Monday, August 28, 2017

A Toast to New Orleans and YOU: August 28-September 3: 12th ANNUAL KATRINA ARTISTICALLY REVISITED /Cultural Collision/ Louisiana Indoor Beef Picnic/ Southern Decadence and More

Darlings,
I hope you are all staying dry and safe after the passing of Hurricane Harvey. I am thankful and feeling blessed that New Orleans was spared the fury and destruction of this monster storm. Our memories are still very fresh from what we went through 12 years ago today and so my prayers are for the people of Houston and its long recovery process.
As you know, I just returned from a very much-needed vacation where I toured and visited friends in Dallas, Nacogdoches and Tyler, Texas. Lack of time prevented us from stopping in Houston and we feel very lucky we didn’t but we are very concerned about its residents and those of other places that were also hard-hit.
Upon my return on Friday, I was devastated when I learned that one of my dearest darling friends, author Dianne De Las Casas, died at age 47 in a house fire in Harvey, La.  I admired and loved the talented Dianne and had featured her, along with her partner, author John Crouere, her equally talented daughter, Chef Eliana, in several of my literary Round Table Luncheons. An award-winning author, Dianne published more than two dozen books. She founded Picture Book Month, celebrated in November and recognized by the American Association of School Librarians. She also worked as manager for her daughter Eliana, 17, whose culinary abilities have resulted in cookbooks, a radio show and national television appearances. I attended a lovely Celebration of Life for her at Jefferson Orleans and got to see her family. I will always treasure the memories of the time we spent together. May her soul RIP. 
I returned to my beloved New Orleans in time to attend a lovely celebration at King Fish of the 5th Annual Huey P. Long Look-a-Like and Best-Dressed Contest. I had plenty of opportunities to toast to the Kingfish with a Ramos Gin Fizz, made famous by Long who employed his own personal mixologist.
That night I also stopped briefly at the beautiful concert at Scandia House formerly known as the New Orleans Norwegian Seamen's Church, 1772 Prytania Street. The concert featured England-born acclaimed musician, Glyn Bailey, and talented vocalist, Ariel Assaf, performing Irish, English and Scottish music and dance. I am excited about the renovation of the church. Read this article about Scandia House
http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/communities/crescent_city/article_488e110a-82ed-11e7-9c4a-a38c415d6001.html

On Saturday, besides attending the Life Celebration for Dianne, I also went to the Latin- themed Jefferson Council on Aging's Sixth Annual Senior Moments Gala at the Chateau Golf and Country Club in Kenner. Guests enjoyed the Latin sounds of Julio and Cesar and their band. There were also Salsa dancers and great items in the silent auction. The mission of the Jefferson Council on Aging is to assist the senior citizens of Jefferson Parish to age with dignity and independence in the place and manner of their choice.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154613365585870.1073742915.581200869&type=1&l=12186e7bd0



Immediately after this fun soiree, I went to the Ace Hotel to meet Tito Puente Jr., son of my late, darling friend, the legendary Latin percussionist, Tito Puente. He was performing in Muevelo Concert. I could not stay for the concert but loved meeting him after many years of trying to do it.
Darlings, this upcoming week is going to be another busy one since it includes the Labor Day Weekend and, most important, the always-fun Southern Decadence Weekend. I hope the rains will stay away so we can enjoy it.
Today, Monday, August 28, is the 12th Annual Katrina Artistically Revisited special commemorative multi-media event at The Theatres at Canal Place, 333 Canal Street. It is FREE to the community (except $5.00 for the award-winning film, Big Charity, The Death of the Oldest Hospital in America.) 18 and over admitted. (see calendar for complete schedule)
Save the date:

The  annual Round Table Luncheon Saluting the Cultural Arts  will be held on Wednesday, September 13 at noon at the historic ballroom of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, 717 Orleans Street between Royal and Bourbon streets in the heart of the French Quarter. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for a 12 noon start.
The luncheon will be co-hosted by Scott Hutcheson, Senior Adviser to the Mayor for Cultural Economy and Society columnist and blogger Margarita Bergen. 
Among the speakers who have been  invited are Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser; Jenny Hamilton, Executive Director of  New Orleans Ballet Association; Maestro Robert Lyall, General Director and Conductor of the New Orleans Opera Association; Maestro Dennis Assaf, Artistic Director of the Jefferson Performing Arts Society; James William Boyd, CEO of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra; Neil A. Barclay, Director and CEO of the Contemporary Arts Center; Maxwell Williams, Artist Director of Le Petit Theatre; Dr. Maxim Samarov, Conductor of the New Orleans Chamber Orchestra; and Nick Stillman, President & CEO of the Arts Council of New Orleans.
Also speaking will be Ylva Rouse, Executive Director of Prospect 4 art project; William Pittman Andrews, Executive Director of the Ogden Museum of Southern Art; Dave Hurlbert,  Executive Director of the Marigny Opera House; and Aimee Hayes, Artistic Director of Southern Rep Theatre.
Live entertainment will be by talented Soprano Kathleen Halm Simmons, accompanied on the piano by Timothy Todd SimmonsExecutive Director at New Orleans Opera Association and, as lagniappe, Dr. Maxim Samarov will play one song on his cello. Pianist Jim Walpole will play the piano before and after the Round Table Luncheon. 
The gourmet menu will feature: 
Wedge Salad
iceberg wedge with blue cheese crumbles, red onions, cherry tomatoes, drizzled with ranch dressing
Gulf Fish
grilled gulf fish topped with crawfish tails and a lemon butter sauce
Dessert
praline cheese cake
So please make your reservation now before it gets sold out like it did last month. The $55 all-inclusive price includes a 3-course gourmet luncheon, champagne/wines and valet parking. You can make reservations by calling Judy LeBlanc at (504) 571-4672 or email her at Judy.LeBlanc@BourbonOrleans.com
RESERVATIONS AND PREPAYMENT ARE REQUIRED. Walk-ins will not be accepted, as the hotel will only prepare meals for the number of guests who have made reservations.



Lafete News Link August 28, 2017
http://conta.cc/2gjUl9H

Love New Orleans & She'll Love You Back.
Sincerely,
Frank Stansbury





Culture Collision 9
August 30 | 5:30-8 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp Street
Admission is free.
Mark your calendars for this free annual event that serves as a cultural happy hour with displays from more than 70 arts organizations, including The Historic New Orleans Collection. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the featured organizations, enjoy live performances, and survey the city's upcoming cultural season. There is also a free raffle and a cash bar.
Be sure to visit THNOC's table! They just might have a few goodies for you. Come put your historical knowledge to the test at THNOC's table, and they will have prizes for you.
Culture Collision is hosted by New Orleans Public Radio, 89.9 FM, WWNO, and is sponsored by DEVENEY. The annual event is organized by WWNO, DEVENEY, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, the New Orleans Museum of Art, the New Orleans Ballet Association, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and Southern Rep Theatre. More information is available at culturenola.com.
Wednesday, August 30
Louisiana Grass Fed Beef Indoor Picnic
Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse will transform into an indoor picnic for the fifth annual Louisiana Grass Fed Beef Event.
The chefs from Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, Palace Café, Bourbon House and Tableau will expertly prepare various cuts of beef to showcase their creativity. In true Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse style, they will be using local ingredients, adding depth of flavor to each slice of beef. A Louisiana picnic would not be complete without libations. They will also offer cocktails featuring Glenfiddich Whisky and Hendrick's Gin, Stella Artois Belgium Beer, and wine fit for a fancy downtown picnic.
Tickets include food, specialty cocktails, wine, beer, as well as non-alcoholic options. Additional beverages will be available for purchase. A portion of each ticket will benefit Edible Schoolyard a program of FirstLine Schools
August 30- September 4- Southern Decadence Weekend 
What began as a simple going-away party in 1972 has evolved into one of New Orleans’ premier annual events: Southern Decadence. Held annually over Labor Day weekend, this celebration of LGBT culture now attracts over 160,000 participants from all over the world. http://www.neworleansonline.com/neworleans/festivals/gaylesbianfestivals/southerndecadence.html


Southern Decadence Festival - New Orleans Online

www.neworleansonline.com
New Orleans Southern Decadence information including dates about this LGBT festival

Enjoy your week. Please put this date on your cALENDAR AND MAKE YOUR RESERVATION NOW: 




12th ANNUAL KATRINA ARTISTICALLY REVISITED 
The 12th Annual Katrina Artistically Revisited special commemorative multi-media event on Monday, August 28, 2017 at The Theatres at Canal Place, 333 Canal Street, at The Shops at Canal Place in the French Quarter, is FREE to the community (except $5.00 for the award-winning Big Charity, The Death of the Oldest Hospital in America.) 18 and over admitted.


In the Theatre Lobby, 5 pm - 11 pm, Octavia Books' owner Tom Lowenburg offers an illustrious host of best-selling Katrina publications for browsing and for sale, along with a book signing by businessman and philanthropist, and author/editor John E. Wade II for his publication How to Achieve a Heaven on Earth for which he is the editor of 101 essays on this subject.  Also slated is a book signing by author John Batty, RN, MSN, titled Voices of Angels, Disaster Lessons from Katrina Nurses.  "After Hurricane Katrina, stories were about the patients or lack of resources, but we did not hear the stories of the nurses who cared for the vulnerable while their own homes, families, and friends were affected by this disaster," states Linda Bell, RN, MSN who wrote a book review about Batty's publication. (Both these authors will speak in the Theater #8 program listed below.)  The Advocate staff writer, as well as a book author, Dean Shapiro is set to share on his lap-top, Katrina Aftermath: A Slide Presentation of the Hardest Hit Areas of New Orleans.  "A Theatre Lobby 'Meet and Greet' also encourages guests and participants to mingle and talk about their Katrina journeys while enjoying Gusto Cafe and Bar for food and beverages for sale," suggest the producers, "so come early and stay late.  You don't want to miss anything."


In Theatre #8, 6 pm - 11 pm, the guests are engaged from beginning to the end of this unique home-grown yet professional program.  As in each year's program, this year's 16 participants share their brilliant documentation from different areas around New Orleans by applying their personal individual artistic responses to the Katrina tragedy.  

Each participant's artistic approach to his or her own experience is extremely important," adds Armand St. Martin, a BMI songwriter and popular piano-playing entertainer.  "We try to vary our program each year so there is always something new for everybody." 

At 6 pm, Katrina Artistically Revisited opens with a warm Welcome, followed by Armand St. Martin's music performance of Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans.  Next on the program, Richard Cahn's Day After Katrina at Bayou St. John is a short photo DVD set to peaceful original music by St. Martin.  Cahn survived Katrina at home by himself, thinking like thousands of other locals and guests to the city that after he "rode out Katrina", he would assess the damages and have his family return soon-after from evacuating.  What nobody anticipated were the levee breaches.  Compiled into a short DVD, Cahn's handful of  photographs were taken after Katrina struck.  He trekked alone on foot to escape the rising waters from the encroaching levee breaches, taking a route from his home in Bayou St. John to downtown New Orleans where his car was parked in a high-rise.

At 6:08 pm, visionary and author John E. Wade II delivers his well-designed presentation with Q&A, Ecological Harmony in Heaven and Earth.  Wade's book signing at the Octavia Books exhibit in the Theatre Lobby is for Wade's previously published tome, How to Achieve a Heaven on Earth, which he started writing while being evacuated from his home in the Garden District during Katrina.  The Catholic Digest reviews this 320 page hardcover by concluding, "Some of the world's modern thinkers, leaders, and writers offer insights on the world and what they believe can be done to find peace, security, freedom, moral purpose, meaning, and more." 

By 6:18 pm, a film trailer of the award-winning Home is a precursor to this Best Documentary Short Film by filmmaker, director and animator Matt Faust.  Home is featured later in this program, documenting how the Faust family home that Matt Faust's grandfather built in 1960 was destroyed inChalmette in Katrina. (See Home in the program below.)

At 6:20 pm, John Batty, RN, MSN, shares his author-presentation accompanied by Q&A for the informative book he co-wrote with the late Gail Tumulty titled, Voices of Angels, Disaster Lessons from Katrina Nurses.  Some of the nurses in Batty's book are also interviewed in the Big Charity film.  Batty has his book signing also in the Theatre Lobby exhibit of Octavia Books.  (When he first released information about his book on his FaceBook page, in four days he received over 68,000 hits.)  There are unsung heroes of Katrina, and the Katrina Nurses are among these.  Batty was a featured participant in the Louisiana Book Festival 2015 in Baton Rouge.  With an illustrious list of professional credits, Batty has served as an Adjunct Instructor at the Loyola Graduate School of Nursing since 2006. 

At 6:40 pm, a wonderful slide film by the New Orleans Kids Camera Project is accompanied by Armand St. Martin's live performance of Louis Armstrong's What a Wonderful World.  The compiled photographs were snapped by Katrina children which remind us that every age was affected by Katrina.  A brainstorm idea by Joanna Rosenthal and Ariya Martin, the two women gave disposable cameras to Katrina kids and then developed their photos for this project.  Life as seen through the innocent eyes of Katrina kids offers a powerful simplicity, as does this slide show with live music.

At 6:48 pm, following this response by Katrina kids, Libba McEnery's Transformations, a DVD short she made on her home computer, and is set to music, documents in photos how volunteer out-of-town Christian teenaged "Teams" and team leaders immediately began arriving to help the McEnery's Lamb Ministries continue their decades-long ministry to New Orleans inner-city children.  This is a moving three-minute DVD that helps the audience recognize how important these wholesome teams have been in the outreach of Lamb Ministries and with the recovery of the city in general. These teams still return yearly since Katrina to help Lamb Ministries with recovery efforts.  Q&A.

By 6:58 pm, acclaimed local photographer Dennis Couvillion's Stillness. . .the Aftermath of Katrina is scheduled.  This artistic offering is spellbinding and awe-inspiring.  Couvillion's b&w short film is set to an original music score by Dean Dupuy, with the music produced/mixed/recorded by Armand St. Martin. The film shares unforgettable photos of the devastation of Lakeview and the Lower Ninth Ward

At 7:12 pm, the filmmaker, director, and animator of HomeMatt Faust is introduced.  Faust offers About Home first, a one-minute written account on screen to give a quick insight into Faust's background.  About Home is followed by Faust's gripping, moving, and unforgettable short film, Home, which was awarded the Tribeca Film Festival First Place Winner Award for Best Documentary Short

At 7:30 pmArmand St. Martin performs his sentimental original song, Orleans Lullaby, about not being able to sleep after Katrina.  "One night like many other nights after we returned home 'to camp out indoors in our ruined house,' I just couldn't sleep.  In the pitch dark and eerie quiet, I quietly slipped out of bed with the lyrics and music going around in my head.  I sat at the kitchen table under a little lamp and wrote the entire Orleans Lullaby that night in one sitting, something that has never happened to me before as a songwriter and a composer," St. Martin shares.  Orleans Lullaby is featured on St. Martin's CD, Katrina Anthem on Patty Lee Records and produced by Patty Lee.  His CD is offered at Octavia Books in the Theatre Lobby.
  

At 7:35 pm, the Keynote Speaker is Brobson Lutz, M.D.  Dr. Lutz is a well-recognized, distinguished practicing physician in uptown New Orleans with his office by the former Baptist Hospital which was Tenant-owned during Katrina.  He resides in the French Quarter and was the a remarkable medical first responder in the French Quarter during Katrina and its aftermath.  Dr. Lutz quickly became a familiar face on local, national and international media as the vital resource for important and personalized first-hand information, a true voice of Katrina and the aftermath.  He wore many hats during Katrina and single-handedly accomplished enormous feats beyond measure, with courage and a good heart.  Dr. Lutz's colorful Keynote Speech, French Quarter Health Department in Exile, covers just about any kind of experience a person can imagine during the Katrina tragedy.  This title was inspired by the handmade sign Dr. Lutz strung across his own home, the Tennessee Williams Compound, during the devastating Katrina experience.  Dr. Lutz is in Big Charity, the Death of America's Oldest Hospital.  A not-to-be-missed enlightening lecture by this remarkable man.  Q&A after his speech.

At 8:05 pm, the multi-award winning Big Charity, the Death of America's Oldest Hospital is featured, $5.  A full-length documentary by filmmaker, co-producer, editor and director Alexander John Glustrom, Big Charity, the Death of America's Oldest Hospital is a life-changing film everybody should see.  It factually exposes what really happened to this charitable hospital, and to its staff, patients, and first responders during and after Katrina.  Co-produced by Ben Johnson and Catherine Rierson. "Charity Hospital was the oldest continually running hospital in the nation. . . until. . . .," say most New Orleanians as their voices drift.  

By 9:35 pm, Armand St. Martin is back aboard the program to lighten up the evening with his original parody about his family's FEMA experience, titled Waitin' For My Trailer.  His lyrics cover everything ridiculous ranging from FEMA providing trailers to survivors but not giving them the keys, to FEMA not willing to pick up  the St. Martin's FEMA trailer because FEMA claimed they never received a trailer, yet there it was still sitting in the St. Martin's front yard. 

At 9:40 pmChaplain Hy McEnery speaks about First Responding by Boat in Uptown New Orleans and Daily Feeding Policemen as a first responder in uptown New Orleans where he and his wife live "on the sliver on the river."  Part of McEnery's first responding was accomplished in the boat that is featured at the permanent Katrina exhibit at the Louisiana State Museum's Presbytere in the French Quarter.  This boat remains at the outdoor entrance to this museum exhibit to this day with a write-up about McEnery.

At 9:50 pmMatt Faust's Tribeca Film Festival's First Place Winner for Best Short Film, Home, is featured again, with the last frame of his film frozen on the screen to help Robert Lynn Green, Sr. illustrate his own personal story of peril, loss, and survival in the Lower Ninth Ward during the catastrophic breach in the wall of the Industrial Canal, just a few blocks from his home.  Robert Lynn Green, Sr. is The Original Katrina Rooftop Rider in the Lower Ninth Ward.  He and his large family of all ages dangerously rode on the rooftop of his home as it swirled down Tennessee Street, driven by the sudden surge of rapid running high river water flooding as far as the eye could see in all directions and more. Sadly Robert Green's mother and 4 year old granddaughter slipped from the twirling house and drowned. 

At 10:10 pmRick Lavine, M.D.'s hopeful documentary Second Line, Second Life, A Journey of Healing is offered.  Dr. Lavine first met Robert Lynn Green, Sr. when Dr. Lavine and his family came to New Orleans from Mill Valley, California to help with recovery and the rebuilding of the city.  (

By 10:50 pmChris Madden and Patrick Madden's Project Katrina, a mother-son project, is featured with the soundtrack by Armand St. Martin of his original Katrina-related songs, St. Expedite and Orleans Lullaby.  This short DVD features Chris Madden, Inc., her company that provided brand new furnishings throughout the South after Katrina to various families who lost all their possessions. ion host, and businesswoman and truly is the epitome of the word "kind."

At 10:55 pm, Armand St. Martin performs his original upbeat song and composition, Potholes and Politicians, written after the St. Martin's had three flat tires all in one day shortly after Katrina while trying to negotiate potholes everywhere

At 11:00 pmArmand St. Martin performs When the Saints Go Marching In to bid adieu until next year's 13th Annual Katrina Artistically Revisited on August 28, 2018 at The Theatres at Canal Place, followed by Thank Yous for this 12th Annual Katrina Artistically Revisited to our Sponsors, Participants, the Theatre GM, Manager and Staff, and Audience.  Still Photographs by Mark Sindler, Donn Young, Patty Lee, and supplied by Robert Lynn Green, Sr.

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I Will Survive: A Drag Show


Where:
The Mardi Gras Museum of Costume and Culture | 1010 Conti Street

When:
Tues. August 29th | 5:30-7:30p

What:
 A drag show to raise awareness for the health care provided at the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic

free and open to the public


Wednesday, Cultural Collision

Culture Collision Partners with Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans to Relocate Annual Event at CAC



Culture Collision, a one-of-a-kind Big Easy celebration, is partnering with WWNO and the Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans (CAC) to relocate the ninth-annual event, which will allow its directors to accommodate an ever-growing roster of nonprofit visual and performing arts organizations. Slated for Wednesday, August 30, from 5:30 – 8 p.m., Culture Collision 9 (CC9) has already confirmed more than 80 participating nonprofits and will take place in the first-floor warehouse space of the CAC. The event is free, open to the public, and guests can access the event from the Camp Street entrance.

In its annual kickoff of the cultural season, Culture Collision will introduce potential audience members, volunteers, patrons and artists to the diverse mix of arts groups that call New Orleans home. The event arose in 2008 due to the city’s need for a collective voice among local arts organizations, and today, remains steadfast in its mission to foster collaboration among those nonprofits.http://www.culturenola.com/2017/07/27/culture-collision-partners-with-contemporary-arts-center-new-orleans-to-relocate-annual-event/
www.culturenola.com
New location accommodates growing demand for nonprofits, attendees and activation. NEW ORLEANS (July 26, 2017) – Culture Collision, a one-of-a-kind Big Easy ...

Wednesday, August 30
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
6:30 pm

Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse will transform into an indoor picnic
for the fifth annual Louisiana Grass Fed Beef Event.

Our chefs from Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse, Palace Café, Bourbon House and Tableau will expertly prepare various cuts of beef to showcase their creativity. In true Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse style, we will be using local ingredients, adding depth of flavor to each slice of beef. A Louisiana picnic would not be complete without libations. We will offer cocktails featuring Glenfiddich Whisky and Hendrick's Gin, Stella Artois Belgium Beer, and wine fit for a fancy downtown picnic.

Tickets include food, specialty cocktails, wine, beer, as well as non-alcoholic options. Additional beverages will be available for purchase. A portion of each ticket will benefit Edible Schoolyard a program of FirstLine Schools.
 30

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/august-hobnobber-mulates-tickets-36314311082
 30


TOUCHDOWN CLUB OF NEW ORLEANS, INC.
Presents the  
                                                                
48 thAnnual "MEET THE SAINTS"Luncheon  
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
 Sheraton New Orleans Hotel
500 Canal Street  
Open to all Saints fans 14 yrs and older
Dress Code: Business Casual/Coats Preferred
ABSOLUTELY NO Jeans, T-Shirts, Jerseys or Shorts
$75.00 per person (includes tax)
Doors open at 11:45a.m.
Lunch served at 1:00p.m./Cash Bar Available
Auction Items AND Saints Merchandise for Sale


Southern Decadence
August 30-September 4, 2017

Event DetailsWhen: August 30-September 4, 2017
Where: French Quarter
Cost: FREE!
More Info: Click Here
Southern Decadence
Southern Decadence
Southern Decadence
As Travel + Leisure’s 2nd most Gay-Friendly City for Travel in America, New Orleans draws in people from all over the world to join the parades, parties and contests, for the 46th annual Southern Decadence event! New Orleans celebrates the fact that it is ALWAYS open.

Background

What began as a simple going-away party in 1972 has evolved into one of New Orleans’ premier annual events: Southern Decadence. Held annually over Labor Day weekend, this celebration of LGBT culture now attracts over 160,000 participants from all over the world.
Southern Decadence is one of those quintessential New Orleans occasions in which participants get to strut their stuff in elaborate costumes and high fashion – or barely anything at all!
Everyone gets in on the action and all the bars will have their own drag shows, contests, DJs, music and events. Southern Decadence welcomes you to grab a costume, wander around the French Quarter, take a Gay Walking Tour and visit one of the city's world-famous gay bars.

The Event

Starting on Wednesday, August 30th, the festivities will kick off with block parties, walking tours, Café Karaoke and, of course, parades.
This year’s celebration will be bigger and better than ever, as the Grand Marshals lead marchers and their floats through the streets of the French Quarter. This year’s Grand Marshall’s include: Princess Stephaney, Coca J Mesa and Persana Shoulders.

Parades

The first parade of the weekend typically starts at 7 p.m. on Friday, rolling through the streets of the French Quarter.
The 42nd Annual Official Southern Decadence Parade kicks off the afternoon of Sunday, September 3rd. Starting from the Official Home of Southern Decadence, Golden Lantern on Royal St., this parade is considered the main event of the celebration that brings in visitors and participants from all over the world.
SEPTEMBER 3
MUSICAL LINE UP ANNOUNCED FOR AMTRAK PRESENTS PAZFEST IV
New Orleans Tribute to Joni Mitchell to benefit the Ruth Paz Hospital for
Pediatric Surgery and Burn Care in San Pedro Sula, Honduras
PAZFEST IV, an all-star musical tribute to Joni Mitchell, taking place Sunday, Sept. 3,
2017, 7-11 p.m. at the beautiful Civic Theatre New Orleans. Tickets are $25 and are available in...
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Tuesday, August 15, 2017

A Toast to New Orleans and You: August 15-21: Sake Hop/Gold Medal Gala/BOW WOW LUAU /Love Letters and more.
























Darlings, I hope you are staying cool and dry. 
Fortunately, in between drops, I managed to attend quite a few awesome fun soirees. 
I started my week by attending an incredible, delicious and decadent Spanish Quarter Dinner. OMG! I am still savoring the delicious, decadent Spanish dinner at SOBOU. If there is a gastronomical orgasm, I had a very spirited one! Chef Juan Carlos Gonzales of SOBOU, along with Chef Danny Trace of Brennan's of Houston  Sous Chef Luke Hidalgo of Commander's and proprietor Ti Adelaide Martin took a gastronomical tour of Barcelona and San Sebastian, Spain that resulted in one of the most fantastic dinners that I have ever eaten. Chef Juan Carlos teamed up with talented Bar Chef Laura Belluci to prepare an incredibly delicious dinner, matched with decadent cocktails. The Louisiana Shrimp al Ajillo was a stand-out and I am happy to report that is in the menu so you can experience it yourself.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154573990390870.1073742905.581200869&type=1&l=af5d7bc4dc
On Friday, it was the U.S. Coast Guard Eighth District Change of Command Ceremony   where my darling friend, Rear Admiral David R. Callahan, was relieved by Rear Admiral Paul F. Thomas.


On Friday, August 11, my evening started at the elegant Windsor Court where the annual Susan G. Komen New Orleans Summer Cure Chef Wine Dinner was taking place. I could not stay for the dinner which I am sure was delicious but I enjoyed very much the cocktail party. The event was co-chaired by Pat Denechaud, Holley Haag, Kristi Post, Dottie Reese and Jordan Teich. The Event Coordinator was Joe Briand for a night with outstanding chefs paired with Wine Importers Extraordinaire.

The 2017 Spectacular Chef Line-up included Chef Bill Briand, Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina; Chef Michelle Weaver, Charleston Grill; Chef Justin Devillier, La Petite Grocery, Balise; Pastry Chef Beth Biundo, from Beth Biundo Sweets; and the Host Chef de Cuisine Gabriel Charpentier, The Grill Room at the Windsor Court Hotel. My darling friend Mark Romig was the Emcee and the auctioneer was Jeff CrouereSummer Cure Chefs Wine Dinner: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154578460055870.1073742907.581200869&type=1&l=c1ea4f61d9
That evening it was also the highly anticipated Project Lazarus Ball at The Monastery, 1236 North Rampart Street. I loved seeing so many of my friends all dressed up and for a great cause.
Accompanied by Dr. Tom Albert who is running for New Orleans Mayor and his lovely wife Laura Albert, we enjoyed the delicious food, the decadent SKYY Vodka cocktails and the entertainment by NO IDEA.

In case you did not know, The mission of Project Lazarus is to help heal and empower people living with HIV/AIDS by focusing on wellness, providing housing and offering important support services. Project Lazarus is a place of healing - physically, emotionally and spiritually. Their programs are designed to address the issues faced by our residents and help them gain skills that lead them to independence.
 Brian Chamberlain, Charles Franks with Dr. Tom Albert who is Running for Mayor and his wife Laura Albert at the Project Lazarus Gala
After all those parties on Friday night, I didn't get up to witness the beginning of the fun Red Dress Run on Saturday morning,  but no matter where I went, there was a sea of red dresses that kept going until late that night.

I started my day by attending the lovely funeral service for my darling friend, Rip Naquin, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. His passing was a huge loss to the LGBT community of New Orleans, as well as to the rest of the city. The newspaper he founded, AMBUSH, was a voice for the LGBT community since the 1980s and the publication was a wonderful supporter of the performing arts. R.I.P Rip. (http://www.tharpsontheimerfh.com/tributes/Robert-Naquin).

On Saturday, It was another one of those nights that I needed a clone because there were more parties than I could physically attend.

That evening, in addition to the annual Dirty Linen Night on Royal Street, there were three birthday parties that I was invited to. The first one was in Baton Rouge for former Governor Edwin Edwards who was celebrating his 90th birthday. I did not make it to that one but I did get photos from several attendees.

Tom Benson's 90th Birthday Celebration was indeed a celebration at the lovely, beautifully decorated New Orleans Museum of Art. I enjoyed so much seeing them and so many of my darling friends. I loved the entertainment by The Victory Belles, Soprano Sarah Jane McMahon and harpist Rachel Van Voorhess. Guests were treated to a pack of Dixie Beer at the end of the night! Tom Benson's 90th Birthday Celebration https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154580105725870.1073742909.581200869&type=1&l=cfa1a9728d.

The 3rd birthday celebration was a fantastic and delicious Cuban Fiesta in honor of Dr. Carlos Trujillo in occasion of his 60th Birthday. It was held at the courtyard of his residence, the historic former home of Mother Cabrini in the French Quarter. Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet-style Cuban food that included a roasted 40 lb. pig, dancing to the sounds of AsheSon, the recipient of the Big Easy Award for Best Latin Band which was led by guitar virtuoso Javier Olondo. Congratulations to his companion Bryan Drude for an excellent job in putting this fabulous Cuban fiesta together! https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154580742570870.1073742910.581200869&type=1&l=4cc80c00a1

Before, I share all the fun upcoming events I want to share the news of the passing of our darling friend Micaela "Kell" Kelly Bennett, beloved wife of Dorian M. Bennett and adoring mother of Delia Caroline Bennett. Kell passed away in her New Orleans home surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, August 9, following a strong and inspiring fight against a rare form of cancer. Visitation at 11 am and funeral services at 1 pm will be held on Wednesday, August 16 at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, 1025 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans. Honorary pallbearers include Jamie Bernstein, Glade Bilby, Bob Edmundson, Greer Farris, Herbert Halpern, Allen Kelly, Tom Reagan, Jerry St. Pierre, Kelly C. Sills and Kenneth F. Sills. Complete obit may be found on The Advocate. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit lakelawnmetairie.com.http://obits.nola.com/obituaries/nola/obituary.aspx?n=micaela-kelly-bennett&pid=186353812&fhid=5630

Darlings, this upcoming week is going to be another fun one that I hope we will all enjoy. 
But I want to make sure that you have this date in your calendar: 

Save Date: 
Round Table Luncheon Saluting the Cultural Arts - Wednesday, September 13 at noon at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel (full details at the end of calendar below)

I am going to start my week by attending a lovely luncheon on Tuesday at the Sheraton Hotel hosted by The Health & Education Alliance of Louisiana. HEAL is hosting a gathering highlighting the Coordinated Care for the Whole Child Program to inform key supporters of their progress and to encourage and increase support from others.

Statistics show that at least 40 percent of our school children do not successfully complete school. Through this luncheon HEAL hopes it will inform people of the opportunity to provide Louisiana’s children with the health they deserve so they can succeed in school and become qualified and productive citizens. It is not a lack of resources holding them back; it is a lack of will to recognize the solution and to work to achieve a healthy and educated life for all.
Tonight, I am looking forward to attending  Sake Hop presented by New Orleans Hotel Collection. New Orleans Sake Hop, the city’s only sake bar crawl, will be held on Tuesday, August 15 from 5:30-8:30pm. The spirited “hop” through the French Quarter will feature complimentary Joto Sake samplings served by celebrity bartenders at each of the five participating locations. Additionally, each bar will feature a unique Asian-inspired cocktail made with NOLA Distilling Vodka (made from Louisiana sweet potatoes) that will be available for sale during the event. Tickets are $10 per person and are available in advance ONLY at sakehop.com. The event benefits Southern Food & Beverage Museum. Must be 21 or older to attend.
On Wednesday, August 16, I am looking forward to attending  from 5 to 7 p.m.  an  American Heart Association's  Research Reception at Tulane Medical Center, 1415 Tulane Avenue that will show  A hands on look at research being performed right here in New Orleans.


Lafete News Link August 15, 2017
http://conta.cc/2uYNu7g

Love New Orleans & She'll Love You Back.
Sincerely,
Frank Stansbury
Lafete News



Darlings, I am already salivating over the upcoming Gold Medal Chefs Gala, Thursday, August 17 at the Morial Convention Center, La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom. The gala features a five-course seated dinner with dishes prepared by celebrity chefs, as well as an awards ceremony to honor those in our community who make a significant impact in the lives of others. 

The Gold Medal Chefs Gala provides a platform to publicly recognize those individuals in Louisiana's hospitality industry who have made a significant impact in the lives of others. Please join us to celebrate them!

Gold Medal Chefs Gala

 

The Gold Medal Chefs gala features a five-course seated dinner with dishes prepared by celebrity chefs, as well as an awards ceremony to honor those in our community who make a significant impact in the lives of others. 

Details
  • Thursday, August 17, 2017
  • Morial Convention Center, La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom
  • Ticketed Event, Individual Seats and Tables Available
  • Cocktail Hour with Open Bar
  • Silent & Live Auctions
  • Awards Presentation
  • Five-Course Dinner featuring Celebrity Louisiana Chefs

August 19
 Fifth annual “Mom’s Night Out” to benefit  New Orleans Moms Blog at Ogden Museum of Southern Art: 925 Camp St.
 Throw on your yoga pants or pajamas or bathrobe and make a night of it with plentiful food and sweet treats, spirits courtesy Sazerac, a variety of adult beverages, shopping and an evening of fun without the kids.Contact: NewOrleansMomsBlog.com
 
August 19
“101 Donations Presents ‘Bow Wow Luau’” at  City Bark-Arbor Room at City Park: 30 Zachary Taylor Drive
This year’s event will feature a tropical theme with music, a silent auction and specialty drinks and food with the goal of raising $60,000 for continued dog park improvements and amenities and ongoing major grounds and gate maintenance, as well as the start of an endowment and pet memorial area project.
$75/Presale Ticket; $101/Ticket; Tables available-Contact: 483-9377
 
August 19
Brewsiana: Craft Beer & Music Festival at the House of Blues
 The best of Louisiana's Brews, Bands and Bites all under one roof! 21+ / ID Required. LINE-UP: In the Music Hall - Dash Rip Rock, Where Y'Acht, DJ Otto in the Voodoo Garden - Fortifiers, Boogie Long, & Sexy Dex.


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August 2017

NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM MONTH is a collaboration between museums of all sizes across the greater New Orleans area. It offers museum members the opportunity to visit all participating institutions, FREE OF CHARGE, using their current membership throughout the month of August. Not a member of a local museum yet? Join a participating museum today!
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Don't miss the city's ONLY Sake bar crawl! 
Stroll through The French Quarter while enjoying complimentary sake tastings at each of the five featured bars and chatting with celebrity bartenders 
Sip specially created, Asian-inspired cocktails available for sale at each location
Win great door prizes including hotel stays by visiting each location and getting your Sake Hop passport stamped

Click here to purchase tickets! 
Ticket sales will benefit Southern Food & Beverage Museum
Date - Tuesday, August 15Time - 5:30-8:30pmPrice - $10
Start your cocktail journey at any of the participating bars to receive your Sake Hop passport, which will be validated at each visited location. Turn in your completed passport and you will be entered into a drawing to win great prizes including a two-night stay at one of New Orleans Hotel Collection's hotels.
Additionally, "Sake Hoppers" can vote for their favorite bartender, who will be named the Sake Hop Champion and receive a prize.

 $10 to attend - Space is limited so get your tickets today 
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TOUR THE PRIDE OF PLACE CONTEMPORARY ART EXHIBITION
Wednesdays are free thanks to The Helis Foundation. Join us!

Free Wednesdays at the New Orleans Museum of Art
Where: New Orleans Museum of Art, One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124
When: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome, free admission is for Louisiana residents
How: Just show up
Free admission on Wednesdays for Louisiana resi
dents sponsored by the Helis Foundation
AUG17

Blues, Booze & BBQ

Public
 · Hosted by Windsor Court

Break out of the barrel in Cocktail Bar for an exclusive whiskey pairing dinner featuring live music and a barbecue-inspired, four-course menu. 

Menu and drink pairings include:
Creole tomato and watermelon salad paired with an Old Fashioned featuring Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, sugar and bitters.

Smoked brisket, baby back ribs, smoked sausage and sides paired with a whiskey flight of Old Forester Whiskey Row Series – 1870 Original Batch, 1897 Bottled in Bond and 1920 Prohibition Style.

Berry cobbler with La Louisane, made with Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Benedictine, Dolin Sweet Vermouth, bitters and Absinthe.

Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey’s Sinatra Select farewell drink. 

Please call 504.522.1994 to make reservations.
$90 plus tax and gratuity.
Thursday, August 17




Join us for the second installment of our new favorite summer event! We'll be gathering at Salon by Sucré next Thursday evening from 5:30pm to 7:30pm to raise another glass to our beloved French Quarter.
We're inviting neighbors new and old to get to know each other and share stories about our little community. So if you've just moved to the Quarter, come meet some of the classic crowd. And if you've been here since Spanish rule, help us welcome the new krewe!
Happy hour will be in full swing, with specials on delicious cocktails and snacks, and a gorgeous balcony on which to enjoy them!
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JOIN US at THE MARIGNY OPERA HOUSE
725 St. Ferdinand Street. New Orleans, LA 70117

Added Performances:

Saturday, August 19 - 7:30PM (Closing)
Friday, August 18 - 7:30PM
Thursday, August 17 - 7:30PM
 


"Love Letters" and Luke


"Love Letters" with Nell Nolan and Dennis Woltering
Directed by Carl Walker
Written by A.R. Gurney


Friday, August 18th - 8:00 pm
Sunday, August 20th - 5:00 pm
Nell Nolan
Dennis Woltering
Great New Location: Little Gem Saloon
445 S. Rampart St @ Poydras St


Tickets $25 cafe table seating
$20 row seating

Call 504-267-4863
Parking in nearby paid lots or on the street
With permission: Dramatists Play Service
To benefit the Lucas Regnier Medical Care Account
Luke is Nell's nephew by marriage, who was in a devastating bicycle accident. He has been unable to return to work full time. He is married to Nell's niece/godchild Anna with whom he has four young children. 

Reduced adoptions fees continue into August! Adopt a new cat, kitten or adult dog for $50 every weekend this month. In addition to a fantasic new furry friend, your adoption package comes with your pet being spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. You can't beat that!

  for more info.
Regular adoption procedures apply.
New Orleans, LA 70118 
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The annual Krewe of OAK Mid-Summer Mardi Gras parade  
7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19 
to coincide with the upcoming solar eclipse.

The theme of the krewe's 31st parade is "Dirty One XXXI Coming In Hot." The logo illustrates a rainbow unicorn riding atop an intercontinental ballistic missile, crossing the path of the fiery eclipse ... with some possible Freudian implications.
The krewe's name refers to the Uptown Street, of course, but it is also an anagram for "outrageous and kinky."
The 2017 Queen is Stacy Morigeau and King Robustus XXXI is Doug Trager. Dance groups such as Tap Dat, The Organ Grinders, the Muff-A-Lottas and a contingent from the Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus will march with the Krewe of OAK. Some estimates put the number of paraders as high as 10,000. 
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BOW WOW LUAU
Saturday, August 19, 2017
7-11pm
Arbor Room at City Park's Popp Fountain
Get your Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts ready for our FUN-raiser on August 19, 2017 in the Arbor Room at Popp Fountain. Proceeds benefit New Orleans City Park's NOLA City Bark. Board Members Dean Howard and Scott Discon are Co-Chairing the best doggone party of the summer!

City Park Catering will be serving tasty luau delicacies while you enjoy wine, beer and our signature Canine Kahuna cocktail from Velvet Cactus. Our very own Prescriptions Band will be performing live while you dance the heat away and bid on the celebrated competitive silent auction and raffle.

Check out the great Sponsorships perks and early bird tickets available now! http://neworleanscitypark.com/city-bark-test/events

 Get exposure for your business by donating an auction item or be a part by volunteering at the event.

Luau attire encouraged. Proceeds will help with capital improvements and major maintenance items of NOLA City Bark... WOOF!

 20 

BB's Stage Door Canteen
Sunday Swing

Sundays, August 20, and 27

Now in its 12th season, Sunday Swing is a popular summer program featuring local swing bands and dance instructors.
August 13 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Location: BB's Stage Door Canteen
945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Dance lessons, 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Live music, 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Now in its 12th season, Sunday Swing is a popular summer program featuring local swing bands and dance instructors.
Tickets are $10 per person; free for Museum Members. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival. For more information, call 504-528-1944 x 267.

Save Date: 
Round Table Luncheon Saluting the Cultural Arts - Wednesday, September 13 at noon at the Bourbon Orleans hotel



Darlings, I am so excited that most of my invited guests to the annual Round Table Luncheon Saluting the Cultural Arts has responded that they are coming. 
The Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, September 13 at noon at the historical ballroom of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. 
The luncheon will be co-hosted by Scott Hutcheson, Senior Adviser to the Mayor for Cultural Economy and Society columnist and blogger Margarita Bergen. 
Among the speakers that has been  invited  are Lt.Governor Billy Nungesser; Jenny Hamilton, Director of  New Orleans Ballet Association; Conductor Robert Lyall , Director of New Orleans Opera, Maestro Dennis Assaf, Director of Jefferson Performing Arts;  James William Boyd, CEO of LPO; Neil A. Barclay, Director and CEO of CAC; Maxwell Williams, Artist Director of Le Petit Theatre and Dr. Maxim Samarov, Conductor of New Orleans Chamber Orchestra, Nick Stillman, 
President & CEO of Arts Council New Orleans and William Pittman Andrews, Executive Director of the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and Dave Hurlbert from Marigny Opera House 
Live entertainment will be by talented Soprano Kathleen Halm Simmons   accompanied on the piano by  Timothy Todd SimmonsExecutive Director at New Orleans Opera Association.
 Pianist Jim Walpole will play the piano before and after the Round Table Luncheon. 
So please make your reservation now before it gets sold-out like it last month. The $55 all-inclusive price includes a 3-course gourmet luncheon, champagne/wines and valet parking. Please make your reservations by calling Judy LeBlanc at (504) 571-4672 or email her at Judy.LeBlanc@BourbonOrleans.comRESERVATIONS AND PREPAYMENT ARE REQUIRED. Walk-ins will not be accepted, as the hotel will only prepare meals for the number of guests who have made reservations.



collisionSave the date: Culture Collision 9 on August 30
August 30 | 5:30-8 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp Street
Admission is free.
Mark your calendars for Culture Collision 9, which will take place Wednesday, August 30, at the Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp Street, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
The free event serves as a cultural happy hour with displays from more than 70 arts organizations, including The Historic New Orleans Collection. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the featured organizations, enjoy live performances, and survey the city's upcoming cultural season. There is also a free raffle and a cash bar.
Save the date for this free annual event, and be sure to visit THNOC's table! We just might have a few goodies for you. Come put your historical knowledge to the test at THNOC's table, and we will have prizes for you.
Culture Collision is hosted by New Orleans Public Radio, 89.9 FM, WWNO, and is sponsored by DEVENEY. The annual event is organized by WWNO, DEVENEY, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, the New Orleans Museum of Art, the New Orleans Ballet Association, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and Southern Rep Theatre. More information is available at culturenola.com.