Ambush magazine volume 30 issue 04

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 14-27, 2012 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide • GayMar diGras.COM

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inside

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

official proclamation ambush paparazzi/new orleans celebrazzi/carnival royalty pensacola paparazzi classifieds under the gaydar mobile paparazzi big easy paparazzi/petronius

King Cake Queen Issues Official Proclamation; 25th Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss Feb. 21st

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n Edict 2012, King Cake Queen XIX of Gay Mardi Gras Nicole DuBois issued the holiday's Official Proclamation which states, "Her royal Majesty sends greetings and announces with pleasure her invitation for all to gather from near and far and join in the many celebrations under the Rainbow Banner of Gay Mardi Gras leading up to the 25th Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss February 21, 2012, 2pm, at the Ambush Palace, 828 Bourbon Street." --by "The Samba Queen" (Photo by Larry Graham) The bead toss, hosted by the Krewe of Queenateenas, brings 50 invited revelers to the Ambush balcony to take part in the festivities. It follows the 48th annual Bourbon Street Awards. For more information, visit GayMardiGras.COM.

Oz Presents 48th Annual Bourbon Street Awards Sponsored by Bud Light Feb. 21st

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he 48th annual Bourbon Street Awards, the ultimate costume contest, is set for Mardi Gras Day, February 21 at 12noon. Since 2002, Oz New Orleans has presented the contest which now takes place outside Oz in the 800 block of Bourbon Street down from Ambush Headquarters at 828 Bourbon. Johnny Chisholm and Oz New Orleans with the generous sponsorship of Bud Light, brings us this fantastic contest. Award categories include: Best Drag, Best Leather, Best Group and the grandest award, Best of Show with 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in each category. A $500 cash prize is also awarded to Best Overall Costume.

Celebrity emcees will feature the talents of mega circuit star Bianca Del Rio and Oz’s own Blanche Debris.

The parade of costumes will originate down Bourbon at Dumaine passing both Cafe Lafitte in Exile and Clover Grill, the original site of the awards, heading past Ambush Headquarters towards Oz at 800 Bourbon.

The Bourbon Street Awards, well into its fourth decade, has hosted some of the most exciting and extravagant Mardi Gras costumes ever seen, and a bit of controversy as well.

The 48th Annual Bourbon Street Awards will be “The Best Free Show of Mardi Gras.” For more information, visit GayMardiGras.COM.

Darwin Reed & Rhonda Roget Selected as Easter Grand Marshals XIII by Gay Easter Parade Board

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Mardi Gras Highlights out Feb. 28th DEADLINE: Wed., Feb. 22nd

the "official" dish

he Board of Directors of the Gay Easter Parade is proud to announce that Darwin Reed and Rhonda Roget have been selected to reign as Easter Grand Marshals XIII. Participating in the parade, its fundraisers and events since its inception led to the choice of this year's grand marshals. Both are also heavily involved in many cultural and charitable events in the community. The parade minus expenses benefits Food For Friends, and over the past ten years, donations to charity have exceeded $111,187. The 13th annual Gay Easter Parade is Sunday, April 8th beginning at 4:30pm following its traditional route through the French Quarter.

Board members are Rip and Marsha NaquinDelain, Electra City, Tittie Toulouse, Opal Masters, Rona Conners and Tony Leggio.

Sponsorships are currently available in

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ambush paparazzi/new orleans 42 13th gay easter parade 43 snap paparazzi/kcq coronation 44 trodding the boards 46 service industry page 47 on the prowl/pride nola 48 chop chop/nola restaurant guide 51 snap paparazzi/kcq coronation 52-54

Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com five categories: Presenting ($2,500+), Platinum ($1,000), Gold ($500), Silver ($250), or Bronze ($100). Applications available at GayEasterParade.COM. Scheduled fundraisers include: Saturday, March 3rd, 4-6pm, Cutter’s, 2nd Sponsorship Party under the direction of the GEP Board; Saturday, March 10th, 8-10pm, Oz, 11th Star Studded Drag Extravaganza under the direction of Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain; Friday, March 16th, 8pm, Michael’s On The Park, 4th Eggstravaganza under the direction of Opal Masters; Saturday, March 24th, 8pm, Club LAX, 10th Spring Fever & VIP Reception under the direction of Electra City and Tittie Toulouse; Saturday, March 31st, 8-10pm, Double Play, 13th Purple Party under the direction of the GEP Board; and Friday, April 6th (Time & Place TBA), 3rd Bunnies in The Big Easy under the directions of Tony Leggio and Rona Conners.

FAB Turns 35 in 2012, Hosts In Exile Reading & Signing Feb. 16th

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AB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books celebrates 35 years of service to the Marigny neighborhood, LGBT community, its Deep South patrons and national and international visitors. Founded by Tom Horner and then stewarded by Alan Robinson, the bookstore is still located at 600 Frenchmen Street under the direction of Otis Fennell. This corner location at Chartres Street just eight blocks from Jackson Square is in the heart of the city’s most popular hangout for enjoying the best local and outof-town musicians in the clubs with the added unique mix of street musicians and performers and the close proximity of great restaurants and bars.

FAB exists to promote and encourage the support of LGBT authors and publishers with periodic readings and signings. Local new and established authors from all writing venues are often featured with events to make their work easily available for Marigny residents and visitors.

In this vein, FAB is pleased to host the first signing and reading of In Exile: The History and Lore Surrounding New Orleans Gay Culture and Its

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Oldest Gay Bar with author’s Frank Perez and Jeffrey Palmquist on Thursday, Feb. 16 from 7 to 8pm. [continued on 14]

THE OFFICIAL MAG

Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Louisiana-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide Official Southern Decadence Guide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ in print/780,000+ On-line CIRCULATION: Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi

STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Paul Melancon 504.535.3615 paulmelancon_ambushmag@yahoo.com THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Tony Leggio, Rev. Bill Terry, Rory Wright-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-Pensacola, FL Roy Williams-Pensacola, FL NATIONAL ADVERTISING REP Rivendell Media-212.242.6863 Ambush Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip Naquin-Delain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2012, AMBUSH, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation

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ambush

papar azzi

Chef Byron, mgr. Joe & bartender Richard join Black History Month Meat Night

Bartender Wayne hails from Leather Bar of the Year Phoenix

Lauren Brown @ JohnPaul’s in Diamonds of the South show

Opal Vanderhurst in Diamonds of the South @ JohnPaul’s Dancers Keith & Nate dance in Corner Pocket’s “Be My Partner” Dance Contest

New Empress of the Radical Faeries Ball @ Ironworks Building

Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Rush Party @ JohnPaul’s

Wood Ent. mgr. Michael @ Rawhide's Meat Night @ Rawhide Napoleon’s Itch’s Chuck with Oz’s Frankie & Dusty @ the Itch

Danielle, Dawn & Alyson @ opening of the Hotel Mazarin in the French Quarter

Kenny & Charlie @ Rawhide’s Wednesday Meat Night

Dancers John & David together in Barry Bareass’ “Be My Partner” Dance Contest @ Corner Pocket

The hotness behind the bar at Napoleon’s Itch

Voice of Pride Derrick Stevens on stage @ Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Rush Party

Hanging out at Bourbon Pub Parade

Freddie & Albert in Radical Faeries Ball @ Ironworks Building

Hosts Johnny Passion & Summer Rayne for SEELA/Gay Pride fundraiser @ JohnPaul’s

10 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 14-27, 2012 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide • GayMar diGras.COM

Bartender Eric welcomes you to Phoenix

Crescent City Nightlife ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon

Chef Thor presents Black History Month Meat Night @ Rawhide

Dancers John & Joe dance together in Corner Pocket’s “Be My Partner” Dance Contest

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oldest LGBT bookstore in the South and the second oldest in the nation for the Feb. 16 In Exile reading and signing and stop in the store next time you’re out and about on Frenchmen Street. FAB is open from 1 till 11pm everyday. Email fabotis@yahoo.com or call 504.947.3700 to reserve a signed copy of In Exile.

Gay Mardi Gras Ball/Events Schedule

the "official" dish ...from 8 FAB is proud to honor the publication of this important first treatment of the history and lore of gay New Orleans as the initial event of its 35th year birthday celebration which continues through the end of the year.

In an excerpt from the book, "The upstairs bar at Lafitte's, especially the pool table area, has always been fertile ground for anonymous trysts and spontaneous encounters. Rip NaquinDelain, co-owner and publisher of Ambush magazine, recalls going to Lafitte's in the late 1970s. It was the Friday before Mardi Gras and he was in town to attend a Mardi Gras ball.

Afterwards, he and some friends went to Lafitte's. As they ascended the stairs, Rip remembers being shocked at the

scene. 'Everyone was naked and having sex and here we were in our tuxes. We were lucky to get out with our clothes on!'"

In 2003, FAB expanded its selection of popular New Orleans and regional fiction, nonfiction and coffee table books that have multiplied by leaps and bounds since Katrina. FAB also stocks a growing selection of new and vintage local, national and international music CDs and LPs. Also in 2003, an art gallery was established within the store specializing in local and LGBT artists. Paintings, sketches, sculpture, and photography from more than 100 artists are available for viewing and purchase at attractive prices and favorable terms.

Join FAB’s 35 year celebration and come visit the

Friday, Feb. 17th...~9pm-12midnight, Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Extravaganza XIII, Audubon Tea RoomNew Orleans Saturday, Feb. 18th...~9pm, Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLIV, Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, New Orleans Sunday, Feb. 19th... ~8pm, Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXVIII, Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, New Orleans Lundi Gras, Monday, Feb. 20th ~9pm-2am, Lords of Leather present Night of the Black Mask: The South’s Oldest Leather Block Party, Phoenix/Eagle, Elysian Fields @ N. Rampart, New Orleans MARDI GRAS (Fat Tuesday), Feb. 21st... ~12noon, 48th Annual Bourbon Street Awards, Oz, Corner of St. Ann at 800 Bourbon St. ~2pm - 25th Annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss led by King Cake Queen XIX Nicole DuBois, Ambush Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St.

Mary's Ace Hardware Now Open in French Quarter

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t's been a long time coming, but now French Quarter residents are excited to see the opening of Mary's Ace Hardware Kitchen & Bath at 732 N. Rampart St. in the historic neighborhood.

Featuring Benjamin Moore and Craftsman brands, the new store offers various services including Ace gift cards, Ace rewards, carpet cleaner rental, color paint matching, glass cutting, Kemiko concrete stain, key cutting, kitchen and bath, Modern Masters metallic paint, shutter hardware and small tool rental. Located between Orleans and St. Ann on N. Rampart, store hours are Monday-Wednesday 7am-7pm, ThursdayFriday 7am-8pm, Saturday 8am-6pm, and Sunday 10am-5pm. Credit cards are accepted.

New Orleans Oscar Night® America Party to Benefit American Red Cross

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he 84th Academy Awards® will be in Holly wood. But, the party weekend for Oscar® fans will be in The Big Easy. The excitement and glamour of Hollywood are coming to New Orleans on Oscar Night. Everyone can experience the thrills and surprises of the 84th Academy Awards® on Sunday, February 26, at New Orleans’ own Oscar Night America party.

The New Orleans event is one of 49 parties officially sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that will be held across the country on Oscar Night. Benefiting the American Red Cross Southeast Louisiana Chapter, New Orleans’ Oscar Night celebration will be held at the Theatres at Canal Place, beginning at 6pm. Tickets are now on sale at www.arcno.org or by calling 504.620.3162.

The New Orleans audience will watch the Academy Awards telecast live on large screens courtesy of ABC26 WGNO New Orleans, the New Orleans affiliate of the ABC Television Network, which broadcasts the Academy Awards presentation. This is the 19th year that the Academy and ABC have cooperated with local [continued on 16]

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the "official" dish ...from 14 charities to support official Oscar Night viewing parties throughout the country.

“Oscar night is an event meant to be a shared with others. This network of fundraising parties across the nation is a natural extension of that experi-

ence, and also represents the year-round philanthropic work the Academy does,” said Academy CEO Dawn Hudson. “This February we are thrilled to be able to celebrate the movies with fans nationwide while supporting charities around the country.”

Oscar Night parties last year raised more than $3.5 million in 51 cities. All money raised stays in the local community. The Academy will provide party guests in New Orleans the same official program distributed to guests at the Oscarâ presenta-

tion at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood.

New Orleans guests may feel like stars themselves as they walk down the red carpet through a throng of paparazzi and dine on delicious food crafted by Gusto’s Chef Adolfo Garcia. Patrons will enjoy live entertainment by Becky Allen and Marshall Harris at Morton’s The Steakhouse. ”Oscar Night generates excitement all over the world,” said Kay Wilkins, American Red Cross Southeast Louisiana Chapter CEO. “With the Academy’s help, our guests will feel like they are on the A-list.”

More information on Oscar Night® New Orleans and online tickets are available www.arcno.org.

29th French Quarter Fest to Deliver New Kinds of Fun for Festivalgoers

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ourism officials call French Quarter Festival ‘the kickoff to festival season in New Orleans,’ and what started as a neighborhood festival and a ‘locals event’ has grown into one of the largest music festivals in the United States. The 2011 French Quarter Festival hosted over 500,000 local and out-of-town visitors and had an economic impact of over $245 million. ‘Locals’ Lagniappe Day’ was launched in 2011 and French Quarter Festival officially became a four-day event. In 2012, there is even more festival to enjoy, with extended hours on opening day, Thursday, April 12. And, next year brings the 30th anniversary of this exciting and beloved festival On twenty (of its twenty-one) music stages, only Louisiana artists are featured (the festival hosts one ‘International Stage’ where traditional jazz bands from all over the world perform.) Part of the great appeal of French Quarter Festival is that attendees get a true and authentic New Orleans experience - locals and visitors [continued on 18]

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the "official" dish ...from 16 can hear a broad range of artists and a diverse variety of musical styles and genres. French Quarter Festival is committed to keeping Traditional Jazz alive, and features New Orleans’ finest artists throughout the four days of festival, on stages all over the French Quarter.

A new music stage has been added in 2012, bringing the total to twenty-one.

A Cabaret Stage debuts at this year’s festival and will have its home at the beautifully renovated Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone.The Hotel Monteleone is a sponsor of the festival and its ‘official hotel’.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. recently launched the Musician Sponsorship Program, in which the community was invited to ‘adopt an artist’ at French Quarter Festival. The response has been incredible and corporations, foundations and individuals from all over the United States - from Minneapolis to Maryland - have joined the program and are helping to keep French Quarter Festival FREE for the community, as it remains one of the largest music festivals in the United States. The 2012 French Quarter Festival will feature over 800 local artists. The musician program will continue to seek sponsorships.

The festival has added a full, fourth day - dubbed ‘Locals’ Lagniappe Day.’ The festival opens Thursday, April 12 from 11am until 7pm in Jackson Square (one stage) and Woldenberg Riverfront Park, with four stages. New Orleans’ finest restaurants – otherwise known as ‘The World’s Largest Jazz Brunch’ will be serving classic New Orleans dishes throughout the festival.

In partnership with Applitite, the French Quarter Festival iPhone App is back, along with a new DROID App – and this year it is FREE, courtesy of Capital One Bank. Fans can receive up to the minute announcements, downloadable music schedules, complete menus, special events, merchandise updates, shuttle information and unique offers to enhance their festival experience. The application will be available for download in March, prior to French Quarter Festival.

The Capital One Bank Second Line Shuttle is growing with the French Quarter Festival audience! A sixth bus will be added to help transport local fans to the festival Friday through Sunday. Parking will be offered in the Central Business District along O’Keefe Street for just $10 per day and the shuttle ride is FREE, courtesy of Capital One Bank.

Fireworks are back! 2012 brings the return of the beloved fireworks display on the Mississippi River – last seen at French Quarter Festival in April 2005 (pre-Katrina). This major sponsorship is courtesy of Tropical Isle, a long time participant and friend of French Quarter Festival. The elaborate show will begin at 9pm on Satur-

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9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat.. day, April 14. Local fireworks producer Pyrotecnico will produce the show for French Quarter Festivals, Inc. In 2011, New Orleans food critic, radio host, and author – Tom Fitzmorris – called French Quarter Festival’s World’s Largest Jazz Brunch one of the top three food events in New Orleans (the other two are the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience and FQFI’s Reveillon menus). In recognition of the major food event that the festival has become, local award-winning author Kit Wohl tipped her hat by doing a special edition of her new book New Orleans Classic Brunches especially for French Quarter Festival. In the book, Wohl features Jazz Brunch restaurants - with beloved local recipes, cocktails and lore. The specialedition signed and numbered book will be on sale at French Quarter Festival.

A portion of the sales will benefit the non-profit French Quarter Festivals, Inc. The ever-popular Children’s Headquarters will be expanded for 2012.

Festival-goers can enjoy two completely different family fun experiences on Saturday and Sunday: The newest addition is the beautiful courtyard of the Hermann-Grima House, located at 820 St. Louis Street. Major local museums will offer fascinating and fun handson activities. In addition, young visitors will learn how to churn butter, tend a garden, and more. Built in 1831,

Hermann-Grima House is one of the most significant residences in New Orleans. Its courtyard garden boasts the only horse stable and functional 1830s outdoor kitchen in the French Quarter.

The outdoor hearth kitchen, with its view of the antique roses, citrus and parterre gardens, provides a dynamic experience for visitors. Families can also enjoy a riverfront kids area at the Audubon Aquarium Riverfront Plaza, made possible in part through an excit-

ing partnership with Chevron, Tulane Hospital for Children and the New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park. Anchoring the riverfront Children’s Headquarters is a Kids’ Performance Tent with live music.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. works closely with New Orleans Police and a private security company (FESS, Inc.) to ensure that visitors have a safe

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the "official" dish from 18 an enjoyable experience at French Quarter Festival. New for 2012, the festival is pleased to welcome the New Orleans Guardian Angels Bike Team to French Quarter Festival. Bike teams will patrol the French Quarter and Riverfront and will also provide EMS support. Guardian Angels work closely with the New Orleans Police Department.

The TGIF ‘Thank Goodness it’s Festival!’ kickoff fundraiser takes place Wednesday, April 11, from 6-9pm at the House of Blues, with Jon Cleary and the Philthy Phew in the Music Hall and Traditional Jazz in the VooDoo Garden.

In order to keep French Quarter Festival free and open to the public, the organization relies heavily on the contributions of sponsors and partners, beverage and merchandise sales, and

vendor fees. For 2012, the festival is thrilled to welcome back Capital One Bank, as Presenting Sponsor.

In collaboration with BMI, French Quarter Festival welcomes back for its third year the BMI Singer Songwriter Stage at The Historic New Orleans Collection on Royal Street. Broadcast Music, Inc.® (BMI) is an American performing rights organization that represents more than 400,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers in all genres of music and more than 6.5 million works. On Saturday and Sunday of the festival, the BMI Songwriter Stage will feature the region’s finest up-and-comers.

2012 also welcomes the return of dance lessons at the French Market Traditional Jazz Stage; Zydeco dance lessons at the Cajun Zydeco Riverfront Stage; and second line dance lessons in the Children’s Headquarters near Audubon Aquarium. Between musical

breaks, festival patrons are invited to learn traditional dance-styles such as the Charleston, Swing, Zydeco and Second-line.

Instructors from NOLA Jitterbugs will demonstrate and educate visitors on these various dance styles.

Festival Sponsors for the 29th annual French Quarter Festival as of February 9 include: Capital One Bank (Presenting Sponsor), Abita Brewing Company, WWL-TV, Tropical Isle, Rouses Market, Harrah’s Foundation, French Market Corporation, Chevron, New TUMS Freshers, Louisiana Office of Tourism, City of New Orleans, Brown Foundation, Musician’s Performance Fund, Louisiana State Museum, PJ’s Coffee, nola.com, Louisiana Lottery, House of Blues, Hotel Monteleone, United Airlines, Pat O’s on the River, Hard Rock Café, Windsor Court Hotel, [continued on 22]

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the "official" dish ...from 21 BMI, Court of Two Sisters, Tulane Medical Center, Tulane Hospital for Children at Tulane Medical Center, Hermann Grima House, Applitite, Musical Legends Park, New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park, Rolland Lock and Safe, Pelican Ice, SDT, OffBeat Magazine, Where Y’at Magazine, New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, NOLA Jitterbugs, NOTV, NOLA Baby & Family Magazine, Musical Legends Park, Preservation Hall, The Historic New Orleans Collection, St. Louis Cathedral, Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse, NewOrleans.com, Louisiana Cookin’, Kids and Family New Orleans, IntheKnowla.com, Where Magazine, Curve Magazine, Ambush Magazine, New Orleans Magazine, Louisiana Life Magazine, Acadian Profile, MyNewOrleans.com, St. Charles Avenue Magazine, New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles, 96.1 The River, 101.5 WYNK, 102.5 WFMF, and 1150AM WJOB. French Quarter Festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc., (FQFI) the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest in August and Christmas New Orleans Style in December. For more information about any of these events, call 504.522.5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

29th Mardi Gras Mask Market Feb. 17-20

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he historic French Market will be the site for retail specials and commemorative items, special events, and general Mardi Gras cheer throughout the month of February, culminating in the 29th annual Mardi Gras Mask Market alongside the Farmers Market Feb. 17th-20th, 11am-6pm with live music, food booths, kids activities, and artisan masks for sale from over a dozen specialty mask vendors from New Orleans and around the country.

Retail shops will be handing out commemorative Mardi Gras fans (featuring the French Market Mardi Gras logo) with purchases at Shops at the Upper Pontalba and the Colonnade along Decatur. Shoppers can also enter to win a shopping spree at the French Market.

French Market’s Facebook page will be the site of mask photography contests as part of the Mardi Gras Madness campaign. Find us as “French Market New Orleans” to stay informed and to enter to win Mardi Gras gift baskets from the French Market.

The Farmers and Flea Markets, open daily, will be offering everything from fresh king cakes to handmade secondline umbrellas, masks, and Mardi Gras photography, artwork, and jewelry. Come get your picture in front of the iconic French Market arch, recently adorned with Mardi Gras masks.

New Mardi Gras decorations fill Dutch Alley where the usual white string lights will shine purple, gold, and green. Fleur de lis ornaments hanging from the oaks at Washington Artillery Park across from Jackson Square have also had a “Mardi Gras re-do” and will sparkle with the traditional color trio.

Visit www.frenchmarket.org for a full music schedule, photos, and links to mask vendor websites and images. Fan us on Facebook “French Market New Orleans” to stay posted on updates, contests, and event and retail announcements throughout Mardi Gras season.

During Mask Market Feb. 17th-20th, music will be featured at the Farmers Market and Dutch Alley Pavilion, including performances by: Russell Batiste, Joe Cabral, Carlo Ditta, Kid Merv, Joe Krown, Cullen Landry & The Midnight Streetcar, Ingrid Lucia, New Wave Brass Band, John Sinclair and more. Full schedule is available at www.frenchmarket.org.

Mask vendors will showcase their wares Friday-Monday (Lundi Gras) 11am to 6pm alongside the Farmers Market between Ursulines and Gov. Nicholls including Jacklyn Grageda Best, Cris Chapman, Jane Clugston, Wendy Drolma, Ann Guccione & Judy Trapp, John McBride, Melissa Neyrey, Laura C. Roe, Semmerling & Schaefer Mask Studios Richard Thompson, Carl Trapani, Diane Trapp and Vincent Ur. Children's actitivies are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday only 12noon to 3pm including face painting, balloon art, and craft booths for kids to make handmade masks, second line hankies, and other carnival crafts, hosted by local artists and groups, including YA/YA under the pavilion in the Farmers Market. It's free!

There are special Mardi Gras items and events at retail shops, from local children’s author book signings of Mardi Gras picture books at A Tisket A Tasket to Mardi Gras themed artwork, hats, and jewelry at Dutch Alley Artist Co-Op. Check out the Mardi Gras jewelry at the newly relocated Blue Alligator Designs, now at the Shops at the Upper Pontalba on Jackson Square. Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @ “FrenchMktNOLA” for updates on other retail specials and spotlights.

Loretta’s Pralines has their specialty praline king cakes as well as traditional king cakes available for counter top pick up in their French Market counter (where they also sell fresh baked goods and pralines!) Order for pickup or delivery by calling 504.944.7068.

There are free concerts and films at the New Orleans National Historical Jazz Park, including these special events Mardi Gras weekend: Friday, Feb. 17th, 2pm– 3:30pm at the Old U.S. Mint—across from the flea market at Barracks Street: A Carnival themed concert including special guests Spy Boy Irving “Honey” Banister and Al “Carnival Time” Johnson; Saturday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 19th, 11am to 4pm, take a break from the Mask Market and parading and go inside the Jazz Park at the Dutch Alley Visitor Center—between Dumaine and St Phillip Streets, next to Galvez Restaurant—and enjoy free jazz films all day.

Hidden Treasures: Decorative Arts Edition Presented by Friends of the Cabildo March 27 & 29

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oin the Friends of the Cabildo as the Louisiana State Museum’s impressive Newcomb Pottery Collection is opened for an exclusive behind-the-scenes viewing of one of the most significant American potteries of the first half

of the 20th century. Katie Hall, Curator of the Decorative Arts for the Louisiana State Museum, will guide you through an in-depth look at the distinct designs and artistry of the Newcomb potters, usually off limits to the general public.

The tours will also provide a preview to the Newcomb Pottery exhibit at Madam John’s Legacy in late 2012.

Hidden Treasures of the Louisiana State Museum: Decorative Arts Edition takes place Tuesday and Thursday, March 27th and 29th. Tours are at 6pm and 7pm at the Louisiana State Museum’s Collection Storage Facility, located at 1000 Chartres Street in the French Quarter. Cost is $20 per person, or $15 for Friends of the Cabildo members. Reservations are required, and space is extremely limited.

To reserve your space, please contact Rebecca Duckert at 504.523.3939.

Future behind-the-scenes tours are planned focusing on the Museum’s visual arts, decorative arts, science and technology, Louisiana music, and manuscripts collections.

Friends of the Cabildo is a private non-profit volunteer group that provides financial and volunteer support for the Louisiana State Museum, its projects and its property. Since incorporating in 1956, the Friends of the Cabildo has grown into a large statewide membership organization, a dynamic and motivating force in broadening and supporting the aims of the Louisiana State Museum.

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celebr azzi

Krewe of Queenateenas' Co-Captians Marsha & Rip Naquin-Delain flank King Cake Queen XIX Nicole DuBois, "The Samba Queen"

King Cake Queen Royalty Club: KCQ's IX Lisa Beaumann, X Teryl-Lynn Foxx, XIII Raven Kennedy, XIV Princesse Stephaney, XIX Nicole DuBois, XV Marsha Naquin-Delain, XVII Opal Masters & XVIII Rona Conners (GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ)

C

arnivale in Rio set the tone for the 19th King Cake Queen of Gay Mardi Gras Coronation of Nicole DuBois. Hosted at the Ambush Mansion, 828 Bourbon Street, "The Samba Queen," along with Co-Captains Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, greeted over 225 guests for the annual by invitation only Krewe of Queenateenas soiree.

As author's Frank Perez and Jeffrey Palmquist state in their just released book, In Exile: The History and Lore Surrounding New Orleans Gay Culture and Its Oldest Gay Bar, "If there is such a thing as the upper echelon of gay society in New Orleans, it can be found at the coronation party of the King Cake Queen, hosted annually at the 'Ambush Mansion.'"

The receiving line, staged in the offices of Ambush Mag on the first floor, was continually flowing for the entire 45 minutes of its duration. Here wine and beer were served by Miss Billy, as well as Gaucho Gumbo with Wild Duck, Venison & Alligator Sausage.

Guests then headed upstairs to the home of the Naquin-Delain's stopping in Belle Lain's Magnolia Bar on the second floor landing for cocktails by Ashlee of Corner Pocket fame. Entering the second floor hallway, guests mingled in the formal Victorian parlour, the formal dining room, and out on to the world famous Ambush Balcony. The Taste of Rio de Janeiro served in the dining room was personally prepared by the Naquin-Delain's included: Feijoada, the National Dish of Brazil (Black Bean Meat Stew) with Ham Hocks, Wild Boar, Beef, Linguica & Chorizo; Brazilian Paella with Chicken & Smoked Sausage; Pate de Corned Beef; Salada Rio de Janeiro with Marinated Hearts of Palm, Mushrooms, Tomatoes, Pearl Onions & Quail Eggs; Brazilian Goat Cheese with Brazil Nuts, Bacon & Honey; and Cream Cheese King Cake by Antoine's. Wild game was courtesy of the Chaisson & Vaughn Families of Berwick.

And if this were not enough, for the second year, the Krewe of Delusion went off its parade route passing in front of the Ambush Mansion much to the delight of Coronation guests.

Formal Dining Room

Ambush Mansion World Famous Bourbon Street Balcony

Q

ueen and Petronius LI Les Falgout and Ray Anderson brought to a climax the 51st Krewe of Petronius Bal Masque: Let It Be at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette, Louisiana. The charity number performed by Miss Gay Louisiana America Maybelline Maskara in honor of the late Petronius Queen XLII Toni Pizanie brought in over $1,000 for the PFLAG Scholarship in her name. For more on the krewe, visit KreweOfPetronius.ORG.

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Miss Amyah @ Emerald City’s Saturday night Drink & Drown

Ben & Josh @ The Other Side The stunning Miss Taylor Heart

Drag Bingo @ The Other Side The hot men of Emerald City

Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party

pensacola papar azzi

Always a good time @ The Other Side

Miss Ebony Sinclaire & Chris @ Emerald City Brent @ Drag Bingo

The lovely ladies of Drag Bingo Ricky @ Drag Bingo

Roy always has a smile @ Emerald City’s Underwear Party Pretty in Pink @ Emerald City

Miss Monica Heart @ Emerald City

Adam & Tim @ Drag Bingo

Amy looking stunning as always @ Emerald City

Emerald City’s Saturday night Drink & Drown

Emerald City’s Blackout Underwear Party

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Always some naked boys in the cages @ Emerald City

In the Cages ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell

Emerald City’s very own Miss Lauren Mitchell

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CANAL STREET

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1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

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classifieds

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Slidell, LA [985] OLDE SLIDELL ANTIQUE DISTRICT, First & Erlanger Streets, antique malls, gift shops, doll shop & restaurants, 643.4790, SlidellAntiques.COM

autos Metairie, LA [504] WALKER ACURA, 8951 Veterans Blvd., 464.4004, WalkerAcura.COM

bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWN PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 Lafayette, LA [337] JULES DOWNTOWN, 533 Jefferson,

body rubs New Orleans, LA Experience The BODY ELECTRIC, nude rub, erotic, hot oils, full service table, deep tissue, light tissue, body scrubs. In & out calls.

CALL AL 214.709.5199 [is312]

book stores New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 Mr. Binky's Boutique, 107 Chartres St., 302.2095 Mr. Binky's Boutique of Harahan, 301 Funston St., 305.2160

cable shows T R PA M A R

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

antiques

MICHAEL'S ON THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450 NINTH CIRCLE, 700 N. Rampart, 252.4558 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156.

TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, TubbysBar.COM VOODOO BAR, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0950 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Bay St. Louis, MS [228] CLUB RED, 317 Reese St.,, 467.5920, ClubRedBSL.COM Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271

264.8000 TONIC, 2013 Pinhook Rd., 269.6011 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457 Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, 4seasonsno.com CLUB LAX, 2301 N. Causeway, 834.7979 New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 BOURBON PUB & PARADE, 801 Bourbon St., 529.2107, BourbonPub.COM BYWATER PATIO BAR, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829 COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200, CuttersBar.BIZ THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735 LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340

New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 99

casinos Lake Charles, LA [337] L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort, 777 Avenue L’Auberge, 337.395.7777 or 866.580.7444, ldlcasino.com New Orleans, LA [504] Harrah's New Orleans Casino, Canal @ the River, 800.,HARRAHS, GayHarrahsNOLA.COM

chiropractic Chalmette, LA [504] SIMPLY PRECISE CHIROPRACTIC, Dr. Domingo De Los Reyes D.C., 9135 West Judge Perez, Suite B, 504.302.1718, SimplyPreciseChiropractic.COM [is213] New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is312]

circuit/events Feb. 17-21, 2012, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 8, 2012, 13th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 25-28, 2012, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM Aug. 29-Sept. 3, 2012 41st Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 125,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 25-28, 2012 Halloween 29, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com

Dec. 28, 2012-Jan. 1, 2013, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM

counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, PhD, LPC, Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000

florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381

for rent New Orleans, LA [504] APARTMENT FOR RENT, upstairs large refurbished 2 BR, 2 bath, kitchen, dining/living room, yard available, in Bywater at St. Ferdinand & Dauphine, $1,100 per month plus utilities (water paid), $1,100 deposit, Call Saxon @ 504.919.4129 [is412]

framing New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAMES, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726

galleries New Orleans, LA [504] BLISS McCALL STUDIO, by appointment, 631 Elysian Fields Ave., 391.9131, BlissMcCall.COM DIETY ARTS OF THE EXTREME ORIENT, 830 N. Rampart, DietyNOLA.COM TANNER ORIGINAL ART, 830 Royal St., 524.8266, HauntingArt.COM

guides America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, ambushmag.com; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com

groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] FRADY'S ONE STOP GROCERY & DELICATESSEN, 3231 Dauphine St., 949.9688 MATASSA'S MARKET, 1001 Dauphine St., 512.8700 QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

hair salons Mandeville, LA [985] RESTORATION HAIR DESIGN, 1800 W. Causeway Approach, Suite 119, 626.4353 New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Rue Dauphine, 522.2666 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782 SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur, 565.5555

insurance New Orleans, LA [504] ALLSTATE: Buckwalter Insurance Group LLC, 2002 20th St., Kenner, 504.469.4800;101 Schexnayder Ln., Destrehan, 985.764.3833

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lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, E-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queensize beds, private entrances; located only six blocks from Bourbon Street and walking distance to most New Orleans attractions. Several favorite bars are within one block.

[0711] BURGUNDY BED AND BREAKFAST, 2513 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE/FAX: 504.942.1463, Toll Free (Continental US only): 1.800.970.2153, theburgundy.com, E-mail us at theburgundy@cox.net. Gay owned and operated in newly renovated 1890's double. Four guest rooms with private baths, guests' parlor and "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. [0811] FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253,FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com.

Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. One of several French Quarter residences that have been painstakingly restored and transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites. Beautiful and spacious townhomes available to accommodate groups of any size adjacent to the hotel.

Just 3 short blocks from Bourbon St, with free Wi-Fi and complimentary continental breakfast and access to two beautiful pools. Covered off street parking available.

MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking.

[0112] NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.522.7333, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com, “Spectacular, very unusual piece of property” with balconies of varying design ringing the courtyard. Circa 1880 Historic New Orleans Home lovingly restored and converted into beautifully appointed rooms. Just steps away from Armstrong park, Bourbon St, and most of the popular gay clubs, bars, and restaurants. With two pools, free WiFi and complimentary continental breakfast.

Secured off street parking available.

BON MAISON GUEST HOUSE, 835 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.561.8498 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.524.3621

marketing & printing New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812, 586.9817, offering printing and marketing services including web design and hosting. info@sirspeedyneworleans.com, sirspeedyneworleans.com

massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage; heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & thai massage/bodywork). Call 504.458.5996 / website righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is2611]

media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New

Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St., 592.4666

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w. G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 838.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday 12:15pm Solumn Mass, 5pm Praise & Worship, at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, w w w . b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , pastor@bigeasymcc.com BIG EASY STOMPERS, 1317 Pasadena Ave., Metairie, LA 70001 www.NewOrleansHoedown.com BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112;

566.7955 CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, Email: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons.

Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 701566836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131.

The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation.

KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, info@kreweofarmeinius.org, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF AMON RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 71665, 70172, Pres. Arthur Alarcon 451.9507, Capt.

Bill McCarthy 430.6695, KreweOfPetronius.ORG KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. Email: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LESBIAN & GAY COMMUNITY CENTER OF NEW ORLEANS, 2114 Decatur St., 701162013; 945.1103, Fax 945.1102, Email: info@lgccno.net LORDS OF LEATHER, P.O. Box 770435, New Orleans, LA 70117-4035, LordsOfLeather.COM LOUISIANA STATE GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (LSGRA), 915.3339, lance@lsgra.com, LSGRA.COM MCLNO HOP Clinic, 136 S. Roman Street, 4th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112; Appts.: 504.903.6959, www.hopclinic.org MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, PO Box 15889, 70115-5889 MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 322.7007, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601;

34 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 14-27, 2012 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide • GayMar diGras.COM

NOAIDSTaskForce.COM N'R Peace, 3201 Gen. DeGaulle Dr., Suite 201, 70114, 364.1950 OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM PEOPLE OF SUBSTANCE, INC. (POS), 7210 Arbor Dr., 70126, 244.1920, posnola.com PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PRIDE NEW ORLEANS CELEBRATION NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONAL AIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 SOFTBALL LEAGUE – Great fun for all skill levels, beginner to advanced. Visit nolasoftball.com for full details and find us on Facebook.

THE COMMUNITY COALITION OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS LGBTQ Organizations & Businesses, tccgno.org, 569.9156 Until It Is OVER, Inc., Executive Director Don S. Evans, Sr., 5837 De Bore Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70126, Phone 504 722 1694, Fax 504 286 5784 VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com WILLIAM J. FANNING FOUNDATION [Buzzy’s Boys & Girls], 2301 Chartres, 70117; 943.8929 Shreveport, LA [318] PHILADELPHIA CENTER, PO Box 44454, 71134-4454; 222.6633 YWCA AIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717

Office: 948.3011, SRichards@LatterBlum.com LATTER & BLUM, Agent Brian M. Pawlowski, brianrealtor@aol.com, Agent Stace McDonald, stacerealtor@aol.com, 840 Elysian Fields, 451.2495

pets

spas

New Orleans, LA [504] CHI-WA-WA GA-GA, 511 Dumaine; 581.4242; chiwawagaga.com DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455 FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 513 Dumaine St., 302.9845

New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com

pharmacy New Orleans, LA [504] & Baton Rouge, LA [225] AVITA DRUGS SPECIALIZED PHARMACY, free discrete delivery serving Louisiana, Mississippi & Texas. Certified pharmacists caring for HIV/AIDS, new-to-market & hard-to-find medications including Serostim. Local pharmacy that supports the LGBT community. www.AvitaDrugs.COM. MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 The Decadence Shoppe (coffehouse & cafe), 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, 504.371.5074 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET

retail/shopping Metairie, LA [504] SUZETTE'S, 4636 W. Esplanade, 888.7722, Suzettes.COM New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423, laminasterling@gmail.com PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 RAZZLE DAZZLE, 524 Royal St. 568.0001, RazzleDazzle.COM RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662

tattoos New Orleans, LA [504] AART ACCENT NEW ORLEANS, 1041 N. Rampart St., 581.9812

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM JOY THEATER, 1200 Canal St., TheJoyTheater.COM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052

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New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com

New Orleans, LA [504] Adventures Actually, Kate Alexander, 220.5503, AdventuresActually.COM

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New Orleans, LA [504] PIPES "R" US PLUMBING, “Let us PEEP in your pipes”, 140 N. Carrollton Ave., Office 504.866.2730, Fax 504.484.0907, PipesRUsNewOrleans.COM

OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, SouthernDecadence.COM

real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] LATTER & BLUM, Agent Steve Richards, 712 Rue D’Orleans @ Rue Royal, Cell: 258.1800,

Ambush Ads Pay 504.522.8049 GayNew Orleans.COM • Sout hernDec adenc e.COM • Feb. 14-27, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 35

under the gaydar

by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

Bartender of the Month

I

t is Mardi Gras time which for a bartender means larger crowds and lots of long hours. But my bartender for the month of February can handle just about anything. He is one of those truly special individuals who looks like he can control any situation life hands to him effortlessly with a disarming smile. I am talking about Drew Kingswell at the Country Club.

In my opinion, Drew is one of those destination bartenders. What does this term mean, it signifies that Drew is a person that people make an effort to visit, like a friend. I had a chance to chat with him, and I can see why patrons enjoy his company.

He is quick witted, interesting, smart and most of all visually appealing (the boy is damn sexy!). Hailing from Pensacola, Drew came to New Orleans during Mardi Gras 2009, and stayed. After a brief stint at Cafe Lafitte in Exile, he landed at the Country Club and the venue is certainly lucky to have him.

Drew brings a new meaning to service with a smile. He has a fun line he likes to often quote, “Do you know how hard it is to be equally rude to everyone so that no one person thinks you are a dick.” As long as you say it when you are smiling then that means you’re joking. But all kidding aside, this young man is truly a gifted bartender whose Pimm’s Cup is hailed by locals as one of the best in the city. And during the summer, his Guava Rum Punch is to die for. He also helps raise funds for the Naked Bike Ride which is in its fourth year here in New Orleans. With just a smile and Crown Royal bag covering his nether region, Drew pedals across the city. Talk about the best ultimate advertising, having Drew in nothing but the Crown Royal bag is better than having a billboard by the Superdome. I do not know why their ad agency has not made him a spokesmodel. I think Ambush Magazine needs to host a party on their balcony for the race, when the cyclists make their way down Bourbon Street.

And not only is Drew bringing in the crowds to the Country Club, but they are making some exciting new changes. The bar is going to be completely overhauled during Mardi Gras.

They are making the bar area larger, creating an island in the center with a swanky new look. Now with a great restaurant, new look and fabulous staff, the Country Club is being a destination of choice. Oh, yes, there is also the clothing optional pool area outside that gives guests the illusion of being in an island paradise.

So take the time out to go and share a Pimm’s Cup with Drew at the Country Club. I can promise you a great time. The Country Club is located at 634 Louisa Street.

Broadway in New Orleans Unveils Its 2012-2013 Season

T

he new Broadway season lineup has been released and it’s going to be so amazing. The 2012-2013 East Jefferson General Hospital Broadway in New Orleans season has both new hits and familiar Broadway favorites. The fiveshow season playing at the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts includes: LES MISÉRABLES, Oct. 30 – Nov. 4; MARY POPPINS, Dec. 18–23; JERSEY BOYS, Jan. 8–27, 2013; FLASHDANCE, Feb. 26 – Mar. 3, 2013; MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, April 16 - 21, 2013; WICKED*, May 8 – June 2, 2013. *Season special – add to your Season Subscription package!

Season tickets have gone on sale now. Five-show Broadway in New Orleans season subscription packages start as low as $148 and include LES MISÉRABLES, MARY POPPINS, JERSEY BOYS, FLASHDANCE and MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET. WICKED is not included in the fiveshow package, and only Season Subscribers have first access and can add WICKED to their Season Subscription upon renewal.

For more information, patrons can visit BroadwayInNewOrleans.com or call the Broadway Across America Season Ticket Hotline at 1.800.218.SHOW (7469) during extended renewal hours of Monday - Friday, 9am to 7pm, Saturday, 11am to 4pm. The Mahalia Jackson Theater is located in Armstrong Park at 801 N. Rampart Street, New Orleans. Information on the Broadway Across America - New Orleans series and venue policies and accommodations may be obtained online at www.mahaliajacksontheater.com.

Group Sales information is available at 504.287.0372. Box Office information

is available at 504.287.0351.

Satyricon is Divine

T

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is presenting the opening night performance of Divine Sister on Thursday, Feb. 23 at the Mid City Theatre. Award-winning actor Varla Jean Merman joins a fabulous cast in this comic homage to all Hollywood films about nuns. Written by the Tony Award-nominated Charles Busch, The Divine Sister tells the twisted story of a Mother Superior who is trying to deal with numerous crises within her order, including a young postulant experiencing “visions” and a sensitive schoolboy in need of mentoring. Tickets are $25 and the play starts at 8pm. Mid City Theatre is at 3540 Toulouse Street between N. Cortez and Jeff Davis Parkway. There is a cash bar, and free parking all around the building. For tickets, call 504.415.6476.

Everyone Wants To Be Immortal

M

ichael Jackson, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Cleopatra are just a few of the fabulous people who will be reincarnated for the night at the Friday Night Before Mardi Gras’ Immortals Ball at the Audubon Tea Room on Feb. 17. This is the organizations 13th extravaganza and it is sure to be an amazing night of food, drink, dancing and costumed merriment.

I went to this party a few years ago and was hooked. It one of the most entertaining fetes of the season. And it is very surreal to be dancing with Batman or Mickey Mouse in the middle of the Zoo. God, I love this city!

Your entry ticket includes open premium bar, food, immortal tunes and dancing, costume contest with prizes, silent auctions of original artwork and a raffle of fabulous prizes. The Friday Night Before Mardi Gras is non-profit organization whose parties have raised thousands of dollars for charities in the New Orleans Metropolitan area for years.

This is a no brainer, have a fun time for a good cause. Now that is Mardi Gras in the Crescent City. The event goes from 9pm to midnight. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.fridaynightbeforemardigras.com.

Lost is Space

T

he Lords of Leather are presenting their 29th Bal Masque on Sunday, Feb. 19. at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette. This year they are blasting us off with their Sci-Fi Ball, can you just imagine the futuristic outfits they will imagine, Bianca as Barbarella (the character Jane Fonda played in the movie and not the local

drag queen). I absolutely love this ball, everyone has a great time and the men are hot. The doors open at 7pm and the ball starts at 8pm. The attire is formal, costume or leather attire.

The Sigur Center is located at 8245 W. Judge Perez. For tickets or more information, go to www.lordsofleather.com.

Makin’ Groceries This Mardi Gras

T

he Krewe of Armeinius presents its 44th Tableau Ball on Saturday, Feb. 18. at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette. The theme this year is called Makin’ Groceries so you know it will be an outrageous night of fabulous costumes and crazy antics especially with Blanche DeBris and Bianca del Rio at the helm.

The doors open at 7:45pm and the ball starts at 9pm. The attire is strictly formal. The Sigur Center is located at 8245 W. Judge Perez. For more information or tickets, go to www.kreweofarmenius.org.

Party Down

T

he Mardi Gras season is going full throttle in the Crescent City and so is the party scene. I began my busy week on Wednesday with the opening party of the Hotel Mazarin located at 730 Bienville Street. Formerly the St. Louis Hotel, the Mazarin is the Quarter’s newest boutique property with 102 guest rooms and three suites. Guests at their party were able to tour the redesigned hotel’s various rooms which were extremely spacious. They also offer the only wine bar in the French Quarter, Patrick’s Bar Vin. This beautifully appointed lounge is run by French Quarter legend Patrick Hoorsbeck and is an inviting oasis for people who want to escape the madness of Bourbon Street to a more refined atmosphere.

But the number one thing about this hotel is they boast one of the lushest and tropical courtyards in the city.

They even have a canopy that covers it during inclement weather. It is a perfect place to hold a special event or party.

On Saturday, I went to the Petronius Ball at the Frederick J. Sigur Center in Chalmette. Invitees were offered a step back in time to the sixties; a time of the Beatles, flower power and most of all free love. The Let It Be Ball was a pleasurable ride with Princesse Stephaney and co-captain Bill McCarthy at the wheel. The costumes were colorful and the mood of the entire night was one of happiness. I want to thank Petronius for giving one of my most memorable evenings by honoring me with the Carnival Spirit of Gay Mardi Gras Award. I was pretty speechless (a rarity for me) when they called

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[continued on 39]

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under the gaydar ...from 36 my name. Very cool! Thank you Petronius for a wonderful distinction.

The following day, I emceed the Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Rush Party at JohnPaul’s. We had some great entertainers like Princesse Stephaney, Derrick Stevens, Johnny Passion and Craig Henry. The FNBMG is one of the best costume parties of the Carnival season, so I highly recommend everyone to attend. And with a theme like the Immortals Ball, how can you go wrong. This year it is at the Audubon Tea Room which is an el-

egant place to hold this function.

On Tuesday, I went to see the Blue Man Group at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre with my friend Nick. Now is there some cosmic joke that maybe I am not seeing about these guys, because they seem to be pretty famous around the country, but I just don’t get it. Blue guys jumping around on stage, beating drums with psychedelic paint, still can’t wrap myself around it. What they need to do is serve shots or hallucinogenics to the audience beforehand; then maybe they can sit through this hour and a half show with no intermission.

Carnival Time ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John

Great times with Judson @ B-Bob’s

mobile

papar azzi

2012 King Osiris Stevie posing with Miss Cie

The next weekend brought scores of events. Kicking off the festivities on Friday was the FNBMG host party at Gallery Orange on Royal Street. Now this is always an elegant shindig and this year was no exception. It had great scrumptious food served by Metro Catering, a hot guy playing guitar, wonderful artwork to peruse and exceptional company. The host pass is the perfect way to go for the FNBMG. Not only does it get you into the event which includes, food, drink, music, a keepsake photograph and a custom pin, but you get to mingle with some or with all kinds of Immortals such as Michael Jackson, Marilyn Monroe, Cleopatra and many more. I hear even Patsy and Edina may be making an appearance.

Afterwards, I hopped over to the SEELA/Gay Pride Masquerade event at JohnPaul’s. There was a huge crowd of partygoers and the show was fabulous with hosts Persana Shoulders, Johnny Passion and Summer Rayne.

It was nice to see so many younger people getting involved. Following that, the high energy Frankie Fierce and I pedi-cabbed over to Michael’s on the Park for Princesse Stephaney's Les Femme Fatales show. Again there was a nice crowd and kudos should go to Mike Cookmeyer for making the old Starlight by the Park a more inviting place.

Saturday rolled in along with the Orleans Parish ‘s first parade of the season, Krewe du Vieux. Now this was

a marathon night for me, Frankie and Dusty DeBris. First we attended Laura Tennyson’s pre-parade gathering at her house on Mandeville Street where we caught most of the parade. Then we headed into the Quarter to my friend Alison’s party at her family’s house on Royal Street. This incredible home was once a gay bar called the Refuge in the seventies and has a spacious wrap around balcony. After a brief sojourn there, we trekked to Ambush headquarters for the King Cake Queen Coronation party. The lovely Nicole DuBois along with Rip and Marsha, greeted all guests as they entered.

The feel of the night reflected the Samba Queen’s theme in the food as well as the décor, Carnivale in Rio. It was an exquisite night of mingling with other royalty from all the krewes as well as other invited guests. Nicole will make a wonderful Queen for Gay Mardi Gras this year. Still in the party mode, a large group of us moved the festivities to Michael’s on the Park for Rusty LeRoux’s Zoo Revue which is always eventful to say the least.

So that is it for now. It is Carnival time in the Big Easy, so put on your big girl panties and get ready to party!

Tony’s Tidbits of Wisdom

E

verything is better in moderation, but unfortunately in New Orleans, nothing is [continued on 46]

Miss Venus with Bacchus owner Rick

Miss Cie & Ladies @ Osiris Mardi Gras Ball

Queen Michelle @ Krewe of Phoenix Ball, with Wright & Zeb

The new 2012 King Of Osiris Stephen Phillips

Hello Travis & Lee

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big easy

papar azzi

Ticket To Ride

Lovely Rita

Goldfinger - King L Jimmie DeBlanc

MC Princess for Life Princesse Stephaney

Strawberry Fields

Baby You’re A Rich Man Rain

Miss Gay Louisiana America Maybelline Maskara raises dollars for PFLAG Scholarship Fund

Chains Lady Madonna

Queen Petronius LI Les Falgout

Let It Be - Co-Captain Bootsie DeVille

Here Comes The Sun Please Mr. Postman

Let It Be - Co-Captain Chad Brickley

She Love You

Mr. Moonlight

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King Petronius LI Ray Anderson

Petronius Bal Masque LI Let It Be @ Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center ~ Chalmette, Louisiana

Goldfinger - Queen L Bootsie DeVille

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ambush

papar azzi

Mike, Darrell & Lucille @ Jay’s Celebration of Life Bartender Lannie @ Ninth Circle Double Play bartender Will

Corner Pocket’s Michael joins Lucille for Jay’s Celebration of Life Marcus & Mitch behind the bar @ Oz

Bourbon Pub Parade bartender Tim & office manager Chuck

Rusty LeRoux stars in The Zoo Revue @ Michael’s On The Park

DL out @ Ninth Circle

Tadhg & Lil behind the bar @ Voodoo

Alex & Lou Celebrate Jay’s Life Catch Kevin for Bean Night Mondays @ Cutter’s

Candise, Colette & Greg @ Le Roundup Lady, Janice & Louis cocktailin’ @ Michael’s On The Park

Richard & Patrick @ Voodoo Bar Kenny Petit & bar baron Mac @ Cutter’s

Celebrating @ 700 Club

Quartermaster staff & Lucille host Jay Verona’s Celebration of Life @ Corner Pocket

Carol behind the bar @ Le Roundup

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Marigny Manor House’s Gil & John cocktailin’ @ Phoenix

The Big Easy ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon

Bartender Frankie celebrates Bourbon Pride’s Philip b-day with Pearson @ Oz

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Joann Guidos, KCQ XIX Nicole, KCQ XV Marsha & Lisa Guidos

Mwindo Capt. Bobby, KCQ XIX Nicole & Society Page’s Trux

Deja Deja-Vue’, KCQ XIX Nicole & Jim May

Sam, KCQ XIV Princesse Stephaney, KCQ XIX Nicole & KCQ XV Marsha KCQ XIX Nicole & KCQ X Teryl-Lynn Foxx

Amon-Ra Capt. John Zeringue, KCQ XIX Nicole & Robert Cook Double Play’s Will Antil & KCQ XIX Nicole

First guests Robyn Brown, KCQ XIX Nicole, George Tresch & KCQ XV Marsha SDGM's XXXIV Electra City & XXXV Tittie Toulouse flank KCQ XIX Nicole

In Exile author Frank Perez, KCQ XIX Nicole & Tim Kinzel Oz GM Tommy Elias & KCQ XIX Nicole

Randall Hammons, KCQ XIX Nicole & official KCQ photographer Larry Graham

Michael Trupiano, KCQ XIX Nicole & King Armeinius XLIV Kevin Charpentier aka Blanche DeBris

Ray Conard II, KCQ XIX Nicole & Coca Mesa

KCQ XIX Nicole & KCQ XIII Raven Kennedy

Lord King & Consort XXVIII Ben Bourgeois & Pat Johnson flank KCQ XIX Nicole

Tim Silva, KCQ XIX Nicole & Nina M. Clore

Corner Pocket’s Michael ELias & KCQ XIX Nicole

King Amon-Ra XLVI Jerry Scavo, KCQ XIX Nicole & Kenny Walker

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Carnivale in Rio ~ 19th King Cake Queen of Gay Mardi Gras Coronation of Nicole DuBois ~ Ambush Mansion ~ New Orleans

KCQ’s XV Marsha Naquin-Delain, XIX Nicole DuBois, XVIII Rona Conners & XVII Opal Masters

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trodding the boards

by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD and HD Encores at AMC Elmwood Palace 20 through April 25

W

ant to have a front row seat to some of the most magnificent productions in the Metropolitan Opera’s repertoire without having to fly up to New York and pay hundreds of dollars for the tix? Then head to the AMC Elmwood Palace 20 in Harahan or any of the other multiplexes where screenings are held of the Metropolitan Opera’s Live in HD broadcasts and subsequent HD Encores.

Now in their fifth season, these breakthrough work from 1830 about transmissions continue to offer the Henry VIII’s second wife. The broadunique opportunity to enjoy not only the cast started late due to transmission opera, but, before the show and during problems but at least an apologetic intermission, backstage interviews with announcement was made. the singers and members of the creThough the libretto plays fast and ative team who make the magic hap- loose with history, those Tudors have pen. always provided juicy drama from The live broadcasts occur on Sat- Shakespeare to HBO. And in its draurday afternoons; the encore rebroad- matic and musical highlights, of which casts are on Wednesday nights a few there were many, the camera’s immeweeks later. I’ve seen two so far this diacy caused the opera to be absoseason, Anna Bolena with Anna lutely thrilling.

Netrebko and Philip Glass’ Satyagraha Not only was Netrebko, one of the about Mahatma Gandhi. Both were world’s reigning divas, in glorious voice quite wonderful. for this most challenging of bel canto Anna Bolena opened the Met’s scores, but with her high cheekbones season in September; it was the and pouty lips she knows how to make company’s first production of Donizetti’s love to the camera as well.

under the gaydar ...from 39 ever done with temperance. In fact during Mardi Gras, we abandon all restraint and just get crazy. So I thought it might be a little helpful if I just gave you a few hangover cures that may help you get through this long season of late nights or walks of shame in the wee hours of the morning. And trust me if anyone is an expert at hangovers, it’s me. Well, maybe Elizabeth Bouvier may have me beat.

Let’s begin with the old faithful; drink a large glass of water plus two Tylenols before bed and you will wake up feeling bright and cheerful. Unfortunately for me, they did not say that you should not have vodka in the water so I kind of screwed that one up.

So after doing some research on the web, here are a few of the other hangover cures that many people have come up with.

Drink fruit juice. A large glass of orange juice or tomato juice, in other words, will help accelerate removal of the alcohol still in your system the morning after. Again like before, no alcohol in it. Even though they say a little hair of the dog will keep your hangover at bay, that is a slippery slope to dependency. But hey everyone has to have a vice.

Eat crackers and honey. Honey is a very concentrated source of fructose. Believe it or not, sauerkraut juice is said by some to neutralize conge-

ners.

Get some pain relief. A headache is invariably a part of the package that goes with a hangover. Take aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen but nothing stronger than that. Willow bark is a natural, organic pain reliever as it contains a natural form of salicylate, the active ingredient in aspirin.

Drink bouillon. Broth made from bouillon cubes or any homemade soup broth will help replace the salt and potassium your body loses when you drink.

Replenish your water supply. “Alcohol causes dehydration of your body cells,” says John Brick, Ph.D., chief of research at the Center of Alcohol Studies of Rutgers State University of New Jersey. “Drinking plenty of water before you go to bed and again when you get up the morning after may help relieve discomfort caused by dehydration.”

Take B-complex vitamins. Drinking drains the body of these valuable vitamins. Research shows your system turns to B vitamins when it is under stress—and overtaxing the body with too much booze, beer, or wine definitely qualifies as stress. Replenishing your body with a B-complex vitamin capsule can help shorten the duration of your hangover.

Eat amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Like vitamins and minerals, they can also be depleted by use of alcohol. Replenish-

Tall of stature and with a rumbly bass voice, Ildar Abdrazakov was an imposing Henry VIII. Even better was the mezzo-soprano Ekaterina Gubanova as Boleyn’s lady-in-waiting Jane Seymour, who would become Henry’s third wife. When she and Netrebko faced off, the lush sound complemented the intensity of emotion on display.

During intermission the renowned soprano Renée Fleming, no stranger to these broadcasts, spoke with costume designer Jenny Tiramani who explained the research that went into the outfits. At one point during the interview, Abdrazakov and Gubanova could be seen cutting up in the background, providing a wonderful dichotomy to the drama on stage.

Though there were only ten people in the audience for the HD Encore of Satyagraha in December, our hardy group was treated to an amazing contemporary opera. Performed in Sanskrit with no subtitles (perhaps partly the reason for the low attendance), this opera explores Gandhi’s formative years in South Africa and the development of his philosophy of non-violence.

Before the start of the performance, the Met’s Managing Director Peter Gelb interviewed Glass who spoke of Gandhi’s links to Tolstoy, Tagore and Martin Luther King, Jr. each of whom appear briefly in the opera. Though the composer’s claim that the lack of subtitles forces the audience to concentrate on the visual aspects of the production, there was still powerful music sung beautifully by the Met’s chorus and Richard Croft as Gandhi.

Even with a synopsis at the start of each act, the symbolic, non-linear narrative proved a bit difficult to follow.

Host Eric Owens’ intermission interview with Croft thus enlightened us that ing amino acids plays a role in repairing the ravages of a hangover. Amino acids are also available in capsule form at most health food stores.

Have two cups of coffee. Coffee acts as a vasoconstrictor - something that reduces the swelling of blood vessels that causes headaches. Coffee can do a great deal to relieve the headaches associated with hangovers and is often recommended as a hangover cure but coffee being diuretic may cause you to lose even more fluids.

Eat a good meal. If you can tolerate it, that is. A balanced meal will replace the loss of essential nutrients.

But keep the meal light; no fats or fried foods. Toast, cereal, fruit and yogurt are easier to digest than eggs and dairy.

And last but not least, the best way to cure a hangover is to not drink at all.

But then where is the fun in that. Have a safe Mardi Gras.

If you have an event, story or idea, you want covered, contact me at tonymgp@hotmail.com.

what were watching was, in part, that which is going on in Gandhi’s head.

Phelim McDermott and Julian Crouch’s imaginative production utilized larger than life puppets, that the camera gave us an up-close perspective on. Though the third act was exquisitely slow at a point when some action would have been appreciated, the evening culminated in a powerful finale.

Still to come this season is the Encore of Wagner ’s Götterdämmerung, the acclaimed fourth installment of Robert Lepage’s Ring cycle; Verdi’s Ernani with Angela Meade, Dmitri Hvorostovsky and Marcello Giordani (Feb. 25/Mar. 14); Netrebko and Paulo Szot in Manon by Massenet (Apr. 7 and 25); and the wondrous Natalie Dessay and Hvorostovsky in La Traviata (Apr. 14/ May 2).

And while the price of food at the Elmwood Palace may be outrageous, it’s sure less than a round trip airfare to Manhattan.

That Ain’t No Lady! at La Escuelita Cabaret Theater, NYC, Tuesdays

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he New York Times said she “made me weep with laughter, often while groaning in disgust.” What was supposed to be a one month cabaret engagement has now been extended indefinitely.

And A-gays who might’ve once not given a second look at “the old pig in a wig,” as she calls herself, are now lining up outside the Latino club La Escuelita on West 39th Street and Eighth Avenue hoping to get in. Lady Bunny has clearly arrived.

Looking like a mini-Mardi Gras float as her bouffant wig bounces along, Bunny traffics in tasteless celebrity endorsements and Amy Winehouse jokes that still have a frisson of naughtiness about them. One-liners, done in the frugging style of the old Laugh-In go-go party, come fast, filthy and funny.

Tossing out necrophilia, pedophilia and incest gags, Bunny can proudly and rightfully claim “I’m sick.”

Admittedly, for those of us here in NOLA used to Varla and Bianca, Lady Bunny can seem fairly tame. And some of her targets are pretty easy ones: Cher, Katy Perry (“I licked a girl...”), Britney (“What do you call Britney Spears with a brain? Pregnant.”).

With an up-front warning that the show is “Rated X for X-tra Retarded”, though, it’s refreshingly clear that Bunny doesn’t take herself too seriously, informing us “Please don’t think I’d do anything so unprofessional as looking at the set list” as she looks right down at it.

But professional she is. Clearly fighting a nasty winter cold the night I saw her, she advised us “I sound and

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on the prowl

by Rory Wright Email: rorywrightinnola@hotmail.com Photos by Kriss Hoffman

Bearlesque Show & Fundraiser A Success

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n January 29th, somewhere between 75 and 100 people packed Tubby’s Golden Lantern to see the first Bearlesque drag show to be held there.

Five performers were on stage that night, four of them doing dirty drag, and one of them, the emcee of the evening, Miss Monique Michaels performed in traditional glamour drag. The show was bawdy and fun and moved quickly once it began. The show began with Monique doing a monologue and strip tease that got the crowd riled up and ready for the show.

The first entertainer of the evening, Nathan Martin, who is a member of the New Orleans Bear and Bear Trapper Social Club and also the producer of the event performing as Lucinda Bedroom; came out in a blue skirt with matching top, and classic hair do done up on his head and rocked out the first number lipsyncing for his life. When he started to strip the crowd went wild.

Next up was Hal Kloran who performed as Strawberry Absinthia in a full length 1960’s colored Mumu and dirty drag get up while lip-syncing a fierce number for the raucous crowd. By this time in the show it was standing room only.

Jimmy M, President of the New Orleans Bear and Bear Trapper Social Club, came out on stage as Shalita Buffet with bright red finger nails, an ever present lit cigarette and performed a great number. There was a bucket on stage and the audience enjoyed interacting with the performers by placing dollars down their cleavage or tucked into a garter if they could.

Next up was Josh Goodman performing as Lady Biscuit, in a short little number and with no beard or sideburns lady Biscuit, was a runner up for real drag performance that evening.

Then back on stage was Monique Michaels, she was a natural at handling the crowd and her comedy routines were bawdy, naughty and hilarious to witness, her performance was literally something you have to see live to really appreciate and she has so far agreed to do the event again next year.

For Strawberry Absynthia’s second number, she wore a hot pink wig, black fishnet stocking and a black tutu that came off as part of the strip.

Shalita Buffet performing a second number came off the stage and worked the floor. During the performance the tips kept flowing and a lot of admiration as well as dollars for the charity came from the crowd.

For Nathan Martin’s final number as Lucinda Bedroom, He wore his Sire Ursus Sash along with a woman’s denim jacket and leather top with a messy wig and a diamond Tiara in a performance that the audience whooped

and hollered at.

Monique did a final number to end the 90 minute show and the crowd cheered as all the performers came out for a final applause from the crowd and a group photo.

The fundraiser brought in $716 for the Food for Friends program, a division of the NO/AIDS Task Force, as well as donations of canned and non-perishable food items for the program. According to Nathan Martin, due to the success of this first event, there will be a second annual Bearlesque show next year before Mardi Gras. Also later this spring, a new Bearlesque Variety Show will be staged at JohnPaul’s Bar on Elysian Fields. That show will not be focused on drag but will be an all around entertainment with a talent show as part of the evening.

Anyone wanting to take part in the upcoming event is encouraged to contact the New Orleans Bear and Bear Trapper Social Club, which you can find online, and they will get your information to Nathan for that production.

pride: beyond the rainbow

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here are many exciting events coming up for Pride 2012 that we encourage you attend! Come out and meet the new Board Of Directors, ask questions, and have some input for this year’s Pride!

April 7, 7pm-midnight, is the Pride Grand Marshal Announcement Party and Gala. Come out to the Hotel Monteleone 2nd floor, at 214 Royal. All former Pride Grand Marshals will be presented, and the 2012 Grand Marshals will be announced! Advance tickets on sale now for $20 at www.prideneworleans.org. This gives you: entry to the gala, a concert by Amanda Shaw from 9pm-midnight, food, and raffle items with cash bar.

May 20, 6pm, is the Mr./Miss Pride Pageant 2012. Come on out to Harrah’s Hotel, 228 Poydras. There is a $25 contestant entry fee with $5 donation at the door.

Visit www.prideneworleans.org to: nominate someone for Pride Grand Marshal, enter the Pride Pageant, purchase tickets for Amanda Shaw/Grand Marshal Party, enter the Pride Parade, and donate to Pride 2012.

Make sure to “like” us on Facebook and follow us on twitter @NewOrleansPride.

Anyone interested in becoming a Pride sponsor, please email us at nolapridesponsorship@gmail.com For all other questions, please email nolapride@gmail.com.

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trodding the boards ...from 48 feel like shit but I’m gonna give you my all tonight.” And she did.

Amidst the hilarity, one brief line stood out, with Bunny’s innate flair dusting over the underlying pathos: “To be old and gay and a bottom in New York City is a miracle.”

Having been around since the 1980s, this ageless and intrepid performer continues to make lots of fun of herself (“Pity I have to shave my titties.”) and many others. Here’s to miracles.

Coming soon —Beginning March 21, A Streetcar Named Desire will be coming home to its Elysian Fields Avenue neighborhood courtesy of Southern Rep. Having lost its Canal Place home earlier this year, Southern Rep is relocating the production to Michalopoulos Studios, 527 Elysian Fields Avenue, the very same block where Tennessee Williams first imagined it.

Directed by Jason Kirkpatrick and presented in collaboration with InSideOut Productions, Streetcar will feature Southern Rep’s Artistic Director Aimée Hayes as Blanche Dubois, with InSideOut Productions’ Michael Aaron Santos as Stanley, Ashley Ricord as Stella, and Mike Harkins as Mitch, joined by Austin Alleman, Caitlyn Allison, Charles Buggage, Tracey Collins, Martin Covert, Monica Harris, Jelani Pitcher, Phil Karnell, Melaina Ricks, Dean Austin Wray, and James Yeargain.

“One of Streetcar’s primary themes is about re-invention: the Old South adapting to a post-World War II economy and after the loss of Belle Reve, Blanche DuBois leaving Laurel behind and hoping for a new life,” says Hayes. “Southern Rep, too, is re-inventing itself as we try to find a new

home for our next 25 years.”

One hour prior to each performance, there will be A Streetcar Named Desire-themed walking tour so audience members can discover where Stanley and Stella Kowalski lived, worked and played in 1947 New Orleans. Walking and talking with cocktails will be encouraged!

—From March 29 to April 21, Rising Shiners Theatre Company will be presenting David Caudle’s Visiting Hours, a tale of a lesbian couple’s longtime relationship that is threatened when their estranged adult son resurfaces, having been arrested for aggravated assault. Their struggle mirrors that of any couple, gay or straight, faced with the prospect that their child will never be “ok.”

Caudle’s The Sunken Living Room won the 2007 Ambie Award for Best Original Work when it was presented that year by Southern Rep. Visiting Hours will be directed by Ann Mahoney and will feature Becky Allen, Becki Davis, Tari Hohn, Jessie Terrebonne and Nick Thompson. It’ll be done at the Mid-City Theatre, 3540 Toulouse Street.

—Dubbed by Time Out NY as one of ten New York City women “every gay man should know and be obsessed with,” vocalist and comedic performance artist, Amber Martin premieres her award-winning chops at New Orleans’ own Allways Lounge, 2240 Saint Claude Avenue, on Friday, March 9.

In combination with new material created just for the vibrant NOLA audience, Martin will present pieces from her recent sold out NYC performance series, Amber Alert! an arousing, if not mind-altering hour of meticulously chosen musical and comedic vignettes from Amber’s strange and fascinating toy box of characters.

Amber Martin in Amber Alert!

New Orleans Muffuletta (generous helping of ham, salami, provolone and olive salad) @ Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.

Blending music, raunch, stories, movement, and acid-capped comedy with a pristine, multi-octave solo singing voice, Amber has seasoned her previous performances with rotating celebrity collaborators Justin Vivian Bond, John Cameron (Hedwig and Garlic Shrimp Pasta (jumbo the Angry Inch)Mitchell, Jake (“Scisshrimp with garlic butter sauce sor Sisters”) Shears and Karen Black, over angel hair pasta) @ Louisiana to name a few. In keeping with tradiPizza Kitchen, 95 French Mkt Pl tion, Amber has invited some very special guests for this debut performance.

—Out in Slidell, an original musical Widow Bride will be presented by the Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Dr. Slidell, from March 2 through March 18. The score is by John Giraud who was nominated for an Ambie Award last year as Music Director for his work Chicken Salad Croissant @ The on SLT’s Evita.

Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Widow Rampart St. Bride tells the story of a Gulf War widow and her family in the year 2000. It raises such questions as “How does she handle an angry teenage son, and a little girl who never knew her father?” and “How long should she mourn, and when is it okay to love again, if at all?”

For comfort and guidance, she reads her dead husband’s letters from the war and we see how a soldier’s family forges ahead and honors the sacrifice by living a life full of hope and love. Widow Bride also features a lesbian character, the widow’s sister, who finds a love match of her own.

Once we recover from Mardi Gras, there certainly will be lots of theater to keep us busy!

Next Ad Deadline

Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22

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chop chop

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

New Orleans Restaurant Guide 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy St., 561.1095, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM, is serving sliders, paninis, quesadillas, and more at the popular club in the French Quarter. Restaurant hours are 7pm til Wed.Sun. with extended Decadence hours.

Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM, is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes.

Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., 945.0742, TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. The chef has paid attention to detail and ingredient, and focused on a more contemporary menu at an even more affordable price point. Still the best food, but at even more unbelievable value! Serving 7 days 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm.

The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM is part coffee shop, part cafe, and part bakery.

"We take pride doing all our own baking, and you can order your next special treat from us," says owners Matt and Kevin. This little neighborhood place will fulfill your sweet tooth or both your breakfast or lunch cravings in a quiet setting while serving "desserts like Mom use to make". Located across the street by the Armstrong Park arch, the cafe is open Wed.-Sun. 7am - 3pm.

Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, 504.371.5074, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, is truly a fresh new restaurant with a 23-year history of serving New Orleans and guests from all over the world. Think of Fatoush as a combination coffee house, herbal teahouse, natural juice bar, and organic restaurant offering a unique selection of the richest and healthiest foods from around the world.

Handcrafted dishes that contain only the finest natural ingredients and a variety of cuisines and innovative taste offfer thrills that are appealing, exciting, and best of all, healthy. Open 7am10pm daily serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Place, 522.9500 or visit LouisianaPizzaKitchen.COM, is famous for its wood fired gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and appetizers.

Open 7 days from 11am-10pm.

Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746, features Italian

specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Open Mon.-Thurs. 5-10pm, Fri. Sun. 11am-10pm.

Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, is located in a beautiful renovated 1809 building offering a pleasant atmosphere, extensive wine list with 200 selections, and delicious food including soups, salads, appetizers, entrees and house made desserts that will delight any palate. Open daily at 4pm serving dinner Sun.-Thurs. 5-10:30pm, Fri.-Sat. 5-11pm.

Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET, voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year, is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night menu, the deli offers free delivery.

Taco Salad with Ground Beef, Tomatoes, Olives, Mozzarella, Red Onion and Sour Cream over Romaine Lettuce in a Flour Tortilla Shell with Smoked Paprika Vinaigrette @ The Country Club, 634 Louisa St.

Special Combo Pizza (pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, onions, mushrooms, green peppers & black olives with jalapenos & anchovies optional) @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.

Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings @ 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy

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Dusty DeBris, KCQ XIX Nicole & Frankie Fierce

Urban Earth's Roland Montealegre, KCQ XIX Nicole & SDGM XXXVI Julien Artressia

EGM XIII Darwin Reed, KCQ XVII Opal, EGM XIII Rhonda Roget & King Amon-Ra XLVII David Roget Petronius Co-Captains Bill McCarthy & Chad Brickley flank KCQ XIX Nicole

Athena Jewele & KCQ XIX Nicole

Micheal’s On The Park’s Mike Cookmeyer & KCQ XIX Nicole

Armeinius Capt. Bruce Orgeron, KCQ XIX Nicole & Mark Givens

Le Roundup’s Colette Ambrose, KCQ XIX Nicole & Greg

Bourbon Pub Parade GM Louis Sachs, KCQ XIX Nicole & Kat

Le Roundup’s Candise & Lee flank KCQ XIX Nicole

Bungalows’ Terry Woodard & Rick Kuzmyak flank KCQ XIX Nicole SDGM XXXVII Misael Rubio, KCQ XIX Nicole & Tara Rubio

Queenateenas’ Co-Capt. Marsha, KCQ XIX Nicole & Margarita Bergen

KCQ XIX Nicole & Lords of Leather Capt. Gary Vandeventer

Satyricon Capt. Tony Leggio & KCQ XIX Nicole

Queen Amon-Ra XLVII Sidney Williams, KCQ XIX Nicole & Mr. Cathy Fox

Bourbon Pub Parade office manager Chuck Kee & KCQ XIX Nicole

SDGM XXXVII Tiffany Alexander & KCQ XIX Nicole

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19th King Cake Queen Coronation of “The Samba Queen” Nicole DuBois ~ Ambush Mansion ~ New Orleans

King Armeinius XLIII Tim, KCQ XIX Nicole & guest

Wood Enterprises’ Gary Agee & KCQ XIX Nicole

“The Samba Queen” Nicole DuBois Reigns over 19th KCQ Coronation ~ Ambush Mansion ~ New Orleans

Armeinius’ Nick Weber & Rick Mirabelli flank KCQ XIX Nicole

Gary Marino, Jr., KCQ XIX Nicole & HCM’s Susanna Evangelista

SDGM XXXV Paloma & KCQ XIX Nicole

Mwindo’s Larry Jones, KCQ XIX Nicole & Marva Wright

KCQ XIX Nicole & Divas of Ninth Circle’s DL Broadway

Todd Darst & Mike Germac flank KCQ XIX Nicole

French Market Corp. Exe. Dir. Frank Pizzolato & KCQ XIX Nicole

KCQ XIX Nicole & New Orleans Human Relations Commission Exe. Dir. Larry Bagneris

Marsha’s stylist HCM’s Joey Polito III & Dewain Mandela flank KCQ XIX Nicole

Troy Powell, KCQ XIX Nicole & Louisiana State Museum Curator Wayne Phillips

Richard Bullock, KCQ XIX Nicole & Chris Wimberley Aubrey Sinclaire & KCQ XIX Nicole

Carl Mack Presents own Carl Mack & KCQ XIX Nicole

Petronius Queen XLIX Natasha Sinclaire, KCQ XIX Nicole, King Petronius L Jimmy deBlanc

KCQ XII Savanna DeLorean & KCQ XIX Nicole

KCQ IX & SDGM XXXIII Lisa Beaumann, KCQ XIX Nicole & SDGM XXXIV Marcus Martinez

Pat McArdle, KCQ XIX Nicole & Jacey Frew

Venus Santiago & KCQ XIX Nicole

Gay Easter Parade Line-up Chair Steve Patrick & KCQ XIX Nicole

KCQ XIX Nicole & Bebe

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King Cake Queen XIX Nicole DuBois Greets her Subjects @ Coronation ~ Ambush Mansion ~ New Orleans 54 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Feb. 14-27, 2012 • Of fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide • GayMar diGras.COM

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