Ambush magazine volume 30 issue 09 by Ambush Publishing

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 3

2012 Expenses: 50.25 Parade Permit 2,400.00 Police Detail 3,837.50 Insurance 730.00 Easter Grand Marshal Carriages 500.00 Band 1,040.00 Spring Fever 1,345.00 Bunnies In The Big Easy 9,902.75 Total Expenses

the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

Splash Beach Fest Memorial Day Weekend in Pensacola, Florida

PLASH Beach Fest will be held at Park East on Pensacola Beach Friday-May 25, Saturday-May 26th & Sunday-May 27th from noon until 7pm daily. The weekend festival will feature bar service, food and entertainment as well as a lineup of incredible DJs. All this and more under an 11,000 square foot pavilion. The daily festivities from noon until 7pm are open to the public with free admission for 18 and up. Bring your tents, cabanas, beach gear and leave the rest to Beach Fest personnel. They will have available a wide assortment of your favorite foods and snacks. It goes without saying that Beach Fest bars will be overflowing with ice cold cocktails, beer and other beverages. On Friday, DJ Dewight Barkley kicks off the SPLASH Beach Fest at 2pm with the Welcome Party. The weekend continues on Saturday at 2pm when DJ JayR turns up the heat for a sizzling afternoon of fun in the sun. DJ Tim Pflueger rounds out the weekend on Sunday at 2pm with Pensacola’s hottest tea dance ever! The highlight of the weekend will be Saturday night’s much anticipated WAVE dance party from 10pm until 4am featuring the international talent of DJ/ Producer Joe Gauthreaux and direct from New York, the infamous Bianca Del Rio. The “glowing” theme for this year’s party is a Black Light Beach Bash. Tickets to WAVE can be purchased in advance for $40 at www.memorialweekendpensacola.com or at the Hampton Inn on the Beach Welcome Center on Friday & Saturday from noon until 6pm. Get more weekend information at www.memorialweekendpensacola.com or join facebook.com/memorialweekendpensacola. Splash Beach Fest sponsors are Ambush Mag and JustCircuit.COM.

13th Gay Easter Parade to Donate A Whopping $36,252 to Food For Friends

he 13th annual Gay Easter Parade will donate a whopping $36,252 to Food For Friends this year thanks to the generosity of the GLBT community. The parade minus expenses has benefited charity for the past 11 years, bringing total donations now to over $147,439! Led by Easter Grand Marshals XIII Darwin Reed and Rhonda Roget, the 2012 parade brought some 47 units to the streets of the French Quarter including Pair-A-Dice Tumblers, New Orleans Bears walking group, carriages, wagons, trolleys, cars, and trucks on Easter Sunday, April 8. Highlights appear in this issue. The parade raised an incredible $46.154.75 with most of it raised in a quick 6-week period leading up to Easter. Expenses were $9,902.75 leaving a whopping $36,252 to the parade's charity, Food For Friends this year, a vital service of NO/AIDS Task Force.

inside

The financial report follows: 2012 Revenues: 17,419.00 Sponsorships 504.00 2nd Sponsorship Party 4,964.00 11th Drag Extravaganza 2,562.00 4th Eggstravaganza 5,802.00 10th Spring Fever 6,621.75 13th Purple Party 7,397.00 3rd Bunnies in The Big Easy 275.00 Parade Entry Fees 5.00 Parade Day Donation 605.00 4th Fruit Loop Chili CookOFF 46,154.75 Total Revenues

Pre-Memorial Weekend/Mother's Day edition out May 8th ~ DEADLINE: Tues., May 1st

gep thank you for $36,152 5 under the gaydar 10 pride beyond the rainbow 14 email/letters, chop chop 14 celebrazzi 16 bunnies in the big easy paparazzi 18 gay easter parade paparazzi 22 gay easter parade paparazzi 23

pensacola paparazzi classifieds ambush paparazzi/new orleans 4th chili cook-off paparazzi trodding the boards gep pre & post parade pics ambush paparazzi/new orleans ambush paparazzi/new orleans

Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

24 26 30 32 34 36 38 39

2012 Donation 36,252.00 Food For Friends Thanks in large part to Easter Grand Marshals XIII Darwin Reed and Rhonda Roget for their efforts helping bring in 73 sponsors, the largest number in the parade's history.

DuBois, Starr Daniels & Justin Moffatt, Ranzy Montet & Creig Istre, Michael Durocher, Orlando Aloe/Society Page, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon, Glenn O'Berry & Roger Copenhaver, Michael Strickland, Steve Patrick, King AmonRa XLIV Nick Olivares & Roy Smith, Josie Mae Cotton & Rudy Snyder, Frank & Peter Abbruscato, Bebe Scarpinato, New Orleans Bear and Bear Trapper Social Club, Frankie Fierce & Dusty Debris, Freddie Guess/Fredrick Guess Studio, David Berni, Jeffrey Palmquist & Coca Mesa, Randy Chesnut/The Drama Club-Houma, Jill Dolese, Billy Matthews & Tony Phillips, Tubby's Golden Lantern, Michael Sullivan, Thomas Schoonenberg, EGM II Larry [continued on 8]

THE OFFICIAL MAG

Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Louisiana-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide Official Southern Decadence Guide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049

Easter Grand Marshals XIII Darwin Reed & Rhonda Roget A very special thanks to all sponsors including: Presenting-Ambush Mag, Ketle One Vodka; Platinum-EGM XII Elizabeth Bouvier; Gold-EGM XIII Rhonda Roget & King Amon-Ra XLVII David Forth, EGM XIII Darwin Reed & EGM VII Opal Masters, Stuart Nettles & EGM IX Safonda Peters, Krewe of Amon-Ra, Joann & Lisa Guidos/Kajun's Pub, EGM XII Gary Vandeventer, Todd J. Blauvelt, Electra City & Tittie Toulouse, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, Kevin Sullivan; Silver-EGM VIII Rona Conners & Bob Boler, Dwain Hertz - Al Dugas & Gene Theriot, Deja Deja-Vue' & James May, Terry Woodard & Rick Kuzmyak/ Bungalows, Oz New Orleans, Wood Enterprises, David Richerson/Salon Versailles, Queen Amon-Ra XLVII Dr. Barry Rutherford, Jerry Scavo & Kenny Walker, Michael Cookmeyer/Michael's On The Park, Therese & John Vignone, Michael J. Ducote & Douglas W. Minich, EGM VIII Michael Elias & Jay Sewell/ The Corner Pocket, Glen Kahrman & Noel Twilbeck, Johnson Mire & Fernandez/CPAs, PFLAG New Orleans, DB & Caroline Carnes, Mona Lisa Restaurant, Atlanta's Ron & Barry; Bronze-EGM X Tony Leggio, Dawn Leggio, King Cake Queen XIX Nicole

ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ in print/780,000+ On-line CIRCULATION: Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi

STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Paul Melancon 504.357.8440 paulmelancon_ambushmag@yahoo.com THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Devin, Tony Leggio, Kyler Landry, Rev. Bill Terry, Rory Wright-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-Pensacola, FL Ambush Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip Naquin-Delain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2012, AMBUSH, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation

4 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 5

the "official" dish ...from 4 Bagneris, James Stevens, Toby Lefort & Al Herrera/Club LAX, Laurie Aicklen/ Spudly, TJ Conrad, Marty Curtin & Koo Gaffney, Icons/LAX in memory of Marcy Marcell, Icons/LAX in memory of Marcy Marcell, Bootsie DeVille, Lee Worrells, Jo-Jo Holdings, Ben Bourgeois & Pat Johnson, Celebrating Chuck Turner & Bill Miller's 41st Anniversary/Purple Party, Hoyle A. Byrd, Anonymous, Matt McCulla; Venue/In Kind-700 Club, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop, Club LAX, Cutter's, The Double Play, Good Friends Bar, Larry Graham, Michael's On The Park, Oz, Rawhide, Ritz-Carlton. For additional information visit GayEasterParade.COM or Facebook.COM/GayEasterParade.

3rd Bunnies in The Big Easy Raises $10,147 @ Ritz-Carlton

ood Friday, April 6th brought revelers to the prestigious Ritz-Carlton 12th floor Crescent View Ballroom for the 3rd annual Bunnies In The Big Easy: Put the Good Back in Friday. The event raised $10,147, the largest fundraising one night total in the history of the Gay Easter Parade which benefits Food For Friends. Under the direction of GEP Board's Tony Leggio and Rona Conners, the evening boasted complimentary culinary delights, vodka cocktails, wine, beer and soft drinks along with DJ Rockin’ Ron, hot bunny boys, 50/50 raffle, incredible live auctions, and a special performance by Easter Grand Marshal XIII Rhonda Roget. 3rd Bunnies 2012 Financial Re-

port includes: Tickets: 4,240.00 Tickets 106 @ $40 Event: 750.00 Bunny Boy Auction/ Chuck Turner ck 400.00 2 Nights @ RitzCarlton/Tim Fields ck 260.00 Super Spa Basket/ Tim Tields ck 60.00 Venetian Mask/Chris Auther ca 70.00 Mickey & Mini/Al & Dwain ca 500.00 Pink Bunny Basket/ Gene Theriot ca 120.00 2 Nights New Orleans Courtyard/Bobby & Joey Krieger ca 150.00 2 Nights French Quarter Suites/Lisa Guidos NP 142.00 Bunny Boy Dance Tips CA 120.00 Ronda Roget Tips CA 585.00 0/50 Raffle CA 3,157.00 Event Subtotal 7,397.00 Subtotal/Tickets-Event Sponsorships:

2,500.00 250.00 2,750.00

Ketel One Mona Lisa Sponsorship Subto-

tal 10,147.00 Revenue Total Expenses: 1,065.00 Bartenders/Servers/ DJ 280.00 1,345.00 8,802.00

50/50 Raffle Expenses Total Grand Total

4th Chili Cook-OFF Raises $605 for Gay Easter Parade

he 4th annual Fruit Loop Chili Cook-Off brought forth three teams at Cafe Lafitte in Exile, four teams at Good Friends, three teams at Oz. and five teams at Rawhide raising $1,010. Half of the proceeds went to the Top Chili Chef, and the other half, $505 plus a $100 donation, benefited Gay Easter Parade/Food For Friends. For $10 guests enjoyed unlimited

tasting and FREE Bud Light while it lasted. All tasters got to vote at each location for the top bar chef, then the four top bar chefs competed at Lafitte's and tasters voted on the 4th Top Chili Chef. The top four teams included Lafitte's Freut Qoz, Good Friends Titties, Oz's Team Oz, and Rawhide's Hot & Spicy. Team Titties from Good Friends won Top Chili Chef.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival April 27-29 & May 3-6

he Jazz Fest lineup is out and it’s another breakout year! Stars representing nearly every known genre of popular music will be coming out for the two-weekend, seven-day festival at the historic Fair Grounds April 27-29 and May 3-6. Highlighting this year’s festival are: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Jimmy Buffet (Acoustic) with Mac McAnally, The Eagles, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Little Anthony & The Imperials, Foo Fighters, Zac Brown Band, My Morning Jacket, Ne-Yo, Al Green, Bon Iver, Paulina Rubio, Bonnie Raitt, Bunny Wailer, The Beach Boys, Herbie Hancock, Galactic, Feist,Florence + The Machine, ...and hundreds of other performers will be onstage at the 2012 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. From country to gospel to blues to zydeco to R&B to good old rock and roll, this year’s JazzFest has something for everyone. And, of course the festival’s namesake – jazz. Repping the contemporary and old-style jazz genres are such internationally recognizable names as keyboardists Herbie Hancock and Bruce Hornsby, saxophonists Dave Koz and David Sanborn, bassist/ [continued on 8]

6 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 7

the "official" dish ... from 6 vocalist Esperanza Spalding, jazz violinist Regina Carter, vocalist Dianne Reeves, and those with local roots like clarinetist Pete Fountain, saxophonist Donald Harrison, trumpeters Kermit Ruffins, Irvin Mayfield, Jeremy Davenport, James Andrews and his younger brother Troy, better known as “Trombone Shorty.” As for the brass bands for which New Orleans is famous, there will be plenty of them too. Among them are Rebirth, Dirty Dozen, Hot 8, Original Liberty Street, the Storyville Jazz Band with George French and more. Celebrating their Golden Anniversary in 2011, the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band will be making its traditional appearance, as it has done every year since the festival’s founding in the early 1970s. And, be on the lookout for the Mardi Gras Indians! In their colorful suits and headdresses of feathers and sequins and singing their native chants, you can’t miss them. Visit NOJazzFest.COM for additional information.

29th French Quarter Fest brings in 574,000 Festival- Goers

pril 12-15 marked the 29th anniversary of French Quarter Festival presented by Capi-tal One Bank. This year’s attendance figures indicate that approximately 574,000* festival-goers enjoyed the music, food, special events and of course, the historic French Quarter. The new opening day of Festival, dubbed ‘Locals’ Lagniappe Day’, on Thursday, April 12th ran for a full day and enjoyed very strong attendance. Even Friday the 13th didn’t deter festival goers as numbers for Friday rivaled past Saturday attendance figures. The 2012 French Quarter Festival featured iPhone and Android phone apps, which were available free of charge, courtesy of Capital One Bank. The app’s developer, Philip Berman of Applitite, informed festival organizers today that the 2012 app received more downloads than any other festival app he has developed (clients include the Chicago Blues Festival, Taste of Chicago, Chicago International Film Fes-

tival, and New Orleans Voodoo Experience. Over 25,000 apps were downloaded for the 2012 festival and the Android app garnered a 4 ½ star rating and the iPhone a 4-star rating – very high by App industry standards. Applitite LLC was founded in Chicago in January 2009 by Philip Berman. Application clients include retail, manufacturing, healthcare, games, events and the entertainment industry. The award-winning festival, which began in 1984, has grown to become the largest free music festival in the South. A record 22 music stages throughout the French Quarter presented the best in New Orleans music, representing every genre from traditional and contemporary jazz to R & B and New Orleans funk, brass bands, folk, gospel, classical, cabaret, opera, Cajun Zydeco, Latin World, International, as well as a musical stage for children. Over 90 food and beverage booths located in Jackson Square, Woldenberg Riverfront Park and the Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint made up the “World’s Largest Jazz Brunch,” a signature event featuring authentic local cuisine from renowned area restaurants, many of whom have been with the Festival throughout its entire 29-year history. FQFI officials worked with Capital One Bank and Hotard to continue free shuttle service to the festival for a third year. Free to ride all weekend, Capital One sponsored the ‘Second Line Shuttle’, which was routed from the Central Business District to Canal Street. To accommodate festival goers both Saturday and Sunday, the New Orleans Police Department closed down most streets of the French Quarter to traffic – ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for locals and visitors alike. Fest goers enjoyed walking in the streets and enjoying the historic neighborhood. Very few events in the City are afforded such a traffic closure. New Orleans Police provided strong support throughout the weekend, alongside the Guardian Angels and Fess Security. French Quarter Festival relies on strong community support to present the ‘kickoff to festival season in New Orleans’ -with over 2,000 volunteers, over 260 musical acts, numerous generous sponsors -including the New Orleans Musicians Union AFM Local

174-496, corporations from all over the state who sponsor musical acts at festival, New Orleans Police and Fire Departments, EMS, permitting assistance from the City of New Orleans and partnerships with Parks and Parkways, Audubon Institute and the Louisiana State Museum, among others. Over 700 guests attended the festival’s kickoff party: ‘TGIF’ – Thank Goodness it’s Festival! – at the House of Blues. Festival goers attended a variety of free special events throughout the weekend, including the return of the fireworks (absent since 2005), a new lecture series, ‘Let them Talk: Conversations on Louisiana Music’; free dance lessons at three stages; two children’s areas with music and activities at the Audubon Aquarium riverfront plaza and the courtyard of the Hermann-Grima House Museum; a Pirate’s Alley Juried Art Show; Rouses World Championship Crawfish Eating Contest; Battle of the Bands; and Sunday’s ‘Dancing at Dusk’, which filled the 400 block of Royal Street and beyond with dancers. French Quarter Festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc., (FQFI) the 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest in August and Christmas New Orleans Style in December. For more information about any of these events, call 504.522.5730 or visit www.fqfi.org. Festival Sponsors for the 29th annual French Quarter Festival as of February 9, 2012 include: Capital One Bank (Presenting Sponsor), Abita Brewing Company, Pepsi, WWL-TV, Absolut Vodka, Malibu Rum, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Woodbridge Wines, Tropical Isle, Rouses Market, Harrah’s Foundation, French Market Corporation, Chevron, New TUMS Freshers, Louisiana Office of Tourism, The Greater

Counseling and Psychotherapy Couples, individuals, communication skills, coming out, relationship issues, grief and substance abuse. Gay therapist for Lesbian and Gay Issues.

We care. We understand.

A Co u n s e l i n g Co o p e r a t i v e

5 0 4 .8 3 6 .0 0 0 0 3001 Fifth St. Metairie, LA 70002 David Wagner, PhD, LPC, NCC, CHT New Orleans Buick/GMC Dealerships, City of New Orleans, The Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation, Rick’s 315 Bourbon, Musician’s Performance Fund, PJ’s Coffee and Tea of New Orleans, nola.com, Louisiana Lottery, House of Blues, Hotel Monteleone, United Airlines, Pat O’s on the River, Hard Rock Café, Windsor Court Hotel, BMI, Court of Two Sisters, Tulane Medical Center, Tulane Hospital for Children at Tulane Medical Center, Hermann Grima House, Applitite, Musical Legends Park, Red Bull, New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park, Rolland Lock and Safe, Pelican Ice, SDT, OffBeat Magazine, Where Y’at Magazine, New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, NOLA Jitterbugs, NOTV, NOLA Baby & Family Magazine, Preservation Hall, The Historic New Orleans Collection, St. Louis Cathedral, Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse, I.T.S. Fire Alarm Security, NewOrleans.com, Louisiana Cookin’, TRS, Kids and Family New Orleans, IntheKnowla.com, Where Magazine, Nola Baby and Family, Curve Magazine, Ambush Magazine, The Vinyl District, New Orleans Magazine, Louisiana Life Magazine, Acadian Profile, MyNewOrleans.com, St. Charles Avenue Magazine, New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles, WRNO, WWNO, 96.1 The River, 101.5 WYNK, 102.5 WFMF, 1150AM WJOB, B97, Bayou 95.7, Magic 101.9, KCIL, KXOR, and KJIN.

8 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 9

under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

Book of the Month

hat I love so much about the book of the month column is the fact that I have the best of both worlds, I can still enjoy my favorite authors, but I also get the opportunity to branch out in other genres and writers who I would not normally consider reading. That can definitely be said about my next book of the month Beauty Queens by Libba Bray. Bray is the New York Times bestselling author of the 2010 Michael L. Printz Award-winning novel Going Bovine, and the acclaimed Gemma Doyle trilogy. Beauty Queens is a tale that involves a plane crash, national beauty pageant contestants, a secret militaristic corporation, and desert island survival. Basically the plot is the Miss Teen Dream Pageant plane goes down over the ocean with only a handful of survivors. The characters are pretty much cookie cutter of every teen angst movie you have seen before. But Bray goes beyond the normal expectations to deliver a funny and entertaining read. There is a transgender youth, a deaf lesbian and a handful of other unique individuals. Picture Lost meets Mean Girls with a dash of Glee thrown in for good measure. From the hysterical footnotes and commercial breaks to the surprising twists, the book will keep you laughing. The sexy pirates and the behemoth snake with a voracious appetite just add to the fun. What I find so refreshing about Beauty Queens is it never takes itself too seriously, it is an amusing lighthearted read, but with a telling commentary on today’s society and how it views femininity. Reality television, product placement and greedy corporations, are all part of the satirical underlying theme of the novel. Definitely make it a point to check out Libba Bray, you will not be let down. You can find out more about Bray at www.libbabray.com.

Movie Review: Life Happens

kay, so I really am not that big into chick flicks, but I truly enjoyed Life Happens. Director Kat Coiro brings us Life Happens, a comedy centered on three young women - Kim (Krysten Ritter), Deena (Kate Bosworth) and Laura (Rachel Bilson) - who all live under the same roof in Los Angeles. When one of Kim’s one-night-stands results in an unexpected pregnancy, things take a sudden turn for the trio. With the help of

with some of the best one liners such as: “Marriage is like the Middle East, isn’t it? There’s no solution.” – Shirley Valentine. The Contemporary Arts Center is located at 900 Camp Street in the Warehouse District. Tickets are $25, for more information or to buy tickets call 504.415.6476.

The Return of Cathy Fox

her girlfriends, Kim must cope with single motherhood as she jumps back into the dating scene amid the fear that toting around a tot can be a dating ‘buzz-kill.’ The movie also features Jason Biggs, Seymour Cassel, Rhys Coiro, Justin Kirk, Kristen Johnston, Andrea Savage, Geoff Stults and Fallon Goodson. Life Happens takes a look at single living, friendship and the joys of life’s curveballs. There is nothing earth-shattering about this movie, but somehow it touched me and I actually can relate to what happens to some of the characters. It is definitely a female buddy flick but it goes beyond that by showing the trials and tribulations of people’s friendships as our lives take different turns. Ritter is absolutely perfect for this role since she was one of the catalysts for this movie along with first time director Kat Coiro. Bosworth plays the love them and leave them best friend while Bilson fills in nicely as the virgin third person. As always the wonderfully wicked Kristen Johnson steals any scene she is in as Francesca the boozy, baby hating, tyrannical boss. I would highly recommend checking out Life Happens, a definite medium to large box of popcorn movie.

Satyricon Presents Shirley Valentine

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is coming out gangbusters once again with a new show that will sure be a sell-out as the previous two plays, A Streetcar Named Desire and The Divine Sister. On Wednesday, May 9, Satyricon will present the opening night of Shirley Valentine, a “one-woman” show starring the incomparable Ricky Graham at the Contemporary Arts Center. Southern Rep’s Production of Shirley Valentine by Willy Russell is directed by Marieke Gaboury. The premise of the show is simple. Shirley’s a middle-aged Liverpool housewife, who finds herself talking to the wall while she prepares her husband’s chip’n’egg, wondering what happened to her life. But when her best friend wins an all-expenses-paid vacation to Greece for two, Shirley begins to see the world, and herself, in a different light. The show is a hysterical romp

or all of those fans out there who have been wondering where Cathy Fox has been hiding lately, well I have your answer. She is back from her sabbatical at the Betty Ford Clinic, followed by her whirlwind around the world tour and brief prison stint in Laos on trumped up charges for trying to smuggle an underage boy in her luggage through customs. But thank god she convinced the authorities she was bringing him back as a souvenir for her aging aunt who needed a houseboy. Back in the saddle again, Cathy brings us her new show Trois Femmes on Friday, April 27 at 10pm at JohnPaul’s. This star studded entertainment extravaganza will include Miss Fox, Summer Rayne, Monica SynclaireKennedy, Josie Mae Cotton, Reinita Newman and special guest star, Amanda Shaw. All proceeds from Amanda’s performance that night will go to NOLA Pride. I for one will be in the front row applauding Miss Fox’s triumphant return to the stage where she so belongs.

Are You Proud!

OLA Pride is back and this year, there will be more events, excitement and many more reasons to be proud. Recently I was honored to be named along with Matthew Birkhoff as NOLA Pride's Co-Pride Grand Marshal. I have to admit, I was actually stunned to receive this prestigious title and I look forward to celebrating our community with everyone with all the fundraisers and events we are planning. So let’s begin with an exciting one right off the bat on Friday, May 4th at Club LAX in Metairie. Johnny Fradella will be hosting the fundraiser along with Club LAX. The line-up includes singers, dancers, and performers. The cast includes Miss NOLA Pride 2011 Monica Synclaire-Kennedy, Mr. NOLA Pride 2011 Adonis De’ Orleans, Voice of Pride Winner 2011 Derrick Stevens, Monique Michaels, ZsaZsa d'LaHor, Cathy Fox, Wendy G. Kennedy, andmany more. There will be a $5 cover at the door and the show starts promptly at 9pm. The following night, Misti Ates will host her popular La Familia show which will act as a fundraiser for NOLA Pride. Cover is $7, doors open at 9pm and show starts at 10:30pm. If you have never seen a La Familia, you are in for a treat. It includes drag queens, drag

kings, singers and a host of other talented guests that have ranged in the past from burlesque dancers to fire performers. So try to make it out to these special events and let’s give the city the best pride event yet.

The Joffrey Ballet Returns to New Orleans

he New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA) presents The Joffrey Ballet on Saturday, May 12th at 8pm at the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts located at 801 N. Rampart Street. This year’s season closes with the return of The Joffrey Ballet, which donated their services in 2006 so NOBA could bring a main stage season of dance back to New Orleans. For more than a half-century, The Joffrey Ballet has been an American ballet treasure. Last seen in New Orleans at Dixon Hall, this sensational company returns in grand style with 35 stunning dancers. The elegant program highlights the bold and refreshing talents of rising choreographic star Edwaard Liang with Age of Innocence, an emotionallycharged new work inspired by the social complexities of life in the era of Jane Austen. Also on the program is Jerome Robbin’s enchanting romantic masterwork In the Night, a passionate ballet featuring a series of three pas de deux set to the live accompaniment of Chopin Nocturnes. Closing the evening is Incantation, a new work premiering this spring by Val Caniparoli, whose “uncommon ability and rare dramatic vision” (Dance Magazine) make him one of the most sought after American choreographers in the United States and abroad. Single tickets are currently on sale for $20-$80. Students with a valid ID and seniors (65 or older) receive $7 off ticket price. Group discounts are available. Tickets may be purchased by calling the NOBA Box Office at 504.522.0996 or online at www.nobadance.com.

PFLAG Hosts Its Annual Scholarship Reception

he 21st PFLAG New Orleans Sandra Pailet Memorial Scholarship Champagne Reception will be held on Sunday, May 13th at 6pm at the Homer Hitt Alumni Center located in the UNO Lakefront Campus. There will be a silent auction, food donated by Whole Foods Market, libations donated by Wood Enterprises and entertainment by The New Orleans Gay Men’s Chorus. I thought everyone should know a little history about the scholarship program. The PFLAG New Orleans Scholarship Program began in 1989 when a [continued on 12]

10 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 11

under the gaydar ...from 10 local gay businessman approached the leaders of PFLAG New Orleans and suggested that a scholarship should be started for local gay and lesbian students. He donated $1,000 to initiate the program and his business facility to host the first champagne reception. Since then, the PFLAG New Orleans Scholarship Program has given over $500,000 to more than 450 gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered students from Louisiana. The PFLAG New Orleans Scholarship Program has grown to become one of the nation’s largest scholarship funds for gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered (GLBT) students and a model for similar programs across the country. The purpose of the PFLAG New Orleans Scholarship Program is to recognize outstanding GLBT students from Louisiana; encourage continuing education for self-identified GLBT students; and foster a positive image of GLBT individuals in society. The PFLAG New Orleans Scholarship Program offers scholarships of between $1,000 and $10,000 (larger scholarships are payable over a period of four years) to eligible college students. The program is supported by the generous contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations, and organizations. For more information, go to www.pflagno.org.

Party Down

have to admit that Holy Week kicked my ass this year. I do not think I have been through so much in such a short period of time. But I discover in life as you get older, you have to roll with the seasons and enjoy it all while you can. So my party week started on Thursday, when some of my best friends Laura Tennyson and Gary Zachariah got married. Her family had flown in from Boston and she wanted to celebrate with them. So a handful of friends met them down at City Hall for their big day. I was actually shocked at how nice everything was. Usually taking a trip to City Hall is a nightmare, so it was inspirational to be there for a good reason. I was best man for Gary and the ceremony was just lovely. Laura looked so stunning n her vintage wedding dress and Gary was terribly dapper. This was just what the doctor ordered because I was freshly coming off being burned by someone who I had feelings for; and watching a truly happy couple gave me renewed hope that it is possible to find that someone special. After the ceremony, we went and took pictures at the river with her family, then we had a quick lunch at El Gato Negro before I returned back to work. Later that night, I picked up my friend Nick and we went to their reception dinner thrown at the house of Terrence and Robin Blanchard. Now this was a

Gary Zachariah’s & Laura Tennyson Wedding Party true dinner party. A table of thirty was set up in their beautiful backyard, with overhanging Chinese lanterns and fresh florals. The guests had specialty pre-dinner cocktails named after the couple. What was so wonderful about this evening was Laura and Gary has such a full life that their friends list was extremely eclectic, from recording stars to a relative of a past vice president. Everything this evening was perfect from the three course meal, to the antique place settings. Robin Blanchard was the flawless hostess for this joyous evening. No detail was left untouched, our wine glasses never emptied and the food which was catered by Fat Hen was delicious. Careful thought also went into the seating chart for the night which at one large long table can be difficult, but Robin was a master placing people near others that they would click with but being within talking range of people they would know. I think doing that helps people break out of their comfort zone and speak to someone they might not generally talk with. The wedding cake was surrounded by an abundance of cupcakes made in the same flavor. Both Nick and I had an amazing evening with friends, both old and new alike. Now this is what I call a successful party when you come back with memories that will last a long time. Friday was my busy day. My friend Michelle flew in from Washington DC to stay with me for the long weekend. Once she was setteled, it was off to prepare for a night of revelry. I alongside with Rona Conners throw the Bunnies in The Big Easy fundraiser for the Gay Easter Parade. This year it was at the Ritz-Carlton in the Crescent View Ballroom overlooking the city. We had hot bunny boys, which special thanks should go out to Adrian, Jamie, Ryan, Anthony and Dwayne. We had a sold out evening filled with great music, wonderful food, a great auction and just a little naughtiness. The RitzCarlton did a impressive job bringing a new level to the festivities of the Gay Easter Parade, We raised over ten thousand dollars helping bring the total raised for Food for Friends to over thirty six grand. Congratulations to Rhonda and Darwin for a wonderful reign as Easter Grand Marshals XIII this year. After the party, the celebration continued downstairs at the French Quarter Bar when a large contingent

from the party enjoyed the music of famous crooner Jeremy Davenport. I do think it was the first time the hotel experienced same sex dancing that night. Oh and by the way, I foresee Rhonda Roget being asked to be one of the guests in Dancing with the Stars. Let’s just hope her shoes hold up better. Saturday was another full day starting with the Bunny Hop Bonnet Contest Bar Crawl through the Marigny. This year’s Bunny Marshals were Marty Curtain and Jeff Mallon, as they led the 10th annual walk through the streets of the Faubourg Marigny to eight watering holes. It was a fantastic day with great weather, lots of festive bonnets and good times. After that Michelle and I ran back to my house and did a quick change for the Pride Grand Marshal Announcement Party that evening at the Hotel Monteleone. I was honored to be one of 14 people in the nominations. So a large group of my friends joined me at the hotel, slightly drunk but in high spirits. Pride did an exemplary job giving guests a noteworthy night of delectable cuisine, and remarkable entertainment spotlighted by the extremely talented Amanda Shaw. And the night turned out to be more memorable than I had expected since I along with Matthew Birkhoff was named Pride Grand Marshals 2012. I personally would like to thank the board for voting for me, as well as all my friends who were there to support me. This was one of those nights that will remain in my memory for the rest of my life. Easter came upon me like a jack rabbit, okay sorry about the awful pun. But the day started out hectic as I got ready for my Easter brunch pre-parade party at my house, with my own special bunny boy. Had lots of fabulous guests over for libations and nibbles before the Easter Parade. Then we all managed to get ourselves down to the parade lineup by Michael’s On the Park for the pre-party and buffet. I have to say; my trolley had some rocking people on it, including our own bunny boy bartender, which I highly recommend having someone constantly filling your drinks during the parade. The parade itself was a whirlwind of merriment and before we knew it, we were at the 700 Club for the finale celebration. They put out a lovely spread and we all had a great time reminiscing on the day’s exploits. But alas, my day was not over, because I managed to make it to Oz for Dingo and the Calendar Boy Contest; then ended my night at JohnPaul’s for their impromptu drag show. What a tremendous way to end Holy Week. I rested the beginning of the next week, but that reprieve did not last for long, since on Wednesday I was out at the French Quarter Festival opening party at the House of Blues. I have always enjoyed this party as a good way to jump start the weekend. The

next day, I went to a different part of the greater metro area. I traveled to Mandeville for the opening of the newest Pinkberry store. My company helped with the event, so my friend Beaux and I braved the Causeway to make it out there, and I have to admit, we had a great time. The music was alive, the champagne was flowing and you were able to try all the styles of their incredible yogurt. Oh and by the way, the Northshore has an abundance of hotties. On Friday, I had quite the evening. My Co-Pride Grand Marshal Matthew asked me to judge the Strip Off contest at the Pub, and I had a blast. If you have never been to this before, you are in for a treat. This is so much fun, the drag queens were fabulous, Jasmine Essex rocks and Matthew is quite the host. Also, I got to judge some pretty hot men. After the contest, I tooled around the Quarter stopping at Oz, Napoleon’s Itch and Lafitte’s before taking myself home at stupid o’clock in the morning. The next day, I actually went to French Quarter Festival with a handful of my friends, and we were lucky enough to get into the VIP area upstairs at Pat O’ Brien’s on the River. The festival is great, but it is so much better to be above the crowd with an open bar, food and no lines for the bathroom. After the festival, Nick, Beaux and I were invited to this guy John Michael’s Titanic party in the Bywater. It was a costume event, so I donned my Mardi Gras Captain’s outfit which fit perfectly with the theme. I love interactive parties like this and the host put a lot of thought into it. Guests were asked to draw a boarding pass when they walked in to tell whether they were first class or third class. It was a superb night and I got to meet some really interesting new people. On Sunday,, I attended the first Halloween Host party at the home of Bill Trapp and Rob Sanderford in the French Quarter. I know that Easter just ended but why wait, let’s start planning all the festivities for the next holiday. As always, this party is filled with gorgeous men, lots of vodka and great food. And, I am so excited about this year’s theme, Monster Brawl. I foresee lots of wrestlers in my future. So ultimately, people in this city need to realize, we have no down time between parties, so go get that party dressed dry cleaned, because we are in a wild ride.

Tony’s Tidbits of Wisdom

ecently I saw something on Facebook that I thought was cute. So I shared it with my friends’ list and who would have thought I would receive the firestorm of comments on something [continued on 14]

12 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 13

pride: beyond the rainbow

chop chop

Who will be Crowned Mr. and Miss. Pride 2012? .......Find out May 20th by: NOLA Pride e want to congratulate our elected Pride Grand Marshals of 2012, Tony Leggio and Matthew Birkhoff. We are excited to have them on board with us and can’t wait to see what they have in store for us. We also want to congratulate our Honorary Grand Marshal, Tpot from B97. Join us at JohnPaul’s Bar (940 Elysian Fields Ave) for our Mr. and

under the gaydar ...from 12 that seemed so trivial to me. The statement was “Sometimes giving people a second chance is like giving them an extra bullet for their gun because they missed you the first time. People thought that this was too harsh and that everyone deserves a second chance. Well, let’s begin by saying it was a harmless quote, get over it. The fact that you got so upset over this just proves that you are guilty of something and probably rightfully so. But then I pondered these words more, especially since recently someone who I was beginning to become good friends with did something hurtful to me. It has always been my mantra to cut and run when someone does something purposefully mean to me. But I was starting to like this guy, and enjoyed his company tremendously. So I dallied with the idea of giving him a second chance; reaching out with the so called olive branch to try and mend fences. But then I thought what if he hurts me again, what do I do then, the first time was bad enough, the second would be even more devastating. Life is all about choices and every action has a consequence. Hurting people is not acceptable behavior, and whether or not you meant it knowingly, you need to make right by the person if they mean anything to you. Even if you think you did nothing wrong, your actions still upset another person and when you realize this, you should do something to rectify the situation. Basically, the moral of this column is yes, of course, everyone deserves a second chance, but next time you give that person who slighted you their extra bullet, make sure you put on a kefler vest. Just in case they take aim again, you (and your heart) will be prepared. Who knows, they may just turn out to be human like the rest of us and hopefully if your friendship or relationship is meant to be then everything will work out. If you have an event, story or idea, you want covered, contact me at tonymgp@hotmail.com.

Miss Pride Pageant on May 20th at 5pm. A $5 donation at the door gets you in. The winner will receive a cash prize of $100, and a crown! Come see performances by the current reigning Miss Pride Monica Synclaire-Kennedy, and Mr. Pride Adonis De’Orleans. All contestants need to arrive by 3:45pm. During the Mr. and Miss Pride Pageant, come see who will be The Guys of Pride. There is only one category in this contest, and it’s PRIDE! Come show off your Pride for a chance to win some great prizes including $50 cash and a spot in the Pride Parade. All sizes and ages are encouraged to enter. Costumes, swimwear and underwear are allowed. There is NO ENTRY FEE but contestants must sign up in advance You can find the rules and entry form at www.prideneworleans.org. On Friday April 27th, 10pm at JohnPaul’s Bar Cathy Fox’s new show, Trois Femmes will welcome special guest star, Amanda Shaw. The proceeds from all numbers performed by Amanda Shaw will go to support Pride, so come out and support the community. The show will also feature Cathy Fox, Summer Rayne, Monica Synclaire-Kennedy, Josie Mae Cotton, and Reinita Newman.

email/letters On behalf of the board and staff of NO/AIDS Task Force and the men, women and families affected by HIV/ AIDS that we serve, I’d like thank everyone who helped make the 13th annual Gay Easter Parade a success. This year, you helped raise over $36,000 for our Food For Friends program, which provides pantry services and home delivered meals to men and women living and coping with HIV disease. With the funds raised this year, 100 additional individuals can now access food pantry services! I’d like to especially thank Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, without whom, the Gay Easter Parade would not be possible. I would also like to extend my gratitude to this year’s Grand Marshals Darwin Reed and Rhonda Roget who worked tirelessly to make this year’s Gay Easter Parade the most successful yet. Additionally, thank you to the Board of Directors of the Gay Easter Parade: Electra City, Rona Conners, Tony Leggio, Opal Masters and Tittie Toulouse, for all of their hard work and fundraising efforts. Finally, to everyone who donated their time or money to The Gay Easter Parade or any of the

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

Our Kitchen & Culture, LLC, Publishes Premiere Issue of Louisiana Kitchen

he Premiere issue of Louisiana Kitchen magazine began arriving in subscribers’ mailboxes throughout the United States and abroad last week. Beginning this week it will also be available throughout Louisiana and into Mississippi in all Rouses’ stores, in convention and visitors’ bureaus, welcome centers, and select hotels and inns. It is the first publication to be released by Our Kitchen & Culture, LLC, a collaborative partnership between Susan Ford, who serves as President and Publisher, and Jyl Benson, who serves as Editorial Director and Executive Vice President. Louisiana Kitchen is an intelligent, informed guide into Louisiana’s unique culinary culture and heritage, and the many nationalities, ethnicities, and traditions that came together over centuries to shape what it is today. It also provides unique insight into the region’s ongoing culinary and cultural evolution. The only national publication of its kind, Louisiana Kitchen provides an insider’s guide to the authentic experiences today’s cultural and culinary travelers seek including dining, festivals, music, ethnic, and intellectual attractions. Rich with recipes, generous commentary, and suggestions from Louisiana’s home cooks, culinary schools, restaurateurs, professional chefs, and travel and hospitality professionals, Louisiana Kitchen strives to immerse readers in the diverse characteristics of the state’s culture. “We have amassed an incredible creative team that delivered an exciting, beautifully designed product with loads of lush photography,” Ford said. “We have released the magazine in print. Later this year we will also offer a version on iPad and Android tablet. I am thrilled to say that demand for Louisiana Kitchen has been robust: We already have subscribers in all states but Vermont, Idaho, and Wyoming; 42% of our Charter Subscribers are Louisiana residents, 14% are Texans, and the numbers disperse from there. Internationally, we have subscribers in Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, and Australia.” Louisiana Kitchen will publish four times this year (May/June, July/August, September/October, and November/December) and seven times annually beginning in 2012.

Reginelli’s Pizzeria Expansion Partnership Announced

wo homegrown, but nationally recognized, businesses come together to grow. In 2007, Pizza Today named Reginelli’s Pizzeria the Independent Pizzeria of the Year (out of over 44,000 in the entire United States). In 1997, the James Beard Awards (the Oscars of the restaurant industry) named Commander’s Palace the most Outstanding Restaurant in all of America. Today, principals from the two businesses announce their partnership to expand Reginelli’s Pizzeria beyond New Orleans. “For me it’s all about a serious passion for the food and the hospitality which comes from a culture of excellence. Reginelli’s has that in spades. Darryl is the Godfather of pizza in New Orleans – his standards are unwavering,” says Commander’s Palace co-proprietor Ti Adelaide Martin. Darryl Reginelli and Bruce Erhardt opened their first Reginelli’s Pizzeria in New Orleans in 1996 on the corner of Magazine and State Street. Its quality food, upbeat atmosphere and cool modern décor have made Reginelli’s Pizzeria a beloved local institution ever since. The company has picked up annual Pizza Today Hot 100 Independent Awards and multiple awards voted on by readers of publications including the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Gambit Weekly, and Where Y’at Magazine. Their brand recently expanded to nine stores with the opening of the newest Reginelli’s Pizzeria at 684 Jefferson Hwy in Baton Rouge with their new partners. Darryl and Bruce have been committed to finding the right group to partner with as they look to expand beyond the New Orleans area. “Bruce and I are very proud of our Reginelli’s team. We have a serious dedication to fresh ingredients and to running restaurants that are professional but maintain warmth and a flair for fun. We think it is a perfect match with Ti’s group’s long heralded focus on quality and hospitality,” says founder Darryl Reginelli. fundraising events, I would like to offer “My partners (Alex Brennan-Martin, Brad my sincere gratitude. To see the out- Brennan, Arlene Nesser, and Joe Henican) pouring of support from our community and I have admired the Reginelli’s restaurants every year bolsters us in the ongoing from afar for a long time. Looking closer, our respect has only grown. While our experiences battle against HIV and AIDS may come from different ends of the dining Over the past eleven years, The spectrum, the company cultures – striving to Gay Easter Parade, due to the efforts be the very best in your category by developing of thousands in our community, has strong leadership teams – are cut from the helped raise over $147,000! Thank same cloth. We see great potential for strong you all so much for your hard work and measured growth beyond New Orleans together,” says Ti Adelaide Martin. for continuing to support NO/AIDS Task “This coming together of two solid New Force and Food For Friends. Orleans companies is just another sign of the Sincerely, strength of the New Orleans food and entre--Noel Twilbeck, CEO, NO/AIDS preneurial communities,” says Reginelli’s Pizzeria owner Bruce Erhardt. Task Force

14 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 15

celebrazzi

aster Grand Marshals XIII Darwin Reed and Rhonda Roget led the 13th annual Gay Easter Parade through the streets of the French Quarter Easter Sunday. The parade minus expenses raised a whopping $36,252 for Food For Friends this year. Over $147,439 has been raised the past 11 years for charity. The Pre-Parade Party hosted by Michael's On The Park was delightful as parade participants and guests mingled and sampled an Easter feast before boarding for the parade. The Post-Parade Party followed with another lavish Easter buffet at 700 Club where participants and guests mingled late into the night.

he 10th Marigny Bunny Hop and Easter Bonnet Contest led by Bunny Marshals X Jeff Mallon and Marty Curtin traveled from The Friendly Bar to Big Daddy's, Mimi's, Cutter's, Who Dat Cafe, Kajun's Pub, Phoenix, ending at JohnPaul's. Bonnet winners were announced at each location. Kristi and Karen receive Ambush Mag's Best of the Best bonnet trophy from BMs Jeff and Marty.

ay Easter Parade Board's Rona Conners and Tony Leggio flank Bunny Boys' Dwayne and Anthony at the 3rd Bunnies In The Big Easy at the Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans. The annual event brought in $10,147, the largest single event total in the history of the parade. Benefiting Food For Friends, Easter Grand Marshal XIII Rhonda Roget (below) does an incredible finale for the bash with the help of Bunny Boys' Ryan, Adrian, Jamie, Dwayne and Anthony.

utgoing Pride Grand Marshals Misti Ates and Chris Leonard present the 33rd Pride Grand Marshals Tony Leggio and Matthew Birkhoff (center) at the NOLA Pride Grand Marshal Announcement Party at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans. NOLA Pride is the only Official Pride of New Orleans recognized by leading organizations, businesses and community leaders in the city. For more information visit PrideNewOrleans.ORG.

16 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 17

18 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

3rd Bunnies in The Big Easy raises $10,147 for Gay Easter Parade/Food For Friends @ Ritz-Carlton ~ New Orleans

big easy

papar azzi

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 19

20 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 21

GEP Boards Tony Leggio/Mardi Gras Productions Deja Deja-Vue’ & James May

Bebe Scarpinato

David Forth & Easter Grand Marshal XIII Rhonda Roget JohnPaul’s Raven Kennedy

Bob Boler & GEP Boards Rona Conners

John Zeringue & Robert Cook

Krewe of Petronius

The Corner Pocket King Armeinius 35 & Queen Armeinius 44

GEP Boards Rip & Marsha

Amon-Ra Bunny Reject Frankie Wingerter

Orlando’s Society Page

Oz New Orleans

GEP Boards Electra City & Tittie Toulouse

Stuart Nettles & Safonda Peters

Kajun’s Pub

Fredrick Guess Studio

22 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

13th Gay Easter Parade led by Easter Grand Marshals XIII Darwin Reed & Rhonda Roget ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin, Kyler Landry, KimWelsh

Opal Masters & Easter Grand Marshal XIII Darwin Reed

13th Gay Easter Parade led by Easter Grand Marshals XIII Darwin Reed & Rhonda Roget raises $36,252 for Food For Friends

NO/AIDS Task Force

Lords of Leather Friends Helping Friends Food For Friends

New Orleans Bear & Bear Trapper Social Club Southeast Louisiana AIDS Awareness

Pair-A Dice Tumblers

Rickie White

700 Club

Remembering Dr. Trey Mangum

The Double Play

Cougar Cabaret

Miss Gay Pride Monica Sinclaire-Kennedy

Michael’s On The Park

Clove Productions

Georgeanna Belle

Queen POS

Krewe of Armeinius

Maison Macarty

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 23

pensacola papar azzi

Hanging out @ Emerald City Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party

That’s the reason he won the MALE Strip-off!

Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party Emerald City’s White Party I wanna be a COWGIRL! Bachlorettes @ Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party

Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party

Miss Valerie Heart always with the boys Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party

Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party

Emerald City’s White Party

Jay & Dwayne @ Emerald City’s White Party Emerald City’s White Party

Now that's a body to smile for

A Family Affair @ Emerald City

Kevin & Fernado hanging out @ Emerald City

Ben always happy to serve ANYONE he can

Emerald City’s White Party

24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Blackout Underwear, Male Strip-off, White Party ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell

Emerald City’s very own Jeffrey ready to serve

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 25

CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

600

RAMPART

500 TOULOUSE

BURGUNDY

400 ST. LOUIS

DAUPHINE

ROYAL

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900 ST. PHILIP

1000 URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300

classifieds

ESPLANADE

1800 19 FR

M A R IG N Y

23 ES TR R A H C

FR 2 A 500 N K L L 26 00 IN YA O R E LO IN U PH IS U A A D

EN 2 0 0 0 C EL H YS 210 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S

Slidell, LA [985] OLDE SLIDELL ANTIQUE DISTRICT, First & Erlanger Streets, antique malls, gift shops, doll shop & restaurants, 643.4790, SlidellAntiques.COM

autos Metairie, LA [504] WALKER ACURA, 8951 Veterans Blvd., 464.4004, WalkerAcura.COM

bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWN PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Rd., 242.9491, SplashBR.COM

book stores New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700

cable shows New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 99

casinos RT PA M A R

Lake Charles, LA [337] L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort, 777 Avenue L’Auberge, 337.395.7777 or 866.580.7444, ldlcasino.com New Orleans, LA [504] Harrah's New Orleans Casino, Canal @ the River, 800.,HARRAHS, GayHarrahsNOLA.COM

chiropractic

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

antiques

566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735 LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 MICHAEL'S ON THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450 NINTH CIRCLE, 700 N. Rampart, 252.4558 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156. TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, TubbysBar.COM VOODOO BAR, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0950 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Bay St. Louis, MS [228] CLUB RED, 317 Reese St.,, 467.5920, ClubRedBSL.COM Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271

Houma LA [985] THE DRAMA CLUB, 126 N. Hollywood, 580.2582 Lafayette, LA [337] JULES DOWNTOWN, 533 Jefferson, 264.8000 TONIC, 2013 Pinhook Rd., 269.6011 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457 Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, 4seasonsno.com CLUB LAX, 2301 N. Causeway, 834.7979 New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 BOURBON PUB & PARADE, 801 Bourbon St., 529.2107, BourbonPub.COM BYWATER PATIO BAR, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829 COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200, CuttersBar.BIZ THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St,

Chalmette, LA [504] SIMPLY PRECISE CHIROPRACTIC, Dr. Domingo De Los Reyes D.C., 9135 West Judge Perez, Suite B, 504.302.1718, SimplyPreciseChiropractic.COM [is213] New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is712]

circuit/events May 24 - 27, Memorial Day Weekend, International Gay Lesbian Country Western Dance Club Convention, Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel, New Orleans, LA benefiting NO/AIDS Task Force Food for Friends, NewOrleansHoedown.COM May 25-28 Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM Aug. 29-Sept. 3, 41st Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 125,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 25-28, Halloween 29, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 28, 2012-Jan. 1, 2013, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 8-12, 2013, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM

Easter Sunday, March 31, 2013, 14th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM

counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, PhD, LPC, Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000

employment New Orleans, LA [504] HELP WANTED - Cashier/backup needed at Club New Orleans. Drug test required. Submit application at 515 Toulouse St.

florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381

framing New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAMES, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726

galleries New Orleans, LA [504] BLISS McCALL STUDIO, by appointment, 631 Elysian Fields Ave., 391.9131, BlissMcCall.COM DIETY ARTS OF THE EXTREME ORIENT, 830 N. Rampart, DietyNOLA.COM TANNER ORIGINAL ART, 830 Royal St., 524.8266, HauntingArt.COM

guides America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, ambushmag.com; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com

groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] FRADY'S ONE STOP GROCERY & DELICATESSEN, 3231 Dauphine St., 949.9688 QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

hair salons Mandeville, LA [985] RESTORATION HAIR DESIGN, 1800 W. Causeway Approach, Suite 119, 626.4353 New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Rue Dauphine, 522.2666 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782

hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S ACE HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465

insurance New Orleans, LA [504] ALLSTATE: Buckwalter Insurance Group LLC, 2002 20th St., Kenner, 504.469.4800;101 Schexnayder Ln., Destrehan, 985.764.3833

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

lodging/accommodations

504.458.5996 / website righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is2612]

New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, E-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queensize beds, private entrances; located only six blocks from Bourbon Street and walking distance to most New Orleans attractions. Several favorite bars are within one block. [0712] BURGUNDY BED AND BREAKFAST, 2513 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE/FAX: 504.942.1463, Toll Free (Continental US only): 1.800.970.2153, theburgundy.com, E-mail us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double. Four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "half-kitchen", courtyard and half-open tubhouse with spa (hot tub/whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. [0812 FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253,FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com. Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. One of several French Quarter residences that have been painstakingly restored and transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites. Beautiful and spacious townhomes available to accommodate groups of any size adjacent to the hotel. Just 3 short blocks from Bourbon St, with free Wi-Fi and complimentary continental breakfast and access to two beautiful pools. Covered off street parking available. MAISON DE MACARTY BED & BREAKFAST, 3820 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.267.1564, MaisonMacarty.COM, E-mail us at kurt@maisonmacarty.com. Luxury gay owned and operated bed and breakfast. 8 bedrooms with ensuite baths, pool, sun deck and beautiful courtyard. Sleep, eat and play at Maison de Macarty. Book it now! MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. [0113] NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.522.7333, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com, “Spectacular, very unusual piece of property” with balconies of varying design ringing the courtyard. Circa 1880 Historic New Orleans Home lovingly restored and converted into beautifully appointed rooms. Just steps away from Armstrong park, Bourbon St, and most of the popular gay clubs, bars, and restaurants. With two pools, free WiFi and complimentary continental breakfast. Secured off street parking available. BON MAISON GUEST HOUSE, 835 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.561.8498 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.524.3621

media

marketing & printing New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812, 586.9817, offering printing and marketing services including web design and hosting. info@sirspeedyneworleans.com, sirspeedyneworleans.com

massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage; heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & thai massage/bodywork). Call

New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square,

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 27

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday 12:15pm Solumn Mass, 5pm Praise & Worship, at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, w w w . b i g e a s y m c c . c o m ,

pastor@bigeasymcc.com BIG EASY STOMPERS, 1317 Pasadena Ave., Metairie, LA 70001 www.NewOrleansHoedown.com BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, Email: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 701566836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, info@kreweofarmeinius.org, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF AMON RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, 1001 South Broad St., Suite 115, New Orleans, LA 70125, KreweOfPetronius.ORG KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. Email: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LESBIAN & GAY COMMUNITY CENTER OF NEW ORLEANS, 2114 Decatur St., 701162013; 945.1103, Fax 945.1102, Email: info@lgccno.net LORDS OF LEATHER, P.O. Box 770435, New Orleans, LA 70117-4035, LordsOfLeather.COM LOUISIANA STATE GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (LSGRA), 915.3339, lance@lsgra.com, LSGRA.COM MCLNO HOP Clinic, 136 S. Roman Street, 4th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112; Appts.: 504.903.6959, www.hopclinic.org MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, 2443 Halsey Ave., New Orleans, LA 70114, 504.906.7990 Todd J. Blauvelt / Secretary,

krewe.of.satyricon@gmail.com, MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 322.7007, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM N'R Peace, 3201 Gen. DeGaulle Dr., Suite 201, 70114, 364.1950 OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM PEOPLE OF SUBSTANCE, INC. (POS), 7210 Arbor Dr., 70126, 244.1920, posnola.com PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PRIDE NEW ORLEANS CELEBRATION NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 SOFTBALL LEAGUE – Great fun for all skill levels, beginner to advanced. Visit nolasoftball.com for full details and find us on Facebook. ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org THE COMMUNITY COALITION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS LGBTQ Organizations & Businesses, tccgno.org, 569.9156 Until It Is OVER, Inc., Executive Director Don S. Evans, Sr., 5837 De Bore Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70126, Phone 504 722 1694, Fax 504 286 5784 VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com WILLIAM J. FANNING FOUNDATION [Buzzy’s Boys & Girls], 2301 Chartres, 70117; 943.8929 Shreveport, LA [318] PHILADELPHIA CENTER, PO Box 44454, 71134-4454; 222.6633 YWCA AIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717

pets New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455

pharmacy New Orleans, LA [504] & Baton Rouge, LA [225] AVITA DRUGS SPECIALIZED PHARMACY, free discrete delivery serving Louisiana, Mississippi & Texas. Certified pharmacists caring for HIV/AIDS, new-to-market & hard-to-find medications including Serostim. Local pharmacy that supports the LGBT community. www.AvitaDrugs.COM. MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312

photography New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com

plumbers New Orleans, LA [504] PIPES "R" US PLUMBING, “Let us PEEP in your pipes”, 140 N. Carrollton Ave., Office 504.866.2730, Fax 504.484.0907,

PipesRUsNewOrleans.COM

real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] LATTER & BLUM, Agent Steve Richards, 712 Rue D’Orleans @ Rue Royal, Cell: 258.1800, Office: 948.3011, SRichards@LatterBlum.com LATTER & BLUM, Agent Brian M. Pawlowski, brianrealtor@aol.com, Agent Stace McDonald, stacerealtor@aol.com, 840 Elysian Fields, 451.2495

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 The Decadence Shoppe (coffehouse & cafe), 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, 504.371.5074 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Organic Banana, 1100 N. Peters, Bay 27, 587.7903 Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 RAZZLE DAZZLE, 524 Royal St. 568.0001, RazzleDazzle.COM RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip, 561.8167

spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com

tattoos New Orleans, LA [504] AART ACCENT NEW ORLEANS, 1041 N. Rampart St., 581.9812

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM JOY THEATER, 1200 Canal St., TheJoyTheater.COM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052

travel New Orleans, LA [504] Adventures Actually, Kate Alexander, 220.5503, AdventuresActually.COM

websites OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, GayNewOrleans.COM

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29

30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Lafitte’s, Golden Lantern, Oz, Halloween, Bourbon Pub, JohnPaul’s - New Orleans ~ Photos by Kyler Landry, Tony Leggio

ambush

papar azzi

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31

Lafitte’s Team 2

Rawhide’s Team 1

Good Friends Top Team Titties

Good Friends’ Team 1

Lafitte’s Team 3

Rawhide’s Team 2

Lafitte’s Top Team Freut Qoz

Good Friends’ Team 2

Oz’s Top Team Oz

Oz’s Team 1 Rawhide’s Team 3 Good Friends’ Team 3

Rawhide’s Top Team Hot & Spicy

Oz’s Team 2 Good Friends’ Team 4

Lafitte’s Team 1

Rawhide’s Team 4

Oz’s Team 3

Rawhide’s Team 5

EGM Darwin, Rawhide’s Joe & Top Chili Chef Good Friends’ Titties

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

4th Fruit Loop Chili Cook-OFF raises $605 for Gay Easter Parade/Food For Friends @ Good Friends, Lafitte’s, Oz & Rawhide - New Orleans

ambush

papar azzi

1 0 2 1 W. J u d g e P erez Pe

Ch a l m e t t e , L A 7 0 0 4 3 • Free Prescription Delivery • Direct Billing to Medicaid/Medicare • Private Insurance & Third-Party Payers • Billing Assistance • Competitive Pricing • Confidential, Personal, Professional Service

5 0 4 .2 7 9 .6 3 1 2 24 Hour Beeper : 5 0 4 .2 5 9 .8 0 6 1

A proven community leader in value and customer service! • We Deliver or ship to your home/office • We Accept Medicaid/Medicare Ro d n ey Cu l o t t a , RPh

OPEN

9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat..

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 33

trodding the boards by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra at the Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts through May 19

hen one thinks of the audience included many Mexicans, Louisiana Philharmonic quite a few from Jalisco and Vera Cruz, Orchestra (LPO), un- who sang along even without the band derstandably, Beethoven & Brahms, leader’s encouragement. And at the Mozart & Tchaikovsky usually come to end, even as the LPO musicians were mind. packing up, Mariachi Vargas continThis year’s Fiesta Sinfonica, how- ued to play to the delight of the asever, brought the Mariachi Vargas to sembled throngs. New Orleans’ Convention Center TheLPO Conductor Carlos Miguel ater for a exuberant concert of this Prieto seamlessly incorporated the LPO rousing music indigenous to Mexico. into Mariachi Vargas’ orchestrations, Founded in 1898, Mariachi Vargas amplifying and enhancing the music’s de Tecalitlán is perhaps the most im- natural rhythms without ever making it portant and influential group in the his- feel weighted down by the addition of tory of Mariachi music, playing an inte- the orchestra. Rachel Van Voorhees’ gral role in the evolution of the genre twinkling touch on the (traditional) harp which originated in the state of Jalisco. was an especially nice ornamentation. Comprised of thirteen musician/ Prieto opened the program and singers, Mariachi Vargas features 6 set the mood for it with the shimmering violins, 3 trumpets, 2 guitars, a kind of Iberian expressionism of Jose Pablo mini-harp, and a guitarrón which looks Monceyo’s Huapango. Prieto’s conlike a guitar on steroids. The members ducting was sensitive but firm and of this all-male group appear very natty, brought out all the beauty of the piece. dressed as they are in traditional silver- After the intermission, Prieto, despite studded charro outfits with wide- passionately jumping up and down on brimmed hats. the podium, nicely controlled the dyAnd the music! To an uneducated namics of Geronimo Gimenez’ ear like mine, it all sounds more or less Intermedio. the same but no matter when it is so full As Prieto continues to build his of life, pulsing with a beat unique to international reputation, we are fortumariachi and a sound that only this nate to have him here in New Orleans, combination of instruments can pro- especially for his dedication to introduce. Invigorating, life-giving, animated ducing music from his native Mexico and just plain fun are only some of the and other Latin American countries to words that can describe Mariachi mu- the Big Easy. Let’s hope he stays on the sic. LPO podium for many years to come. The songs generally feature words The LPO has three more concerts like amor (love) or mi corazón (my this season, two Classics and a Speheart), and conjure up images of sitting cial one. On May 10, Yakov Kasman at a café in Acapulco in the 1950s underneath the moonlight. Yet not all of the numbers were songs of love or romance; one was a plea to God to look after the soul of a child who had died. Among the medleys was one featuring highlights of songs from Vera Cruz, home to Consuelo Velázquez, the composer of Besamé Mucho, and included La Bamba. Mariachi Vargas well-deserves its worldwide reputation. The group’s musicianship is su- José “Pepe” Martínez (Musical Director of Mariachi Vargas), Steeven Sandoval perb; to cite just two memorable (foreground), & Maestro Carlos Miguel examples, the finger work of the Prieto (photo by James Elorriaga) harpist was incredible and one of the singers who held a note for at least 30 seconds had the audi- will be the featured soloist in ence in awe of his prowess. Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 3. This was not your typical staid clas- Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 15 is sical music concert. The enthusiastic also on the bill for this Russian-ac-

cented evening. The regular season concludes on May 19 with the Symphony Chorus of New Orleans joining the LPO for Brahms’ short, powerful work for chorus and orchestra, Schicksallied (Song of Destiny), and Mahler’s towering Symphony No. 9. Both of these concerts will be conducted by Maestro Prieto. On May 20, the LPO again goes out on a limb with The Music of Led Zeppelin. Brent Havens conducts many of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers’ hits including Kasmir, Black Dog, Good Times, Bad Times, All of my Love, and of course, Stairway to Heaven. All three of these concerts will be at the Mahalia Jackson Theater in Armstrong Park. In The Wings —The Anthony Bean Community Theater presents the New Orleans premiere of Pearl Cleage’s drama, Blues For An Alabama Sky. Set in the Harlem Renaissance of 1930, Blues features a complex group of characters who are scrambling to survive the Depression and make some sense of their overlapping love lives. Angel is a struggling blues singer and nightclub performer who cannot find a job; her friend Guy, a gay costume designer, is also out of work but dreams of being hired to design dresses for the famous singer and dancer Josephine Baker; their neighbor Delia, a social worker, is trying to organize a family planning clinic in Harlem; their friend Sam, a doctor, works long hours delivering babies at the Harlem Hospital; and Leland, having recently moved to New York from Tuskegee, sees in Angel a memory of lost love and a reminder of those “Alabama skies where the stars are so thick it’s bright as day.” Anthony Bean directs a cast that includes Inas Mahdi, Candice Ross, Damien Moses, Greg P. Williams and Bean himself as Guy. Performances are through April 29 at 1333 South Carrollton Avenue. —Created by local playwright/actor Ren French, along with Thomas Adkins of New York, The Clifton Monroe Chronicles is a serial radio show performed live in the style of old-time radio dramas of the 1930s and ’40s. It follows the adventures of ace reporter Clifton Monroe and his quirky sidekick Mattie as they scour the streets of New Orleans solving the biggest mysteries in the name of truth, justice and a “killer” headline. The first episode, titled “The Case of the Scarlet G”, chronicles Clifton and Mattie as they try to solve who is blackmailing the daughter of a former business magnate and what is the dark secret of the infamous family’s deadly past. The Clifton Monroe Chronicles is directed by Andrea Carlin and features Leslie Boles, Jackie Freeman,

Ren French, Liam Kraus and Richard Mayer who combine to create a menagerie of characters in each episode. Performances are through April 28 at the Shadowbox Theatre (2400 St. Claude Avenue). —Written by Parnell Herbert, Angola 3 examines the true, ongoing story of three men who were framed for murders they did not commit. Incarcerated in Angola Prison, this set-up was supposedly done to silence their actions aimed at changing the mentality of inmate sexual bondage, rape, brutality and murder in the United States’ bloodiest and most brutal penitentiary. Two men, who still proclaim their innocence, remain behind bars after forty years—longer than anyone in recorded history. Chakula cha Jua directs. Through May 6 at Ashé Cultural Arts Center (1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.) —After last year’s exhilarating production of A Midsummer’s Night Dream, The NOLA Project returns to the beautiful natural settings of NOMA’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden with Shakespeare’s As You Like It, a tale of cross-dressing, mistaken identity, and love, filled with poetry, song, slapstick humor, and shrewd observations about human nature. Featuring the talents of James Bartelle, Natalie Boyd, Kathlyn Carson, Keith Claverie, Mike Harkins, Clint Johnson, Kate Kuen, Michael Krikorian, Jason Kirkpatrick, Michael Aaron Santos, Kris Shaw, Michael Sullivan, Alex Martinez Wallace, Kristin Witterschein, and Jim Wright, As You Like It is directed by Sam Dudley and runs May 9-20 in its City Park setting. —Jefferson Performing Arts Society (JPAS) closes out its 34th Season with the local premiere of Xanadu, The Musical. Based on the ’80s cinematic disaster, Xanadu follows the journey of a magical, beautiful Greek muse, Kira, who descends from the heavens of Mt. Olympus to Venice Beach, California on a quest to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to achieve the greatest artistic creation of all time—the first Roller Disco! (hey, it’s 1980) But, when Kira falls into forbidden love with the mortal Sonny, her jealous sisters take advantage of the situation and chaos and comedy abound. Reviewing the original 2008 Broadway production I wrote, “I have a sneaking suspicion that just about everybody reading this who goes to see Xanadu will enjoy it. Adapted by Douglas Carter Beane from the wretched movie, this Xanadu is virtually critic proof as it continuously pokes fun at itself...and its audience (“This is art not for the well-educated or intelligent.” one character intones, “Like you.”) With puns, naughty humor and cheesy, well, everything abounding, Xanadu is certainly over-the-top, never more so than when the cast is twirling [continued on 35]

34 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

trodding the boards ...from34 around on roller skates. Yet its Top 40 score (Magic, I’m Alive, Have You Never Been Mellow? and the title song) ensures a certain level of aural enjoyability. The show does have some slow moments, usually when no one’s sing-

ing, but otherwise things move along briskly and the stage is filled with zany antics. Were it not for the presence of Tony Roberts—who used to play Woody Allen’s best friend and here tongue-in-cheekly plays Zeus— Xanadu would unquestionably be the gayest show ever. As it is, when dozens of disco balls come down from the

rafters for the finale, it comes pretty darn close.” Directed by Dane Rhodes, Xanadu features a cast led by Tiffany Jones, Eddie Simon and Vatican Lokey with Tara Brewer, Leslie Limberg, Jason George, Vanessa Van Vranken, Jessica Mixon and Ryan Jones. Xanadu will be at the Westwego

Performing Arts Theatre (177 Sala Ave, Westwego) May 11-27, followed by performances June 2 & 3 in the Fuhrmann Auditorium at the Greater Covington Center (317 N. Jefferson Ave, Covington) and June 9 & 10 at the Temple Theatre in Meridian, Mississippi. Meridian may never be the same again.

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 35

big easy

Easter Grand Marshal XIII Darwin Reed & Opal Masters

700 Club bartenders Travis & Paul Paul Davis & Tami Tarmac

Parade Line-Up Chair Steve Patrick

Eva Las Vegas & Monica Synclaire-Kennedy David Forth & Easter Grand Marshal XIII Rhonda Roget

The pretty girls

Pride Grand Marshals Matthew & Tony flank Tiffany & Electra

Jason George & friend

GEP Boards Rip & Marsha

Queen Armeinius 44 Aunt Ida Comeaux

Pair-A-Dice Tumblers

Sassy & ready! GEP Boards Electra City & Tittie Toulouse

Tami Tarmac, Gary Vandeventer & Cathy Fox Amon-Ra Bunny Reject Frankie Fierce & Dusty Debris

The Vue’-Mays, Jim & Deja

Lords of Leather flank Lord Consort XXIX Jason Alford

Michael’s On The Park’s Mike & Paul

Jarret, Rip, Marsha & Elizabeth

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

Gay Easter Parade Pre-Parade Party @ Michael’s On The Park, Gay Easter Parade Post-Parade Party @ 700 Club ~ New Orleans

papar azzi

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37

ambush

Bunny Marshals (BMs) X Jeff Mallon aka Elizabeth Bouvier & Marty Curtin

Kajun’s Pub’s Sissiest Bonnet Deja with BM X Jeff

NOLA Pride GMs Announcement Party MC Persana Shoulders Carl joins French Quarter Fest @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Beaux, Barrett, 33rd Pride Grand Marshal Tony Leggio & Brent Mimi’s presents Tallest Bonnet

Big Daddy’s presents Widest Bonnet

Phoenix’s Butchest Bonnet goes to Chris aka Barbara Ella

29th French Quarter Fest brings out 574,000 participants

33rd Pride Grand Marshal Matthew Birkoff with Athena, Tiffany & Raven Friendly Bar’s Best Couple Lady GaGa Bunnies with BM X Marty

Mardi Gras Indians in Jackson Square

Outgoing PGMs Chris & Misti present Princesse Stephaney with Princesse of Pride for Life JohnPaul’s Best Group went to Tissue Heads

Andrew Jackson in front of St. Louis Cathedral

BM X Marty with Cutter’s Most Glamorous Bonnet Miss Love

Who Dat Cafe’s Best Newbie Bonnet presented by Craig

BMs X Jeff & Marty present MeyerRouth Spirit Award to Herb & Robert

NOLA Pride’s Reinita Newman & Cathy Fox

Janice Medlock (r) joins Some Like It Hot on Bourbon St.

38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM

NOLA Pride Grand Marshal Announcement Bash @ Hotel Monteleone, French Quarter Fest ~ New Orleans

10th Marigny Bunny Hop/Bonnet Contest led by Bunny Marshals X Marty Curtin & Jeff Mallon ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

papar azzi

ambush

Clubs, Parties, Pageants & Shows - New Orleans ~ Photos by Devin, Kyler Landry, Tony Leggio

papar azzi

Bourbon Pub bartender Chris & Corner Pocket bartender Bruce @ Bourbon Pub

Napoleon’s Itch’s Chuck Robinson & gang @ Oz White Party

Delicious wins 18th Miss Trailer Park @ Good Friends Bar

Tami Tarmac’s Cougar Cabaret @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Matthew & Bradley @ Pub's Friday Strip-Off Contest

Bartender Lee welcomes you to Rawhide Contestants @ Bourbon Pub’s Friday Strip-Off

Winners of Miss & Mr. Bold & Beautiful

Trailer Park Beauty Pageant MC Rikki Gee snags a cutie

Ryan on the bar @ The Corner Pocket

Napoleon’s Itch pole dancer during French Quarter Fest

DJ Tim, Frankie & Dusty @ Oz White Party

Princesse & Persana snag a cutie @ Oz White Party

Oz White Party

Klorocks, Barry & Michael following the Gay Easter Parade @ the Pocket

Barbara Ella in Impromptu Show @ JohnPaul’s

Paul on the bar @ the Pocket

Corynne Synclaire Deville @ JohnPaul’s Impromptu Show

Grand prizes @ the Trailer Park Beauty Pageant

Diva R Us does French Quarter Fest @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 39

40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • April 24-May 7, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM