Second Harvest Food Bank is a worthy cause and I am honored they asked me to Twitter their final concert of the season, Harvest the Music.

When: Wednesday November 2nd
Where: Lafayette Square
Time: 5:00-7:30
Cost: Free but you can buy food and drink tickets there or on-line (that keeps it free). No outside food or drink
Who Is Playing: Buckwheat Zydeco and Tommy Malone of the Subdues with Ray Ganucheau
Parking, Pets, What to Bring: Click Here
Twitter Info: I am @kissmygumbo
Second Harvest New Orleans @2ndHarvestGNOA
Official Hashtag of the Harvest the Music Concert Series is #harvest
Official Hashtag of Hunger Action Month is #fighthunger
Contest: Until 8:00 central Wednesday night, your original Tweets can enter you in a drawing. There will be 6 of us in bright orange t-shirts (look for me). Find them and tweet the hunger fact written on the back of the shirt. Each person who posts the weekly featured hunger fact to twitter, including the hashtag( #fighthunger), will be entered to win. No RTs to enter. See the rules here
Extras: There will be an Entergy tent at the concert where attendees can go for additional #FightHunger goodies, to drop can goods to donate and an ipad station to “like” the Entergy Power to Care Facebook page. For each new like, Entergy will donate $2.50 to the food bank which means nearly 10 additional meals for our community.

Also – give a like to Second Harvest Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans & Acadiana on Facebook

***Hope to see you there or at least Tweet me:)

The Windsor Court Hotel was on my bucket list of places to stay in New Orleans, and I can finally check it off. I was already a huge fan of the hotel, having been named as one of Windsor Court’s 140 Characters of New Orleans last year, dining there a couple of times with my WWII hero friend, Sir JJ Witmeyer, who even had his 90th birthday bash there as he loves it so much.

The Windsor Court Hotel defines New Orleans top notch class, style, elegance, true Southern hospitality with spectacular accommodations and a prime location. It is the perfect place for locals to slip away for a night and get spoiled or for out-of-towners to enjoy our fabulous city.
~Greta Perry~

As you drive into the beautiful front circle, tucked quietly off Gravier Street, you will be greeted by the friendly valets. Not the norm in New Orleans, Windsor Court offers complimentary parking for their guests. Correction with the parking prices – it is $32 a night with tax= $35.84. The attentive valets immediately helped us and our bags out of your car with warmest greetings. We then headed into the beautiful lobby, with the adjoining salon, adorned with a multitude of flowers. We swiftly checked in and headed up to our Club Suite, where we were treated to an unobstructed view of the river that was simply spectacular. The main room had a desk, comfy couches, a TV, lots of seating and a balcony. We felt immediately at home there. Our bags were quickly dropped off and we received a room and hotel briefing. The spacious bedroom was adjoining, leading to a room with a vanity, then the bathroom (ours did not have a tub). Everything was just spectacular – we were so pleased.

As Club Level guests, we gained access to many extra complimentary treats at the Club Lounge on the 22nd floor. It is a huge area with multiple rooms with the same spectacular view of the river we had from our room. Beautiful flowers and comfortable seating adorned the rooms with some print and electronic media, 2 outdoor balconies and a fireplace. We went up there for the cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres that were available from 5-9. There are beverages available there most the day. We were so at home and relaxed up there that my husband was caught snoozing on the couch after devouring a bunch of the gourmet food and a few imported beers.

Next, we were off to reservations at The Grill Room which adjoins the gorgeous Polo Club Lounge. We were seated at one of the semi-circle couches that faced the lounge and the musical entertainment. The perfect romantic seat!!! Everything we ate was fabulous and the service matched. We dined on the bread variety offered to us, I had a Mozarella and tomato salad, the shrimp appetizer for an entree with truffle grits, while hubby had his steak and potatoes. We finished up with a dessert and then headed over to the lounge for cocktails and bar snacks. We continued to enjoy the live entertainment until it was time to turn in. Upon returning to our room, bathrobes were laid on the bed with slippers placed on the floor, with chocolates on the nightstand.

The next morning, we once again enjoyed our Club Lounge privileges and ate the huge continental breakfast spread while drinking coffee and reading the paper in the sun. Checkout is at noon – which was perfect as we had to head home from our little overnight excursion. I truly have nothing but rave reviews from our stay. The staff goes out of there way to make you feel at home and make sure your needs are being met. There is also a huge hotel pool, nice health club, lots of rooms for functions and business. It is conveniently located across from Harrah’s, in walking distance to the French Quarter, Convention Center, Riverfront and Warehouse District. One of these days I need to attend their Afternoon Teas in The Salon (off the lobby).

Lobby and Club Suite pictures

Club Lounge

Grill Room

Slippers and robe

***Disclaimer: Greta was not paid for this review. However, she was given a promotional rate for her room and a complimentary dinner. Her husband is now a huge fan and she anticipates more nights and dinners there in the future.

Well…I won’t even begin to tell you how overdue this post is – damn life. This summer, hubby and I walked on over to The Bombay Club to visit someone we are big fans of, Cheryl Charming aka Miss Charming. And what we got…was the “Miss Charming Experience.” First off, let’s talk about the Bombay Club. It is a very charming (pun intended) bar, nestled in the French Quarter on 830 Conti Street (a little off our usual bar crawl route). Not sure if this is an insult or not…but the bar kind of reminds me of a classy, upscale Cheers with quiet dinners being enjoyed off to the side with a beautiful wood bar dominating the room. Hanging over the bar are an assortment of vintage glasses that Cheryl has acquired since she came on board. We cozied up to the bar after a big hug from Cheryl and were presented with the newly designed cocktail menus she created. I went for the froofy Wedding Cake Tini, while hubby stuck to his Abita Amber. Yes…the drink was as amazing as it looks!!!.

So what else is in the Miss Charming experience? Glad you asked. She has never met a stranger and we were quickly introduced to those around us. If we looked anti-social I am sure she would have understood that and left us alone. But she got that we were out for a good social time..it is NOLA after all! She then broke out the iPad bar trivia app that she created. Hubby always enjoys trivia, so was thoroughly entertained by playing even though he failed at it miserably! Then it was picture time: pictures of me with her that she put on Facebook (she always puts them there) and pictures with the Marilyn Monroe cutout making rounds throughout the club.
Cheryl is also a great magician and knows every bar trick in the book (I think she wrote that book too – she wrote so many) so she could go on for hours to entertain you. Ohhh…then there was the prize she gave me. She makes the cutest rings and let me pick a number and choose a prize. Who doesn’t love prizes?

Having been to The Bombay Club only once before with a group of people (we sat in an adjoining room), I feel comfortable you that this place is worth a stop. There is usually live music, energy for those looking for it or opportunities to sit quietly. Next on our list is to dine there as we hear the food is very good. Miss Charming does not work every night…but if you get lucky enough to hit the place when she is there – enjoy! Hubby left saying, “Cheryl really made that place a lot of fun. You can just go to a bar or you can be entertained by all her little quirky things that really made going there an extra good time.”

This post is intended to celebrate the life of LTC Heath Austin Kelly, age 35, as his Grandmother, Janet Scaruffi wants us to do. She also wants Americans to understand how important these patriots that sacrifice so much for our freedoms, are to our country.

The nation was mortified when we heard of the breaking story about a crazed gunman going into an IHOP in Carson City, Nevada; randomly killing 4 people – 3 of them National Guardsmen, and wounding 7 others. Sadly, for one local family, this tragedy has hit home for them. Janet’s daughter, Heath’s Aunt, Patty Angell, notified me and has sent me many things about Heath – all are included below. This post may be updated.

Arrangements
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Visitation: 8 to 11 a.m.
Service: 11 a.m.
The Vineyard Church
4340 Sal Lentini Blvd.
Kenner, LA 70065

Thank you to the Patriot Guard Riders for helping to honor Heath’s service to his country.

September 6th

Our family has suffered another loss of a loved one today. My sister, Kathy, lost her only child, my nephew, Heath Austin Kelly. He was killed by an assailant in Nevada, who walked into an IHOP and opened fire on eleven people before killing himself. Heath is one of the two killed. Two months ago, Heath became a father for the second time to a son, Tristen. Please keep his wife, Tracy; five-year old daughter, Kassidy; baby, Tristen, and mother in your prayers.

I also ask your prayers for my parents who must now bury their oldest grandson, Heath, within a year of burying their youngest grandson, Matthew.

Kathy, Julie and Tony are flying to Nevada in the morning to be with Tracy.

love,
Patty

Obituary for Lt. Colonel Heath Austin Kelly
Lt. Colonel Heath Austin Kelly, a native of Kenner, LA was killed on September 6, 2011 in Carson City, NV at the age of 35. Born to Kathleen Scaruffi and Kenneth Kelly, he graduated John Curtis Christian School, 1994 and Norwich University, 1998. He was active duty U.S. Army 1998-2005 as a field artillery officer. He has been a member of the Nevada National Guard since 2007. He served 15 months as Battalion Administrative Officer for the 991st Troop Command prior to his current post as Major of the Joint Force Headquarters in Carson City, NV a position held since August, 2010. His decorations include commendations and medals from the U.S. Army; Global War on Terrorism, National Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Defense Service Medal and Iraq Campaign. With an unselfish heart, he lived his life enjoying and protecting that which he loved – God, country, family and community. A man of integrity with a great sense of humor, Heath was the devoted husband of Tracy Chu Kelly, father of a four year old daughter, Kassidy and a nine week old son, Tristan. Grandson of Janet Van Hees and Louis Scaruffi, and the late Anna Mae Cronan and Robert J. Kelly. Brother of Seth A. Kelly, Sias A. Kelly (Janel), Lt. Gerald Sachitano, Jr. U.S.N. (Nicole). Nephew of Patty Scaruffi Angell, Tony Scaruffi, Julie Scaruffi Gaspard (Larry), James Scaruffi, Denise Kelly Holzhauser (Barry), Robert Kelly and Valerie Vanney. Also survived by nieces, nephews other family members and friends.
A funeral service, followed by military honors, will be held at Vineyard Church, 4340 Sal Lentini Pkwy., Kenner on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation at church from 8:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. In lieu of usual remembrances please consider a donation to the Heath Austin Kelly Children’s Fund, which can be made at any Metairie Bank location. Arrangements by L. A. Muhleisen and Son.

WWL TV September 7th



NOLA.com September 7th article about Heath given by his Aunt Julie on behalf of the family.

RGJ.com September 8th is wonderful dedication to his life.

KRNV Reno, NV September 8

WWL TV September 8
— Maj. Heath Kelly, 35, of Reno. Brig. Gen. William R. Burks said Kelly was a decorated officer and avid student of military history who was known for his dry sense of humor. Kelly was married with two kids.

WGNO
 

For 3 years in a row, my hubby and I have celebrated our July 27th anniversary in New Orleans for a weekend with Tales of the Cocktail. It has become a great local tradition for us. We can escape for 2 nights across the lake to the French Quarter and completely enjoy ourselves. This year was no exception, but the first year we did not go with a group of people. We decided we needed some “alone” time while attending Tales and enjoying the Hotel Monteleone and we got it! We ate, drank, walked the Quarter, shopped, hung out at the pool and left feeling completely refreshed and yes…like honeymooners:)

You see, every July, in the middle of the unforgiving heat of a New Orleans summer, Tales of the Cocktail becomes a welcome refresher to the city. This ever-growing event, brings in tourists from all over the country – the world – as well as locals, who drink in all New Orleans has to offer. It is a welcome boom to the tourist industry of New Orleans as it also provides a great economic boost. The brain-child of my dear friend, Ann Tuennerman, along with her staff of “Cocktail Angels,” college interns and a local volunteer force (including my oldest son), this meticulously planned week long event always exceeds ones expectations of how events should be run. The Hotel Monteleone becomes the headquarters for the event that branches out to hot spots all over the city. The Tales brand is even plastered on the elevator and leaks into every crevice of the hotel, creating a huge buzz of excitement for cocktail enthusiasts, professionals, media and alcohol brand ambassadors from all over the world. There is something for everyone at Tales, and if you are not sure what it is about – a cocktail and culinary experience pretty much sums it up. It is one classy event after the other with attendees of all ages who are there to enjoy themselves and possibly learn something too.

I have media credentials (tweeted and Facebooked away this year – no radio show anymore), but chose to purchase the Native Spirit package for the both of us. No sense going on a romantic getaway if we can’t be together for every event. Now – being that our marriage is a give and take thing – hubby vetoed many of the festivities I would have liked to attend. So when I say we attended Tales – we truly did not do “that” much. Friday night we attended the USBG Bacardi Piña Colada Competition. We sampled tons of delicious drinks and a few lousy ones and voted on our favorites. Saturday eye-opener was a fantastic Bloody Mary Bar sponsored by Absolut Vodka in the Carousel Bar and a Kahlua coffee bar in the mezzanine. I thoroughly enjoyed putting all the toppings on my coffee with a Kahlua and Espresso shot! Saturday brunch was thrown by Chef Matt Murphy of the newly opened The Irish House. Everything we ate was simply spectacular and we look forward to visiting his new establishment. Saturday night we attended “Party Like a Don,” sponsored by Don Julio tequila. We hung out on the couches and sipped tequila drinks until well…we both knew Don would not be our friend in the morning. On Sunday, it was a fantabulous brunch thrown by Mr. & Mrs. Cocktail (Tuennerman) in the Vieux Carre room in the Hotel Monteleone (best view of city). And then sadly….we needed to get home to the little angels.

One of these years we will attend the Spirited Dinners and enjoy some tasting rooms!!! Buy your tickets as early as possible for next year and also book your hotels. Mostly everything sold out!

Pictures: Bloody Mary Bar, Kahlua coffee, Don Julio peach drink, Don Julio event

2010 post is here and 2009 is here.

If the weather holds out…5:00 Zephyrs game tonight versus the Iowa Cubs. This will be followed by a makeup game from last night’s weather cancellation.

Military Night: We salute the nation’s military by offering free tickets to all military personnel and their families (four tickets per military ID). The Zephyrs will be wearing camouflage jerseys, which will be auctioned at the end of the night, with proceeds benefiting military families.

There will also be a t-shirt give-away for 1st 1,000 fans and fireworks afterward.

Make sure to say hi to Boudreaux and Clothille:)

A sweetheart of a local New Orleans gal, Kalen @lunanola , is celebrating her birthday this year by generously helping Japan. She has such a kind heart, so I ask you to join her in her birthday wish, to raise money for Japan (she lived there as a Navy brat). Now, the fun part is, you can also go eat sushi and help. Or if you can’t, you can make a donation on-line to Sushi for Sendai.

Her on-line invitation is here. You do not have to know her to attend, as a matter of fact, nothing would make her happier than to see an outpouring of local support for her cause. So come on…yours truly plans on attending (still working kid logistics out) and hopes to see you there too!

Wednesday, April 13 from 8:00pm – 10:00pm
Yokohama Sushi
201 Baronne Street
New Orleans, LA

#lunanolasushi if you want to follow along on Twitter.

Yours truly will be on an upcoming panel of bloggers for the New Orleans chapter of the American Marketing Association. The topic is, “To blog or not to blog.” I will have the good fortune of being able to sit alongside some outstanding women: Shannon Hurst Lane, Erika Lehmann and Bridgette Duplantis. Should be a blast and hope to see you there!

WHEN: Thursday, April 7, 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM

WHERE: N’Tini’s, 2891 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, .5 miles east of Causeway Blvd., (985) 626-5566

COST: Members: $30.00 Non-members: $35.00 Students: $25.00
*For those that do not RSVP, a $5 surcharge will be added to the event price at the door.

RSVP: by the deadline of April 4, 2011

Click here to sign up.

This is our 5th Mardi Gras season in the New Orleans area. Along with the traditional holiday and seasonal decorations, I now have a small collection of bows and baubles for Mardi Gras. I love driving around New Orleans and/or walking through the French Quarter and seeing all the effort people put into Mardi Gras. Balconies, doorways, windows, porches…all beautiful. Here are a couple of pictures from Dumaine Street in the French Quarter.

Influx in Puppies Results in an LA/SPCA Puppy Party

New Orleans (February 14, 2011) – The Louisiana SPCA (LA/SPCA) will be hosting a Puppy Party on Saturday, February 19, 2011 from 10am-2pm at the Animal Rescue and Care Center at 1700 Mardi Gras Blvd. Following an influx in dogs under 4 months of age the LA/SPCA decided to approach these puppy adoptions in a festive way.

All puppies will be showcased at the Animal Rescue and Care Center. Volunteers will be on hand to assist with interactions and adoptions. Special puppy adoption sessions will be held every half hour starting at 10:20am to educate new pet owners on the joys and challenges of bringing a puppy home.

Standard adoption procedures apply. Renters are required to produce proof of pet friendly housing. A family with another dog will have to bring their dog in for a meet and greet with the new puppy. All family members should be present when picking out a puppy, including children. The LA/SPCA will not hold any puppies during this time period.

“We are so excited to throw this Puppy Party,” says Ana Zorrilla, LA/SPCA CEO, “we want these puppies to find loving forever homes as quickly as possible.”

Dogs under six months of age find homes much faster than any other animal in the Animal Rescue and Care Center. Armed with this knowledge and the irresistible cute factor of puppies, the LA/SPCA is confident all of the puppies will be in new homes by the end of the party.

The adoption fee for puppies under six months is $150. This fee includes spay/neuter, all vaccinations, microchipping, a bag of puppy food, two month supply of heartworm medication, and one month supply of flea medication, an over $400 value. Dogs over 6 months and over 20 lbs, and all cats and kittens are available as well. The adoption fee for these animals is $80.

The LA/SPCA plans to showcase at least 30 puppies under 4 months of age. Breeds range from Rottweiler to Louisiana Special (mutt).