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bara Ella/2014, and KCQ XXII: Queen of the Opera, Aubrey Synclaire/2015. For additional information, visit www.GayMardiGas.com/KCQ.
the "official" dish
King Alex Leads 24th Barkus Parade Jan. 31
by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Oz & Ambush Magazine host 52nd Annual Bourbon Street Awards Worth $3,000 in Cash Prizes Feb. 9 with World Famous Bianca Del Rio The 52nd Annual Bourbon Street Awards show, the ultimate costume contest, is set for Mardi Gras day, February 9, 2016 at 12noon. Oz New Orleans presents this fantastic contest sponsored by Ambush Magazine right in front Oz on Bourbon Street. Award category prizes are worth a total of $3,000! Categories include: Best Drag, Best Leather, Best Group and Best of Show with 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in each category. First place in each category wins $500 cash. The Best Overall Costume, the grandest award of all, garners a whopping $1,000 cash prize. Celebrity emcees will feature the talents of world famous, and RuPaul’s Drag Race Winner Bianca Del Rio and New Orleans' Blanche Debris. The 52nd Annual Bourbon Street Awards will be “The Best Free Show of Mardi Gras.” Oz, located at 800 Bourbon Street, has won both Dance Club and Show Club of the Year by popular vote of Ambush Magazine readers for many years. For additional information, visit www.GayMardiGras.com, and www.OzNewOrleans.com.
King Cake Queen XXII Aubrey Synclaire leads 29th Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss Feb. 9 Celebrating the 67th Gay Mardi Gras, Aubrey Synclaire will lead the 29th Annual Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss Tuesday, Feb. 9 beginning at 2pm. It all takes place from the world famous balcony at Ambush Mansion, 828 Bourbon Street, between Oz and Bourbon Pub Parade, and Cafe Lafitte in Exile and Clover Grill. The 22nd King Cake Queen of Gay KCQ V: The She Devil, Elizabeth Simms/ Mardi Gras is the first in history to continue 1998, her reign into a second year returning as KCQ VI: The Czarina, the late Christine Queen of the Opera: Act II. Co-Captains of Cheridon/1999, the Krewe of Queenateenas added this KCQ VII: Sex Goddess, Stephanie interesting twist to this short Carnival sea- Williams/2000, son due to private family obligations which KCQ VIII: The Peacock Queen, Phyllis require the co-captains to remain out of Denmark/2001, town for much of the season. KCQ IX: The Freedom Queen, Lisa Only 50 guests are invited to the Bead Beaumann/2002, Toss each year, 10 from the reigning queen, KCQ X: The Voodoo Queen, Teryland 40 from the co-captains. The King Lynn Foxx/2003, Cake Queen is chosen from those revelers KCQ XII: The Amazon Queen, Savanna participating. The individual exhibiting the DeLorean/2005, most enthusiasm and expertise in bead KCQ XIII: The Diamond Queen, Raven toss techniques is chosen to reign as King Kennedy/2006, Cake Queen the following year. KCQ XIV: The Fantasy Queen, The official photographer of the King Princesse Stephaney/2007, Cake Queens, Larry Graham, has proKCQ XV: The Fleur de Lis Queen, duced three portraits this year reflecting the Marsha Naquin-Delain/2008, true meaning of Mardi Gras: PURPLE repKCQ XVI: The Grandee Queen, Tami resenting Justice, GREEN Faith, and GOLD Tarmac/2009, Power. KCQ XVII: The Parisian Queen, Opal The King Cake Queen Royalty Club Masters/2010, includes: KCQ XVIII: The Chrysthemum Queen KCQ II & KCQ Emeritus: Jewel of the Rona Conners/2011, Nile, Jay A. Loomis/1995, KCQ XIX: The Samba Queen, Nicole KCQ III: The Rainbow Queen, the late DuBois/2012, Smurf Murphy/1996, KCQ XX: The Platinum Queen, Dusty KCQ IV: Pearl of the Sea, Reba Dou- Debris/2013, glas/1997, KCQ XXI: The Borghese Queen, Bar-
Giant Mardi Gras issue out Feb. 2 DEADLINE: Tues., Jan. 26
inside celebrazzi/new orleans the real cheese moments in gay new orleans history 29th gay mardi gras bead toss snap paparazzi/new orleans snap paparazzi/new orleans snap paparazzi/new orleans 52nd bourbon street awards under the gaydar
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"From The Dog House to the White House" is the theme for the 24th year of the Mystic Krewe of Barkus. King Alex, the son of Diane Lundeen, will lead the 24th parade on Sunday, Jan. 31 at 2pm. All participants in the parade must be registered. The krewe member will be given credentials and directions regarding their color-coded lineup prior to the start of the parade, a certificate of membership, and food/drink tickets redeemable at food/beverage booths day-of parade. Non-krewe members are not allowed to walk in the parade, but are welcome to enjoy the festivities day of parade, 10:30am-’til. The Krewe of Barkus accepts checks made payable to Krewe of Barkus, as well as VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. If you choose to register online, please know that the site is secure. Each krewe member’s registration includes one human escort. Additional human guests can walk with the krewe member by purchasing an escort pass for $8. Escort passes can be purchased online, at registration outlets and are available dayof-parade at the Registration Desk. Esteemed Levels of registration: Lucky Dog, Leader of the Pack and Top Dog include two, two and four human escorts, respectively. On the day of the parade plan to arrive early so that the krewe member (and the human escorts) have ample time to transition into the proper state of mind for this experience. The pre-parade Pawty starts at 10:30am on the corner of North Rampart and Orleans at Armstrong Park. Doggie and people drinks will be flowing along with all the appropriate New Orleans food items to consume at well. It is the pre-parade Pawty, so plan to hang and witness the mass of paws take to the streets of the French Quarter and the Pawty will continue until... The royal court is introduced at the stage prior to the start of the parade lineup. Royalty always leads the parade, so they are positioned in the front of all canine subjects. Proceeds from Barkus 2015 will benefit Animal Rescue New Orleans, Jefferson SPCA, Gulf South Golden Retriever Rescue, Gulf Coast Doberman Rescue, Humane Society of Louisiana, Southern Animal Foundation, and SULA Foundation. Barkus also supports the Louisiana Search and Rescue Team. Tickets for the humans-only ball on Friday, Jan. 29 can be purchased for $100 each. Reserved tables of 8 are available for $1,000, and include reserved seating for 8, four passes to VIP reviewing stand at Good Friends (12noon-5pm parade day), four passes to VIP tent 10:30-2pm parade day), two signed &
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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. ©1982-2016 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
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numbered posters and two official Krewe of Barkus tshirts. All ball attendees enjoy open bar, food and entertainment. The ball is 6pm to 10pm. $100 per person includes open bar, food presentation of the King and Queen, DJ and raffle with numerous gifts and prizes at the Windsor Court, 300 Gravier. The Mystic Krewe of Barkus is a non-profit organization founded by Wood Enterprises. Visit www.Barkus.org for more information.
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King Barkus XXIV Alex (left), the son of Diane Lundeen, will lead the 24th Mystic Krewe of Barkus Parade on Sunday, Jan. 31 celebrating “From The Dog House to the White House" in New Orleans' historic French Quarter. Visit www.Barkus.org for additional information. The Pope of Bourbon Street Rip Naquin offers his "holy" ring to the Lord of Misrule Frank Perez of the Mystik Krewe du Rue Royale Revelers upon his arrival to "officially" crown the krewe's Grand Reveler II in New Orleans on 12th Night.
The Cheese Queen of New Orleans Felicia Phillips attempts to kiss the Pope of Bourbon Street's "holy" ring when the devil possesed within her makes the Pope hat deflate, one of her attributes from her many days at the "ballet" on St. Louis Street.
Will Antil was crowned Grand Reveler II by the Pope of Bourbon Street Rip Naquin under the direction of Mystik Krewe du Rue Royale Revelers' Lord of Misrule Frank Perez with lieutenants Tommy Kelly and Phillup Smowers in attendance for ceremonies at the corner of Rue Royale and St. Ann at Perez's 3rd 12th Night bash.
Barney Williams and Eric Wallace, who are planning a June wedding at City Park in New Orleans, celebrate gaining full custody of Baby Ryan.
Mystik Krewe du Rue Royale Revelers' Grand Reveler I Jeffrey Palmquist, world famous bartender at Cafe Lafitte in Exile, serves up the best Bloody Mary on Bourbon Street complete with the "whole" salad on Sundays in New Orleans!
celebrazzi
Following the coronation of Grand Reveler II, the Meeting of the Royal Courts commenced with King Cake Queen XXII - Queen of the Opera: Act II Aubrey Synclaire and co-captain Marsha Delain representing the Krewe of Queenateenas, and Grand Reveler II Will Antil and Lord of Misrule Frank Perez representing the Mystik Krewe du Rue Royale Revelers on 12th Night.
The Big Easy Sisters of the Muddy Waters hosted their 3rd Annual Sister Gras at GrandPre's in New Orleans raising $1,422 for the different charities the Sisters patronize. A special thanks to entertainers who came and gave their time to make it a wonderful success including Misti Ates, Coca Mesa, Sable Nicole Starr, Eureeka Starfish aka Benjamin Murray, Jack Inman and Solitaire Confinement aka Bonita Folse. (Photo by Roy Guste)
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Second Official Portrait by Larry Graham of her imperial majesty King Cake Queen XXII of Gay Mardi Gras Aubrey Synclaire, Queen of the Opera: Act II in GREEN representing Faith in the colors of Carnival.
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the real cheese by Felicia Phillips Email: fphillips1011@gmail.com Photo by Hubert S Monkeys
Weddings & Wanderings Hopefully some of you may have noticed that "The Real Cheese" was missing in action the last couple of issues. Well I would love to say it was because I had been drag napped and sold into sex slavery by a group of East European human traffickers that cater to those with a fetish for well aged cross dressers, but that would be stretching the truth a tad bit. The truth is layered though, consisting of the winter crud, a virus ridden computer likely caused by looking for porn sites hiring afore mentioned well aged cross dressers, and just old fashion procrastination which is something I have mastered. Have no doubt though, I have experienced enough over the holidays to have stories for months to come. I will try to condense the highlights as well as the lowlights for you now. I will begin with my attendance of the Royal Wedding of Mike (Opal Masters) Moreau and Darwin Reed, definitely a highlight. Not only was it to be a historic event, but it also saw the return, (one night only appearance) of eccentric handsome young artist and often muse or catalyst to many of my past escapades, Madison Faile! Having him as my escort assured that it would be quite the eventful night. The first person we see upon arriving at the church was costume designer extraordinaire John Zeringue leading me to imagine the couple and all the wedding party parading down the aisle in feathered collars and headpieces, with a grin he told me no not quite. I was so happy to see
friends Tip and Gary who I had not seen in weeks as they are world travelers! Now not to mention any names including myself, for a second I feared of lighting striking as someone did ask for a vodka and holy water, ok yes it was me, but only because it had been a long day. For any in attendance that may have been unsure of attending a same sex marriage in a church, they were quickly put at ease by Rev. Bill Terry and the members of St. Anna’s Church. He used humor in the most enlightening way, I can’t express how comfortable and welcomed he made me feel. Part of me expected to see Opal in full wedding gown attire, but it was Mike who appeared with longtime partner Darwin, although his tux was one that would have made Liberace proud! They both were more than handsome. The only potential faux pas was from myself when asking for more wine during communion.
The reception that followed was oh so lavish, food was fabulous, featuring Rip and Marsha's now famous smoked pheasant and duck gumbo!!! People were now loosening up and enjoying adult beverages and socializing with a most diverse crowd of guests which included former Miss Gay America Patti La Plae Safe. Now while the wedding party was enjoying a Dom Perignon toast in the parlor, Madison, myself and another former MGA (who shall remain nameless because she is a good Christian that I love) were in the kitchen happily finishing off a couple bottles of the cheaper bubbly! As usual after sharing champagne with young Mr. Faile, the rest is a little blurry, but we end up in a group led by lovable Dr. George and including young power couple and Instagram superstars Jonathon Molina and Ray Conard. First stop Oz for a cocktail with hunky Cameron who along with his lovely wife joined our little impromptu bar crawl. Out to the streets we went, passing thru the Pub and then over to the Itch where Madison managed to sweet talk Julian into letting him take a champagne glass out on the rest of our venture. Dr. George was all about cabs from then on, he literally had one waiting at every stop, next which was The Golden Lantern to catch some of the MGL Pageant. I hear it ended up being epic, but I can only recount for what I saw while there, which was Judge Dominique DeLorean looking ravishing and Judge Tami Tarmac sporting a new hairdo that I have now dubbed the Tower of Tarmac, if I could have climbed up on top of that masterpiece I swear I could have seen the Canadian Border. Only part of the competition I saw was evening gown,
first young blond bombshell Karli LaCorre, elegant and radiant in gold, and then Reba Douglas herself, well put together in black with her trademark red locks. I do remember congratulating Monica Synclaire-Kennedy on her passionate and nothing but class reign this past year, and on the way out giving a shout to Rikki Redd who was sporting a snappy little red dance outfit with legs for days. Back in the cab we talked the entire group into helping us make donations to our scholarship funds at the Corner Pocket, now I was really going to consult The Oracle of Drag, Lisa Beaumann on all the craziness going on in the Drag Matrix. I’m pretty sure we were having lots of good wholesome fun, especially outside while waiting for the cab and explaining to Cameron’s wife what it means to pass the government cheese and why it would in the Christmas spirit if we passed some to her husband. In the midst of all this I realize that the voice of gay reason, adorable friend Cody Chauvin has joined the group mainly to give hope to wayward souls like me and others, that if we find a good husband like he had, we could be home at a decent hour, with money still in our pockets, safe and sound and with no hangover the next day. It would take a couple of more stops before reason won out and would see us all safely home, but not before I heard the quote of the night, while the group was going their own ways, I hear; "Get your hand out of my ass!" To which I hear replied, "Oh I’m sorry I didn’t know where my hand was!" This was not at all lascivious but quite funny, but I guess
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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
“My First Three Gay Weddings” Same sex marriage has been legal for over six months now and despite the warnings of the religious right, Western Civilization has not crumbled into ashes and been swallowed into the fiery bowels of hell. Since the landmark Supreme Court decision, I have attended three same-sex wedding ceremonies. The first was the wedding of Charles Paul and Pete Pietens. Their ceremony was held at the Faerie Playhouse—the iconic 200 year old Creole Cottage with the red hearts on Esplanade Avenue. The Faerie Playhouse is not only the longtime home of legendary LGBT+ activist Stewart Butler and his late partner Alfred Doolittle, it has also, over the decades, served as a meeting place for a number of important community organizations including LAGPAC in the early 1980s and more recently, the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana. Charles and Pete’s wedding was in the rear courtyard adjacent to the Memorial Garden, where the partial remains of a number of important LGBT figures are buried, including Charlene Schneider, John Ognibene, Cliff Howard, and J.B. Harter. Charles and Pete have been committed to each other for twenty years and although they live and work in Fort Worth, Texas, they spend much of the year at their second home in New Orleans. The wedding ceremony was preceded (and fol-
lowed) by a party for roughly 60 or so friends and family. It was warm, casual affair devoid of any religious overtones. The second wedding I attended was a more traditional ceremony. Darwin Reed and Mike Moreau (aka Opal Masters), together for 40+ years, tied the knot at St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, which happens to be across the street from the Faerie Playhouse. This was the first state sanctioned same sex wedding performed at St. Anna’s. The ceremony was followed by a reception at the Ambush Mansion. Mike and Darwin met in 1975 at Travis’, a gay bar on North Rampart where GrandPre’s now is. Upon first seeing Darwin, Mike remembers, “I saw him in the bar and chased him around until he asked me to dance.” The two became friends for a few months until one night they decided to
consummate their relationship. As they arrived at Mike’s home, Mike told Darwin, “This is a one night thing. I’m not looking for anything permanent.” Not long thereafter, the two moved in together and have shared each other’s lives ever since. Darwin and Mike are currently reigning as the King and Queen 50 of Amon-Ra; Mike is a charter member of the gay Carnival krewe, which was founded in 1965. While Charles and Pete’s wedding was laid back and casual and Darwin and Mike’s was more formal and traditional, Otis Fury and Thomas Metzger’s ceremony was somewhere in the middle. Held at Café Istanbul in the New Orleans Healing Center and billed as “T.J. and Otis’ Big Gay Masquerade Wedding,” this afternoon fete featured an open bar, a fantastic spread of food and a plethora of interesting maskers. It was quirky and fun. Otis and T. J. have been together ten years and work as bartenders at the Double Play. All three weddings were beautiful and moving and legal. Legal. That’s the thing the hard-core religious folk could never wrap their heads around. My friends and thousands others like them never wanted to destroy the institution of marriage; they wanted to join it—not only to obtain a publicly recognized validation of their already cemented relationships but also for the multitude of legal benefits now afforded to them. On a personal note, before the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage, I hated going to weddings. I didn’t like having to dress up for them and I’ve never felt entirely comfortable in churches. The religious services that accompanied the ceremonies usually bored or offended me.
And the stuffy receptions were typically filled with people I didn’t want to be around in the first place. But my experiences at the three gay weddings have attended have changed my attitude a bit. In fact, I’ve come to the conclusion that gay weddings may end up saving the institution of marriage— or at least wedding ceremonies. As for the religious objectors, the sky is not falling and the world is not ending. Not yet at least. I’ll start worrying about that when “Gay Divorce Court” airs on cable.
the real cheese ...from 8 you would just have had to be there. I know that Cody, having showed up just in the nick of gay times saw to it that Madison and everyone got home safely, And I’m pretty sure that included me, however after arriving home, I some how ended up across the street at my favorite undisclosed location, in fact the one where the Real Cheese was born (Thanks Aubrey, you bitch!) Holding court with another guest from the earlier Royal Wedding, Elizabeth Bouvier. I can guarantee that no one there could comprehend any of our words by this time, but I assure you all were likely profound. All this being recounted I guess what I see now upon reflection is that in our evolving gay world, there will be older people that will now be able to share their love and time on earth legally, and younger couples that can be as wise, and those like myself who are somewhere in the middle , discussing it all over a few cocktails while continuing to cut up! And that my dahlins is The Real Cheese! Till next time, I’m Felicia Phillips, The Cheese Queen of New Orleans...
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TJ & Otis's Big Gay Masquerade Wedding @ Cafe Istanbul ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon
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Big Easy Sisters' 3rd Annaul Sister Gras & 2nd Line raises $1,422 for Charity @ GrandPre's ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Roy Guste
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Friday Night Before Mardi Gras, Satyricon, Petronius Carnival Revelry ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio
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Mystik Krewe du Rue Royale Revelers Crown Grand Reveler II Will Antil with Meeting of the Royal Courts' Krewe of Queenateenas ~ New Orleans
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Photos by Tony Leggio, Darwin Reed
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Canal St.) for a limited engagement from Jan. 19 –24, 2016. Tickets for "Motown The Musical" start at $30 and will be available at the Saenger Theatre Box Office, BroadwayInNewOrleans.com, all Ticketmaster outlets and by calling (800) 982-2787. Directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, "Motown The Musical"is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye and so many more. Featuring more than 40 classic hits such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” It tells tells the story behind the hits as Diana, Smokey, Berry and the whole Motown family fight against the odds to create the soundtrack of change in America. Motown shattered barriers; shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. For more information, visit www.MotownTheMusical.com. Friday, January 22, 2016 The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon’s presents its 14th Bal Masque entitled "Le Bal des Beaux Arts: A Night at the Museum" at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center (8245 West Judge Perez Drive) in Chalmette. Doors open at 7pm, Tableaux starts at 8pm. Dancing will follow. Formal attire/ costumes and masking desired. Tables and single tickets are available, go to mystickreweofsatyricon.com.
under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham
Bartender of the Month The pool table is one of the quintessential draws to the The Balcony Bar upstairs at Café Lafitte in Exile. Now on Friday evenings from 7 – 10pm they are having a pool tournament where the winner can get a $50 bar tab. In addition to that, they are running an amazing drink special of $10 all you can drink Bud Light. So even if you do not play pool you can watch all the action while enjoying unlimited suds for three hours. But the tournament is not the only reason why The Balcony Bar is so exciting. My bartender of the month for January can be found working there in all his sexy glory. I am talking about Justin Hauser who is brand new to the Lafitte’s family (and New Orleans) but a very welcome addition. He hails from a little town in Southwest Iowa called Exira. I swear they grow those boys hot in the corn belt of the United States.
Bartender of the Month Justin Hauser @ The Balcony Bar Justin’s sparkling personality matches perfectly with his professional demeanor behind the bar. He makes awesome cocktail quickly and handles large crowds with ease. His past work experience was at the oldest comedy club in Virginia seemed to
have rubbed off on him because of his playful wit and humor. Add to this his farm boy next door good looks, killer smile, bedroom eyes (okay I was a little smitten) and you have a reason to learn how to play pool. He has also created his own special cocktail that can be done as a drink or a shot called Justin’s Happy Trail. It is Southern Comfort, Disaronno and pineapple (but another juice can be substituted). His favorite cocktail to consume is a double gin and tonic (a bad boy after my own heart). Gin makes you sin! So get on upstairs to Café Lafitte in Exile and check out Justin’s Happy Trail, you will not regret it. Café Lafitte in Exile is located at 901 Bourbon Street.
Book of the Month I love a good apocalyptic thriller. I mean who doesn’t think about what will happen if everything just falls apart; where you will be, who you will be with and what the hell will you do to survive. That is answered in Nate Kenyon’s newest novel "Day One," a “what if” doomsday thriller about a computer program that has run amok. The main character, journalist John Hawke, takes the train into New York City to interview James Weller, the former CEO of a giant technology firm and founder of a new start-up company. It is not long after he gets to the offices that things go crazy and soon John along with a group of strangers are fighting to survive getting out of New York as literally everything with a computer chip turns deadly from coffee machines to subways. Things that you take for granted everyday now the ultimate killing machines. Kenyon amps up the action from the beginning and never lets up. This was a standout page turner as the characters deal with zoo animals on the loose, religious zealots and bad cops, just to name a few of the obstacles. "Day One" is a must read that borrows little bits from other stories such as "Maximum Overdrive" and "2001 A Space Odyssey" but still delivers a fresh and unique approach. I highly recommend this book for all those disaster, sci-fi and action thriller fans. For more information on Nate Kenyon, go to www.natekenyon.com.
Hot Happenings Mardi Gras in New Orleans is one over-the-top, wild and overstimulated ride filled with parades, parties and balls (the ones you where tuxedos to). But there are so many things to do in our city from theatre to dance parties and everything in between. Here are just a few events you may want to consider checking out. Tuesday, January 19 – Sunday, January 24, 2016 "Motown The Musical" is coming to the Saenger Theatre (1111
Friday, January 22, 2016 Get your Mardi Gras on in Baton Rouge with the Krewe of Apollo’s Bal Masque XXV entitled “It All Began With This.” Celebrating 35 years, this amazing gay Carnival Krewe holds its ball at the Baton Rouge River Center Arena (275 S. River Road). Doors open at 6:30pm with the tableau starting at 8pm. Tickets/Tables available at www.apollobatonrouge.com. Saturday, January 23, 2016 Forget sharks, its bearracudas in the Mississippi you have to worry about. Bearracuda welcomes hundreds of furry guys to dance the night away in the middle of the French Quarter at the Carnival Dance Party at One Eyed Jacks (615 Toulouse Street). After the Krewe du Vieux and Krewe Delusion parades, come down and enjoy a night of hot men! Doors open at 9pm. Tickets are $8 in advance and are available at http://bearracuda.com/new-orleans/. Bearracuda is the largest attended bear dance party and most prolific gay dance event in the U.S. Saturday, January 23, 2016 Happy Carnival! GrrlSpot’s is excited to present their 4th Annual Krewe du Vieux Masquerade, its second biggest event of the year at Bamboula’s (514 Frenchman Street) starting at 6pm. And the really great part, the parade rolls right in front of Bamboulas! Parade starts at 6:30pm with a dance party following to the beats by Jener|8|. Wear a mask and bring some mystery to the party! Masks are suggested, but not required, but studies have shown, wearing a Mardi Gras mask to this party greatly decreases the chance you’ll go home alone. Thursday, January 28, 2016 Join Forum for Equality for their annual Mardi Gras Masquerade and boogie the night away at Propeller (4035 Washington Ave) from 6 – 9pm. Enjoy delicious food from Louisiana Pizza Kitchen as well as scrumptious sweet and savory king cakes like chocolate chip mascarpone and crawfish with goat cheese as well as an open bar. Carnival and/or Disco attire suggested, but not required. There is a suggested Membership Donation of $40. Friday, January 29, 2016 OMG, I love this entertainer so much! Barry Manilow is coming to the Smoothie King Center (1501 Dave Dixon Dr) with his new concert show ONE LAST TIME! The show starts at 7:30pm. The GRAMMY®, TONY®, and EMMY® Awardwinning musician’s career skyrocketed to superstardom when his mega hit song, “Mandy,” topped the charts in 1975. In the spirit of that special year, tickets will be priced to tie into that year and will start at $19.75 (fees included). Manilow insisted that the average ticket price remain low and that a greater range of ticket prices be available. General information about the ONE LAST TIME! Tour is available at www.manilow.com. Tickets may be purchased via Ticketmaster at http:// www.ticketmaster.com.
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trodding the boards by Brian Sands
Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com
Ditzyland at Café Istanbul When Sean Patterson, Varla Jean Merman, and Ricky Graham appeared at the start of Ditzyland dressed as Mouseketeers for their tribute to the world of Walt, they paused with a few moments of concern that Disney’s legal team might swoop down like some pterodactyl in Fantasia and bust’em. But once they realized that, with a minimum of changes here and there, they would be protected by parody (or as Varla said “parasite”) fair use statutes, it was time for a “titty titty gang bang” where “Disney can suck my Donald Duck.” Never mind Cubby, Doreen and Annette, this might’ve been too racy for Justin, Christina and Britney. Well, once upon a time. From there, this mad-hatted trio took on all things Disney and used the Mouse’s iconic canon of stories and characters to satirize a large swath of New Orleans’ culture, from “1,001 Chalmatians” to “Just a tub full of butter/Makes your arteries shut down”, a Mary Poppins-inspired tribute to
Emeril and all our other chefs who abhor lite cooking. But this dream team of writer/performers aimed not only at NOLA’s easy targets, but the whole Princess mystique. Snow White became Po’ White with curlers in her hair and an attitude as trashy as can be. Varlarella may be “built just like a fella”, but don’t ask her to wear that cindery shmata when she can enjoy one of Cecile Casey’s many gorgeous gowns from the get-go. Terrible puns abound; Aladdin’s Jasmine is covered by a Delta burqa that Prince Ben Ghazi gets her to remove piece
under the gaydar ...from 18
experience special pampering for VIP guests! Shuttle service from the French Quarter is available, plus plenty of secure parking onsite. This event benefits LGBTQ causes and HIV services right here in New Orleans. For tickets and more information, go to www.fridaynightbeforemardigras.com.
Saturday, January 30, 2016 "All That Glitters Isn’t Gold" is the year of Amon-Ra’s 51st annual ball. Voted best ball by Ambush Magazine readers three years in a row, Amon-Ra is one of the city’s finest balls. The charity number will be held for Saint Anna’s. For more information, go to www.kreweofamonra.com. Saturday, January 30, 2016 The Krewe of Petronius celebrates its 55th year, and presents “Gay, Glitz, & Glamour" for its bal masque at Historic Carver Theatre (2101 Orleans Ave). Doors open at 7pm with the ball starting promptly at 8pm. Please arrive early to take advantage of the complimentary valet. Attire is strictly formal. Photography encouraged. For more information, go to http:// www.kreweofpetronius.net. Sunday, January 31, 2016 The King Cake Festival, a celebration benefitting babies and children at Ochsner Hospital for Children, celebrates its third year at Champion Square (1 LaSalle St). Spend the day strolling Champions Square and sampling Louisiana’s finest King Cakes from the state’s greatest bakers. The event is from 11am – 5pm and is free and open to the public. For more information regarding tasting tickets, the Gladiator Games, or all things King Cake Festival, please visit www.kingcakefestival.org. Friday, February 5, 2016 Wave your magic wand! The 2016 Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Ball is almost here. With the theme “Once Upon A Twisted Time,” this year’s event is bringing you a wild and wicked world of fairy tales, fiends and fantasies. The event is from 9pm – midnight at The Cannery (3803 Toulouse St). Wear your best take on a “twisted” fairy tale character for the costume contest ... Be dazzled by a magical evening of music, dancing, great food and a fabulous open bar ... Bid on fantastic items in the outstanding auction ... And
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Saturday, February 6, 2016 Come see the fabulous Krewe of Armenius put on the 2016 Armeinius Bal Masque XLVIII- "Beauty and the Beast" at the Frederick Sigur Center (8245 W. Judge Perez) in Chalmette. Come see New Orleans’ largest gay krewe put on the greatest spectacle of the year. An Armeinius Bal Masque is the stuff of dreams are made of and this year see the beastly side to Mardi Gras. Shuttles from the French Quarter and Marigny will be available to the ball. Get your tickets early to this incredible once in a lifetime event. Come see celebrity personalities such as Varla Jean Mermen, Michael Sullivan, and the RuPaul Drag Race and hilarious singing sensation Willam Belli. Doors open at 7pm and the ball starts at 8pm. For more information or tickets, go to www.armeinius.org. Sunday, February 7, 2016 The Mystic Krewe of the Lords of Leather is proud to present, "There’s No Cure Like Travel" Ball Masque XXXIII at the Alario Center. Tables are now on sale at Lordsofleather.org. Don’t miss one of the greatest balls of the gay carnival season. Hosting again this year is the incredible talent of Bianca Del Rio. Doors open at 7pm and the ball starts at 8pm. Come out and don’t forget your passports.
Party Down 2016 has officially arrived and we have already jumped directly into the Carnival season. My two weeks consisted of New Year’s Eve celebrations, disco divas, king cakes, tiaras and Joan of Arc. There was a lot happening at the end and start of the old and new year, so let’s get started. New Year’s Eve Eve (Wednesday)
social darling Cheryl Lemoine hosted a post-holiday/pre-New Year’s soiree at her home in Mid-City. Cheryl who is a huge wine fanatic had copious amounts of wines and champagnes to pair with an assortment of exotic cheeses and snacks. House parties are always great when they do a unique twist to them, and this one fit that bill. Guests were able to try wines and cheeses that they probably never would buy on their own (most I had not even heard of). I like an educational factor in my parties. New Year’s Eve was found me going from downtown to the suburbs for parties. I started my night at the delightful home of Albert Carey, Captain of Armeinius. He always has a gathering of friends who come together for cocktails, food and watching the fireworks form the rooftop of his condo in the Warehouse District. Next, I traversed across town to the burbs and the home of Jeff Mallon (aka Elizabeth Bouvier) for her party at the Chalmansion. Now unlike New Orleans that has one central place for fireworks on the river, it seems in Chalmette everyone shoots them off. There were firework shows around us everywhere. I swear it felt like the Battle of New Orleans recreated all over again, with literally bombs bursting in air all around us. It was a lovely night with great friends and then after the stroke of midnight, the few remaining played the game Cards Against Humanity, which if you have not played this game before do it. It is truly one of the most hysterical, politically incorrect things I have ever done, and no surprise I won. So that made me the most horrible person at the table that night. It’s good to have a title. New Year’s Day was spent with family and friends at the Racetrack watching the horses run. Holidays at the track were a tradition in my family, we have gone before for Thanksgiving and Mardi Gras Day, but as I got older those days became reserved for different activities so thought this seemed like a good new holiday tradition to start. Dining in the clubhouse gives you an excellent vantage point to see all the races as well as enjoy good food and libations. The event had the traditional black eyed peas and cabbage for luck and money. Even though I did not win, it still was a great way to usher in the new year. On Saturday, Decadence arrived early in the form of Frankie Fierce who hosted a progressive birthday party that started with a scrumptious Italian dinner at Ristorante Filippo. After we hopped on the party bus that whisked us off to a whirlwind evening of drunken debauchery starting at the Four Seasons where we caught the very beginning of the Appletini Review. Next up we were at GrandPre’s where we caught the tail end of the Southern Barbitchuates show. This was the stop where we were joined by none other than RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Joslyn Foxx who joined us for the remainder of the evening. Our next stop on this rolling train was the Golden Lantern where more people joined us after their Saturday night show. The bus was like a revolving door with people jumping on and off all night at each stop. We then went to the 700 Club before we ended the evening at the Corner Pocket. All I have to say is damn you Fireball; your hangovers suck the next day. After a few days of recovery it was 12th Night already and that was quite the Wednesday Hump Day. I started the night off with a cocktail reception at the Court of Two Sisters who had their first annual 12th Night party to show off their new renova-
tions and they look amazing. The historic restaurant has got a wonderful facelift. The food was delicious and the flowing champagne made for a great way to start off the night. Next we caught the Joan of Arc Parade that made its way through the Quarter. Their Grand Marshal this year was the delightful Sandra Dartus who looked divine atop her mighty steed as she made her way through the Quarter. The parade was exceptional this year with clever costumes and unique throws. My friends and I made it over to the Frank Perez’s 12th Night gathering at his home on Royal Street. Everyone was there as they chose the Grand Reveler II Will Antil. Wine, beer, nibbles and half naked boys, made for a great Mardi Gras party. Our final stop of the night was the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon 12th Night Party at Café Istanbul. It had a great silent auction, good food and the talented New Leviathan Oriental Fox-Trot Orchestra. Parades and parties made the perfect start to a wonderful season. On Friday, my friend Laura and I went to see Anais St, John channel the disco diva herself in the show "Last Dance: A Tribute to Donna Summer" at the Joy Theatre. It was probably one of the most memorable shows I have been too in a long time. The audience was dressed in seventies attire and the floor was reserved for dancing. Everyone’s spirts were raised high and Anais brought the house down with this part concert/ part theatrical experience. I saw so many people there; it was definitely the place to be that night. Saturday was a full day of event hopping starting with the Twisted Tiara party hosted by the Friday Night Before Mardi Gras at a private home in the French Quarter. It was the last of the lead up parties to their big event on the Friday Night Before Mardi Gras which will be held February 5, 2016 at the Cannery. It was a fun afternoon and I was lucky enough to win a jewel encrusted Mardi Gras mask. Then the guests paraded down to GrandPre’s for the after party. After numerous liquid libations, we went to the Marigny for two events. The first was an art show at CJ Nero’s new space. If you have not seen Crag Nero’s (owner of Who Dat Café) newest shop and art gallery, you need to check it out. That night was the opening reception for the very talented artist Josh Wingerter’s whose renderings of famous singers are stunning. Next we went to see another artist perform at LA 46, an eclectic antique shop on St. Claude. Steven Forster, the society photographer and writer for the Advocate held an informal concert at the shop. There was quite the crowd and many singers showed up and sat in with him for a number or two. Photographer, musician, Steven proves he is quite the Renaissance man. I ended my two weeks on Sunday night with the Royalty Party at the breathtaking home of John Groth on Carondelet. This intimate affair was in honor of their royalty Nick and Kitty D’ Litter. The food and drink flowed as the krewe unveiled their poster done by artist Freddie Guess. The painting was pretty cool and featured all the members; it was the best poster I have ever seen done for a gay ball in many years. From the enthusiasm of the members, their ball this year is going to be a great one. Congrats to the royalty and the krewe on hosting a lovely and memorable event. So until next issue, get your Mardi Gras on!
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by piece (to his eventual dismay for reasons that won’t be revealed here). And if there’s a movie that offers no well-known songs to spoof, like the New Orleansbased Princess and the Frog, it just leads into a naughty joke involving a Tulane football player, a frog and some fellatio, that probably had its origins in the early days of burlesque.
Graham suffered the jokes about his age nobly, and had the last laugh—and a huge one—when he reimagined one of Cinderella’s stepsisters using his vintage Bette Davis impersonation. As director, Graham’s years of practice doing this type of cabaret act informed Ditzyland’s surehanded pacing and insistence on Grade A material. And then there’s the fearless Varla. Whether utilizing solely her eyes underneath that burqa or climbing the wall as a
Bartender’s Leon & Eric @ B-Bob’s
Hello Adam
Varla Jean Merman, Sean Patterson and Ricky Graham in Ditzyland Ditzyland provided various types of humor from raucous satire to tasty in-jokes that these three long-time partners-in-crime slung among themselves. Nothing’s sacred from Varla’s weight to Graham’s rapidly fading youth. This entertainment where “Everyone is Goofy” also features cameos from Adele, Frozen’s Elsa, and Bill Cosby who tried to seduce Po’ White. With its witty rewritten lyrics and wickedly done send-ups, Ditzyland offered a virtual laughfest from start to finish. If I could’ve done without The Lion King/ muffaletta mash-up or the Mitch Landrieubashing “Mayor’s Necessities” to the tune of The Jungle Book’s Bare Necessities, it’s only because the Disney connection was more tenuous in these skits; when you have nearly 90 minutes of uproarious humor, such pieces that would elsewhere seem top-notch risk coming off as merely middle-notch. Interestingly, while two of the most brilliant numbers (“Tchoupitoulas” to Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ melody and Varla’s Hunchback of Notre Dame version of Liza’s Ring Them Bells in which she quick-changes from pretty Esmeralda to misshapen Quasimodo) have appeared in previous revues, they seemed even more fabulous in Ditzyland as they arose organically from this show’s theme. Towards the end, Ditzyland seems to turn into a positive learning experience for Varla as she deals with aging; this arc, reminiscent of ones in Under the Big Top and other Merman extravaganzas, could be better developed, but it’s hard to complain about a show that had me and the entire audience guffawing continually. Patterson, often playing a Prince, made a wonderful foil for Varla and Graham, as well as a luscious Ariel, even if he looked less like a water sprite and more like Melissa McCarthy. And what a hoot to have him bring back his Mammy from last year’s Gone with the Breaking Wind, this time as Varlarella’s Fairy Godmama. Politically incorrect, but hilarious.
flight-challenged Peter [Pan] Plate, she’s hysterically and consistently funny, worthy of being on a Mt. Rushmore of comediennes which would include Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett and the rubbery-faced Martha Raye. Jefferson Turner handled the musical direction with his usual expertise, Su Gonczy’s lighting added to the merriment, and the sumptuous wigs by Brooklyn Shaffer and Jason Picus were works of art by themselves. Alas, Ditzyland has finished its limited run at Café Istanbul; if it should reappear there, in Provincetown, or anywhere else in this after all small world, get on a magic carpet and fly there immediately. Of course, if there were any real happily-ever-afters, Ditzyland would simply run forever and ever.
Welcome home Garrett
Hello Michael & Miss Cie
m obile paparazzi Welcome home Demetrius
Late: A Cowboy Song at the Old Marquer Theatre through Jan. 22 When I saw the Lux et Umbra production of Late: A Cowboy Song, I had not yet learned the sad news of the Old Marquer Theatre’s imminent closing. Does that make a difference as to how I feel about the show at present, as I write this? Maybe, maybe not. Actually, the more I think about it, the more I like Sarah Ruhl’s portrait of a love triangle among three members of society’s margins. An early effort by this much-honored playwright, Late is aptly flavored with melancholy and longing. It’s a satisfying look at two women’s developing relationship and wisely doesn’t explain everything that leads to it. What we do know is that Crick (Philip Cramer) and Mary (Rebecca Elizabeth Hollingsworth) share the same birthday and have known each other since grade school. Now in their 20s, they’ve been
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Joe Cain Widow @ Pan Ball
Happy Birthday Patrick
Joe Cain Widow @ Pan Ball
Hello Delta, Brent & Miss Cie
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Only on the Bay! ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Miss Cie
trodding the boards ...from 20
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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
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circuit/events 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 Aug. 31-Sept. 5, 2016, 45th Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 180,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.com Oct. 27-Oct. 30, 2016 Halloween 33, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.com Dec. 26, 2015-Jan. 1, 2017 Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.com
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New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633
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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] BLUES60 GUEST HOUSE, 1008 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117, Phone: 1.504.324.4311, www.blues60guesthouse.com, info@blues60guesthouse.com. The Blue60 Guest House with 5 suites provides a peaceful retreat in the center of the Faubourg Marigny, just blocks from the French Quarter and Frenchman St. [1115] 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, www.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] 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 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
New Orleans, LA [504] Head Quarters Hair Salon, 906 Bourbon
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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
Chartres St. 598.5005, www.KinfishNewOrleans.com Little Vic’s Rosticceria, 719 Toulouse, 304.1238, www.littlevics.com Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, www.OrleansGrapevine.com Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, www.QuartermasterDeli.net
Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St., 528.2601, www.RoyalHouseRestaurant.com
real estate New Orleans, LA [504] New Orleans Relocation, Realtors — gayowned boutique real estate agency for locals and newcomers. 504.273.0088 www.NOLArelo.com
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
services New Orleans, LA [504] ABC Title Services, www.abctitle.com
theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.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
restaurants Metairie, LA [504] Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com New Orleans, LA [504] The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, 577.2237, www.bombayclubneworleans.com Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, 819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http://broussards.com Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., 265.0045, www.TheCheezyCajun.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, www.CloverGrill.com Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com, 945.0742 Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; www.Deanies.com Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.com, 371.5074 Feelings Cafe, 2600 Chartres, 945.2222, www.FeelingsCafe.com Gene's Po-Boys & Daquiris, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 943.3861,
www.genespoboys.com Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 947.8341, www.Facebook.com/ILYSBistro Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337
Advertising Info 504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com
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a community within communities by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church, New Orleans Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
Threats all about... It is the day after the State of the Union message. To be honest I thought the speech could have been better. The visions painted were lacking and substance of the present moment not completely addressed. That said, I like the President’s style, I also like his veiled shots at Mr. Trump. I was somewhat, to my surprise, impressed with Nikki Haley of South Carolina. At least she seemed a bit balanced and once again I appreciate her shots at Mr. Trump. Have I ever shared my theory about mediocre government with you and why it is a triumph of democracy? No? Well pour yourselves one of those delicious pre-Mardi Gras cocktails, alcoholic or nonalcoholic. Let’s face it our government is not efficient. Something that size with so many moving parts can’t really be efficient. I suppose that Republicans now hold that such is one of the issues with “Big Government.” Don’t get me wrong, I deplore the inefficiencies of Government. I wish more of our hard earned tax dollars went directly to aid for the poor, better health care and better education. I wish more of our dollars went to an efficient and well trained military force and I wish our military was more efficient. I also wish our service men and women were far better cared for. I suppose in some gilded age we might have a government not run by lobbies but rather by the hearts of constituents. But we have what we have and I really don’t see a lot of dramatic change in our future. Trump or no
Trump the Government will be what it largely is – inefficient. But in some way I take comfort in that. Let’s look at efficient Governments. Most have an inner circle that call the shots more like corporations with CEOs. Hitler was an efficient master of Administration and efficiently rebuilt the German economy in the 1930’s. Mussolini is well noted for making the trains run on time. The early and powerful Caesar’s like Augustus and Hadrian were efficient (and brutal). Even Papa Joe Stalin was efficient. Here is my conclusion; efficiency when taken to its best is dangerous when in the form of Governments. Actually let’s look around us. It really isn’t too bad. It could be better like our willfulness during the years of The Great Society. Does anyone remember that time? The U.S. almost totally eradicated poverty. Almost, then we got a guy in office who wanted to reduce Government spending and make us more efficient. I think that was
trodding the boards ...from 22
guard, Cramer is especially touching as Crick tells of a painting he loves. Hollingsworth’s Mary radiates a brilliant life force though I couldn’t help thinking that such a character, of limited economic means and stunted emotional growth, would not necessarily let off such a glow, both inner and outer, the way Hollingsworth does. Though she was occasionally a mite hard to hear, especially when she faced away from the audience, Hollingsworth evoked a wonderful nervousness as she anticipated riding a horse followed by an exultant giddiness once she had mastered this challenge (not unlike my horseback riding experiences). Best of all is Moltmaker, an actress new to town, whose scratchy nasal voice is just right for Red. So convincing is she as this awkward individualist not smooth in the ways of social engagement, that I wondered if she was an amateurish beginner until I discovered that she’s had significant training. I look forward to seeing Moltmaker in future performances here. As Red, Moltmaker sings a series of songs that local composer Glenn Aucoin has fashioned, using Ruhl’s lyrics, to sound like authentic country and western ballads. They give Late a pleasing atmosphere of the prairie’s open spaces despite the fact that it’s set in Pittsburgh (though, granted, I have no idea what a Pittsburgh-flavored C&W ballad would sound like).
lovers for a while when an unexpected pregnancy pushes them towards marriage. Around this time, Mary reconnects with Red (Sam Moltmaker), an odd gal they glancingly knew back in the day. She’s become a cowboy, outside the city’s limits, a social misfit more comfortable with horses than people. What’s kept Mary with Crick, a doltish manchild, is hard to say but, hey, we all know couples like that. And Crick does have some redeeming qualities, most notably a deep appreciation for art. In one of the play’s more lyrical passages, he states, “You got to look at a painting a whole day long [to get its meaning, not just five minutes], maybe all life long.” Mary, though, is not convinced and, like many of Ruhl’s heroines, is hoping for a deeper, more immediate fulfillment. There are some other choice lines like “I don’t like to think about cows falling asleep, it’s not as pretty as horses”, and Ruhl infuses Late with an idiosyncrasy and quirkiness that make this 2003 work more appealing than her better known Dead Man’s Cell Phone or Melancholy Play, which UNO presented last year. Jen Davis captures these qualities in her delicate direction. But she can’t entirely overcome the logical inconsistencies and slow-moving nature of Ruhl’s script which promises a greater complexity in its explorations of aesthetics and gender identity than it delivers. Cramer adroitly humanizes Crick, an otherwise flinty character, with an innate openness; as a too enthusiastic museum
Late: A Cowboy Song may be an imperfect play, but it provides a worthy evening of drama that could be the start of many an interesting post-theater discussion. I encourage you to go see it so that the Old Marquer can go out with a bang.
Nixon. Let’s keep in mind that Government spending is not in and of itself bad. It is the use of such funds that makes spending unwise or wise; just or unjust; reasoned or ridiculous. Guys like Trump bother me because they pander to fear. I believe that it is fear that motivates and is the source of prejudice and bias. We have to find a fall guy. I have said this many times before – fear is the prime operator in prejudice. Remember the bullies? They made themselves feel better only at the expense of the other. For so many years LGBT community was that “other” now its “illegal immigrants,” Muslims, and “those people” on welfare. Just as a quick FACT CHECK: The U.S. Budget expenditures- Health Care 27%; Federal Pensions 25%; Defense spending 22%; Welfare 10%; Education 4%. While I am making a case for inefficiency as a safety valve for our Democracy I think some reshuffling of our spending might better reflect a more moral and just society. But that is me. You see I find my moral compass largely in the Gospel of Luke which should rightfully include part 2 better known as Acts of the Apostles. Luke-Acts was probably written somewhere around 80-100 A. D. The true author is unknown. The text sets about a set of standards of behavior that includes women in the life of the church and shows particular concern for the poor and disenfranchised. It is sometimes called “The Social Gospel.” Mr. Trump, for all of his bravado, for all of his xenophobic rhetoric clearly falls outside of the Luke-Acts story as moral compass and as Just-God. Look around. For the better part the U.S.A. is not in bad shape. Not really. Not always the best but not bad. Our National identity and mythology often demand that we are “the best.” Yet, it really isn’t too bad: U.S. poverty rate
obituaries Darrin James Ferris Darrin James Ferris passed away Wednesday evening Jan. 6, 2016 in Chalmette, Louisiana at the age of 44. He was a native of Sp r i n g f i e l d , Massachusetts, and lived in the New Orleans area for the last 10 years. Darrin devoted the last five years raising money for non-profit HIV organizations, in the New Orleans area through his fundraiser Benefit For Life. He enjoyed the game of tennis, watching and cheering for the Saints and the Red Sox. Loving Husband to Gerald Joseph Ferris. Best friend of Thomas Bruneau and many others. Devoted Son of Mike Ferris and Penny Gallant and stepson to the late Bob Gallant. Brother of Michael and Illyne Ferris, Shawn and Julie Ferris, as well as Erin and Bob Herbert. Uncle of Chris Herbert, Shawn Ferris, Ryan Herbert, Meghan Herbert, Shannon Ferris and Bryan Ferris. A memorial service was held on Jan. 16, 2016.
Allen C. Miller Allen C. Miller passed away on Jan. 9, 2016. Allen is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ellen Miller. His children, Michelle
is about 15.1% and Germany is 15.5% compared to Israel at 23.6%; Belize 33%; Mexico 51%; Haiti, Chad, Zimbabwe, and Liberia at 80%! The United States ranks 21 in cost of living that means it’s less expense than in 20 other countries including places like Australia, Denmark, France, and Bermuda which is at twice our rate. We rank #17 in education in the world that really isn’t too bad we could do better but then we only spend 4% of our national budget on education. The U.S. ranks 167 in infant mortality out of 224 that is a poor result given our “Health” expenditures. Yet, the U.S. remains the single largest economy of any single nation second only to the entire collective E.U. But the bottom line is while we can do better we are not in an apocalyptic collapse of our nation. The United States population donates to charity by a wide margin more so than any other country. That says something about where are heart truly is. Mr. Trump this is what Jesus said according to Luke: “Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:37-38. How does this stack up with Mr. Trump or even those who present themselves as homophobic, misogynistic, patriarchal, or xenophobic? It doesn’t. We can do better, don’t ask for hyper efficiency, but we can do better. We are OK, not perfect, but OK and our little tribe out little community below Canal Street will continue to live out Jesus’ wisdom as outlined in Luke 6. We are generous in spirit, in hospitality, in our work, and our desire to love one another. Miller Campbell (Steve), Alberto Delcid and Peter Lowry (Jessica); grandchildren, Hope and Kai Lowry; his best friend, Craig Cheramie; his siblings, Marti Benning, Matt Miller, Moyna Thompson and Maureen Maturo. He is preceded in death by his father, Oliver C. Miller and mother, Mary Ann Havener Miller and his sister, Marlys (Katie) Hoxsey. Allen worked for National Oil Well for over 25 years. He was a lifetime participant and patron of the Arts attending local and national theater. He was an avid reader and a lover of fantasy and science fiction. Allen was also a supporter of many LGBT charities. He was a loving and kind man; always willing to go the extra mile for those in need. He was loved by many and known as “Dad” to a multitude of people. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation and Celebration of Life on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home in New Orleans from 4 to 8pm. The memorial service will begin at 6pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Allen’s honor to Food for Friends at www.noaidstaskforce.org/ways-to-donate/.
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paparazzi
Cheryl Lemoine’s Pre-New Year’s Eve Party @ her Mid-City home
RuPaul’s Drag Race Contestant Joslyn Fox poses with her picture in Ambush @ Golden Lantern Last Dance Tribute to Donna Summer show @ Joy Theatre
Mr. Golden Lantern Bradley Latham & King Cake Queen XXII Aubrey Synclaire @ Oz
Elizabeth Bouvier’s New Year’s Eve Party @ the Chalmansion
Steven Forster’s live concert @ LA51 Carnival Spirit @ Oz (Photo by Roy Guste)
Regina Adams & Tru DeMille @ The Appletini Review
Last Dance Tribute to Donna Summer show @ Joy Theatre starring Anais St John
Cocktails @ GrandPre’s
Amber Douglas guest stars @ Golden Lantern’s Sunday Jubilee
Appletini Review’s Dee & Stephanie welcome you to Four Seasons in Metairie Four Seasons Electra & Tittie join Monica Synclaire-Kennedy @ The Golden Lantern
Bar Baron’s Tip & Gary with newlyweds Jimmy & Randy @ Four Seasons in Metairie SDGM XLI Frankie Fierce 32nd Birthday Party Bus!
The Southern Barbitchuates on stage @ GrandPre’s
Bartenders Kevin and Nicholas @ Lafitte’s Trash Disco
Albert Carey’s New Year’s Eve Party in the Warehouse District
Last Dance Tribute to Donna Summer show @ Joy Theatre starring Anais St. John
Dextaci performs for Jubilee @ The Golden Lantern
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The Social Scene ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Darwin Reed
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Chris ready for Trash Disco’s napkin toss @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile Kenny, Tiffany & Michael @ Show Club of the Year Oz Chat is all smiles @ COK inside the Phoenix
Hostess Lisa Beaumann & Danny @ The Corner Pocket
Rawhide bartender Frankie, Kajun Pub’s David & Kevin @ Rawhide
Bartender's Adam, David & Brian @ The Phoenix
ambush
paparazzi
Bartenders Artie & Josh @ The Bourbon Pub & Parade
Bar Baron Clint & bartender Tom welcome you to Leather Bar of the Year Phoenix
All fun with Drew @ The Golden Lantern
Miss Golden Lantern Reba Douglas headlines Jubilee @ The Golden Lantern
The Cheese Queen of New Orleans Felicia Phillips always arrives in style
Good Friends bartenders Jacob & Robert
Southern Barbitchuates’ Coca Mesa joins Todd Blauvelt for his b-day @ GrandPre’s Zingo with host Barry Masters & dancers Eric & Nick @ The Corner Pocket
Bartender Robert invites you to the Home of the Separator @ Good Friends Bar
Sable Nicole Starr & Coca J Mesa on their way to show night @ Oz
Jeff, Liz & Ambush’s Paul having 12th Night cocktails @ Lafitte’s
Greetings from Ron & Art @ Dance Club of the Year Oz
Dancer Joey welcomes you to The Corner Pocket
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Across the Spectrum~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon, Jeremy Weinberg
Binx & Nick on the bar @ Neighborhood Bar of the Year Corner Pocket
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32 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • J an. 19-Feb. 1, 2016 • Of fic ial Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om