Ambush Magazine Volume 36 Issue 13 by Ambush Publishing

THE OFFICIAL GAY MAGAZINE OF THE GULF SOUTH Celebrating LGBTQ Life, Music & Culture Since 1982 A BI-WEEKLY PUBLICATION

VOLUME 36 ISSUE 13

TUESDAY, June 19, 2018

www.AMBUSHMAG.com

Gay Appreciation Awards Voting & Pride Highlights

pm. We’ve added a few new catorigoes this year and we are really excited to honor members of the LGBTQ community. The proceeds from the event will be divided between Southern Decadence and Stonewall Sports. For more information check out www. gayappreciationawards.com

The “Official” Dish by TJ Acosta, Publisher Email: tomy@ambushpublishing.com

Dear Ambush Nation, HAPPY PRIDE ONE MORE TIME Let’s give a big THANK YOU to everyone who helped plan, coordinate and participate in this years New Orleans Pride Festival. President of New Orleans Pride, Lonnie Cheramie and Parade Captain Darryl Martin along with the entire board of Pride did an outstanding job. Also, thanks to The Phoenix Bar for once again sponsoring PrideFest. The festival and parade have continued to grow each and every year making Pride in New Orleans an event the entire LGBTQ community can be proud of. 45TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UPSTAIRS LOUNGE ARSON June 24th will mark the 45 anniversary of the UpStairs Lounge arson that occured at 141 Chartres Street in the French Quarter. 32 individuals died in

the fire. Up until the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando in 2016, the UpStairs Lounge arson attack was the deadliest known attack on a gay club in US history. In the next few weeks there will be several events to commemorate the anniversary. An interfaith memorial service will be held the next day on June 24th from 5 to 6 pm at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church at 1130 N. Rampart Street. GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS NOMINATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO JUNE 23RD You asked and we listened! After several request Ambush Magazine has extended the call for nominations for the 30th Annual Gay Appreciation Awards until June 23rd! Voting will take place from June 25 - July 10th and the Top 5 in each category will be announced July 14th. The GAA will be held at Oz on July 21st from 7 to 10

Inside this Issue of Ambush 6-10

Sports Southern Decadence Parade Registration Now Open

Southern Decadence Sponsorships

Southern Decadence Events

Tricentennial Profiles in History: Jon and Gypsy Lou Webb

Snap Paparazzi: Oz New Orleans

Mike Smith Selected 2018 Baton Rouge Pride Honorary Grand Marshal

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

Under the Gaydar: New Orleans Hot Happenings

LGBTQ Business Spotlight: SIPPS Bar Gulfport

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

Moments in Gay New Orleans History: The Politics of Pride

Remembering the Upstairs Lounge Fire

LGBT Owned & Friendly Business Directory

28-29

New Orleans Party Down

Trodding the Boards

State of the Epidemic - An HIV Retrospective

Snap Paparazzi: The Corner Pocket Commentary: Prison Labor is Slave Labor 34

GULF COAST PRIDE IN BILOXI MISSISSIPPI We are still in June and that means Pride month is still going strong. The Gulf Coast Association of Pride will host its second annual Gulf Coast LGBT+ Pride Day on June 30, 2018 at Point Cadet Plaza in Biloxi, MS. Pride Day 2018 will be a celebration of the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s LGBT+ Community and its allies. The event will feature live entertainment, food, artists, craft vendors, and more. For more information check out gcpride.org or follow them on Facebook @gulfcoastlgbtpride MARK YOUR CALENDARS Flash back thru the Decades 2 is a fundraiser for NOAGE and will take place June 24 from 3 to 5 pm at GrandPre’s on Rampart Street. Have a cocktail and relax as the music takes you through the decades while raising money for NOAGE. Stonewall Sports New Orleans is hosting the National Stonewall Tournament July 13-15. The tournament will offer several popular sports, including kickball, dodgeball, and volleyball. Players from all over the country will be in town for the event. For more information or to volunteer email chair@ stonewallsports.org The New Orleans Baby Cakes are hosting their first ever LGBT night when they play the Tacoma Rainiers at 1 pm on Sunday July 29th. Tickets start as low as $10 and $5 for every ticket will go to support CrescentCare. New Orleans Pride Run & Walk is hosted by the New Orleans Track Club and is scheduled for Saturday September 1st from 9 am to 12 noon at Crescent Park. You can find more information at runNOTC.org

34 42-43

Planning for Retirement When You Don’t Have Kids

Coca Mesa Brings Drag to Boomtown Casino

LGBT+ Archives Project Holds Annual Meeting

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

Book Review: Conversations with Edmund White

Commemoration Ceremonies Planned for the 45th Anniversary of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire

Leading with Pride

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

A Community within Communities: The Present Time

Gulf South LGBTQ Entertainment & Travel Guide Since 1982 New Orleans, Louisiana info@ambushpublishing.com

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STAFF PUBLISHER TJ Acosta DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Reed Wendorf EDITOR Brian Sands CONTRIBUTORS Shane Womack, Brian Sands, Tony Leggio, Frank Perez, Brian Rivas-Davi, Elisa Cool, John Harper, Persana Shoulders, Felicia Phillips, Rev. Bill Terry, Pastor Allie Rowland, Davis Walden, Rodney Thoulion, Frank Pizzolato, Jim Meadows, Scot Billeaudeau & Crescent City Sports LOCAL AD SALES sales@ambushpublishing.com Reed Wendorf Shane Womack Jim Tomeny NATIONAL AD SALES Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Ambush Magazine is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush Publishing. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 5pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: info@ambushpublishing.com. 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 Magazine. ©1982-2018 AMBUSH PUBLISHING LLC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS & PHOTOS.

4 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

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Saints Hall of Fame picks Lance Moore, Pierre Thomas had hard-earned success by Les East, Crescent City Sports

METAIRIE — Saints head coach Sean Payton has a credo that says it doesn’t matter how a player arrives in New Orleans. He can be a high draft choice, the centerpiece of a big trade, a high-priced veteran free agent or an undrafted free agent. Once players join the organization they are all on equal footing. The most deserving will earn jobs. Period. There have been no better examples of that credo being put into practice in Payton’s 11-year tenure than the careers of wide receiver Lance Moore and running back Pierre Thomas. For their lengthy and distinguished careers, which include being significant contributors to the Saints’ Super Bowl championship after the 2009 season, Moore and Thomas were introduced Thursday as the 2018 Saints Hall of Fame class. The pair will be inducted Sept. 14 and recognized two days later on the field at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome at halftime of New Orleans’ game against Cleveland. Long-time team photographer Michael Hebert also will be honored as the recipient of the Joe Gemelli Fleur de Lis Award for his contributions to the organization. “These guys didn’t start on third base,” Payton said of Moore and Thom-

“They were set,” Thomas said. as. “They had to touch all the bases.” “They didn’t need me.” Both were undrafted free agents, In turns out they did. Moore signing with the organization In fact, when Thomas left Chicaout of Toledo in 2005 and spending a go to try out in New Orleans, he drove year on the practice roster before Paydown and brought all his belongings ton arrived, and Thomas signing out of with him, convinced he’d be hanging Illinois in 2007 after Payton’s first team around a while. went to the NFC Championship Game. “I wanted to show that I deserved “These guys are identical players to be here,” Thomas said. who played different positions,” Payton Thomas was fatefully assigned said. “They’re the epitome of what we a locker next to Moore’s and the two were looking for. They were tough and became fast friends — “brothers” they clutch.” both said Thursday. Thomas made Shortly after Payton’s arrival, the the team and Pittman didn’t as Payton Saints decided to have Moore particidecided not to “double down on a mispate in NFL Europe, which was a detake” by keeping a fourth-round draft velopmental program, during the sumpick who had been mer before the 2006 Thomas was fatefully outperformed by the season. assigned a locker next undrafted free agent. “I didn’t really like “It was not a difgoing to Europe in to Moore’s and the two ficult call,” Payton 2006,” Moore said, became fast friends said. “but I needed that.” In eight seasons, Thomas accuHe wound up playing nine seasons mulated 3,745 rushing yards (fourth in New Orleans. Moore ranks fifth in in Saints history), 28 rushing touchSaints history in receptions (346), sevdowns, an average of 4.6 yards per enth in receiving yardage (4,281) and rush, 327 pass receptions, 2,608 refifth in touchdown receptions (38). ceiving yards and 12 touchdown recepWhen Thomas showed up the tions. He’s seventh in Saints history in Saints already had veteran running career yards from scrimmage (6,353) backs Deuce McAllister, Reggie Bush and eighth in total touchdowns (41). and Aaron Stecker and had just drafted Payton called Moore and Thomas Antonio Pittman in the fourth round. “key puzzle pieces” to the franchise’s only Super Bowl title. When the Saints and the Minnesota Vikings went into overtime in the 2009 NFC Championship Game in the Superdome, Thomas returned the kickoff 40 yards to the Saints 39. Seven plays later the Saints faced a fourth and 1 and Thomas ran head on into Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway, powering his way to a 2-yard again to the Minnesota 41. Moments later, Garrett Hartley kicked New Orleans into the Super Bowl with a 40-yard field goal. Two weeks later, Thomas scored the Saints’ first touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts on a 16-yard screen pass from Drew Brees on the first possession of the third quarter. That gave

New Orleans its first lead, 13-10. Later, Moore, whose post-season availability had been in doubt because of a hamstring injury that sidelined him late in the regular season, made an acrobatic catch of a two-point conversion pass from Brees that gave New Orleans a 24-17 lead with less than six minutes remaining in the game. A little while later, Brees was kneeling out the clock in a 31-17 victory. “I started running around like a chicken with my head cut off,” Thomas said. “I was screaming, “We won! We won!” Moore that said when he talks about the Super Bowl, “I still get goose bumps.” He, Thomas, Hebert and Payton spoke inside the Saints headquarters, just a few steps from where the Lombardi Trophy is displayed. In the audience were owner Gayle Benson and executives Mickey Loomis and Dennis Lauscha. Both players acknowledged Mrs. Benson’s late husband, Tom, who died of natural causes in March. Super Bowl teammates Brees, Zach Strief and Thomas Morstead were also there as was current Saints running back Mark Ingram. Moore noted that it was unusual for him and Thomas to be situated front and center because they weren’t often there as players. “I feel like I was a player who seized the opportunity when I got it,” Moore said. “My mentality was to play as if you still haven’t made it. I did that from day one until the day I decided to hang them up. “I think that epitomizes a lot of people in New Orleans — blue-collar hard workers and seizing the opportunity. This is an award for everybody.” This article was originally published by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

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Saints RB coach Joel Thomas sees potential in stable of runners beyond Ingram, Kamara by Rene Nadeau, Crescent City Sports

Thomas tallied 3,929 career yards and 51 touchdowns, finishing his days as the Idaho’s all-time leading rusher. Now, he has his hand on the pulse of the stable of of running backs in New Orleans. The one challenge the offense will be facing to begin the ’18 campaign will be overcoming the absence of Mark Ingram for the first four games. Ingram accounted for 1,171 yards rushing with 12 touchdowns last season. New Orleans was the NFC’s fourth best rushing attack last year with 2,070 yards and 23 touchdowns, averaging 4.7 yards per attempt. The yards per carry was tied for the best in the NFL. It will be difficult to replace Ingram, but Thomas feels like it is a workable problem to solve. “The strength of Mark is that he is a productive runner, he understands, he moves the chains, he plays like a big back at times. He’s consistent with his play,” Thomas explained. “And that’s what we’re looking for, to fill that void, someone has to step in, be consistent in their play.” The Saints hold an ace up their sleeve with the 2017 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, Alvin Kamara. His role will be tweaked from the ’17 cam-

paign. you can see he’s gotten better.” “It has changed from finding out Head coach Sean Payton notices who he is and what he’s doing to geta positive jump in Kamara’s game as ting to have every down availability for well. us,” Thomas described. “He was a quick study to begin Kamara accounted for 1,901 with, so there’s nuances within the runall purpose yards, third most in the ning game or passing game that come League. He ran for 794 yards and nine in year two. But he’s a guy that seldom scores. surprises you when it comes to an asAside from the signment. He knows production, Thomas what he’s doing and Scott will have the recognizes a matuhas good football best help one can as he rity and a hunger in awareness,” Payton a leader of the ofKamara. noted. “He’s been here The Saints have fense. Having Drew for 12 months. You other backs who are Brees in the huddle watch film throughcandidates to fill in for out last season. As Ingram. They all bring can be an intimidatcoaches we’re alskill set. All ing but calming affect astilldifferent ways being critical. have a learning for a young player. There are things curve. that he can improve “They’re all Brees often serves on with his game, young,” Thomas said. as a mentor to the whether it’s a subtle “They are all like a read on a slash or piece of puddy, formyoung backs. a decision on some ing into what you’d of his routes. He’s immersed himself like to get done. They all can improve.” in his playbook. He’s not dealing with Former Arkansas standout Jonaall the transition of a rookie anymore than Williams has nice size and carries and the newness of the NFL. He’s got 223 pounds on his 6-foot frame. There a little swag about himself. He’s gotten is potential there but he will have to better with Drew. He’s got a year in and show continued improvement in ball security and vision. “He has some looseness in his hips. He can maneuver a little bit. We’ll know more when the pads go on. He has some physicality as well,” said Thomas about Williams, who spent most of the 2017 season on Denver’s practice squad. The main backup to Ingram and Kamara last season was Trey EdWhether you want to provide for your loved ones, support the munds, who returns looking to take advantage of more opportunities. Like organizations that are important to you, or plan for your own Williams, he is listed at 223 pounds comfortable retirement, I can help you plan for your goals. I’ll look at and has burst to break longer runs as all aspects of your finances, then find solutions that are right for your well. unique needs. I’ll be there to adjust your plan as life unfolds. When you “Trey is still learning the offense. have the right approach, life can be brilliant. Last year he got that one game (vs. Bills with a 41 yard TD run). He just has Scot I. Billeaudeau, JD, LL.M., ADPA® to get more familiar with the QB’s and Financial Advisor what’s going on with the offense. His Waterfront Wealth Management game has improved a little bit.” A private wealth advisory practice of Daniel Lasco is an all-effort perAmeriprise Financial Services, Inc. former who sacrifices his body on spe3939 N Causeway Blvd, Ste 400 cial teams. If he can stay health, the Metairie, LA 70002 former Cal star might again secure at 504.889.1704 least a roster spot for a third season s.billeaudeau@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/s.billeaudeau with the Saints. “His high point is that he plays wreckless. He’s back again and ready to roll.” Ameriprise Financial is proud to be recognized with another perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Lasco was injured last season and Corporate Equality Index. taken off the field in an ambulance. There are also concerns about concusInvestment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise sions moving forward. Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. This week, the Saints Terrence Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. West, former third round draft pick of © 2018 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. the Cleveland Browns in 2014. He has run for 1,816 yards in the four years

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he has spent in the NFL with 11 touchdowns. His best season came in 2016, when he led the Baltimore Ravens in rushing. “He’s a between the tackles runner, good vision, runs with power. He has adequate speed, good cutting ability. He’s a very determined runner in the red zone,” said Thomas. One new addition that players, coaches and fans are all watching closely is sixth round pick Boston Scott from Louisiana Tech. The rookie ran for 1,040 yards and eight touchdowns. Undersized at just a shade less than 5-foot7, Scott is the exact same size as Jacquizz Rodgers, an eight-year NFL veteran. Scott possesses a multitude of skills that could earn him significant playing time in a variety of roles. “I think that his game continues to improve,” Thomas said. “He shows the ability to dip in and out of holes. He bounces outside. He has done well with what we have given him and will continue to build on that.” Scott, a Zachary High alum, gained 4.2 yards per carry following contact last season and caused 45 missed tackles in 180 touches. He squats 600 pounds, bench presses 405 and power cleans 390. On top of that strength, he has posted an impressive 38.5″ vertical. Add to that his 4.4 forty, and you have to think Scott has a chance to stick as a rookie and perhaps provide insurance for what Kamara brings to the offense. Scott will have the best help one can as a leader of the offense. Having Drew Brees in the huddle can be an intimidating but calming affect for a young player. Brees often serves as a mentor to the young backs. “There may be a little variation that Drew will correct or will remind them about in the huddle,” Thomas explained. “With Drew being here as long as he has, there is a lot of information in his brain. A back like Boston Scott hasn’t heard half the stuff that Drew has been through. There is a definite advantage having Drew back there with our backs.” There’s no question that the leadership and talent of Brees make it easier for running backs to succeed in the Saints offense. Whichever running backs have the chance to shine in the regular season, it will be up to them to take advantage of a (black and) golden opportunity. This article was originally published by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

8 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Alvin Gentry extension in New Orleans deserved, needed for more progress by Ken Trahan, Crescent City Sports

In the age of analytics in professional sports, the numbers have become dizzying, virtual paralysis by analysis. In the final analysis, the only number that matters is wins. As a head coach, if you have more victories than losses, chances are you will keep your job. Over the first two years of his program in New Orleans, Alvin Gentry posted a less than impressive 64-100 record with the Pelicans. While the vultures were circling what appeared to some to be an endangered species, Gentry forged ahead, kept the faith and continued to work hard. Monty Williams had issues with keeping key players on the floor, resulting in losing seasons. That has nothing to do with coaching. Crippling injuries to key contributors will cripple any team. When Williams finally got pieces in place, the Pelicans made the playoffs. It was not enough for Williams to retain his job. It is great to see Williams, a superb person and solid coach, back on the bench as an assistant coach with Philadelphia. It is a good job with a very good young team. Williams endured the cruelest of fates with the loss of his beloved wife and the mother to their children. Perhaps he deserved a better fate in New Orleans. In similar fashion, Gentry dealt with injuries to key players, along with a few bad contracts on the way to a pair of losing seasons. This past season, Jrue Holiday was finally healthy and his mind was eased after a very serious year in dealing with the health of his beloved wife. His level of play rose dramatically. Anthony Davis played like a genuine MVP candidate. Rajon Rondo provided solid leadership and made players around him better with his unselfish style of play. The addition of Demarcus Cousins from the start of the season made New Orleans an interesting and solid, but not outstanding team. Just when it appeared the Pelicans were figuring it out with Cousins, he went down. Most wrote off the season, at that point. That was a solid rationale, particularly in the deep, talented Western conference. Niko Mirotic arrived and infused offense, length and better than expected defense. New Orleans did not slip. In fact, the Pelicans played well and made an outstanding run to the playoffs. Give Dell Demps credit for Cous-

ins. Give him credit for Mirotic. Give Gentry credit for not throwing in the towel or taking the “woe is me” approach after the loss of Cousins. Give him credit for quickly assimilating Mirotic into the offense. Spacing improved, shooting improved and the style of play was fascinating, faster, fun to watch. Any good coach adjusts to his talent. In Miami, Don Shula was an NFL legend. He won Super Bowls by pounding the rock behind a brilliant offensive line, led by Larry Little, and a trio of brilliant running backs in Larry Csonka, Jim Kiick and Mercury Morris. Bob Griese was a leader and he could throw it, when necessary, to the likes of Paul Warfield. With David Woodley of LSU, an average NFL quarterback, at the helm, Shula took the Dolphins to another Super Bowl in the 1982 season. When those players aged and departed, Shula drafted Dan Marino and had Mark Duper and Mark Clayton to help the superstar passer shine and break records. Rather than force a square peg into a round hole, Shula had suddenly turned his offense into an aerial show. The Dolphins reached Super Bowl XIX in 1985. Taking a page from Shula’s example, Gentry had his team adjust on the fly last year. The best coaches at any level, in any sport, scheme and plan to the strength of their talent, rather than trying to adapt the talent to an awkward system. Unlike Williams, Gentry was able to win a playoff series, doing it without arguably the most talented center in the league. If there is a separator, that may be the rub when comparing Williams and Gentry. With a two-year extension, Gentry now has the freedom and power to approach free agents, with both sides secure in the knowledge that the coach has job security and the team, with the likes of Davis and Holiday (at the very least), will be competitive if not good. The move by Gayle Benson, Mickey Loomis and Demps to extend Gentry was a solid, sound one. Now, we await the draft, free agency and a return on the investment while accruing interest and continuing to build fan interest, which peaked by playoff time this past season. This article was originally published by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 9

Area sports PR staple Bill Curl dies at 77 by Lenny Vangilder, Crescent City Sports

Bill Curl, one of the most influential behind-the-scenes men in New Orleans and Louisiana sports history, died Friday. He was 77. Curl spent more than four decades publicizing and promoting area sports, first at Tulane University and later for the Superdome and SMG, before his retirement in 2010. Even after he retired, he continued to work on other public and media relations projects, including John Curtis Christian School and host committees for the Super Bowl and Final Four. The Ohio native arrived in New

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Orleans in 1966 when he was hired as Tulane’s sports information director. Curl quickly displayed his innovative skills, helping form the sports information directors division of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association and working with The Associated Press to institute the All-South Independent football teams, providing opportunities for individual player honors after Tulane had just left the Southeastern Conference. In an era where schools did not have separate marketing departments, it was Curl who created the concept of

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the “Year of the Green” in 1970, a season that ended with a 7-4 record and an upset victory in the Liberty Bowl over Colorado. After a brief stint at the University of Arkansas, Curl returned to New Orleans to work for the city’s tourist commission before accepting a position at the Superdome, where he worked for 33 years. Upon his return to New Orleans, he played a large role in convincing the NCAA to bring the Final Four to the Dome, which would lead to the move to bring college basketball’s biggest weekend away from traditional arenas and into domed stadiums. While Curl was working for the Dome, it landed five Final Fours, six Super Bowls and hosted a youth rally led by Pope John Paul II and the Republican National Convention. He also had a big role in helping to create events that became staples of the facility’s annual schedule. The Dome hosted the Class 4A state championship football game between Catholic League rivals Jesuit and St. Augustine in December 1978, which attracted a record crowd of 44,000. Shortly thereafter, Curl pitched the Louisiana High School Athletic Association on the idea of hosting all four state title games. With the exception of

the post-Hurricane Katrina 2005 season, the facility has hosted every football championship game since 1981 – a number which has grown from four to nine per season. In 1987, he also was an integral part in starting an early-season college baseball tournament featuring Tulane, LSU and the University of New Orleans against three schools from another state, a format that has been copied many times since. Curl was also there in September 2006 when the building re-opened for the first time after Katrina, an event that continues to signal the rebirth of a city. Curl received the Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism from the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2003 – the first honoree to receive the award outside of a university or media outlet – and was given the Billy Slatten Award from Tulane’s athletic hall of fame in 2013. He also has a plaque in the Superdome press box in his honor. His former employer paid tribute to him in a special way Friday night. This article was originally published by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

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10 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Southern Decadence Parade Registration Now Open

Southern Decadence Events SDGMs XLIV Adikus Sulpizi and Frank Perez Announce Upcoming Southern Decadence Events SDGMs XLIV Adikus Sulpizi and Frank Perez have announced the following Official Southern Decadence events:

Registration is now open for groups wanting to march in the 2018 Southern Decadence Parade. Last year, over 70 groups (consisting of over 1,000 people) marched in the parade and Parade Captains Steven Mora and Chad Boutte expect even higher numbers this year. To register as a participant,

email Southerndecadenceparadecaptain@gmail.com or call 594-239-9745. There is no charge to participate in the parade. The deadline for registration is August 19. Photo credit: Ryan Hodgson-Rigsbee

Thursday, June 21 Press Party at the Bourbon Pub / Parade Thursday, June 28 Show & Auction at the Black Penny Wednesday, July 4 Potato Salad Contest at Grand Pre’s Saturday, July 7 Pot Luck Dinner at the Double Play Wednesday, July 11 Pool Party with SDGMs XLII Jeff Palmquist & XLIII Coca Mesa Saturday, July 21 Gay Appreciation Awards at Oz Saturday, July 14 Snatch Game at the All Ways Lounge Friday, August 10 Boys in the Shower at Grand Pre’s Thursday, August 16 Cocktails and Queer History Friday, August 31 SDGMs Show at the Golden Lantern Sunday, September 2 46th Annual Southern Decadence Parade Monday, September 3 Survivor’s Bar Crawl at Corner Pocket These events are fundraisers for the 2018 Southern Decadence parade. Proceeds after the expenses of producing the parade will be donated to the official charities of Southern Decadence 2018, which will be announced at the Press Party. All monies raised will be processed through the Southern Decadence Financial Oversight Committee (Chairperson SDGM XLII Jeff Palmquist, SDGM XLII Felicia Philips, and SDGM XLI Misti Ates-Gaither).

Southern Decadence Sponsorships SDGMs XLIV Frank Perez and Adikus Sulpizi would like to thank the following businesses and individuals for being Official Sponsors of Southern Decadence 2018:

Presenting: Tours by Steven, Two Guys Cutting Hair, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, Ambush Magazine, Skyy Vodka Platinum: Tropical Isle, Jeffrey Palmquist & Coca Mesa Gold: The Black Penny, The Double Play, Two Chicks Walking Tours Silver: Tomy Acosta, Rose Barbee, Quartermaster Deli Bronze: Dr. Robert McWhirter, Helene Berot Pearl: Major Tom & Johnny Sponsorships are still available through August. For more information on being an Official Southern Decadence 2018 Sponsor, please contact SDGMs XLIV Frank Perez or Adikus Sulpizi at frankearlperez@gmail.com or adikussulpizi@ gmail.com www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 11

Tricentennial Profiles in History: Jon and Gypsy Lou Webb by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

Jon and Gypsy Lou Webb In the 1930s, Jon Web was a crime reporter in Cleveland, Ohio. One afternoon as he was hanging out at the police station waiting for someone to commit a crime, he decided to commit one himself. He excused himself to the bathroom, slipped out the window and robbed a nearby jewelry store. After stashing the jewels under a floorboard in a room he had recently rented, he dashed back to the police station, climbed in the bathroom window, and waited for the call to come in. And it did—“Jewelry Heist!”—Webb now had a story to write. For Webb, the story ended badly. A cleaning lady discovered the stash of jewels and called the police. Webb, who used his real name to rent the room, was arrested and sent to prison for three years. Upon his release in 1940, Webb

and his new seventeen-year old wife, Gypsy Lou, were restless. Jon wanted to escape his past. Gypsy Lou wanted to explore. What’s a financially broke, free-spirited couple to do? Move to New Orleans, of course. Within a few years they were entrenched in the emerging counter-culture scene of the French Quarter. They lived at the corner of Royal and St. Peter Streets. Gypsy Lou painted and sold her artwork behind the Cathedral a half a block away while Jon worked as a writer. In 1960 the Webbs founded the Loujon Press, which published books by Charles Bukowski and Henry Miller. They also published The Outsider, a literary journal that featured the work of Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Langston Hughes, Diane di Prima, Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Robert Creeley, LeRoi Jones (now known as Amiri Baraka), and William S. Burroughs, among others.

HoneyBee Trivia Thursdays 7:00 PM

Happy Hour Daily

Free Jello Shots & Bar Tab

noon - 9:00 PM

Country Dancing Tuesdays 7:00 PM

Thru the decades 6/24 3-5pm With Johnny Passion and friends A fund raiser for NOAGE

12 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

30th Annual GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS Nominations and voting will take place online at GayAppreciationAwards.com for your favorite in each of our categories provided below. NOMINATIONS: June 4 - June 23 VOTING: June 25 - July 10 TOP 5 ANNOUNCED: July 14

NOMINATION AND VOTING CATEGORIES Circuit Party of the Year Festival of the Year Gay Mardi Gras Ball of the Year Hair Salon of the Year Neighborhood Bar of Year Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award Bitch of the Year Show Club of the Year Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award Restaurant/Deli/Coffee House of the Year Dance Club of the Year Bartender of the Year DJ of the Year Leather Bar of the Year

Cheridon Comedy Award Sports League Team Spirit Award Sports League Rookie of the Year Top 10 Award (Player with most clutch plays) Fly Fashion Glamour Award LGBTQ Business of the Year Leather Person of the Year Transgender of the Year Lesbian of the Year Gay Man of the Year Marcy Marcell Entertainer of the Year The Lifetime Achievement Award Red Carpet Oscar Award

30th Annual GAA Gala

Benefiting 2018 Southern Decadence and Stonewall Sports

Saturday, July 21st • 7:00 - 10:00pm 800 Bourbon St. New Orleans

$10 Entry

news+vies.indd 2

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com 13 6/17/18 10:21 ·AM

Snap Paparazzi: Oz New Orleans Photos Courtesy of Persana Shoulders

OZ New Orleans 2-story, 24/7 gay dance club with DJs, drag shows, go-go dancers & a balcony for people-watching.

OPENING HOURS

FRI, SAT & SUN: 24/7 MON–THURS: Opens at 1PM

ADDRESS 800 Bourbon Street New Orleans, LA Phone: (504) 593-9491 14 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Remembering the Victims of the UpStairs Lounge Arson Attack 141 CHARTRES ST. NEW ORLEANS

JUNE 24, 1973

news+vies.indd 4

Joseph Henry Adams

Rev. William Ros Larson

Reginald Eugene Adams Jr.

Ferris Jerome LeBlanc

Guy David Owen Anderson

Robert Keith Lumpkin

Joseph William Bailey

Leon Richard Maples

Luther Thomas Boggs

George Steven Matyi

Louis Horace Broussard

Clarence Joseph McCloskey Jr.

Hurbert Dean Cooley

Duane George Mitchell

Donald Walter Dunbar

Larry Dean Stratton

Adam Roland Fontenot

Eddie Hosea Warren

David Stuart Gary

James Curtis Warren

Horace Winslow Getchell

Willie Inez Whatley Warren

John Thomas Golding Sr.

Dr. Perry Lane Waters Jr.

Gerald Hoyt Gordon

Douglas Maxwell Williams Jr.

Glenn Richard Green

Unidentified White Male

James Walls Hambrick

Unidentified White Male

Kenneth Paul Harrington

Unidentified White Male

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 15 6/18/18 12:22 AM

Mike Smith Selected 2018 Baton Rouge Pride Honorary Grand Marshal Baton Rouge Pride recognized another outstanding individual when the annual BR Pride festival was held from noon until 7 p.m. on June 16 at the Raising Cane’s River Center Arena. This year’s honorary grand marshal for Baton Rouge Pride – Mike Smith – is a familiar face to most people who have participated in BR Pride over the past decade. Smith was a member of the BR Pride team and the coordinator of its resource fair for 10 years, as well as the man in charge of door prizes and a variety of other tasks throughout his tenure with the team. He also has represented Baton Rouge Pride at a variety of other pride festivals around the area including Acadiana Pride, CenLa Pride, Lake Charles Pride, Mobile Pride and New Orleans Pride – in addition to visits to far-flung locations like Chicago Pride and Victoria (British Columbia, Canada) Pride. But his involvement in the community certainly doesn’t begin or end with BR Pride or pride festivities. Among his many activities, Smith has been co-leader for the Metropolitan Community Church South Gulf Coast Network for the past six years and lay delegate/alternate lay delegate for MCC of Baton Rouge for the past

nine years – in addition to serving as a dedicated volunteer and administrative assistant for MCCBR for the past 12 years. Known as “Mr. Purple Hair” to many of his friends and acquaintances, Smith also is a member of the Mystic Krewe of Apollo Baton Rouge, where he’s a lieutenant for its 2019 ball, a board member this year and chairman of its membership committee. He has costumed all four years as a Krewe member, and his humorous representations of a “Bad Baby,” “Which Came First: The Chicken or the Egg?” “The Holy Cow Casino,” and “Noah’s (Rainbow) Ark” are reflective of his personality and his outlook on life. Other activities include being a member of the Renegade Bears of Louisiana and the Krewe of King Arthur, as well as serving on the first organizing committee for the Baton Rouge Equality March (also known as the Pride March), serving one term as a board member for MCCBR, assisting with Forum for Equality Candidate interviews and serving as co-director of the Miss Louisiana Plus Size Pageants for six years. While he joins the growing ranks of those honored as BR Pride grand marshals for their dedication and service

to the Baton Rouge community, Smith also is known throughout the community as “one of a kind.” “In the 12 years or so that I’ve known him, Mike Smith truly is one of those people who ‘never meets a stranger,’” said BR Pride Chairman Emeritus Tom Merrill. “He’s a loyal friend, and it’s rare he crosses paths with people who don’t like him instantly. “Mike is a person who can be counted on to get any job done, and his dedication to serving our community is enormous,” Merrill continued. “But he’s also the sort of person you want to have as a traveling companion or a drinking buddy.” Although Smith certainly is much more focused on service than on rewards, his dedication has been recognized with awards such as the 2016 MCC International Network Award and twice as the winner of MCCBR’s Discipleship Award. His humor and his personality also have led to such awards as being named Mr. Chumley’s Bear Cruise in 2015 and BR Pride’s Mr. Trailer Trash in 2014. “It is with great pleasure that we get to recognize Mike Smith for his dedication and service to the Baton Rouge community,” said BR Pride Co-Chair John Deshotel Jr., who himself was the

BR Pride honorary grand marshal for 2017. “I’m glad for the time I’ve been able to work with him but even more happy to call him my friend.” Baton Rouge Pride began recognizing individuals as honorary grand marshals during its third year when it recognized Richard Dykes, owner of George’s Place, in 2009. Subsequent honorees were Larry Fremin, a founder of the Krewe of Apollo Baton Rouge, in 2010; James Chinn, also known as Trixxie LaRue, a longtime entertainer and activist, 2011; Daphne Mushatt, longtime entertainer and community supporter, 2012; Carol Frazier and Jody Huckaby, leaders of PFLAG locally and nationally, 2013; Cami Miller and Joe Traigle, early organizers and leaders of Capital City Alliance, 2014; Rev. Keith Mozingo, pastor of MCC of Baton Rouge and one of the founders of Baton Rouge Pride, and Whitney Vann, TV personality and longtime community friend, 2015; Kayla Mulford, president of Capital City Alliance and a diligent community activist, 2016; and John Deshotel Jr., a longtime leader of Baton Rouge Pride and the Krewe of Apollo, 2017.

16 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio Photos by Tony Leggio

At the pride festival and parade

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 17

Under the Gaydar: New Orleans Hot Happenings by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com

Once again, Pride was a fabulous weekend filled with lots of exciting events. But the summer is just starting, so here are a few of the hot happenings to keep your interest. (If you have a fundraiser, party, show or event coming up and would like to be listed in the calendar, please email me at ledgemgp@gmail.com). Tuesday, June 19, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke with the winner gets a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball. Tequila Tuesdays: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd; Open to close. Features $5 Tequila Sunrises, $6 house margaritas, $7 peach or strawberry margaritas and $7 Patron shots. Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m. Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m. Bourbon Boylesque: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the Men of Oz like you have nev-

er seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx. Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is a one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag. Twofer Tuesdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drinks special is two-for-one drinks until 10 p.m. Wednesday, June 20, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrollton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity. See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends... You Better Sing Karaoke;Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street;

RESTAURANT & BAR LARGE COVERED PATIO ON ESPLANADE

DAILY SPECIALS Open 11am – 10pm Daily Except Mondays

HAPPY HOUR WEEKDAYS 4 – 6PM

SUNDAY BRUNCH 11AM – 3PM $1 MIMOSAS $3 SANGRIAS & BLOODY MARYS

THE TRADITION LIVES ON AT

3201 ESPLANADE AVE. · 948-0077

9 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill. Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean. Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game Night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. and free jello shots and Bar Tabs. Half-Price Hump Days (Wednesdays): Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m. Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers. Wine Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd; 5 p.m. - close. $15 bottles of wine. Thursday, June 21, 2018 Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night. Southern Decadence Press Party; The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 7 - 9 p.m. Join SDGMs XLIV Frank Perez and Adikus Sulpizi as they reveal this year’s Official Theme, Colors, Poster, Song, Charities, and Entourages at the Annual Southern Decadence Press Party! This will be a fantastic show to kick off 2018’s Southern Decadence Season. Admission is $10. Meet The Locals: The Country Club; 634 Louisa Street; 7 – 9 p.m. Come experience local breweries and neighborhood personalities. ALL LOCAL beer, Shindig Vodka, Parade Rums, Crescent Vodka, and Roulaison Rum will be $5 each. This is hosted by the Country Club in conjunction with Secondline Brewing with special surprises to be announced! Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush brings you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night. The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off:Oz New Orleans; 800

Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Three-Dollar Thursdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night. Bring Your Own Meat Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 6 - 8 p.m. Bring your own meat for the grill and the bar will have all the sides. Friday, June 22, 2018 Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites. Play Girlz: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. Drag show featuring Gia GiaVanni and special guests. New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize. Long Island Fridays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $5 Long Island Iced Teas all day and night. Big Easy Sisters Beer Bust: The Phoenix; 941 Elysian Fields Ave.; 9 p.m. - midnight. Come join the BIG EASY SISTERS for their bi-monthly Beer Bust! $10 unlimited daft beer with all proceeds going to local charities. FlamBOYant: The AllWays Lounge & Cabaret; 2240 St. Claude Ave.; 11 p.m. – 1 a.m. AtomycWolf presents flamBOYant: a monthly show bringing the art of Boylesque to a new level, fully stripped. The flamBOYS will grace the stage with conceptual art and striptease that will stimulate all of your mind and body. Hosted by the non-binary wonder Atomyc Adonis with all the flamBOYS for the new revolution of BOYlesque here in New Orleans. $10 cover. Take It Off Friday: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway; 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. Join the Four Seasons for their weekly Take It Off Friday Party! What are you willing to show for CHEAP or FREE COCKTAILS?? 9pm-10pm - Shirtless= $1 Cocktails; 12am-12:30am - Underwear= FREE Cocktails; 9pm-2am Bartender’s Choice Shots = $1 Saturday, June 23, 2018 Lords of Leather Annual Pool Party: 708 France Street; 2 – 5 p.m. $15 ticketed donation in advance, $20 donation at the door! Come for an afContinued on Page 20

18 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Tropical Isle: Hand Grenade | Wood Enterprises www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 19

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ternoon of burgers, hot dogs, snacks, drinks and a cool/refreshing swimming pool! There will be AUCTION items available, and, RAFFLE! The $1,000 Cash Winning RAFFLE Ticket will be drawn! ($10 raffle ticket(s) are available now and/or at the event prior to the 4pm raffle drawing). Proceeds go toward Bal Masque XXXVI! This is a clothing optional pool with separate play area. Cell phones must be checked at the door. This is a safe, all-inclusive space with zero tolerance for non-consensual behavior. Purchase advance tickets at: https://mystic-krewe-of-lords-of-leather.ticketleap.com. Krewe of Stars Royalty Showcase:

Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture; 1010 Conti Street; 6 – 10 p.m. The Krewe of Stars is having their celebration party announcing the King and Queen of the Krewe, Queen Chris Owens and King Mark Davison. The timetable is 6pm Royalty Reception with Queen’s Tea (Crowns and Tiaras Encouraged); 7pm Royalty Announcement; 7:30pm Festive Procession to Chris Owens Club; 8pm Royalty Mix and Show. Upstairs Inferno 45th Anniversary Commemorative Panel and Screening: The Broad Theatre; 636 N. Broad; 5 – 7 p.m. The documentary Upstairs Inferno returns to the big screen for ONE NIGHT ONLY! The Upstairs In-

ferno special screening will be held on the eve of the anniversary, June 23 at 5pm. Buy your tickets at http://Tix. UpstairsInferno.com. Director Robert L. Camina returns to host a discussion immediately after the film. He will be joined by special guests, Marilyn LeBlanc-Downey and Skip Bailey (sister and nephew of Ferris LeBlanc, one of the arson victims buried in the Pauper’s Cemetery). This award-winning documentary takes audiences to an unforgettable emotional space unparalleled by secondhand accounts or the written word alone. Music of Vanessa Carr Kennedy; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy songstress Va-

nessa as she sings some of the tops hits of yesterday and today. Divas R Us; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. This wonderful drag show directed by Monica Sinclaire Kennedy includes a special guests stars. Piano Bar with Trey Ming; Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 4 - 7 p.m. Sing along with your favorite songs with Talented piano player Trey Ming. CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink specials are $5 Hurricanes all day and night and from 8 - 10 p.m. Doubles for the price of a Single on all Continued on Page 21

20 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

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alcohol.

Sunday, June 24, 2018 Pancakes for the Postulants: St. Anna’s Episcopal Church; 1313 esplanade Avenue; Noon. There will be a pancake fundraiser after mass to benefit our postulants for holy orders, Allison Reid and Luigi Mandile. Luigi and Allison are about to begin their formal training to become a deacon (Luigi) and a priest (Allison). This fundraiser will help defray the costs they incur (such as travel and textbooks) during their training. A donation of $10 or more will get you all you can eat pancakes. Bottomless Sundays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street. The drink special is $15 Bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Bottomless Mimosas:Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 1 - 4 p.m. Bottomless Mimosas are offered upstairs from 1 - 4 p.m. for $12. You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and special guests. Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest. Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean. Drink Drown and Drag: The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 6 - 9 p.m. Sunday Funday upstairs at The Parade. $15 Drink and Drown from 6 - 9 p.m. with a star studded drag show starting at 8 p.m. Flashback Through The Decades 2 for NOAGE: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 3 - 5 p.m. NOAGE is flashing back thru the decades from the present all the way back to 1950’s. The area’s premiere performers will each represent a decade to showcase their talents and fierceness! Hosted by Monique Michaels-Alexander and Johnny Passion. All monies will be donated to NOAGE - New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders! Suggested $10 donation at the door. Monday, June 25, 2018 Karaoke Monday: The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy happy hour prices all night long. Hosted by Denny with VJ Dollabill. S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis Street; Starting at 9 p.m. Come drink with Ashlee. Get your SIN

card and receive $2.50 canned beer Margarita Mondays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 margaritas all day and night. Pool Tournament: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 9:45 p.m. $2 PBR and $50 gift certificate for Rawhide Tuesday, June 26, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke with the winner gets a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball. Country Dance Lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m. Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m. Bourbon Boylesque: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx. Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag. Twofer Tuesdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drinks special is two for one drinks until 10 p.m. Tequila Tuesdays: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd; Open to close. Features $5 Tequila Sunrises, $6 house margaritas, $7 peach or strawberry margaritas and $7 Patron shots. Wednesday, June 27, 2018 Reclaiming The Fire - The Legacy of the Upstairs Lounge: Williams Research Center; 410n Chartres Street; 6 - 7:30 p.m. Participants in this historic panel discussion include Royd Anderson, director of the documentary The UpStairs Lounge Fire; Clayton Delery, author of The Up Stairs Lounge Arson: Thirty-Two Deaths in a New Orleans Gay Bar, June 24, 1973; Clancy DuBos, journalist; Robert W. Fieseler, author of Tinderbox: The Untold Story of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire and the Rise of Gay Liberation. The panel discussion will be moderated by Frank Perez, president of the LGBT+ Archives Project. The event will also feature a reading and book signing for Fieseler’s new book. This free public program is presented by The Historic New Orleans Collection in collaboration with the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana. More information is available at www.hnoc.org and by calling (504) 523-4662. NOAGE Monthly Potluck: Community Church Unitarian Universalist at 6690 Fleur di Lis Drive; 6:30 -

8:30 p.m. Please join the New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders for another potluck at the Drifter! Come to eat, come to meet new folks, come to network, come to enjoy a summer night. The Drifter is an accessible space, so if you need to avoid the (one or two) steps, please call Mike at 423-5051488 as you’re arriving. WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrolton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity. See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends. You Better Sing Karaoke; Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke atCafe Lafitte in Exile. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill. Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean. Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game Night with Honey Bee at 7

p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs. Half-Price Hump Days (Wednesdays): Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m. Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers Wine Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd; 5 p.m. - close. $15 bottles of wine. Thursday, June 28, 2018 Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night. Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is brings you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night. The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 Continued on Page 22

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p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive: 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Three-Dollar Thursdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night. Bring Your Own Meat night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 6 - 8 p.m. Bring your own meat for the grill and the bar will have all the sides.

traditional 5th Friday (Filth Friday) Beer Bust! $10 Beer Bust (unlimited keg beer); snacks, sodas, and $1 Jello Shots and Gummy shots. Leather Love and Laughter are always free! Funds go toward Bal Masque XXXVI. Take It Off Friday: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway; 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. Join the Four Seasons for their weekly Take It Off Friday Party! What are you willing to show for CHEAP or FREE COCKTAILS?? 9pm-10pm - Shirtless= $1 Cocktails; 12am-12:30am - Underwear= FREE Cocktails; 9pm-2am Bartender’s Choice Shots = $1

Friday, June 29, 2018 Long Island Fridays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $5 Long Island Iced Teas all day and night. Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites. Play Girlz: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. Drag show featuring Gia GiaVanni and special guests. New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize. Lords of Leather 5th Friday Beer Bust: The Phoenix; 941 Elysian Fields Ave.; 9 p.m. - midnight. The krewe’s

Saturday, June 30, 2018 Piano Bar with Trey Ming; Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 4 - 7 p.m. Sing along with your favorite songs with Talented piano player Trey Ming. Music of Vanessa Carr Kennedy; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy songstress Vanessa as she sings some of the tops hits of yesterday and today. Divas R Us; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. This wonderful drag show directed by Monica Sinclaire Kennedy includes a special guests stars. CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink specials are $5 Hurricanes all day and night and from 8 - 10 p.m. Doubles for the price of a Single on all

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alcohol. Beauties and Beaus: The Four Seasons; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 10:30 p.m. - 2 a.m. Glamour Puss Productions & Lana O’Day present Beauties & Beaus: A Variety Show of the Sexy Nature. The 3rd edition stars host Lana O’Day, Miss Gay Louisiana USofA 2018 Britney DeLorean, Burlesque Beauty Roxie Le Rouge, Booty-ful Boylesquer Atomyc Adonis, The Handsome Ham Himself... Justin Betweener, and New Orleans Drag Workshop Draguate Luna Rei. NO COVER. It’s Showtime on Rampart Street: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 10 p.m. Come out to see Moanalot Fontaine and special guests perform at this lively and entertaining show. Sunday, July 1, 2018 Bottomless Sundays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $15 Bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Bottomless Mimosas: Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 1 - 4 p.m. Bottomless Mimosas are offered upstairs from 1 - 4 p.m. for $12. Trash Disco: Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 4 - 9 p.m. THE ORIGINAL TRASH DISCO with the Famous Napkin Toss! Step back to the days of Disco and remember you will never know when the napkins hit the air. Now Up stairs and Down stairs. You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and special guests. Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo with hosts Opal Masters followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest. Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean. Drink Drown and Drag: The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 6 - 9 p.m. Sunday Funday upstairs at The Parade. $15 Drink and Drown from 6 - 9 p.m. with a star studded drag show starting at 8 p.m. Monday, July 2, 2018 Karaoke Monday: The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy happy hour prices all night long. Hosted by Denny with VJ Dollabill. S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis Street; Starting at 9 p.m Come drink with Ashlee. Get your SIN card and receive $2.50 canned beer or

well drinks and $1.50 draft. Margarita Mondays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 margaritas all day and night. Pool Tournament: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 9:45 p.m. $2 PBR and $50 Gift Certificate for Rawhide Tuesday, July 3, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke with the winner gets a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball. Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m. Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m. Bourbon Boylesque: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx. Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag. Twofer Tuesdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drinks special is two for one drinks until 10 p.m. Tequila Tuesdays: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd; Open to close. Features $5 Tequila Sunrises, $6 house margaritas, $7 peach or strawberry margaritas and $7 Patron shots. Wednesday, July 4, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrollton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity. See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends. You Better Sing Karaoke; Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke atCafe Lafitte in Exile. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill. Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean. Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays

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are Game Night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs. Half-Price Hump Days (Wednesdays): Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m. Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers. Wine Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd; 5 p.m. - close. $15 bottles of wine. Thursday - Sunday, July 5 - 8, 2018 2018 Essence Festival, known as “the party with a purpose”. This annual music festival is the largest event celebrating African-American culture and music in the United States. It features artists simultaneously performing on a main stage as well as four superlounge stages. For tickets or more information, go to www.festival.essence.com

Thursday, July 5, 2018 Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night. Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is brings you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night. The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana

Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Three-Dollar Thursdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night. Bring Your Own Meat Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 6 - 8 p.m. Bring your own meat for the grill and the bar will have all the sides. Friday, July 6, 2018 Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites. Play Girlz: Golden Lantern; 1239

Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. Drag show featuring Gia GiaVanni and special guests. New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize. Long Island Fridays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $5 Long Island Iced Teas all day and night. Take It Off Friday: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway; 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. Join the Four Seasons for their weekly Take It Off Friday Party! What are you willing to show for CHEAP or FREE COCKTAILS?? 9pm-10pm - Shirtless= $1 Cocktails; 12am-12:30am - Underwear= FREE Cocktails; 9pm-2am Bartender’s Choice Shots = $1

Get Your Event Listed

If you want to make sure your upcoming event is listed, email the information to me at ledgemgp@gmail.com.

The Double Play

I T I

s n

Margarita Mondays $3.00 Margaritas from Open to Close

CAT 5 HURRICANE Tuesdays $5.00 Hurricanes from Open to Close

LONG ISLAND WEDNESDAYS $5.00 Long Island Iced Teas from Open to Close

Three Dollar Thursdays

$3.00 Jagermeister & Fireball Shots from Open to Close

HALf-PRICE Fridays

All Drinks are half price from open until 10:00 PM

DOUBLE DOWN SATURDAYS

439 Dauphine Street New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 523-4517

Doubles for the price of singles from OPEN UNTIL 10:00 PM

DEEP EDDY Sundays

$3 deep eddy VODKA drinks from open to close

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 23

LGBTQ Business Spotlight: SIPPS Bar Gulfport by Shane Womack Email: shane@ambushpublishing.com

‘Sipp’ Your Night Away in Gulfport A cold beer, cool patio, billiard tables, a dance floor and convenient location make Sipps a staple “everyone’s included” bar in downtown Gulfport. Since opening in 2015 by New Orleans native, Jeffrey Mayeux, the local hangout doesn’t aim to brand itself as a typical gay bar, but set out to become a space where everyone felt welcome. Sipps has been voted Best Nightlife on the Coast and Best Neighborhood Bar in the State of Mississippi. “Our bar is all about our community,” explains Mayeux. “Sipps has become a place just to have a good time. We host fundraisers for our local gay pride and our Equality Fest which is sponsored by Harrah’s and many more.” Mayeux moved from New Orleans to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 2013, and also owns two other local businesses, Marble Slab and Planet Beach. Following the closing of a bar that previously occupied the space that Sipps is now in, he jumped on the op-

portunity and now owns an award-winning home to drag shows and special events that fill their calendar monthly. Sipps recently hosted a sold out event featuring Season 10 Top 3 finalist Kameron Michaels of the hit VH1 show RuPaul’s Drag Race. Regular Sipps special events include “Happy Hour 5pm - Close” on Mondays. “Tipsy Tuesdays” features $2 well and domestics. “WTF Wednesdays” with $1 Wells is from 9pm - 12am. “Drink N Drown” Thursdays include a season airing of RuPaul’s Drag Race and a local Drag Show at 11pm. Earlier this year, the club made national news after Sipps bartender Kara Coley received a phone call from a woman. She was surprised when the voice on the phone asked, “Is this a gay bar?” It turned out to be a mother who had called the local bar to reach out and ask for advice as her son had recently came out to her and she wanted to say the right things. Coley posted the conversation on her facebook page and garnered hundreds of likes and comments. Mayeux admits he doesn’t get a

lot of downtime, but enjoys spending time with his friends on the coast and spends a least four days a week at Crossfit. In his free time, he enjoys traveling back home to New Orleans, visiting Atlanta, Costa Rica and an occasional trip to Pensacola when he needs to get away for a weekend. The welcoming and friendly staff

at Sipps are ready to make your crew enjoy a night out to remember whether you’re a local or just in town visiting the nearby attractions or casinos. Sipps is open daily on weekdays from 5pm - till, weekends from 5pm - 2am, and is located at 2218 25th Ave, Gulfport, MS. For more information, visit sippsgulfport.com or call (228) 206-7717.

Jeffrey Palmquist

Complete with Southern charm and a devilish smile, it’s easy to see why Jeff is popular with both locals and visitors alike. He is known also for his special Jeff Juice, which is a vodka based libation with lots of secret ingredients which he will not divulge. You have to love a man of mystery. Jeff is also very prominent in the gay community helping out with lots of causes, especially the Annual Red Party at Lafitte’s which benefits local charities such as Food for Friends. He also has been Grand Reveler I for Frank Perez’s 12th Night Celebration and one of the Grand Marshals of Southern Decadence XLII. I asked him what his favorite drink to make is and he said that his margaritas bring all the boys to the “bar.” Now that is a good drink. He explains he loves his job because you meet different people all the time. He has seen it all, including one particular time when Nicolas Cage came in wearing a kinky leather outfit. So go to Cafe Lafitte in Exile (901 Bourbon Street) and get some Jeff Juice!

Bartender of the Month by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com

My bartender for the month of June is a stalwart in the gay cocktail scene for almost two decades. He is one of the most popular bartenders in the gay community and one of my favorite people at Cafe Lafitte in Exile. I am talking about Jeffrey Palmquist. Hailing from Mitchell, South Dakota, Jeff was a frequent visitor to our city every year. He would come down with his roommate during the summer for two months at a time while he taught school. He finally took the plunge and moved to the Crescent City in 2001. Jeff works the front bar downstairs at Cafe Lafitte’s. His hours normally are afternoon through Happy Hour. You will know his section; he has a regular crowd of locals who visit him everyday. Jeff is a premier bartender. He has amazing skills behind the bar as well as excellent customer skills due to his engaging personality. Not only is he fast, especially when there is a crowd, but he acknowledges you when you enter and has a great memory for people’s favorite cocktail.

24 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio Photos by Tony Leggio

At the Creole Tomato Festival Judge the Bloody Mary Contest

At the Kettle One Party at 530 Bourbon

At Daryl Dunaway’s Party at Rob’s Gumbo Shop

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 25

Moments in Gay New Orleans History: The Politics of Pride by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

The Politics of Pride

One of the first posts I saw on Facebook this morning was a picture of Mayor Cantrell standing in front of City Hall smiling broadly under a rainbow flag. It must be Pride month. I don’t know how the Mayor truly feels about LGBTQ people. I hope the sentiments expressed in the picture are sincere. What I do know is we’ve come a long way when politicians are eager to pose with rainbow flags to express their support of our community. It wasn’t always so. A Pride flag waving from City Hall. Rainbow banners on N. Rampart. Police escorts during the Pride and Southern Decadence Parades. A

non-discrimination ordinance. All of this would have been unthinkable to the 32 people who died in 1973 at the Up Stairs Lounge. June 24 marks the 45th anniversary of the Up Stairs Lounge fire. Back then, homosexuality was still considered a mental disorder. Police raids of gay bars were de rigueur and being outed often resulted in being fired from a job or evicted from an apartment. Jail and mental asylums were a strong possibility too. As far as society was concerned, it was not okay to be gay. After that terrible arson—the deadliest fire in New Orleans history—the politicians were silent. Moon Landrieu was the Mayor of New Orleans then.

Robert Menuet, LCSW Relationship Therapy and Marriage Counseling TherapistOrleans.com 504-219-1446 Untitled-1 1

Eight months before the fire at the Up Stairs Lounge, there was a fire at the Rault Center, a high-rise office complex, that claimed six lives. Moon hastily left a conference of U.S. Mayors he was attending in Indiana to return to New Orleans to address the crisis. Leading the grieving city, he declared the victims were “mourned not only by those who knew them, but by New Orleanians in all walks of life.” A month and a half later, a sniper on the rooftop of the Howard-Johnson hotel killed nine people and injured thirteen. Moon was quick on the scene to help with negotiations. Moon would later say the incident was “perhaps the most tragic criminal act in the history of New Orleans.” He also declared a state of citywide mourning and called for blood donors. Moon made public statements after the fire at the Rault Center (6 dead) and the Howard-Johnson incident (9 dead), but 32 dead at a fire at a gay bar? Crickets. Moon’s silence is odd given his progressive track record. When he ran for Mayor in 1969, he actually campaigned at Cafe Lafitte in Exile and one of his chief supporters was Leon Irwin III, an Uptown Insurance man whose gayness was an open secret. After the election, he appointed outed business leader Clay Shaw to the French Market Corporation.

And Moon was well ahead of his time with regard to racial issues. He made good on his campaign promise to integrate City Hall and was dubbed “Moon McCoon” by the Ku Klux Klan. The Mayor was out of the country when the fire occurred. He had traveled to Copenhagen, Denmark to visit its famed Tivoli Gardens, which Moon hoped to use as a model for a park honoring Louis Armstrong, who had recently died. Moon returned two weeks after the fire. At his first press conference upon returning (July 11), Moon offered an inane comment about the need for sprinkler systems in buildings. When local reporter Bill Rushton (himself gay) of the Vieux Carre Courier pressed him on the fact that the Up Stairs Lounge was a gay bar, the Mayor responded, “I’m just as concerned about that life as any other life. I was not aware of any lack of concern in the community.” These comments were not reported in the Times-Picayune or the States Item. That life. Not life but “that life.” Lord Alfred Douglas’ famous line, “The love that dare not speak its name,” originally published in 1894 still resonated in 1973. Thankfully, it doesn’t resonate quite as much in 2018. Happy Pride.

6/13/18 4:55 PM

26 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Remembering the Upstairs Lounge Fire by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

[Originally published in Ambush Volume 31 Issue 12 June 11 - 24, 2013] On Sunday evening, June 24, 1973, the deadliest crime against gays and lesbians in the history of the United States occurred at the Upstairs Lounge in the French Quarter. On that night an arsonist set the gay bar on fire killing 32 people and injuring still more. Many people, then and now, mistakenly believe the fire was a hate crime motivated by homophobia. It wasn’t. Rather, the crime was motivated by anger and revenge. On that fateful evening, an unruly hustler, Rodger Dale Nunez, was thrown out of the bar for badgering and fighting with a regular customer, Mike Scarborough. Scarborough was in the bathroom when Nunez, who was in the next stall, started harassing him through the glory hole. Scarborough complained to the bartender. As he was being escorted out of the bar, Nunez threatened to “burn you all out.” About thirty minutes later, a fire broke out on the stairwell. Then the buzzer in the bar rang which usually meant a cab had arrived. Luther Boggs, a regular at the lounge, opened the door to the stairwell to be greeted by roaring flames. As the fire spread, panic ensued. Bartender Buddy Rasmussen led about twenty people through a rear fire exit which was not clearly marked. Many dashed for the windows but the windows had burglar bars. A few were skinny enough to squeeze through but the others were doomed. Katherine Kirsch was on her way to buy cigarettes around 7:45pm when she smelled smoke at the corner of Iberville and Chartres. She opened the stairwell, saw the flames and immediately ran to the Midship Bar next door to call the police. Fire trucks arrived about two minutes later. They were met by a grizzly, horrific scene. The lifeless body of Bill Larson, Pastor of the local Metropolitan Community Church, was wedged in the window, his face and right arm protruding stiffly over the street. Buddy Rasmussen saw his boyfriend, Adam Fontenot, knocked off his feet with a blast from a fire hose while he flayed around on fire. George Mitchell escaped the fire but ran back in to rescue his boyfriend, Louis Broussard; their bodies were found intertwined, thereby occupying in death a position they saw often occupied in life. Many of the dead were burned beyond recognition but were ultimately identified through the dental records of local den-

tist Perry Waters, who also perished in the fire. Thirty men and two women died as a result of the arson. Nunez, who drunkenly confessed to the crime to friends on more than one occasion, committed suicide the following year. Some believe Nunez killed himself because he was so filled with remorse. Initial media reports and the police response to the fire were less than sympathetic. Some family members of the deceased refused to claim the ashes of their “loved” ones. Radio commentators joked the remains should be buried in fruit jars. The States-Item graphically described the aftermath of the fire: “workers stood knee deep in bodies . . . the heat had been so intense, many were cooked together.” On the issue of identifying the victims, Major Henry Morris, a detective with the New Orleans Police Department said, “We don’t even know these papers belonged to the people we found them on. Some thieves hung out there, and you know this was a queer bar.” At the time, many gay men routinely carried false identification to gay bars in order to avoid being outed in the newspapers in the event they were arrested during a police raid. While the media coverage was cruel and the police response was nonchalant, the religious establishment’s reaction was downright hateful. Church after church after church refused the use of their facilities for a memorial service. Father Bill Richardson (himself believed to be a closeted gay man) of St. George’s Episcopal Church, however, believed the dead should have a service and graciously allowed, over the protest of many parishioners, the use of St. George’s sanctuary for a prayer service on Monday night which was attended by roughly 80 people. He was subsequently chastised by his bishop and received no small amount of hate mail. Days later a Unitarian Church also held a small memorial service. A larger service was held on July 1 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church on the edge of the French Quarter. Reverend Troy Perry, founder of the Metropolitan Community Church, officiated the service at St. Mark’s along with Methodist Bishop Finis Crutchfield, who would die 14 years later from AIDS. After the service, Reverend Perry pointed out a side entrance for those who wished to avoid the television cameras which waited outside the main entrance. Of the estimated 250 people in attendance, no one took his offer.

The Upstairs Lounge arson attracted gay activists from all over the country to New Orleans. Reverend Troy Perry and others criticized the gay community of New Orleans for its apathetic attitude and general lethargy regarding the gay liberation movement so much in vogue in other American cities at the time. Local bar owners concerned about how all the attention might affect their businesses and prominent gay men who had grown comfortable with their place in the order of things responded by calling Perry and the other activists “carpetbaggers” and “outside agitators.” Despite these objections, the fire motivated a handful of activists to form the Gay People’s Coalition (GPC). The GPC launched a publication, Causeway, and established a Gay Crisis Phone Line. Causeway was edited anonymously by Bill Rushton, then a student at Tulane University, who also edited the Vieux Carre’ Courier. An editorial from the January 1974 edition of Causeway boldly declared, “There are enough gay men and women in N.O. who are able to do anything they wish— be it swinging an election or electing a gay city councilman.” This clarion call, while certainly true, fell on deaf ears. As the embers of the fire cooled, so did the ire of the gay community. In what was to become the dominant pattern of gay activism in New Orleans, the GPC, and Causeway, eventually fad-

ed away. Former Baptist minister Mike Stark formed the Gay Services Center, located on Burgundy in the Marigny, in 1974. Initially the group enjoyed a flurry of activity, including the publication of a newsletter, the Closet Door. But the group’s promise was never fulfilled; in a familiar pattern, the newsletter and the group were soon moribund. The Upstairs Lounge fire was a seminal moment in the history of gay New Orleans, the significance of which was even noticed by the arch-conservative Times-Picayune. A month and a half after the fire, the paper published a week-long series of six articles, all written by Joan Treadway, concerning homosexuality, the first of which was titled, “Gay Community Surfaces in Tragedy of N.O. Fire.” The tone of the article is surprisingly objective and Treadway even quotes local gay activists who succinctly summarized the multitude of dilemmas facing gay New Orleanians, namely police harassment, job and housing discrimination, and general societal alienation. In addition to forcing straight New Orleans to acknowledge its gay community, the fire also forced the gay community in New Orleans to confront itself. In this regard, the fire was our Stonewall—a wakeup call that sparked the activism of the 1970s and caused gays and lesbians in New Orleans to mature as a community.

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Engel & Völkers New Orleans ∙ +1 504-875-3555 ∙ neworleans@evusa.com 722 Martin Behrman Ave., Metairie, LA 70005 ©2018 Engel & Völkers. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Licensed in Louisiana.

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LGBT Owned & Friendly Business Directory

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Freelance & Contributing Writers Wanted

We want to hear from you if you are a working or aspiring journalist interested in covering topics meaningful to the LGBTQ community.

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Do you frequent the LGBTQ bars and events? We want to hear from you if you are interested in regularly covering the bars and events.

If you are interested, please email your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to info@ambushpublishing.com

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] 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 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 BIG EASY DAIQUIRIS, 216 Bourbon, 501 Bourbon, 409 Decatur, 617 Decatur 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. Café Lafitte in Exile is the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the United States. 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. Designed for a casual night out or a quiet evening with that special someone, we offer a wide selection of liquor, beer, and the world renowned Separator. GRANDPRE’S, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615, Facebook.com/grandpres KAJUN’S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735, KajunPub.COM MAG’S 940, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM THE PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 875.4976 PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, www.phoenixbarnola.com Rawhide 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM. Leather, Dark Rooms, & Bears All Around. You can feel the throb of excitement and smell it in the air. This isn’t just a bar. This is an experience! TROPICAL ISLE: Home of the Hand Grenade, 721 Bourbon St., 529.4109, TropicalIsle.COM VALIANT THEATRE AND LOUNGE, 6621 St. Claude Ave., Arabi, LA, 504.900.1743 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY’S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave.,

207.3271

bookstores

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

circuit/events

Easter Sunday, April 11, 2018, 19th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade. com

costumes

New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633

galleries

New Orleans, LA [504] CASSELL-BERGEN GALLERY, 1305 Decatur St., cassellbergengallery.com, 504.524.0671

guides

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] 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. More than just a hardware store, Mary’s Ace French Quarter Hardware also features an extensive selection of kitchen and bath items upstairs.

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. [0118] 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 “half-kitchen”, courtyard and half-open tubhouse with spa (hot tub/ whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. [0815] The french quarter guest houses, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 1.800.367.5858, FrenchQuarterGuest-

28 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Houses.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!

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, P.O. Box 2587, LaPlace, LA 70069, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: info@ambushpublishing.com AMBUSHonLINE, P.O. Box 2587, LaPlace, LA 70069, 522.8049, AmbushOnline.COM; email: info@ambushpublishing. com

organizations

FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 504.821.2601 ext. 254 FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), 504.319.8261, www.fridaynightbeforemardigras.com GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828A 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; HalloweenNewOrleans.COM 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 LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, 1308 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.475.7911, www.lgbtarchivesla.org MYSTIC KREWE OF LORDS OF LEATHER, 1000 Bourbon St #B415, New Orleans, LA 70116, www.lordsofleather.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 NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 504.821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM NEW ORLEANS PRIDE, info@neworleanspridefestival.com; 504.321.6006; NewOrleansPrideFestival.COM; NOLAPride. ORG; New Orleans Pride fully embraces the message of “One CommUNITY” as we celebrate our history and promote the future prosperity of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast Region. We use public awareness and education about the LGBT+ community as a way to combat “phobias” and discrimination. Our programs, seminars and events leading up to, and during Pride weekend, are meant to include individuals from all walks of life. 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 504.947.2121, stannanola.org

Cafe Sbisa, 1011 Decatur St., 522.5565, www.cafesbisanola.com Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., 265.0045, www.TheCheezyCajun.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, www.CloverGrill.com. Since 1939, our quirky, cozy, unique diner has been home to the best breakfasts & burgers on Bourbon Street–maybe even the whole French Quarter! Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans. com, 945.0742 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 Chartres St. 598.5005, www.KinfishNewOrleans.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] Engel & Völkers New Orleans, Michael Styles, Realtor — Michael specializes in helping first-time homebuyers and real estate investors find the perfect New Orleans

properties. 504.777.1773, NolaStyles.com Latter & Blum, Steven Richards Realtor, 504.258.1800, SteveRichardsProperties.com New Orleans Relocation, Realtors — gay-owned 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 MARY’S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 XXXSHOP, 1835 N. Rampart St., 504.232.3063

services

New Orleans, LA [504] Formal Connection, 299 Belle Terre Blvd. LaPlace, LA, 985.652.1195

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

pharmacy

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

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

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www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 29

New Orleans Party Down by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com

From parties and parades to plays and plants, my two weeks were filled with excitement culminating with Pride weekend which was once again awesome. I love the way Pride has grown over the years and I feel we are especially lucky in this city that we have so many LGBT celebrations such as Pride, Southern Decadence, Easter, Mardi Gras and Halloween. We know how to represent in our community. My week started by attending a little networking reception at Balise restaurant located in the CBD. Balise is owned by chef extraordinaire Justin Devillier who worked in the kitchens of Bacco, Stella and Peristyle before becoming Executive Chef at La Petite Grocery. A short three years later, Devillier and his wife Mia took over majority ownership in 2010. In 2016, Justin won the James Beard Award for Best Chef: South after being named a finalist in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. In early 2015, the Devilliers opened Balise, named after one of the first French settlements at the mouth of the Mississippi River. Set in a 19th century Cre-

ole townhouse in the Central Business District, Balise celebrates New Orleans as a port city and its unique access to a wide variety of ingredients. The food and the craft cocktails as very inspired. If you have not tried this place yet, then I would put it on my list. The following day, I attended another networking function at a unique new venue located on Metairie Road called Loft 18. The event was New Orleans Magazine’s May Hobknobber. Loft 18 is for the golf lover or for those who are interested in learning about their game in a no-stress environment. Loft18 is the premier indoor golf and entertainment center – a deluxe recreation and relaxation complex designed for year-round, all-weather, day-or-night play. Their five custom-built, state-of-the-art Full Swing Golf simulator stalls feature 95 championship courses and deliver precision play at its finest to golfers of all experience levels. They have a full-service bar and restaurant offering gastro-pub fare, craft beer and cocktails. I am not a golfer but this place is pretty cool and

I actually did well for my first time with a club in my hand. Well, not so sure about doing well as much as I just did not suck really bad. Afterwards, I met some friends for dinner at Ron’s Gumbo Shop to celebrate Countess C. Alice’s (aka Daryl Dunaway) birthday. The soiree was held in their private room off the dining room as friends and family gathered to cheer the guest of honor who is a premier drag performer, costumer, show director and bartender. Talk about jack-of-all-trades. The delicious food just added to the jovial spirits of the night. Happy birthday Daryl - wishing you many more. The weekend prior to Pride was all about theater and plants. Weird combination. On Friday I went to a wine tasting and exotic plant sale at Second Vine Wine located at 1027 Touro Street in the Marigny Triangle. This quirky wine shop and bar is very colorful. That night, there was a book signing, plant sale and wine tasting all at the same time; talk about busy people. Over the weekend, I also saw two plays, the first was Sueno presented by Cripple Creek Theatre at the First Unitarian Universalist Church on Jefferson Avenue. Sueno is Puerto Rican playwright Jose Rivera’s adaptation of Life is a Dream by Calderon de la Barca, written in 1638, who was a successor of Shakespeare in the Spanish Baroque era. The show was wonderful--funny, exciting and poignant all rolled up in one. Emilie Whelan directed a talented cast (Devyn Tyler, Cameron-Mitchell Ware, Rahim Glaspy, Pamela D. Roberts, Ian Hoch, Jessica Lozano and Andy Vaught). There was action, romance and intrigue, a perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon. The other play I saw was The Maids at The Fortress of Lushington in the Marigny Rectangle. In Good Company Theatre presented Jean Genet’s classic one-act directed by Jeffrey Gunshol and featuring Jenny Sargent, Rebecca Greaves and Rebecca Frank. The play was good, but watching it was like sitting in a sauna with all your clothes on, so dress appropriately. Pride week was non-stop starting on Wednesday, I attended the LGBT+ Archives Membership Meeting at The Marigny Opera House. It is only a $10 annual contribution to become a member of this worthwhile organization.The keynote speaker was Robert Fieseler, author of Tinderbox: The Untold Story of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire and the Rise of Gay Liberation. Next, I went to NOAGE’s movie night at the Chalmette Movies. They showed King Cobra which is a campy (my opinion) 2016 American biographical crime-drama film about the life and early career of Brent Corrigan. It was

directed by Justin Kelly and was based on the book Cobra Killer: Gay Porn, Murder, and the Manhunt to Bring the Killers to Justice by Andrew E. Stoner and Peter A. Conway. The film centers on the 2007 murder of gay porn producer Bryan Kocis (named “Stephen” in the film and played by Christian Slater) by two aspiring producers (James Franco and Keegan Allen) who wanted to buy out Corrigan’s performing contract. Stephen, a closeted gay mogul who runs a website called Cobra Video from his normal suburban house, turns ‘Brent’, a wannabe adult performer, into a popular client. However, his rival producer Joe and his unstable lover Harlow become jealous and vow to stop Brent by murdering Stephen. For what the movie lacked in acting, it made up in sexy scenes with Franco and Allen (my Pretty Little Liars heartthrob). NOAGE hosts these movie nights a few times a year and it’s a great way to meet people in a different social setting. And it comes with a free popcorn, who could ask for more? My last stop of the night was an exclusive industry Ketel One event unveiling their new Ketel One Botanical. 11th generation owner Carl Nolet Jr. was on hand at this event that had five local bartenders competing for the best cocktail using the new liquor. Ketel One Botanical is vodka distilled with real botanicals and infused with natural fruit essences. The three new flavors are Peach and Orange Blossom; Cucumber and Mint; and Grapefruit and Rose. I have my new go to cocktails. Thursday night was Dining Out For Life. My friends and I chose Restaurant des Families in Crown Point (by the bayou, cher). The restaurant’s Acadian-style architecture made for a refreshing change of scenery from the restaurants in the city. It was also surprisingly crowded with two large table of supporters, one from the Krewe of Armeinius and the other was Rodney Thoulion & partner RJ Buras and their families. There was at least another five tables including ours of other diners out to support the cause. I try to do a different restaurant every year to spread the love. Down on the bayou was a fun way to celebrate this time. Pride Saturday was one of those days when you love to live in New Orleans. This city may have its faults-potholes, crooked politicians, an aged sewerage system--but on days like Saturday, all I felt was love, for the city and for my community. I started my day off early getting out to the Creole Tomato Festival. I was one of the celebrity judges for their Bloody Mary contest. Not a bad gig drinking nine different kinds of Bloody Marys first thing in the morning. So I knew it was

30 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

going to be a day-drinking sort of day. Though all the different variations on this eye opening cocktail were delectable, we chose our top four winners. Cafe Dauphine won Most Original; Superior Grill won best garnish; Bar Tonique won best mix; and Stingrays won best overall! They had a soft-shell crab in their Bloody Mary for goodness sake! I bought a few Creole tomatoes before heading out then went to the Pride Festival Block party by the

Phoenix and in the Robért’s parking lot. There was a nice crowd with lots of fun things to do; the Big Easy Sisters dunking booth was hysterical. Mags 940 had an impromptu drag show starring Countess C Alice. I watched Cajun fiddler extraordinaire Amanda Shaw take the stage before doing a quick costume change at home (thank goodness I live near the Festival site) before heading to the parade start. I rode on the Ambush float and it was

pretty awesome. I loved every minute of it and the crowds were unreal. I saw so many friends in the parade and along the route, it was truly amazing. Congratulations to all those who made Pride such a success this year. On Sunday, I had some out-oftown friends in town for the weekend, so I played tourist with them. We had brunch at Curio on Royal Street before a little shopping at the galleries and a libation at the Carousel Bar at the Ho-

tel Monteleone. I believe I have more fun being a local tourist in this city than the out-of-towners do. Afterwards, I had a nightcap at CafeCafe Lafitte in Exile and enjoyed a little of their Trash Disco evening. There is not a better way to end my weekend than dancing to Love Is In The Air at Lafitte’s napkin toss on Sunday night!

45th Anniversary of the Upstairs Lounge Fire

Interfaith Memorial Service Sun., June 24th 5 pm St. Mark’s UMC Second Line from Armstrong Park to Site of the Upstairs Lounge immediately follows service

St. Mark’s UMC 1130 N. Rampart St.  (504) 529-8044 www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 31

Trodding the Boards by Brian Sands Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Nunsense at The WWII Museum’s Stage Door Canteen through July 1

When I learned that Nunsense was on the schedule for The WWII Museum’s Stage Door Canteen I had to ask myself “What does a group of nuns in New Jersey holding a benefit to raise money to bury some of their fellow Sisters after a freak accident have to do with World War II?” Other than a brief reference in the second act to the Andrews Sisters, I never did find out. But that didn’t keep me from enjoying this show which I once took telephone ticket orders for during its original run in New York. As anyone reading this column who hasn’t been on a desert island for the past thirty years should know, Nunsense shows how five of the 19 surviving Little Sisters of Hoboken attempt to raise money to lay to rest four Sisters who are still in the freezer after Sister Julia, Child of God, accidentally killed most of the residents of the convent

with her tainted vichyssoise. Silly? Yup. But it ran for 3,672 performances Off-Broadway, spawned six sequels and three spin-offs. So while it may have nothing to do with WWII, this musical with a book and score by Dan Goggin sure is popular or, as its opening number tells us “Nunsense is habit-forming.” A packed house on a recent Sunday matinee certainly attested to its ongoing appeal. Some of the show’s humor was probably dated when it first debuted (The convent’s archery instructor? Sister Myopia.), other bits have become dated (an “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” allusion) and some of it now borders on the tasteless (jokes about lepers’ body parts falling off). A good deal of it, however, remains funny in a very broad way (The dinner where that botulism-infused vichyssoise was served gets jokingly called “The Last Supper.) Shakespeare it ain’t. Or even Fiddler on the Roof. But considering it started out as a line of greeting cards, Nunsense impresses with just how well put-together it is. Goggin wisely keeps it simple with five well-defined characters: The bossy

Christian Tarzetti, Skylend Roussell, Merdith Long, April Louise, Stephanie Boyd in Nunsense

Mother Superior (Meredith Long). Her second-in-command, Sister Mary Hubert (April Louise) who aspires to the top position. Sister Robert Anne (Stephanie Boyd), a streetwise nun from Brooklyn. Sister Mary Leo (Skylend Roussell), a novice who is determined to be the world’s first ballerina nun. And Sister Mary Amnesia (Christian Tarzetti), who lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head and is desperately trying to remember who she is. The miracle of Nunsense is that, despite its campy humor and subversive spirit, the Catholic Church never took offense at it unlike some of the other cultural bugaboos of the 1980s and ’90s (for example, Andres Serrano’s Piss Christ or Chris Ofili’s The Holy Virgin Mary, works that probably would’ve quickly faded from memory had not an uproar been made over them). Of course, it was said that Nunsense delivered its mockery lovingly, but one could argue about that. The Nunsense that I saw at the Stage Door Canteen started off a little shakily. Some accents were overdone, one performer’s microphone didn’t work, another’s made her sound like she was performing for an arena. But eventually sound levels were adjusted, accents were softened, and the script itself, once it moved past the order’s history in a leper colony, gets into a more comfortable groove. Victoria Reed directs with assurance, squeezing this nonsense for all the amens it’s worth yet insuring that it never goes completely overboard. As the Museum’s Entertainment Director, having helmed many shows there, she knows the Canteen’s auditorium intimately and nicely uses its entire space. The choreography, credited to Reed (musical staging), Heidi Malnar (tap) and Kenneth Beck (ballet), while remaining thoroughly professional, comes off as simple and unfussy enough to be believable for this “benefit” performance. That Long has a bodacious set of pipes came as no surprise as she made

the Mother Superior, a former tightrope walker (don’t ask!), a delightfully tough, red hot mama. What I wasn’t expecting was how adept a physical comedienne she is. After inhaling nearly a bottleful of Rush, not knowing what it is, Long caused the Mother’s literal downfall, between and behind some barstool seats, to be absolutely hysterical. (I suspect no more than half of the mostly older audience had any idea what Rush is used for assuming, like the Mother, that it’s “for people who are in a hurry.”) Louise amply fulfilled the potential she displayed when she won the Stage Door Idol contest a few years ago, not only leading the requisite gospel number, Holier Than Thou, with forceful aplomb, but never overplaying Sister Hubert’s ambitiousness and keeping her as real as the script allows. Roussell demonstrated admirable terpsichorean talents, especially en pointe, shining as she lead The Dying Nun ballet segment. Tchaikovsky would have approved. Despite having perhaps the most ridiculous character, Tarzetti grounds Sister Amnesia in a touching and truthful reality. Her operatic voice wowed me, particularly in a snippet from the Queen of the Night’s aria, and her interaction with audience members surely endeared her to them. She also, holy saints preserve us, even gets to do a Hand to God-like ventriloquist routine transforming Goggin’s let’s-throw-inthe-kitchen-sink water into artful wine. The show’s zany denouement (hint: it involves Ed McMahon) is perfectly in keeping with the rest of its spirit, and will send you home from church, er, I mean, the Canteen, with a smile on your face. If Nunsense ultimately proved most agreeable, I do hope the WWII Museum will be able to present more relevant, even trenchant shows in the future. Finding some new and worthy, while commercially appealing, material for the Stage Door Canteen--now that would be a miracle indeed! At this point I usually say “Hallelu-

32 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

jah!” for the accompanying meal from the WWII Museum’s restaurant, The American Sector. Yet, other than the melt-in-your-mouth biscuits, something seemed off this time. While the vichyssoise tasted fine, it had an odd, pasty consistency instead of the smooth creaminess I’m used to. The Blackened Gulf Fish served over squash and country hash was fine but unexceptional. In a nod to Nunsense, the dessert was “Mary Magdeline Tarts, convent cherry tarts with sacrificial goat cheese and vain vanilla bean ice cream.” While refreshing and different, I could’ve done without the goat cheese in the ice cream which gave it an odd taste. The servers were as friendly and accommodating as always, yet they seemed a tad overburdened; were there not as many of them as usual or did the crowd turn out to be larger than expected? Why did the place settings have two soup spoons and no knives? And did no one proof the menu? Seeing that one of the ingredients in the soup was “Pureed Leaks” proved nearly as fatal to me as Sister Julia Child of God’s vichyssoise did to those nuns!

Waitress at Saenger Theatre

the

I have fond memories of Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 wise and bittersweet film Waitress about Jenna, a small town woman with a no-good husband and a penchant for baking pies. I knew of Sara Bareilles only by name until the recent Tony Awards which she co-hosted; she impressed me with her down-to-earth, self-effacing good humor. I hoped that the musical version of Waitress, for which Bareilles did the score, would prove as winning as the movie. Alas not. It’s a nice piece of theater but nothing memorable. Bareilles’ songs are pleasant enough but seem culled from a Lite FM playlist of minor hits. Until the very end, when the owner of the diner where Jenna works, gives her heartfelt advice (Take It From an Old Man), and Jenna’s follow-up song of probing self-examination (She Used to Be Mine), none of the tunes offer melodies that represent the characters’ inner lives (as David Yazbek’s do in the marvelous, Tony-winning The Band’s Visit). Bareilles’ lyrics often seemed too generic, but I can’t give a full assessment of them as they were frequently difficult to hear. Whether this was because of a faulty sound system, the band’s playing too loud, mushy diction or some combination of all three, I’m not sure but my companion felt the same way. Jessie Nelson’s book remains true to the movie but somehow takes most of the charm out and substitutes

silliness. Romantic quirkiness has been replaced by broadly played, if crowd-pleasing, goofiness. The film’s moments of magical realism, in which Jenna conjures up fanciful names and ingredients for her pies, seem halfbaked here. Ironically, when Nelson sticks to the dramatic scenes, Waitress comes off best. Jenna’s husband Earl is a bully, a victim, perhaps, of a toxic macho culture, but he provides the show’s spark of narrative tension. Credit Nick Bailey for keeping him mean and scary as well as not being afraid to come off as a complete asshole. Without that edge, Waitress might’ve sent a diabetic into saccharine shock. Which is not to say that Waitress is all fluff. This is a rare musical that takes seriously the concerns of blueand pink-collar workers. Its people are authentic, facing real challenges of love and money, not cartoon characters come to 3D life. Shelly’s main ingredient of fairy tale realism endures in Waitress’ recipe, even if it’s not quite as adroitly mixed in as in the film. Director Diane Paulus creates appealing stage images, as moments of blithe imagination intermingle with reality, but she and choreographer Lorin Latarro couldn’t seem to decide how stylized they wanted the show to be. The use of chorus members in Jenna’s thoughts could have been better sprinkled throughout, rather than just dropped in occasionally. Ken Billington’s lighting, featuring pink and purple dusky clouds, adds a sublime touch. Desi Oakley makes a winsome Jenna with a powerful voice. You root for her and hope she finds the happiness she deserves. Charity Angél Dawson and Lenne Klingaman, as Jenna’s friends and co-workers, serve up sass and eccentricity, respectively; Alice’s Flo and Vera come to mind. With her feel for over-looked, marginalized people, I hope Bareilles returns to the stage. Perhaps a musical version of Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer Prize-winner Sweat? Till then, the Saenger’s 201819 season looks like a fabulous one: Aladdin (Sept. 26-Oct. 7), School of Rock (Oct. 30-Nov. 4), On Your Feet! (Nov. 27-Dec. 2), Elf (Dec. 18-23), Come From Away (May 28-June 2), and the one you’ve all been waiting for, Hamilton (Mar. 12-31). Can’t wait for the curtains to go up!

Please send press releases and notices of your upcoming shows to Brian Sands at bsnola2@hotmail.com.

A scene from the Up Stairs Lounge; courtesy of Johnny Townsend

Reclaiming the Fire: The Tragedy and Legacy of the Up Stairs Lounge, 45 Years Later Wednesday, June 27, 2018 6–7:30 p.m. The Historic New Orleans Collection’s Williams Research Center 410 Chartres Street, French Quarter A panel of historians and witnesses, including Royd Anderson, Clayton Delery, Clancy DuBos, Robert W. Fieseler, and Frank Perez, will discuss how the event shaped the LGBT+ community locally and nationally. Admission is free, and reservations are required. Visit www.hnoc.org or call (504) 598-7146 for details.

presented by

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 33

State of the Epidemic - An HIV Retrospective by Noel Twilbeck, CEO of CrescentCare

Every generation, progress happens. Sometimes, though it seems miraculous, a discovery makes that progress leap forward. I’m lucky in my lifetime to have seen some of those leaps of progress take place. I consider myself even luckier because they’ve led me to believe that they’re happening more often. I like to think we can attribute these leaps to the goodness of people and the brilliance of our collective human community. A few years ago, the cure for Hepatitis C was discovered. “Cure” is not a word we are used to introducing in healthcare. Too often, the cures and treatments we have are the ones that our generation has to work with. We’ve been grappling with the common cold for centuries, after all. However, in the case of Hepatitis C, the collective brilliance, hard work, and determination on behalf of scientists, doctors, advocates, drug companies, communities, patients, researchers, governments, and so many other unsung heroes culminated in a massive victory in the form of a bottle of tiny tablets. The Hepatitis C solution was a

landmark like the polio vaccine or the introduction of penicillin in the last century. I must stop and reflect on the number of lives saved and improved by this advance. Naturally, I’m just as enthusiastic about the amazing advances in HIV treatment and prevention. I’ve been working in that arena for decades, as a part of our local organization which began as the NO/AIDS Task Force in response to the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s. Alongside what started as a band of like-minded caregivers and what transformed over the years into a healthcare family of magnificent diversity and talent, I come to work every day, stare the epidemic in the face and say, “your days are numbered”. Louisiana and New Orleans, particularly, are still wrestling with disproportionately high rates of HIV. We’ve had a lot of work to do, and so we kept our heads down and focused on our clients. While our eyes were on our various tasks, progress was happening elsewhere. Leaps were being made while we tended to our community. Sometimes they were big leaps. Before we knew it, we

Snap Paparazzi: The Corner Pocket Photos by Jeremy

found ourselves on a whole new playing field. HIV tests went from taking a week or more to return a diagnosis to sixty seconds. The diagnosis gradually stopped being synonymous with a death sentence, and special therapies widely accessed starting in the mid90s restored our hopes that this plague could be conquered—like all plagues, one day it, too, could be history. More medications became available, and bottle by bottle, visit by visit, we started to get a handle on the virus. The latest leaps forward have come in the form of PrEP, a daily pill that’s more than 90% effective in preventing new infections in people without HIV; and the confirmation of what we now know and have long suspected: that people living with HIV who are on medical treatment that have suppressed their virus to an undetectable level are unable to transmit the virus, and have similar health outcomes to people without the virus. In other words, these people have the chance at long, healthy lives and happy, fulfilling love lives. This was all a dream thirty years ago, and today it’s reality. The fear

and stigma are gradually being dispersed. I recently came across a new television ad in which the spokesperson said, “Honestly, our health is worth protecting”, and I was stunned. It was a commercial regarding HIV care, and I thought, “Honestly, we never thought we’d see the day”. The day, of course, being today when we are talking honestly and openly about something once considered to be so unspeakably scary. I sat with that message for a while and felt grateful for all the advances, progress, and hard work that’s been put in to get us to this day (visit https://www. healthysexuals.com/ to view video). Tipping points don’t appear every day, but I’m encouraged to believe that the best is yet to come. A cure, a vaccine, whatever advance is next, we are continuing to do the work and pinning our hopes on the genius and innovation of our friends and neighbors as well as the legacies of so many individuals that we have lost to this horrific epidemic. HIV’s days are numbered, but we can’t do it without you.

Commentary: Prison Labor is Slave Labor by Frank Perez Prison Labor is Slave Labor

The Louisiana Legislature is on the verge of expanding its slave labor program. After the House of Representatives voted 97-7 to allow state prisoners to work on construction projects and do repair and renovation work at the Department of Corrections’ administrative buildings as well as the state Capitol complex, a Senate Committee has voted to send the measure to the full Senate for a vote. If the bill passes, inmates would be paid as little as 4 cents an hour for their labor. “I don’t have a nice way of saying this other than it reminds me of slavery,” said Sen. Karen Carter Peterson (D-New Orleans) before voting against the legislation in committee. Indeed, it does. For decades, state inmates have done custodial work on state grounds and at state facilities such as the state Capitol, Governor’s mansion and several office buildings in Baton Rouge. Louisiana currently has the highest incarceration rate in the nation. According to the Washington Times and the Justice Reinvestment Task Force: • Louisiana has the highest per capita incarceration rate in the United

States, with 816 people in prison for every 100,000 residents. That’s nearly double the national average. • Nearly 35,700 people are incarcerated today. The number of prisoners has grown 30 times faster than the state’s population since the late 1970s. • One in three people return to prison in Louisiana within three years of release. • Louisiana sends people to prison for drug, property and other nonviolent crimes at twice the rate of South Carolina and three times the rate of Florida. • Among those sentenced to prison in Louisiana, the top 10 crimes are nonviolent. Five of the top 10 are drug offenses. The most common is drug possession. • 81 percent of admissions to prison in Louisiana in 2015 were for nonviolent crimes. • Louisiana’s parole board heard 45 percent fewer cases in 2015 than it did 10 years earlier. • Louisiana is spending $625 million this year for adult corrections, the state’s third-largest spending area. House Bill 84 is being sponsored by Rep. Kenny Havard, R-St. Francisville.

34 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Planning for Retirement When You Don’t Have Kids by Scot I. Billeaudeau, JD, LL.M. ADPA® Email: S.Billeaudeau@ampf.com

Couples who don’t have children tend to have more financial flexibility to pursue their own goals throughout life and in retirement. But this flexibility doesn’t mean they don’t need to manage their future financial, health and legacy needs. If you are child-free and preparing for retirement, here are five steps to get you started: Prioritize saving for retirement Since you’re not facing the costs for childcare and educational institutions, consider doubling-down on saving for retirement. You have the potential to spend decades in retirement pursuing your hobbies and goals. Calculate what it will take for you to live the lifestyle you want and compare it to your current savings. Create a plan to save the difference. Consider contributing as much as you can to your workplace savings plan, if you have one, and con-

sider building up Roth IRA savings to help create a source of income that is potentially tax-free in retirement. Recognize your long-term care challenges Long-term care can be a challenge for anyone as they age, and there’s added complexity in situations where you may not be able to rely on family members to step in. Regardless of your situation, make it a priority to decide how you will manage healthcare costs in retirement. Medical expenses continue to rise, so it’s important to have adequate savings and insurance coverage. Explore your options through Medicare and your current or former employer and consider if longterm care insurance would benefit you. Additionally, consider researching caregiving options and long-term care facilities in your area so that you are fa-

Coca Mesa Brings Drag to Boomtown Casino Local Drag Queen and SDGM XLIII Coca Mesa is bringing drag deep into the heart of the West Bank. Boomtown Casino is currently featuring “Coca Mesa’s Drag Brunch” every Sunday at Boomers. The show features Coca Mesa and other area drag performers as

well as an all-you-can-eat buffet and bottomless Mimosas. The show runs every Sunday at 10:00am and 1:00pm through July 1. Individual tickets are $35, a table of 4 is $125, and a table of 10 is $300. Tickets are available at Ticketweb.com

miliar with the choices if you need them down the road.

tion arise where you need help making financial decisions.

Prepare for medical care Before you experience a significant medical event – which can happen at any time – make sure to have an advanced directive, also known as a living will, in place. This document lets your spouse, extended family and friends know your preferences for treatment and gives you the opportunity to designate a healthcare power of attorney. This person will be empowered to make decisions on your behalf if necessary.

Plan your legacy With no direct heirs in line to inherit your estate, you will want to consider what you’d like your legacy to be – including how your assets should be distributed upon your death. You may choose to leave your estate to any combination of family members, friends, charities, education institutions, or other causes that are important to you. Creating or updating your will is one of the best ways to articulate your wishes. Also consider using trusts, which sometimes allow more flexibility than a will, to help you meet specific legacy goals. Consult with a financial advisor, attorney and tax legal professional to develop a comprehensive legacy strategy that suits your ultimate goals.

Have financial decision-makers in place It’s also important to designate a spouse, friend, extended family member or professional to look out for your financial interests if you become incapacitated. Draw up documents to name a durable power of attorney to oversee your financial matters if you are unable to, including legal and tax concerns. Keep in mind that choosing someone to help watch out for you does not mean you have to share your full financial situation and account numbers. Rather, a common approach is to share enough information so that the contact can step in, should a situa-

Scot I. Billeaudeau, JD, LL.M. ADPA®, is a Financial Advisor with Waterfront Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. He specializes in addressing the unique needs of the diverse LGBTQ community, fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies, and has been in practice for 11 years.

LGBT+ Archives Project Holds Annual Meeting The LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana held its annual membership meeting on June 6 at the Marigny Opera House. President Frank Perez opened the meeting by greeting the roughly seventy-five people in attendance with a Welcome Address that recounted the successes of the Archives Project over the last year. Various Board Members then gave reports of ongoing initiatives and upcoming events, including a series of events later this month to mark the 45th Anniversary of the Up Stairs Lounge fire. It was also announced that the 2018 Oracle Gala, the Project’s flagship annual fundraiser, will be held on August 12 at the Ace Hotel and will honor the founders of Southern Decadence, who have donated a treasure trove of early Southern Decadence materials to the Louisiana Research Collection at Tulane University. The keynote speaker of the eve-

ning was author Robert Fieseler, who spoke about his new book, Tinderbox: The Untold Story of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire and the Rise of Gay Liberation (Liveright, 2018). Tinderbox is the third book to be written about the fire and positions the narrative of the tragic arson within a national context. In addition to Fieseler’s address, the Archives Project held Officer and Board of Directors elections, the results of which were as follows: Frank Perez—President, Tiffany Charles— Vice President, Jim Meadows—Secretary, Jessica Troske—Treasurer, and Candy Ellison, Aimee Everett, Leah Foster, Mark Gonzalez, Kimberly Johnson, Wayne Phillips, Robert Ticknor, Althea Topek, Brooke Volkert—Board Members. For more information on the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, visit https://www.lgbtarchiveslouisiana. org/

ENGEL&VÖLKERS MICHAEL STYLES

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 35

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio Photos by Tony Leggio

At the NOAGE Move Night at Challenge Movies

Book Review: Conversations with Edmund White by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

Conversations with Edmund White. Will Brantley and Nancy McGuire Roche, Editors. 2018. University Press of Mississippi. 208 pages. $25.00 I met Edmund White in the Hotel Monteleone five or six years ago. We were both attending the annual Saints and Sinners Literary Festival, and White was on a panel about writing memoirs. I was familiar with his work, having read several of his books, and I was pleased to discover he was as charming and engaging in person as he was on the page. I was, therefore, excited to read Conversations with Edmund White. The book did not disappoint me. This collection of 21 interviews with Edmund White spanning nearly 35 years is essential reading for anyone who wants to better understand a towering figure in the landscape of gay letters. Since the 1973 publication of his first novel, Forgetting Elena, White has become a major figure in literature and gay culture. White is, however, more than just a celebrated gay writer. He is an international man of letters, and his work crosses several genres. White’s fiction includes an autobiographical trilogy—A Boy’s Own Story, The Beautiful Room Is Empty, and The Farewell Symphony—along with more recent novels such as Jack Holmes and His Friend and Our Young Man. White’s love of French literature and culture is

evident in biographies of Jean Genet, Marcel Proust, and Arthur Rimbaud, and his antipathy to American Puritanism suffuses his collected essays and memoirs. It’s on full display in two early nonfiction works that helped define the era of gay liberation: The Joy of Gay Sex, co-authored with Charles Silverstein, and States of Desire: Travels in Gay America. A professor of creative writing at Princeton University, White has earned many distinctions, including the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Lambda Literary Foundation’s Pioneer Award. White has been a generous interviewer, sharing his time and insights not only with major publications such as the Paris Review, but also with smaller online publications for more limited audiences. A lively commentator, White has never been afraid to speak his mind, even when the result has been public feuds with literary peers on both sides of the Atlantic. Will Brantley is a professor of English at Middle Tennessee State University. He is author of Feminine Sense in Southern Memoir and editor of Conversations with Pauline Kael, both published by University Press of Mississippi. Nancy McGuire Roche is a lecturer at Vanderbilt University. She is author of Cinema in Revolt: Censorship Reform in 1960s British and American Film.

Commemoration Ceremonies Planned for the 45th Anniversary of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire A series of commemorative events are planned in June to mark the 45th anniversary of the Up Stairs Lounge arson. Sunday, June 24. An ecumenical service will be held at St. Mark’s Methodist Church (1130 N. Rampart) at 5:00pm followed by a Second Line parade to the site of the fire where a solemn reading of the names of the victims will be held. Wednesday, June 27. The LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana and The Historic New Orleans Collection will host a panel discussion of historians and witnesses to the event discussing how it shaped the LGBT+ community locally and nationally. This event will take place at 6:00pm at the Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres Street. Participants in the June 27 panel include Royd Anderson, director of the documentary The UpStairs Lounge Fire (2013); Clayton Delery,

award-winning author of The Up Stairs Lounge Arson: Thirty-Two Deaths in a New Orleans Gay Bar, June 24, 1973 (McFarland, 2014); Clancy DuBos, the journalist whose story “Blood, Moans: Charity Scene” ran on the front page of the Times-Picayune the morning after the fire; Robert W. Fieseler, author of Tinderbox: The Untold Story of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire and the Rise of Gay Liberation ( Liveright, forthcoming). The panel discussion will be moderated by Frank Perez, president of the LGBT+ Archives Project and co-author of the forthcoming book Southern Decadence in New Orleans (LSU Press). The event will also feature a reading and book signing for Fieseler’s new book. This free public program is presented in collaboration with the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana. More information is available at www.hnoc.org and by calling (504) 523-4662.

36 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Leading with Pride by Pastor Allie Rowland, Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans (MCCNO) Email: alisan.rowland42@gmail.com Website: www.mccneworleans.com

This year I spent some time thinking about why I participate in Pride every year. Perhaps it was in part because I was just getting over a summer cold and I felt stressed and needed to re-motivate myself. Or, it could be that I’ve done it for so many years now that I didn’t want Pride to feel routine. So this year before I rode in the Pride parade, I recalled the gay activists who marched and who spoke out so that we can celebrate openly now. I thought about the drag queens of Stonewall, and the AIDS activists of ACT UP. I thought about the gay men and the lesbians who were raided at gay bars and taken to jail. I thought about LGBT people all over the world who wish they had the freedom to come together and march through the streets of their cities. And I thought about what I love about this community; our incredible transgender community and all they have taught those of us who are cisgender about gender stereotypes and living authen-

tically; the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence whose community service and fundraising have helped thousands of people; those in the bisexual community who remind us that love is about more than gender; and the many gay men, drag queens, and lesbians I know who are always willing to help someone in trouble. I thought about the United States Supreme Court ruling in favor of same sex marriage, and how so many people never thought they would see that happen in their lifetime. Many of us wouldn’t be able to legally marry today if it hadn’t been for the activists who came before us. So even when life gets too stressful, or when we want a year off from Pride, we need to remember how important showing up and being present is. To those in this country who see us as less than they, Pride says “hey, we have the right to be here, to love who we love, and to be ourselves.” And to queer folk and

gender fluid people in countries that are oppressive towards LGBT people, Pride says “don’t give up. You’re not alone. It can get better.” But, even if you were not able to participate in NOLA Pride events, I want to express my gratitude for any way you support our community, whether you support a community organization or mentor others, because anything you have done or do now for this community is significant. The truth is that for some, we are still a convenient target. Today, as I write these words, on the anniversary of the Pulse shooting in Orlando, my heart grieves for every LBGTQ person whose life has been taken from us. My heart grieves for the 32 people of Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans who died 45 years ago in the UpStairs Lounge fire. My heart grieves for Amia Tyrae Berryman, for Chyna Gibson, for Ciara McElveen, for Matthew Shepard, and for ALL those who have lost their lives to transphobia and homophobia…people who are so much more than a list of names. So whether you identify as a part

of the LGBT community or you are an ally, your leadership, your willingness to speak out and act in support of this community, is vital to us. Sometimes it is a matter of life or death. We need your leadership to continue our struggle for equal rights. Even if you’ve never thought of yourself as a leader, the way you support this community sets an example for others. The way you speak out for LGBT people and this community makes a difference. Every act of resistance, every act of love, is transformative for us. For the people you love, for this community, for this country, for this world…lead with Pride. Lead so that future people can fully have the freedom to be themselves and to love who they love without violence, or hatred, or judgment. Lead because you are valuable and brilliant and you have something to offer the world that no one else has. Lead because you love yourself, and you love others. Lead so that all rainbow people will see themselves as the fabulous, inspiring, and unique people they are. Lead with love and lead with pride!

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio Photos by Tony Leggio

At Dining Out for Life at Restaurants des Families

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · June 19 - July 2, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 37

A Community within Communities: The Present Time by The Very Rev. Bill Terry+ Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org

Living in the present time is important for all of us. Languishing in the past is not where we should live. The past is our history and brought us to the here and now. But give today your voice. This month is filled with the history of the past and giving voice to the present. As I am sure Frank Perez and others will attest, this month we will recall “The Upstairs Lounge Fire” and the unholy response of holy folk, city officials, and a community that could not show love even to the dead. That is the past and our voices have grown strong since that day. We rang a toll of the bell just moments ago at noon on June 12th in memory of the 49 victims of the “Pulse” mass murders. Remembering those names Gary VanVonderan rang the bell, giving voice today for our history. Just last weekend Gay Pride rolled down the streets and, in a post, our Vestry person “FatsyCline” said: This weekend blessed my heart so much... I feel refreshed and renewed and gayer than ever! Pride was and al-

ways will be magical. From being able to represent my diocese by marching in the parade to the late night shenanigans with new found friends, I can truly say “we’re here and we’re queer!” Fatsy is also our Vestry Person and goes by the name Zak who is also a nurse at UMC. And so, we gave voice today to who we are and what we are. While Stonewall may have kicked this off, years later, we march with integrity and with dignity. Our voice is clear and speaks today. While our pews were sparsely attended this past Sunday (I suspect that Pride took its toll on our members), we still spoke of the sadness to need a Pride parade. While “Fatsy” was not in church (I had to get this in because we all know guilt is the tool of the church), we spoke of her voice today. The fact that we need to march is sadness enough. The Gospel Sunday spoke, in part, about Jesus’ Momma an ‘em coming to the meeting house to take him home. They thought he had lost it. They thought that we was crazy. Perhaps Momma was scared that her boy

might get hurt because he was on the margins. Jesus operated out of love and was marginalized by his family, and the social dictators of the time. He was “a social heretic.” He was on the margins and he spoke with a voice that is part of history and yet still speaks loudly today. “Who are my mother and brother and sisters?” Jesus asks. Then he looks around the meeting house with all the non-conformists, the shunned, those that are called sinners and, I suspect with a gentle smile said, “These are my mother, brothers, and sisters.” Kinship with love is what he was proclaiming. So the voice of that little social heretic speaks today as it did then. Zak-Fatsy, Gary, Luigi, a gaggle of priests and churchy folk from several denominations all said, “You are my brothers and my sisters” and so in today’s voice we pronounced our kinship to one another. June will turn into July then August then Decadence. Time will run along and we remain aware we can live in the present moment. We remember our history but shouldn’t live in it. If we are astute, unlike some Presidents I know, we will look closely at history and learn its lessons. But learning means using those lessons to craft a better today and tomorrow. I know that the Community can do this. We must be vigilant about our shared rights and privileges, and not allow fear to run amuck. If I say “Black Lives Matter” do you defensively say “All lives matter?” If I say “#MeToo” do you put up a shield and feel some discomfort? We tend to think that any movement is somehow against “us” whoever “us” is. Sometimes it is, but often it is not. I find that especially true when it comes to race: brown or black we become, those of us who are white, particularly sensitive. Guilt it may be or perhaps a sense of being hemmed in or unfairly critiqued. The point of “Black Lives Matter,” as I understand it, is not so much that only Black Lives Matter and others don’t, but

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that it is specific to a phenomena. The phenomena is the very high incidence of shootings by police officers of black persons. By extension, there is also the reality that a black driver is twice as likely to be pulled over than his white counterpart. Google “Boston professor Steve Locke’s encounter with police.” It is chilling and makes the case. Not so many years ago, we learned from our history. The Upstairs Lounge Fire caused an upheaval in the Community. For many men, the outward response of pastors, particularly MCC pastors--who came to give comfort, outrage, and aid--gave rise to fear of being outed. For many men (and I suppose women), being gay got you fired. Being gay got you not hired. Given that history, how can we not, as a community, stand in solidarity with other humans who suffer because of who God made them “Black or Brown, and Beautiful.” These are tense times with so much of the worst of the larger community emerging. Maybe it has always been there buried under the hyperbole of liberal democracy waiting to come out. Maybe not. Maybe it is the current form of dialogue and the way in which we communicate i.e. via e-mail, twitter, and text. There is something lacking in those modes of communication. But at the end of the day, it is up to us to speak in the now and be a voice that says, universally, love rules. It is risky and we might be on the fringes but Jesus sat, rejected by his family, among us, rejected by the power players and religious conservatives and naysayers, and said, “You are my brothers and sisters.” So, turn around, put that cocktail down and buy that person a lemon shot or a soda. Say “Good morning” to the postal worker, thank a city worker for picking up trash. Show that this Community knows how to love and respect.

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