2 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 3
THE OFFICIAL MAG
the "official" dish
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©
by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
The Pulse of the Gulf South Welcomes October This issue of Ambush Magazine welcomes October as your "pulse of the Gulf South" since 1982. And what a month it is including Gay History Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and National Bullying Prevention Month. > The LGBT community also celebrates National Coming Out Day on October 11, a Saturday this year. Why not take in some culture here in New Orleans, and head on over to Le Petit to catch the debut of Tony Award winner Joanna Gleason, and special guests Well Strung, The Singing Quartet that night at 7:30pm (see story below). > You can also make a difference by making an investment in the Louisiana LGBT community and look good doing it for the Louisiana Equality Foundation T-Shirt Drive. It is an all volunteer organization that was formed in order to educate and provide community action and to support activities, programs, and services that increase visibility and public awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues and to provide essential resources that benefit the health and well-being of the LGBT community in Louisiana. All proceeds from the t-shirt drive benefits the campaigns and events associated with the Louisiana Equality Foundation. Visit https:// www.booster.com/louisianaequalityfoundation, and purchase your t-shirt for only $20. Deadline is October 10, so get your t-shirts today. > From Baton Rouge to New Orleans, you won't want to miss some of this month's highlights. You can catch the Louisiana return of America's Drag Superstar Bianca Del Rio in her home town appearing at Splash Baton Rouge, 2183 Highland Road, on Sunday, October 19 with doors opening at 6pm. Pre-sale tickets available now including the VIP Meet & Greet party at www.SplashBR.com (see ad on page 25). > In New Orleans, it's none other than the city's own Varla Jean Merman on Bourbon (and half a Xanax) one night only at Oz, 800 Bourbon Street, on Thursday, October 16 at 8pm. Buy your tickets at www.OzNewOrleans.com today. > It is also New Orleans' first "NOLA Leather To Geaux" weekend celebrating everything leather October 17-19 with events at Olde Town Inn, Rawhide, Phoenix, Eagle, Bourbon Pub & Parade, and Cafe Lafitte in Exile. Visit http:// nolaleathertogeaux.wordpress.com/ for more info. > This month is not complete without celebrating Oktoberfest where you will find Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Good Friends Bar and Rawhide 2010 throwing their annual celebration on Saturday, October 18. There are specials on select Oktoberfest beers and Jagermeister, plus German food at Rawhide, and authentic food from the Black Forest at Lafitte's. > And the biggest weekend of the month is Halloween XXXI benefiting Project Lazarus October 23-26. Ambush Mag is a proud sponsor of this event for over two decades. It kicks off on Thursday with The Lazarus Ball (black tie preferred) at the US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center at WWII from 7:30-11pm with silent auction, music by Groovy 7, and food. Friday is Neon Underground, the casual dance club night at Republic Nightclub from 9pm-2am featuring DJ Blacklow with Host and Patrons VIP Lounge. Saturday is DESCENT, the main event costume contest and parade, and massive dance party with DJ Tristan Jaxx at Marigny warehouse space, 2121 Chartres Street, from 10pm-4am with Host and Patrons VIP Lounge. Sunday is Paradise Brunch and Second Line at the House of Blues from 1-4pm with Jazz and Gospel entertainment followed by a second line from HOB to Official Bar Sponsor Oz, 800 Bourbon Street at St. Ann. Visit www.HalloweenNewOrleans.com for more info or see ad on page 14.
Gleason, Tony-Winner for “Into the Woods” opens Broadway in New Orleans Season with special guests Well-Strung, October 11 The collective Broadway in New Orleans series, now in its third season, will welcome the debut of Joanna Gleason, Tony-winner for “Into The Woods,” and star of film’s “Boogie Nights,” and “The Wedding Planner,” on Saturday, October 11 at Le Petit Theatre, 616 St. Peter Street. Presented by Broadway @ Le Petit and Mark Cortale Productions, Gleason will be joined by special guests Well-Strung, The Singing String Quartet for one show only on at 7:30pm. For tickets, visit www.broadwaynola.com. Joanna Gleason won the Tony Award for her leading role of the Baker’s Wife in “Into The Woods,” by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine. She made her Broadway debut in 1977’s “I Love My Wife,” for which she won the Theatre World
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
Joanna Gleason @ Le Petit Award. In addition to her Tony-winning performance in “Into the Woods,” she also appeared on Broadway in “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” Tom Stoppard’s “The Real Thing,” Peter Nichols’ “A Day in the Death of Joe Egg,” “Nick & Nora,” and “The Cartells.” Her film appearances include Woody Allen’s “Hannah and Her Sisters” and “Crimes and Misdemeanors,” “Heartburn,” “Boogie Nights,” “The Wedding Planner,” “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” “F/X2,” “The Boys,” “Fathers and Sons,” “The Good Wife,” and “The Pleasure of Your Company.” She is perhaps best known in film and television for her roles in the film “Sex and the City” as Amanda and Steve’s marriage counselor, and on NBC’s “Friends” as Rachel’s boss. Well-Strung, the Singing String Quartet have quickly gained national and inter-
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 Frank Joseph, Paul Melancon THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Johnny Joseph Delgadillo, Frank Joseph, Charles Jenkins, Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkey, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans Bob Brunson, MIss Cie & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL 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 INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation
Well Strung national attention for their unique mashup of string quartet and boy band, as featured in their break-out music video ‘Mozart meets Kelly Clarkson.’ The four-
[continued on 8]
Giant Halloween out Oct. 21 DEADLINE: Oct. 14
inside celebrazzi moments in gay new orleans history under the gaydar halloween xxxi snap paparazzi/new orleans snap paparazzi/new orleans trodding the boards mobile paparazzi wear it out spotlight feature/princess di auction
some features classical musicians who sing, putting their own spin on the music of Mozart, Beethoven, Ravel, U2, Miley Cyrus, One Direction, Madonna and more.
6 8 8 14 16 18 20 22 24 24
classifieds 26-27 a community within communities 28 commentary/ncis new orleans 28 the legal corner 29 obituary/richard "chris" yeager 29 book review 30 out front 30 new orleans biggest... 31 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 32 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 34
Gulf South LGBT Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com
4 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 5
celebrazzi
Skyy Vodka State Manager Shawn Murphy (LA/OK/MS/AL), Skyy Senior Brand Manager Jason Daniels, and Skyy Marketing Kate Bradbury join Country Club GM Bert McComas for Louisiana's "Toast To Marriage" campaign at The Country Club in New Orleans. Skyy Vodka joined Freedom to Marry to host the national campaign to draw together communities to increase visibility and raise funds to support public education programs in places where same-sex couples are currently excluded from marrying. What a great turnout! Participants were treated to photos by Polite in Public photographer Mike Chandler direct from San Francisco, t-shirts, Skyy bags, I-Phone cases, and Skyy's signature cocktail the "Proposal." Photo by Rip Naquin. (www.ToastToMarriage.com)
Dining Manager Tony Ceratti, Marketing Director Kristen Bradley, GM Bert McComas, Chef Mayjane Rosas, and Bar Manager Drew Kingswell welcome all to the Louisiana "Toast To Marriage" event hosted at The Country Club in New Orleans by Skyy Vodka and Freedom to Marry. Photo by Polite in Public's Mike Chandler from San Francisco. (www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com)
Tip Varnadore (aka Electra City) and Gary Delaune (aka Tittie Toulouse) were married in Central Park on September 20, 2014 in NYC celebrating their 20th anniversary by the Rev. Annie Lawrence. Following the celebration in NYC, the couple honeymooned in Paris, Belgium and Amsterdam. They are proprietors of The Four Seasons & Patio Stage Bar in Metairie, Louisiana.
6 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 7
moments in gay new orleans history by Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
“Pop-Up Lesbians: GrrlSpot” The gay bar as we have traditionally understood it is evolving. Years ago before gayness became publicly visible and most closet doors were firmly shut, the role of the gay bar was monumental in the lives of gay folk. It is difficult these days for young Friends of Dorothy to imagine a world with no social/sex networking sites, no gay characters on television (or gay themed shows for that matter), no rainbow bumper stickers on cars. The threat of being arrested merely for being gay is incomprehensible to them. They never knew a world where gayness was invisible. But that world did exist. It was a world of darkness for LGBT+ folk, a world where their core beings and true identities were hidden. In that world of false realities and double-lives, the gay bar afforded gays and lesbians a rare opportunity to be themselves. But that world is no more. And as society has evolved, so has the gay bar. As the public grew more tolerant, the role of gay bars shifted from hidden refuge to just one more public space for gayness. This paradigm shift has had significant consequences. Straight people often permeate gay bars, so much so it’s hard to tell the bar is “gay.” And lesbian bars, once ubiquitous, are virtually extinct. In New Orleans, which was once the scene of a thriving lesbian bar scene, there are no more lesbian bars. While the dissolution of the rigid boundary between gay and straight is
ultimately, probably, a good thing, it does complicate the issue of “queer space.” Despite all the progress society has made in its attitudes toward LGBT+ folk, American society is still predominantly heteronormative; which is to say it privileges straight-ness over queerness. Hence, the need for queer spaces persists. Enter GrrlSpot. GrrlSpot is a popup lesbian & queer bar, open to all people regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. The group popsup monthly, creating its own lesbian / queer space, all over New Orleans. Since 2006, GrrlSpot has made its presence known at bars all over the city. Shortly after Katrina, Cordelia (Cordi) Heaney and a friend were sitting at Pal’s Lounge in Mid-City talking about how there were no lesbian bars in the City. Cordi knew of a group in Washington DC that would do a guerrilla-style bar take over, once a month.
the "official" dish ...from 4 They are Edmund Bagnell (first violin), Christopher Marchant (second violin), Daniel Shevlin (cello), and Trevor Wadliegh (viola). Gleason's performance will be followed by Cheyenne Jackson - star of TV’s “30 Rock” and “Glee” and Broadway’s “Damn Yankees” on November 7; Ana Gasteyer - star of NBC’s “Saturday Night Live,” ABC’s “Suburgatory” and Broadway’s “Wicked” on March 28th, and Christine Ebersole two-time Tony-winning star of Broadway’s “Grey Gardens” and “42nd Street,” on May 23, all at NOCCA and featuring Seth Rudetsky at the Piano. For tickets please visit www.broadwaynola.com or call 800.838.3006. For fans that wish to see all of the Broadway @ NOCCA and Broadway @ Le Petit lineup of stars this season, the series provides the opportunity to reserve those seats with its Season Pass. It guarantees Season Pass holders the best seats available, ‘front-of-the-line’ access, and an overall savings of $100 off of the regular ticket price when the full lineup is purchased individually.
They adopted it as their model and advertised the first GrrlSpot on Craigslist and a couple email listservs. The first GrrlSpot was held at Pal’s on February 4th, 2006. About 15 women attended that first get-together. Now, eight years later, the monthly gatherings draw in an average of 150 to 200 women. Originally, the group would just show up at a bar or club. Now, because of the numbers GrrlSpot draws, the group notifies bars ahead of time. Most bar owners welcome the business, but a few have told the group to stay away. Two years ago the manager of the Shamrock in Mid-City told the group, “We don’t want your kind here.” That kind of homophobia underscores the lingering need for queer spaces. This need raises an important question: In light of the long history of lesbian bars in New Orleans, why don’t lesbians support a bar of their own? Christine Johnson, one of the Directors of GrrlSpot, speculates, “The market is just different now. 40 to 50 years ago queer people didn’t feel comfortable being out. The lesbian bars were their only space . . . the lgbt community is more visible now . . . the need for that space has diminished. We can now go to lots of places and be visible.” She also adds, “Lesbians want to go out less often.” One of GrrlSpot’s biggest events occurs on the Saturday of Southern Decadence weekend. “Fleurt” is annual party and show featuring Bella Blue, a nationally known burlesque performer based in New Orleans. In addition to performing at venues around the country, Bella Blue is also the Headmistress of the New Orleans School of Burlesque. For the last two years “Fleurt” has been held at the Eiffel
Society. This year roughly 600 people attended “Fleurt.” Emily Rey, who serves on the Board of Directors of the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, recalls meeting her husband Sebastian Rey, who is the Director of the LGBT Community Center of New Orleans, at “Fleurt”: “Sebastian and I met at the Southern Decadence 2011 GrrlSpot party, Fleurt. I was visiting from NYC where I was in graduate school; being from North Carolina I wanted the chance to see a Southern LGBTQ event. Sebastian was working on the burlesque show at Fleurt, ‘panty wrangling’—picking up the clothes off the stage after each performer. He had come to the party and was friends with most of the performers from his burlesque days. I saw him working backstage and a mutual friend introduced us. We hit it off right away and had a wonderful evening. We stayed in touch after I went back to NYC and eight months later we were engaged and I moved to New Orleans.” Emily and Sebastian’s experience is just one of many success stories GrrlSpot has engendered. GrrlSpot Director Christine Johnson observes, “GrrlSpot is today’s lesbian bar; we are the lesbian bar of the 21st century, accepting of all people across every spectrum, representative of the diversity of today’s LGBTQ+ community. Our purpose is to create safe spaces for all queer people to socialize, network, meet new and old friends, singles, couples, and everyone in between. And of course, to and have a great time.” For more information on GrrlSpot, please visit the group’s website at http:/ /www.grrlspot.com/ or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/grrlspot.
under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham
Bartender of the Month Fall is here, so the busy season is once again upon us as the holidays quickly approach. With that being said, I could not help but get a last blast of summer, so I took a quick weekend jaunt to Pensacola for a little fun in the sun. Relaxation on the beach and cocktails in the evening was just what the doctor ordered. Of course, no trip to Pensacola would be complete without a visit to my favorite watering hole Emerald City. It is here that I found several guys who were perfect candidates to be recognized in this column. Zach Binkley, originally from Orlando, works the front bar and he is basically your first point of contact with an employee other than the doorman and what a fabulous first impression he makes. He has a sharp sense of humor tempered with a good attitude and snappy repartee. Add [continued on 10]
8 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Bartender of the Month Zach Binkley Emerald City, Pensacola
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 9
under the gaydar ...from 8 to this a Hollywood smile, dreamy eyes and a rocking body, mix and shake well and you have the ingredients of a wonderful bartender. Looking pass his obvious physical attributes, Zach is a powerhouse behind the bar. It was Drink and Drown the night I was there and the place was crowded. These types of promotions are fun but afford little to no opportunity to connect with a bartender. Zach managed to handle the crowd effortlessly and still socialize with people. He is a fresh face with his surfer boy golden locks and his free spirit approach to handling the clientele. One can see how he is already a local favorite after a few short months. With Zach greeting guests as they first enter, he sets the tone for the night and is an ideal ambassador for that position. It also helps when he is working in his underwear. He has the most amazing tattoo on his lower abdomen right above his underwear line which is worth driving to Pensacola just to read. Zach is just one of the many reasons why Emerald City is one of my preferred choices to go when I am in the area. So the next time you head over to Pensacola, go see Zach and order a sex on the beach (or any sexy beach libation you like). Zach is sure to whip it up with delightful flair. Emerald City is located at 406 East Wright Street.
Varla on Bourbon on Bourbon Street Varla Jean Merman, legend of stage and screen, is back in New Orleans again on Bourbon Street this time as OZ NEW ORLEANS presents Varla Jean Merman On Bourbon (And Half A Xanax). Join Varla as she wows you with her comedic style and talented voice on Thursday, October 16. Tickets for this wonderful show are $20 for theatre seating and $12 for standing room and may be ordered online. Showtime is 8pm. For more information or to order tickets, go to Oz’s Facebook page or http:// ozneworleans.com/purchase.html.
Leather is the New Black Oct. 17-19 Orange may be the new black in other parts of the United States but October 17 – 19 it is all about the leather as the city welcomes “NOLA Leather to Geaux,” a leather weekend where the leather community will have
the unique experience of being out and about in our fun-loving and permissive city. This year the host hotel is The Olde Town Inn, only one block from one of the great leather bars in New Orleans: The Phoenix Bar (and the very dimly lit Eagle upstairs). The list of events is still growing, but the $100 weekend package will include happy hour prices at the Phoenix for the entire weekend and the following activities: FRIDAY, 10/17: —Registration at the Olde Town Inn from 6pm - 9pm with a cocktail party, T-shirts, and a run pin —Rawhide 2010 will be sponsoring the party and will be providing hot dogs, chili, and fixings. NOLA PAH (Pups & Handlers) also will be with us for this party and hosting a pup mosh. (Okay I am not sure what this is, but I have some doggie treats that I am going to bring with me and see what follows me home. My dog just loves those Beggin’ Strips) —10pm Social at the Rawhide 2010, the French Quarter’s famous leather bar SATURDAY, 10/18: —Walking Tour of French Quarter at 11am (included with weekend pass); other sightseeing options available at additional charge —Beer Bust party and a BBQ at the Phoenix, 2pm-5pm —Private Party for weekend pass holders upstairs at the Eagle, 2-5pm —Dance party with DJ at Parade Disco, 10pm —No door charge at Rawhide 2010 for weekend pass holders SUNDAY, 10/19: —Brunch, 11am-1pm —Afternoon/evening Pub Crawl in the Marigny and French Quarter (stops TBA), working up to the weekly Napkin Toss at Cafe Lafitte in Exile To register for the weekend, please indicate your t-shirt size, fill in the form, and pay through PayPal at: http:// nolaleathertogeaux.doattend.com/. For the most up-to-date information and online registration, see their website at http:// nolaleathertogeaux.wordpress.com/.
Armeinius’ Celebrates German Culture With Pizzaz Oct. 18 New Orleans applauds our German heritage proudly as we enter the month of October with many fetes honoring one of the cultures that makes our city the unique melting pot it is. But no one has embraced this holiday more than the Krewe of Armeinius who is hosting their particular version of the famous month long soiree with Cocktoberfest on Saturday, October 18 from 7 – 10pm. Lots of beer, check; husky beer wenches (read between the lines dudes in dresses), check; sausage galore (both on and off the
buffet), check; there is everything you can ever want to make this party a huge success. That’s why this event is billed the most fabulously strange Oktoberfest in New Orleans. Even the lovely German lass Lola may actually be making an appearance. You know she is a true die hard when it comes to scarfing down sausage. Your ticket for a mere $30 gets a bottomless beer garden (with your own custom stein), fun German themed entertainment and a delightful dinner. Since the event has grown the past couple of years, Cocktoberfest is now going to be celebrated in its new location of 433 N. Broad St. in Mid-City (located right off the Greenway). This event goes to benefit the Krewe of Armeinius and the Gay Historical Preservation Society and is truly an event that is a smash for everyone 21 and up. Come help preserve some of the most unique traditions while enjoying a rooster filled evening of fun. For more information, check the krewe’s Facebook site or go to www.armeinius.org.
Amon-Ra Dishes Up Gumbo Oct. 19 The Krewe of Amon-Ra is presenting their delectable Gumbo Cook-off event on Sunday, October 19 starting at noon at the Golden Lantern. Join this wonderful group of guys as they present some of the best gumbos around from chicken and Andouille to seafood as well as a few exotic options, there is plenty to go around. The cost is only $10 to taste and dine, and $25 to enter your own specialty gumbo dish. Show off your inner Paula Dean or Leah Chase, you could win $100 and stay and enjoy the Saints vs. Detroit Lions game. The Golden Lantern is located at 1239 Royal Street.
Party Down My event calendar is quickly filling up with the approach of the holidays and from the looks of things, it is going to be a full slate of events. The fall season seems like one endless cocktail party and is not for the weak of heart (and liver), so here goes. My week started on Tuesday when I attended the grand opening of the new CrescentCare Health and Wellness Center at 3308 Tulane Avenue. The facility located in Mid-City brings patient-centered health and wellness services to the traditionally underserved populations that need them most: the foodservice and hospitality industry, the LGBT community and residents in neighborhoods that have limited access to healthcare facilities. Guests got to tour the facility, meet physicians and clinical staff, and learn more about services and sign up for health and wellness appointments. The complex is beautifully designed with a very open look and inviting atmosphere. It is not what one thinks of when you say the
word clinic; in fact they like to refer to the facility as a medical center. The new center offers primary care for adults, primary care in pediatrics for children and families, specialized care for the LGBT community, behavioral health, case management, HIV/AIDS and STD services and support, and infectious disease consultation. The center will soon be adding expanded services, including: dental services; nutritionist consultations; a clinical pharmacist; OB/GYN services; transgender care; Hepatitis C treatment; health education; health prevention and counseling; employment counseling; skillbuilding classes; a PrEP clinic; and medication assistance. CrescentCare has evolved from the clinical work and health outcomes provided through NO/ AIDS Task Force, which will retain all of its programs and services as a division of CrescentCare. NO/AIDS recognized a need for offering healthcare services beyond the scope of HIV and AIDS; its extension into community-based, primary healthcare services began in 2008 when the Board recognized that many of the same barriers to care that existed for individuals and families living with and coping with HIV/AIDS also existed in the broader community. For more information, visit http:// crescentcarehealth.org/. The following day, I celebrated my mother Dawn’s birthday at one of the best kept dining secrets in the French Quarter, Café Amelie. From the cuisine which was just spectacular to the service (our waiter was gorgeous), this restaurant is outstanding. I could not have chosen a better place to celebrate my mother turning 72 years young. But Friday was my day to “Wear My Sunglasses At Night” on “Electric Avenue” with my “Uptown Girl” riding in a “Pink Cadillac.” Okay, enough of the 80’s musical references. My friends and I attended one of the hottest parties of the year when we went to Ryan Delaney’s The Eighties Strikes Back Party Episode III. I cannot tell you how much fun this party was; it even had an
oversized Stay Puff Marshmallow Man blow up figure in the kitchen. Every attention to detail was met from the cookies in the shape of Pac Man Characters to the movie posters on the wall of the decade; this was a special night for all who attended. I thoroughly enjoy
10 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
[continued on 12]
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 11
under the gaydar ...from 10 a party where the guests get into the spirit of the festivities fully. Almost everyone wore a costume; I was Boy George Karma Chameleoning all over the place. There was a disco in the den where they played Eighties dance music complete with a large screen television showing the videos of the songs. In the bedroom, Atari games were set up for guests to relive their youth by playing these nostalgic videos. And there was no shortage of hot men parading around in skimpy attire. Ryan you are the ultimate host, congratulations on a soiree well done. On Sunday, some friends and I got to Audubon Park early to participate in the 25th Annual NO/AIDS Walk. The weather was gorgeous for a leisurely stroll through the Uptown neighborhood. This year my group decided to make a celebration out of the walk in memory of our friends who have succumbed to this dreaded disease. So we pulled along a portable red ryder wagon that acted as a transport to my baby dachshund Rose (who is my old girl now) as well as a portable beverage station holding champagne, bloody marys and jello shots. Everyone was in great spirits and the crowd was pumped in anticipation of the Saints game that followed. Thank god we won. After the walk, we finished our afternoon watching the game at the Friendly Bar which is an excellent place to view the action. Every time the saints score the patrons getting pudding shots, yum! The following week began on Tuesday when my friend Tico and I went to dinner at Orleans Grapevine on OrleansAvenue in the Quarter and watched as they filmed a scene from NCIS New Orleans. It is so nice to see cop cars racing around the Quarter and not for a real crime, although from the unfortunate looks of things these days, this show will have lots of storylines to draw from in our city. We even had some of the hottie stars come in and have a bite while we were there. On Wednesday, local fashion designer Carolina Gallop hosted her fundraiser Fashion Designers and Artists United for Honduras at The Blue Nile located on Frenchman Street. Ranord Darensburg and I emceed the proceedings. It was a night of fashion, food and fun as designers Carolina Gallop, Jose Luis Rodriguez, John Delgadillo and Keno Koutoure strutted their lines on the runway with some fierce models. Female Impersonators Princesse Stephaney, Imani Nye Black and Raven Kennedy were also on hand giving some fashion pops of their own. It was quite the night. I love fashion shows, I do not think we have enough of these cutting edge performances in our city. I cannot wait to be a part of next year’s events. Preservation Hall, the city’s most renowned spot to experience jazz, held a hospitality party on Thursday cel-
ebrating 53 years in existence. The soiree had some excellent gourmet bites and a private concert by the Preservation Hall Band. Whether you are a local or a tourist, this historic music club has not lost its touch and still is magically making great music after many years. You can read about the remainder of my week in Ambush on the Road.
Ambush on the Road: Pensacola With the onset of the Fall I could not help put get one last summer fling in before the cool (or at least cooler) weather descends upon us. So I planned one last long weekend jaunt to Pensacola the last weekend in September. My friends Beaux and Barrett joined me on a little road trip leaving first thing Friday morning and driving to Pensacola Beach. We checked into the Hilton Pensacola Beach right in the heart of all the action. The hotel was gorgeous and we had a very spacious room with a balcony overlooking the Gulf. The moment we checked in, we met up with some other New Orleanians and off to the sunny beach we went. We frolicked in their beautiful white sand and played in the waves which were particularly strong this weekend. After a few hours, we returned to their pool and most of all, the hotel’s outdoor Tiki Bar. Now I am not saying that copious amounts of liquor were consumed, but many adult beverages were had by all. We even made quick friends with others staying in the hotel because one of our merry crew brought along an ice chest filled with jello shot syringes. We were popular girls. After several hours and a quick shower, we went to dinner at Shogun which is directly across the street from the Hilton. This hibachi restaurant was delicious and the staff behind the cooking station was a master chef. He flipped the food in our mouths and he was joking with us the entire time. The service was good and the seafood fresh. After dinner, some of us went for a late night walk on the beach and then crashed. The next day, it was cloudy so we decided to take a trek and explore one of the city’s biggest tourist attractions, The Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum. The lighthouse sits on an active military base, Naval Air Station Pensacola. So we were meandering around the grounds perusing all the military guys swimming on their private beach and jogging around the base. Screw African safaris, this is the best wildlife to watch in my opinion. But I digress. The lighthouse itself is just absolutely stunning, we climbed the 177 steps (which is 15 stories) up the historic structure to appreciate one of the most beautiful views on the Gulf Coast. The top of the tower offers stunning views of Pensacola Pass (where Pensacola Bay meets the Gulf of
Mexico), three forts, the Pensacola skyline and the historic Navy Yard. The fully restored Keepers’ Quarters, built in 1869, is home to a museum and a gift shop. This historic spot was one of America’s First Settlements, established in 1559. The lighthouse was built in 1859. The Richard C. Callaway Museum in the fully restored 1869 keeper’s quarters and offers local history exhibits including: Late Weeden Island culture, Presidio Santa Maria de Galve, first Pensacola Lighthouse and the villages of Warrington and Woosley. The Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Climbing the lighthouse steps was a thrilling experience because you are on a metal spiral staircase that you can see the entire way down, so when you are at the top, you can see 15 stories below you to the ground, sort of unnerving. After the lighthouse, we attended the 37th Annual Pensacola Seafood festival located downtown. There were lots of food booths from local restaurants, music, a kids’ area, cocktails and an entire art market. We spent several hours at one of the locals’ favorite festivals enjoying the great weather. Returned back to the hotel and once again enjoyed swimming on the beach, soaking up the rays and even more jello shots. Once we had finished for the day, we got ready for dinner and went to a great new restaurant called red Fish Blue Fish. This eatery epitomizes the beach lifestyle and now rates as one of my top dining choices in the city. The food is southern inspired cuisine made from fresh local ingredients. Their complete dining room is an outdoor veranda, so basically it is like eating in someone’s backyard with an incredible waterfront view. Known as having the best ‘backyard’ on the beach with two white sand beaches, covered and grassy dining areas, a kids play area, and a stylish cocktail bar. It was truly an outstanding place to watch the sunset. They get a bold 10 in atmosphere. The entrance is constructed with reclaimed planks from an old Coca Cola warehouse north of Pensacola and their unique furniture was built from re-purposed Asian boat wood. But the food is superior, their Brussel sprout, chicken burger is out of this world. After dinner, the boys and I splintered from our group and took a cab downtown to Emerald City, the hottest gay bar in Pensacola. This Saturday night was Drink and Drown (lucky us) which is when you pay $10 and you drink form 10pm to 1am. They actually lost money on our group. Emerald City is a large complex with actually two sides, one a dance club and the other a quieter area. There is also an outdoor patio bar and rooftop observation deck. The bartenders are all friendly and very quick with the cocktails. The dance floor is spacious and boasts two cages for which to dance above the crowd if you like the spotlight. There
were two shows this evening headlined by Lauren Mitchell. Other great performers this evening was Valerie Heart, Ebony Sinclair and Penny Holliday. But the main reason for this bar’s popularity is the boys and there are plenty of choices. With a military base so close by, it seems many of the officers come over to prove they are gentlemen. Basically we closed the place down then back to the hotel to crash. We ended our weekend on Sunday with brunch at the hotel’s restaurant H2O which is a superior dining establishment that gets high ratings with both locals and visitors alike. After we ate, it was back to the New Orleans with a brief pit stop in Biloxi for a little gaming therapy at the Golden Nugget. If you have not been to see their new renovations, make it a point to check them out. The place looks like Vegas and the pool area is breathtaking. So if you have not had a chance to travel to the Emerald City area of Pensacola, put it on your list. No matter what the weather is like, it is a great place to visit and the boys are always there come rain or shine.
To Quote a Queen October 11th is not only my birthday but also National Coming Out Day, go figure that. So I thought some great quotes from people about coming out would be a fantastic way to celebrate this day and provide support for all those still struggling in the closet. May they find the strength and happiness they so richly deserve. Enjoy. “Burst down those closet doors once and for all, and stand up and start to fight.” — Harvey Milk “This is our big chance to see what people think of us. The real us. We have to show em there’s nothing to be afraid of. If we don’t get over our fears, they never will.” — Lisi Harrison “In a perfect world, I don’t think it [one’s sexual orientation] is anyone else’s business, but I do think there is value in standing up and being counted.” — Anderson Cooper “Outing someone is like ripping a butterfly from its cocoon. You can damage them for life and rob them of THEIR life changing experience of liberation. For a successful emergence THEY have to struggle through the cocoon of fear and shame. THEN they can fly.” — Anthony Venn-Brown “Every gay person must come out. As difficult as it is, you must tell your immediate family. You must tell your relatives. You must tell your friends if indeed they are your friends. You must tell the people you work with. You must tell the people in the stores you shop in. Once they realize that we are indeed their children, that we are indeed everywhere, every myth, every lie, every innuendo will be destroyed once and all. And once you do, you will feel so much better” — Harvey Milk
12 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 13
14 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 15
Rawhide’s Post Southern Decadence Bar Crawl @ Rawhide Amoura & Billy @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile
Drunken Karaoke’s Darrius, Scott & Ken join DJ Chris Yeager Toast @ GrandPre’s
Golden Lantern Turnabout raises $450 for Southern Decadence 2015 Boyfriends Tom & Drew @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile
Behind the bar @ Golden Lantern Turnabout
”Toast To Marriage” with SKYY @ The Country Club
Voodoo gets a taste of Rawhide’s Post SD Bar Crawl
snap
Rawhide’s Post SD Bar Crawl lands @ Double Play
paparazzi
The debut of Goldie Lantern (aka James) & Nicholas @ Golden Lantern Turnabout
Bartenders Khryschian, Amon & Nicholas welcome you to Lafitte’s
Bar Baron James & bartender Jeff welcome guests to DJ Chris Yeager’s Celebration of Life @ The Golden Lantern
Cindy & bartender Steven join DJ Chris Yeager’s Celebration of Life @ Golden Lantern
”Toast To Marriage” Polite in Public photographer Mike Chandler @ The Country Club
What Rawhide Post SD Bar Crawl would be complete without a stop @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile
GM Greg Jones & manager Adrian welcome you to Oz
Bartender Will & Cha Cha @ The Double Play
A Toast to DJ Chris Yeager @ GrandPre’s
Dusty, sister Brook & Frankie @ Oz
16 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
La Scène Sociale (The Social Scene) ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin, Paul Melancon, Chris Ward
Alligator Ronnie - Shark Elizabeth attack @ Elizabeth Bouvier’s Chalmansion Last Splash Party
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 17
18 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
“Toast To Marriage” presented by SKYY & Freedomto Marry @ The Country Club ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Polite in Public’s Mike Chandler, San Francisco
Tip Varnadore & Gary Delaune Married @ Central Park on September 20, 2014 ~ New York City ~ Photos by Ellen Miller, Arthur Severio
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 19
trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
Contemporary Arts Center’s Performing Arts Season through May 29, 2015/An Iliad Under Neil Barclay’s direction, the Contemporary Arts Center is offering an eclectic Performing Arts Season filled with theater, music and dance. It is a welcome return after too many years when visual arts dominated this important space for creative endeavors. That the ancient art of story-telling lives on was evident in the season-opener An Iliad, Denis O’Hare and Lisa Peterson’s acclaimed reinterpretation of the classic tale by Homer. Holding the stage for 100 minutes in this one-man show, O’Hare ranged between the conversational and the blazingly oratorical as he related the push-and-pull between the Greeks and the Trojans in their long war. Focusing on the soldier-princes Hector and Achilles, O’Hare created a cinematic landscape that also featured the Gods in all their wiliness. Looking slightly shabby, say, one or two steps above a Waiting for Godot tramp, in Marina Draghici’s costume, O’Hare shrewdly interacted with the audience, drawing us into his narrative with a casual charm. If the play’s momentum slowed a bit during an extended section on Hector, it soon came thumping back to life with the introduction of Patroclus, Achilles’ friend and, possibly, his lover. Throughout, O’Hare superbly differentiated among the characters with slight changes in posture and voice; his Agamemnon was louche, Hermes was spry, and Achilles proud, powerful and not to be messed with. O’Hare was not the only person on stage, however. Bassist Brian Ellingsen played Mark Bennett’s evocative score with intensity adding another dimension to the stagecraft. Bennett’s phenomenal sound design, which caused echoes to emerge from thin air, and Scott Zielinski’s atmospheric lighting, a spectrum of whites, yellows and blues, demonstrated how much can be done within the confines of the CAC’s Freeport–McMoRan Theater. Peterson’s fluid direction imaginatively used the entire space, avoiding the trap of solo show static-ness. Her and O’Hare’s script is flexible enough to allow for some local references while, sadly, showing how little Man’s capacity for war and violence has changed in thousands of years. At An Iliad’s conclusion, O’Hare recites, with hypnotic concentration, a
Denis O'Hare in An Iliad (Photo Joan Marcus) list of wars from ancient times right up to the present. If we haven’t learned much since the Trojan War, hopefully the young kids in the audience, who sat through the entire show in rapt attention, will be able to do better in the future. The CAC’s season continues with, among others, Meshell Ndegeocello (Oct. 10), the Rude Mechanicals theater company (Nov. 20-22), Arturo Sandoval (Jan. 23), and drag icon Joey Arias singing the songs of Billie Holiday (Apr. 17). Should be quite a cultural odyssey!
New in New York The 2014-15 season has gotten off to a rousing start with revivals of Love Letters and This Is Our Youth and the West End import The Curious Incident of the Dog in the NightTime on Broadway, and some notable works off-Broadway (Scenes from a Marriage, Bedbugs!!!, and Dry Land written by a Yale undergraduate who just turned 21!). During a recent visit to the Big Apple, I saw three excellent productions and one, well, we’ll get to that later. First the good news. Robert O’Hara’s Bootycandy has been extended until October 19 at Playwrights Horizons and if you have a chance to see it, do not miss it! Starting out as a series of short
scenes reflecting the gay, black experience (and reminding me of George C. Wolfe’s incisive The Colored Museum), Bootycandy evolves into a self-portrait of an artist as a young man, as we come to understand that the character of Sutter is a stand-in for the playwright. Beginning as a pre-teenager who asks his mother what “blow job” and “period” mean (and not the kind of period that comes at the end of a sentence), Sutter finds himself in increasingly complicated situations. And not only because his Mommy instructs him to “pull your bootycandy back and wash.” His parents have bizarre reactions when he tells them that a man followed him home from the library. A three-way tryst in a hotel room turns toxic. There’s a strange and strained barroom encounter with his drunken brother-inlaw. Such descriptions, however, don’t capture O’Hara’s sharp satire. For Bootycandy is that rare play that balances wicked humor and scalding drama with perfect precision. O’Hara’s bold strokes of writing feature a surreal send-up of writers’ conferences with a clueless white moderator interrogating four African-American playwrights; two actresses portraying four women from the ‘hood, one of whom wants to name her newborn daughter “Genitalia”; and a reverend who preaches with granderthan-thou flawlessness but conceals another persona he’s ready to reveal. Bootycandy is not linear and it doesn’t spell it all out for you—amen for that! Rather, this biting exploration of self displays O’Hara’s fervent, probing mind that I hope we’ll hear a lot more from. On Clint Ramos’ exquisite revolving set, O’Hara directs with aplomb his brave cast, who collectively evince the requisite style for such material. O’Hara, however, might have brought in a dramaturg (or different director) to tone down an occasional preachiness and edit some excesses; I could’ve done with less of the “Unwedding” of the now-adult Genitalia and her soon-tobe ex, Intifada. Wearing Ramos’ inventive and outrageous costumes, the entire cast (Phillip James Brannon, Jessica Frances Dukes, Jesse Pennington, Benja Kay Thomas and Lance Coadie Williams) is great with Williams, going from the flamboyant preacher to Sutter’s Granny, simply extraordinary. I hope New Orleans shall see Bootycandy some day. New Orleans has certainly seen You Can’t Take It With You before, but even if you’re familiar with this evergreen from stage or the Oscarwinning movie, a visit to the Longacre Theater will provide bountiful pleasure. In Scott Ellis’ finely polished revival, the Sycamore clan is as wacky as ever with playwright/painter Mom, fireworks-making Dad, snake collecting
Grandpa, ballet dancer/candymaker Sis and her marimba-playing husband all orbiting around sane daughter Alice, who’s about to become engaged to the Boss’ son. Sure, Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman’s populist sentiment seems a little simplistic these days, but when their beautifully etched characters are fleshed out by a group of such accomplished actors, the results are beguiling, by the end leaving you with a lump in your throat and a big grin on your face. The magnificent James Earl Jones leads the cast bringing radiant warmheartedness to Grandpa Vanderhof. Jones never draws unwarranted attention to himself but proves to be a true ensemble player as well as a laudable comic actor. Kristine Nielsen as Mrs. Sycamore has a marvelous way with a line and knows just how daffy to make Penelope without going overboard. Rose Byrne’s Alice is a delightful combination of sweetness and toughness. And Annaleigh Ashford, who pirouettes across the stage to offer bonbons with overwrought ballet mannerisms, simply steals the show which is saying a lot when Elizabeth Ashley and Julie Halston are on-hand for delicious cameos. If the women are slightly more memorable than the men, it’s just because they have the showier roles; Byron Jennings, Patrick Kerr, Fran Kanz, Mark Linn-Baker, Reg Rogers and Will Brill certainly hold up their end of the proceedings. Scenic designer David Rockwell fabulously clutters the Sycamores’ Morningside Heights home with so much stuff it’s reminiscent of an overstuffed Bywater shotgun. With Director Ellis giving proper due to both the script’s dedicate emotions and farcical elements, there’s just one word to sum up this production, scheduled to run until January 4—wonderful! I’m not sure how to sum up the presentation of Macbeth by the quintet of merrymakers at Drunk Shalespeare but having seen the Scottish play many times over the years, this is undoubtedly the most fun version I’ve ever experienced. Taking place upstairs in a goodsized room above an Irish pub, Quinn’s Bar & Grill (356 W. 44 St.), Drunk Shalespeare offers a rotating cast of five performers who present a version of Macbeth mashed-up with Harry Potter, The Lion King, various cartoon characters and seemingly anything else that comes to mind, especially alcohol as one performer is dubbed the designated drinker at each show and has to down at least 5 shots of whiskey before the show’s start. And more after that. Performance challenges, improvisatory exercises and the best bunch of Banquo ghosts I’ve yet seen litter the
20 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
[continued on 22]
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 21
stage. Some rules apply to all this, but they’re enforced as much as in Alice in Wonderland’s croquet game. It helps if you know Macbeth, or vaguely remember it from high school, but that’s not really necessary as a synopsis is provided at the beginning. I was afraid that Drunk Shalespeare might be merely silly but it’s actually quite witty with a good deal of raunchy fun tossed in too. Just as importantly, these folks know their Shakespeare; when they launched into monologs straightforwardly, they did it with true talent and commitment. The result? The raucous room immediately quieted and became fully attentive. I happened to see four of the folks who have been with Drunk Shalespeare since it began (Josh Hyman, Whit Leyenberger, Christina Liu and Damiyr Shuford) plus one newcomer (Caitlin Morris) who had only been with the show for a week. As it turned out, this was the first time she was the designated drinker. Morris, a fairly petite young lady, was pretty amazing as she poured forth a Shakespearean monolog expertly after drinking a LOT. She also tap-danced while naming all the US Presidents for a wild and zany display. Leyenberger made a most worthy Thane, and later, King. Liu was a sexy Lady M while Shuford’s regal bearing was just right for the noble Macduff. Hyman, sharp on the uptake, was grandly loud as our host as well as those aforementioned cartoon characters. It’s all like watching a bunch of brainy class clowns who have finally found their metier. Director David Hudson has wellguided his crew, giving them leeway to have fun within the structured framework. And what with a well-lubricated bachelorette party in attendance, the cast did a fine job of keeping them and the rest of the rowdy audience under control. (I can only imagine what the 10pm Saturday crowd is like.) So if you’d like to hear “Out, damned spot!” in Mandarin and have some very good bar food and see Shuford take off his shirt exposing his 6-pack abs underneath, get thee to Drunk Shalespeare. Get thee to the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre if you’d like to see a luminous Blythe Danner head a topnotch cast on John Lee Beatty’s gorgeous country home of a set. But that said, despite some lovely moments, this Manhattan Theatre Club production of Donald (Dinner With Friends) Margulies’ The Country House is hardly must-see theater. A melancholic treatise on love, loss and longing inspired by Chekhov, particularly The Seagull and Uncle Vanya, its emotional level is like a pot that simmers but never boils. Danner plays the head of a theatrical family whose daughter died of
cancer a year earlier. She and assorted friends, relatives and in-laws, all decent but flawed people, have assembled in Williamstown where some will be taking part in the theater festival there. A throwback to well-made plays of the 1930s and ‘40s, complete with romantic triangles, House offers believable but not very involving dialog, some odd tonal transitions and the gloss of a tony soap opera. There are lots of theater in-jokes that got knowing laughs and even the cliched passages are well done but a rather far-fetched finale seemed contrived. Not that such a confrontation couldn’t happen per se but I simply didn’t buy it given how the characters had behaved up till then. Director Daniel Sullivan does a good job of staging House but can’t cover up the script’s shortcomings. Sarah Steele, however, as Danner’s granddaughter, in the play’s best-written role, shines every second she’s on the stage. This is the third time I’ve seen the alwaysfantastic Steele. Even in this rickety House, she can do no wrong.
Hello David, Robert & Boys @ B-Bob’s
Miss Gay America 2006 Nicole DuBois @ B-Bob’s
New Orleans Southern Decadence Grand Marshal 2014 Arthur “Reba Douglas” with Timothy & Michael Farewell to Jeremy Long Party with Stevie & Jeremy
New Orleans Southern Decadence Grand Marshal 2014 Aubrey Synclaire with Mobile Boys & Cory @ B-Bob’s Miss Aubrey Synclaire with Kenneth performing @ B-Bob’s
Hello Miss Cie & Robby
mobile
paparazzi
Welcome Home Asher & Joseph
Queen Michelle with Valerie @ B-Bob’s
Happy Birthday Michael!
Miss Cie with Mobile Fashion Week Director Richard & Cliff @ B-Bob’s
Hello B-Bob’s Light Tech Matthew
Hello Weston, C.W. & Cory
22 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals, Miss Gay America & More ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cie Anne & John
trodding the boards ...from 20
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 23
wear it out by Johnny Joseph Delgadillo, Johnny Love E-mail: cuttingedgediva@yahoo.com
Gia & Angel Malone: The Newest Faces to hit New Orleans Runways
fund. Jeffrey is the owner of the Jeffrey Scott Salon in Metairie. Jeffrey was involved in a very serious car accident and Jeffrey and his team really stepped up to help me when I needed hair for shoots and shows. Now it is time for me to step up and help Jeffrey out by raising some funds to help pay for his rehab and medical bills. I ask everybody to come enjoy the Hair Ball. This
year's costume theme is “Barbarella and the Space Invaders.” There will be raffles and a prize for the best costume along with a great hair and make up competition on the runway. Donation of $10 at the door, 75% of which will go to Jeffrey Guillory’s family to pay for Jeffrey’s medical and rehab bills. Pay it forward people. Peace Love and Happiness to all.
spotlight feature
On Wednesday, September 24th at the Blue Nile Carolina, Gallop held her annual charity fashion event featuring designers, fabulous fashion diva show girls such as Princesse Stephaney and Raven Kennedy, and musical talents from all over New Orleans. The event was fun, colorful, and full of arts. All of the money raised went to her native country Honduras to help the less fortunate families and communities there. Carolina herself talked about a visit to Honduras where she was unable to find a place that had regular toiletries in stock due to the fact that there was no money for them. I can say as one of the designers in the show I wanted to bring a new bang to the runway. What would that bang be? HMMMMMM.......... Let me see. Men walking in heels, burlesque diva Go Go McGregor, and two of the hottest newest faces to hit the runway in New Orleans, Angel Malone and Gia Malone. Yes people. Trannies looking fabulous in my clothing prancing down the runway looking fierce. Angel Malone was the opening of the show in a sexy ass one piece neon snakeskin printed swim suit and also the finale of the show in a sexy white evening gown giving you "sexy diva out of site." Angel also wore a three layer chiffon gown. Yes hunnies. Miss thang rocked all three outfits. Gia Malone was probably the prettiest model in the entire show sporting three outfits also started in a bikini top with a three layer chiffon skirt, switching into a black turtleneck and three layer cheetah print full length skirt, ending in a sexy beast orange printed bikini top dress. Biatch simply worked that runway and flawlessly. Bam to the BAM BAM!
Angel and Gia were the perfect two transsexual models to represent the CED Clothing collection and there was not even a peep as to them being anything other than fabulous. For both of them it was their first fashion show and both will be gracing my collections again. As far as the rest of the bevy of beauties... Well what can I say? I always have the best models and the best collection. LOL! I give all of the models GoGo McGregor, Keely Schnieder, MILOS, Anais St. John, Angel Malone, Gia Malone, and joy Suzanne a fabulous BA BA BA BA BAM! Thank you all for showing off my clothing well. I also give Carolina Gallop a fabulous BAM BAM for once again putting together a fabulous night for a great cause. Princesse Stephaney, Raven Kennedy and Anthony Leggio who hosted the event get a huge BA BA BAM! Great job to all. Now I move to the Hair Ball which is a costume party that I hold every year. This year it is October 25th at Mag's, 7-11pm. 75% of the money raised will go to the Jeffrey Guillory
Angel on the Runway
Gia on the Runway
Exquisite Collection of HRH Diana, Princess of Wales at Julien’s Auctions December 5-6
Angel & Gia waiting for show to happen
Beverly Hills, California – Julien’s Auctions of Beverly Hills has announced an outstanding collection of Her Royal Highness, Diana, Princess of Wales to be auctioned December 5-6, 2014 at Julien’s Auctions Beverly Hills gallery. As one of the most adored members of the Royal family, the public fascination and intrigue with Princess Diana has not diminished even years after her passing. Princess Diana captured hearts around the world as a sophisticated princess, dedicated mother and tireless humanitarian. Her beauty and personal style only eclipsed the great international respect she earned during her lifetime. Julien’s Auctions will offer collectors and fans the unique opportunity to bid on several iconic items from the life of HRH Diana, Princess of Wales. The auction will include personal clothing designed by British designer Catherine Walker who became Diana’s favorite designer and close personal friend. Their relationship began three months after Diana’s marriage to Prince Charles in 1981 and lasted until Diana’s death sixteen years later. Walker provided the Princess with many of her most iconic garments. Highlights of the auction include a petal pink Catherine Walker gown double worn by Diana, Princess of Wales, to the reopening of the Savoy Theatre and to a performance of La Boheme at the London Coliseum in 1993. The slim fitting gown is lined in silk and has a long sleeve off the shoulder bodice embellished with bands of simulated pearls, faceted glass and beadwork with a drop waist and pleated skirt (Estimate: $60,000-$80,000). Also included is a chartreuse Taroni silk georgette gown designed by Catherine Walker and worn by Princess Diana on November 11, 1993 to the banquet held at The Dorchester Hotel given by his majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia (Estimate $60,000-$80,000) and a Princess of Wales Catherine Walker designed strapless gown comprised of ivory silk crepe and worn by the Princess to a private event (Estimate: $60,000$80,00). Other personal items in the auction will include a Princess Diana Zandra Rhodes created evening gown worn HRH Princess Diana to the Birthright benefit at the London Palladium in 1987 and previously exhibited at Kensington Palace in 2002 (Estimate: $80,000-$100,000), a set of gold tone commemorative cufflinks and buttons in a blue case marked “Royal Wedding HRH The Princess of Wales and Lady Diana Spencer 29th July 1981 (Estimate: $600-$800) and an oversized limited edition catalog form the auction “Dresses from the Collection of Diana, Princess of Wales” signed “Diana” and numbered 211/250 and accompanied by a ticket to the auction (Estimate: $2,000-$4,000). In keeping with the Royal family, a slice of royal wedding cake from the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton in a presentation tin prePhotos Courtesy sented to guests Julien's Auctions and dignitaries at their wedding on April 29, 2011 and inscribed will be offered in the auction (Estimate: $1,000$2,000). Also included in this lot is a blank invitation to the wedding presented on HRH Queen Elizabeth II stationery.
24 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
[continued on 28]
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 25
CANAL STREET
100 IBERVILLE
200 BIENVILLE
300
TOULOUSE
600
RAMPART
500
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
FR
M
A
R
IG
N
Y
23 00 ES TR R A CH
24 00
FR 2 AN 500 KL L 26 00 IN YA O R E LO IN UI PH SA U DA
19 00
EN 200 0 C EL H YS 210 ME 0 N IA N FI 22 EL 00 D S RT PA M RA
French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
accounting 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] Compass & Tureau, LLC, Troy A. Tureau , Attorney at Law, 3801 Canal St., Suite 301 504.483.7777, troy@compasstureau.com, www.CompasTureau.com
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 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 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 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 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
book stores New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700
chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., 1526 Magazine, 566.1833 [is2114]
circuit/events 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 Sept. 2-7, 2015, 44th 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
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, 717 Toulouse St., 587.7782
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] 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 unforgettable 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. MAISON DE MACARTY BED & BREAKFAST, 3820 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.267.1564, MaisonMacarty.com, email: kurt@maisonmacarty.com. Luxury gay owned and operated bed and breakfast. 8 bedrooms with ensite baths, pool, sun deck and beautiful courtyard. Sleep, eat and play at Maison de Macarty,. Book it now! 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.
26 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
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 NARCISSUS, PO Box 3832, New Orleans, LA 70177. Contact: 504.228.9441 KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 1102, Kenner, LA. 70063-1102, petronius1961@cox.net KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ KREWE OF URSUS, kreweofursus@aol.com LORDS OF LEATHER, 1631 Elysian Fields, #161, 70117, www.LordsOfLeather.com
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]
media 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
museum/arts New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257 CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, 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 GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722 GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661 HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077 HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662 LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631 OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson
Square ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square WORLD WAR 2 MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012, http://nationalww2museum.org
music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666
organizations 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 BIG EASY STOMPERS, Country & Western line dancing. Weekly lessons and monthly Country & Western dance party, www.bigeasystompersneworleans.com, info@bigeasystompersneworleans.com BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 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 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,
Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans, services at 10am, 6200 St Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118; 504.270.1MCC www.mccneworleans.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, 504.298.0061, 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 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 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 VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com
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 caring 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 OR-
LEANS, 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 Metairie, LA [504] Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com 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, 371.5074 Gene's Po-Boys, 1040 Elysian Fields, 943.3861 Horn's, 1940 Dauphine St., 459.4676 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, OrleansGrapevine.com Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET Retrouvailles Bistro & Balcony Dining, 700 Bourbon St., 523.1485 The Ruby Slipper, 2001 Burgundy St., 525.9355
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 MR. BINKY'S BOUTIQUE, 107 Chartres St., 302.2095, MrBinkys.com PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM JOY THEATER, 1200 Canal St., 208.1180, 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, (LGBT Business of the Year) 638 St. Ann St., 568.0717. follow Gay New Orleans Walking Tour @ Facebook.COM
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 27
a community within communities by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, New Orleans Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
Poignant Touching the nerves that sit just below the surface and so it is poignant. This pastor has had enumerable poignant moments. They come in all shapes, sizes, locations, and occasions. When you are in the people and God business you are exposed to a lot of emotions among many other things. Being touched can take the form of sitting with a human while they share their sadness in the death of a loved one. It can take the form of seeing a child on the margins smile when they receive applause from a supporting community. Poignancy can creep up on a person when they least expect it. Recently, St. Anna’s was honored by the Forum for Equality. I knew about the Forum but not much. I was becoming more aware of the work that they do through the media. In this day and age
spotlight feature ...from 24 PUBLIC EXHIBITION: Monday, December 1, 2014 – Friday, December 5, 2014, 10am – 5pm daily, 9665 Wilshire Blvd (across from Saks Fifth Avenue) LIVE AUCTION: Friday, December 5 beginning at 10am PST; Saturday, December 6 beginning at 10am PST Registration is required to bid in this live auction and can be done in person at the exhibition and auction, or online before the sale at the www.JuliensAuctions.com Registration page to bid by phone, proxy or in person, or online at www.JuliensLive.com to bid live online, or by calling 310.836.1818. An exclusive exhibition of the collection of HRH Princess Diana will be on display at The Museum of Style Icons (MOSI) at Newbridge Silverware in Kildare, Ireland through Sunday, November 2nd, 2014. Hours are 9am6pm Monday through Saturday, and Sundays from 11am - 6pm. With expertise specializing in entertainment and sports memorabilia, Julien’s Auctions, auction house to the stars, has quickly established itself as the premier auction house in high profile celebrity and entertainment auctions. Julien’s Auctions presents exciting, professionally managed and extremely successful auctions with full color high quality auction catalogues unlike any other auction company. Previous auctions include the collections of Cher, U2, Barbara Streisand, the estate of Marilyn Monroe and many more. Official website is www.juliensauctions.com.
when so many are standing up claiming the right to love who they wish the Forum for Equality is taking it to the courts in Louisiana. It is an impressive group with an even more impressive track record when it comes to LGBT rights and search for equality in the Law and fairness in the market place. So to receive an award for recognition is needless to say quite an honor. The 25th Anniversary Celebration, award night, and fundraiser was just a couple of weeks ago. As you might expect it was well done. I will say the open bar was open for quite some time. If you were a Parton you could have started at 5pm and made a good run until 7:30. As you can imagine it got a bit loud. “Hail fellow well met,” was flowing through the rooms. Vicki and I finally found a table with a seat being way over the standing, mingling, and chatting of the bibulous warm up. We found ourselves sitting with a couple, two women who were not much alike but were certainly conversational. One was so New Orleans Italian (with a tad of French no doubt)! She went on with the accent cultivated “Downtown.” She wore a floral print dress was a bit heavy and her eyes danced as she told about virtually everyone in the room. She was one of those people that dozens stop by to say hello to and she was animated to say the least. The other women was quiet by comparison and she sat with excellent posture, she has lovely grey hair done just so, and was dressed in a subdued and dignified ensemble. She would quietly step in and out of the conversation often making a passing comment about our animated friend. Just as we were about to leave the table they announced that they had been a couple for 60 years! Imagine 60 years of living the life of who they were. I can only imagine the stories they might tell. As we entered the ball room for the presentations I was struck with how far they had come. Oh yes, they proudly said, they just recently got married: poignant, touching, surprising. Now I have received a few awards on behalf of St. Anna’s Church. I have spoken publicly, obviously, but even beyond the pulpit. I was not uptight nor dreading this one more time chance to scoop up an award. So, we sat, and ate and had a glass of champagne and waited. The usual speeches about duty and mission ensued and they were impressive. I was the second up to get an award. So when my name was called I made my way through the dimly lit room to the stage. Our presenter
read a narrative that spoke well of St. Anna’s. Finally, time to accept the award. I took the dais to say a few words. I looked out and was amazed to see people standing and applauding. I was taken aback. People were actually cheering. It went on for a moment. At that very moment it hit me like a ton of bricks. It was like déjà vu all over again. I was caught up. I was on the verge of tears. When several gay members came toward during the PRIDE march and thanked me for standing with them I was touched. Once again this was applause and cheers for a church that is accepting and not only accepting but advocating for LGBT community as fully human and therefore fully loved by God. Applause, shouts, and even a hug or two. Tears formed in my eyes. Why? Because such adulation and such gratitude should never have been necessary. Churches should have for these past many years been safe places for the LGBT community. Churches should
be leading the way to open all doors to the LGBT community. Why? Because Jesus was a lover, not a hater. Why? Because we have a God that creates and inspires and embraces. Why? Because for decades we have known or should have known that full enfranchisement of LGBT persons is simply the right thing to do, the moral thing to do, and indeed the Gospel thing to do. While I am touched and moved by the applause, and while I believe that St. Anna’s has a place to be proud of I am also ashamed. I am ashamed that it took us so long. The sin of exclusion must be atoned for. Thank you Forum for Equality, thank you to the people that hugged me during PRIDE, and thank you for all of those friends and supporters who give time again to do acts of kindness and mercy. Thank you. I am ashamed and I am delighted. It is about time because we want to know you, love you, and invite you to pray and stay with us. “I leave you with this one commandment. Love one another,” Jesus.
commentary NCIS: New Orleans Review by Frank Perez, E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net
Two episodes into the premiere season of NCIS: New Orleans and the verdict is in. Meh. The show is a spinoff of CBS’ highly successful crime drama procedural NCIS. As far as crime procedurals go, NCIS: New Orleans adheres to the tried and true formula. The first episode opens with the discovery of a bizarre murder (a leg is found in a pile of shrimp). There is the standard high-tech lab, a coroner with an attitude, a genius nerd agent, witty banter among agents, misleading clues, an innocent suspect, an “Aha!” moment that leads the team to solve the case, and the obligatory visit with the victim’s family to conclude the show. All in under 45 minutes. And it all works if you like crime dramas. What doesn’t work as well as it should is the New Orleans angle. NCIS: New Orleans was and is being shot on location here in New Orleans. That’s great but the show’s writers are not content to let the city speak for itself; rather, they burden the dialogue with gratuitous and ham-handed New Orleans clichés and references: beignets, gumbo, eggs Creole,Andouille sausage, Remoulade sauce, bread pudding, Mardi Gras, the lower 9th, Uptown, Bywater, the West Bank, double shotgun houses, trumpet players, jazz clubs, drunken college kids, gunfire in the streets, Abita beer, Mardi Gras songs, and even fleur di lis earrings. All in under 45 minutes. The accents are predictably terrible although lead agent Dwayne Pride, played by Scott Bakula, no longer begins every sentence with “My brutha” as he did in the pilot. Bakula is an accomplished actor and does a fine job but he makes the common mistake of assuming that just because New Orleans is geographically in the South, natives speak with a Southern accent. Despite this flaw, Bakula’s character is likable and his chemistry with the other cast members is effortless.
The best acting, though, is from CCH Powder, who plays the medical examiner and who is, oddly for a show set in New Orleans, the only AfricanAmerican member of the investigative team. The flirtatious banter between Christopher LaSalle (Lucas Black) and Meredith Brody (Zoe McLellan) is a bit strained in the first two episodes but has potential. McLellan’s character is a transplant from the Mid-West and thus affords the writers an opportunity to showcase the city’s eccentricities and idiosyncrasies. One hopes they do so more subtly in future episodes. Unlike American Horror Story: Coven, which was also set and shot in New Orleans, NCIS: New Orleans tries too hard to conjure the mystique of the city. If this tendency continues, locals will find it painful to watch the show. But it’s a faithful reproduction of a wildly successful formula and despite the heavy-handed New Orleans tropes, the show should prove popular with general audiences.
28 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
the legal corner by Troy A. Tureau, J.D., L.LM., Attorney at Law Email: thelawprofessor@comcast.net
It’s Your Life: Take the Keys Away From the State of LA My good friend Mark would have turned 52 this week. Mark was a beautiful man, inside and out. He was handsome, kind, ambitious, funny and had a laugh that was infectious. He was so incredibly full of life! He loved going to see movies, which we did together often. When I last saw him in June, he was the picture of good health. I was thinking about him a few weeks ago and realized that I hadn’t spoken to him in a while. Later that day, I just happened to get on Facebook, something I rarely do. To my horror, staring in my face was a posting from his sister on his Facebook page announcing to the world that Mark had died that morning of a sudden illness. To say that my heart was broken is truly an understatement. I sat there in disbelief for what seemed like hours. It seems that Mark had fallen the week before and knocked out a tooth, which had prompted him to go to the hospital. I am not sure of the details, but one thing led to another and tests were run which revealed that he had cancer of the liver. Worse than that, he was told that the cancer had spread throughout his body and there was nothing that could be done. My friend was sent home with six months to live. He slipped into a coma three days later and died two days after that. Death is something that we do not want to think about; I know I don’t! But the truth is that it will happen to every one of us eventually, whether we are ready for it or not. I used to think that the majority of people lived to a ripe old age. Judging from what I have seen in my life, this is not true. People die every second of freak accidents or sudden illnesses, just like Mark, with no
warning at all. And the question is – will we be prepared for it? As members of the LGBT community, being prepared for the future takes on special importance. As many of us have discovered, family is not necessarily those whom we are related to by blood, but rather those who we choose to be our family. And guess what….? If you don’t designate the person whom you wish to receive your property upon your death, guess who does? The State of Louisiana. That’s right, in the absence of your written intentions, state law determines who gets your property upon death along with other decisions such as who gets to make end of life decisions on your behalf, who gets to visit you in the hospital and funeral, burial or cremation wishes. Almost always it is the next of kin. What’s wrong…? Are you not thrilled by the idea of your mother banning your part-
obituary Richard “Chris” Yeager 12/28/78-9/22/14 Richard “Chris” Yeager, age 35 of New Orleans, LA, beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away on September 22, 2014. The funeral service was held October 4, 2014, in Spring Hill Cemetery, Nashville. Chris was born in Dothan, AL, on December 28, 1978. He graduated from Huntsville High School (Huntsville, AL) and continued on to receive a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. He also attended graduate school at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. Chris was an accomplished musician, vocalist and composer. DJ Chris Yeager hosted Karaoke at both GrandPre's and The Golden Lantern in New Orleans. Through his music, he touched the lives of hundreds, possibly thousands, as has been seen by the
outpouring of love and support for the family that has come literally from people around the globe. His kind, gentle, sweet, and unassuming manner made him an instant friend to almost everyone. He never realized how special he was to so many. Chris is survived by his mother, Ann Yeager of Palm Coast, FL; father and step-mother, Bill and Ginny Yeager of Newport, TN; brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Victoria Yeager of Columbus, MS; step-brother, Jaremy Black of Owens Cross Roads, AL; grandmother, Lois White of Tucson, AZ; and grandfather, John White and wife Judy of Madison, AL. Chris is preceded in death by his grandparents, “Hap” and Margaret Yeager of Nashville, TN. The family requests that memorials in the name of Richard "Chris" Yeager be made to The University of Southern Mississippi Honors College through the USM Foundation and mailed to 118 College Drive #5210, Hattiesburg, MS 39406.
ner of 20 years from your deathbed? Does the idea of your sister, whom you haven’t spoken to in over ten years, inheriting your favorite boa make you want to go insane? We have all heard the horror stories of hospitals not even allowing a partner to spend the precious final seconds at the deathbed with their life partner. Don’t let this happen to you. Things are changing. Thankfully, In 19 states and the District of Columbia, the above is occurring less frequently since Marriage Equality is a reality. (And in a few other states, domestic partnerships and civil unions are making a few changes to the above.) But this is not the case in the majority of the states in our country, and certainly not in Louisiana – at least not in the foreseeable future. So what do we do to protect ourselves, our partners, our children and our property? You should consult with an attorney to prepare legal documents that express your wishes in order to negate Louisiana state law. Documents such as a Living Trust, a Final Will, a Living Will and/or Medical Directive (both of which are end of life medical decisions), Powers of Attorney (which give whomever you appoint to make business decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated) and miscellaneous instructions as to funeral, burial or cremation. I hope you live a long and healthy life! And I hope that Marriage Equality
is a reality for all of us in Louisiana and the rest of the country as soon as possible. But until that day arrives, be proactive and make your wishes known. It is your life, after all! (These are the personal views of Troy A. Tureau, and nothing therein is intended to be legal advice of any kind. I invite your comments and questions.) Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Tureau obtained his Bachelor of Arts from Louisiana State University with a major in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Political Science. He obtained his Juris Doctorate in 1992 from Loyola Law School, New Orleans, and his L.LM. in Environmental Law from Lewis and Clark Law school in 2008. He has been a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association since 1992 and is a partner at the New Orleans law firm, Compass & Tureau, LLC., which proudly serves the LGBT community. He is an Associate Professor at Ashford University and has held adjunct faculty positions at the College of The Desert and Kaplan University. He is the author of many written works, both fiction and nonfiction and the founder of the recently launched www.lgbtlegalforms.com, the first LGBT downloadable legal form company in the world. He is married to his husband Michael of 10 years, and they are the proud parents of 12 year old Cole and their 4 year old Pekingese, Ginger.
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 29
book reviews by Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
“A Kaleidoscope of Homoeroticism” Capolavoro di Uomo: Masterpiece of Man. Capolavoro Publishing, 2013. ISBN: 978-1-62050-626-4. 368 pages. $69.95. Capolavoro di Uomo: Masterpiece of Man is a unique hard-cover coffee table art book featuring gay erotica from top gay artists. In addition to being a thoroughly comprehensive anthology, the book showcases the wide range of diversity within contemporary gay erotic art. Here the reader will find paintings, sketches, digital art, and d**ks galore. Old d**ks, young d**ks, fat d**ks, skinny d**ks, Bear d**ks, Twink d**ks, Cowboy d**ks, Leather d**ks, Satanic d**ks, Santa Claus d**ks, soft d**ks, hard d**ks, ejaculating d**ks, all manner of d**k. And asses and abs, lots of asses and abs. The breadth of the collection is astounding. The book features 46 artists from around the world representing Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Chile, England, France, Holland, Israel, Italy, South Africa, Spain, New Zealand, and the United States. On average, a dozen or so pieces from each artist are offered along with
out front Ambush Magazine’s Frank Perez Lectures at Tulane University On Monday, September 30, author and Ambush columnist Frank Perez spoke at an event sponsored by the Office for Gender and Sexual Diversity at Tulane University. The lecture topic was New Orleans LGBT History. Perez spoke for about an hour on the city’s rich gay heritage. In the course of the talk, which was accompanied by a power point presentation, Perez discussed prominent figures such as Lyle Saxon, W.R. Irby, F.B. Johnston, Clay Shaw, Dixie Fasnacht and Barbara Scott as well as legendary bars such as Café Lafitte in Exile, Dixie’s Bar of Music, Tony Bacino’s and the Up Stairs Lounge. In addition, Perez also outlined the origins and evolution of Gay Carnival, Southern Decadence, and the shifting public attitudes toward homosexuality in New Orleans over the last fifty years. Perez serves as the President of the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana and is the author of two books on New Orleans history—Treasures of the Vieux Carre and In Exile: The History and Lore Surrounding New Orleans Gay Culture and Its Oldest Gay Bar (with co-author Jeffrey Palmquist). He also writes a history column for Ambush entitled “Moments in Gay New Orleans History.” Perez, a part-time Instructor at Delgado Community College who teaches an “Advanced Tour Guiding” course, also offers the “Gay New Or-
leans Walking Tour” through his business, the Crescent City Tour Booking Agency (winner of the 2014 GAA for LGBT Business of the Year).
Facebook Backs Down, Drag Queens+ Win! With an international backlash, Facebook has backed down on its stance insisting that everyone use "real names only" on the social network. On October 1, Facebook agreed to value "genuine identity "over "legal identity" on their social network. Facebook issued an apology to those who may have been adversely affected by its scope. According to chief product officer Chris Cox in a post, “I want to apologize to the affected community of drag queens, drag kings, transgender, and extensive community of our friends, neighbors, and members of the LGBT community for the hardship that we’ve put you through in dealing with your Facebook accounts over the past few weeks.” According to www.NYMag.com, "The conflict arose in September, after drag queens protested that their Facebook accounts had been flagged
a short biographical sketch of the artist as well as a quote from the artist. The “In His Own Words” sections are insightful in that they feature the artist’s own reflections on his creative process, something most art anthologies do not provide. For example, Chris Lopez writes, “My artwork is not sexual, rather intimate and comforting. It conveys the pleasure of being alone naked by ourselves. Nudity for me is that intimate moment where there is nothing to hide when we are alone with our own vulnerability.” No one will like everything in this book, but everyone will find something to like. Those who love classical art will delight in James Child’s work, which is informed by a Greek aesthetic, as evidenced by works with titles such as “Ganymede” and “Olympic Victor.” “Eros,” a chalk drawing of a nude male figure in repose is reminiscent of the “Sleeping Faun,” a sculptural Hellenistic masterpiece from the second century, BCE. Child’s “Giancarlo” is a stunning portrait that conveys the youthful sensuality of yearning and idealism. Also drawing from the Classical tradition is the work of Cody Fergusun. Works like Fergusun’s “Green Chair,”
in which the subject reclines wearing only his “tighty-whities” are firmly rooted in Classicism yet simultaneously recall modern motifs, specifically Calvin Klein’s famous underwear billboard campaign which Mark Wahlberg made famous in the early 1990s. Those who favor pop art will enjoy the comic book art of Patrick Fillion and Logan Kowalski. Fillion’s subjects have unusually large penises. Fillion writes, “I draw my men with such large phalluses because I want to depict this work of art in all its glory. By amplifying the size, I feel it places its beauty and erotic potency fully on display, glorifying it.” Kowalsky’s subjects are bulky, beefy and built. The artist describes himself as “a gay comic-book pornographist.” Think of Santa Claus in a sling. From Rob Clarke’s “animalistic and alien” figures such as “Fallen Unicorn” and “Sea Twink” to Tony de Carlo’s religious iconography to Robert Sherer’s sociopolitical subtexts, this anthology contains just about every color in the homoerotic spectrum. Capolavoro di Uomo: Masterpiece of Man is a visual tour de force of gay male erotica, a marvelous kaleidoscope of homoeroticism that should appeal to a wide audience. A multitude of artistic sensibilities are on display here—classical, campy, surreal, and everything in between. And all are charged with an erotic sublimity.
and could only be reopened by using their legal names. San Francisco–based performer Sister Roma called the policy 'unfair, hurtful, discriminatory and an invasion of privacy.' Of course, the issue could be even more severe for transgender individuals, for whom using their legal names could be an issue of safety."
style of design. For twenty-five years Null directed the Retail Floral Design program at Mississippi State University. In 1992, he retired and was awarded Professor Emeritus. In his career, Mr. Null has received numerous awards and recognition. Mr. Null is an internationally recognized leader in floral arts and retail floriculture. During his floral career, he has presented 850 lecture demonstrations throughout the world. His style creates an excellent learning atmosphere that is both educational and enjoyable. His floral creations have graced White House state dinners, Presidential inaugurals, and the windows of Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s, Neiman Marcus catalogues, and have appeared in many national and international publications. He has exhibited and taught design classes in London, Oslo, Cape Town, Sydney, and Tokyo, as well as throughout the United States. His design presentations have been featured at the Smithsonian Institute, the Virginia Museum of Fine Art, the Minneapolis Art Institute, and the New Orleans Museum of Art. He has served as president of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) and is the immediate past CFO of the AIFD Foundation.
Lords of Leather Upcoming Events Halloween is right around the corner. Of course that means costumes and debauchery of all kinds being brewed up. The Mystic Krewe of Lords of Leather is planning a Halloween Costume Contest on Friday, October 31 at the Phoenix. Prizes will be awarded at midnight for costumes in the following categories: Best Individual, Best Group, and Most Risque. Since the date falls on a rare fifth Friday of the month, the Lords will also be hosting a Beer Bust on the bar’s patio that night from 9pm until 1am. So dress up (or down) and join the Lords and the Phoenix for some Halloween weekend fun. Switching gears, the Lords of Leather will be hosting a Wine/Cheese Tasting event and combining it with an Art Show/ Floral Design Demonstration on Thursday evening , November 20 at the Healing Center on St. Claude Avenue. Several local artists will be showing their work and our special guest will be Professor Emeritus Ralph Null . Ralph Null is a native of Mississippi and is well known for his southern garden
So save the date, November 20 for this special event and join the Lords as they enjoy some wine and cheese, local artwork and welcome their distinguished guest to New Orleans for this informative evening. Ticket information and more details to come.
30 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 31
ambush
Autour de la Ville (Around Town) ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon
Server Will & manager Errol welcome you to Clover Grill
Designer Carolina Gallop, Princesse Stephaney & Lauren during Fashion Show @ Blue Nile
New manager Rudy & Bartender of the Month Zach
VJ Kyle D hails from Oz
Welcome to the 25th NO/AIDS Walk
Tim, Jason & Shannon cocktailing @ the Phoenix
Friday Night Before Mardi Gras @ 25th NO/AIDS Walk
Coca Mesa’s new “The Bearded Lady” persona @ Oz
25th NO/AIDS Walk @ Audubon Park
Carolina Gallop’s Fashion Show @ Blue Nile
Volunteers @ 25th NO/AIDS Walk
32 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Ambush on the Road ~ Emerald City + The Lighthouse Museum ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Tony Leggio
paparazzi
NEXT Ambush DEADLINE Wednesday, Feb. 13 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 33
ambush
paparazzi
Splash Baton Rouge pops into the Bourbon Pub & Parade
Daddy Don welcomes you to COK inside the Phoenix
Latter & Blum Realtor Stace McDonald @ Good Friends Bar
Steven joins bartender Derek @ Oz Lords' Wacky Wagon Race brings Mike, Pat, Ben & Gary to Lafitte’s
David bartends @ Bourbon Pub’s Jungle Party
Leon, Bobby & Steve @ Food For Friends Pantry
Dancers Talen & Rafi @ The Corner Pocket
DJ Chris does Trash Disco Sundays @ Lafitte’s
Derek, Jon & Vanessa Carr @ Golden Lantern’s Divas R Us
SDGM Aubrey, Rikki & Karli @ Bourbon Pub’s Jungle Party
Bourbon Pride’s Josh bids farewell to Earl leaving for NYC
Security Garth & manager Carla welcome you to Jungle Party @ Bourbon Pub & Parade
Duaine, Kyle & Kevin join Renegade Bears’ Beer Bust @ the Phoenix
Ray welcomes you to the Oz Daiquiri Bar
Johnathan & Tina welcome you to Deli of the Year Quartermaster
Renegade Bears’ Don & bartender Tom @ the Phoenix
MC Lisa Beaumann & dancer Tristan @ The Corner Pocket
Boys! Boys! Boys! Live from The Corner Pocket
34 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om
Il Capture! (Catch It) ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin, Jeremy Weinberg
Lords of Leather Wacky Wagon Race @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile
Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 35
36 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Oc t . 7-20, 2014 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om