The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) has proudly revealed the 2024 Tales Catalyst honorees, celebrating remarkable individuals in the cocktail industry who are championing inclusivity and innovation. This year’s International Honoree is Becky Paskin, while Keyatta Mincey Parker is recognized as the U.S. Honoree, with the accolades presented by Diageo Bar Academy.
Tales Catalyst aims to highlight those making significant strides in creating a more inclusive cocktail industry. The honorees were selected for their outstanding contributions, with a particular focus on fostering a space free of gender and identity barriers. The awards will be presented during Tales of the Cocktail® on Tuesday, July 23 at 3:00 PM at The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans. Attendees will hear inspiring speeches from the honorees, followed by a cocktail hour.
Becky Paskin: An acclaimed whisky journalist, presenter, and consultant, Becky Paskin has made a significant impact through her advocacy for equality in the whisky industry. She is the founder of the OurWhisky Foundation and has been recognized with numerous awards, including Icons of Whisky Communicator of the Year. Paskin’s work celebrates women in whisky, ensuring they have a prominent place in the conversation.
Keyatta Mincey Parker: Known for her innovative approach to cocktails, Keyatta Mincey Parker is the Chief Curating Officer at Pictures and Cocktails LLC. With over two decades of experience, she has been celebrated by Forbes, Food and Wine, and Southern Living Magazine, among others. Parker is also the Founder and Executive Director of A Sip of Paradise Garden, a non-profit community garden for hospitality professionals in Atlanta. (see headline photo)
Guests are invited to celebrate these industry trailblazers during Tales of the Cocktail® on July 23. Tickets are available on the TOTCF website. This event promises to be a significant gathering for those passionate about advancing inclusivity in the drinks industry.
Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, advancing, and supporting the global hospitality industry. This year’s conference, themed “Inspire,” will take place in New Orleans from July 21-26, 2024, marking its 22nd anniversary.
For more information, visit the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation website or follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
We probably won't see a white Christmas in Austin, but don't let that ruin your…
The LINE Austin has unveiled their latest concept, Cantero, a bar that takes mixology to…
The demand for sugar free hard candy is on the rise, especially among those managing…
Thanksgiving in Austin is a time for festive feasting, and there’s no shortage of delightful…
Pursuit Farms has become a beacon for discerning palates seeking the finest Wagyu beef available…
New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…