As the New Orleans Saints prepare for the highly anticipated return of football season, the team's official cheerleading squad is preparing to heat things up with the unveiling of the New Orleans Saintsations Swimsuit Calendar.

As a Sponsor of the New Orleans Saintsations, the Royal Sonesta hotel is hosting the 2014-15 Calendar Release Gala on Monday, August 11th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.   The hotel's elegant Grand Ballroom will be transformed into a black and gold extravaganza complete with a tailgate-inspired food and beverage presentation.

The Saintsations' Calendar Release Gala is the perfect opportunity to meet and mingle with the entire Saintsations Cheerleading Team.  Fox Sports NFL Sideline Reporter Jennifer Hale will serve as the event's Emcee along with other special guest appearances. Saint's mascots Gumbo and Sir Saint will also be on hand to add to the energy and excitement of this very special evening.  Tickets are $40 per person with a limited number of tickets available to the public.   

"The Saintsations' Calendar Release Gala is the first official event for the New Orleans Saintsations. At this event, the Royal Sonesta and the New Orleans Saints officially introduce the Saints Nation to this year's team members. It's become a much anticipated tradition to kick off the football season and reveal the new calendar at the Royal Sonesta hotel," says Lesslee Fitzmorris of the New Orleans Saintsations. Proceeds from the gala are earmarked for the 4th Annual "Spirit Award," a scholarship fund that was established by Lesslee Fitzmorris, President of St. All-Star and Manager of the Saintsations and Alfred L. Groos, President and General Manager of the Royal Sonesta. The scholarship fund benefits aspiring high school seniors who wish to pursue dance team or cheerleading at the collegiate level and beyond.  Last year's scholarship winner, Macie Coker from Dominican High School, will be present at this year's event. For details on the Spirit Award or to submit a nomination, please visit www.saintsations.net.

"The Saintsations epitomize the upbeat spirit of New Orleans as well as our deep appreciation and love for the New Orleans Saints organization.  We look forward to celebrating these talented women every year at the calendar unveiling. Their contagious energy is an indispensable component of a complete Saints game-day experience," explains Al Groos of the Royal Sonesta.  
New to the Saintsations squad this season is Kriste Lewis of Hattiesburg, Mississippi.   A longtime dance instructor and 40-year-old mother of two, Lewis was diagnosed with kidney disease 14 years ago which motivated her to make the most of every day.  "Today is the day, not tomorrow," Lewis said. "I don't want to let any time go. I want to make every day count."  Lewis will be presented at the August 11th Gala at the Royal Sonesta along with her teammates.  
Please join the Saintsations and help them kick-off the New Orleans Saints 2014-15 football season by purchasing the 'hottest' ticket in town.  And, be the first Saint's fans to obtain a signed copy of this year's official swimsuit calendar.  

To reserve tickets to the Official Saintsations Swimsuit Calendar Release Gala on Monday August 11th, please contact Shari Appel of the Royal Sonesta at 504-553-2221 or email her at sappel@sonesta.com.  Remember, tickets are limited, so please reserve early!

Through the years, the Saintsations have been a visual symbol of New Orleans' 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 give back to their community through non-profit service, make themselves accessible to the fans through numerous public appearances, serve as ambassadors for the city and for the State of Louisiana, and inspire young women through their example.

The 500-room Royal Sonesta New Orleans hotel is just steps away from some of the finest antique shops, art galleries and visitor attractions in New Orleans.  Selected as one of the top three 'Best Hotels in New Orleans' by U.S. News & World Report, the Royal Sonesta provides visitors with an authentic New Orleans experience. Centrally located in the heart of the historic French Quarter, the Royal Sonesta is home to Restaurant R'evolution, Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse, Desire Bistro and Oyster Bar, and PJ's Coffee Cafe.  For more information on the Royal Sonesta Hotel, please call 504-586-0300 or visit www.sonesta.com/RoyalNewOrleans.