"All Cool Dude Writers know the fine art of opening Champagne. Whether aste spumante, sparkling cider, or the real stuff -- there is simply no better way to celebrate a book deal, a film deal, or a rave review.

I was instructed in the fine art of opening Champagne (as well as how to dance tango and cook soufflé) by a close friend of Stanley Marcus, of legendary Neiman-Marcus fame. That close friend was none other than my Aunt Hazel.  Aunt Hazel was a world class, jet-setting, socialite ballroom dancer — the original Auntie Mame — my mom’s fiery, red-headed younger sister. I still have the full-length Neiman-Marcus faux-fur coat that she bought me just after I’d graduated from college. Eat your heart out, fluffy pink bathrobe…"

I hope to see you there!