Tuesday, April 3, 2018

A Toast to New Orleans April 3-10: Julio y Cesar at Evenings with Enrique/ Hubbard Street Dance Chicago/ “Cochon Cotillion XXII” and more.....

A Toast to New Orleans April 3-10: Julio y Cesar at Evenings with Enrique/ Hubbard Street Dance Chicago/ “Cochon Cotillion XXII” and more.....





Darlings,

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter and Passover!

It feels so good to be back in my beloved New Orleans. I spent a very relaxing Holy Week with my brother, Lorenzo Bergen, at his time-share condo in Destin, Florida.

I returned just in time to participate in the annual Chris Owens’ Easter Parade

Sammy Steele and Melanie Cole 

Mother Nature blessed us with the most sunny and glorious day to participate in Chris' 2018 parade. I feel so fortunate to live in New Orleans and to be invited by my darling friend, Sammy Steele, to be chosen to ride on his #2 float. After the parade, we had a delicious luncheon and entertainment by my favorite band, The Yat Pack. Thank you, Sammy and Chris. It was a great event!

I also got to view the annual Gay Easter Parade 

19th Annual Easter Gay Parade

Darlings, as always, it was so much fun to see the Easter Gay Parade and this year it was very special since one of my best friends, Carl Mack, was the Grand Marshal of this 19th annual happening, along with Nicole Lynn Foxx on Easter Sunday, April 1, benefiting Food For Friends. The parade showcased the fashion and creativity of the entire LGBT community with gentlemen in summer suits/tuxes with hats, and ladies in Easter suits/dresses with Easter hats. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155146263495870.1073743131.581200869&type=1&l=6d68b34511

On a sad note, I am sorry to hear of the passing of someone I met only briefly two years ago but it was a very memorable occasion. Ela Weissberger of Tappan, New York was a Holocaust survivor who, as a child in a Nazi concentration camp in her native Czechoslovakia, performed in a children’s opera called Brundibar. Ela was in New Orleans with her daughter, Tammy Grinshpon, in May 2016 when the New Orleans Opera Association staged a presentation of Brundibar at the World War II Museum. My darling friend and editor, Dean Shapiro, brought them over to meet me at my former art gallery on Decatur Street. Ela was very charming and was having a wonderful time during her first and only visit to New Orleans. I was honored to meet her and be photographed with her. She lived an eventful life, touring the world while speaking and writing about her experiences during her forced detainment 70 years earlier. May her soul RIP!
 Holocaust and Brundibar Opera Survivor Ela Weissberger,Margarita Bergen  and Tammy Grinshpon


On a much happier note, my congratulations and well wishes go to Jonathan Shapiro, Dean’s son, on his marriage to Sabrina Dunnam this past Saturday in Mobile. I had just passed through Mobile on my way back from Florida while the wedding was going on and would have loved to stop by had I known sooner. The happy couple is now honeymooning in Hawaii and I wish them all the best on their future together!

Darlings, I am so happy I got a chance to rest because the month of April  is going to be a very hectic one, especially since it is my birthday month (April 24), on   April 18  “Prix d’Elegance Luncheon & Fashion Show” , April 20  “WYES Studio 12 Gala” in addition to featuring the French Quarter Festival (April 12-15), International Weekend commemorating the New Orleans Tricentennial (April 20-22) and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April 27-29).  
So please enjoy what our beloved New Orleans has to offer this first week of a great month. 


Please enjoy the digital copy of New Orleans Living magazine. 
: Everything Al Fresco! The birds are chirping; the flowers are blooming; and the weather is warming — springtime in New Orleans is an excellent season to enjoy everything al fresco.



Tuesday, April 3 
Book Talk: Buildings of New Orleans by authors Karen Kingsley (Professor Emerita, Tulane University) and Lake Douglas (Professor, Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture, LSU) 
6:30–8:00 p.m.
Louisiana Humanities Center

The definitive and most up-to-date guide to the architecture and landscapes of New Orleans' urban fabric through descriptions of nearly 300 buildings, parks, open spaces, and lesser-known places. Organized into thirteen neighborhood tours, the guidebook also 
highlights buildings in neighboring parishes and includes three excursions up and down the Mississippi River. 175 photographs and 23 maps. Read more:

Tuesday, April 3
Octavia Books presents  FIRE IN THE HOLE: The Spirit Work of Fi Yi Yi and the Mandingo Warriors




Please join  Octavia Books  at 6 p.m.  for a special evening celebrating FIRE IN THE HOLE - the new book from The Neighborhood Story Project. Editor Rachel Breunlin will facilitate a conversation with Big Chief Victor Harris, master sewer Jack Robertson, and master drummer Wesley Phillips of Fi Yi Yi and the Mandingo Warriors.  Octavia Books | 513 Octavia St. | New Orleans, LA 70115 | 504-899-READ  octaviabooks.com

Tuesday Lafete News Link April 3, 2018
https://conta.cc/2GtcZs0

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


G r e a t   A u t h o r   E v e n t s  at Garden Districk Book shop 
Events April 3rd - 12th
        (click on book covers for more details)



C. S. Harris


Tues. April 3rd
6:00 - 7:30 PM





Lake Douglas &
Karen Kingsley

Sat. April 7th
1:00 - 3:00 PM



Sloane Crosley
in conversation with
Nathaniel Rich
Fri. April 6th
6:00 - 7:30 PM
Arleen Cerbone Faustina

            

Garden District Book Shop / 2727 Prytania St New Orleans, Louisiana 70130 / 895-2266

Wednesday, April 4
"Evenings with Enrique" with Julio and Cesar Band
Not to be missed: my favorite Latin band, Julio and Cesar, will be performing in the New Orleans Botanical Garden in the first “Evenings with Enrique” concert in honor of the late renowned sculptor, Enrique Alferez.

During this series of free events in the Botanical Garden, the Garden will extend its hours every Wednesday during the month of April. Free hours will last from 10 am-8 pm. Special programing from 5-8 pm, Wednesday, April 4, starting with Julio and Cesar, guitarist brothers from Guatemala.

Located inside New Orleans City Park, near the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Botanical Garden is one of the few remaining examples of public garden design from the 1930s Works Progress Administration. It showcases the Art Deco influences of three renowned talents of the era: architect Richard Koch, landscape architect William Wiedorn, and Enrique Alférez.

Each week in April, "Evenings with Enrique" will feature local musicians playing among the collection of 15 sculptures by the famed Mexican-American artist. Visitors to the garden will be able to view the work of Alférez under enhanced lighting and fire baskets suspended from the branches of a centuries-old live oak tree. 

Wednesday, April 4
Hotel Storyville Open House
5:30-8:30 pm
Storyville Hotel Garden
1261 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans 
Free and Open to the Public

Wednesday, April 4 
The Historic New Orleans Collection will screen the documentary The March 
In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., local activist and community organizer, William "Bill" Rouselle, will introduce the film and discuss how King's work and legacy affected civil rights work here in New Orleans. 6-7:30 p.m. Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres Street in the French Quarter
The March, narrated by Denzel Washington, is the story of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963, told by the people who organized and participated in it. It includes interviews with some of the key actors, members of the inner circles of the core organizational groups, Hollywood supporters and civil rights campaigners, President John F. Kennedy administration officials and the ordinary people who became part of the crowd of over 200,000 participants who thronged to Washington, D.C. by plane, bus and car. And, as is well known, it was during this historic, landmark event that Dr. King gave his famous “I have a dream” speech.
Admission is free with Reservations: wrc@hnoc.org or (504) 523-4662
Wednesday, April 4
YLC Wednesday at the Square Presents 
Sweet Crude with opener Travers Geoffray
Thursday, April 5
Herman Leonard: Documenting the Giants of Jazz 
The New Orleans Jazz Museum, in conjunction with Herman Leonard Photography, LLC and the GRAMMY Museum® L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles, debut a new photo exhibition, Herman Leonard: Documenting the Giants of Jazz.

The exhibit showcases some of the most iconic photos shot by prolific photographer Herman Leonard.

The exhibition opens with a reception at the New Orleans Jazz Museum on Thursday, April 5, from 6pm to 9 pm, featuring live music from the Detroit Brooks Trio, refreshments, and a cash bar.



Thursday, April 5
9th Annual Ed Renwick Lecture: Five Perspectives, One New Orleans
Four of New Orleans’ five living mayors, as well as Mayor-elect LaToya Cantrell, will be on hand to discuss the city’s past, present and future, making for an exciting and informative evening.

The talk begins at 7 p.m. in the Louis J. Roussel Performance Hall, located in the Communications/Music Complex at Loyola University New Orleans, 6363 St. Charles Ave. Visit the Loyola University of New Orleans Institute of Politics website for more information.
 April 5-May 3
LAFRENIERE LIVE SPRING CONCERT SERIES presents on Thursday, April 5:   THE WISE GUYS

 5

  • Presented By: Lafreniere Park
  • Dates: April 5- May 3-Time: 6:30-8:30 pm-FREE
  • Location: Al Copeland Meadow Concert Stage, Lafreniere Park
  • Address: 3000 Downs Boulevard, Metairie, LA
  • Phone: (504) 838-4389
April 5-9
2018 Ragtime Festival Lineup

Thursday, April 5
Orange Kellin’s New Orleans Deluxe Orchestra
Marigny Opera House, 6-9 pm

Friday, April 6
The New John Robichaux Society Orchestra
Scandia House, 6-8 pm

Saturday, April 7
The New Leviathan Oriental Foxtrot Orchestra
Rock n Bowl – 11 am-3 pm

Sunday, April 8
11 am-12 noon - Richard Scott
12-1 pm - Seva Venet’s Storyville Stringband
1-2 pm - Mark Braud & Lil Fawley
2-3 pm - 
Cécile Savage
3-4 pm - Steve Pistorius & the Southern Syncopators
The New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint
Free and Open to the Public
Monday, April 9Lars Enegran’s New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra,Southport Hall - 7-10 pm
Thursday, April 5


On April 5th, 2018, the city of New Orleans will celebrate its 300th anniversary. As a gift from the city of Namur, Belgium, FedEx will transport a giant saxophone to New Orleans for the city's tricentennial celebration. This special saxophone was painted by Dimitri Perpete (shown in the photo). The saxophone will be presented to the city, as the double-sided painting on the saxophone commemorates the musical connection between the instrument's birthplace and the world's capital of jazz.
FedEx donated shipping of the giant saxophone from Houyet, Belgium to New Orleans, USA, and it arrived safely just in time for Mardi Gras. The dedication of the sculpture will take place during the April 5th tricentennial celebration.
You can be sure that this celebration will be one to remember, as the sounds of the saxophone playing will ignite chants of 'Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler,' a Cajun expression meaning 'let the good times roll'!




April 5-8 
   
Thursday, April 5
WrestleMania-

Thursday, April 5



City Park N. O. Logo


Thursdays at Twilight Garden Concert Series
This weekly series showcases a changing lineup of musicians and bands starting with pianist and entertainer Phil Melancon on April 5
Pavilion of the Two Sisters in the Botanical Garden-Hours: Gates open at 5 pm; music begins at 6 pm
Parking: There is a free parking lot across the street from the Botanical Garden.Admission: $10/person

April 6 - 15
Rivertown Theater Presents Mary Poppins, JR. on The Main Stage  For Theatergoers of All Ages
The producers of Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts continue their commitment to showcase and develop the talents of budding local thespians with this very special production of Mary Poppins, Jr. The delightful musical will feature young performers from around the metropolitan New Orleans area. Cast members will be in the lobby after the show for a meet and greet with the audience.

 
The producers of Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts continue their commitment to showcase and develop the talents of budding local thespians with this very special production of Mary Poppins, Jr. The delightful musical will feature young performers from around the metropolitan New Orleans area. Cast members will be in the lobby after the show for a meet and greet with the audience. 7 to 8:15 p.m. Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts,325 Minor St ,Kenner, LA 70062 United States Website:http://www.rivertowntheaters.com/#!home/mainPage


Sat, April 7
Road to the Final Fork: Orleans chefs seek red bean title
The Krewe of Red Beans is launching a month-long competition Saturday involving 55 restaurants and chefs. It's called "the Road to the Final Fork."



Bean Madness Championship Match
by Krewe of Red Beans
$15 - $50

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bean-madness-championship-match-tickets-43528633314
The Krewe of Red Beans presents the 2nd annual "Bean Madness"
A single-elimination tournament of 57 New Orleans chef's and restaurants to see who makes the best red beans in the city !
Proceeds go to two local non-profits, Anna's Place (www.annasplacenola.org) and Make Music Nola (www.makemusicnola.org)
This is the championship match - everyone who attends is also a judge of the beans!
Live Music:
Margie Perez and her Cosa Cubana
DJ Alsky
beer included in ticket price
and silent auction
4:30 to 6:30pm is the bean-tasting / judging . . . .
then we crown our champion!
Sat, April 7, 2018
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT
Southern Food and Beverage Museum & Museum of the American Cocktail
1504 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard
New Orleans, LA 70113




Saturday, April 7  
One night only!
Saturday, April 7
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Presented by the New Orleans Ballet Association-This special 40th anniversary performance includes the revival of a jazzy swing classic!
8 pm- Back by popular demand! Celebrating 40 years as a driving force of American contemporary dance, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago returns with a special anniversary program that spotlights master works from all four decades of the company’s illustrious history.  From Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo’s newest creation and trailblazing first hit by the brilliant Nacho Duato to the poetic dances of Crystal Pite and a jazzy swing classic by founding Artistic Director Lou Conte, this versatile and virtuosic ensemble of dancers will simply “take your breath away.”
Mahalia Jackson Theater, 1419 Basin Street in Louis Armstrong Park, New Orleans
Info and Tickets: (504) 522-0996 or www.nobadance.com 

Saturday, April 7   
Bridge House / Grace House “Cochon Cotillion XXII”
This annual event serves as a parody of traditional black-tie galas and of Mardi Gras Balls. Guests attend the event in tacky attire, in pig-themed clothing or other costumes. The gala features a King and Queen, a live band, a mini Mardi Gras parade, celebrity emcees, food from local restaurants, libations, a large silent auction, a raffle and more.Costume as your favorite New Orleanian as Cochon celebrates the Tricentennial. Let’s ensure BH/GH’s success for the future. 6PM - 11PM at  Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World,                                 1380 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans, LA 70130

My darling friend Betsie Gambel along with Bill Mimeles will be 2018 Monarchs



    Cochon Cotillion XXII This legendary event is a true parody of traditional black-tie galas and of the more customary Mardi Gras Balls. It’s a virtual who’s who of New Orleans finest citizens! Saturday, April 7, 2018 7:00 to 11:00 PM (Patron Party 6-7 PM) Mardi…
    BRIDGEHOUSE.ORG

















Saturday, April 7
The “Porsche of New Orleans Leukemia Cup Regatta” presents the “Party on Lake Pontchartrain.” After a day of sailing, everyone is invited back to the Southern Yacht Club’s third floor for a party featuring live music, tastings from 24 different restaurants, wine pull and liquor pull, a live and silent auction and more.
Tickets: $100/ticket; $1,000/table
Location: Southern Yacht Club
Contact: 837-0945

Saturday, April 7

Jazz & Heritage Concert Series presents Doreen Ketchens
Shows at 8:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
The George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center
1225 N. Rampart Street, Treme New Orleans

Doreen Ketchens is no ordinary street musician. Although when home in New Orleans she can often be found on Royal Street performing for tourists and other French Quarter strollers, she is an international attraction at festivals and concerts and has performed for four United States presidents. Doreen is one of the first and few female bandleaders in New Orleans, and a music educator. Click to read more: 

Saturday, April 7
Raintree Children and Family Services“Paint the Town Green”

This annual evening consists of a Patron Party, live auction, silent auction, music by The Wise Guys and food from New Orleans’ finest restaurants.
Tickets: $85/Ticket
Location: Generations Hall
Contact: 899-9045, extension 235
 
Saturday, April 7
Audubon Nature Institute “Asian-Pacific American Society Festival”
A colorful celebration of Asian pride, partnership and progress at Audubon Zoo featuring live entertainment; handmade crafts from India, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia and other Asian countries; internationally themed displays; and authentic Asian dishes.
Tickets: Included with admission/membership
Location: Audubon Zoo
Contact: 581-4629, AudubonNatureInstitute.org
 
Sunday, April 8 
Music Under the Oaks returns to Audubon Park this April!
Sunday, April 8: Loyola University School of Music

Bring your lawn chairs and join us for a special concert series to celebrate the Audubon Park Conservancy presented by Bellwether Technology andIBERIABANK. Food and drink will be available to purchase. Contributions to the Conservancy directly support the annual care and improvements of Audubon Park, including ongoing needs such as lawn care, seasonal flower planting, and the protection of historic live oak trees.

Event Location: Newman Bandstand at Audubon Park

Admission: This series is free and open to the public -
Time: 5:00pm - 6:30pm




 Tuesday,  April 10
 Best Chefs of Louisiana. 
Best Chefs of Louisiana 2018
ACFNO AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION OF NEW ORLEANS
The American Culinary Federation New Orleans Chapter will host The Best Chefs of Louisiana 2018 to feature the outstanding chefs in our region. Past honorees have included Chefs Leah Chase and Paul Prudhomme. This years event will remember our beloved Frank Davis, and celebrate the incomparable Frank Brigtsen. A special appearance will be made by Commander's Palace own, Chef Tory McPhail.
The 8th annual Best Chefs of Louisiana Fundraiser will be held this year on April 10th, 2018 at the fabulous venue of the Lakefront Airport. The chefs event gives recognition to select chefs and honors them for their contribution to the New Orleans culinary scene. It's also an opportunity for them to showcase their talent by serving a sampling of their signature dishes to the attendees. In addition to the amazing food, the party will feature live entertainment, live and silent auctions and an open bar. Get your tickets now bit.ly/BestChefs2018


The ACFNO's Best Chefs of Louisiana fundraiser will benefit ACFNO culinary scholarships fund.
The American Culinary Federation New Orleans chapter offers educational scholarships to college students pursuing their career in the culinary arts field.
ACF is the largest professional chefs organization in North America. The ACF offers culinary competitions,certification, a national apprenticeship program, regional and national events, publications and much more to help foster the growth of professional chefs and the foodservice industry.

Enjoy your week!

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