2 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.COM • May 20-J une 2, 2014 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide© sinc e 1982 • Sout her nDec adenc e.c om Offic hernDec
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THE OFFICIAL MAG
the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Excitement this Memorial Day Weekend This Memorial Day weekend promises to be one action-packed holiday in greater New Orleans. From sizzling hot strip-offs, to some of the best DJ/VJs in town, to great boils and cookouts, pool parties, contests, fundraisers and more, you're sure to find the perfect activity for your pleasure. Enjoy this edition of Ambush Mag, always free, out on time every time, and available at over 80 locations in the Gulf South. (www.AmbushMag.com)
Mary Plantation Ribbon Cutting May 22 New Orleans hotelier Blake Miller will host a ribbon cutting at Mary Plantation in eastern Plaquemine Parish, Thursday, May 22nd, 11:30am till 1pm. This will be a historic day with the reopening of the 1700's oldest building still standing on the east bank. Through many years and numerous hurricanes Mary has been restored to her former glory. Preserving the history of Louisiana culture is paramount. This cultural preservation is what separates Louisiana from most of modern America. Photo courtesy of Special guest Louisiana Lt. Governor NOCourtyard.com Jay Dardene will cut the ceremonial ribbon. For directions please visit http://maryplantation.com. Mary is just a casual drive of . 25 - 30 minutes from downtown New Orleans.
Oz Announces Memorial Day Weekend Line-up Dance Club and Show Bar of the Year Oz New Orleans has set a five-day lineup for this Memorial Day Weekend in the city. It all begins with the Thursday Strip-Off Contest at 12midnight hosted by Persana Shoulders. DJ Tim Pflueger does the honors, and 1st place winner takes home $100 cash and 32 oz. of Swiss Navy Lube. Start Friday off with Video Happy Hour where all drinks are 1/2 price top to bottom shell 4-8pm with VJ Kyle D. playing your favorite videos, comedy clips and requests 4-10pm. DJ Tim Pflueger hits the tables 10pm until. On Saturday catch Dingo with prizes at 6pm hosted by Persana Shoulders and Raven Kennedy followed by the Boy Next Door Strip-Off Contest at 8pm. Dance the night away with DJ Tim Pflueger, and DJ of the Year JRB. May 25th brings you Sunday Tea Dance with DJ Tim Pflueger 6-10pm, followed by DJ of the Year JRB 10pm 'til. At 10pm, it's show time with Blanche Debris. Don't forget Memorial Day on Monday, and join Oz for the last stop on the MASCARa Race benefitting the NOCCA Institute. It's also Service Industry Night with DJ of the Year JRB.
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Weekend lights are by Johnny Eubanks with the hot Men of Oz dancing on the bar all weekend. All military personnel get in free all weekend as well. Every day is the all new 1/2 Price Happy Hour top to bottom shelf 4-8pm. VJ Kyle D. plays your favorite videos, comedy clips and requests 4-10pm ThursdaySunday. Visit www.OzNewOrleans.com for more information
15th Annual MASCARa Race Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans May 23-26 Sponsored by Wood Enterprises and Budweiser, the 15th Annual MASCARa Race promises to be even bigger and better with events surrounding the race all weekend long May 23-26. All proceeds from the event benefits the NOCCA Institute which supports NOCCA Riverfront. It assists all students who need help with tuition and any other supplies needed. It also helps with each production NOCCA puts on.
Pre-Pride, Father's Day issue out June 3 >DEADLINE: Tues., May 27
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Each MASCARa runner/contestant is asked to get sponsors to donate money raising as much as they can. On the day of the race, each team will sign up and turn in all monies raised. Since 2002 more than $110,654 has been raised for this very worthy charity. On Friday, May 23rd, Good Friends Bar at the corner of St. Ann and Dauphine Streets, will hold the 14th Annual Hamster Derby beginning at 5pm. One can bet on the races using Hamster Bucks ($1 gets you 10 Hamster Bucks) which can be purchased at the betting booth. These Hamster Bucks can be used later at the charity auction with prizes that have been donated by local retailers. On Sunday, May 25th, Rawhide, located at the corner of St. Ann and Burgundy, will host its annual Crawfish Boil at 5pm at $10 per plate. They brag that they make the best crawfish in the South. The MASCARa $5 Beer Bust will be hosted at the same time. The race itself will be held Memorial Day, Monday, May 26 at Clover Grill, corner of Bourbon and Dumaine, promptly at 2pm. As the contestants are announced, they will take their seat at Clover Grill, where they will be served a piping hot order of chili cheese fries. Once the horn sounds, the contestants begin eating. All food stuff must be consumed before the runner can leave the table. Then it’s off to… Café Lafitte in Exile, the 2nd Pit Stop; where the runners will slip into their stockings and heels while consuming a shot of peppermint schnapps. Yes, the heels will be measured before the runners can leave. Leaving through the front door, the runners will then proceed down Dumaine Street, turning left at Burgundy. Once arriving at Rawhide, the 3rd Pit Stop, the runners will consume a 16oz. Bud Light while putting on their earrings, two rings, a bracelet and a necklace. Once completed, the runners will proceed up St. Ann to Good Friends Bar, the 4th Pit Stop; where they will enjoy a Separator while applying their make-up, eye lashes, and fake nails. Contestants must have ten nails and they must be painted! Leaving Good Friends, the runners will proceed to the Bourbon Pub, 5th Pit Stop; where they will consume a mind eraser and apply their bra, boobs, and wig. Crossing the street to Oz, 6th Pit Stop; the runners will then consume a surprise drink while putting on their dress. The final sprint: the runners will continue up Bourbon back to Clover Grill, 7th Pit Stop, to cross the finish line. The runners will enter through the Dumaine side, put on their hat and purse, and exit through the door facing Bourbon Street. The runners must have everything on accumulated through the Pit Stops, and will be judged for all points at this stage. There are three categories of competition: Fastest Time, Best Drag and Most Money Raised. Contestants will be awarded points in each category with a trophy being awarded in each category. The person who receives the most points will be declared
Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide© Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide© Official Gay New Orleans Guide© Official Pride 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 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 Texas - Houston
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 Frank Joseph 504.444.8327 Paul Melancon 504.522.8049 THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Frank Joseph, Charles Jenkins, Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkey, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans Bob Brunson, MIss Cie & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-Pensacola, FL National Advertising Rep: Rivendell Media 212.242.6863 Ambush Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip NaquinDelain, 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. ©1982-2014, AMBUSH, INC.,ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDINGAD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation
Ms. Mascara 2014. The award ceremony will be held later that day, at 5pm at Rawhide, located at 740 Burgundy Street. To become a contestant or for more information, contact Chris Ward at 504.525.6724.
Lords of Leather Crawfish Boil & Poker Run May 25 Try your luck at poker and follow that up with a delicious crawfish boil on Sunday, May 25th at 2pm at the Phoenix. Enjoy the Memorial Day holiday weekend and join the Lords as they will visit several bars in the Marigny for their annual poker run and award fabulous prizes to the winners. The
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celebrazzi
After an exciting night of competition, the Miss Gay New Orleans America pageant came to a conclusion with Venus Monroe capturing the crown and Gia GiaVanni as 1st Alternate. Hosted at Show Bar of the Year Oz New Orleans, both will now represent the club at the upcoming Miss Gay Louisiana America pageant in July, a prelim to Miss Gay America. (Photo: Miss Gay New Orleans America 2013 Monica Synclaire-Kennedy, Miss Gay New Orleans America 2014 Venus Monroe, 1st Alternate Gia GiaVanni, Miss Gay Louisiana America Mercedes Ellis Loreal, Oz Host Persana Shoulders) (Photo by Hubert S Monkeys) Function Lieutenant Joby Jacomin and Captain Freddie Guess invited a multitude of colorful guest to the annual Krewe of Armeinius Glitter and Be Gay! party hosted at the home and courtyard of President Scott Spivey complete with open bar, hors d'oeurvres and auctions. (Photo by Rip Naquin) Vice President Mina Hernandez and partner Nanette Owings welcomed a huge crowd to the annual Krewe of Amon-Ra Fish Fry at GrandPre's in New Orleans. The event sold out of fried fish prepared by King and Queen AmonRa XXXIX David Richerson and Pete Eschete. There were loads of sides and desserts. (Photo by Tony Leggio)
Opal Masters joins Corner Pocket's Tommy Elias for the inaugural run of Zingo at The Corner Pocket in New Orleans. While "pulling the balls," Opal helped put the zing back in Sunday afternoons with guests winning fun prizes. The Zingo duties will be shared by either Opal or Barry Bareass every Sunday. (Photo by Tony Leggio)
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by and enjoy a cold beer with the Lords of Leather at their beer tent. Sales will go from noon until 5pm. This year’s festival will be held at Duncan Plaza Park across from City Hall on Loyola Avenue in the CBD. Mr. Louisiana Leather 2015 Contest Put Saturday, August 30th on your calendar now so you don’t miss the Mr. Louisiana Leather 2015 Contest. This year’s event will be held during Southern Decadence at Mag’s 940. The winner receives a berth in the 2015 International Mr. Leather Contest in Chicago next May. The contest is open to Gulf Coast area leathermen.
You Can Make a Difference this Southern Decadence
the "official" dish ...from 4 run will end at the Phoenix where you can cool down with a beverage and chow down on some great crawfish hot from the pot. Cost will be $10 for entry into the poker run and $10 for the seafood boil or better yet, just $15 for both! And there's more events to come: 5th Friday Beer Bust When a month has a fifth Friday you’re sure to find the Lords of Leather hosting a
$5 Beer Bust at the Phoenix. Stop in on Friday, May 30th from 9pm – midnight for some fun and debauchery. The next fifth Friday…..? Halloween, October 31st. Who’s Your Daddy?? Find out who will win this year’s sash at the Lords’ Annual “Who’s Your Daddy?” contest on Saturday night, June 14th at the Phoenix. Contestants will be judged on grab-bag attire, a not-so-serious interview, success in a 50/50 raffle, and audience participation. All this, plus a $5 beer bust on the patio. It all adds up to a fun-filled event you will not want to miss. NOLA Pride While attending NOLA Pride on Saturday, June 21st be sure to stop
Things are already rolling for a great Southern Decadence 2014. The Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern has already raised almost $4,500 with weekend raffles since November 2013, donations and a Southern Decadence Crawfish Boil. The Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Announcement Party at Lucky Pierre's raised $1,091, while Electra City and Tittie Toulouse's 1st Southern Decadence Fundraiser Bash brought in another $1,000 at their club, The Four Seasons and Patio Stage Bar in Metairie. The 40th (XL), or as we like to call them, the Xtra Luscious Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Chad Boutte, Reba Douglas and Aubrey Synclaire have already begun lining up fundraisers, as well as the Official Southern Decadence Press Party. On Saturday, June 7th, 2-5pm, it's a Southern Decadence Crawfish Boil benefit hosted by Tittie Toulouse at Electra City at The Four Seasons in Metairie. Saturday, June 14th, 8-10pm, brings the Official Southern Decadence Press Party to the Bourbon Pub & Parade. Here the grand marshals will announce the theme, colors, and all of their exciting selections for the 2014 celebration On Saturday, July 12th, 8pm, it's SDGM XL Reba Douglas’ Birthday Show benefiting Southern Decadence 2014 at Lucky Pierre’s.
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fierce by Frank Joseph E-mail: partyfrank21@yahoo.com
A Day in the Rain So remember the anniversary of the May flood was on Thursday I believe... Well honey we made our own flood!! The show must go on... So me, Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Reba Douglas, Kookie Baker & Ilaynnah Eve are walking down St. Ann with mugs beat down to the fullest holding umbrella’s and dragging suit cases. We had to get them to there show that Friday night at Grandpre’s. We trucked thru the waters of St. Ann all the way to Rampart with make-up in place ready to party. The show must go on we said!! So the crowd was at GrandPre’s ready for a show!! Well honey these girls put on a damn good show for a rainy night that it was. We had the best time and so did the girls. If you go to GrandPre’s don’t forget to try SDGM Reba Douglas favorite drink the Watermelon Mojito. In honor of me you must get a Fireball shot !! Next time you see Ilaynnah Eve ask her how it is to be a girl on fire. She will know what to say!! When you see Kookie Baker give her some lollipops she loves her candy!! Well thanks for reading till next time. I’m Frankie Fierce and you might see me at your next party or show!!
the "official" dish ...from 8 And on Saturday, July 26th, 10pm, it's the Southern Decadence Fundraiser Show & Auction hosted by Lesbian of the Year Misti Ates at Allways Lounge. Ambush Mag presents the 27th Annual Gay Appreciation Awards Gala benefiting Southern Decadence 2014 at Oz New Orleans on Saturday, August 2nd, 810pm.
First Look: “UPSTAIRS INFERNO” Camina Entertainment is excited to release the chilling teaser trailer for the eagerly awaited documentary, UPSTAIRS INFERNO. (http://vimeo.com/94905654). An IndieGoGo fundraising campaign was also launched to help cover the remaining production costs (http://igg.me/at/UpstairsInfernoFilm). On June 24, 1973, an arsonist set fire to a gay bar in New Orleans called the Up Stairs Lounge. The result was the largest gay mass murder in U.S. history. Despite the staggering historical significance, few people know about the tragedy. Thirty-two people were killed and some bodies were never identified because their families were ashamed that the victims were gay. No one was ever charged with the
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moments in gay new orleans history by Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net
“NO/AIDS Task Force” In 1978, C.J. Robichaux and Ernie Wadlington, both medical technicians, attended a medical convention in Lafayette, Louisiana. Part of the convention involved a Quiz Bowl at which Ernie was the moderator and C.J. was a judge. At one point during the game, the two men became embroiled in a dispute over a contestant’s answer. C.J. and Ernie continued to get acquainted and when the convention was over, C.J., who lived in New Orleans, found himself driving up to North Louisiana every other weekend to visit Ernie. The pair had fallen in love and before long, Ernie moved to New Orleans where the two bought a house and settled into a nice domestic life. Neither man had any idea that Ernie was HIV positive. The virus laid dormant until 1988. C.J. and Ernie were on vacation in Springfield, MO when Ernie became sick. Upon returning home, Ernie’s doctor diagnosed him with double-pneumonia and also informed with he had AIDS. Ernie struggled for three years and finally succumbed to the disease in May of 1991. Before Ernie’s death, C.J. took a leave of absence from his job as a medical technician at Charity Hospital to care for Ernie. By this time, the AIDS epidemic was ravaging not only New Orleans, but also cities across the nation. C.J. remembers, “It was like an avalanche. So many people were dying. There was a short period where I could’ve gone to ten funerals.” In addition to processing his own grief, C.J. also had to deal with the very real possibility that he may have contracted the virus. He assumed he was positive and put off getting tested. Eventually he did get
tested and to his surprise he was negative. C.J. recalls, “In the 1980s, before we knew it was a virus, everyone was so scared. The biggest thing back then fear of the unknown.” C.J. and Ernie’s story is typical of thousands of other stories. Ignorance of the disease and the lack of effective treatments created a real need for education and outreach in the early 1980s. Led by Ted Wisniewski, who as a resident at Charity Hospital saw the need first hand, several medical professionals and others in New Orleans began meeting to discuss ways to address the crisis. Some of these people included Rue Morrison, Thomas Norman, Robert Kremitzki, Louise McFarland, Harlee Kutezen, Leonard Doty, Richard Devlin, Craig Henry, Henry Schmidt, Carole Pindaro, Jim Kellogg, Dr. Brobson Lutz, Jonathan Clemmer, and Father Bob Pawell. Out of these meetings, the NO/AIDS Task Force was born in 1983. The NO/AIDS Task Force has been delivering HIV/AIDS services since its inception. The services offered (followed by the year of initiation in parentheses) include: telephone hotline (1983), community outreach (1983), condom distribution (1985), HIV antibody testing and counseling (1985), buddy/companion program (1985), case management (1990), substance abuse and mental health counseling (1990), support groups (1990), early intervention services (TB, Hepatitis B, flu shots, etc.) (1991), home delivered meals (1992), benefits assistance program (1992), street outreach (1994), changing high risk environments (1994), food bank (1997), treatment education/adherence counsel-
ing (1998), primary medical care (1999), housing coordination (1999), peer support program (1999), case finding (2000), community mobilization project targeting men who have sex with men (2000), liaison nurse home visits (2001), housing case management (2001), medication disbursement (2001), office in Houma/Thibodeaux area (2001), training for allied health care professionals (2002), Exchange House – a transitional residential facility in Houma, LA (2003), awarded CDC grant targeting prevention for MSM – opened Community Awareness Network (CAN) office on Frenchman (2004), awarded CDC grant to tailor and adapt intervention for internet chat rooms (2004), Avita Drugs opened a pharmacy on site (2004), housing case management program (2005), CareVan arrived as gift from Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation – to be used for medical care and mobile counseling and testing (2006), awarded funding to begin National HIV Behavioral Surveillance site (2006), AIDSLaw of Louisiana co-located with the Task Force (2006), Primary Medical Care program expanded with full time physician and expanded clinic hours (2007), Consumer Advisory Council (2007), Medical Nutrition Therapy (2008), Peer Suite (computer lab and exercise room) (2008), Medical transportation (2008), Permanent Supportive Housing program (2009), awarded SAMHSA funding – began intensive outpatient substance abuse therapy program (2009), CHAT program (Curbing HIV/AIDS Transmission) targeting HIV prevention for youth (2009), awarded Ryan White Part C funding for Early Intervention Services (primary medical care) (2009), Shanti L.I.F.E. (Learning Immune Function Enhancement) (2010), Case management program with Orleans Criminal Sheriff’s Office (2010), awarded CDC funding for young black gay/ bisexual MSM – opened The Movement program (2012), AIDSLaw of Louisiana merged with NO/AIDS Task Force, providing legal services in N.O. and B.R. (2012), Food For Friends kitchen opened at First Unitarian Universalist Church (2013), Counseling and Testing program in the Orleans
municipal Court (2013), New Orleans Syringe Access Program moves to NO/AIDS Task Force (2013), awarded Ryan White Part D funding providing resources for women, infants, children and youth- the Family Advocacy, Care, and Education Services (FACES) program (formerly program of Children’s Hospital) joined NO/AIDS upon grant award (2013), awarded funding to become a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) (2013), opened Family Care Service Center at 4640 S. Carrollton Avenue – primary medical care for anyone (2014), and received CARF Accreditation (2014). Today, the agency offers a continuum of services, including prevention education (street and community outreach, venuebased outreach, condom distribution and community mobilization targeting men who have sex with men), HIV antibody testing and counseling, the statewide HIV/AIDS hotline, case management, case finding, housing coordination, early intervention/ primary medical care, mental health, support groups, home delivered meals, food bank, peer support services, housing case management, and medication disbursement. NO/AIDS Task Force serves all individuals, regardless of gender, sexual orientation or identity, race, ethnicity, religion, education, or socioeconomic status. The clients served by the agency over the past 30 years have been those individuals and communities most impacted by the HIV/ AIDS epidemic. This has included men who have sex with men, women, commercial sex workers, African Americans, Latino/as, and injecting drug users. Additionally, the agency offers its services in rural areas. The history of the NO/AIDS Task Force is a brilliant example of a community pulling together to respond to a need. What started as support services has grown into an organization providing comprehensive services including medical and clinical services, prevention and education, case management, legal assistance, food delivery, behavioral health, and medication assistance.
Jean Redmann recalls the agency’s early days, “As we realized how daunting the task was, we also realized we were in it for the long haul.” Thirty-one years later, the NO/AIDS Task Force is still meeting local needs. Perhaps C.J. Robichaux summed it up best when he said, “The NO/ AIDS Task Force has been one of our greatest blessings.”
the "official" dish ...from 10 crime. The tragedy did not stop at the loss of lives. There were also the delayed injuries: lost jobs, fear, public ridicule and severed families. The devastation was compounded by the homophobic reactions and utter lack of concern by the general public, government and religious leaders. The fire permanently altered lives and was the root of many lifelong struggles. UPSTAIRS INFERNO is poised to be the most comprehensive and authoritative film on the fire. Interviews with survivors and witnesses to the aftermath have been heart wrenching and insightful. Some of the people interviewed haven’t discussed the fire until now, especially on camera. Camina Entertainment is thrilled to say that many granted it exclusive on-camera interviews. The documentary also features interviews with historians, experts and current leaders of the New Orleans LGBT community. UPSTAIRS INFERNO will be the only documentary about the fire to feature these pivotal players in one place. Police reports, crime scene photographs, personal photographs, newspaper clippings and video clips from local news stations are also featured in the film. People can donate to UPSTAIRS INFERNO and help preserve history on film by following the link on www.upstairsinferno.com or directly at http://igg.me/at/ UpstairsInfernoFilm.
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SDGMs XXXIX Tami Tarmac & Venus Santiago host SDGM XL Announcement Party @ Lucky Pierre’s
Former King Cake Queen Dusty Debris & Albert Carey @ Armeinius’ Glitter & Be Gay
New Orleans Southern Decadence Inc’s Rip & Marsha flank new SDGMs XL (aka Xtra Luscious) Aubrey Synclaire, Chad Boutte & Reba Douglas
Todd, Kent & Brooklyn @ Armeinius’ Glitter & Be Gay
Bootsie DeVille & President Scott Spivey @ Armeinius’ Glitter & Be Gay
Former King Paul Davis with reigning Amon-Ra King David @ Amon-Ra Fish Fry @ GrandPre's
The legendary Teryl-Lynn Foxx, reigning Miss Essence Classic Int’l, on the Oz stage @ Miss Gay New Orleans America
Oz MC Persana Shoulders with SDGM XL Aubrey Synclaire @ Miss Gay New Orleans America
Michael, Larry, Ron & Stuart join Amon-Ra Fish Fry @ GrandPre’s
President Opal, GrandPre’s Ken & Darwin host Amon-Ra Fish Fry @ GrandPre’s Gia GiaVanni in competition @ Miss Gay New Orleans America
Monica Synclaire-Kennedy does her final number as reigning Miss Gay New Orleans America
Hotelier Blake Miller joins Armeinius’ Glitter & Be Gay
Crowned heads of state @ Armeinius’ Glitter & Be Gay
Newly crowned Miss Gay New Orleans America Venus Monroe & 1st Alternate Gia GiaVanni @ Oz
Pageant royalty on stage @ Miss Gay New Orleans America
Maybelline Maskara & Debbie SnatchCake serve up the Amon-Ra Fish Fry buffet
The annual Amon-Ra Fish Fry @ GrandPre’s
Regina with Kajun’s Pub’s Lisa & Joann @ Amon-Ra Fish Fry
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La Scène Sociale ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Davis, Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkeys, Rip Naquin
Venus Monroe in competition @ Miss Gay New Orleans America
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Prodigy, Blueberry & Pony Boy @ Rainbow Room
Wood Enterprises’ Chris & Allen @ Four Seasons' Mother’s Day Cookout
Hubert S Monkeys’ pics made the paper!
snap paparazzi
Bourbon Pub VJ Brendan Bartender Jason @ LeRoundup
Jason & Aaron selling shots for Southern Decadence Crawfish Boil @ Golden Lantern
Chansley & company welcomes you to George’s in Baton Rouge
Fun times @ George’s in Baton Rouge DJ Karbination @ Voodoo New Orleans Bears Beer Bust @ Rawhide
Honey B behind the bar @ The Four Seasons
Welcome to Splash Baton Rouge
Bill & Cricket @ Golden Lantern
Showtime @ The Golden Lantern with Klorocks, Princesse, Opal, Regina & Rikki
Derek, James, Little Jon & Tami join Southern Decadence Crawfish Boil @ Golden Lantern
Master Stylist Stephen Phillips Mondays @ Head Quarters
Saturday Dingo with Persana Shoulders & Raven Kennedy @ Oz
Cathy & Four Seasons’ Tittie celebrate Ben's farewell weekend @ The Four Seasons
Glamour @ Splash Baton Rouge
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The Club Scene ~ New Orleans, Baton Rouge ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Hubert S Monkeys
Daigle Daddy & Auran @ The Phoenix
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Book of the Month Steve Patrick, member of the Gay Easter Parade Board and active member in the gay community, has released his second novel entitled The Murder of Wednesday’s Children. Writing under the name N.S. Patrick, Steve has crafted an old-fashioned murder mystery sure to please fans of such greats like Agatha Christie, P.D. James and Ellery Queen. Coming off the success of his first book The Mysteries of Jack the Ripper, Patrick’s newest outing introduces us to a well-to-do couple who have a passion for solving crimes. Archer Reed and Lone Wallace are created in the same vein as Nick and Nora Charles right down to their faithful sidekick Tango the Greyhound (Hi Asta). Their first adventure (because I am sure there will be more to come) finds them at the home of an industrial tycoon for an investors meeting on Mantioch Island. With a diverse assortment of guests (suspects), it is not long before there is a murder. Actually there are three murders in very rapid succession which kicks off the action. Like any good murder mystery, no one can account for anyone’s whereabouts during the times of the murders making everyone a suspect. Soon the couple find themselves embroiled in a much serious crime that threatens their lives as they try and stop a very smart and cunning killer. The Murder of Wednesday’s Children is written in the golden age of this type of genre, the 1920’s during Prohibition. There is nothing altogether new or unique about Patrick’s novel, but it is a fun read with interesting characters and a great plot with lots of twists and turns. Half of the fun in a good mystery if trying to deduce the killer, and this novel succeeds immensely. With just the right amount of red herrings, Patrick’s storyline will keep you guessing right up to the end.
Happy Trails Lead To Happy Endings I am always up for a good bar crawl and there is a very cool one Uptown that has taken root over the last few years since its inception. HAPPY TRAILS - HAPPY ENDINGS will take place on Saturday May, 31st. This St. Charles streetcar pub crawl started simply with about 20 friends back in the summer of 2008 has quickly grown over the years to the point where they don’t fit on a streetcar anymore. This bi-annual event, due to the success and support of participants, is now used to raise money for various charities and causes. Previous crawls have contributed to gulf coast restoration efforts after the oil spill, and also the Red Thread Promise. LPK-Uptown will be the starting point at 4pm. The procession will stop at LPKUptown, Phillip’s Restaurant and Bar, Fat Harry’s, The Columns Hotel, Mayfair, Prytania Bar, Igor’s, and St. Charles Bar & Billiards before their final destination the French Quarter for more merriment and mayhem.
For more information, contact matthew.malkin@gmail.com or go to their website at http:// happytrailshappyendings.com.
Let’s Go To The Movies: Louisiana Style Lights! Camera! Action! If you are a film buff the Historic New Orleans Collection has a special treat for you. They are presenting the first of a seven-part monthly film series with a screening of the Academyaward winning “Jezebel” on Saturday, May 31st at 10:30am at The Historic New Orleans Collection’s Williams Research Center (410 Chartres St.). “Jezebel” tells the story of young, headstrong Julie Marsden (Bette Davis in one of my favorite rolls), who lives in New Orleans during the 1850s and is engaged to banker Preston “Pres” Dillard (Henry Fonda). Set against an impending yellow fever outbreak, the film follows Marsden as she loses her fiancé because of a stubborn stunt and tries to win him back. Davis won an Academy Award for her performance, and Max Steiner won an Academy Award for his score for the film. To honor Louisiana’s starring roles on the silver screen, the film series is presented in presented in conjunction with The Historic New Orleans Collection’s newest exhibit “From Cameo to Close-Up: Louisiana in Film.” Featuring posters, lobby cards, photographs and more from classic films to lesser-known works from the silent era to the mid-1990’s, the exhibition is on display now through Wednesday, November 26th. The screenings will be held one Saturday a month from now through November and the complete schedule is as follows: • June 28: “King Creole” (1958), starring Elvis Presley, Carolyn Jones and Walter Matthau, followed by a walk-through of “Creole World: Photographs of New Orleans and the Latin Caribbean Sphere” with photographer Richard Sexton • July 26: “Hush…Hush, Sweet Charlotte” (1964), starring Bette Davis, Olivia de Havilland and Joseph Cotten • August 30: “The Cincinnati Kid” (1965), starring Steve McQueen, Ann-Margaret and Edward G. Robinson • September 27: “Blaze” (1989), starring Paul Newman, Lolita Davidovich and Jerry Hardin • October 25: “Miller’s Crossing” (1990), starring Gabriel Byrne, Albert Finney and John Turturro • November 22: “These Amazing Shadows” (2011), starring Jeff Adachi, James H. Billington and Robin Blaetz This is a wonderful opportunity to combine your love of the cinema and our city. Admission is free, and the exhibition is on view through November 26th. Gallery hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 9:30am–4:30pm. Visit www.hnoc.org or call 504.523.4662 for more information. So grab your popcorn and let’s go to the movies.
Survivor: Drag Queen Style RuPaul may have his Drag Race, but in New Orleans we have Drag Survivor, which mixes all the reality shows Survivor and RuPaul’s Drag Race. Drag Survivor takes place on Friday, June 13th at The Four Seasons Lounge starting at 10pm. The premise is pretty simple; several guys compete for this title by preparing at least four numbers. Each guy will do their first number and will receive tips which are considered votes as well as donations to Toby Lefort's NO/AIDS Walk fund. After the first number, the contestant with the least tips is voted off then the remaining guys return and does another song and the one with the least amount of tips is voted off and so on until one girl is left standing. Also each contestant donates a gift basket of their choice and the basket raising the most money will make that contestant Miss Congeniality. Come out and support your favorite “girl” and help a good cause at the same time. The Four Seasons is located at 3229 North Causeway.
Party Down My last two weeks had some pretty amazing events from over the top galas to intimate house parties. I even traveled to Baton Rouge to play for a night which you will read about later in the article. But let’s get started in our own little backyard. There were alligators aplenty at the Audubon Zoo this year for the Whitney Zoo To Do 2014 on Friday, May 2nd. This year’s event celebrated the Zoo’s newest attraction, Gator Run, their Lazy River. Starting in 1972, the Zoo To Do is now one the largest nonmedical fundraisers in the United States. Because of this fundraiser, today the Audubon Zoo is positioned as one of the top zoological parks in the country. This year’s soiree exceeded all expectations making it one of the premier parties of the social scene. After getting a glass of champagne, guests entered through the front gate adorned with Cajun shacks, large three dimensional alligators, rustic nets and sparkling LED lights to give the illusion of fireflies. An array of bars and restaurants lined the entire facility from the Cooper Plaza to the Hygeia Fountain and Odenheimer Sea Lion Pool. The featured entertainment on the main stage was the Brass-A-Holics followed by Party On The Moon, a fabulous dance band out of Atlanta. They kept the dance floor crowded every moment they were on the stage. Their high energy was the crowning touch of the night. The weather cooperated perfectly to provide the attendees with a memorable and spectacular evening of entertainment and merriment. The following day was slightly more laid back as I attended John Pfeifer’s birthday party at his home in the French Quarter. A nice quiet evening with cake and cocktails was the best follow up to the previous evening. On Sunday, I attended the AmonRa Fish Fry at GrandPre’s, which had quite a crowd. There was good Southern home cooking as guests enjoyed hush puppies, flaky fresh fried catfish, two potato salads, baked beans, green beans and an array of desserts. I also went to a late night after Jazz Fest Bash at the majestic English Turn home of musician and Grammy Winner Terence Blanchard. There were musical performances by the NOCCA Band as well as the
Grammy U Students, followed by a dance party by DJ Brice Nice. Being involved heavily with Grammy U, Blanchard helped raise awareness of the group at this event. GRAMMY U is a unique and fast-growing community of college students, primarily between the ages of 17 and 25, who are pursuing a career in the recording industry. The Recording Academy created GRAMMY U to help prepare college students for their careers in the music industry through networking, educational programs and performance opportunities. GRAMMY U is designed to enhance students’ current academic curriculum with access to recording industry professionals to give an “out of classroom” perspective on the recording industry. The food was an eclectic mixture of fun vendors such as Woody’s Tacos, Plum Street Snowballs and Two Girls, One Shuck, all-female oyster shuckers. The weather cooperated wonderfully to make all the events magical. The following week began with my Cinco De Mayo celebration on Monday at the Tulane Avenue Bar with my friend Tico. We drank margaritas and watched Bianca del Rio breeze into the top three finalist position of RuPaul’s Drag Race. You sashay to the winner’s circle hunty, we are all proud of you! On Friday, I went to Baton Rouge, so I am jumping to Saturday night and the Krewe of Armeinius’ Glitter and Be Gay event at the home of Scott Spivey and John Pfeifer. It was a splendid evening with many people attending in their gayest finery. Illuminated by outdoor lighting strung overhead and numerous candles scattered around, the courtyard was captivating and with the lovely weather made for the perfect New Orleans evening. There was flowing cocktails, tasty food made by the krewe, an incredible silent auction (I should know I won half of the stuff it seems) and lots of fascinating guests. Congratulations to all who put on this unforgettable evening. Mother’s Day was a very special day spent with Dawn. I consider myself blessed so much to have such a great relationship with my mother. I know I am lucky when so many other gay people have been ostracized by their families, so I take every opportunity possible to let her know how much I appreciate her. Mother’s Day started early with us having champagne in my courtyard (the apple does not fall far from that tree). At noon, a horse drawn carriage picked us up at my house for lunch at Broussard’s Restaurant. I know it sounds cliché, but doing touristy things in your own city can be really enjoyable. The ride was relaxing and we got to view the city as tourists often see it. The meal was scrumptious and they even had a photographer in the courtyard taking complimentary photos of families - a very special added touch. After finishing most of the day with Mom, some friends of mine played a little more stopping briefly at Harrah’s so I can donate money (does anyone ever win there), then going to the Corner Pocket for their new Sunday Zingo. Opal Masters was the Mistress of Ceremonies today. All I can say there were more balls being pulled and dropped that day than ever before at this place. Partially clad men, cocktails and bingo, it is a gay trifecta and a fitting way to end my two weeks. With summertime here, remember to keep hydrated. That is why I always mix
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ambush
paparazzi
David & Trey in for Happy Hour @ Bourbon Pub & Parade
Zingo with Opal Masters @ The Corner Pocket
Welcome to Cafe Lafitte in Exile
Thanks Dr. George for the “Praise the Lard” shirts direct from LA! Bartender JJ ready for you @ Good Friends Bar
Zingo mania @ The Corner Pocket Bartender Dylan & Terry in The Balcony Bar upstairs @ Lafitte's
Cinco de Mayo with Tyriq @ Tulane Avenue Bar
The Country Club’s dynamic duo Drew & Kristen
Celebrating @ The Phoenix
Tyler, aka Sheneeda Dick, enters MASCARa Race for Good Friends
Cutie Steven slinging cocktails @ The Corner Pocket
Bartender Josh & manager Chuck welcome you to Bourbon Pub & Parade
Charlie Bear, aka Ms. Thunderpussy enters MASCARa Race for Rawhide with manager Richard
Craig grabbing a cocktail @ Rawhide
On the pole with Forbidden Thunder @ Tulane Avenue Bar
QT Pie’s Robert & Josh @ The Phoenix
Blake, Rikki, Javier & Paul @ Bourbon Pub & Parade
New Oz VJ Kyle D.
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C’est Si Bon ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin
Mom Catherine celebrates Kevin’s birthday @ Cutter’s
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GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM GRANDPRE'S, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615, Facebook.com/grandpres KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735, KajunPub.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 LUCKY PIERRE'S, 735 Bourbon St., 586.1836, LuckyPierresNOLA.com NINTH CIRCLE, 700 N. Rampart, 252.4558 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, NewOrleansPhoenix.COM RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM RAINBOW ROOM, 632 Bourbon St., enter thru Fishbowl, 994.1036, Facebook.COM/ rainbowroomonbourbon TROPICAL ISLE: Home of the Hand Grenade, 721 Bourbon St., 529.4109, TropicalIsle.COM TULANE AVENUE BAR, 3813 Tulane Ave., 488.1400 VOODOO BAR, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0953 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271 Houston, TX [713] NEON BOOTS DANCEHALL & SALOON, 11410 Hempstead Hwy., 677.0828, www.neonbootsclub.com
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Mandeville LA [985] Shirley "Toni" McCord, CPA, #4 Sanctuary Blvd., Suite 304, 985.727.7797, www.tmccordcpa.com Metairie, LA [504] Shirley "Toni" McCord, CPA, 3925 N. I-10 Service Rd., Suite 215, 504.888.8333, www.tmccordcpa.com
attorneys New Orleans, LA [504] Littlefield Law LLC, Attorney R. Kelp Littlefield, 639 Loyola Ave., Suite 1820, 504.525.1328 Tureau Legal, Troy A. Tureau , Attorney at Law, 8303 Pritchard Place, 70118, 504.602.9511, thelawprofessor@comcast.net
bars Mobile, AL [251] B-Bob's Downtown, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, B-Bobs.COM Flip Side Bar & Patio, 54 S. Conception St., 431.8819, FlipSideBarPatio.COM GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWN PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555
body rubs New Orleans, LA [504] Cum & Get A Rub Down-Good looking, middle age (but look younger), white guy, available for full body rub downs, servicing the FQ, DT hotels, guest houses, B&Bs, the Marigny & Bywater. Your place only, late night availability too, seniors welcome. Call Allen @ 504.250.8356. [is1014]
book stores New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700
French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
accounting
New Orleans, LA [504] Club New Orleans, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com
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 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457 Metairie, LA [504] FOUR SEASONS & PATIO STAGE BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, FourSeasonsBar.com New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 BOURBON PUB & PARADE, 801 Bourbon St., 529.2107, BourbonPub.COM CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829, CornerPocket.NET COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, Facebook.COM/GoldenLanternBar
chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., 1526 Magazine, 566.1833 [is914]
circuit/events May 23-26, 2014 Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM Aug. 27-Sept. 1, 2014, 43rd Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 150,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 23-26, 2014, Halloween 31, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.COM Dec. 26, 2014-Jan. 1, 2015, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 13-17, 2015, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015, 16th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM
costumes New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633
florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
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; 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] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416
hair salons 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 SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur, 565.5555, SalonDMalta.COM
hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465
health New Orleans, LA [504] New Orleans Urgent Care, 201 Decatur St., 700 Magazine St., 552.2433, NewOrleansUrgentCare.com
lodging/accommodations 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. [0714 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 "halfkitchen", 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. [0814] Chateau LeMoyne French Quarter 301 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70112, Phone: 504.581.1303, http:// www.hiclneworleanshotelsite.com/gay-hotelsnew-orleans. Enjoy a stay enriched with the culture and history of New Orleans at Chateau LeMoyne. Our historic building features all the best of old-time architecture and our prime location allows guests to stay just steps from the French Quarter, while still at enough distance to enjoy a peaceful night’s rest. Versatile guest accommodations include charmingly appointed suites and cottages, while on-site amenities include drinks and dining, a scenic courtyard area and pool, and meeting and event space. When you’re ready to explore, top New Orleans attractions are only moments away. We look forward to
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welcoming you to the “Big Easy.” THE FRENCH QUARTER GUEST HOUSES, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 877-681-5087 frenchquarterguesthouses.com. Email: info@stpeterhouse.com. Four meticulously restored boutique Inns located in the heart of the French Quarter’s most popular LGBT neighborhood. Each building’s individual character and charm provides an unforgettably authentic French Quarter experience! 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. A locally owned and operated French Quarter hotel that has been beautifully transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites. Several historical townhouses are also available to accommodate larger groups of up to 26. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St., free WiFi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available. 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, Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. A 19th century home that has been historically restored and transformed into a locally owned and operated hotel. Experience the rich history and hospitality of New Orleans at an affordable price. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St, free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available.
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 (Swedish/Deep Tissue); heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & Thai/Sport Stretching massage). Call/text 504.458.5996 / For pictures http://www.christophernola.com. License #LA4553 [is2614]
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 10am5pm 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 10am-4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm, 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, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm
music
media
New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666
New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Parade Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Pride 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
organizations
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
Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM 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 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 BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 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 GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES NATIONAL HOTLINE, 206.350.HATE (4283), National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800.799.SAFE (7233), Hate Crimes Hotline at the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights 800.552.6843 KREWE OF AMON-RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 1102, Kenner, LA. 70063-1102, petronius1961@cox.net KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bour-
bon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ KREWE OF URSUS, kreweofursus@aol.com LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. E-mail: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LORDS OF LEATHER, 1631 Elysian Fields, #161, 70117, www.LordsOfLeather.com
Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans, services at 10am, 6200 St Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118; 504.270.1MCC www.mccneworleans.org 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 BEAR AND BEAR TRAPPER SOCIAL CLUB, P.O. Box 57756, New Orleans, LA 70157-7756, 504.452.3564, theneworleansbears.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 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 CELEBRATION in New Orleans NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 RENEGADE BEARS OF LOUISIANA, PO Box 3083, New Orleans, LA 70177; renegadebearsoflouisiana@gmail.com SOFTBALL LEAGUE – Great fun for all skill levels, beginner to advanced. Visit nolasoftball.com for full details and find us on Facebook. SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org 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 YWCAAIDS 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 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AVITA DRUGS SPECIALIZED PHARMACY, free discrete delivery serving Louisiana, Mississippi & Texas. Certified pharmacists car-
Offic ial Pride Guide© sinc e 1982 • NOLAPride.org • May 20-J une 2, 2014 • Facebook.COM/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.COM • 27
ing for HIV/AIDS, new-to-market & hard-to-find medications including Serostim. Local pharmacy that supports the LGBT community. www.AvitaPharmacy.COM. New Orleans, LA [504] MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312, www.MumfreysPharmacy.COM. Supporting & serving the LGBT Community for over 20 years. Local pharmacy offering personalized family-like service, automatic refills & free metro wide confidential pickup & delivery. Also offering shipping for out-side our delivery area. When you call us you speak to a person, not a machine. See our ad.
photography New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com
real estate New Orleans, LA [504] Latter & Blum INC/French Quarter, Steve Richards, LGBT Realtor, 712 Orleans @ Royal, Cell: 504.258.1800, Office: 504.529.8140, Website: www.SteveRichardsProperties.com, Email: SRichards@LatterBlum.com LATTER & BLUM, Agent Brian M. Pawlowski, brianrealtor@aol.com, Agent Stace McDonald, stacerealtor@aol.com, 840 Elysian Fields, 451.2495
restaurants Mandeville, LA [985] The Po-Boy Shack, 1703 N. Causeway Blvd., 626.1303 New Orleans, LA [504] 801 Royal, 801 Royal St., 581.0801, 801Royal.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; Deanies.COM Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, 504.371.5074 Gene's Po-Boys, 1040 Elysian Fields, 943.3861 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET
retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 COK (Clothing or Kinkl), 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 HIT PARADE, 741 Bourbon St., Facebook.COM/HitParadeNOLA MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip, 561.8167 XXX SHOP EROTIC BOUTIQUE, 1835 N. Rampart St., 232.3063, www.XXXShopp.com
spas New Orleans, LA [504] Club New Orleans, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM JOY THEATER, 1200 Canal St., 208.1180,
under the gaydar ...from 22 water with my vodka. See you out!
Ambush on The Road: One Night in Baton Rouge Well, it is not quite as exotic as One Night in Bangkok, but we do what we can. Baton Rouge, our state capital, has some fun and exciting things to do and it is only a little more than an hour away (on good traffic days). My friends Beaux and Barrett joined me on my little Baton Rouge adventure which turned into quite the excursion. We stayed at the Hotel Indigo, a very sophisticated boutique hotel in the Baton Rouge Downtown Riverfront at 200 Convention Street. Located in a historic building, the Indigo blends a modern contemporary feel with amazing Southern Hospitality. The service is outstanding and it offers many amenities to their guests from complimentary wireless Internet access to a 24 hour workout center. The lobby sets the atmosphere of elegance which carries over to the rooms, which are beautifully designed with well-appointed bathrooms (love the showers) and extremely comfortable beds. Which is the most important feature of a room in my opinion; they passed that test with flying colors, the beds simply enveloped you. The hotel is also within walking distance of several major attractions such as the Louisiana State Capitol, Central Business District and Riverfront Convention Center. We got settled into our room, and then did a quick change for a night out in Red Stick. We started by defying the bad weather to attend Hot Art, Cool Nights. This is the 11th annual Baton Rouge Mid-City Merchants sponsored spring art hop. This was a cool event, which I liken to our White Linen Night or Art For Art’s Sake. Thousands of art lovers jam into the participating businesses enjoying the art and in select locations some great local bands. What is so unique about this event is that it is more than just art galleries involved, Mid-City businesses will sponsor local artists and their original work. We visited everything from coffee shops to an insurance agency, all showcasing both well-known artists and new talent. Two of my favorite spots were Elizabethan Gallery and Lauren Maier State Farm. Mid-City is considered the premier art and design district of the city with its area spanning from I-10 to Lobdell Boulevard and from Claycut/Broussard to Main Street. All proceeds from this event go to public art for this area of Baton Rouge. There was TheJoyTheater.com MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 MID-CITY THEATRE, 3240 Toulouse, 488.1460, MidCityTheatre.COM NEW ORLEANS FRINGE FESTIVAL, NOFringe.ORG Slidell, LA [985 CUTTING EDGE THEATER, 742 Robert Blvd., 649.3727, CuttingEdgeTheater,COM
tours New Orleans, LA [504] Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann St., 568.0717. follow Gay New Orleans Walking Tour @ Facebook.COM
even free shuttle bus transportation. Afterwards we went to dinner at one of Baton Rouge’s top restaurants Fleming’s Steakhouse. Fleming’s of Baton Rouge is in Mid-South City, located at 7321 Corporate Boulevard, just off of I10 near the Bocage Village Shopping Center. This excellent steakhouse is a complete dining experience that goes beyond just good cuisine. The service is excellent from entrance to exit. The décor is tasteful and understated with rich wood grain looks and comfortable banquets. Not familiar with the restaurant, I did some research on their history. Founded in 1998 by restaurateurs Paul Fleming and Bill Allen, the first Fleming’s opened in Newport Beach, California. Their vision was to create a unique steakhouse experience with an emphasis on generous hospitality, an inviting atmosphere and the very finest aged USDA Prime beef. In addition to inspired service and expertly prepared Prime Steak, they also focused on an exceptional selection of wines. The Fleming’s 100® — is there award-winning collection of 100 wines by the glass. Fleming’s is also part of Bloomin’ Brands, one of the world’s largest casual dining companies, which also owns and operates Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Roy’s Restaurant. The menu is extensive and their wine list is one of the best I have ever found. Presented to guests on a tablet, you are able to peruse the wines, look at the parings and find out information on the vineyards. Surfing the net has never been so fun. For those who have a passion for wines and good cuts of meat, Flemings is the perfect choice. But they have a full menu that has choices from seafood and poultry to vegetarian options. The appetizers we tried that were exceptional were the sweet chile calamari and the jumbo lump crabcakes. But even before the appetizers hit the table; the hot bread served with a duo of spreads got your appetite growing. But it was the hand-cut steaks that highlighted the meal. We tried three different options all were delicious. The first was the peppercorn steak which is a prime New York strip with a peppercorn outer shell, giving the meat the right hint of flavor without being overpowering. I had the dry-aged prime ribeye with the poached lobster tail finished off with caviar and béarnaise sauce. The last steak we tried was the filet mignon paired with crabmeat stuffed shrimp. Each selection was cooked perfectly to our specifications. For sides, I recommend the sautéed mushrooms and the rosemary and garlic and cipollini onions. From appetizer to dessert, the meal was outstanding creating a very memorable dining experience. After dinner, the gay nightlife beckoned to us. We started at George’s Place located at 860 St. Louis Street very close to downtown right by the Belle of Baton Rouge Casino. George’s is a friendly neighborhood bar that was established in 1970. To classify this place as a neighborhood bar would be an injustice, it has so much to offer from a stage for drag performances to a nice outdoor patio area. The place was hopping with a variety of different styles of gay men from the hot twinks to the contingent of well-dressed lobbyists and politicos who look like they came in straight from the capital floor. The legislature is currently in session. Their staff was welcoming especially Chansley who was witty and very sociable. For anyone visiting Baton Rouge, George’s is definitely a great bar for social-
izing (and a little cruising). We then went to Splash which is a short distance from downtown at 2183 Highland Road. This large nightclub offers the best in dance music. There are several different areas as part of this bar for patrons to enjoy from the upstairs dance club which has a totally different vibe then the one below (On the night we visited, it was very Goth) to the pool table lounge. The drinks are good and the bartenders quick to get you a refill. The draw of this place is their dance floor which is expansive, perfect for large crowds and shows. Their lighting system accentuates the atmosphere of this high energy club. George’s and Splash are ideal choices for the LGBT traveler when visiting the city, both offering their own unique vibe. We headed back to the hotel and had a nightcap in our hotel bar. King’s Bar and Bistro located in the lobby of the Hotel Indigo is more than a hotel lounge. It is an open and airy space with talented mixologists serving tasty craft cocktails and standard libations. It was the impeccable ending to our evening of frivolity in the city. On Saturday we played tourist in downtown Baton Rouge, first walking to the Farmer’s Market located on Fifth and Main Streets. This is one of the largest farmer’s markets I have been to and extremely popular with residents and visitors alike. It is open only on Saturday from 8am to noon so it was a treat we were there for it. The driving force behind the market is to build a sense of community among farmers and consumers. The value of Louisiana’s rich culture steeped in food and farming motivated support from urban neighbors to eat locally and in season. They had everything from meats and seafood to plants, herbs, fruits and vegetables. Whether it is honey or homemade breads, this market has everything, and also has several little restaurants ideal for brunch. There was also a cooking demonstration happening. The Red Stick Farmers Market was formed in November of 1996 creating a link between locally owned family farms and food businesses in the Baton Rouge area. From the very first Market day, Red Stick Farmers Market became a favorite Saturday morning tradition where shoppers could build relationships with food producers. It was interesting talking to the chicken farmers supplying eggs to bee keepers. We also walked around the Capital Building grounds looking at the numerous magnolia trees and gardens. The police had a festival going on while we were there with high school bands performing. Once we finished our downtown stroll, we went for a little retail therapy at one of the city’s greatest shopping areas, the Mall of Louisiana. I know malls are passé, but this one is pretty impressive and has every store imaginable in it or near it. But Baton Rouge offers many outlets the Crescent City still is waiting to get. Two of them we made it a point to visit before returning home, Z Gallerie and Trader Joe’s. Z Gallerie is like a better design version of Pier One and Restoration Hardware. Trader Joe’s has Two Buck Chuck, must I say more. Needless to say, poor Beaux’s little Fiat was filled to the capacity when we returned. Definitely next time we visit, we need to take a bigger car. So when you look for close getaway from the craziness of New Orleans, you do not have to go any further than our state’s capital. For more informa-
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houston
Curtis Braly Concert @ Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon ~ Houston, Texas
paparazzi
Offic ial Pride Guide© sinc e 1982 • NOLAPride.org • May 20-J une 2, 2014 • Facebook.COM/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.COM • 29
trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
Adventures in Wonderland in NOMA’s Sculpture Garden through May 25 If you don’t like inventiveness, if you don’t like magic, if you don’t like clever wordplay, if you don’t like inspired acting, if you don’t like razor-sharp direction reminiscent of a Rubik’s cube, if you don’t like being outdoors amidst world-class art, then please, please, please stay away from Adventures in Wonderland. There will be hundreds of others who will go and immensely enjoy The NOLA Project’s captivating production, one of the finest I’ve ever seen. Pete McElligott has adapted Lewis ated three separate plays. Each is 80 minCarroll’s original Alice texts with a free utes and occasionally overlaps the other hand that is at once loyal to the original but two; while seeing all three gives you the blends in McElligott’s own skewed per- richest experience, even just one offers spective along with contemporary refer- treats aplenty. The Fast Track allowed me ences (allusions to CAT Scans and W-2s to savor nearly all the characters with the pop up). It’s an always sharp but never exception of A.J. Allegra’s White Knight show-off-y new take on a classic. whom I saw only briefly; I hope to return to McElligott begins the tale with Lewis Wonderland and see at least one more of Carroll, benignly portrayed by a knowing the other tracks. Kyle Daigrepont, rowing around on the The Fast Track could also be called pond of the New Orleans Museum of Art’s “The Education of Alice” as she learns how Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture best to approach the upside-down world Garden with Alice and her two sisters, she’s landed in, where silliness rules and Esther and Carl. logic doesn’t always apply. Molly RubenThe entire audience views this scene Long makes a phenomenal Alice. Starting and, despite the loud chirping of birds, more off as a too smart child full of moral indignaimportantly, hears it. Kudos to actors who tion at anything that doesn’t make sense, know how to project without microphones! Ruben-Long grows into a young lady able >From there, audience members fol- to accept the world’s inanities and harness low one of three tracks which they signed them for her own uses. up for when purchasing tickets, each havIt’s a joy to watch the gears in Rubening a differently ascribed pace. Long/Alice’s mind subtly shift as she emYou can choose the Mad Hatter’s Sit- braces a new paradigm for how to apDown Tea Party which focuses on Carl proach life. And what bliss to be beside her (Becca Chapman), the youngest of the as she wittily ad-libbed when a shoe fell off three sisters entranced by all things mon- as she scampered along the Garden path. ster-related, who stumbles upon the Mad (The rest of the cast equals Ruben-Long in Hatter and March Hare in search of a third the ad-lib department; when one actor to complete their party. Or there’s the Red knocked over a light, another drolly comQueen’s Walking Track, a medium-paced mented “There goes a million dollars.”) journey through Wonderland, in which Alice is guided by the Cheshire Cat, or Esther, the eldest sister (Kyle June Will- rather two incarnations of him, played by iams), and the brave but absent-minded Ross Britz and Dylan Hunter as a deliWhite Knight incite a revolution in Wonder- ciously louche bon vivant who’s recently land. been tossing pots and pans at the Duchess’ I, however, chose the Cheshire Cat’s baby. Andrew Larimer’s astute direction fast track and wound up following, and has Britz pop up behind you with precision sometimes running after, Alice through Won- timing just as Hunter exited in front of you. derland as she searched for the culprit who At times, I found it a challenge to tell them stole the Red Queen’s tarts. apart, so in synch are they with the McElligott has hence essentially cre- conceptualization of the Cat. They form as magical a tag team act as has ever graced under the gaydar ...from 28 a stage. Larimer’s return to the Garden, after tion on the city and things to do, go to his fantastic Midsummer Night’s Dream, www.visitbatonrouge.com. the NOLA Project’s debut there, is extremely satisfying as subsequent productions have been merely good (As You Like To Quote A Queen In celebration of the Saints and Sin- It) or less so (Much Ado About Nothing). ners Literary Festival that was just in New His precise intertwining of the three tracks Orleans, I thought I would share with you is nothing short of masterful, and magnifisome quotes from a very noteworthy gay cently captures the loopy madness of the celebrant and author, who always had tale. Throughout the show, Larimer avoids something to say. I am talking about none simple cartoonishness as he and his cast other than the wonderfully bitter, Truman bring these iconic characters to life. Thus Capote. Known for such famous novels as while Chris Carrington’s doofusly pompous In Cold Blood and Breakfast At Tiffany’s, Mock Turtle constantly embellishes how Capote was never at a loss for words, so Alice should address him (Mr. + Prof. + Dr.), enjoy some of his better lines. “I don’t care what anybody says about it’s clear that this comes from an underlying insecurity as he justifies his degree with “an me as long as it isn’t true.” online Ph.D. from the University of Arizona ”All literature is gossip.” “Failure is the condiment that gives is still a Ph.D.” Carrington’s low-key delivery merely makes him more intimidating...for success its flavor.”
a while. Addressing the figures of George Segal’s Three People on Four Benches along with some audience members who have joined the “class,” Carrington reminded me of some teachers I once had. Similarly, Carlos Velasquez give us a Humpty Dumpty desperately trying to fit in, a social climber afraid of being left out. Eschewing any similarity to W.C. Fields’ famed portrayal in the 1933 Alice in Wonderland film, Velasquez (along with Williams’ Esther/Red Queen in her scenes) provides emotional resonance in a work that typically becomes too cerebral, giving this production a depth other Alice’s have lacked. Others adding to the vertiginous merriment of Adventures include Jake Bartush’s White Rabbit whom we encounter along the way in seemingly little dramas of his own; Lynae Leblanc’s ditzy yet elegant White Queen; Kristin Witterschein’s put-upon Duchess who reminded me a bit of Mrs. Lovett; the divinely mod Mad Hatter and March Hare of Alex Martinez Wallace and Keith Claverie (who are more prominently featured in the Tea Party Track); and Price Provenzano and Cammie West’s hammy vaudevillians Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum. This production also gives audiences the rare opportunity to perceive NOMA’s superb sculpture collection in a new way. After Alice drinks a potion and shrinks, we follow her to Coosje van Bruggen and Claes Oldenburg’s Corridor Pin, Blue whose immense size all of a sudden makes perfect sense. Likewise, Louise Bourgeois’ large Spider, here renamed “Bartholomew,” is the just-right companion for Eric Thielman’s helpful Caterpillar. Alice’s comments about some of the sculptures she passes by are priceless and very funny. Cecile Covert and Chris Arthur’s costumes conjure up a menagerie of hares, turtles, mice, queens, hatters, and all sorts of other creatures, including little girls, with the utmost of imaginative flair; the smile they came up with for the Cheshire Cat will certainly bring a grin to your face. And as befits a show predicated on silliness, one never knows what can happen as a gorgeous dusk settles over the Sculpture Garden. The night I saw Adventures, as the Mock Turtle instructed his class, a gondola floated by on the pond with a gondolier steering an archetypically Middle American, middle-aged couple mostly oblivious to the Adventures in Wonderland krewe. It was a surreal moment that I suspect Lewis Carroll would have thoroughly appreciated.
Death of a Salesman at Le Petit through May 24 Maybe it was because it was the first public performance. Maybe it was because there was a nasty rainstorm going on outside and we could hear the thunder in the theater. Maybe it was because, perhaps due to the thunderstorm, the theater was about half empty. But I think there were other reasons as to why Le Petit’s production of Death of a Salesman fell so flat. I suspected we were in trouble the moment I entered the auditorium. There was David Raphel’s standard issue, realistic set of the Lomans’ home—two bedrooms and a kitchen area circa late 1940s. And what followed was just as standard issue. Which is not to say this was a bad production; its three hours were certainly
intelligently done. But as has been the case with too many recent presentations of American classics in New Orleans, Director Amy Holtcamp’s version of Salesman brought nothing new to the table. Sadly, this production, devoid of any fresh interpretative approach, could just as easily have been done ten, twenty or even fifty years ago. And it seemed as though the actors knew it. George Sanchez (Willy Loman), Mary Pauley (his wife Linda), Garrett Prejean (older prodigal son Biff), and Chris Marroy (younger son Happy) are all fine, experienced thespians. Nothing they did was wrong. But you got the sense that they were just marking time, waiting for the big emotional outbursts at the end of each act. Because, other than Linda Loman’s “Attention must be paid” speech and the confrontation between Willy and Biff in Act Two, both of which were gripping, there were no sparks at all on Le Petit’s stage. For this, the blame rests solely with Holtcamp. In her telling of Arthur Miller’s awardwinning play, it almost seemed like the show was more about Willy’s incipient dementia than a probing examination of shattered illusions. References are made to over-building in the Lomans’ neighborhood, but we never feel it affecting them organically. That Biff, a 34-year-old, is still finding himself continues to resonate, but when Papa Willy scoffs at the possibility of Biff becoming a carpenter, you can’t help but think “Whoa, carpenters (and plumbers and air conditioning repairmen) make very good money these days.” In this way, Petit’s Salesman feels dated and wan. Sure, employers continue to take advantage of employees, maybe even moreso now. Bosses always want more from their workers and reward them when they measure up accordingly (well, sometimes). Salesman can thus be seen as a tragedy about an ordinary man who couldn’t change and adapt to new times. But Willy can also be a blowhard and a shmuck and a philanderer and someone who can simply wear out your patience. He did mine with all his blather about his half-assed plans and people not appreciating him after all he had done for them. Rather than come up with a new spiel or whatever it takes to sell his wares, he berates his wife for conscientiously trying to pay the bills while meeting the challenge of finding new lines of credit for her family. I bring this up to show that Holtcamp could’ve done something new with Salesman, perhaps make Willy a true anti-hero, anything to infuse new life into it. Miller’s jumping around in time and Willy’s chimerical sequences with his adventurer brother Ben (a sturdy Ron Gural) simply don’t seem as dramaturgically revolutionary as they must have been at the premiere in 1949. Willy’s belief in the “American Dream,” in our post-Great Recession world, simply comes off as childishly naive. And Miller’s use of the American West,Alaska, and the “African Jungle” as symbols of potential success, with no accompanying design constructs to underline what they might once have been, now merely conjure up failed farms and Las Vegas glitz, Sarah Palin and the Exxon Valdez disaster, and petty dictators and ruthless genocide, respectively. I could go on. But let’s just say that while “Death of a Cubicle Worker” doesn’t have the same zing as this 65-year-old Pulitzer Prizewinner’s given name, a production that takes into account the current reality (or current approaches to stagecraft) might better reflect those who now hope to fulfill the American Dream. [Correction to my previous column: The unseen band in The Andrews Brothers is led by Jay Hagen; Jesse Reeks was the vocal musical director. Both did a fantastic job.]
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NEXT Ambush DEADLINE Wednesday, Feb. 13 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com Offic ial Pride Guide© sinc e 1982 • NOLAPride.org • May 20-J une 2, 2014 • Facebook.COM/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.COM • 33
a community within communities
by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
Memorial Day Shrouded in mystery, ripped apart by political parties, pulled by claims of origins the story unfolds. Some in the Southland describe the birthing of Memorial Day as a Confederate Widows invention. Others claim it was first promoted by African Americans celebrating “the second American Revolution” and still others claim the holiday to have originated, at my last count, in ten different townships in north and south. Again, shrouded in mystery and
myth the tradition of placing small flags on grave sides is a profound expression of honor, mourning, and loss. Memorial Day is NOT Veterans Day. Memorial Day is set aside for honoring the war dead. Pacifist or not, anti-war or not, these men and women should be remembered. Not to glorify war rather to acknowledge the consequences of war and to acknowledge the sacrifice of life given for fellow citizens. It is, after a
fashion, a secular “All Saints Day.” When one talks about military endeavors it is easy to overlook gay service personnel in the history of warfare. But let’s be clear there is very little new under the sun. Speculation or fact the following are believed to have been gay men or to have at least swung both ways: Baron Friedrich W. Augustus von Steuben a German General that was instrumental in the success of the first Continental Army in the American Revolution. Lt. Col. T.E. Lawrence aka Lawrence of Arabia was a noted author, writing The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, and a brilliant military mind who consolidated the Arab tribes during WWI. Other possible candidates include: Julius Caesar, King Richard the Lionheart, and Alexander the Great. Leonard P. Matlovich, do you know his name? Perhaps not and by strict interpretation he is not a victim of war and thus he is not honored, technically, during Memorial Day. But
maybe we should. Some would say that next to Harvey Milk he was the most important Gay man in the decade of the 1970's. He served in the U.S. Air Force. He was one of the earliest military men to ‘come out’ and he even appeared on the cover of Time Magazine on the September 8, 1975 issue. His coming out was traumatic for his mother and father but in the end his father said, “if can take it, I can take it.” Matlovich was discharged honorably October 1975. During this time he was also excommunicated not once but twice from his new found religious home The Mormon Church. Shortly after that he lost any faith that he had. After his discharge he remained dedicated to Gay rights and fought against the Anita Bryant scandals in Florida. Once on a visit to a cemetery in France he beheld the graves of Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas as well as “gay martyr” Oscar Wilde. He was then determined to erect a memorial in the U.S. to Gay advocates and martyrs. His dream was unfulfilled because in 1986 he manifested full blown AIDS. Yet, as his health degenerated he continued his Gay rights work. His final speech was given on the steps of the California State Capitol March 7, 1988. In he said: ...And I want you to look at the flag, our rainbow flag, and I want you to look at it with pride in your heart, because we too have a dream. And what is our dream? Ours is more than an American dream. It’s a universal dream. Because in South Africa, we’re black and white, and in Northern Ireland, we’re Protestant and Catholic, and in Israel we’re Jew and Muslim. And our mission is to reach out and teach people to love, and not to hate. Just a short time before his 45th birthday, on June 22, 1988 Leonard died yet another victim of AIDS and gross discrimination. His tomb sits in the Congressional Cemetery on the same row as J. Edgar Hoover. His name does not appear on the grave. His tombstone says: “When I was in the military, they gave me a medal for killing two men and a discharge for loving one.” Perhaps on this Memorial Day we can remember Leonard Matlovich, decorated war hero, fierce advocate for Gay rights and acceptance. Perhaps on this day we can find a cemetery and place a flag on a grave of a fallen soldier to symbolically remember men like Leonard, the untold hundreds of Gay men and women, who while in the closet provided for the future liberties of LGBT community. Memorial Day is not just an extra day off of work. It has a purpose and as a community we can define what that purpose is. We can honor men and women who fought hard against hatred like the holocaust wherein at least 100,000 identified Gays wore the pink triangle. Not one SS Official was ever tried at Nuremburg for crimes against homosexuals. Yet, men and women in the Armies and Navies fought against the darkness of Nazi Germany. That darkness tried to systematically eliminate Jews, Gypsies, and Gays from the face of Europe. A flag on a grave is so little to ask, a remembrance for those that died. Are you too young to remember any of this? Are you too young to remember Harvey Milk or Leonard Matlovich? Then surely you are too young to remember the Holocaust in Germany. Perhaps you are too young to remember the AIDS plague that swept across America killing hundreds if not thousands of lovers. By 1995 over 800,000 men women and children had contracted HIV/AIDS. Not until the past decade was any real treatment providing a curative effect. But surely you are too young to know or remember these things. If you are too young, then read, remember, and honor and mourn the loss of all those lives lost to injustice, lost to neglect, and lost to bigotry and hatred. Learn the stories appreciate the truth. Today, AIDS is not quite the threat it once was – they died for us. Today, we are slowly achieving marriage equality – they died for us. Today, we are acutely aware of genocide and respond – they died for us. Many churches now recognize the equality of all humans before God – they died for us. Find a grave and place a flag, have a moment of silence in the bar, pub, or restaurant, or even church, make it public – they died for us.
34 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.COM • May 20-J une 2, 2014 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide© sinc e 1982 • Sout her nDec adenc e.c om hernDec
Celebration of Life for Southern Decadence Grand Marshal I Frederick Wright @ The Corner Pocket, New Orleans (Photos by Rip Naquin)
Celebration of Life for Southern Decadence Grand Marshal I Frederick Wright @ Cutter’s, New Orleans (Photos by Paul Melancon)
Celebration of Life for Miss D (Dwight Byrd) in the French Quarter, New Orleans (Photos by Paul Melancon)
Celebration of Life for Zsa Zsa D’LaHor (John Martin) @ GrandPre’s, New Orleans (Photos by Rip Naquin)
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