Another exciting week that started at a tasting of Absinthe at the Southern Food and BeverageMuseum and delicious hors d'oeuvres. On Wednesday, I hosted my popular monthly Round Table Luncheon at Begue's of the Royal Sonesta. We were greeted with a glass of champagne and this year's official cocktail of Tales of the Cocktail. Ann Rogers Tuennerman provided a very informative talk about what to expect at this year Tales of the Cocktail and showed a very entertaining film produced by her husband Paul “Mr. Cocktail” Tuennerman. My next guest was Ivonne Ortiz of Aero Mexico who spoke about the exciting direct, economical flights from here to Mexico and on to Central America. Olga Aguilar spoke about the importance of registering for the 2010 Census.
As you probably know I attend a lot of social soirees during the course of the week and they included Summer Rum at CityPark that I attended dressed as Wench "Caribbean Darling." On Saturday I hosted a great party, Bon Appetit, that benefitted Project Lazarus. It was co-hosted by Bacardi Rum and we learned how to make mojitos. It was a hoot and raised money for a great cause.
On Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending, the most spectacular fundraiser for Chef Matt Murphy and his family. Amazing is the word to describe how the restaurant community and the public of New Orleans united for the Murphy Family Fundraiser at the Ritz Carlton Hotel.
Chef Murphyhas been hospitalized at OchsnerMedicalCenter and is battling an invasive group A streptococcus infection. This has led to toxic shock syndrome and DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation), a rare, life-threatening condition that prevents blood from clotting normally. Regular updates are posted by the family on www.murphyquads.com . He and his wife, Alicia, are the parents of eighteen month-old quadruplets and have a fifth child on the way.
The minute that you stepped out of your car, you were greeted by Irish music delightfully played by two bagpipe players. The entire second floor was needed to accommodate the 1,600 registered guests at elegantly decorated tables offering the legendary dishes of New Orleans Cuisine. Theevent included generous tastings from thecity's premier chefs including Chefs Andrea Appuzo, John Besh, Andrea, Drew Scott Boswell, Justin Devillier, Tenney Flynn, Donald Link, John Folse, Bob Iacovone, Brian Landry, Duke LoCicero, Jean Luc, Gus Martin, Mark Quitney, Greg Reggio, Jacques Saleun, Susan Spicer, Chuck Subra, Drew Dzejakand Kevin Vizard to name a few.
When it came to libations, I was in heaven since one of my favorite champagnes, Taittinger, generously donated the bubbly for the night. Many other beverage companies donated wine, beers and libation to keep the open bar going. A silent auction featured everything from multiple night stays at exclusive hotels and resorts around the world, autographed copies of the participating chefs’ cookbooks, celebrity memorabilia, artwork, wine, gift certificates and jewelry. Eric Paulsen of WWL-TV headed the lively auction. The entertaintment featured Kermit Ruffins, Jeremy Davenport, Zaza Marjanishvilli and Walter "Wolfman" Washington among others.
Some of the highlights of the fabulous evening included the presentation to Chef Matt's wife, Alicia, who is expecting their fifth child and a $5,000 check presented by the restaurant and hotel association s. The funds will go toward the chef's hospital care and childcare. This fundraiser will go down my memory lane as one best that I have ever attended and for a great cause
This week is going to be very exciting as well and on Saturday, June 20, there are three great events that I do not want to miss.
Tuesday, June 16
A TASTING OF ROSE WINE AT Alliance Française de la Nouvelle-Orléans
Is the weather too hot for you? Come relax around a glass of rosé at the Alliance Francaise's next Wine Workshop with Philippe, the wine specialist. June 16, 6:30-8.30 p.m. at their location: 1519 Jackson Avenue. Members $30, non-members $35. RSVP at 568-0770 or afno@af-neworleans.org .
Tuesday, June 16
“BUILDING COMMON GROUND”
Oxfam America and Xavier University of Louisiana present “Building Common Ground:
A panel on African-American and Latino relations in Post Katrina New Orleans.”
6 p.m. XavierUniversity, the UniversityCenter, 4980 Dixon St., 3rd floor Ballroom A.
Wednesday, June 17
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS AT THE JW MARRIOTT
Experience an evening of cultural indulgences from 5:30-8 p.m. at the JW Marriott Lobby Lounge featuring works by local artistTheresa Herrera and live entertainment by Tony Seville-multi-intrumentalist. Spirit Tasting and complimentary hors d’oeuvres..
Wednesday, June 17
CRIME PREVENTION SUMMIT
The Family Center of Hope and Watson Memorial Teaching Ministries will hold a crime prevention summit on at 7 p.m., at 4422 St. Charles Avenue to introduce its most recent initiative Project Restore. Participating in the summit will be New Orleans City Council members Arnie Fielkow and James Carter, District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro, Criminal Sheriff Marlin Gusman. Mayor C. Ray Nagin and Police Chief Warren Riley have also been invited. The crime prevention summit will focus on “Taking Responsibility for a Safer Community: Solutions to Crime.” The summit will feature Rev. Khalil Osiris, a nationally recognized re-entry and restorative justice expert. Having spent 20 years of his life in prison, Osiris' work focuses on helping people overcome what he calls the incarceration of "self imposed limitations."
Here's a Little Bit More of What's Up around the City This Week...
Wednesday, June 17
WEDNESDAY AT THE SQUARE
Presented by the New Orleans Saints, this is the last week of the popular spring concert series, Wednesday at the Square. GALACTIC and the Hot 8 Brass Band will both perform in Lafayette Square Park between St. Charles Avenue and Camp Street. This week is sure to draw one of the largest crowds of the year, so get there early!
Thursday, June 18
Ogden After Hours
Every Thursday evening, experience one of Downtown's most fabulous museums while enjoying live entertainment and a cold cocktail. On June 18, Ogden After Hours presents jazz/funk artist Brian Seeger from 6-8 p.m. Seeger was recently dubbed "one of New Orleans' best jazz guitarists" by The Gambit.
Thursday, June 18
THURSDAYS AT TWILIGHT Philip Melancon’sNew Orleans Entertainment is performing at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters, New OrleansBotanical Garden, CityPark. Gates open at 5 p.m. and music begins at 6:00. $6 admission.
Thursday, June 18
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
The Swizzle Stick Bar, 300 Poydras Street at the Loews Hotel, is presenting a happy hour fundraising from 5-7 p.m. featuring the debut of "La Verne's Suitini" with a portion going of the proceeds benefiting “Dress for Success.” The fundraiser features entertainment by Charmaine Neville and special guest appearance by award-winning actor Wendell Pierce. It will be an evening of music, hors d'oeuvres and fun with complementary valet parking.
June 18
Celebrity Bartender Bash at La Thai Uptown!
Local celebrities from artists to musicians will trade their day jobs for bartending duties as La Thai Uptown hosts a once-a-month Celebrity Bartender Bash. Guest bartenders will create a signature cocktail for guests to sample at no charge. In addition, complimentary hors d’ouevres will be offered and special drink prices. On Wednesday June 24 from 5-7 p.m., La Thai welcomes The Tales of the Cocktails Angels (Michelle Dunnick, Christina Gaspari and Melissa Young) with special guest Tony Leggio, the Tales of the Cocktail Devil, who will be serving up creative signature specialties.
The Tales of the Cocktail Angels are the women behind the first woman of cocktails. Just as Charlie’s Angles completed seemingly impossible tasks on a daily basis, Ann Tuennerman’s heavenly event coordinators work miracles in bringing Tales of the Cocktail to life. In addition, owner Diana Chauvin invites guests to throw on a sarong or brightly colored Hawaiian shirt, grab a lei and head to La Thai Uptown for Tiki Thursdays from 5-7pm every Thursday. Located at 4938 Prytania Street, the Uptown restaurant and bar from the owners of Bangkok Cuisine, will be serving up 2 for 1 classic Tiki-style cocktails and complimentary Tiki-inspired hors d’oeuvres every Thursday evening. End your week on a high note with La Thai’s “Happy Ending Fridays” every Friday from 5-9 p.m. Enjoy $3 call drinks and $2 Abita beer as you listen to the cool sounds of Greg Bosse on guitar.
MUSIC OFFERING AT DOS JEFES UPTOWN CIGAR BAR- NO COVER CHARGE
Dosjefescigarbar.com
DOS JEFES UPTOWN CIGAR BAR
5535 TCHOUPITOULAS ST.
N.O.,L.A. (504) 891 - 8500
dosjefescigarbar.com
TUE., 6/16 - JOE KROWN @ 9 30
WED., 6/17 - BOB ANDREWS @ 9 30
THUR., 6/18 - RICK TROLSEN & THE N.O. PO'BOYS @ 9 30
FRI., 6/19 - THE GEORGE FRENCH BAND @ 10
SAT., 6/20 - ACOUSTIC SWIFTNESS @ 10
MON., 6/22 - JOHN FOHL @ 9 30
***HAPPY HOUR*** HAS EXPANDED TO 7 DAYS
$2.50 HEINER BRAU PINTS;$3 HI-BALLS;$4 MARTINIS, MARGARITAS...
MUSIC OFFERINGS AT IRVIN MAYFIELD'S PLAYHOUSE
One of the best jazz clubs in the Big Easy, Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon Street, has quickly become the hottest place in town to enjoy authentic New Orleans jazz music.
All performances begin at 8 pm, and there is no cover.
June Performance Schedule:
Tuesday, June 17 Jason Marsalis
Wednesday, June 18 Irvin Mayfield’s NOJO Jam Session
Thursday, June 19 Johnaye Kendrick
Friday, June 20 Leon “Kid Chocolate” Brown
Saturday, June 21 Shannon Powell Quartet
Monday, June 22 Bob French and the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band
MUSIC OFFERING AT The Polo Club Lounge at Windsor Court - - No cover Charge
Live Music 7 Nights a Week!
The Leah Chase Trio-Friday 9 PM - Midnight
Saturdays-Anais St. John With The Harry Mayronne Trio- 9 PM – Midnight
Friday June 12 , Judy Spellman Trio Jazz & R&B 9:30pm-12:a.m.
Saturday Ray June 20th Solis & Magic Jazz & R&B 9:30pm-12:30 a.m.
MUSIC LISTINGS AT THE RITZ CARLTON
on TROIS : JEREMY DAVENPORT- at 9 p.m. Friday - Saturday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Catherine Anderson - Sat and Sun at 1 p.m.
Armand St. Martin -10 a.m. Sunday
Thursday from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Jeremy Davenport at the Davenport Lounge
Friday,June 19
VINO IN THE BAYOU
Vino On The Bayou with Tarik Hassan Trio featuring Marcio Perriera At the
Pitot House Museum,1440 Moss Street next to CabriniHigh School from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Begin your weekend with neighbors and friends, sipping into sunset on beautiful historic Bayou St. John. $10 per person, $5 for Landmarks members. All proceeds donated to Louisiana Landmarks Society.
OBITUARY COCKTAIL
Obers will gather as usual from 6 to 7 p.m. at Deannie's, 841 Iberville Street, corner of Dauphine. Phone 581-1316 Website: www.deanies.com
Friday, June 19 – Sunday, June 21
INTERNATIONAL BONSAI CONGRESS AT CITYPARK
Sub titled "Survivors of the Storm," the Exhibition of Bonsai features Bonsai from Gulf Coast collections, demonstrations and workshops from international bonsai artists from Indonesia, England, Venezuela and Australia. Japanese flower arranging workshops, Japanese Garden YLC.New OrleansBotanical Gardens, 1 Palm Drive, CityPark. (504) 483-9386.
Saturday, June 20
BOURBON & BURLESQUE
The third annual Bourbon & Burlesque "swinging soiree" is being staged at the ContemporaryArtsCenter. Enjoy complimentary specialty cocktails, a special aerial striptease performance by world-renowned burlesque artist Angela Eve as well as several local troupes, a cigar parlor, and a premium raffle.
Saturday, June 20
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala
This year’s theme is “Under the Mayan Moonlight” at the J.W. Marriott Hotel. Honorees this year are José S. Suquet, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of Pan-American Life Insurance Group, and G. Frank Purvis, Jr., the retired Chairman of the Board of Pan-American Life Insurance Group. Mr. Suquet will be presented the Excelencia Award as Business Leader of the Year, and Mr. Purvis will receive the Excelencia Award for Lifetime Achievement in Business. Chef Carlos Lainez has prepared an extraordinary four-course menu. As entertainment there will be a six-man band called Latin Four who play both Latin and American music. There will also be exciting items in the silent auction. For reservation call Darlene Kattan at 504-885-4262 or dkattan@hccl..biz
Saturday, June 20
FRENCH AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, LOUISIANA CHAPTER SUMMER FESTIVAL 2009
This summer’s FACC event is going to be a big hit! Come enjoy the summer night, being serenaded by the Gypsy Swing band, munching on some delicious New Orleans Cuisine and drinking fabulous French wines! It is an event not to be missed! Come out and support the FACC, your favorite nonprofit organization. 7:30-10:30 p.m. The Degas House, 2306 Esplanade Avenue. Free parking available at the Musicians Union at the corner of Rocheblave and the 2401 block of Esplanade (a block from the Degas House). $40 members, $50 non members. Participating restaurants include The Kupcake Factory, Flaming Torch, Café Degas, La Cote Brasserie, JW Marriott, Palate New Orleans, Maximos, Eleven 79, Chateau du Lac, Maurice French Pastry, La Louisiane Bakery, and Whole Foods.. RSVP: Jennifer Weinhart by June 18. Spaces are filling up fast. 504-561-0070 or log on to info@facc-la.com
Sunday, June 21 SUMMER CINEMA PRESENTED BY W FRENCH QUARTER AND NEW ORLEANS FILM SOCIETY W French Quarter, New Orleans Film Society and Paramount Pictures invite you back to the W French Quarter courtyard for another season of “Summer Cinema.. Sip $5 X-Rated Cocktails – proceeds benefiting New Orleans Film Society.. Space is limited, so please arrive early. The free show start at 8 p.m. W New Orleans - French Quarter, 316 Chartres Street. 504-552-4069.
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Tuesday, June 23
French Quarter Business Women's Network Meeting
Come hear District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro speak at the FQBWN from 11:30 a.m.– 1:00 p.m. at Carmelo’s Restaurant, 541 Decatur Street. Cost $35.00/person for 3-course lunch. For reservations call Christine Sory at 648
June 23 The Canada - U.S. Economic Partnership and Its Impact on Louisianamic Partnership
and Its Impact on Louisiana"
A Luncheon Program Featuring Hon. Norris Pettis,Consul General of Canada, at Plimsoll Club, Dallas, Texas. 11:30 a.m. networking reception.12:00 presentation and Q & A.The Plimsoll Club, 30th Floor,World Trade Center.(Free validated parking in the WTC Garage) For registration: rwilbanks@wtcno.ccsend.com) Registration is required by June 19, 4:00 p.m.
June 23
GET CONNECTED
Maria Muro, Publisher, cordially invites you to Get Connected, a networking & social for professionals -Tuesday, June 23 • 5:30-7:30 p.m. Zoe at W New Orleans,333 Poydras Street, 2nd floor.Enjoy a complimentary tasting of wines, courtesy of Palm Bay Imports, hors d’oeuvres
and informal modeling by The Red Carpet,RSVP to cheryl@livingneworleans.com
Please include name, title, business and email address
Talking about Latinos, Zumba, a Latin-based fitness program, is offering free exercise classes every Friday at 5 p.m. at St. Roch Community Church, 1738 St. Roch Avenue.
And finally . . . I want to wish all the fathers out there a very happy Father’s Day on Sunday, June 21. I hope you enjoy your special day with your family and other loved ones, especially those of you who have been blessed with grandchildren!
