Monday, August 31, 2009

Senator Kennedy & PartyCharlie:

First of all… YES, that’s me, sporting a beard with Senator Ted Kennedy. I first met the Senator in 1983 at Senator Tunney’s home, for an event for Governor Jerry Brown. Linda Ronstadt was one of the many celebrities in attendance, and the rumor making the rounds, was that Governor Jerry Brown was dating the internationally acclaimed singer.

A few years later, in 1994, I once again had the pleasure to meet Senator Ted Kennedy at a fundraiser I catered for Gray Davis, who was campaigning for Governor of California. It was a full service brunch with all the pomp and fanfare one would expect for an event of that magnitude. The outstanding event included the very finest smoked salmon, a breathtaking bakery display, assorted fresh squeezed juices, a cappuccino bar, top-flight chefs cooking gourmet omelets to order, all accompanied by a full white linen style service.

I noticed that the Senator was not eating. I approached him in my PartyCharlie way, and asked if I could prepare something else for him. The Senator explained that he and his wife, Vicki, already had breakfast, and would wait for lunch. I was delighted to tell him that I had a wonderful, homemade lasagna, for our staff meal, accompanied by our trademark Caesar Salad with Garlic Cheese Croutons. The Senator smiled, and asked if there would be enough for him and his wife. I returned the smile with a resounding, YES! Plus seconds!

The senator later asked what my last name was. I said SCOLA. He replied, “HA! Italian! No wonder why the Lasagna was so great!” I told him about the time I met him at Governor Brown’s event, and wondered if I could have a picture with him. He said he’d be delighted. It’s a picture that I’ve cherished for a long time, and I’m very happy to be able to share it with you.

A few years later, a good client of mine called, and asked me to create an event for Senator Barbara Boxer and Senator Diane Feinstein. My client said, “By the way, Senator Ted Kennedy is coming, and has requested your magnificent lasagna.” Well, you can imagine how that made me feel. On the day of that event, I brought the picture with me, and asked the Senator to sign it. I never asked for an endorsement on the lasagna, but I was happy to get it!

Senator Kennedy has been in the public eye for a long time, and I’m sure he will be greatly missed. I would like to take this time to give my most sincere condolences to his family, and friends.

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For the ultimate in Party Tips, read my book; “Party Planning Secrets: The Ultimate Guide To A Successful Party.” Go to: http://www.atlasbooks.com/marktplc/02172.htm to purchase!

My “Five Steps for Creating the Energy for an Outrageously Successful Party,” will provide you with all the necessary ingredients to plan and host memorable events that you and your guests will rave about. Whether you’re planning a fundraiser, grand opening, holiday party or family celebration, let my 30+ years in the party planning and catering business be your guide to hosting an outrageously successful and stress-free event. Order your book today!

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Monday, August 17, 2009

Wine Of The Month:

KUNDE ESTATE – Magnolia Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Crisp, clean, and fresh, it reminds one of the warm Sonoma Valley sun that has ripened sweet grapes on the Kunde Family Estate for over 100 years. When you're feeling a little warm you can enjoy a cool glass brimming with flavors of musky cantaloupe, exotic guava, and crisp grapefruit, with just a hint of fresh-mown grass to add complexity. Do yourself a favor and try this with some smoky grilled vegetables and shrimp skewers.

For the ultimate in Party Tips, read my book; “Party Planning Secrets: The Ultimate Guide To A Successful Party.” Go to: http://www.atlasbooks.com/marktplc/02172.htm to purchase!

My “Five Steps for Creating the Energy for an Outrageously Successful Party,” will provide you with all the necessary ingredients to plan and host memorable events that you and your guests will rave about. Whether you’re planning a fundraiser, grand opening, holiday party or family celebration, let my 30+ years in the party planning and catering business be your guide to hosting an outrageously successful and stress-free event. Order your book today!

Sign Up For My FREE Monthly Newsletter: http://www.charliescola.com/