Tuesday, February 11, 2014

A TOAST TO NEW ORLEANS and Happy Valentine's Day‏

Darlings,

I hope you are enjoying watching the spectacular 2014 Winter  Olympics out of Sochi, Russia.

Thank God, that Mother Nature has blessed us with a few days of warmer temperatures so we can enjoy our Carnival 2014 and the activities associated with it.

Unfortunately, I still haven't found any place to move Casell-Bergen Galleries in the French Quarter. It seems that the landlords have no respect for established local businesses and prefer to rent to out-of-town corporations at astronomical prices. I am confident that God will help me find a location as soon as possible before I am evicted.  KEEP PRAYING FOR ME! And, once again I ask, if any of you who are reading this know about or hear about an available location at a reasonable price in the Quarter, please PLEASE(!) let me know.
WE ARE HAVING A BIG MOVING SALE 

Fortunately, in spite of my business problem, the social life still goes on and I keep it to a minimum. But, the social soirees that I DID attend, were fun, fun, FUN!

The first fun event I had the opportunity to toast was the 2nd Annual Patina Shoe Parlor Creative Showcase (8 photos)

Patina Shoe Parlor celebrated its second year of service to New Orleans and its 2nd Annual Creative Showcase at the Chicory, 610 South Peters Street. The event benefited the New Orleans Opera Association and  showcased  local individuals and establishments, emphasizing art, culture, lifestyle and fashion in NOLA. The artists represented included 2014 New Orleans Jazz Festival poster artist Terrance Osborne, Ray Farthering, Eslie Taylor, Princess Parachute, Sean Self , Duane D. Conrad and more. Complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres were served. Stellar entertainment was provided by theJimmy Maxwell Orchestra with vocalist Julie Jules, Baritone Ivan Griffin, T-Ray the Violinist, Cari Roy and more. The lovely, fun evening concluded with a fashion show. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151830809330870.1073742176.581200869&type=1&l=6767399904

On Wednesday, I attended a Press Conference for 2014 French Quarter Festival -The French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron!  ANNOUNCED: 2014 FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL LINEUP that will include beloved Dr. John sponsored by Tropical Island. \ The largest FREE music festival in the South will feature over 800 local musicians, more than 65 of  New Orleans finest restaurants, free special events, and family fun with two exciting kid's areas. This year, the official poster was done by artist Varion Laurent, a lifelong resident of New Orleans, pays homage to Grammy award-winning Dr. John, who returns this year to French Quarter Festival for the first time since 1987. In this striking painting, bold colors capture the energy of the French Quarter, a perfect backdrop for Dr. John's charismatic persona. Of course, Casell - Bergen gallery will have both the French Quarter 2014 and the New Orleans Jazz Festival posters.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151831715030870.1073742177.581200869&type=1&l=9df0e59779




On Friday, I was invited by a Los Angeles based film crew to showcase the social scene at Galatoire's on a Friday afternoon. I was joined by talented chanteuseAnais St John.  Of course, I do not have to tell you how much fun it was, as well as delicious. Sorry, but after luncheon at Galatoire's and the temperature being so cold, I was ready to snuggle with my darling Chiquita Linda and I spent it happily watching the magnificent opening of the Winter Olympics. 

On Saturday night, I was ready to face the social world and, being Carnival Time in the Big Easy, what better place that to attend the Krewe of Tucks Costume Ball at the Marriott.  I was the guest of my darling friend Sheri Michelle Bleuler McKee who was a maid again. This was the first time that attended this ball so I did not know what to expect. Everyone there was having a great time in their creative costumes while entertained by the Weathered Bar. There was an open bar and big delicious dinner buffet. I did not stay for the presentation since I was invited to another party. What else is new? https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151837730150870.1073742179.581200869&type=1&l=5858fadf03

The magical Carnival evening continued across the Mississippi River at Blaine Kern's Jr. Mardi Gras World. The lovely, elegant soiree was hosted by Tammy and Blaine Kern Jr. in honor of their daughter Alexandra Kern, this year’s Queen of Endymion. Her King is Ryan Swankhardt. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151837775075870.1073742180.581200869&type=1&l=137e22144e

This Wednesday, February 12, there is a very special dinner  at Degas House and a Mediterranean Lifestyle Tasting  : 

Degas House, 2306 Esplanade Avenue is hosting a very special dinner: 
Enjoy a dining experience like no other! Chef Jacob Cureton will interpret Lafcadio Hearn's Creole Cookbook (published in 1885), served in the Degas House Grand Parlors on February 12. This was the first Creole cookbook ever written and features a collection of Creole foods of the 1870s and '80s from leading New Orleans chefs of the day, as well as from Creole housewives. Sample the same foods Edgar Degas enjoyed when he stayed with is maternal family, the Mussons, in 1872-1873.

That night my darling friend, Dr. James Moises is teaming up with Vom Fass, to host a Mediterranean Lifestyle Tasting. Vom Fass, the premier vinegar, oil and spirit shop located at 5725 Magazine Street, will host a Mediterranean Lifestyle Tasting on Wednesday, February 12 from 6-7:30 p.m. (see more details in the calendar). 

This upcoming weekend  is going to be a busy one since it  includes the Valentine Day weekend and the always  fun 2014 New  Orleans Go Red for Women Luncheon at the Sheraton. I am supposed to be one of the models so I am looking forward to it.  The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women is the world's largest network of women standing together to save women's lives from heart disease. Millions of women have united to raise their voices about their No. 1 killer. With your help, many more lives can be saved. Attend the New Orleans Go Red for Women Luncheon. At 10 a.m. is the sponsor booths, Survivor Casting Call and "purse"analities Auction. At 11:30 a.m. the Luncheon, Passion Speakers and Fashion Strut begins. Please wear RED!
That evening, The Mexican Consulate and the Universad Autonoma Metropolitana  Azcapotzalco are presenting an art exhibit of the well-known illustratorFabricio Vanden Broeck - " El Ultima Apaga La Luz"( Last one turn off the Light. ) The wine reception will at 6 p.m. at 901 Convention Center- Suite 118. 


On the evening of Valentine's Day, Friday the 14th, New Orleans Opera Association invites you to a “Sweets Celebration” of love after the opera performance of  “Cendrillon,” the French version of “Cinderella.” This special post-performance party on the Main Balcony of the Mahalia Jackson Theater is a benefit for the Opera Association’s Youth Education Programs. Come meet Cinderella and Prince Charming and enjoy champagne, strawberries, and desserts to carry you into the rest of the romance of the evening (see more details in the calendar below).

Darlings have a great week and please save Wednesday, February 19 for the monthly Royal Sonesta's Round Table Luncheon.

The Round Table Luncheon will salute Mardi Gras 2014 at noon at the Fleur de Lis Suite of the Royal Sonesta Hotel. The entertainment will be by comedian/actress Becky Allen, Al "Carnival Time" Johnson and talented Jim Walpole on the piano. The confirmed guest speakers are Entertainer/Entrepreneur Carl Mack; Julie Lea, Captain of the new Krewe of Nyx; Mary Katherine Lonatro-Tusa, former Captain of Krewe of Shangri-La; and Chad Crespo with Krewe of Barkus.  The luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door. Parking in the Royal Sonesta garage will be validated. For reservations call Noel Scallan at 504-553-2220 or email her at nscallan@sonesta.com.


 Tuesday, February 11
  • KINGS and QUEENS REGALIA King Cake Soiree

Phunny Phorty Phellows BOSS Steve Servay and QUEEN Pat Jolly invite you to our KINGS and QUEENS REGALIA.
Faithful Subjects\Come adorned in your finest Crowns, Tiaras & Royal Scepters! For a Carnival Celebration with King Cakes, Music & Merry Making at the Columns Hotel,3811 St Charles Avenue La Nouvelle Orléans 
6:30pm- GUITARMONY-featuring John Rankin, Todd Duke & Phil deGruy- performing 8pm till 11pm -* No Cover * Cash Bar *
Wednesday, February 12 
VOM FASS and LOCAL WINEMAKER JAMES MOISES TEAM UP TO HOST MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE CLASS

   VOM FASS, the premier vinegar, oil and spirit shop located at 5725 Magazine Street, will host a Mediterranean Lifestyle Tasting on Wednesday, February 12 from 6-7:30 pm featuring local physician/winemaker James Moises.  The event will showcase four fine wines paired with four healthy small plate dishes featuring VOM FASS vinegar and oils. Additionally, Dr. Moises will discuss the health benefits of wine and the Mediterranean diet. Cost to attend is $25 per person and reservations in advanced are required by calling, 504-302-1455.  


Wednesday, February 12
Dinner with Degas
Degas House, 2306 Esplanade Avenue is hosting a very special dinner: 
Enjoy a dining experience like no other! Chef Jacob Cureton will interpret Lafcadio Hearn's Creole Cookbook (published in 1885), served in the Degas House Grand Parlors on February 12. This was the first Creole cookbook ever written and features a collection of Creole foods of the 1870s and '80s from leading New Orleans chefs of the day, as well as from Creole housewives. Sample the same foods Edgar Degas enjoyed when he stayed with is maternal family, the Mussons, in 1872-1873.  6:30 PM to 10:00 PM  Tickets are $78/person and must be purchased in advance and by phone only. For menu and more information, call 504-821-5009 or visit: Dinner with Degas Information 

Thursday, February 13

New Orleans Go Red Luncheon

GSA-JET_2011NewGRLogo
Sheraton New Orleans
500 Canal Street
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70130
Link to Map

When:

Starts:Thu, 13 Feb 2014 10:30:00 AM
Ends:Thu, 13 Feb 2014 1:00:00 PM

For more info please contact:  Timekia Mallery  ~  timekia.mallery@heart.org  ~  770-612-6195


GSA-GRFW_placesettingTogether the women of Go Red can bring a voice to this silent killer to help save lives. We can listen to what our hearts are telling us, talk to our doctors, and spread the word to our friends and community about making the right choices and taking action.

Go Red For Women needs you to shatter the silence by choosing to Speak Up about heart disease. Be part of the movement, make choices, speak up and spread the word. By sharing this commitment with Go Red For Women, together we can help save lives. Be a part of this extraordinary day.
 
Click the button below to visit the Go Red Luncheon web page. 
 
GSA-GR-HB_FindOutMore Button

Open Your Heart
Open Your Heart is an opportunity in the Go Red for Women Luncheon where you can speak up by making a lifesaving GSA-GRFW_Natl-ladiesdonation. Chances are you know a woman, man or child who has suffered from heart disease. Your donation honors these survivors, but also those who did not. Make a difference with a donation to fund the programs and research that will make a healthy future for women a reality. 
Circle of Red
The Circle of Red is a very special group of women who contribute significant resources and influence in support of the cause. Their involvement is crucial in driving local support to fund life saving research and to educate women. The Circle of Red is like a grassroots sisterhood, made up of amazing women who advocate for women's health and are determined to save lives. Choose to become a part of the Circle of Red today and your commitment, support and influence will make a tremendous impact in the lives of many women.

Click the “Find out more about the Event” button above to find out more about Open Your Heart and Circle of Red.  Together we can conquer heart disease.
Thursday, February 13
Opening Reception of Fabricio Vanden Broeck's - El Ultimo Apaga La Luz

The Mexican Consulate and the Universad Autonoma Metropolitana  Azcapotzalco are presenting an art exhibit of the well-known illustrator Fabricio Vanden Broeck - " El Ultima Apaga La Luz"( Last one turn off the Light. ) The wine reception will at 6 p.m. at 901 Convention Center- Suite 118. 


 
Local Artists to Compete in Live Painting Event at Tiki Tolteca

New Orleans- New Orleans artists will battle it out in a contest like no other...The Art Battle at Tiki Tolteca! Join six New Orleans up and coming artists for an exciting night of food, fun, music and art.

The Art Battle will take place Thursday, February 13th from 8pm-11pm at Felipe's tiki bar, Tiki Tolteca, located upstairs at Felipe's French Quarter (301 N. Peters Street). The artsy spectacular will showcase live competitive paintings from artists: TJ Black, Alex Harvie, Emily Lovejoy, Jill Mulkey, Jade Brady, and Marc Fresh. 

The artists will have a three hour limit to paint their specially-themed masterpiece. As the artists are painting, onlookers can watch and bid on their favorite paintings. The winning artist will be chosen from the highest bid and will receive a one of a kind trophy, along with some well earned bragging rights.

Felipe's Tiki Tolteca bar, located on the second floor of Felipe's French Quarter at 301 N. Peters St. 
 mixes traditional tiki drink with Felipe's already Latin American flavors and energy. Tiki Tolteca is open Wednesday through Monday. (Weekdays from 5pm - till and Fridays and Saturdays from 5pm - 3am).





Emoji                               Emoji Emoji                   Emoji         HAPPY VALENTINE'S  DAY !
  

Basic Logo
VALENTINE'S DAY WEEKEND!
Cinderella
Friday, February 14, 8:00 PM / Sunday, February 16, 2:30 PM
Watch and learn
 


Cinderella (Judith Gauthier) and Prince Charming (Marie Lenormand) discuss their careers and the roles they are singing in the upcoming production of Cinderella




Conductor Robert Lyall and director Jose Maria Condemi discuss the upcoming production of Cinderella.
Art's Chat with Rebecca Ringle
Executive Director Todd Simmons talks to "Wicked Step-Sister" Rebecca Ringle about her role as Dorothée in Cinderella.  Listen
Join us after Cinderella on Valentine's Night
We invite you to a sweets celebration of love after the performance of Cinderella Friday, February 14 on the main balcony of the theater. Learn More
BUY TICKETS



February 14 
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2-14-14
    
 Cinderella Batistella
               
                February 9 - 16, 2014
                Written by David Cuthbert and Bob Bruce
                Directed by Ricky Graham

                The story is told by Mother LeRoux , a reader and advisor, who stirs a big moss-hung cauldron of              Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo and offers teach-yourself videos for sale via her toll-free number.

                We flash back to the 1950s.  Cinderella Batistella lives "over in the Marigny."  She suffers the      verbal slings and arrows of her cruel stepmother, Evangeline DeLaParish Batistella and her catty daughters, Feliciana and Tangipahoa "Cinderella Batistella, gonna lock her in the cella' -- if she              gives us any static, gonna lock her in the attic!"

                Mother LeRoux takes the ferry from Algiers, bringing Cinderella a ball gown to wear. She             transforms Buster Crab and Berl Crawfish into attendants. In any case, Cinderella drives off to         the Twelfth Night Ball in a snazzy convertible. There, she wins the heart of Harvey Canale Jr., son                of Harvey Canale Sr., The King Cake King.

                All this takes place in a mood of beguiling silliness buoyed by a dozen of the late Freddie               Palmisano's cheerful tunes. The lyrics are witty without being forced, as in "Mother's Slightly              Tarnished Golden Rule."  Kids are bound to love this lighthearted romp with its heavy dash of        local spices!

The complete schedule of performances is as follows:

Fridays & Saturdays      February 14 & 15 at 7:30 pm
Sundays                                      February  16 at 2:00 pm


Cinderella Batistella ticket prices are $16.50 per person (tax included)    
Corporate and individual sponsorships, season tickets, group and military discounts are available as well.  To purchase, please call the Box Office: (504) 461-9475 or (504) 468-7221 or visit www.RivertownTheaters.com 
               
                Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts is located at 325 Minor St. in the heart of     Rivertown, Kenner LA.  Plenty of free parking is on the streets around the theater.
MEDIA CONTACT: 
Cary Alden, 504-834-7517,  504-914-7517 (mobile)
caldenpr@cox.net 
Sunday, February 16 
Trinity Artist Series presents 
@ 5 pm:-The Reunion of The Moses Hogan Singers.

The Moses Hogan Singers are some of today's most talented and accomplished musicians 
who continue to excel in their individual careers and professions. 
1329 Jackson Ave. New Orleans - Contact: (504) 670 2520


It’s Carnival Time at the
Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon
Wednesday February 19th at Noon
New Orleans, Louisiana (February 4, 2014) –Get ready, we’re celebrating all things purple, green and gold at the Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon on Wednesday February 19th at 12 Noon. Hosted by social columnist Margarita Bergen in the hotel’s elegant Fleur de Lis Suite, this month’s featured speakers will disclose the latest Mardi Gras happenings complete with insider’s tips. Join us as we toast the arrival of the Carnival season in the Big Easy with plenty of champagne darlings.
Founder and Captain Julie Lea of the Mystic Krewe of Nyx will discuss the path towards launching New Orleans’ newest all-female parade that rolls down St. Charles Avenue on Wednesday February 26th at 7 pm.
Chad Crespo, Vice President of the Mystic Krewe of Barkus, will provide a glimpse at this year’s canine-friendly parade themed “Dogzilla – Barkus Licks the Crescent City.” Learn why this zany parade is one of the city’s most beloved Mardi Gras spectacles that winds through French Quarter streets on Sunday February 23rd at 2 pm.
Carl Mack, performer and creative guru, will share his extensive knowledge about the city’s gay carnival scene including a peek inside this year’s ball themes, must see special events and ideas for creative costuming that everyone can embrace.
Finally, the former captain of the all women’s Krewe of Shangri-La Mary Katherine Lonatro, will discuss her experience as the longest continuous Mardi Gras Krewe captain with a tenure that spanned over 35 years.
Because a Mardi Gras celebration just isn't complete without entertainment, we’ll have seasoned New Orleans actress and performer Becky Allen on the program for another unforgettable show that you’ll be talking about for weeks. By special invitation, we are also featuring Mr. Al “Carnival Time” Johnson who will have everyone breaking into their very own Mardi Gras Mambo. The Royal Sonesta’s Round Table resident pianist Jim Walpole will be holding court and tinkling the ivories for another memorable afternoon of merriment at the Royal Sonesta Hotel.
Executive Sous Chef Scott Nesbitt will present an elegant three-course menu that includes a Tasso, White Cheddar and Ale Soup with Caramelized Onions and Fried Fennel. The Entrée Duet features Achiote Marinated Rack of Lamb with Pasilla Pepper Coulis, accompanied with Crispy Fried Smoked Pharaoh Quail with Bourbon Spiked Date Preserves and Green Tomato Piccalilli, Wilted Escarole and Chickpea Ragout, and Bone Marrow Infused Jasmine Rice Grits. For dessert, enjoy Executive Pastry Chef Solandie Exantus’ sweet creation, Onyx Dark Chocolate Spice Bread Pudding with Caramelized Blood Orange and Slaw. Culinary perfection awaits!
The Royal Sonesta Hotel’s Round Table Luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door. Parking will be validated. For reservations, please contact Noel Scallan at 504-553-2220 or nscallan@sonesta.com.

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