What a weekend in New Orleans with Emeril and his foundation raising money for kids!

Couldn't be prouder -- for the 7th year in a row, the Birthday Bash weekend with me and Emeril brought in the highest bidders for the Carnival du Vin auction! We've raised more than $1 million with this package already. Watch out for next year's auction - we're going to reinvent it! Emeril's foundation does incredible work and it's always an honor and a blast to be part of it.

Great to see old friends (see photos of Tyler and Mario), plus new, including Janee Taylor who has become a rising star in Emeril's kitchen through her summer internship (makes me proud to provide her scholarship through The Hagar Family Foundation). Based on what I tasted you'll all know her cooking soon. Good stuff !

The Beach Bar Rum was also out in force and Emeril spread SBBR tents throughout the casual Boudin & Beer and the black tie Carnival du Vin events. Emeril & chef Chris also came up with some killer rum cocktails that I hope to share with you soon.

We love you, Emeril!