The Grand Tasting and Military Fetishism

The day started with torrential downfall before making it to Friday night's The Grand Tasting. This unrivaled culinary event features some of the most sought out wines in the world paired alongside the tantalizing creations of some of the country’s most highly regarded culinary superstars. Chefs of Academe Maine Brasserie and Tavern at the Kennebunk Inn returned this year after their recent showcase on Food Network’s “Chopped.” The Grand Auction includes large format wine bottles, dining experiences and other wine-related goodies and benefits The Scholarship Endowment.

And finally Sunday, was the CAF West Squadron that had six CAF aircraft assigned namely Lockheed C-60A "Lodestar", North American AT-6 "Texan", Consolidated-Vultee BT-13 "Valiant", Naval Aircraft Factory N3N "Yellow Peril", Stinson S-108 "Voyager" and a major restoration project, a North American L-17 Navion. The Airport is focused on WWII aviation.

I have always been a military dream lover's fetishist. I am a WWII film and memorabilia collector.

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Spectacular Asia Week

Thursday night for the Asia Center Tiger Ball, a grand black-tie soirée that served as official opening of the center's highly-praised new home in the Museum District. The international coterie of 1,050 came from all corners of the world — the various nationalities revealed in lilting accents and the beautiful national costuming favored by many of the women. The compelling visual tapestry included the creme-de-la-creme of the city's business and social circles.

Guests gathered first for cocktails and an elaborate sushi bar in the sleek new building. Led by a parade of drummers and dancing dragons, the crowd then moved to a massive party tent, erected in the Asia Society parking lot where oak trees up-lighted in green were dramatically incorporated into the decor by Bergner & Johnson. While collections of pale green Japanese lanterns danced in the air-conditioning breezes overhead, guests sat down to a spectacular dinner by City Kitchen.

MENU

Shrimp, Mango and Cucumber Salad with Baby Spinach,

Cellophane Noodles, Golden Trout Roe and Coconut Anise Vinaigrette

Black Pepper Crusted Saddle of Lamb

with Ginger ZInfandel Jus  Braised Red Cabbage

Texas Quail with Red Chile and Chinkiang Black Rice Vinegar Glaze

Maitake Mushroom and Short Grain Rice Timbale  Sesame Asparagus

Peach and Raspberry Crisp with Pistachio Ice Cream

Friday night's Spotlight Asia: Cocktails and Cultural Fusions parties in the finest places. Tasty treats and urban beats set the tone for this glitzy revel. Hors d'oeuvres, wine, and beer plus the chance to explore the new sleek Center.

Saturday included a host of other dignitaries for the official ribbon-cutting of the new Center. This weekend opened its doors to the public with a lively weekend overflowing with performances, art-making workshops, storytelling, demonstrations, and art exhibitions. Admission was free.

Also on this day, I met and spent several hours with the grandson of the founder, Rockefeller. I found him nice, pleasant, hardworking and committed to carrying on with his grandfather's legacy. We both share common interests in bondage art. 

It just proves to show you that even in high society circles that We all have common interests in this realm.

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Kublai Khan Stir Fry "Grand Opening" Celebration

A "Grand Opening" celebration was held at the new Westchase location at 5:30pm April 11, 2012.  There was traditional and modern entertainment along with troves of food and drinks.  Featured entertainment were a Chinese Lion Dance and Gail Best.

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