See more at: https://holiday.neworleansonline.com/events/christmas-day-jingling-through-the-crescent-2/#sthash.5bA9n9K1.dpuf

DECEMBER 26-27 
ANAIS ST. JOHN


I wanted to encourage anyone interested in going to my Donna Summer Tribute Show to reserve your tickets. 
Don't miss this high- energy dance party featuring a 7 piece band, 3 backup vocalists, and 2 dancers that will take you back to a time when Disco Reigned Supreme,  and Donna Summer was the Queen!  Featuring her hit songs, "Bad Girls, Hot Stuff,  Last Dance, MacArthur Park,  She Works Hard For The Money,  and many more!!!
When:
Friday, December 26th 8pm
Saturday,  December 27th 8pm
Where: 
The Marigny Theatre

 
The Marigny Theatre (View)
1030 Marigny St.
New Orleans, LA 70117

 

Last Dance - A Tribute to Donna Summer
AnaĆÆs St. John presents, "Last Dance...A Tribute to Donna Summer."

This spectacular show played to sold out audiences back in August and is not returning for a special 2 night only engagement.  Purchasing advance tickets is STRONGLY recommended as this show is sure to sell out.

This high energy dance show will take you back to the days when Disco reigned supreme and Donna Summer was the Queen. 

Performances are December 26 and 27 at 8:00 pm

Tickets are $30 for VIP seating and $25 for general admission dance floor. They can be reserved by calling(504) 758-5590 or visiting www.brownpapertickets.com
and searching Last Dance. 




December 27

Moscow Ballet’s award-winning dancers bring the holiday season to life in New Orleans, LA!


altMoscow Ballet’s acclaimed Great Russian Nutcracker will be at Saenger Theatre on Saturday, December 27th at 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Exclusive to the Great Russian Nutcracker is the stunning Dove of Peace, with 20ft wingspan, and created by 2 dancers moving as one; Russian folk legends Father Christmas/Ded Moroz and Snow Maiden/Snegurochka who escort Masha and Nutcracker Prince to the Land of Peace and Harmony; life-sized Matrushka Dolls; and whimsical 10ft tall silk puppets. New in 2014 is an authentic Russian Christmas puppet play and Masha’s magical Toy Cabinet. Wearing intricately detailed costumes, many with shimmering Swarovski crystals, the award-winning principal dancers and corps de ballet bring Tchaikovsky’s master score and the holiday season to life!
Groups of ten or more and Girl Scout troops receive discounts; call 800-320-1733. For VIP and single tickets call Ticketmaster 800-345-7000 or go to www.nutcracker.com/buy-tickets
 
PHOTOS FROM LAST WEEK
New Orleans magazine's hobnobbing and I had a ball.
Like ·  · Share


Dirty Dancing" at The Saenger Theatre . I enjoyed it so much. The cast was super - the lead actor Samuel Pergande was excellent. I was tented to go backstage to meet him but I refrained myself.It is amazing that as we grow older we still like the same thing we like 40 years ago!
Royal Sonesta New Orleans' Round Table Luncheon, featuring a program full of lively
entertainment and a festive menu with plenty of champagne, darlings.
 —
Like ·  · Share
The lovely Opera on Tap's Annual Holiday Party at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in the French Quarter (Bourbon and Toulouse streets).


My darling friend Diane Lyons , who is responsible along with her staff of putting together NOLA Christmas Fest sent me this lovely photo of Bob Johnson, President and CEO of the Convention Center with Diane and me .
— with Diane Lyons.

New Orleans Chamber of Commerce 's networking night at the New Orleans Convention Center and saw many of my friends.
 — with Diane Lyons.
Like ·  · Share
wonderful view of Nola Christmas Fest!
Margarita Bergen added 28 new photos to the album NOLA Christmas Fest.
Good morning darlings, everyday, I have tried to share a beautiful tree but las


On Thursday, I enjoyed so much the The Most Spirited Holiday Party of the Season- Tales of the Toddy® returned to celebrate the holidays spirits at the House of Blues
 — 
Like ·  · Share

My darling friends Chris Owens knows how to throw a Holiday Soiree where the Mariachi is playing and the champagne is flowing.
Like ·  · Share

Here is a link by the Royal Sonesta about the festive Round Table Luncheon - https://www.facebook.com/media/set/…
Royal Sonesta added 38 new photos to the album Round Table Luncheon December 
Margarita Bergen's photo.