Wednesday, July 9, 2014

A Toast to New Orleans - Running of the Bulls- Bastille Day's Celebration and Round Table Luncheon


Darlings,
I hope you enjoyed the long 4th of July weekend and the patriotic, exciting celebrations associated with it. As a naturalized citizen, I feel blessed and grateful to America for the many opportunities that it has bestowed upon me to be who I am. GOD BLESS AMERICA! 

I was kept busy at Casell-Bergen gallery with all the visitors in town for the Essence Festival. Even though I did not get a chance to attend the workshops and the musical entertainment, I did attend the lovely reception hosted by Mayor Mitch Landrieu at Gallier Hall, welcoming the Essence Festival. Mayor Mitch Landrieu's 2014 Essence Festival Reception (16 photos)
Margarita Bergen's photo.
Margarita Bergen's photo.
Margarita Bergen's photo.

I also must confess that I have caught the 2014 World Cup Fever and have been glued to the computer at work and the TV at home following the games. 

On July 4th, I hosted a typical American BBQ, followed by a little soiree at Casell-Bergen Gallery. After my fiesta I stopped by the annualBrian Sands' 4th of July Bash where I go to see the patriotic fireworks.
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 Brian Sands'4th of July Bash where we go to see the patriotic fireworks. —
This upcoming week is going to be a very hectic one, but of course, you’ve read that before. This weekend we are going to be featuring the the 8th Annual Running of the Bulls at San Fermin en Nueva Orleans (SFNO). It is the city's most incredible Summer Spectacle and will start Thursday evening, July 10 with a Wine Dinner: a gourmet, multi-course meal paired with fine wine, and it will culminate on Saturday with the Running of the Bulls. (Complete schedule at the calendar.) 

I am planning to attend several soirees today that will include the French Quarter Business Association's 4th Annual Membership Event at Latrobe's.

Wednesday is going to be an extremely busy night. The Consulate of Mexico in New Orleans is inviting everyone to the Opening Reception of the photographic exhibition by Charles Lovell -"Mexico, te quiero" 25 years of photography on Wednesday,J uly 9, at 6 p.m. at the Art Gallery of the Consulate, 901 Convention Center Blvd. Suite 118 (Gallery entrance through Andrew Higgins Street).

"Viva la France!" Bon Operatit! celebrates Bastille Day with a FREE concert! Featuring music from Carmen, Les pêcheurs de perles (The Pearl Fishers), Samson et Dalila and other operas written by French composers. This week will include guest soprano, Kathleen Halm, accompanied by her husband, Timothy Todd Simmons of New Orleans Opera on the piano from 7:00-9:00 p.m.at the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter. Valet parking is available for just $5.

The Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint is proud to announce A.J. Croce performing this Wednesday July 9 at 8:00 p.m. Join the fun for the early show! For more detailed info, read the Offbeat article about A.J. Croce’s stop in New Orleans this week:


Saturday is another busy day, No only we will be celebrating the Running of the Bulls but also Bastille Day. For the third year, New Orleans’ Bastille Day weekend’s main event is Bastille Day Fête: a free, public festival taking place this year at the revitalized Spanish Plaza at the Riverwalk. Catch a Mississippi River breeze while feasting on delicious French food from local restaurants and dancing to the sound of live music. This year’s lineup will feature exceptional local artists and francophone acts.

I am going to be one of the judges along with Dean Howard ,Jackie Shreves and Nell Nolan at the annual French Dog Contest, one of the highlights of Bastille Day New Orleans. Dress up your pup! All French dogs or dogs dressed in French-style are welcome to compete. (See all the details at the calendar below). Proceeds benefit the Louisiana SPCA!

Casa Argentina commemorates the 198th Anniversary of Argentina’s independence with a dinner, tango show and dance on Saturday July 12, New Orleans Downtown Marriott’s Blaine Kern Ballroom, 859 Convention Center Boulevard.

On Sunday, July 13, Trinity Artist Series is inviting everyone to come to enjoy "Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité" the spirit of Bastille Day celebrated by French saxophonist/pianist/singer Pascal Valcasara, organist/pianist Albinas Prizgintas, soprano Maria Elise Thomas, mezzo-soprano Elizabeth Evans, cellists Jean & Sarah Montes and flutist Donivan Hill at 5 p.m., Trinity Church, 1329 Jackson Avenue, New Orleans.

And, in case you missed it the first three or four times (or saw it before and loved it and want to see it again!) “Jump, Jive and Wail” returns to the Stage Door Canteen at the National World War II Museum this Saturday, July 12 and runs through July 27. This loving tribute to the songs of New Orleans native son Louis Prima will feature a 10-piece band headlined by pianist/vocalist Tom Hook and talented vocalistCristina Perez, singing in the duets Prima sang with his wives Keely Smith and Gia Maione.

During this 90-minute musical extravaganza, you’ll be treated to such Prima classics as “Jump, Jive and Wail,” “Just a Gigolo,” “Che Le Luna,” “Sunday Kind of Love,” “That Old Black Magic” and the power-packed closer, “Sing Sing Sing.” Swing dancers and the horn section will second-line through the crowd to “When the Saints Go Marching In.” How much better does it get than that? You don’t want to miss this show. Call for reservations at (504) 528-1943 or visit their website at www.stagedoorcanteen.org. Brunch or dinner cooked up by the one and only renowned Chef John Besh before all shows optional, at extra cost.

On Monday, is Bastille's Day and have been  invited by the Hon. Jean-Claude Brunet, Consul of France to his formal celebration. Unfortunately, Hon. Monsieur Consul and his lovely wife Muriel will be leaving us shortly so he could go to another post. 
 Darlings, Please put in your calendar -  Wednesday July 16th at 12 Noon- I am really exited since we are going to be joined by George Sandeman of Sanderman Port as our featured Brand Ambassador 
All Hail the Cocktail at the Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon
We’re getting into the spirit for the 12th Annual Tales of the Cocktail when the art of a good cocktail reigns over the Big Easy. On Wednesday July 16th at 12 Noon, the Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon will shake it up when talented mixologists and industry professionals share a peek inside the world’s premier event Tales of the Cocktail. Hosted by  yours truly  in the hotel’s elegant Acadia Suite, the popular luncheon promises lively discussion, delicious cuisine, and flowing champagne with plenty of surprises!
Founder and Executive Director of Tales of the Cocktail, Mrs. Cocktail herself Ann Tuennerman will kick things off by divulging insider news on this year’s programming.
As head bartender for the historic Carousel Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone, the talented Marvin Allen will discuss his personal cocktail philosophy and his new book Magic in a Shaker: A Year of Spirited Libations. Allen will top things off with a demonstration of various bar tools and share tips on how to set up your own home bar.
Then Elizabeth WilliamsNew Orleans native and President of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, will share SoFAB’s mission of discovering, understanding and celebrating the food, drink and unique culture of the South.
For entertainment, guests will enjoy a live performance from the incomparable bass-baritone vocalisIvan Griffin who will be accompanied by Round Table resident pianist Jim Walpole.
Our expert culinary team has prepared an elegant three-course spread just for the occasion. The array of starters include an amuse bouche of Spiced Honeydew Melon with Campari Froth, then a Bunderfleisch and Grana Padano Cheese Soufflé with Brick Dough Pastry, George Dickel Whiskey Bell Pepper Coulis, and finally a Champagne Scented Vidalia Onion and Brie Cheese Soup with Black Berry Compote.
For the main entrée, guests will enjoy a duet of Herbsaint Lobster Thermidor and Neuskie’s Bacon Wrapped Veal Tournedos with Porcini Mushroom and Carpano
Antica Sweet Vermouth Demi Glace, Forbidden Jasmine Rice, Buttered Asparagus, and Yellow Crookneck Spaghetti. You’ll want to save room for Executive Pastry Chef Solandie Exantus’ sweet creation, a Flourless Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Bean Chantilly Cream & Luxardo Liqueur Dark Cherry Sauce.
The Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door. Parking is complimentary in the hotel’s parking garage. For reservations, please contact Shari Appel at 504-553-2221 or email her at sappel@sonesta.com.

Wednesday, July 9 
"Viva la France!"  Bon Operatit! celebrates Bastille Day with a FREE concert!

Featuring music from Carmen, Les pêcheurs de perles,Samson et Dalila and other french inspired operas!  This week will include guest soprano, Kathleen Halm, accompanied by her husband, Timothy Todd Simmons of New Orleans Opera on the piano from 7:00-9:00 p.m.at the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter. Valet parking is available for just $5.   7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
at the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter


541 Bourbon Street,$5.00 valet parking at the hotel.To reserve a table call (504) 524-7611 ext 146

For more information visit www.BonOperatit.com or call (504) 232-1046  
 Wednesday, July 9 

Concerts are held from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Algiers Ferry Landing every Wednesday evening for eight weeks .
Algiers Ferry Landing   *   200 Morgan Street, New Orleans
July 9
Eric Lindell
Roddie Romero
DJ Rik Ducci
7-9-14
The Old U.S. Mint
400 Esplanade Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70116



A.J. Croce 8:00 PM Wednesday July 9, 2014
AJ 2014 Promo Photo 1 - webFrom his debut as a jazz influenced blues-based artist to his evolution into a pop music iconoclast, singer-songwriter A.J. Croce has traveled a circuitous musical road. Now, with Twelve Tales, A.J. unveiled his most ambitious recording project to date: A dozen new tracks recorded by legendary producers across a variety of American cities, released one song each month in 2013. A.J. recently signed with Compass Records (Colin Haye, Victor Wooten), an independent label that has been touted by Billboard Magazine as one of the leading labels of the past decade. Twelve Tales came out on CD February 4, 2014 and LP on May 6, 2014.

A.J.'s notable producers on Twelve Tales are Nashville's illustrious late "Cowboy" Jack Clement (Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis); New Orleans' ambassador of funk Allen Toussaint (Dr. John, Paul McCartney); five-time Grammy winner Kevin Killen (Elvis Costello, Peter Gabriel) in Stamford, CT; Grammy and Golden Globe nominee Mitchell Froom (Crowded House, Los Lobos) and Tony Berg (Fiona Apple, Bob Dylan) in Los Angeles; and finally Greg Cohen (Tom Waits, John Zorn) in New York City.
The son of legendary singer-songwriter Jim Croce, A.J.'s career began with his first tour at age 18 opening up for B.B. King. In the span of a 20+-year career, A.J. has headlined festivals, concerts and major listening venues worldwide.
A dedicated family man, an adventurous artist and a confident creator; in this phase in his life and career, A.J. is focused less on expectations and more on instincts. "I generally want to do the stuff that makes me feel good," he says. And like the blues greats who influenced him, A.J. Croce continues to create stellar music with longevity, authenticity and truth. Twelve Tales marks the latest milestone on his illustrious journey.
Admission is only $15.
Purchase tickets HERE!


Running of the Bulls in New Orleans
Saturday, July 12  8:30am - 3:00pm

The Sugar Mill, 1021 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA, US

Order tickets via Eventbrite:
http://sfno2014.eventbrite.com/?aff=efbevent

 The 8th Annual Running of the Bulls at San Fermin in Nueva Orleans (SFNO) is the city's most incredible Summer Spectacle! Join thousands of runners as they roam the streets of New Orleans and party with hundreds of Rollerbulls (roller derby skaters with horns on their helmets and plastic bats in their hands) from around the globe during the Encierro.

 Thursday evening, July 10 - Wine Dinner: a gourmet, multi-course meal paired with fine wine. This event is ticketed and will sell out.

 Friday evening, July 11 - El Txupinazo: the official opening of SFNO2014 is pronounced choo-pin-AHT-so and features a roller derby demo, food by reknowned New Orleans chefs, music by local acts as well as packet pick-up. This event is free and open to the public.

 Saturday morning, July 12 - Encierro and Post Encierro Fiesta: SFNO revelers begin gathering near the starting line during the wee hours of Friday night. But the crowd builds in earnest at 6:30 AM when the festival bars open. The Procession of San Fermin kicks off the morning and an invocation preceeds the Running of the Bulls at 8 AM SHARP! This is a ticketed only event. Following the event enjoy live music, food and lots of fun.

 Saturday evening, July 12 - La Fiesta de Pantalones: sip a cocktail whilst enjoying live music and sorting your camera phone photos. The venue and musical guest are currently TBD. More info will be available soon.

 Sunday early afternoon, July 13 - El Pobre de Mi: close our SFNO2014 with a tapas brunch, Ernest Hemingway-inspired contests, live music and a few other entertaining surprises. This event is free and open to the public!

 As always, a portion of the proceeds will benefit our favorite charities: Animal Rescue New Orleans and The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Louisiana.
  

Running of the Bulls in New Orleans

July 11-13, 2014
Bastille Day Celebrations


7-11-14
 

Bastille Day, celebrated in France as the equivalent of our 4th of July, will once again be celebrated in this “Most French of American Cities.” A series of events commemorating the French Independence Day are scheduled for the weekend of July 11-13 in downtown New Orleans, in and around the French Quarter and in the French-founded Faubourg St. John neighborhood of New Orleans.

The Alliance Française of New Orleans has planned a day-long celebration in Spanish Plaza, adjacent to the Mississippi Riverfront at the foot of Canal Street on Saturday, July 12.

Across town, in the historic Faubourg St. John neighborhood alongside Bayou St. John, the Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association will be staging their annual Bastille Day celebration on that as well. Other Bastille Day events may be held in or around the French Quarter, as well (check local listings for details and information).

Spanish Plaza Celebration

On Saturday, July 12, from 3:00-8:00 p.m., The Spanish Plaza turns French for a day.

For the third year, New Orleans’ Bastille Day weekend’s main event is Bastille Day Fête, a free, public festival taking place this year at the revitalized Spanish Plaza.

Located at the foot of Canal Street between the Algiers Ferry landing and the entrance to the Riverwalk Marketplace, Spanish Plaza is a scenic, terraced Mississippi River overlook. You can enjoy the cooling breeze coming off the river while feasting on delicious French food from local restaurants and dancing to the sound of live music.

This year’s lineup will feature exceptional local artists and francophone acts. Children will be treated to face-painting, French storytelling and arts activities. Plus, you can connect live in France via live radio broadcast! Hear and be heard at celebrations in Paris and cities across the U.S.

Dogs are invited tot he celebration. You can dress up your poodle or other pup and enter the annual “French Dog Contest” where dogs of all breeds are welcome to show off their French spirit and win prizes.

Food vendors offering their French delicacies this year’s event include Crepes a la Carte, Café Degas, Dijon, Bread on Oaks and more yet to come.

2014 Entertainment Lineup

3:00-3:15 – Opening
3:15-4:00 – Musical performance, Norbert Slama Trio
4:00-4:15 – Kids performing
4:15-4:45 – Dogs contest – France and Jules Verne themes
4:45-5:00 – Kids performing
5:00-5:45 – Musical performance, Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots
5:45-6:00 – Kids performing - Lycée Français
6:00-6:45 – French Dance lesson
6:45-7:00 – Contest Panier result
7:00-8:00 – Musical performance, Feufollet

Bastille Day Fête is sponsored by the Alliance Francaise de la Nouvelle-Orleans, the French-American Chamber of Commerce, and the French Consulate. For more information visit www.bastilledaynola.com or find them on Facebook.
Dress up your pup! All French dogs or dogs dressed in French style welcome.



Take inspiration from this year’s judging categories:

Most French: Des baguettes, des berets, du fromage, du vin…need we say more?
Best Dressed: This is a fashion contest after all…
Most Jules Verne: Take inspiration from the world of Jules Verne. Themes could include: adventurism, science-fiction, steam-punk–use your imagination!
Register here now!
Choose one category when you register, or register 3 times to be judged in all 3 categories.

Doggie goodie bagswill be provided by Canine Connection to all participants. First through third place winners in each category will receive additional prizes including dog toys and gift certificates for boarding, vet check-ups and grooming from Canine Connection, Prytania Vet, Petcetera, NOLA Bark Market, and Petco.

http://bastilledaynola.com/bastilledaynola/french-dog-contest/

Register here now! https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e9gv2jcp8ff86078&oseq&c&ch

Proceeds benefit the Louisiana SPCA!
POSTS
Faubourg St. John Celebration

Bastille Day will also be celebrated in the Faubourg St. John neighborhood of New Orleans on Saturday, July 12.

This event, staged every year in mid-July by the Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association, takes place in the 3100 block of Ponce de Leon Street, just off Esplanade Avenue near the Fair Grounds Race Course. The celebrations have everything that makes a typical New Orleans festival complete: food, music, art and best of all, FREE entry!

The festivities will take place from 5:00-9:00 p.m. and the event is open to the public.
This is a family-oriented event with fun things for the kids to do, including arts and crafts, and games. All of the neighborhood's stores and businesses actively participate, and there is an art market where locally-produced works of art can be purchased and stages where live music will be performed.

There are also pétanque games going on during the Bastille Day celebration. Similar to the Italian bocce and English lawn bowling, pétanque is played by nearly 20 million people worldwide, 17 million in France alone.

Visitors without their own means of transportation who want to take part in the festivities can catch the Esplanade bus or a taxicab to the site. It’s just a short ride from the French Quarter and downtown hotels.

For more detailed information, visit the Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association website at www.fsjna.org.

History of Bastille Day


On July 14, 1789 more than 8,000 men and women stormed a prison fortress in Paris known as the Bastille, demanding the release of the political prisoners being held there, plus the prison's store of weapons. The storming of the Bastille was the spark that set off the French Revolution, an event that had a significant impact not only on France itself but its colonies and former colonies as well, including New Orleans.

Arising from the tumult and chaos of the French Revolution was a young, ambitious general named Napoleon Bonaparte. In order to help finance his wars in Europe, Napoleon sold off his country's largest North American colony in what became known as the Louisiana Purchase. With that 1803 transaction, New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana – plus a vast swath of land between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains – became part of the United States.

Bastille Day is commemorated in hundreds of cities and nations around the world as the French National Holiday, equivalent to the American 4th of July. It is traditionally celebrated with fireworks displays and other festivities that pay tribute to those cities’ and nations’ French heritage. In North America it is celebrated in cities like New Orleans that were founded by the French and in the Canadian Province of Quebec, explored and founded by the French a century or two before New Orleans.



Saturday, July 12 
Tango Celebration

 

Casa Argentina
commemorates the
198th Anniversary of Argentina’s Independence
with a Dinner, Tango Show and Dance 
Tango Celebration
Saturday July 12th, 2014
New Orleans Downtown Marriott
Blaine Kern Ballroom
859 Convention Center Boulevard
Cocktail Attire 
About the Show 
Miriam Larici, outstanding choreographer and dancer in "Forever Tango" with Leonardo Barrionuevo,
Gold Medal winners of the International Dance Stars on NBC's "Superstars of Dance” 
Enrique and Guillermo De Fazio, Los Hermanos Macana, famous choreographers and
performers in the Robert Duvall's film” Assassination Tango” 
Ekaterina Fedosova, international Latin Dance Champion and choreographer and 
Jordi Caballeroactor, dancer, choreographer and producer for stage, film, and television. 
Julio y Cesar’s Band will perform through the evening 
6:30 p.m. Patron Party                                                                                   R.S.V.P. by July 7th, 2014
7:45 p.m. Tango Celebration                                                                         504-234-9397
8:00 p.m. Dinner                                                                                            504-896-2229
9: 15p.m. Show followed by dancing                                                            504-377-1162




Sunday, July 13
French Market Annual Bartender and Waiters Race.

 
Where:  Begins at Washington Artillery Park across from Jackson Square (700 Decatur Street), ends at Ursulines Avenue near the French Market arch. 
Why:  It's Bastille Day weekend!  As part of the citywide celebration Bastille Day Nola, the French Market hosts the Bartender and Waiters race to celebrate the exceptional hospitality industry in New Orleans and to uphold a now-worldwide tradition of waiters races, which began in Paris in the early 20th century. True Francophile fun!
When:  Race begins promptly at 4:00 p.m.  Waiters check in  between 3:00 and 3:30. There will be a brief parade at 3:45 featuring French costumed characters, a French vintage car, & and a brass band to clear the way for the racers.  Parade will go down Decatur from St. Ann to Ursulines, same as race route.
Additional Entertainment:  Come prior to the race for live entertainment at the Farmers Market stage. Here is a schedule of the day's events:

2:00 to 2:45                   French cooking demonstration by Chef Jim Bremer of the Marigny's Franklin Restaurant & Lounge hosted by Southern Food and Beverage Museum
3:00-4:00                       Live music at Farmers Market stage with French musicians: guitarist Raphael Bas & accordionist Norbert Slama
3:45 p.m.                       Rally at Washington Artillery Park & Mini-parade down Decatur Street
4:00 p.m.                       Race begins!!!!
4:30                               Awards Ceremony at Farmers Market stage in the French Market

****NOTE****:  The annual wreath laying ceremony hosted by the Council of French Societies will occur the following day, on Bastille Day on Monday July 14th at 10:00 a.m. at New Place de France, at St. Philip and Decatur Street, at the Joan of Arc statue. 1000 Decatur Street.  Free and open to the public.  Come join in the public singing of La Marseillaise!

Sunday, July 13 
Trinity Artist Series Presents  Come to enjoy "Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité" 
the spirit of Bastille Day celebrated by  French saxophonist/pianist/singer Pascal Valcasara, 
organist/pianist Albinas Prizgintas,  soprano Maria Elise Thomas, mezzo-soprano Elizabeth Evans, 
cellists Jean & Sarah Montes,  Flutist Donivan Hill, and more surprises, featuring Classical and Popular Music of France
Trinity Artist Series at Trinity Church, 1329 Jackson Avenue, New Orleans



Tuesday, July 15 @ 6 pm: Organ & Labyrinth with Albinas Prizgintas, organist.
Classical & Popular Music through the Ages. Please visit: www.albinas.org    


Last weekend to see JPAS's The Complete History of America (abridged) July 10-12




July 11-13
ABCT's SAY AMEN

  SAY AMEN
  • What: ABCT stages the premiere of the original gospel play written by artistic director Anthony Bean. Pastor Sterling Washington Jr., leader of a New Orleans mega-church, harbors a deep secret that challenges the core of his beliefs in the aftermath of a random shooting that kills his only son. Bean directs the cast, which includes Roscoe Reddix Jr. and Kim Che're.
  • Where: Anthony Bean Community Theater, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave.
  • When: Performances at 8 Fridays and Saturdays, and at 3 Sundays, through July 13. 
  • Admission: $20; $18 for students and seniors. For information, call 862.7529 or visit the theater website.
  • http://anthonybeantheater.com/Index.cfm
 The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane kicks off its season with a production of the Bard's classic comic fairy tale. Clare Moncrief directs Danny Bowen, Francesca McKenzie, Clint Johnson, Liam Kraus and others.
*Where: Lupin Theater, Tulane University, 6823 St.  Charles Ave..
*When: Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 1:30 p.m.; through July 12.
*Admission: Tickets $25 general admission, $20 seniors, $15 students.


A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM
*More info: For tickets  visit the website at neworleansshakespeare.org


Wednesday, July 16 - Time to Toast to Tales of the Cocktail. 
Photo: Save this date: Wednesday July 16th at 12 Noon All Hail the Cocktail at the Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon  We’re getting into the spirit for the 12th Annual Tales of the Cocktail when the art of a good cocktail reigns over the Big Easy. On Wednesday July 16th at 12 Noon, the Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon will shake it up when talented mixologists and industry professionals share a peek inside the world’s premier event Tales of the Cocktail. Hosted by Margarita Bergen in the hotel’s elegant Acadia Suite, the popular luncheon promises lively discussion, delicious cuisine, and flowing champagne with plenty of surprises!  Founder and Executive Director of Tales of the Cocktail, Mrs. Cocktail herself Ann Tuennerman will kick things off by divulging insider news on this year’s programming.  As head bartender for the historic Carousel Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone, the talented Marvin Allen will discuss his personal cocktail philosophy and his new book Magic in a Shaker: A Year of Spirited Libations. Allen will top things off with a demonstration of various bar tools and share tips on how to set up your own home bar.  Then Elizabeth Williams, New Orleans native and President of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, will share SoFAB’s mission of discovering, understanding and celebrating the food, drink and unique culture of the South.  For entertainment, guests will enjoy a live performance from the incomparable bass-baritone vocalist Ivan Griffin who will be accompanied by Round Table resident pianist Jim Walpole.  Our expert culinary team has prepared an elegant three-course spread just for the occasion. The array of starters include an amuse bouche of Spiced Honeydew Melon with Campari Froth, then a Bunderfleisch and Grana Padano Cheese Soufflé with Brick Dough Pastry, George Dickel Whiskey Bell Pepper Coulis, and finally a Champagne Scented Vidalia Onion and Brie Cheese Soup with Black Berry Compote.  For the main entrée, guests will enjoy a duet of Herbsaint Lobster Thermidor and Neuskie’s Bacon Wrapped Veal Tournedos with Porcini Mushroom and Carpano  Antica Sweet Vermouth Demi Glace, Forbidden Jasmine Rice, Buttered Asparagus, and Yellow Crookneck Spaghetti. You’ll want to save room for Executive Pastry Chef Solandie Exantus’ sweet creation, a Flourless Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Bean Chantilly Cream & Luxardo Liqueur Dark Cherry Sauce.  The Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door. Parking is complimentary in the hotel’s parking garage. For reservations, please contact Shari Appel at 504-553-2221 or email her at sappel@sonesta.com.
All Hail the Cocktail at the Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon -Wednesday, July 16
We’re getting into the spirit for the 12th Annual Tales of the Cocktail when the art of a good cocktail reigns over the Big Easy. On Wednesday July 16th at 12 Noon, the Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon will shake it up when talented mixologists and industry professionals share a peek inside the world’s premier event Tales of the Cocktail. Hosted by  yours truly  in the hotel’s elegant Acadia Suite, the popular luncheon promises lively discussion, delicious cuisine, and flowing champagne with plenty of surprises!
Founder and Executive Director of Tales of the Cocktail, Mrs. Cocktail herself Ann Tuennerman will kick things off by divulging insider news on this year’s programming.
As head bartender for the historic Carousel Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone, the talented Marvin Allen will discuss his personal cocktail philosophy and his new book Magic in a Shaker: A Year of Spirited Libations. Allen will top things off with a demonstration of various bar tools and share tips on how to set up your own home bar.
Then Elizabeth WilliamsNew Orleans native and President of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, will share SoFAB’s mission of discovering, understanding and celebrating the food, drink and unique culture of the South. 

  1. George Sandeman, Chairman of the House of Sandeman, will be our featured spirit speaker representing his world famous Port. He  is the eldest of the seventh generation of this family,linked to the Port Wine and Sherry businesses.
  2. For entertainment, guests will enjoy a live performance from the incomparable bass-baritone vocalisIvan Griffin who will be accompanied by Round Table resident pianist Jim Walpole.
Our expert culinary team has prepared an elegant three-course spread just for the occasion. The array of starters include an amuse bouche of Spiced Honeydew Melon with Campari Froth, then a Bunderfleisch and Grana Padano Cheese Soufflé with Brick Dough Pastry, George Dickel Whiskey Bell Pepper Coulis, and finally a Champagne Scented Vidalia Onion and Brie Cheese Soup with Black Berry Compote.
For the main entrée, guests will enjoy a duet of Herbsaint Lobster Thermidor and Neuskie’s Bacon Wrapped Veal Tournedos with Porcini Mushroom and Carpano
Antica Sweet Vermouth Demi Glace, Forbidden Jasmine Rice, Buttered Asparagus, and Yellow Crookneck Spaghetti. You’ll want to save room for Executive Pastry Chef Solandie Exantus’ sweet creation, a Flourless Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Bean Chantilly Cream & Luxardo Liqueur Dark Cherry Sauce.
The Royal Sonesta’s Round Table Luncheon is $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door. Parking is complimentary in the hotel’s parking garage. For reservations, please contact Shari Appel at 504-553-2221 or email her at sappel@sonesta.com.

OPENS FRIDAY, JULY 11 - SUNDAY, JULY 20 AT NORD TY TRACY THEATRE, GALLIER HALL



 PREMIERE PRODUCTION OF MAIN STREET KIDS' CLUB: 
A MathStart MUSICAL
OPENS FRIDAY, JULY 11 - SUNDAY, JULY 20 AT NORD TY TRACY THEATRE, GALLIER HALL
Crescent City Lights Youth Theater, in partnership with New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC), will present the first of its two summer productions in July.  The New Orleans premiere of Main Street Kids' Club: A Mathstart Musical will be presented July 11-13 and July 18-20 at the NORD Ty Tracy Theatre in Gallier Hall, 545 St. Charles Ave. Main Street Kids' Club tells a tale of adventure, mystery, friendship and math, based on a series of award-winning books by Stuart Murphy.  Six stories, each focusing on a different mathematical concept have been cleverly woven together and adapted by the creators of Schoolhouse Rock Live with music by Scott Ferguson.
Performance Times are Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 1:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
For more information, visit www.crescentcitylights.org


  
 TOUR OF THE MEDITERRANEAN EMBARKS JULY 7
Metairie, LA- Pack your culinary suitcase and prep your palate for an exciting journey as Vega Tapas Café embarks on its 14th annual "Tour of the Mediterranean," an eight week epicurean excursion of exotic tastes and flavors from around the Great Inland Sea! Chef/owner Glen Hogh announces his yearly progressive tour of tasting menus will kick off on July 7 with Morocco as the first dining destination. A NEW dining destination on the tour this year is Syria.
"It is always the highlight of our summer promotional program," said Chef Hogh. "Being passionate about history and travel, the foods that I find are the connective voices of appreciation of different countries and cultures," he added.
The special tour tasting menus, which cost $27 per person plus tax and gratuity (the price has remaimed the same for the past five years!), consist of 5-8 small plate courses crafted around the classic flavors of each country. "Tour Travelers" also have the option of pairing regional wines (when available) with each tasting for an additional $15 per person. This year Vega will offer wines from Morocco, Turkey and Syria - all rare finds!
"Tour of the Mediterranean" dates include:
July 7-12: Morocco
July 14-19: Egypt
July 21 -26: Syria
July 28-Aug 2: Turkey
August 4-9: Greece
August 11-16: Italy
August 18-23: France
August 25-30: Spain
The city's first true tapas eatery, Vega Tapas Café is located at 2051 Metairie Road in Old Metairie and is open for dinner Monday through Saturday at 5:30pm. In addition, Vega Tapas Café offers full-service catering for business luncheons, celebratory occasions and private functions. Visit www.vegatapascafe for more information.


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Margarita Bergen Owner, Casell Bergen Gallery
Tel: +1 504 5240671 Mobile: +1 504 -4959181 Address: 1305 Decatur St.

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