The “Hooked On Books” Ladies took time away from reading long enough to enjoy their annual Christmas Party on December 14, 2021, and had a fantastic time!!

POC’s Book Club, “Hooked On Books,” held its first meeting of the year on January 11, 2022, and it was a great way to start the New Year off!! January’s book, Miss Ella of Commander’s Palace, by Ella Brennan and Ti Adelaide Brennan-Martin, is about the world-famous New Orleans based Brennan Family Restaurant Dynasty.

In keeping with the French Quarter location of the Brennan restaurant, “Commander’s Palace”, the Hostesses carried out a Cajun themed fare!!! The food was fantastic, the drinks were fantastic, the Book Discussion was fantastic, the Fun was fantastic, and the trip to “Commander’s Palace of Port O’ Connor” was a BLAST!!!!
Hostesses, Cindy Hanson, and Ursula Price did an excellent job planning and executing the beautiful event!! Prior to the meal, they treated the Ladies in attendance to “Stingers” (Ella Brennan’s favorite drink consisting of Brandy, Cream de Mint, lime juice, and mint leaves served over ice); Pomegranate Mimosas; and Prosecco Sparkling Champagne.

The Event’s Menu consisted of delicious Gumbo and Rice, served with Shrimp Toast (all from our wonderful POC Beacon 44 Seafood Market}; an excellent salad of Romain lettuce covered with savory Ridgeway Dressing; and a scrumptious dessert of Emeril Lagasse’s famous Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce and vanilla ice cream, plus beverages of tea and water. Everything was divine, and the Ladies graciously thanked their wonderful hostesses!!

Following the meal, the Group had an in-depth and interesting discussion of the book, in addition to viewing You Tube videos of a chef explaining Cajun versus Creole Cooking, and a musical rendition of “The Second Line,” which were both frequent topics in Ms. Brennan’s book. The Ladies all agreed that the book was immensely entertaining and enlightening; and the affair was a wonderful way to spend the beautiful winter afternoon.

The Club’s next Meeting will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, February 8, 2022; and February’s Book is Giver of the Stars, by JoJo Moyes. If you are interested in joining “Hooked On Books, please send your contact information to alanehaardt@yahoo.com. All are welcome!!