FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Elliot Hutchinson
Zehnder Communications
(504) 962-3723
ellioth@z-comm.com

NEW ORLEANS (August 8, 2016) - Royal Sonesta New Orleans and the Saintsations are set to unveil the highly anticipated 2016-17 New Orleans Saintsations Swimsuit Calendar on Wednesday, August 24. As anticipation builds for the New Orleans Saints' 2016 regular season, the Saintsations cheerleading squad is adding to the excitement with its annual Calendar Release event. The popular event will take place from 6-8 p.m. inside the recently renovated landmark hotel, located at 300 Bourbon Street in the heart of the French Quarter.  

A limited number of event tickets are available for $40 per person by purchasing online via GuestServe at http://www.guestserve.com/geteventreservationform.cgi?1115153&4193, or by calling 504-553-2221. Each ticket to the event includes passed hors d'oeuvres and beverages plus an official Saintsations calendar. Fans will also have the opportunity to personally meet and greet all of the cheerleaders, and get their calendars autographed by the entire squad. This lively, fan-filled event is always a sellout affair, so guests are urged to purchase their tickets while supplies last.

While its Grand Ballroom is being reimagined, Royal Sonesta New Orleans' elegant Fleur de Lis Suite, its adjacent courtyard space and Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse, all located on the hotel's lobby level, will serve as the free-flowing setting for this year's extravaganza. Fox Sports NFL and NBA sideline reporter Jennifer Hale and Saints Team Ambassador Deuce McAllister will once again serve as celebrity hosts for the evening. Attendees can also expect to see Saints mascots Gumbo and Sir Saint make an appearance and entertain the night's revelers. 

"The Saintsations Calendar Release event is the first official appearance for the entire New Orleans Saintsations team. It's evolved into a beloved tradition that helps kick off the football season, and we are both thrilled and honored Royal Sonesta New Orleans is once again our partner," said Lesslee Fitzmorris, St. All-Star president and Saintsations manager.

Proceeds from the gala are earmarked for the 6th Annual "Spirit Award," a scholarship fund that was established by Fitzmorris and Royal Sonesta New Orleans general manager Alfred L. Groos. The scholarship benefits aspiring high school seniors who wish to pursue dance team or cheerleading at the collegiate level and beyond.  For details on the Spirit Award or to submit a nomination, please visit http://www.saintsations.net/.

"The Saintsations embody the spirit and enthusiasm of New Orleans Saints fans, said Groos.  "As we celebrate the very best of our city and its people, we take great pride in presenting these talented young women who also devote their time to community service. This event with its contagious energy provides an incomparable experience for Saints fans, which our hotel is thrilled to host." 

About the Saintsations:
Through the years, the Saintsations have been a visual symbol of affection for the New Orleans Saints football team.  On the field, their spirit is unwavering, their performances always entertaining and their enthusiasm infectious.  Off the field, members of the Saintsations team represent their city in countless ways.  Members routinely give back to their community through non-profit service, make themselves accessible to fans through numerous public appearances, and serve as ambassadors for the city and for the State of Louisiana. The Saintsations serve as cherished role models for countless young women who gain inspiration by their leadership both on and off the football field.

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About Royal Sonesta New Orleans:
Located in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter and steps away from some of the city's finest shopping and visitor attractions, Royal Sonesta New Orleans is a hub of authentic jazz, vibrant night life and refined southern design. The hotel is home to several dining and entertainment venues, including Restaurant R'evolution, Bar R'evolution, Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse, Desire Oyster Bar, Le Booze and PJ's Coffee Café. In addition to world-class amenities, Royal Sonesta New Orleans offers 20,000 square feet of meeting and special event space. With 483 newly appointed rooms, including 36 suites, the luxurious hotel is one of 66 properties within the Sonesta Collection. For more information, visit Sonesta.com or call 504-586-0300.