Five Chefs Five Courses

Louisiana Hospitality Foundation honors chefs at their upcoming gala.

No trip to New Orleans is complete without an exquisite meal. And sometimes gastronomy and philanthropy cross paths to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

The 4th Annual Gold Medal Chefs Gala is just such an event. On Wednesday, June 24th the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation will be hosting this gala and honoring five incredible chefs while raising money to support their programs.

Many people budget for one "splurge" meal on their vacations and plan with a reservation at an expensive restaurant. But consider spending a comparable amount at a fundraising event where your dollars will not only provide you with excellent food and drink, but you will also be contributing to vital community work that supports your vacation destination.

This year's Gold Medal Chefs Gala will honor Jeffrey Hansell of Oxlot 9; Phillip Lopez of Root/Square Root; Gus Martin of Tableau; Ryan Prewitt of Peche; and Alon Shaya of Shaya/Domenica/Pizza Domenica.

"We are honored to have five of the state's best chefs to prepare the menu for this year's gala," said Greg Reggio, event co-chair and director for the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation. "This year's slate features two James Beard Award winners, as well as others who have achieved some of the highest levels of culinary excellence recognition. The menu will be delectable with this level of talent in the kitchen!"

A ticket to the gala, located at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, includes an open bar cocktail hour with a silent auction, and a five-course seated dinner and wine with dishes prepared by Louisiana celebrity chefs. Guests will also experience the awards ceremony, which will honor those in the hospitality industry of Louisiana who make a significant impact in the lives of others.

The money raised from the gala will help the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation continue their mission to facilitate the efforts of the hospitality industry to improve Louisiana in a variety of ways and to provide support for the education, health and social welfare of children in the community. The Foundation works to focus the combined strength of the Louisiana hospitality industry, maximizing its ability to measurably improve the communities it serves. 

They have contributed to projects at organizations including an outdoor kitchen at the Bayou District Foundation, the renovation of the Kids' Caf? at the Louisiana Children's Museum, and the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Programs at Delgado Community College. Since its inception in 2006, the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation has distributed more than $1 million in support of its mission.

To attend this special event, tickets can be purchased individually or by the table. Individual tickets are $150 and a table for ten is a $1,500 contribution. The deadline to purchase tickets is June 23rd. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit their website at www.goldmedalchefs.com

5th Kenner Hispanic Summer Fest 2015 at the renowned Kenner Laketown (Williams Blvd and the Lake) next to Treasure Chest Casino.

Saturday June 25th from 3pm - 12pm / Sunday 2pm - 10pm
 Events will include activities for the entire family, so bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy a family oriented fun day in Kenner, celebrating the rich Latin culture.

Admission is free and open to the general public.  The festival will include live music, dance, arts and crafts, Hispanic cuisine and refreshments.

Outside food, drink, and pets are not allowed

 Oculto is available on shelves and at high-end bars, clubs and restaurants nationwide. Inspired by and brewed for nightlife, Oculto combines the social invitation of beer with the exciting nature associated with tequila-for a step in creating an entirely new category.

Oculto is infused with blue agave for a bright citrus flavor that delivers a smooth, bold taste. With a premium look, unique flavor, seductive positioning and 6-percent ABV, Oculto is designed to tap into late night occasions.

"Beer drinkers and partygoers are seeking unique, surprising 'mash-up' experiences," said Jorn Socquet, vice president of marketing, Anheuser-Busch. "We worked off untapped insights to bring an innovation that delivers against that expectation. We have a totally surprising brand that revolves around mystery and intrigue-with a product that hits home with consumers looking for ways to break free from the everyday and find something exciting ... an unexpected 'mash-up.'"

Oculto means "hidden" or "waiting to be found" in Spanish. Bringing the brand to life right out of the gate, Oculto launched on Friday the 13th to emphasize unparalleled positioning that will carry over to all consumer engagement moments. From immersive events to engaging social media to best-in-class partnerships, it is all about tapping into the spontaneous nights out with friends. In 2015, the secrets of Oculto will be revealed-and consumers will be inspired to share secrets of their own.

Oculto packaging is an innovation in and of itself. It brings to life a look that is premium, seductive and energetic. It features a multi-sensory experience, including multiple crown graphics, tactile printing and black-light inks. The Oculto bottle has a signature mask shape and detailed embossing for a distinctive look and feel. A host of discoverable elements are embedded in the bottle design, including hidden messages and eyes that appear when cold. The can also showcases a tactile feel that is a breakthrough for beer in the U.S.