Darling... Summer 2019 Social Review

French Quarter Social Scene
​with Margarita Bergen

From the July 17 Round Table Luncheon

New Orleans socialite and long-time French Quarter denizen Margarita Bergen doesn’t miss a beat  - or a party - when it comes to the Quarter’s jazzy social scene.

There are three sections to each column: Social Swirl (where Margarita's been), The Fabulous Future (what's ahead) and Quarter Buzz (things knows about that we mere mortals aren't privy to).  

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Darlings,

​I am so excited to be part of the French Quarter Journal.

 My beloved French Quarter  is indeed an extraordinary neighborhood! I have been fortunate to live in numerous cities that include Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, NYC, Ibiza, Spain.  Nothing compares to living and working in my beloved French Quarter.  

Darlings
​is sponsored by

Ever since I arrived from New York in 1978, I have considered the French Quarter my home. That's over 30 years. The exquisite Lower Pontalba Building at the corner of St. Ann and Decatur streets was home for a decade, followed  by 20 years above my gallery -- Bergen Gallery at the corner of Royal and Orleans. 

After I sold the gallery in 2000, I moved to the Faubourg Marigny. And believe me,  you can take me out of the French Quarter but not the French Quarter out of me. I have my present home for sale and I cannot wait to return to my beloved Vieux Carré. 

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The Social Swirl

Looking back, there were so many cultural and social soirees that made the long summer days seem short!  Below are just a few special occasions happening in the French Quarter, the center of my world. 

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Grand Illusions
Opening Reception - June 6

I love very much the ongoing exhibition at the Presbytere called Grand Illusions: The History and Artistry of Gay Carnival in New Orleans. The Louisiana State Museum unveiled the first-of-its-kind exhibition with a festive reception  hosted by the Friends of the Cabildo.
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The exhibit includes amazing costumes, photos, ball invitations and films of gay balls from the 1960s and '70s. It will be on view until Dec. 6, 2020, and is not to be missed!

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French Quarter Citizens
Quarterly Meeting & Potluck Dinner - June 21

I also enjoyed The French Quarter Citizens Quarterly Meeting and Potluck Dinner with Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser as a guest speaker and host. It was held at the lieutenant governor's historic Pontalba apartment on Chartres Street.  While there, I enjoyed meeting the new commander of the 8th Police District: Octavio Baldassaro Jr.

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Tales of the Cocktail
An Exercise in Restraint: July 16 - 21

In July, the French Quarter was buzzing with the spirited activities to kick off and celebrate the 17th Tales of the Cocktail, an international conference for the spirits industry.  This year the lovely Royal Sonesta Hotel was the main venue.

My favorite part is being able to meet, year after year, the people who have  made me happy - the master blenders (mixologists). One of my favorites are cocktail legends Dale DeGroff, a founder of the Museum of American Cocktail (also known as "The King of Cocktail"), as well as author Tony Abou-Ganim. 

I am proud to say I exercised a tremendous self-discipline. The spirited soirees were tempting, and I have to skip going to most of them.  But I did go late one night to the Filmore on Canal Street and a dinner for Bayou Rum at the Coterie Restaurant and Oyster Bar.  Cheers until next year!

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Round Table Luncheon
Saluting Tales of the Cocktail: July 17

I was looking forward, of course, to co-hosting my annual Round Table Luncheon Saluting Tales of the Cocktail on July 17, which celebrated my darling friendPriscilla Lawrence, who recently retired from serving as President and CEO of The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC). My co-host at the historic ballroom of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel was Caroline Rosen, president of Tales of the Cocktail Foundation.
 
During the luncheon, I was honored to present -- along with my longtime friends Daniel Hammer, President and CEO of The Historic New Orleans Collection, and John Lawrence, Director of Programs at THNOC (and husband of Priscilla) -- a city council proclamation saluting Priscilla Lawrence on her retirement.  The proclamation had been introduced at the last council meeting by my darling longtime friend, Kristin Palmer, District C Councilwoman.

Among the invited speakers were:

• Emily Madero, President & CEO of French Quarter Festivals, represented by Heather Twitchell, who spoke about the upcoming Satchmo SummerFest presented by Chevron  (coming up August 2-4!)
• Brent Rosen, the new president and CEO of the National Food and Beverage Foundation.
• Miguel Solorzano, Sazerac House General Manager

The live entertainment was by New Orleans vocalist Robin “Songbird” Barnes Casey, accompanied by pianist Jim Walpole. ​

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Satchmo Summerfest Kickoff Party
August 1

As in the past, the opening-night party and the presentation of the Satchmo awards at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel was an over-the-top entertaining and delicious jazzy soiree. 

Ellis Marsalis, one of the world’s most esteemed jazz musicians, headlined the kickoff and fundraiser, where he was joined by special guest, Ashlin Parker. The fundraiser took place at the Omni Royal Orleans (612 St. Louis St.), with Marsalis performing during the opening dinner and cocktail reception.  Three individuals received a“Spirit of Satchmo Award” for their “commitment to preserving and honoring Armstrong’s legacy.” This year, those winners were Jackie Harris (absent), Corey Henry and Ricky Riccardi.

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Louisiana Beef Picnic
August 21

On Aug. 21, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse once again transformed itself into a delicious indoor picnic venue, featuring Louisiana grass-fed beef from Gonsoulin Cattle Ranch and Louisiana Wagyu from Raines Farm.

The food was so delicious I had to escape early because I am carnivorous, and the myriad of beef dishes served were cooked to perfection.  And the red wine went so well with the beef dishes.  And, my, the desserts were so decadent that I could have devoured everything in sight!  It was indeed one of my favorite nights of the summer - and a very memorable one.

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The Fabulous Future!
I'll-Be-There-Wearing-a-Great-Hat Events

September 5, Thursday
​WWOZ Groove Gala 2019

Benefit:  WWOZ
​Venue: Tableau and Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carré
Performing:  Irma Thomas, Lena Prima, Amanda Shaw, Al "lil Fats" Jackson, Dorren Ketchens, Storyville Stompers, Gerald French and John Papa Gros
Food provided by Dickie Brennan & Company's Tableau restaurant
Open bar, dancing, dessert
Tickets

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September 6, Friday
WYES Downton Abbey Movie Countdown Party

Benefit:  WYES
​Venue:  Windsor Court Hotel
Included:  All guests receive complimentary invitation for private screening of the movie, Downton Abbey  on September 17. Champagne, specialty cocktails, specially designed cuisine
Tickets: ​limited availability
Margarita says:  I can’t wait for this party at the exquisite Windsor Court Hotel. Yes, tickets are $150, but you will also receive a ticket to their private screening, so you will see the movie before anyone else!

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​September 11, Wednesday 
​Round Table Luncheon - Saluting the Cultural Season

Venue:  Bourbon Orleans Hotel 
Hosts:  Margarita Bergen and Lisa D. Alexis, Director of the Mayor's Office of Cultural Economy
Special Guests:  More than a dozen cultural leaders from across the city.
Entertainment: Baritone Ivan Griffin.  Also Givonna Joseph and Aria Mason, co-founders of Opera Créole with pianist Ashalen Sims.  Pianist Jim Walpole and drummer Carl Mack  will perform before and after the luncheon.
Tracee Dundas, founder of the New Orleans Fashion Week is presenting a brief fashion show of Dark Garden Corsetry. 
Tickets:  The $65- all-inclusive price includes lunch, champagne/wines and valet parking. Reservations: Judy LeBlanc at (504) 571-4672 or email her at Judy.LeBlanc@BourbonOrleans.com
Margarita says:  If you love New Orleans culture, you simply must attend this luncheon the find out what's ahead!  And did you know the Round Table Luncheon is celebrating its 14th year?  Since it started on August 2005, the monthly Round Table has been attracting a distinguished guest list of influential movers and shakers. Modeled after Dorothy Parker’s famed gatherings at the old Algonquin Hotel in New York, each luncheon focuses on a current topic of interest locally within the arts, cultural activities and philanthropic initiatives that set our community apart - and enhance our quality of life.

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September 12, Thursday
Gala con Pacho - An opening night gala featuring trumpeter Pacho Flores

Venue:  Roosevelt Hotel's Fountain Lounge
Hosts:  Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Special Guests: Conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto and Pacho Flores
Tickets:  Include three-course dinner before the concert (concert tickets not included)  Limited to 75, black tie preferred.  Champagne toast in Blue Room following the performance.

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September 13, Friday
The Curtain Call Ball -Le Petit Theatre Kickoff to its 103 Season

Venue:  Tableau and Le Petit Theatre
Benefit:  Le Petit Theatre
Tickets:  Start with cocktails and Creole cuisine at Tableau and then move into the theatre for entertainment featuring Betsy Wolfe and MC/auctioneer Mark Romig. 

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September 14, Saturday
Celebrating Margarita Bergen at Noche Cubana

Venue: The Jefferson Orleans North
Hosts:  Ana Grethel Sarabia
Honoree:  Grand Diva, Margarita Bergen.  Margarita is a member of the Advisory board of the New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation. This Grand Diva was the first local Carnival Latino Queen, following the legendary Rita Moreno and Celia Cruz. She was also the Mardi Gras Mambo Queen 2017, Queen of Shangri-La 2000 and Queen of Krewe of Cork in 2002 and 2010.  Find out more about Margarita on our FQJ Krewe page. 
Entertainment:  Julio y Cesar
Tickets:  $20 includes music, dinner, dancing and Ana's famous flan cake, free parking, door prizes
Margarita says:  I know this event isn't in the French Quarter, but I'm so pleased to be honored, I want you to celebrate with me. I'll be presented with the Merit Plaque!  I'm already going through my closets making some difficult decisions! 

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September 17, Tuesday 
​Exhibit Opening/Book Launch for "Enigmatic Stream:  Industrial Landscapes of the Lower Mississippi River" 

Venue:  THNOC Tricentennial Wing, 520 Royal Street
Hosts: The Historic New Orleans Collection
Photographer Richard Sexton releases his new book, published by THNOC and the book's companion exhibit opens.
6pm - 8pm
For more info and topre-order the book. 

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September 20, Friday
River Vieux Soirée

Venue:  Riverview Room (600 Decatur, Level 4)
Hosts:  Vieux Carré Property Owners, Residents and Associates (VCPORA), Riverview Room
Patron Party 7pm - 7pm, Gala Party 7pm - 10pm
Tickets:  Patron - Champagne wall, hors d'oeuvres, music by Rainy Day Band.  Gala -  Hors d'oeuvres and culinary action stations, specialty cocktails, desserts, music by Bon Bon Vivant, silent and live auctions, cocktail attire. 
Margarita says:  I wouldn't miss this.  It should be fabulous with a wonderful view of the river!

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September 24 & 25, Tuesday & Wednesday
Happy Birthday, Mr. Faulkner! Literary Festival

Venues:  Cabildo at Jackson Square/Peter & Paul in the Marigny
Hosts: The Faulkner Society and The Louisiana State Museum
September 25:  Wild Palms Gala with signature cocktails, concert, buffet dinner, program, dancing. 
Complete information and tickets

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Circled in Red! - November 1
French Quarter Citizens Annual Fundraiser - "Jazz and Joie de Vivre"

Benefit:  French Quarter Citizens
Venue: Orleans Ballroom of the historic Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Frances and Rodney Smith, of the historic Soniat House - 2019 Gala Honorary Chairs.   
Joe and Becky Jaeger, of the New Orleans Hotel Collection - Hosts
Ms. Angela Hill, TV and radio personality - celebrity auctioneer 
Phillip Manuel - Music
Dining, open bar, dancing, live and silent auctions
Tickets

The list above represents just a few of the French Quarter (and surrounds) events found on Margarita's extremely crowded social calendar.  You'll find many (many!)  more on her blog,"A Toast to New Orleans." 

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Quarter Buzz

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From a Drag Queen Brunch at Tujague's 
to the Rex Room at Antoines

Danny Starnes and Poppy Tooker

Talking about parties, you all know that I am known for going from one to another in a matter of minutes! 
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I did so on Sunday, July 21.  I had the pleasure of stopping at Tujague's Restaurant where my darling long-time friend, author Poppy Tooker, was hosting a Tales of the Cocktail event titled Drag Queen Brunch.  Multi-faceted Poppy Tooker has spent her life immersed in the flavors of her native New Orleans. She's the hostess of “Louisiana Eats,” a featured speaker at WYES's Stepping Out, author, cooking instructor and culinary consultant.

The brunch was so much fun, I hated to leave. But at the brunch, I learned that Poppy is actually releasing her latest book, "Drag Queen Brunch," on Aug. 28 at Brennan's. I was so excited that I invited her to be my co-host for my Nov. 13 Round Table Luncheon at the Bourbon Orleans. Stay tuned; more details to follow!

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Well, I rushed out of Tujaque’s to go to the Rex Room of Antoine's to celebrate the 85th birthday of my longtime friend and former French Quarter resident, Alexandra Monet.  It was simply lovely. ​

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A Visit With Marda

Speaking of other old friends and French Quarter darlings, on my way to Nashville for the national Red Hat Society convention, I stopped in Laurel, Miss., to see beloved journalist and longtime French Quarter resident Marda Burton. 

Among many other accomplishments, Marta co-authored the classic New Orleans book, "Galatoire's, Biography of a Bistro," with Tennessee Williams scholar, Kenneth Holditch.   She sent greetings to all her French Quarter friends!

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Krewe of Stars Announces 2020 Royalty

At a Royalty Reveal Press Party on Sept. 6,Krewe of Starswill formally announce its king and queen for 2020: TV personalities Eric Paulsen, Morning Show anchor at WWL-TV and WUPL-TV and Margaret  Orr, the chief meteorologist for WDSU in New Orleans.

The party will take place on Friday, Sept. 6, from noon to 1 p.m. at The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture, 1010 Conti St. in the French Quarter. The Krewe of Stars “Show Ball 4” will take place on Jan. 18 at  Jefferson Performing Arts Center.  I cannot wait because as member of the media and the Krewe of Star, I have been invited by co-captain Carl Mack to participate!

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Hard Rock Heating Up

Dennis Pearse, third from left, with his London guests at Arthur Roger Gallery.

Another event that I can't wait for is for the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel, located on the corner of Canal and North Rampart directly across from the fabulous Saenger Theater. My longtime friend,Dennis Pearse, has been appointed general manager of the hotel. He recently hosted three famous London designers who were hired by Hard Rock to design the uniforms for the hotel. Dennis asked me and my darling friendTracee Dundas, founder and director of theNew Orleans Fashion Week, to join him in showing the London visitors our beloved New Orleans. Among the places we took them - besides the French Quarter, of course -  was to a Julia Street art opening that included Arthur Roger Gallery.

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Expecting the best! 

Reagan Charleston and Reece Thomas

Talking about babies, I was recently invited to celebrate National Tequila Day with a four-course Patrón Dinner at Nolé Restaurant owned by Al Copeland Jr.  While there I got to meet the  beautiful baby girl of  my longtime friend, Southern Charm New Orleans star, Reagan Charleston and husband Reece Thomas.   

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Darlings, I am going to be an Auntie !  At the July Round Table Lunch, talented Robin Barnes Casey announced that she is expecting a baby and I cannot wait for its arrival, since Robin already calls me "Auntie Margarita." 

Al Copeland Jr. with wife Elizabeth, and Joe Jaeger Jr.

At the same festive event,  I also enjoyed seeing longtime friend,New Orleans business and hotel magnate Joseph Jaeger Jr., who owns 15 hotels in and around the French Quarter -plus the Crowne Plaza New Orleans Airport Hotel in Kenner, and the Nottoway Plantation- in addition to The Royal Orleans and the Omni Riverfront— which he owns 50-50 with hotelier Darryl Berger. 

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Do Tell!

My darling readers and friends:  I want to hear all about your French Quarter celebrity sightings and other exciting news!  Who's got a new job, who's retiring, who's moving into our neighborhood? Email me here!