A Toast to New Orleans: Dec. 19-26 Irvin Berlin's White Christmas/NOLA Christmas Fest/ Home for the Holidays and much more...... Happy Holidays A Toast to New Orleans: Dec. 19-26 Irvin Berlin's White Christmas/NOLA Christmas Fest/ Home for the Holidays and much more...... Happy Holidays

Group photo by Frank Stansbury of Round Table Luncheon Saluting the Holidays and New Orleans  Tricentennial

From left to right Entertainers Marshall Harris, Becky Allen  Speaker Sybil Morial Co-hosts Margarita Bergen and Mark Romig, speakers Patti Lock of Tall Ships of America, Lisa Tull of Republic National Beverages. In the background  Pianist Jim Walpole, Speaker Priscilla Lawrence, Entertainers Carl Mack , Burlesque dancer Trixie Minx , winemaker Dr. James Moises and chanteuse

Suzaune Yee McKamey

Suzaune Yee McKamey

Darlings, Happy Holidays! 

I have been delighted to enjoy the myriad of festive soirees that I have been invited to. But, as you probably know, the highlight of my week was co-hosting along with my darling friend, Mark Romig, my annual sold-out Round Table Luncheon Saluting the Holidays and the upcoming New Orleans Tricentennial at the Bourbon Orleans.

The 225 guests at the bubbly luncheon consumed seven cases of champagne in addition to two cases of delicious Moises Rose Pinot Noir generously donated by winemaker, Dr. James Moises, of Bijou Wines. According to our guests, it was the best ever and I must thank our speakers, Hon. Carlos Ponce, Consul General of Mexico; the Cultural and Historical Co-chairs of the New Orleans Tricentennial, Priscilla Lawrence and former First Lady Sybil Morial; 

Romi Gonzalez, who spoke about the participation of the Hispanic community in the Tricentennial; Jenny Hamilton, Executive Director of New Orleans Ballet; and Patti Lock, Director of Special Projects for Tall Ships of America.

The live entertainment was by a myriad of entertainers that will include Becky Allen, Carl Mack, Marshall Harris, pianist Jim Walpole, Suzaune Yee McKamey, Conductor Paul Mauffray,  burlesque dancer Trixie Minx. Guests enjoyed a very delicious luncheon and the four cases of cavas donated by Republic National Beverage represented by Lisa Tull who spoke about the Cristalina Cava in addition to three mores cases.

Please put in your calendar that the next Round Table Luncheon  on Wednesday, January 17, 2018. 

 it is not too early to start thinking about my next Round Table Luncheon on Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at noon at the historical Ballroom of the Bourbon Orleans.   Invited authors are Jimmy Blanchard and his new book "Magnificent Obsessions"  New Orleans Buildings and Residences and Bob Carr "The Packard Limousine"

WE will be joined by Al "Carnival Time" Johnson along with Becky Allen, Marshall Harris, Carl Mack and pianist Jim Walpole  will provide the live entertainment.

In addition Mardi Gras Poster QueenAndrea Mistretta  will be unveiling her 2018 Mardi Gras poster Saluting the Tricentennial.   

https://www.facebook.com/frank.stansbury1/media_set?set=a.1915491898465292.1073742041.100000135025518&type=3

I also enjoyed attending these other festive soirees:

Exhibit from the Archives of the Consulate of France from 1804-2017

I was invited to attend a lovely opening reception at the residence of Consul General of France, Vincent Sciama. It was the opening of an exhibit from the Archives of the Consulate of France from 1804-2017.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154884933585870.1073743036.581200869&type=1&l=2273cce2c9

Holiday Market and Release of "Gallier Hall- A Pictorial History" by Cheryl Q. Landrieu and Matalin M Carville.

 I attended a lovely soiree at the spectacular, newly renovated Gallier Hall. It was hosted by our first Lady Cheryl Landrieu and featured a HOLIDAY MARKET of Tricentennial merchandise and an awesome Gallier Hall Preview, in addition to the official release of "Gallier Hall- A Pictorial History" by Cheryl Q. Landrieu and Matalin M Carville.

 

Press Club of NO Holiday Soiree

The Press Club of New Orleans hosted its annual Holiday Soiree at the lovely Degas House on Esplanade Street. I always enjoy seeing my darling friends and enjoyed very much the delicious cuisine and decadent libations. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154884947475870.1073743037.581200869&type=1&l=52c31fdcde

French Quarter Citizens 2017-Annual Holiday Celebration

I enjoyed going to the lovely and delicious French Quarter Citizens 2017 Annual Holiday Celebration on December 13 at Latrobe's, 403 Royal Street.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154887368125870.1073743038.581200869&type=1&l=8c7d159b0b

The Advocate Holiday Soiree 2017

Darlings, what a fabulous night to attend fabulous soirees. My first one was hosted by Dathel and John Georges, owners of the New Orleans Advocate at their office on St. Charles Avenue.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154888566965870.1073743039.581200869&type=1&l=57ae437bf5

Hispanic Young Professionals of Louisiana Holiday Party

I attended the lovely soiree of the Young Professionals of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at Fogo de Chao. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154888585665870.1073743040.581200869&type=1&l=a2d7a18ac1

Patrick's Bar and Vin Jingle Bell Holiday Party

Patrick van Hoorebeek's annual festive Jingle Bell Holiday Party was spectacular. His lovely bar, Patrick's Bar and Vin, outdoor terrace and the Courtyard of Hotel Mazarin were the setting of his awesome holiday soiree. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154892215170870.1073743041.581200869&type=1&l=c3853a6917

Alvin Albe Jr. and Virginia Boulet's Jolly Holiday Soiree

“’Tis the season to be jolly" and in my case all lit up. I loved attending the annual Holiday Soiree hosted by Alvin Albe Jr. and Virginia Boulet in the exquisite mansion on Esplanade Avenue.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154894386340870.1073743042.581200869&type=1&l=ab09cb0315

Ambush Magazine Reintroduction Launch Party

Last night, I attended the awesome Ambush Magazine Reintroduction Launch Party at GrandPre's and saw many of my longtime darling friends.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154897886600870.1073743043.581200869&type=1&l=c3b3e1c2b7

Before I share all the upcoming fun events, I want to express my deepest condolence to the family of Marsha Delain. Her husband of 43 years, Rip Naquin, publisher of the popular LGBTQ newspaper, Ambush, passed away just four months ago. They were icons of the French Quarter. Their contributions to the LGBTQ Community and the City of New Orleans are well recognized. Two of the sweetest people I have ever known. They are together now. May their souls RIP. Her funeral will be held this Saturday, Dec. 23 at 10 a.m. at St. Anna Episcopal Church on Esplanade Avenue. http://obits.nola.com/obituaries/nola/obituary.aspx?n=marsha-naquin-delain&pid=187563421&fhid=2616

Marsha Naquin-Delain's Obituary on The Times-Picayune obits.nola.com Read the Obituary and view the Guest Book, leave condolences or send flowers. | Marsha Naquin-Delain as he was known to his many friends in the New Orleans community, died at his residence on Thursday, December 14, 2017. Born Marion M. Greeson in Baton Rouge, LA on June 17,

Lafete News Link December 18, 2017

http://conta.cc/2CXiYQE

Love New Orleans & She'll Love You Back.

December 19-24
White Christmas

Irving Berlin's White Christmas

Dec 19–24, 2017

The classic holiday movie White Christmas comes to the stage at last!

December 20
Tran-Siberian Orchestra

December 21-31

NOLA Christmas Fest

 nolachristmasfest.com/

Welcome | NOLA ChristmasFest nolachristmasfest.com Christmas in New Orleans has always been a magical time. NOLA ChristmasFest, a dazzling, family-friendly seasonal event, offers another opportunity to get into the ...

December 22

I am looking forward to attending this always fun event.

DEC22

Going

Home for the Holidays

Fri 6:30 PM · House of Blues New Orleans · New Orleans

You like House of Blues New Orleans

Home for the Holidays - New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts (NOCCA)Benefit, Home for the Holidays is a night of spectacular art & music benefiting the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists, which honors the memory of NOCCA alumnus Daniel Price. In keeping with Daniel's twin passions of art and music, the Fund provides scholarships for outstanding visual arts & music students at NOCCA. Silver and Gold patrons will be treated to an intimate concert by the legendary Irma Thomas, with access to The Foundation Room & The Parish Room all night. The Parish will have an open bar and is a perfect place to store any artwork purchased at the silent auction featuring priceless art donated by Daniel Price Award Recipients.

Artists at this event include: 
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Irma Thomas, James Andrews, Stanton Moore, Eric Lindell, Ivan Neville, New Breed Brass Band, Sweet Crude, Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers, John Boutté, David Shaw, Jon Roniger.

December 22
The Nutcracker by New Orleans Ballet Theatre

December 22-23
The Nutcracker by Delta Festival Ballet

December 23
CBS Sports Classic

December 24 
Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons 
Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee

December 24

Christmas Eve

@Steamboat Natchez

It's a Christmas Eve Celebration on the Mississippi River aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ. The cruise will feature a delicious holiday dinner buffet and live Jazz music by the Steamboat Stompers Trio. More info 

December 26 
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

Wishing you a happy Christmas and prosperous New Year 2018 in many Languages 

I bet you did not know I spoke so many languages - Well I don't but the Internet does, so here is the way to wish you all a happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. https://www.omniglot.com/language/phrases/christmas.htm

New Orleans Tricentennial 

Twenty-eighteen (2018) will mark the beginning of the Crescent City’s 300th Tricentennial Anniversary and you are cordially invited! This epic milestone will honor more than just our rich history, diverse culture and resilient spirit. It will also celebrate the city’s many accomplishments and its plans for the promising future. Each event is as diverse as the fabric of this city! From the Historic New Orleans Collection’s opening of “New Orleans, The Founding Era” exhibit and Navy Week’s Tall Ships from Around the World to the King’s Day Celebration, Fireworks and KickOff to Tricentennial Mardi Gras and beyond, this is a celebration for everyone! Join us for the festivities! Learn more by visiting: http://2018nola.com/ or https://www.neworleans.com

A Toast to NO : Dec. 12-18 Hanukkah Celebration/ Round Table Luncheon/ Final Fiesta Navidena at Bergen-Casell/ Caroling in Jackson Square and more.....

A Toast to NO : Dec. 12-18 Hanukkah Celebration/ Round Table Luncheon/ Final Fiesta Navidena at Bergen-Casell/ Caroling in Jackson Square and more.....

For those  of you that are attending my Round Table Luncheon on Wed. December 13 at noon, please come early or take an Uber to avoid long line for the Valet parking.

Darlings,

I hope you’ve been enjoying this seasonal weather and the recent snow. I enjoyed the warmer weather and I am praying that the temperature will be warmer rather than cold. Fortunately, I have a lot of heavy clothes to keep me warm as I attended many fun cultural and social events. 

Please open the links so you can enjoy the photos. 

2017 Louisiana Women Leaders Conference

The 2017 Louisiana Women Leaders Conference took place on December 2 at the Marriott New Orleans at 9 a.m in conjunction with Louisiana Center for Women in Government and Business Hall of Fame event. Featured presenters included Elizabeth Smart and Mike Wagenheim. ,https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154867237025870.1073743026.581200869&type=1&l=e7e19bafee

2017 Luna Fete

Darlings, the rain did not dampen my spirit as well as my darling friend, Constance Adams and her darling daughter Chloe, visiting from Houston, TX. She wanted to experience an evening with me so we started it at the preview party sponsored by Pan American Life for the exquisite installation of The Art Council of Luna Fete. It was spectacular and magical. We were in awe and loved it. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154869050375870.1073743027.581200869&type=1&l=dadb3d5df5

Gamblers, Whiskey and Flying Horses with Dale DeGroff

My evening with Constance Adams and Chloe continued and this time we went to SoBou where my darling friend, James Beard Award-Winning Mixologist, author and “King of the Cocktail,” Dale DeGroff, was presenting a very interesting lecture: “Gamblers, Whiskey and Flying Horses,” He was joined by his talented wife and also an author, Jill DeGroff.

We joined Dale for a Runyonesque romp through the world of whiskey and thoroughbred racing. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154869085530870.1073743028.581200869&type=1&l=0afb2ae72d

Bubbles and Best of It!

Darlings, if there one thing I love besides Chiquita Bergen it’s drinking French Champagne and today, at the annual Republic Beverage Distributing Soiree at Calcacius, I had plenty of it. Titled “Bubbles and the Best of . . . “ it was indeed a tasting of exquisite sparkling and elite stills and I loved it. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154869873095870.1073743029.581200869&type=1&l=e846f7da0d

St. Charles Ave's 2017 Activists of the Year

Congratulations are in order to my darling friends talented artists Terrance and Stephanie Osborne, recipients of the St. Charles Avenue magazine's Activists of the Year 2017 awards along with Roland and Mary von Kurnatowski and Linda and Thomas Westfeldt. They were honored  at a lovely reception at Iberia Bank on St. Charles Ave.

BRAVO Holiday Social

The annual BRAVO Holiday Social at the Sandra and Joel Chaisson elegant ballroom was awesome . We discussed the upcoming Bravo Gala: “Une Affaire d'Avant Garde: En Blanc et Noir” at the Hyatt on Feb. 23 and the return of Les Ballet de Monte Carlo on February, 24 at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. I cannot wait! https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154873625780870.1073743031.581200869&type=1&l=add953ca76

4th Annual New Orleans Mission

The 4th Annual New Orleans Mission's "Changing the Face of Homelessness" Gala at the Hyatt Regency was awesome. The Gala featured Ron Hall, author of the New York Times bestseller novel, now Paramount Pictures movie, Same Kind of Different as Me and entertainment from nationally-acclaimed musician Jonny Diaz. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154875679685870.1073743032.581200869&type=1&l=cedb544fa1

31st Annual Art Against AIDS

Darlings, it is holiday party time and I love it. I just wish that these soirees were not at the same time and were in one location but I really try to stop at each one because I care about the causes and the people who organize them. I went briefly to the 31st Annual Art Against AIDS and it was lovely. The Gala helps support men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS in the New Orleans community. It honored my darling friend, etcher Phillip Sage at the Club XLIV at the Superdome and it featured American Idol finalist, David Hernandez. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154877941695870.1073743033.581200869&type=1&l=2b3a95581b

Krewe of Stars -Caroling on the Bayou

Last night, I had the opportunity to greet Santa on the historic Bayou St. John when I attended the Krewe of Stars Caroling on the Bayou at Marshall Manor on Bancroft Drive. It was so much fun and the evening was perfect for a festive soiree on the Bayou. Many thanks to our gracious host and talented entertainer, Marshall Harris. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154877969780870.1073743034.581200869&type=1&l=ff502fb566

· 

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Brass at Houmas House

 

Holiday Brass at Houmas House Plantation and Gardens by the Baton Rouge Symphony was spectacular. More than 600 festive guests enjoyed Associate Conductor, David Torns, and the BRSO Brass, Percussion and Harp as they performed all of our holiday favorites in the Burnside Restaurant. I was delighted to see that snow that was still around the gardens and the Plantation and how festive Houmas House Plantation and Gardens were decorated. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154879331020870.1073743035.581200869&type=1&l=bc9ac336c1

Here is a link to a video of the concert: https://www.facebook.com/houmashouseplantation/videos/10155925373227232/

My sincere prayers for former Louisiana Governor, Kathleen Blanco, our first and only female Governor who is battling melanoma of the liver.

Darlings, it is the Holiday Season and, as such, I have been invited to more parties than I could possibly attend but I know that the highlight of my week is going to be my annual Round Table Luncheon on Wednesday, December 13 at noon at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. (See calendar below.) 

Lafete News Link December 12, 2017

http://conta.cc/2BfVVCk

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

December 12

Hanukkah celebration will light up Riverwalk

An 11-foot menorah, the largest in Louisiana, will be lit next week, not only to commemorate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, but also to honor the memory of the man who helped start the local celebration in 1989 and, as back then, to combat hate: the late David Kaufmann.

Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, begins at sunset December 12 and concludes December 20. The oversized menorah was constructed by the late Isak Borenstein, a Polish Holocaust survivor who moved to New Orleans in 1951. It will be lit by Richard Cahn, president of Dixie Mills, as part of a celebration at The Riverwalk. The event, from 5-7 p.m. is sponsored by Chabad-Lubavich of Louisiana. It will take place on the terrace of The Riverwalk overlooking the Mississippi River, instead of the tradition staging area adjacent to Spanish Plaza.

Wednesday, December 13 

Round Table Luncheon saluting the Holidays and New Orleans Tricentennial 

Mark Romig, President and CEO of the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, will be the co-host, along with social columnist, Margarita Bergen. The Cultural and Historical Co-chairs of the New Orleans Tricentennial, Priscilla Lawrence and Sybil Morial, have been invited, as well as the new Mayor-elect of New Orleans, Latoya Cantrell; the Consul of Mexico,Carlos Ponce; the Consul General of France, Vincent Sciama; Romi Gonzalez; Jenny Hamilton, Executive Director of New Orleans Ballet; and Patti Lock, Director of Special Projects for Tall Ships of America.

As in the past, the Luncheon will feature a tasting of red wine by winemaker, Dr. James Moises, and a tasting of Champagne and sparkling wines by Lisa Tull of  Republic National Distributing Company.

The live entertainment will provided by a myriad of entertainers that will include Becky Allen, Carl Mack, Marshall Harris, pianist Jim Walpole, Suzaune Yee McKamey, Conductor Paul Mauffray , burlesque dancer Trixie Minx and vocalist Anais St. John.

And here are some more holiday events . . . \

DECEMBER 13, 201 

“A Not So Silent Night” Holiday Concert with Bon Operatit!

Presented By: Bon Operatit!

Location: Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter

Address: 541 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70130

Times: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Admission: Free!

Email: celebrate@bonoperatit.com

View Website | P: (504) 232-1046

December 13
Pelicans vs. Milwaukee Bucks
A Drag Queen Christmas
Paradigm Gardens Pizza and Pies

December 15
Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie's Doorway to Magic
The Legend of Zelda – Symphony of the Goddesses
Sonny Landreth

December 16
R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
The Nutcracker by New Orleans Ballet Theatre
Arts Market New Orleans

December 17
Saints vs. New York Jets 
The Nutcracker by New Orleans Ballet Theatre
Holiday Home Tours
Caroling in Jackson Square
Arts Market New Orleans

The Patio Planters of the Vieux Carré 

hosting home tours of select French Quarter homes

Sunday,  December 17, 1-4 p.m.  $20  

Details: http://patioplanters.net/events/

December 17

Casell Bergen Gallery Annual Fiesta Navideña (Closing Party)

Sunday, 4 PM · Casell Bergen Gallery · New Orleans

Dec17

Casell Bergen Gallery Annual Fiesta Navideña (Closing Party)

Sun 4 PM · Casell Bergen Gallery · New Orleans

December 17

Caroling in Jackson Square 

Sunday, December 17, 7 pm. Gates open 6:30 p.m. 

Jackson Square, French Quarter, New Orleans

Jackson Square is illuminated by hundreds of candles held by singers, both amateur and professional, crooning Christmas favorites that everyone is familiar with. The event is free to 

all who wish to participate, regardless of religious affiliation. Candles and song sheets are provided. https://followyourjoy.com/2014/11/24/caroling-in-jackson-square/

 

A Toast to NO : Dec. 12-18 Hanukkah Celebration/ Round Table Luncheon/ Final Fiesta Navidena at Bergen-Casell/ Caroling in Jackson Square and more.....

A Toast to NO : Dec. 12-18 Hanukkah Celebration/ Round Table Luncheon/ Final Fiesta Navidena at Bergen-Casell/ Caroling in Jackson Square and more.....

A Toast to NO : Dec. 12-18 Hanukkah Celebration/ Round Table Luncheon/ Final Fiesta Navidena at Bergen-Casell/ Caroling in Jackson Square and more.....