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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
OMG!!! Overwhelming Community Support Raises $11,286 for Southern Decadence XLIV in Most Recent 2-Week Period Community support continues to overwhelm Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI as a record-breaking $11,286 was raised in the most recent 2-week period. Benefiting Southern Decadence XLIV and the 2015 charities, SDGMs XLI Steven Mora, Rip Naquin, Marsha Delain, Misti Ates and Frankie Fierce would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who are making the 2015 celebration the success it is thus far. The official charities include LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, Louisiana Equality Foundation, and PFLAG New Orleans (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) Scholarship Fund. Six events were held in this period beginning on July 25 with the Smatch Game raising $1,408 at Pelican Bay, followed on July 27th with the Southern Decadence Hot Boy Auction raising $1,586 at The Corner Pocket. Next up on August 1 was the Southern Decadence Spectacular raising $1,573 at the Bourbon Pub & Parade, then on August 3 was Italian Feast of the Gods raising $524 at The Golden Lantern. On August 7, the Oz Turnabout & Buy A Boy Auction raised an astounding $5,920. The 2-week period ended on August 8 with Singing on the Bayou raising $275 at the Marshall Mansion. The only expenses were $40 for the Smatch Game and $45.98 for Singing on the Bayou, leaving a grand total of $11,280.02. La Familia's own Johnny Passion hosted his 2nd Annual Smatch Game at the Pelican Bay Restaurant raising $450 from VIP tables, $650 from auctions, $108 from tips, $200 from the door for a sub-total of $1,408 minus $40 in expenses leaving a grand total of $1,368. This earned La Familia a Gold sponsorship. The Southern Decadence Hot Boy Auction was hosted at the Corner Pocket raising $310 at the door; $250 from the Corner Pocket; $122 in performance tips courtesy of Opal Masters, Lisa Beaumann, and Persana Shoulders; and from auctions: $50 for Boy 1 Michael from Dr. George, $100 for Boy 2 Rafi & 801 Restaurant dinner from Jason Routzahn, $140 for Boy 3 Tom & Eat dinner from SDGM XLI Frankie Fierce, $70 for Boy 4 Zach & Sylvian dinner from Jason Routzahn, $130 for Boy 5 Matt & Meauxbar dinner from Coca Mesa and Sally-FLY Jeff Palmquist, and $100 for Boy 6 Rico & Amon-Ra Ball Tickets from Jason Routzahn, $40 for Lee Worrells Wreath from Stephen Valiente, $60 for Skyy Basket from Double Play's Chuck &
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Bill, $60 for Voodoo Tab from SDGM XLI Frankie Fierce, $50 for Corner Pocket Basket from Frank Perez, $104 from 50/50 Raffle (including $52.00 donated back from the winner) for a grand total of $1,586. This earned The Corner Pocket a Gold sponsorship. The Southern Decadence Spectacular Show & Benefit was hosted by the Bourbon Pub & Parade raising $100 from VIP table for Marty Curtin, Koo Gaffney, Maybelline Maskara and Steve Tregre; $340 from the door, $109 from 50/50 Raffle, $109 from 50/50 Raffle donated back by winner Steve Tregre; and auctions: $75 for Skyy Vodka Basket from James Garner, $100 for 2 Amzie Adams Posters & 2 Bourbon Pub VIP Southern Decadence Passes from SDGM XXXIII Regina Adams, $60 for Bourbon Pub Basket from Derek & Jon Penton-Robicheaux, $100 for 2 Amzie Adams Posters & 2 Bourbon Pub VIP Southern Decadence Passes from SDGM XXVII Erroll Rizzuto, $60 for Bourbon Pub Basket donated back by Derek & Jon from Michael Bingham, $45 for Jamie Hayes Print & Golden Lantern Bar Tab from
Giant Southern Decadence/LGBT Wedding Guide Out Sept. 1, DEADLINE: Tues., Aug. 21
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Gulf South LGBT Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com
SDGM XXXV Paloma; $475 for stage tips from SDGMs XLI Marsha Delain & Frankie Fierce, XXVII Errol Rizzuto, XL Reba Douglas, XXXIII Regina Adams, XXXV Paloma, XXXIX Venus Santiago, and SD Lt. Persana Shoulders for a grand total of $1,573. This earned Bourbon Pub & Parade a Platinum sponsorship including in-kind donations. The Italian Feast of the Gods was catered by Little Vic's and the Golden Lantern, and hosted at the Official Home of Southern Decadence raising $205 from the buffet, $77 from the raffle, $60 from SDGMs XLI poster signing; and from auctions $60 for Skyy Vodka Basket from Ed Clare, $30 for Oriental Art from Bill Shupe, $22 for Oriental Fan from Joseph Smith, and $70 for SallyFLY Monica Synclaire-Kennedy's Southern Decadence Martini Glass from James Garner for a grand total of $524. This brought the total raised by Presenting sponsor The Golden Lantern to $7,500, the largest cash sponsor of Southern Decadence 44. The Oz Turnabout & Buy A Boy Auction raised $971 from the door, $468 from stage tips, $131 from 50/50 raffle; and Buy A Boy Auctions: $200 for Ryan Sessum from Katharine Disky, $250 for Dusty Lyons from Denise, $600 for Richard Hebert from Ashley Longshore, $1,000 for Robby Robinson from Stanley's Tanya Boswell, $500 for Stephen Valiente from Jay Bock, $750 for Jaron Austin from Richard Perque, $200 for Jordan Steib from SDGM XL Aubrey Synclaire, $300 for Drew Kingswell from John Chatterton, and $250 for Misael Rubio from Persana Shoulders; and sponsorships: $200 from Helene Berot, and $100 from Persana Shoulders for a grand total of $5,920. This brings the total raised by Oz this year to $6,921 the second largest cash sponsor qualifying Oz at the Presenting level. Dinner packages for the Buy A Boy auction were donated by AVO, 801 Royal, Katie’s Restaurant, Meauxbar, Sylvain, Little Vic’s, QuarterMaster, Superior Grill, Pelican Bay, and La Thai. Catering for the event was courtesy of SDGM XXXVII Misael Rubio & QuarterMaster Deli, Vic Caracci of Little Vic’s, 801 Royal, and The Pelican Bay Restaurant. Singing on the Bayou hosted at the Marshall Harris Mansion raised $175 plus $100 for a Peal Sponsorship from Stephen Alderdice, minus $45.98 in expenses leaving a grand total of $229.02 qualifying Marshall Harris as a Bronze sponsor. Visit www.SouthernDecadence.com for more information or www.Facebook.com/ SouthernDecadenceNOLA.
THE OFFICIAL MAG
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© AWARD WINNING:
Saints & Sinners Literary Festival Hall of Fame/2015, Louisiana Excellence Award: Media & Internet/2014, New Orleans Print Media Award/ 2014, 25th NO/AIDS Task Force Humanitas Award/2013, New Orleans Print Media Award/ 2013, Krewe of Mwindo Media Honoree/2009, Krewe of Petronius Carnival Spirit of Gay Mardi Gras XLVIII Award/2009, Forum For Equality Acclaim Awards X Media Recipient/2008, NO/AIDS Task Force Prometheus “Torch of Truth” [media] Award/2001 OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: ripna@ambushmag.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ in print/780,000+ On-line CIRCULATION: Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi Texas - Houston
STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin • 504.522.8049 Paul Melancon THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkeys, Felicia Phillips, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans MIss Cie, Leon Weekley-Mobile, 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. ©1982-2015 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
More Sponsors than Ever for Southern Decadence 2015 More sponsors contine to join the 2015 Southern Decadence celebration of gay life, music and culture. Please support these businesses and individuals who are making the 44th circuit party weekend possible! [continued on 8]
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celebrazzi
Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXXIX Tami Tarmac and Host Persana Shoulders join Stanley's Tanya Boswell who was the highest bidder of the evening for Mr. Golden Lantern Robby Robinson at $1,000 for the Buy A Boy Auction and Oz Turnabout show. The event raised a whopping $5,920 for Southern Decadence 2015 and its three charities: LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, Louisiana Equality Foundation, and PFLAG New Orleans (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) Scholarship Fund.
The Southern Decadence Hot Boy Auction hosted by Corner Pocket bar baron's Michael and Tommy Elias was a great success bringing in $1,586 for the 44th Annual Southern Decadence celebration and its charities. Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXIX Tami Tarmac, XLI Frankie Fierce, XLAubrey Synclaire, XLI Rip Naquin, XXXIII Lisa Beaumann and XLI Marsha Delain joined Tommy and Michael Elias for the festive evening.
Southern Decadence: The Whole Gay Weekend
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Frankie Fierce and Steven Mora join SDGMs XXXV Paloma, XXXIII Regina Adams, XXVII Errol Rizzuto, XL Chad Boutte, XLI Marsha Delain, XLI Rip Naquin and XL Reba Douglas starring in the Southern Decadence Spectacular Show & Benefit raising $1,573 at the Bourbon Pub & Parade for Southern Decadence 2015 charities. Steven and Rip emceed the affair which featured Marsha's debut performance at the venue, along with SDGM XXXIX Venus Santiago and guest Southern Decadence Lt. Persana Shoulders. (Photo by Darwin Reed)
Only available at: www.SouthernDecadence.com
The Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern hosted Feast of the Gods & SDGMs XLI Poster Signing raising $524 for Southern Decadence bringing their total raised to $7,500, the largest cash Presenting Sponsor this year. The event was catered by Little Vic's and The Golden Lantern. (Photo: front-SDGMs XXXIII Regina Adams, XLI Rip Naquin, Marsha Delain, Steven Mora & Misti Ates, XXXV Tittie Toulouse; back-SDGMs XL Chad Boutte, XXXIX Tami Tarmac, XL Reba Douglas, XLI Frankie Fierce, XXXV Paloma, XXXIV Electra City & Golden Lantern Bar Baron James Garner)
Host Marshall Harris joins Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Rip Naquin, Marsha Delain, Misti Ates and Steven Mora for Singing on the Bayou at his palatial mansion raising $275 for Southern Decadence XLIV and the 2015 charities.
Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XLI Misti Ates host Johnny Passion's 2nd Annual Smatch Game raising $1,368 for Southern Decadence 2015 and its charities at Pelican Bay Restaurant. (Photo by Robert Mac Reynolds)
Bar Baron Mac McALL welcomes legendary bar owner Diane Dimiceli as guest bartender to Cutter's in the Marigny area of New Orleans. (Photo by Rip Naquin)
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book review Big Freedia: God Save the Queen Diva Big Freedia with Nicole Balin. Gallery Books, 2015. ISBN: 978-1-50110124-3. 262 pages. $24.99. by Frank Perez Don’t call it Sissy Bounce. Big Freedia doesn’t like that. She says it’s just Bounce. Big Freedia says a lot in her new book, God Save the Queen Diva. As far as memoirs go, this is a fine book about a fascinating subject—the LGBT+ subculture of the New Orleans hip-hop scene. As one of the first openly gay rappers to gain mainstream success, Freedia’s biggest message is one of selfacceptance. Her unique, high-energy, booty-popping music allows her to twerk, wiggle, and shake her way to self-confidence—and she encourages her fans to do the same. Throughout the book, Freedia reflects on how Bounce music has helped her through the darkest times in her life: growing up in one of the worst neighborhoods in New Orleans, coming out, losing loved ones to street violence and jail, spending two days on her roof during Katrina, and her mother’s long struggle with cancer. And as she recounts her personal history, Freedia also offers readers insights into the history of New Orleans Bounce music. In the process, she introduces the
the "official" dish ...from 4 Sponsors include: Presenting - Ambush Mag-Official Southern Decadence Guide, SouthernDecadence.com-Official Website, The Golden Lantern, The Chicory, SKYY Vodka-Official Vodka of Southern Decadence, Broussard's Restaurant & Courtyard, OffBeat Magazine, Oz New Orleans; Platinum - Bud Light-Official Beer of Southern Decadence, Bourbon Pride, Four Seasons & Patio Stage Bar, Gay Appreciation Awards, Tropical Isle: Home of the Hand Grenade-Official Drink of Southern Decadence, SallyFLY Jeffrey Palmquist & Coca Mesa, Bourbon Pub & Parade; Gold - Todd Blauvelt, Sir Speedy New Orleans, Pelican Bay, GrandPre's, Amzie Adams, Steve Tregre, La Familia, Little Vic's, Hotel Storyville; Silver - Larry Graham/Graham Studio One, Law Offices of Warren A. Forstall, Jr., Eugene Theriot & Dwain Hertz/Gene's Po-Boys, NOLA Fleur de Lis, Krewe of Petronius, Phoenix, Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop; Bronze - Larry Anderson & Michael Boulas, Safonda Peters & Stuart Nettles, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, A-MED Ambulance, Glinda's Jewelry by Design, Cutter's, Quartermaster Deli, Marshall Harris; and Pearl - Wicked Orleans, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, Cary P. Oswald, SDGM 27 Errol C. Rizzuto, Mac McAll/Cutter's Bar, Jon & Derek
reader to a plethora of colorful characters. Bounce music originated in the housing projects and poor neighborhoods of New Orleans in the late 1980s and is characterized by a fast, repetitive beat and samples from classic hip-hop songs. Bounce music also features call and response, thus keeping alive a musical tradition first introduced to New Orleans at Congo Square in the days of slavery and, to this day, an essential aspect of Mardi Gras Indian music. The first Bounce song to be recorded was “Where They At?” by Kevin ‘T.T.Tucker’ Ventry and DJ Irv at the Ghost Town Lounge in Hollygrove. In 1991, the song was re-recorded for radio and became a hit. Eventually Bounce permeated and influenced rap music and is evident in hits such as Juvenile’s “Back That Ass Up.” Twerking became integrated with Bounce in the mid-1990s, long before Miley Cyrus introduced it to white people a few years ago. And around 2000, a number of openly gay Bounce artists began to emerge, including Big Freedia, Katey Red, Sissy Nobby and others. Big Freedia, born Freddie Ross, is a New Orleans hip-hop musician known for Bringing Bounce from the underground music scene to the forefront of the industry. She was choir director of her church by the age of eighteen and then became a backup dancer for her friend, Katey Red, the original “Sissy Bounce” rapper, before striking out on her own. Today she is the star of the most popular show in the history of the Fuse network, Big Freedia: Queen of Bounce. In 2014, she released her first studio album, Just Be Free.
Penton-Robicheaux, June Pennick, Glenn Paul Melancon, Gary Glitter, Fabulous Flowers, Michael Bingham, Donald Ellis, Addiction Coffeehouse/ Kinky & Straight Hair Salon, Treme' Coffeehouse, Jamie Hayes Gallery, GrrlSpot, Vinsantos, Michael Sullivan, Helene Berot, Helene Berot, Persana Shoulders, Stephen Alderdice.
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Rip & Marsha's Award Winning Potato Salad & non-award winning Cole Slaw, Glazed Carrots, Dr. Mac's famous Seven Layer Bars & Caramel Brownies, SKYY Basket Auction & more benefiting Southern Decadence. Join fellow SDGMs XLI Steven Mora, Misti Ates & Frank Joseph Wingerter IV for the festivities & only $5 per plate benefiting Southern Decadence Charities, @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile FRIDAY, August 14th... 7-10pm, Join Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Misti Ates, Steven Mora, Marsha Delain, Rip Naquin & Frank Joseph Wingerter IV for Southern Decadence Gong Karaoke! Pay $5 to gong karaoke singers off the stage, all in good fun for a good cause-Southern Decadence Charities. Singers can match the amount of the gong to remain on stage & keep singing! @ Kajun's Pub
WEDNESDAY, August 12th... 6-8pm, Southern Decadence SallyFLY Cookout with Head SF (SallyFLY) Chef Jeffrey Palmquist grilling up cheese burgers & all the fixin's with
SATURDAY, August 22nd... 7-10pm, "Y'all Come As Your Favorite Southern Decadent" A Southern Decadence Costume Gala, Join your Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Steven, Misti, Rip, Marsha, and Frankie for an evening of Decadent History, Fabulous Entertainment, Revelry & Fun. Dress up as your favorite Southern Decadent, enter the costume contest and show off your decadent side. Silent Auction and Costume Contest. Tickets: VIP - $100 (Become a Pearl Sponsor) with special VIP Reception, hors d’oeuvres, open bar @ 6pm. General Admission - $25 admission time 7pm with hors d’oeuvres, open bar, entertainment - Dapper Dandies from 710pm, joined by Bella Blue at 8:30pm. @ Hotel Storyville
SATURDAY, August 15th... 8-10pm, Magnolia Cotillion 2015 celebrating the 42nd Anniversary of Southern Decadence Grand Marshals 41 Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain & in honor of fellow Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Steven Mora, Misti Ates & Frankie Fierce with open bar, Culinary Delights from the Seven Seas, attire: casual summer whites, benefiting Southern Decadence & 2015 Charities, DOOR DONATION: $25, $50, $75 or $100 receives Pearl Sponsorship (please make checks payable to New Orleans Southern Decadence Inc.), RSVP: 504.522.8049 or ripna@ambushmag.com, @ Ambush Mansion
Join Southern Decadence Fundraisers & Make a Difference! You can make a difference when you support the remaining Southern Decadence fundraisers. Your Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Steven Mora, Rip Naquin, Marsha Delain, Misti Ates, and Frankie Fierce set the course for the 44th Southern Decadence by celebrating the past, present and future with the selection of three charities. The team chose the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana to preserve the past, Louisiana Equality Foundation to preserve the present, and PFLAG New Orleans (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) Scholarship Fund to preserve the future. All monies raised minus expenses benefits the 2015 charities. Remaining events include:
guests! This is on of the last SD FUNDRAISERS SO COME OUT, HAVE FUN & SUPPORTA GREAT CAUSE!!!!, @ Tulane Ave Bar
SUNDAY, August 23rd... 3-5pm, SDS: Sunday Decadence Social with buffet, show, auctions, prizes, $10 donation @ door with 2nd drink free on Chuck & Bill benefiting Southern Decadence Charities, @ The Double Play Visit www.SouthernDecadence.com for more information or www.Facebook.com/ SouthernDecadenceNOLA.
NOLA Leather to Geaux October 16-18 SUNDAY, August 16th... 7-10pm, Sicilian Sweets & Southern Spirits with Lagniappe Brass Band in the courtyard, $30 includes open bar & dessert bar, @ Little Vic's FRIDAY, August 21st... 5pm, Southern Decadence Street Carnival, with carnival games, live music, food, raffle, lots of prizes to be won! Drag show @ 8pm featuring former grand marshals and some lovely
Plan now for year two of NOLA Leather to Geaux, slated for October 16-18. Whether a local or a visitor, this leather run weekend offers many opportunities for the indulgence of your desires. Participants will have the unique experience of wearing his/ her leather/ fetish gear while drinking in the streets with a “go cup” in hand. One may hang out in bars and take advantage of playful dark spaces while celebrating leather and kink in a way possible only in New Orleans. Purchasers of the weekend package
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Southern Decadence Hot Boy Auction raises $1,586 for Southern Decadence 2015 @ The Corner Pocket ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Darwin Reed
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moments in gay new orleans history by Professor Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
“Belle Reve” In 1992, David Mesler, Jan Vick, and Peter Drago were tired of watching their friends die of AIDS. The epidemic was reaching its peak in New Orleans and these three best friends decided to do something about it. One of the major needs at the time was housing. The Lazarus House, which had opened in 1985, was full so they decided to form a non-profit organization and open another housing facility. Belle Reve was chartered in September of 1992 and opened its doors in March of 1993. With a federal HOPWA (Housing Opportunity for Persons with AIDS) grant from HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development), Mesler, Vick, and Drago purchased a modest home in the Bywater and then used their own money to renovate the home to house eight residents. They called the home Belle Reve, French for “beautiful dream,” which was also the name of Blanch Dubois’ plantation home in Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire. In 1994, the home next door to Belle Reve was on the city’s blighted property list and the facility purchased it and renovated it to house four families. They called this home Belle Esprit, or “beautiful spirit.” Local interior designer, the late Chet Pourciau, in
conjunction with Eric Hess of Hess Marketing, donated time and talents, as well as furniture, to decorate the Belle Esprit community living room. The warehouse behind Belle Esprit was renovated after Hurricane Katrina and is now called Belle Grace. Belle Reve New Orleans can now serve a total of 15 individuals and four couples or families with children, at any one given time. There are usually four to five people on the waiting list to move in. Residents fall into two categories—permanent (primarily people on Social Security disability) and transitional. In addition to housing, Belle Reve also sponsors support groups and offers programming to help residents transition into independent living. Some of these programs include life skills classes, substance abuse counseling, and psycho-social support. Other services include 24 hour personal care, medication adherence counseling, daily meals, social activities and recreation, and a weekly computer class. Executive Director Vicki Weeks notes, “AIDS doesn’t have a face. It affects all nationalities and orientations. And it’s not a disease that’s going to kill you unless you don’t take your meds.” Serving the HIV/AIDS population of
New Orleans, Belle Reve was the first nonprofit, assisted-living facility of its kind, to be licensed in the State of Louisiana. Belle Reve has consistently received superior ratings and honors from monitoring agencies, including a “Certificate of Merit for Outstanding Service” from the City of New Orleans; and the Executive Director received a “Special Commendation” from the United States Department of State, for working with international visitors. Additionally, Executive Director Vicki Weeks was also honored with an “Acclaim Award” from the Forum for Equality for her tireless work in the HIV/AIDS community. Belle Reve has also won corporate and foundation funding from the MAC AIDS Fund through their MAC Cosmetics, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, EPNO, Harrah’s Casino, BellSouth, Walmart, the Almar Foundation, and from the Friday Night Before Mardi Gras organization, among others. The majority of funding for Belle Reve comes in the form of three federal grants, including the Ryan White fund, which subsidizes the facility’s psycho-social programming. The Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act was enacted by Congress in 1990. Named in honor of Ryan White, a teenager who contracted the disease while receiving hemophilia treatments, the Act is the largest federally funded program for people living with HIV/AIDS and seeks to improve the availability of care for low-income, uninsured and underinsured persons with AIDS and their families. Ryan White funded programs are prioritized by the New Orleans Regional AIDS Planning Council (NORAPC). Founded in 1993, the mission
of NORAPC is to develop and maintain a comprehensive system of care for persons living with HIV/AIDS in the New Orleans area that is accessible, responsive, culturally sensitive and of the highest quality, and to ensure that all persons living with HIV/ AIDS live with dignity. Belle Reve will host a fundraiser on Saturday, August 22 called the Starry Night Gala at Generations Hall. Tickets are available at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/ avita-pharmacy-starry-night-belle-revegala-tickets-15914014245.
the "official" dish ...from 8 will enjoy a welcome party at the host hotel on Friday evening, a “meat “ and greet at Rawhide on Friday night, a mid-day Saturday guided walking tour of the historic French Quarter, a BBQ/beer bust and play party at the Phoenix Bar Saturday afternoon and a leather/fetish dress codeenforced dance at Oz Saturday night. Sunday will feature a late lunch and a bar crawl ending with Lafitte’s famous Sunday night napkin toss. Each package also includes a run pin, a run-themed t-shirt, a souvenir plastic “geaux cup” and a “swag” bag. Full weekend package is just $75 until September 19 and $100 after. Don’t miss out. Hotel St. Pierre at 911 Burgundy in the Quarter is this year’s host hotel, call 504.524.4401 and mention NOLA Leather to Geaux for the special group rate. For more information visit www.nolaleathertogeaux.wordpress.com and like us on Facebook (NOLA Leather to Geaux).
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Oz Turnabout & Buy A Boy Auction raises a Whopping $5,920 for Southern Decadence XLIV ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin
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Southern Decadence Spectacular raises $1,573 for Southern Decadence XLIV @ Bourbon Pub & Parade ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Darwin Reed
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham
Hot Happenings Are we ready for all the events coming our way for Decadence. We have an even mix of all types of fun things to do. Here are just a few of the hot picks. Wednesday, August 12, 2015 Come grab some grub at the Southern Decadence Sally-FLY Cookout with Head SF (Sally-FLY) Chef Jeffrey Palmquist at Café Lafitte’s in Exile from 6 – 8pm. There will be cheese burgers grilled with all the accoutrements. Join Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Rip & Marsha’s who are bringing their Award Winning Potato Salad, Cole Slaw and Glazed Carrots, along with Dr. Mac's famous Seven Layer Bars & Caramel Brownies. There will be auctions and more all benefiting Southern Decadence. The cost is only $5 per plate, now that is a deal. Cafe Lafitte in Exile is located at 901 Bourbon Street. Saturday, August 15, 2015 The South has risen in all its decadent glory at the Magnolia Cotillion 2015 celebrating the 42nd Anniversary of Southern Decadence Grand Marshals 41 Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain, along with Steven Mora, Misti Ates and Frankie Fierce. The event takes place from 8 – 10pm at the Ambush Mansion located at 828 Bourbon Street. There will be an open bar and culinary delights from the Seven Seas. The attire is casual summer whites. The DOOR DONATION can be $25, $50, $75 or $100 receives a Pearl sponsorship (please make checks payable to New Orleans Southern Decadence Inc.), RSVP: 504.522.8049 or ripna@ambushmag.com. Saturday, August 15, 2015 Spin the Sexy Wheel at Strip Roulette. This zany and naughty game takes place at the Allways Lounge (2240 St. Claude Avenue) starting at 10pm. The rules are simple; it consists of 2 teams of burlesque performers who will have to strip for the lives of their g-strings! They will have to improv a burlesque act to music that they have not picked out and will be carefully curated by DJ Ajent O to be as awkward and hilarious as possible!! And, on top of that, they will be given an uncomfortably obscure prop that they will have to incorporate into their striptease! There will be fun, games, prizes, stripping and much more. Doors are at 9pm; show at 10pm and there is a $10 cover per person. Sunday, August 16, 2015 This is how we roll in NOLA with a festival for just about anything even sushi. The 2015 Sushi Fest will be held at the Lakefront Arena (6801 Franklin Avenue) from 1-5pm (1 – 2pm VIP Patron Party). Tickets are $15 in advance for general admission and $25 at the door. Unfortunately the VIP tickets are sold out. There are plenty of food vendors (lots of sushi and mush more), drinks, entertainment by Flow Tribe, and a vendor fair. Purchase at Ticketmaster.com, Lakefront Arena Box Office, select Wal-Mart locations, or charge-
by-phone at 800.745.3000. Sunday, August 16, 2015 Get your sweet tooth satisfied at the Sicilian Sweets and Southern Spirits fundraiser at Little Vic’s (719 Toulouse Street) from 7 – 10pm. This Southern Decadence Fundraiser is hosted by Little Vic’s and Frankie Fierce. $30 gets you an open bar, dessert bar and live music by the Lagniappe Brass Band. Thursday, August 20, 2015 Come out to the 3rd Thursday Event sponsored by the Gulf South Chamber/ LGBT Chamber at Philip’s Bar and Restaurant (733 Cherokee Street) from 6 – 8pm. Delaney & Robb is one of the only firms in Louisiana focused exclusively on meeting the needs of LGBT clients and their families. I have to say, I love their gay break-up ad, genius. They understand that LGBT families have the same loving relationships as opposite-sex couples, and that even with the dawn of marriage equality, the legal, financial, estate planning, and family law needs can be different. They will present an overview of these issues, as well as cocktails and conversation. The $5 cover also gets you all the tacos you can handle plus 2 for 1 Mexican beers and $5 doubles on margaritas and sangria. Friday, August 21, 2015 Come win a kewpie doll or stuffed animal at the Southern Decadence Street Carnival at Tulane Avenue Bar (3813 Tulane Avenue) starting at 5pm. There will be carnival games, live music, food, raffles, and plenty of prizes to be won. There will also have a drag show at 8pm featuring former grand marshals and guests. Saturday, August 22, 2015 Join us for a night under the stars as we gather to celebrate Belle Reve New Orleans at their Starry Night Gala 2015 sponsored by Avita Pharmacy. The event takes place at Generations Hall from 8 – 11pm. There will be great food, drinks and Mobile Music Unlimited is returning to keep guests on the dance floor all night long! Prices are Patron Tables - $500; Guest Tables - $350; Patron Ticket - $125 and Individual Tickets - $60. Tickets are available at: https:// starrynightgala.eventbrite.com/ Saturday, August 22, 2015 Get back to your Southern Decadent roots at the Y’all Come As Your Favorite Southern Decadent – A Southern Decadence Fundraiser at the Hotel Storyville (1261 Esplanade Avenue). It all began in 1972 with a going away party for Michael Evers consisting of gays, straights, blacks and whites, at Belle Reve, 2110 Barracks St. There was no parade. The first invitation read: Y’all Come to the Dress Up As Your Favorite Southern Decadent Party at Belle Reve, 2110 Barracks, late afternoon, Sunday, September 3rd 1972. What began in 1972 as an end-of-summer party among a small group of friends has transformed itself into a Quarter-wide weekend celebration.
The first costume party was a farewell to Michael Evers, who was leaving New Orleans. Now, 44 years later, his spirit, wit and sense of frivolity continue. Come to an evening of Decadent History, Fabulous Entertainment, Revelry, and Fun. Dress up as your favorite Southern Decadent, enter the costume contest and show off your decadent side. There will be a Silent Auction also. Tickets: VIP - $100 (Become a Pearl Sponsor) which gets you a Special VIP Reception with Hors d’oeuvres and open bar starting at 6pm. General Admission is $25 at 7pm and includes Hors d’oeuvres and open bar. Entertainment is from the Dapper Dandies with special guests Bella Blue. Sunday, August 23, 2015 Start seeing Double this decadence at the SDS: Sunday Decadence Social at the Double Play (430 Dauphine Street) from 3 – 5pm. There will be a buffet, show, auctions and prizes. There is a $10 donation at the door with your 2nd drink free on owners Chuck & Bill benefiting Southern Decadence Charities.
Party Down Well, I had quite the busy week filled with surprises both in and out of town. I started my two weeks in NOLA and ended it in Boston. Quite the whirlwind, so let’s follow the adventure. My two weeks of events began on Tuesday night for a dedication reception to one of the brightest proponents of our city and a hospitality legend Lisa Sins who succumbed to cancer earlier this year. In her honor a specially designed Muses boot was created for the Muse shoe wall located in Club 44 connected to the Louisiana Superdome. The wall consists of uniquely designed footwear of fabulous women who contributed to the betterment of our city. Lisa joins other
Lisa Sins memorial boot at Club 44 great women like Leah Chase and Gayle Benson. I cannot think of a more fitting remembrance for a much beloved person. On Wednesday I had two hospitality events, the first was a reception for the National Association of Caterers and Events (NACE) at Morton’s. If you have not been to this well-known steakhouse, then make your reservations now. The food was absolutely wonderful. Then I stopped in for New Orleans Magazine’s Top Female Achievers Reception at the Board of Trade. And no I did not win. The event awarded an array of ladies who are in business and the arts. Thursday was Dining Out for Life, which mom and I chose the Steak Knife restaurant in Lakeview for our choice. The food was great and many of the LGBT family came out to the event. Also one of my favorite hostesses with the most work there, the sassy and fun Alexis Segreto! On Saturday it was all about the Smatch. Smatch Game that is, as I was one of the guests stars at Misti Ates Smatch Game fundraiser for Southern Decadence at the Pelican Bay Restaurant. Ms. Elizabeth Bouvier and I transformed ourselves again into Patsy and Edina form Absolutely Fabulous. The event was a huge success
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It’s always good to see a new theater enter the line-up of available venues in town, and while The Theatre at St. Claude is not technically new (it’s previously been the AllWays and the Marigny Theater), it’s now under the management of Jim and Ryan Fitzmorris. Long may it flourish! Its first production (not counting Generate Ink’s Strays in June which fulfilled a previous commitment) is The Book of Liz by The Talent Family aka siblings Amy (Strangers with Candy) and David (The Santaland Diaries) Sedaris. In Liz, Sister Elizabeth Donderstock, a devout, but not entirely subservient, member of a cloistered religious community, The Squeamish, finds herself existentially adrift after she is removed from the responsibility of making the celebrated cheese balls that have financially sustained the sect. Feeling unappreciated, Liz decides to go out into the big world, where she encounters Cockney-accented Ukrainians and winds up working at a Pilgrim-themed chain restaurant where her simple attire blends right in. Ultimately, the now more worldly Sister realizes she’s happiest back with the Squeamish with whom she feels most comfortable. Broad themes pop up amidst the wacky plot, including change versus tradition, and the equating of religious cant with the platitudes of 12-step organizations as all the workers at the restaurant are AA alums. But what I found most interesting was the issue of religious freedom that arises when the restaurant chain, Plymouth Crock, requires Liz to wear a new uniform that goes against her beliefs. What in 2001, when the play debuted, might have been a minor matter that understandably causes Liz to head back to her Amish-like community would now be the basis for a federal lawsuit that Liz would probably win. (It also kinda seemed as though the Sedarises were supporting those who would use “religious freedom” appeals to discriminate against glbt folks, but I don’t think that was their intention. Such talk of “broad themes” is probably taking The Book of Liz too seriously though,
and if you’re a Sedaris fan, I’d say just go see it. On the other hand, if you’re not into their droll humor (and I fall into this category), I doubt this will change your opinion of them. Book of Liz is filled with arbitrary silliness, like one of those Ukrainians working in a Mr. Peanut outfit, that never fully pays off; as my colleague Theodore P. Mahne noted “There are no belly-busting laughs here.” Yes, there are chuckles, but the only truly funny thing was the utter incongruity of a reference to a llama. Maybe it’s just me, but when you live in New Orleans, a situation in which you’re surrounded by graduates of AA isn’t funny per se, it’s reality. Still, this tight, 80-minute production offers easy, summertime amusement. Margeaux Fanning brings an appealing sweetness to Sister Elizabeth and provides the requisite backbone as well. I could imagine a more boldly comic portrayal but Fanning’s seems just right. Completing the cast, Kyle Daigrepont, Joel Derby and Kathryn Talbot are all game for this ridiculous (in both its traditional and Ludlamesque senses) tale, and assuredly slip in and out of a diverse assortment of characters. Daigrepont’s leader of the Squeamish is severe without being a complete ogre, while he makes Duncan, the light-on-hisfeet restaurant manager, gay but not too too gay. Derby’s cherubic face and cheery mien nicely soften his less-than-nice characters. Talbot brings a different comic bearing to each of her six roles though their various
network with great clients and our other offices from around the world. I met my partners in China, Dubai, London, Ireland, Mexico as well as all over the United States. Each day we sponsored events in and around Boston. Our opening reception was held at the Museum of Science, which was amazing, on the bay and catered by Wolfgang Puck. The Museum of Science is an interactive museum with over 700 exhibits and an IMAX theatre. It is an immense venue that is cool and educational. We also took a private cruise on the Spirit of Boston in the Harbor. The boat is gorgeous especially for private events and they had some fun interactive activities like manicures and a glitter tattoo station. I of course got a nautical tattoo of a mermaid juggling starfish done in purple and pink. How very Butch of me. I also took a special private tour of the Harvard Campus and architectural boat tour on the Charles River. Harvard was just breathtaking. Some fun quick facts about this Ivy league school. Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It was established in 1636 by the Massachusetts legislature and soon thereafter named for John Harvard (its first benefactor). Harvard is the United States’ oldest institution of higher learning. Although never formally affiliated with any denomination, the early College primarily trained Congregation-alist and Unitarian clergy. Its curriculum and student body were gradually secularized during the 18th century, and by the 19th century Harvard had emerged as the central cultural establishment among Boston elites. Following the American Civil War, President Charles W. Eliot’s long tenure (1869–1909) transformed the college and
affiliated professional schools into a modern research university; Harvard was a founding member of the Association of American Universities in 1900. James Bryant Conant led the university through the Great Depression and World War II and began to reform the curriculum and liberalize admissions after the war. The undergraduate college became coeducational after its 1977 merger with Radcliffe College. The University is organized into eleven separate academic units—ten faculties and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study—with campuses throughout the Boston metropolitan area: its 209-acre main campus is centered on Harvard Yard in Cambridge, approximately 3 miles northwest of Boston; the business school and athletics facilities, including Harvard Stadium, are located across the Charles River in the Allston neighborhood of Boston and the medical, dental, and public health schools are in the Longwood Medical Area. Harvard has the largest financial endowment of any academic institution in the world, standing at $32.3 billion as of June 2013. And it is also the number one employer in the Boston area. Harvard’s alumni include eight U.S. presidents, several foreign heads of state, sixty-two living billionaires and 335 Rhodes Scholars. It is truly worth taking a tour when you visit Boston. Afterwards, we boarded a boat which took us up and down the Charles River looking at the unique architecture of the city. Some of the more fascinating sights was the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Ray and Maria Stata Center by Frank Gehry and The John Hancock Tower by I. M. Pei & Partners. That evening we had an old fashioned clambake at the outside patio of the Royal Sonesta Hotel (my hotel) that included live
trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
The Book of Liz at The Theatre at St. Claude through Aug. 15
under the gaydar ...from 20 as we were joined by other celebrities like Liza Minelli, Kris Jenner, Lady Gaga, just to name a few. Afterwards, some friends and I traipsed over to the Tulane Avenue Bar to check out their drag show, and then ended the evening at Mags 940 just in time to see the crowning of Miss Gay Gulf States America. After a final nightcap at the Phoenix, Elizabeth and I walked back to my house in heels that were killing us. Heels are never made to walk in for more than five hours. My new rule. The next week on Tuesday, I attended the Gout de Petronius at the Munch Factory. The event was sold out as our group took over most of the restaurant. This acclaimed eatery served a delicious three course meal to the krewe and its many supporters. Excellent cuisine and good friends, not this is what a social club is all about. And of you have not been to the Munch Factory on Elysian Fields; check them out, some great comfort food. Wednesday, I did the hop. The Sake Hop is a prequel to Sushi Fest coming to the Lakefront Arena on Sunday, August 16. Five bars served free sake tastings as guests walked around the Quarter sampling the Asian libations. I had a blast checking out the venues like Patrick’s Bar Vin, the 21st Amendment, May Bailey’s, Bourbon O and Vive. Even the torrential downpour did not dampen guests spirits are stop them on their drinking quest. The following day I was surprised with a last minute trip to Boston for work. The event company hosts an annual forum for clients in a different city and this year, I was asked to attend at the last minute literally told on Wednesday, flew out on Thursday. This was an incredible opportunity for me to
nationalities do demand about one accent more than she offers. Director Jim Fitzmorris wisely keeps his staging simple, the pace quick, and mercifully never camps things up which I could see other productions succumbing to. Yet reading the rapturous reviews of the original premiere, I couldn’t help but wonder if something essential was missing at the Theatre at St. Claude, perhaps a bit of the “spirit,” as one of the Sisters puts it, that the Squeamish cheese balls lack after Sister Elizabeth’s departure. Then again, what do I know? I’m about as much an afficionado of cheese balls as I am of those Sedaris kids.
Kingdom of Earth at The MCC of New Orleans through Aug. 16 Just as it’s always good to welcome new venues, it’s a pleasure to welcome new producing entities and so a hearty “Hello!” to The Tennessee Williams Theatre Company of New Orleans. That said, I find it curious that TWTCNO chose Kingdom of Earth for their inaugural production. Its original Broadway outing lasted only a few weeks in 1968, the beginning of a not very successful period for Williams. Referring to its over-the-top Southern Gothic plot and characters, Clive Barnes in his New York Times review wrote “the suspicion arises that Mr. Williams is writing a parody of Mr. Williams,” a sentiment echoed two years later by Vincent Canby in his assessment of the screen version (known as Last of the Mobile Hot Shots). Now one can certainly hope that a revival like this would allow Kingdom of Earth to be rediscovered as an overlooked
[continued on 25] music, steamed mussels, clams and lobsters and a beautiful view of the sunset on the Harbor. The weather was cool and there was a full blue moon out, just memorable. Our final night evening on Sunday was held at the John F. Kennedy presidential Library and Museum which was a gorgeous event space. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to the memory of our nation’s thirty-fifth president and to all those who through the art of politics seek a new and better world. Located on a ten-acre park, overlooking the sea that he loved and the city that launched him to greatness, the Library stands as a vibrant tribute to the life and times of John F. Kennedy. The Museum portrays the life, leadership, and legacy of President Kennedy, conveys his enthusiasm for politics and public service, and illustrates the nature of the office of the President. When we arrived we were greeted by the Minutemen Militia Band as we entered the facility and took a tour of the museum before going to their private event space area with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the city and harbor. Another unforgettable evening that was not over, when we arrived back at the hotel there was another after party that went on to the wee hours of the morning with an open regular bar and coffee and after dinner liquor bar, live dance band and DJ. All I have to say that it was a happy surprise to the end of my week. Until next issue, I leave you with a great quote from a John F. Kennedy “One person can make a difference and everyone should try.”
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There’s something happening here What it is ain’t exactly clear There’s a man with a gun over there Telling me I got to beware I think it’s time we stop, children, what’s that sound Everybody look what’s going down Buffalo Springfield For What it’s worth , 1967. I realized that in my last article titled, The Wisdom of Jerome, that I did not say a word about Jerome – so much for my own personal A.D.D.! There is a wizened old face with creases that speak of time and trials. He is a denizen of the Treme and Seventh Ward. This old face that smiles on occasion and frown’s on others has assumed an almost mystical presence. He is tall spare and moves with a slowness that only time and burden can induce. Some admire him, some despise him, he is often harshly critical using the language of the Civil Rights movement in the 1960s which gentrified white’s have a hard time with. In this day and age his language seems harsh and out of place. This is some of that uncomfortable language: Jarvis DeBerry quotes him as saying,
“young white people are valued as children while their black counterparts are “still seen as cargo.” Our “mission is not civil rights. We demand that our humanity be respected.” Feeling a little uncomfortable at this point? I know that I always feel a little uncomfortable around Jerome. Yet, Jerome represents a creditable and important part of our community – yes, A Community within Communities. He represents a part of our ‘Downtown” culture and people that still need listening too. He hasn’t given up the cause. Jerome was a Freedom Rider in 1961; he was in the ‘sit ins’ later in New Orleans; he was a member of CORE and spoke directly to Dr. King, he is a living legacy that still has voice and still has the tenacity to see bigotry and call it out. Beyond calling it out he does something about conditions for these little souls that are “still seen as cargo.” A couple of articles ago I wrote about the nexus or meeting point of several things happening in a quickly changing world: The Wimberley flood, Sister Emmanuel Church, local murders, and the Supreme Court ruling on same sex marriage all in two weeks. Jerome’s focus might be singular in that his
passion is for the children of Treme and likely all children of color. We share this desire to see our children, particularly BlackAmerican children, prosper. Jerome heads up an organization called Tambourine and Fan which provides a life line to history and culture in this quick paced world. He has taken children who are at risk and found safe places for them. He has taken children to stand in rallies in Washington D.C. he has taken them to Selma to relive “the movement.” He has kept the Dream Alive. In the same way Anna’s Place NOLA provides a safe place, a harbor from the storms of disinterest, despair, and dehumanizing violence. Jerome and Anna’s Place share this – Communities within Communities. Jerome will come by the church on occasion seeking a little financial support usually for one of these important trips. A few weeks ago he came by and we began to chat a bit which brings me to Buffalo Springfield and that anthem from so long ago. There’s something happening here What it is ain’t exactly clear There’s a man with a gun over there Telling me I got to beware It seemed to both of us that something strange is unfolding in our country. As an example: Police shootings aplenty which seem, in most cases, to be unwarranted. Then there was Emmanuel Church and the ensuing conversations about Confederate symbols and what they mean to our constituent community members. Alongside of all of that are recent deaths of police officers. These deaths and murders and increasing violence both by government and citizens seems to be a gathering storm. It is
trodding the boards ...from 22
doesn’t earn, or deserve, its 2½ hour running time; an earlier one-act version might well have been sufficient. Of course, Williams being Williams there are still phrases that tingle the ear; I especially liked “Makes as much sense as a Chinese crossword puzzle.” But an unavoidable sense exists that with Myrtle and Chicken, this much-lauded playwright is merely recycling the dynamic between Blanche and Stanley. And in Lot, Williams again seems to be trying to kill the queer in himself, only with much less subtlety than he used in Streetcar, Cat or even Suddenly, Last Summer. Thus taking on Kingdom is a challenge. For a play that has been described as “serio-comic” or a “tragicomedy,” Correro could have heightened the humor quotient; rather, I found myself laughing at its absurdities rather than with its insights. Or he could have refracted the production through a post-modern lens, reinterpreting the characters to play against their archetypal natures. Or perhaps he might have taken a less naturalistic approach that would have allowed him to employ a less cluttered set. Or something. But Correro doesn’t bring a probing directorial perspective to the production and his oftentimes static staging gets the job done but nothing more. His pacing remains the same throughout so that even the most dramatic moments, as when Myrtle performs fellatio on Chicken, pass by without an accompanying accelerando or ritardando in the action. Or even foreplay. Simply on a technical level, in the MCC’s small auditorium, unless you’re in the front row, it’s difficult to see the faces of the actors when Correro has them sitting during long stretches of the first act. Ironically, later, when the action moves upstage
to a platform, Chicken’s standing around downstage then blocks the view of Lot and Myrtle for some audience members. Fortunately, three compelling actors make up Kingdom’s cast. The excellent David Williams brings a prickly intensity to Lot, an effete young man with a prodigious mother complex (think Psycho). Kate Kuen makes Myrtle crass but counters this with an earthy voluptuousness balanced by an innately engaging manner. Sean Richmond’s Chicken is solid, potentially scary but someone who desperately wants to better himself. Still, all three tend to give one—or two—note performances. Williams, seen to great effect in last year’s Orphans, evinces all of Lot’s quirky weaknesses early on; by the second act we just get more of the same. Kuen, who displayed comic buoyancy as Celia in As You Like It and urgent grittiness as the daughter in A Lie of the Mind, gets the magnolia part right but doesn’t locate Myrtle’s steeliness as she ping-pongs back and forth between Lot and Chicken; asthma and allergies may cause Myrtle to be fluttery, which Kuen nicely captures, but we don’t see how her defenses to Chicken melt away incrementally. So far I’ve seen Richmond only as Caiaphas in Jesus Christ Superstar earlier this year, but his sonorous bass voice made for a commanding presence. Here he may not have the animal magnetism of a young Brando (who does?), but we get mean Chicken, laid back Chicken, thoughtful Chicken sequentially instead of as part of a multi-layered character. Certainly, Williams’ script doesn’t give actors as much to work with as in his major plays, but a director should be able to coax more nuanced portrayals out of a cast as talented as this one.
a community within communities by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, New Orleans Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
The Wisdom of Jerome Revisited
minor masterpiece. Or that the director, Augustin J Correro, would illuminate the text in a way that would enable an audience to go “A-ha, now I get it.” But neither is the case. Time has not been kind to Kingdom of Earth, and it comes off as much a Williams parody now as 35+ years ago. Kingdom begins with young Lot returning to his family’s decaying plantation house with his bride of two days, Myrtle, whom he married on a TV show(!). Suffice to say, Myrtle, a former burlesque queen, has not gotten to know Lot real well. When his secrets begin to spill out, it’s hard to say which shocks her more, that he’s not a natural blonde or that he’s a self-described “impotent, one-lunged, sissy with one foot in the grave.” Lot shares the Delta mansion with his half-brother Chicken, a brutish sort. Yet, sadly, Chicken has had a rough life due to his mother being black; not surprisingly given the 1960 setting, Lot’s late haughty white mother had always looked down on Chicken. Lot, however, has offered a glimmer of hope to Chicken by deeding him the homestead after Lot’s (imminent) passing. But there’s a raging storm and a neighbor planning to blow up a levee which will flood the place, and Myrtle finds herself in an apparent tug-of-war between the half-brothers. As things proceed, is it any wonder that Myrtle declares “I’ve been through a lot today.” All of this is clearly dramatic stuff, but Williams fails to endow it with the necessary theatrical tension and it slogs into melodrama. As such, this wordy Kingdom
like watching a thunderhead gathering great boiling clouds of darkness blotting out the sun with a chill wind sweeping the land before the tumult of thunder, lightening, and torrential rains. Such visions are powerful and sometimes intimidating. Do you see storm clouds gathering? I am not an alarmist and I am not proposing a massive riot or revolt I am not a survivalist. I am, I hope reasoned, yet there is something going on. That something is not an optimistic sense of prosperity; it is not a sense of hope and unbridled possibility. That is what it is not, “What it is ain’t exactly clear…” With those old eyes Jerome looked out of time and space. Like old men who have seen a lot we both quietly nodded and quietly murmured to ourselves or no one in particular, “something is going on.” That “something” is “something” that we can all see and feel. Any community that has been exposed to violence can more sensitively and acutely sense the violence and boiling discord that seems to be rising more each day. Perhaps it is the summer heat that permits us to reflect more on the state of our nation because it is too hot to do much more than reflect and think. Perhaps it is simply a rapid case of violent acts punctuated by moments of ironic joy. The Supreme Court on the one hand affirming freedom to marry and on the other hand the Government striking down the Voters Right Act as no longer a necessity, “Telling me I got to beware” in ways I’ve not thought of in so long. Complacency, perhaps that is the demon that is the gathering vortex. “It didn’t happen in my neighborhood.” Those people have language instead of ‘We the people’ language. Communities that are subject to hatred, bias, prejudice, and dehumanization probably get this or at least a whiff of what it smells like. The wisdom of Jerome, I hope, will find its way into our hearts, our minds, our faith, our churches, and our community. If we demand respect for our humanity we must demand respect for the humanity of all of God’s children. We must do so not by simply saying we agree but by actively engaging in that agreement. It is no longer
[continued on 26] One thing about this cast does stand out and it’s critical. Chicken, the son of a white father and black mother, repeatedly refers to himself as “dark-hued.” Why then Richmond, a very light-skinned actor, was cast is beyond me. Sure, perhaps Chicken thinks of himself as darker than he is, but I don’t recall any mention of that being made. Interestingly, the photo on the cover of the program makes Richmond appear several shades darker than he is while covering him with dirt or oily grease, and keeping part of him in shadows. And had he’d been the only actor in New Orleans who could’ve done this role, I’d’ve understood his casting. But I don’t buy that. Rather an opportunity was missed which could’ve added a vital layer of emotional complexity to the production. (Note: the African-American actor Robert Hooks played Chicken in the film adaptation.) As with all works of art, different people have opposite opinions of the same thing, and some people I know who saw Kingdom of Earth the same night as I did felt it was an extremely worthy presentation. The TWTCNO’s next show will be Small Craft Warnings in December. I hope that I shall be able to trumpet it as a success.
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the legal corner by Attorney Troy A. Tureau Email: thelawprofessor@comcast.net
Disabled? You Might Qualify For Social Security Disability Payments! I’m feeling really good right now. I chose to become an attorney because I really wanted to help people. Unfortunately, I learned quite quickly that those opportunities don’t come around as often as I would like. Today is a different story, though - I just won Social Security Disability payments for a client who is severely physically and emotionally disabled. Far from being the glamorous occupation that is almost always portrayed on screen, the practice of law does have some perks. One of them, for me, is the satisfaction of knowing that I was able to make a difference in another person’s life.
matters of healkth by Jack Carrel, MPH Email: jackcarrel@gmail.com In searching the media for interesting and useful LGBTQ health notes, the following caught my attention.
Opposites Attract But Don’t Transmit According to Andrew Grulich, chief investigator at the Kirby Institute, interim results for a study looking at HIV transmissions between sero-discordant gay couples (where one partner is HIV positive and one partner is HIV negative) has found zero HIV transmissions. This is true where the positive partner is on treatment and has an undetectable viral load. The results reflect similar outcomes to that seen in overseas research such as the ‘Partner study’ which also reported zero transmissions between sero-discordant heterosexual couples where the positive partner was on treatment. The Opposites Attract results come at a halfway point in the study, but the chief investigator Professor Andrew Grulich is hopeful of what the results mean for men who have sex with men (MSM) who are
communities ...from 24 acceptable to be of kind heart and relying on “can’t we all just get along.” Such seems to be too passive for this gathering storm. As we have consistently preached, written, proposed, and hoped we must be an engaged Community within Communities that goes beyond our own boundaries. We may not always like what we hear especially if it is honestly critical of how we have lived our lives. But let us at least listen instead of polarizing ourselves. Jerome makes me uncomfortable and I want to thank him for this discomfort. In my discomfort I am energized to insure that the children of Treme can and must be respected for their humanity beyond good wishes and invested in with vigor or there may be no end to the demon of poverty and disenfranchisement in our little piece of New Orleans or Atlanta or Houston. WE THE PEOPLE must be the starting point not, “There’s a man with a gun over there, telling me I got to beware…” Jerome asks this, ‘do what Jesus did.’
living with HIV. “These are very exciting results that seem to mirror findings from other important international studies of heterosexual couples, which have provided strong evidence that treatment as prevention works,” said Grulich. “Essentially, what we are seeing among the gay couples enrolled in Opposites Attract is that HIV transmission is quite unlikely when someone’s viral load is undetectable. In fact, no HIV-negative man in the study has contracted HIV from his positive partner.”
Depression Associated with Risky Sex HIV-negative gay men who have several symptoms of depression are more likely to report sex without a condom, according to a study presented in June to the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) conference. Of those surveyed, 12.5% of HIV-negative gay men attending sexual health clinics had depressive symptoms at the time. (This is considerably higher than in the general population but roughly half the rate seen in a comparable survey of HIV-positive people.) While for most, the symptoms were moderate, 5.5% had more severe symptoms. Depression was more common in men who were younger, had money problems, did not have a college degree and were not in an ongoing relationship. It was also more common among regular smokers, heavy drinkers and men who used multiple recreational drugs. Respondents were asked about various measures of intercourse without a condom in the past three months – with anybody (reported by 63% of all men), with two or more partners (reported by 32%) and with a partner of unknown or HIV-positive status
So u t h e r n De c a d e n c e DEA DL I N E Friday, Aug. 21
504.522.8049
I am sure that you probably know at least one person who has filed for disability and was turned down. Sadly, that is the norm. The great majority of people who apply for Social Security Disability are denied the first time they apply. As disappointing as that it is, the fact that you were denied does not mean that you will not get Social Security Disability payments. Approximately 66% of claimants who appeal their denial and move on to the hearing stage in front of an administrative law judge end up winning their case! Having an attorney represent you in the appeal hearing can improve the chance of winning your case substantially. Now, you’re probably wondering what exactly Social Security Disability is and how do you qualify. Generally, you must qualify for one of two programs: “SSDI,” which is based on work credits (you must have worked long enough to have paid a sufficient amount into the system), and “SSI,” the low-income program which requires that your income and assets are low enough to qualify. Next, you have to prove that your medical condition is a disability as required by the Social Security Administration. This aspect is usually the biggest hurdle that a claimant has to overcome. To be considered disabled, a person must have a medical impairment (medical, psychological or psychiatric) which has kept them or is expected to keep them from performing “substantial gainful employment” for at least twelve months.
Currently, to be considered substantial gainful employment, a job must pay over $1,090 a month. In a small amount of cases, certain illnesses automatically qualify. In the remaining cases, a claimant’s medical records must contain current evidence of the impairment and how it prevents the claimant from working. Additionally, the Social Security Administration will often look to see if the claimant is capable of performing duties of a past job or another job with medium, light or sedentary duties. Congress established the program to assist people who suffer from an impairment that prevents them from working. If you believe that you qualify for one of the Social Security disability programs, I encourage you to apply. If your initial claim has been denied, it is crucial that an appeal is filed on your behalf within the time required by law. I urge you to contact me or another qualified attorney if you have any questions regarding a Social Security disability claim. As always, I invite your comments and questions. (These are the personal views of Troy A. Tureau, and nothing here is intended to be legal advice of any kind.) Troy A. Tureau, J.D., L.LM., Attorney at Law, Tureau Legal, 4631 S. Carrolton Ave., New Orleans, LA 70119, thelawprofessor@comcast.net 504.308.1608.
(reported by 37%). Men with depressive symptoms were more likely to report all of these behaviors. The associations remained statistically significant after adjustment for demographic and lifestyle factors that could skew the results: age, ethnicity, education, relationship status, geography, drug use, heavy drinking and smoking.
personal bias as self-caution, organizational policies that promote objective decision-making, and inclusion of counter-stereotypical experiences in educational programs,” the authors conclude.
Healthcare Providers, Bias & Sexual Orientation A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health found there is widespread implicit bias toward lesbian women and gay men. This is the first study that looked at a variety of healthcare providers and their implicit attitudes towards gay men and lesbians. Janice Sabin, lead researcher on the project and professor at the University of Washington, said the study found that moderate to strong implicit preferences for straight people over lesbian and gay people are widespread among heterosexual providers. Also lesbian and gay health providers expressed implicit and explicit preferences for lesbian and gay people over straight people. Bisexual providers were found to have mixed preferences, mental health providers held the weakest implicit bias for heterosexual people over lesbian and gay people and nurses held the strongest implicit bias for heterosexual people over lesbian and gay people. In short, healthcare providers, similar to others in society, hold a bias for people who shared their own sexual identity. Sabin said, “training for healthcare providers about treating sexual minority patients is an area in great need of attention.” “For healthcare organizations that aim to serve these populations, these data suggest an opportunity to examine methods likely to mitigate implicit biases, such as eliminating discretion from decision-making, use of clinical guidelines, awareness of
Twitter and Transgender Health According to a study from UCLA, twitter could provide important information about health needs for the transgender community. In the study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, the researchers reported that because transgender and gender-nonconforming people frequently use social media to discuss important health and social needs, resources like Twitter may provide a wealth of useful information for doctors and public health professionals. “Transgender individuals are at risk for some of the most important public health problems, such as HIV, substance abuse and depression,” said Sean Young, the study’s co-author. “There has been little research studying transgender communities because they can be very closed communities who fear stigmatization. Young and co-author Evan Krueger collected 1,135 tweets with 13 relevant hashtags, including terms like #trans or #girlslikeus. The tweets discussed issues such as violence, discrimination, suicide and sexual risk. “This approach can be used to better understand people, prevent diseases and predict important trends — including views on policies that affect transgender populations or changes in health,” said Krueger, a doctoral student at the UCLA School of Public Health. Jack Carrel, MPH is Director of Prevention is a doctoral student in public health epidemiology at Walden University and has worked in HIV, STDs and gay and transgender health for over 30 years.
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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 LOUNGE, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0953
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New Orleans, LA [504] Troy A. Tureau, J.D., L.LM., Attorney at Law, Tureau Legal, 4631 S. Carrolton Ave., New Orleans, LA 70119, 504.308.1608 thelawprofessor@comcast.net
bars Mobile, AL [251] B-Bob's Downtown, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, B-Bobs.COM Flip Side Bar & Patio, 54 S. Conception St., 431.8819, FlipSideBarPatio.COM GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWN PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 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, SPLASH, 2183 Highland Rd., 242.9491, SplashBR.COM Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457
chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., 1526 Magazine, 566.1833 [is1515]
RT PA M RA
French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
attorneys
New Orleans, LA [504] "HEAD TO ME" Good looking WM servicing the FQ, DT hotels, B&B's, Uptown, Bywater, etc. OR, you can CUM to me! (near the 2000 block of Canal St.) Private and discreet. Shower avail. Rates starting at $45. Call, text, Allan @ (504) 250-8356 or email bd1200207@yahoo.com. [is1615]
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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
ORLEANS
DUMAINE
FR
Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921
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 THE BLACK PENNY, 700 N. Rampart 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 LUCKY PIERRE'S, 735 Bourbon St., 586.1836, LuckyPierresNOLA.com OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM
circuit/events 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 Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2015, Halloween 32, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.com Dec. 26, 2015-Jan. 1, 2016, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.com Feb. 5-9, 2016, 67th Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.com Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016, 17th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.com
costumes New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633
florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
galleries New Orleans, LA [504] CASSELL-BERGEN GALLERY, 1305 Decatur St., cassellbergengallery.com, 504.524.0671
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
groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416
hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] Head Quarters Hair Salon, 906 Bourbon St., 522.2666 Kinky Straight, 907 Iberville, 475.5901 Mickey Nolan's Salon, 717 Toulouse St., 587.7782 Two Guys Cutting Hair, 2372 St. Claude Ave., Suite 125, appointments: Adikus 215.519.5030, Trent 504.239.2397
hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465
lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, www.ingramhaus.com/xqey, e-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queen-size 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. [0715] 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. [0815] CHATEAU LEMOYNE FRENCH QUARTER, 301 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70112, Phone: 504.581.1303, http:// www.hiclneworleanshotelsite.com/gayhotelsnew-orleans. Enjoy a stay enriched with the culture and history of New Orleans at Chateau LeMoyne. Our historic building features all the best of old-time architecture and our prime location allows guests to stay just steps from the French Quarter, while still at enough distance to enjoy a peaceful night’s rest. Versatile guest accommodations include charmingly appointed suites and cottages, while on-site amenities include drinks and dining, a scenic courtyard area and pool, and meeting and event space. When you’re ready to explore, top New Orleans attractions are only moments away. We look forward to welcoming you to the “Big Easy.” [0915] ELYSIAN GUEST HOUSE, 1008 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117, Phone: 1.504.324.4311, info@elysianguesthouse.com. The Elysian Guest House is within walking distance to all the fun spots. Five to steps to a few blocks to all the action. We have a Jacuzzi too. Call and lets talk. [1115] THE FRENCH QUARTER GUEST HOUSES, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 1.800.367.5858, FrenchQuarterGuestHouses.com, email: Info@frenchquarterguesthouses.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
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operated French Quarter hotel that has been beautifully transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites. Several historical townhouses are also available to accommodate larger groups of up to 26. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St., free WiFi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available. NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.522.7333, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com, Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. A 19th century home that has been historically restored and transformed into a locally owned and operated hotel. Experience the rich history and hospitality of New Orleans at an affordable price. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St, free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available.
marketing & printing New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812, 586.9817, offering printing and marketing services including web design and hosting. info@sirspeedyneworleans.com, sirspeedyneworleans.com
massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage (Swedish/Deep Tissue); heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & Thai/Sport Stretching massage). Call/text 504.458.5996 / For pictures http://www.christophernola.com. License #LA4553 [is2515]
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 BreakOUT! builds the power of youth ages 13-25 in New Orleans to end the criminalization of LGBTQ youth of color, 504.252.9025, 1001 S. Broad St. #119, NOLA 70125, @youthbreakout, www.youthbreakout.org, COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY 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 HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance Region Two, Inc.), 4550 North Blvd. Ste. 250, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, 225.927.1269, www.haartinc.org, offers a complete continuum of care to people living with HIV/AIDS including housing, primary care, medications, case management, and an array of supportive services. In addition HAART provides HIV prevention education and FREE testing to the Baton Rouge area. HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush KREWE OF AMON-RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF NARCISSUS, PO Box 3832, New Orleans, LA 70177. Contact: 504.228.9441 KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 1102, Kenner, LA. 70063-1102, www.kreweofpetroius.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 LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, 1308 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116,
504.475.7911, www.lgbtarchivesla.org LORDS OF LEATHER, 1631 Elysian Fields, #161, 70117, www.lordsofleather.org Louisiana Equality Foundation, serving the Louisiana LGBT Community through education, activism, and awareness. www. l o u i s i a n a e q u a l i t y f o u n d a t i o n . o r g , info@louisianaequalityfoundation.org 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, 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 PHARMACY, offers personalized, convenient care to those affected by chronic illnesses. Avita offers free delivery, co-pay assistance, benefit coordination, and refill reminder calls as well as access to a pharmacist 24/7. Every prescription filled today helps Avita give back to the community tomorrow. www.avitapharmacy.com New Orleans, LA [504] AVITA PHARMACY, offers personalized, convenient care to those affected by chronic illnesses. Avita offers free delivery, co-pay assistance, benefit coordination, and refill reminder calls as well as access to a pharmacist 24/7. Every prescription filled today helps Avita give back to the community tomorrow. www.avitapharmacy.com MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312, www.MumfreysPharmacy.COM. Supporting & serving the LGBT Community for over 20 years. Local pharmacy offering personalized family-like service, automatic refills & free metro wide confidential pickup & delivery. Also offering shipping for out-side our delivery area. When you call us you speak to a person, not a machine. See our ad.
photography New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com
plastic surgery New Orleans, LA [504] New Orleans Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery, Parker A. Velargo, M.D., Dr. Russell Hendrick, Jr., M.D., 2633 Napoleon Ave., Ste. 920, www.plasticsurgerynola.com, 504.533.8848
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] Addiction Coffee House, 909 Iberville St., 475.5900 801 Royal, 801 Royal St., 581.0801, 801Royal.com The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, 577.2237, www.bombayclubneworleans.com Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, 819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http://broussards.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 Little Vic’s Rosticceria, 719 Toulouse, 304.1238 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 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 CUIR, 708 Toulouse St., 249.5603 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 NEW ORLEANS FRINGE FESTIVAL, NOFringe.ORG
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
Decadence Deadline Aug. 21
504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com
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Johnny Passion’s 2nd Annual Smatch Game raises $1,368 for Southern Decadence 2015 @ Pelican Bay ~ Photos by Robert Mac Reynolds
ambush
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Feast of the Gods & SDGMs XLI Poster Signing raises $524 for Southern Decadence 2015 @ The Golden Lantern ~ Photos by Chad Boutte
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32 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • August 11-31, 2015 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide© • Sout her nDec adenc e.c om
Miss Cie Visiting friends in New Orleans @ The Golden Lantern The wedding of Brenda (Turner) & Brenda Pitts @ Flip Side... Congratulations ladies!
AJ McKay with Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contestants
big easy
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The Golden Lantern Reba Douglas show with Koo & Marty
Miss B-Bob’s Peachus Van Cartier with Jawakatema
B-Bob’s bartender Leon & Flip Side bartender Jack Pierre attending Bleather festivities Hello Gavin
Leon with Mr. Big Easy Leather Matthew Birkoff, Dusty & Paris Manchester @ Bleather 2015
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New Orleans finest visiting B-Bob’s in Mobile
Matthew & Cory @ Flip Side Bar & Patio
Brenda, Flip Side bartender Corey, Sherry & Champagne Munroe @ B-Bob’s
Welcome home AJ McKay
The Boys @ B-Bob’s with Miss Cie
B-Bob’s hostess & emcee Jawakatema Davenport
Jeremy & Gang @ Flip Side Patio Bar in Mobile
Gabriel’s own Mr Ricky @ Flip Side Patio Bar in Mobile
Mobile friends visiting The Golden Lantern in New Orleans
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Singing on the Bayou raises $275 for Southern Decadence 2015 @ the Marshall Harris Mansion ~ New Orleans
Bleather Weekend, The Big Easy ~ Mobile, Alabama; New Orleans, Louisiana ~ Photos by Leon Weekley, Miss Cie
Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contestants: Phillip, Kyle, Justin & Ted
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Bartenders Paul & Bradly welcome you to Rawhide
Head Quarters in its new location @ 906 Bourbon St.
Good Friends' bartenders Joseph, Richard & Robert Bartenders Richie, Tim & Wayne hail from the Bourbon Pub & Parade Catch Head Quarters now next to Clover Grill on Bourbon St.
Sally-FLY’s Rip & Marsha flank Etienne & Black Penny’s Tandie @ The Black Penny
Bartender Kevin Limberg welcomes guest bartender, the legendary bar owner Diane Dimiceli, to Cutter’s
Cousin’s Marsha, Cindy, Butch & Rip @ catch the tail end of the Red Dress Run
Ray & Jeffrey cocktailin’ @ 700 Club
Legendary bar owner Diane Dimiceli & GrandPre’s Ken GrandPre @ Cutter’s
Manager Kevin Red Dress Run ready @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile
SDGMs XLI Rip & Marsha join bartender Paul @ 700 Club
SDGMs XLI Rip & Marsha join legendary bar owner Diane Dimiceli @ Cutter’s
Shawn, Rawhide’s Eric & The Cheesy Cajun’s Michael @ Lafitte’s
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The Red Dress Run 2015 ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Cindy & Butch Peno
The Social Scene ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin, Darwin Reed
SDGMs XLI Rip, XL Arthur & XLI Marsha join Ignacio & SDGM XL Aubrey @ Lafitte’s
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