Bayoubuzz

Written by {ga=staffwriters} Tuesday, 07 September 2010 09:11

 

Darling friends,

Another fabulous week has gone by in the beautiful City of New Orleans. Balmy, steamy weather greeted us as I went around attending all the fun events that included my Happy Hours - Toasting with Margarita with New Orleans Saints defensive back Mike McKenzie at Le Booze, and the well-attended 2nd Annual Cultural Collision, the unique event that brings together New Orleans' cultural organizations for a one of a kind happy hour designed to encourage participation and involvement in the New Orleans arts scene. I also served as one of the emcees for Carolina Gallop's annual fashion Show at the Blue Nile.
Read More But as I mentioned last week, the highlight of my week was the Canine Wedding of Duchess Chiquita Linda Bergen and Cosmo Simon Lemoine at Twist. It was beautiful and I was very proud of my beloved Chiquita. The union was officiated by ordained minister Ms. Bonnie Broel who, in addition, designed the elegant bridal gown and veil, while the groom sported a traditional black and white tuxedo. The bridal party included a flower girl, three bridesmaids and three groomsmen, all canine companions of the happy couple.

Mike’s on the Avenue provided the wedding cake to accompany a Champagne toast (sparkling water for all four-legged guests.) Frank Stansbury photographed the event, with videography provided by Cheryl Welliver of Welliver Productions.  In lieu of gifts, the couple requested that donations be made to Southern Animal Foundation. The nuptial march was performed by pianist Jim Walpole and they were serenaded by talented chanteuse Suzaune Yee McKamey.  The event benefited the Southern Animal Foundation which also that night crowned Curt Sprang of ABC 26 TV and Lorin Gaudin, “The Food Goddess as the winner of the Top Dog contest for raising the most money.

On Friday, I attended the hilarious “Ain't it Super,” a  play about Saints fan reminiscing about the team's 44-year journey to Super Bowl. Written by Stephen Scalffidi. Produced by Sal Gambino. Directed by Perry Martin. Starring Randy Cheramie, John "Spud" McConnell, Becky Allen, Dane Rhodes, Mary Lee Gibbons, Travis Resor and Casey McMurry , with voiceover by WWL-TV’s Jim Henderson. On Sunday, I enjoyed the annual Southern Decadence Parade through the Vieux Carre.

I want to remind everyone that this Sunday is the  Final day to view “Katrina + 5: Documenting Disaster” at the Royal Street complex of the Historic New Orleans Collection, and “Women Artists in Louisiana, 1965–2010” at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Katrina + 5 explores the history made in New Orleans since August 29, 2005. The exhibition presents selections from The Collection's extensive oral history program focused on the experiences of first responders and a photography project intended to document the scale of the chaos throughout the city.

This week I am looking forward to attending the Art Showcase at the Windsor Court,  WTC's 2010 Bertel Award Luncheon  at the Plimsoll Club, the New Orleans Seafood festival and most important to me, the annual elegant black-tie Azucar Ball at the Intercontinental Hotel. The fundraiser benefits the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. The recipients of this year's Galves Cup will be Ileana and Jose Suquet of Pan American Insurance. I understand that there are six fundraisers that evening  including the Overture to the Cultural Season Ball, Encore for Le Petit Theatre and, unfortunately, I can only attend one.

I just was informed that First Lady Michelle Obama will be on town on Wednesday to promote to promote her initiative to combat childhood obesity. I will try to go and  I am sure everyone is looking forward to the Saints parade and the game on Thursday. I will try to catch it by Decatur street. I am also  looking forward to participating on Sunday with Chiquita at the annual NO AIDS WALK.

Here is how this week shapes up:

Tuesday, September 7
Art Showcase at Windsor Court
The Windsor Court will launch its Art Showcase Series from 6–8 p.m., featuring paintings by renowned New Orleans artist Martin Welch, the showcase will include a reception with the artist with complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The Windsor Court will highlight a local artist monthly with support from the Arts Council of New Orleans. RSVP is requested and can be made by calling 504-522-1994.

Tuesday, September 7
Who Dat Coronation II – Black and Gold Costume Contest
In celebration of our Super Bowl Champions, as well as the color, character and revelry that epitomize the New Orleans spirit, Fox-8, Café Adelaide & The Swizzle Stick Bar and the Loews New Orleans Hotel are throwing the Who Dat Coronation II – Black and Gold Costume Contest. In preparation for the much anticipated season opener on September 9, Café Adelaide & The Swizzle Stick Bar will be converted into a black and gold celebration that will bring all the Saints’ fans marchin’ in. Event highlights and visuals include the new “Finish Strong” cocktail, by Bar Chef Lu Brow, and WHO DAT Punch specials. Executive Chef Chris Lusk will serve a selection of “Breeze bites” – his version of dressed up tailgate classics. The top five costume finalists will be called to the fabulous Swizzle Stick Bar.  The winner – to be selected by guest judges – will receive fabulous prizes. 5:30–7 p.m., Loews New Orleans Hotel, Cafe Adelaide 300 Poydras St., 504-595-3305.


Wednesday, September 8
FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA LAUNCHES LET’S MOVE! PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NFL


The First Lady will be in New Orleans to promote her initiative to combat childhood obesity Let’s Move! along with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and former NFL coach Tony Dungy.  The NFL has committed to support Mrs. Obama’s efforts by highlighting its own Play 60 campaign, which encourages children to be active for an hour a day.  12:45 p.m. at  Woldenberg Park



September 8

Get In The kNOwLA


Experience an evening of cultural indulgences at the JW Marriott Lobby Lounge. from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.This week local artist is
CB "Bruce" Hume.Award winning Louisiana Landscape and Still Life Artist, also known as the "Louisiana Coffee Painter." Live Entertainment by:
Javier Gutierrez.(guitarist) Complimen tary wine or spirit tastings and hors d' oeuvres. Lobby Bar,JW Marriott New Orleans, 614 Canal Street,

September 8-12
Southern Rep Presents – “IN THE NEXT ROOM “(or the vibrator play)
New Orleans Southern Reps 24th Season begins with a Regional Premiere of Sarah Ruhls Pulitzer Prize finalist and Tony Award Nominated play In The Next Room (or the vibrator play), directed by Southern Rep Artistic Director Aimee Hayes. Wednesday- Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m. http://www.southernrep.com . Southern Rep is located on the 3rd Floor of The Shops at Canal Place. Price range $29.00 - $85.00. Call 504-522-6545 for tickets.

Thursday, September 9
Krewe of NFL Kickoff Parade
For the first time in NFL Kickoff history and in the spirit of New Orleans, the NFL will host a parade to ring in its 91st season and celebrate the New Orleans Saints Super Bowl XLIV championship. THE KREWE OF NFL KICKOFF PARADE travels through the heart of the French Quarter, Esplanade Ave, North Peters, heading downtown on Decatur and North Peters, crossing Canal St to Tchoupitoulas and ending at Julia Street. Fans may line up along the parade route to be a part of the celebration. There will be specialty NFL floats and throws (beads) in the parade.  The parade will feature Blaine Kern Studios signature floats, the area’s finest marching bands, local residents, local chefs and former NFL greats from around the league. Parade floats include: Rex Streetcar Float, a New Orleans-themed float celebrating that night’s match-up between the Saints and the Minnesota Vikings, the Lombardi Riverboat Float commemorating the Saints Super Bowl XLIV championship, and the Smokey Mary Train from the Orpheus Parade, featuring local kids who are part of the NFL’s PLAY 60 campaign, committed to making the next generation of youth the most active and healthy. NFL sponsors EA SPORTS, VISA, Snickers and Pepsi also will have floats celebrating Kickoff.

Thursday, September 9
New Orleans Saints vs. Minnesota Vikings
The 2009 Super Bowl Champions New Orleans Saints kick off their first home game againt the Minnesota Vikings. GO SAINTS! 7:30 p.m. Louisiana Superdome. Phone  504-587-3663 for tickets and information.

September 9

TAILGATE PARTY WITH A PURPOSE

Mike McKenzie’s 34 Ways Foundation presents “Tailgate Party with a Purpose” from 3 p.m.-3 a.m. at Ernst Café, 600 South Peters Street, one block from Harrah’s Casino. The benefit event will feature “World of Wheels’ 34 Hot Rides,” a deejay and live entertainment and exclusive player autographing sessions with Saints defensive back Mike McKenzie and former Saints great and NFL Hall of Famer Rickey Jackson. Ticket sales benefit the foundation which offers holiday bike and food giveaways, back to school supplies, renovation of the Kingsley House Community Pool and the Haiti “Skills to Rebuild” Project. Tickets are available at www.34waysfoundation.org. General admission is $25 and VIP is $75.

September 9

Thursdays at Twilight Garden Concerts Present The Balsa Wood Flyers
The Balsa Wood Flyers have been a fixture of the New Orleans Americana/Folk music scene for the past ten years. They incorporate traditional string band instrumentation with stellar harmony vocals to bring to life their own musical creations as well as country, folk, gospel and blues standards. Stroll through the New Orleans Botanical Garden at twilight, settle in with a mint julep and enjoy the finest musicians New Orleans has to offer. This popular music series, offers jazz, classical, and Latin American music. Mint juleps, wine, beer, soft drinks, water, and food available for purchase, no outside food and drink or pets allowed. Admission is not included in Friends of City Park membership. 5-8 p.m., Pavilion of the Two Sisters, City Park Botanical Garden. 504-483-9386.


Friday, September 10
2010 Bertel Award Luncheon
The World Trade Center will present the 2010 Recipient of the Alvin C. Bertel Award to Eugene J. Schreiber, former managing director of the WTC of New Orleans at a luncheon at 12 noon (cash bar at 11:30 a.m.) 12th Floor, Westin Canal Place Hotel, (discounted validated parking in the Canal Place garage). Need to reserve by September 8 at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Friday, September 10
30TH ANNIVERSARY GALA OF BOYS HOPE GIRLS HOPE
City Park's Pavilion of the Two Sisters will the lovely setting for the fundraiser gala that will include starting at 7:30 p.m., silent auction, dancing  and a dinner provided by some of New Orleans legendary restaurants. Entertainment by Sha'on and the Girls.
For more information, please contact 30th Anniversary Gala Chair Julie Calhoun at 504-957-3134, or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

September 10-12
NEW ORLEANS SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
The free three-day festival of food, music and fun will take place in Lafayette Square across from historic Gallier Hall on St. Charles Avenue starting at 4 p.m. on Friday. Festival-goers can enjoy New Orleans cuisine from favorite local restaurants. All proceeds from the festival will benefit the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation (LHF). For more information visit the website www.neworleansseafoodfestival.com.

Friday, September 10

OBITUARY COCKTAIL

Obers will gather as always from 6-7 p.m. at this great New Orleans saloon. Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal Street. Phone: 412-8965.

That night will be the Unveiling of the Obit painting. After more than one year working on the painting, the renowned French Quarter Artist Fredrick Guess has completed an oil painting of Obers at Obituary Cocktail gatherings. This is the most comprehensive painting of French Quarter friends and neighbors ever produced by an artist.  It represents, for the first time in history, a view of who lives, loves and cares for the French Quarter. The diversity of individuals in the French Quarter is truly represented in this master work of art on canvas. More than 155 individual portraits of Obers are in the picture. prints will be for sale that evening!

September 10-12
New Orleans Arena Presents - Curious George
Come to the new musical starring Curious George! Starring in his own original live musical stage production and - for the first time - touring arena and theater stages throughout the country, Curious George is on a mission to help Chef Pisghetti win a world-famous meatball competition. This adventure takes him to Rome and The Golden Meatball Contest. With every swing and flip, George takes the audience through a fun-filled, entertaining story with lots of music and dance that the whole family will enjoy. http://www.ticketmaster.com; New Orleans Arena. (800) 745-3000. Opening Night: All seats $12! (excluding Gold Circle & Monkey Seats);Other Performances: $13, $18, $21, $26 (Gold Circle), & $55 (Monkey Seats)

Friday, September 10
Swimming Upstream
To commemorate the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, V-Day and the Ashé Cultural Arts Center and the Women Donors Network will once again present Swimming Upstream. To document those incidents, for a year and a half following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, 16 women from New Orleans— including a gospel singer, a teenage filmmaker, a former Vegas showgirl, and a Mardi Gras Indian matriarch—met monthly to share stories and develop original writings about their experiences before, during, and after the storms.8:00 pm
http://www.ashecac.org . Mahalia Jackson Theatre, (504) 569-9070, $25.00 - $50.00

Friday, September 10

ROY AYERS’ 70th BIRTHDAY CONCERT AT HARRAH’S

The great jazz vibraphonist/vocalist Roy Ayers celebrates his 70th birthday with a concert in the Harrah’s Casino Theater. With about 55 albums to his credit since 1963, Ayers is among the best-known, most loved and respected jazz/R&B artists on the scene today – and possibly the best living vibes player. Known as the Godfather of Neo-soul, Ayers continues to bridge the gap between generations of music lovers. Showtime: 8 p.m. Ticket Prices: $35 general admission; $45 King’s Row.

Saturday, September 11
Two Booksignings  at Garden District Book Shop
Elise Martinez and Colette Stelly discuss and sign their book  : Henriette Delille:    Rebellious Saint  from  11:30-1 p.m. and then Katheryn Krotzer Laborde discusses and signs her book  "Do Not Open The Discarded Refrigerators of Post-Katrina New Orleans"  from 1-3 p.m. at   Garden District Book Shop, 504-895-2266   2727 Prytania St
September 11

NEW ORLEANS CON SABOR: ISLENOS

The Southern Food & Beverage Museum  presents the Islenos, who are descendents from the Cnary Island who migrated to Louisiana during the 18th century, demostrating aa rice pudding recipe. Free with museum admission. 2 to 4 p.m. Riverwalk Marketplace, 569-0405
September 11
Harrah's New Orleans Presents - Jodi Borrello and Friends
This show features New Orleans' native comedian and regular with The Improv at Harrah's Las Vegas, Jodi Borrello; Musical director/arranger for Dr. John and critically acclaimed musician, Charlie Miller; New Orleans own Big Easy Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Becky Allen; 30 year veteran actor/comedian/entertainer, Kenny Bob Davis; and New Orleans' up and coming comedian, Rhonda Bordelon. 8 p.m. Harrah's Theatre, (800) 745-3000. $25.00

Saturday, September 11
Azucar Ball
The New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation will host its 20th annual  black-tie fundraiser with the theme "Carnival de las Americas"  at the InterContinental  New Orleans  Hotel from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. The fiesta will feature non-stop music by Julio and Cesar and Rumba Buena as well as fabulous food from legendary restaurants and a silent auction. The recipients of this year's Galves Cup will be Ileana and Jose Suquet of Pan American Insurance.  Tickets are $125 and $175 for the Patron and ball and Junior Ball tickets for 25 years and under $75. For reservation call Rosa Rodriguez at 504-523-2600.

Saturday, September 11

ROCKIN' WITH THE NOLA STARS

Grace House is hosting its fundraiser at Generation Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Drive from 6 to 10 p.m. Celebrities including Nell Nolan, Chef Duke Cicero Lo Cicero will compete for best costume, best rapport with dance partner, most creative dance, best overall routine and who raises the most money. Tickets are $30 and $50 VIP. Music by Johnny J and the Hitmen. Visit www.gracehouseneworleans.org



Saturday, September 11

CELEBRATION DES ARTS

Overture to the Cultural Season and  the College of Music and Fine Arts Loyola University New Orleans present 2010 Gala to open the cultural season at the Hilton Riverside Hotel from 7 to 11 p.m.  The fundraiser will have a gala dinner and a silent auction and entertaiment by Phillip Melancon and the Thank You Boys and performances by student and faculty of Loyola's College of Music and Arts. Tickets $175 Patron party and gala or $125 for Gala.



September 11

ENCORE at Le PETIT THEATER

The Glitz and Glamour of Hollywood is coming  to the fundraising gala for Le Petite Theatre du Vieux Carre and guests are invited to come in costume and walk down the red carpet  along with Bryan Batt, Patricia Clarkson and other stars. Patrons will be attending an exclusive soiree at Muriel's Jackson Square Restaurant from 6 to 7:30 and second- line to the Theatre for the Gala. For information call 522-9958

September 11-12
Fleur de Tease Burlesque Revue Presents "The Wizard of Oz"
Fleur de Tease will be following the brick path down in the French Quarter to One Eyed Jacks for their 2010-2011 Season Opener as they present “The Wizard of Oz.” Follow Dorothy on this uniquely New Orleans themed adventure as she meets a comical Scarecrow searching for her brain, a jaw-dropping strip-teasing lion, flying aerial monkeys, along with a mean wicked witch that wants Dorothy to take off more than just her ruby slippers. Only the great Oz -AKA MC Chris Lane can help her find her way back to NOLA again. With help from Glenda the good witch and some magical inspiration from New Orleans’ own Magic Mike, Dorothy realizes that there’s no other place with go cups, no last calls, and below sea level perfect enough to call home. Fleur de Tease is New Orleans’ premiere troupe of true professional burlesque dancers. The group features Founder & Artistic Director Trixie Minx, Madame Mystere, Lily Summers, Natasha Fiore’, Bella Blue, and Roxie le Rouge. This comical cast is always creating new and original routines. No two shows are ever alike, and with Fleur de Tease performing two live shows once a month at One Eyed Jacks, be prepared to expect the unexpected at every performance. 8 and 10 p.m., One Eyed Jacks, 615 Toulouse Street, 504-553-2331

Sunday, September 12
2010 NO/AIDS WALK
Thousands will gather in Audubon Park to walk to help those affected by HIV and Aids. Registration begins at 8 a..m. and the WALK begins at 10 a.m. For more info visit www.noaidswalk.com

Sunday, September 12
A Who's Who in "I Do" Bridal Show
This will be a star studded event you won't want to miss! Randy Fenoli from TLC's "Say Yes to the Dress" will be on hand to let you know about all the latest in fashion trends. Lizzie Post will be signing copies of her new book Guide to Great Get Togethers. Experience one-of-a-kind demonstrations from cake diva Sylvia Weinstock and local Chef Tom Wolfe. Also... 150 of the areas top wedding experts, amazing door prizes, hair and makeup demonstration, cake and floral displays, tastings with New Orleans best chefs, and gift bags for everyone! All proceeds with benefit the "Gulf Restoration Network". 2-5 pm - Convention Center, 504.525.2743 (bride)

Every Sunday
MARYFLYNN'S "PROHIBITION”
Jazz and blues every Sunday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. with local singer Maryflynn Thomas. Enjoy a musical brunch of jazz and blues at St. Charles Tavern, 1433 St. Charles Avenue. 523-9823. No cover charge. Corner of Melpomene, next to Office Depot.

Sunday, September 12

TRINITY ARTISTS SERIES

Trinity Artists Series presents the Orleans Original Jazz Emsemble. Come to a  program of traditional jazz featuring Mo Calvert, Joan Pizzolato, Bill Lee, Edgar Saunders, Wally Kay, and Mizie Licciardi. The Trinity Artists Series takes place from 5-6 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 1329 Jackson Avenue.

Sunday, September 12

SUNDAY SWING
The National World War II Museum presents “Sunday Swing” at 2  p.m. Professional swing dancers are on hand to provide coaching for dancers of all levels while musicians play World War II-era hits. Lessons 2-3 p.m. Live music 3-5 p.m. 945 Magazine Street at Andrew Higgins Drive. Call 525-6012.

Sunday, September 12

Mahalia Jackson Theatre Presents - Adam Lambert
Join us for a night of Glam-tastic fun with pop artist Adam Lambert. 7 p.m., Mahalia Jackson Theatre, (800)745-3000.  $42.00

Tuesday, September 14

Toasting with Margarita at Le Booze

Join me for a drink or two when I guest-bartend at Le Booze in the Royal Sonesta Hotel  from 5 :30 to 7 p.m. with a special celebrity guest to be announced.

Tuesday, September 14

A Salute to Trumpeter Lionel Ferbos

Presented by The Historic New Orleans Collection and Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, the event celebrates the long jazz career of 99 year old trumpet player Lionel Ferbos. It takes place in Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse and the festivities begin at 6 p.m. when noted music author Jason Berry interviews the 99-year-old trumpet player at the Williams Research Center. Ferbos will share experiences performing traditional New Orleans jazz with the likes of Walter "Fats" Pichon, Sidney Desvigne, and later with Walter Payton and Lars Edegran in the legendary New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra.

Following the presentation, the evening will continue at Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon St., where Jason Marsalis, Shamarr Allen, and Irvin Mayfield himself will lead a musical "Tribute to Lionel Ferbos." The show starts at 8 p.m. Seating is limited and no reservations will be taken for the concert.

Both the presentation and the lecture are free and open to the public. For more information or to make reservations for the lecture only, call (504) 523-4662 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Wednesday, September 15

ROUND TABLE LUNCHEON- A SALUTE TO THE ARTS
The monthly Round Table Luncheon hosted by yours truly at noon at Begue's Restaurant of the Royal Sonesta Hotel will be " A Salute to the Arts" and representatives from the New Orleans Ballet Association, New Orleans Opera Association, New Orleans Museum of Art and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra have been invited as featured speakers. The entertainment will be Dorothy Parker as played by Ms. Claudia Baumgarten and pianista Jim Walpole. The three-course gourmet luncheon is only $38 and includes complimentary parking and wines to complement the food. For reservations call Noel Scallan at 504-553-2220

Have a great week and stay cool!

Margarita Bergen,
Tel/ Cell 504-495-9181 Fax/504-940-6201