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celebrazzi
emorial Day Weekend in Pensacola is chock full of hot beach parties, dance parties and entertainment spectacles including Splash Beach Fest featuring Wave Black Light Beach Bash on Pensacola Beach, and more in downtown Pensacola's famous Emerald City night club. Pictured are the all star DJ line-up and famous circuit party entertainers. Visit GayPensacola.COM, MemorialWeekendPensacola.COM and EmeraldCityPensacola.COM for more information.
etronius Co-Captain and Queen Petronius 50 Bootsie DeVille, Lady Facile, Countess C. Alice, Petronius Princess for Life Princesse Stephaney and Queen Petronius 49 Natasha Sinclair entertained for the Krewe of Petronius' Cinco de Mayo blowout at Michael’s On The Park in New Orleans. The festive evening benefited the krewe’s 52nd bal masque set for January 19, 2013. Visit KreweOfPetronius.ORG for additional information.
Bianca Del Rio
DJ Joe Gauthreaux
DJ Tim Pflueger
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on Dubay joins Gray, son of Pat Scully along with Koo Gaffney and Marty Curtin for the Sylvia Frank memorial brick installation by Steve Tregres at The Friendly Bar in New Orleans. Pat’s long time partner Sylvia’s brick emphasized her favorite saying, “My age is a number and mine is unlisted.” Sylvia’s brick joins other memorial bricks outside of The Friendly Bar including Nancy Rose, Alice Brady and Marcy Marcell. More memorial bricks are scheduled to be installed on Memorial Day, May 28th.
DJ Dewight Barkley
Lauren Mitchell
DJ Jay-R
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ew Krewe of Armeinius member Justin Lanoux joins secretary and host Freddie Guess, and Queen Armeinius 44 Nick Weber, who is also president of the krewe for the fab Glitter & Be Gay bash hosted at the Fredrick Guess Studio in New Orleans. The evening was filled with complimentary cocktails, tasty eats and loads of auctions, all benefiting the krewe’s 45th bal masque on February 9, 2013. For more on the krewe, visit KreweOfArmeinius.ORG.
DJ Robbie C.
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GAA Ballot/Fathers's Day edition out June 5th ~ DEADLINE: Tues., May 29th
the "official" dish
inside
by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
celebrazzi/nola, pensacola gay marriage international feature snap paparazzi/new orleans snap paparazzi/nola, metairie memorial wknd./pensacola under the gaydar ambush paparazzi/nola, metairie
Memorial Day Weekend Action Packed in Pensacola May 24th-28th
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he Gulf Coast's largest gay dance bar, Emerald City, has a fabulous lineup Thursday through Monday, May 24th-28th in downtown Pensacola. SPLASH Beach Fest runs Friday-Sunday at Park East, known as the gay beach on Pensacola Beach. And another big plus for the weekend is the Sunday performance of Fruit Fly starring Emmy Award-winning actor and comedian Leslie Jordan at the downtown Saenger Theater. Emerald City, 406 East Wright Street, kicks off with Thursday's Fore Play with DJ Dewight Barkley, Friday's Bitch Bingo with Bianca Del Rio and Lauren Mitchell, followed by Strip Down with DJ Robbie C. Saturday, it's Sweat with DJ Dewight Barkley, Sunday Friction with DJ Jay-R, and Monday Climax with DJ Dewight Barkley plus Memorial Day Drink & Drown. SPLASH Beach Fest will be held at Park East on Pensacola Beach Friday-Monday from noon until 7pm daily. The weekend festival will feature bar service, food and entertainment as well as a lineup of incredible DJs. All this and more under an 11,000 square foot pavilion. The daily festivities from noon until 7pm are open to the public with free admission for 18 and up. Bring your tents, cabanas, beach gear and leave the rest to Beach Fest personnel. They will have available a wide assortment of your favorite foods and snacks. It goes without saying that Beach Fest bars will be overflowing with ice cold cocktails, beer and other beverages. On Friday, DJ Dewight Barkley kicks off the SPLASH Beach Fest at 2pm with the Welcome Party. The weekend continues on Saturday at 2pm when DJ Jay-R turns up the heat for a sizzling afternoon of fun in the sun. DJ Tim Pflueger rounds out the weekend on Sunday at 2pm with Pensacola’s hottest tea dance ever! The highlight of the weekend will be Saturday night’s much anticipated WAVE dance party from 10pm until 4am featuring the international talent of DJ/Producer Joe Gauthreaux and direct from New York, the infamous Bianca Del Rio. The “glowing” theme for this year’s party is a Black Light Beach Bash. Tickets to WAVE can be purchased in advance for $40 at www.memorialweekendpensacola.com or at the Hampton Inn on the Beach Welcome Center on Friday & Saturday from noon until 6pm. Get more weekend information at www.memorialweekendpensacola.com or join facebook.com/ memorialweekendpensacola. Splash Beach Fest sponsors are Ambush Mag and JustCircuit.COM.
Fruit Fly is set for Sunday at 7:30pm at The Saenger Theater, 118 South Palafox Place. Emmy Awardwinning actor and comedian Leslie Jordan is to bring thought-provoking comedy to Pensacola Best known for appearances on the television series Will and Grace and the cult classic Sordid Lives, Jordan also has appeared on television shows ranging from Ugly Betty to Boston Legal. His film appearances include a role in the 2011 hit The Help. In addition, he is a celebrated playwright, stage actor and author of a book titled My Trip Down the Pink Carpet that spawned a successful oneman show. Described as hilarious and touching, Jordan’s show at the Saenger Theater explores the question, “Do gay men become their mothers?” and other riveting topics through a series of offbeat recollections. Tickets for Fruit Fly are $42, $47 or $52 per person. For tickets visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/ leslie-jordan-starring-in-fruit-fly.
New Orleans Has Tremendous Memorial Day Weekend Line-up this Year
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es, that's right, New Orleans has never had so many exciting entertainment options, all scheduled for Memorial Day Weekend this year. Not only will the weekend bring in hundreds of cowboys and cowgirls to the city for the 19th International Association of Gay/ Lesbian Country Western Dance Clubs, the 13th MASCARa Race weekend promises to raise thousands of dollars for the NOCCA Institute. The exciting line-up continues as great DJs, dance parties, pool parties, dancers, drag shows, country/western events, strip contests, bands, plays, cookouts, crawfish boils, and so much more is in store for the thousands of tourists in The Big Easy for this great holiday weekend. Don't forget to check out all of the ads in this issue to find just the right event for you, shopping and dining destinations, or hair salon, real
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pensacola/mobile paparazzi 31 classifieds 32 a community within communities 38 obituary 38 baton rouge 38 trodding the boards 40 chop chop/nola restaurant guide 43 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 46
Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com estate agents, gallery and shopping choices. Ambush has it all.
19th International Association of Gay/ Lesbian Country Western Dance Clubs Convention May 24th27th in New Orleans
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he 19th International Association of Gay/Lesbian Country Western Dance Clubs (IAGLCWDC) Convention is set for Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans May 24th through 27th. The New Orleans Hoedown is expected to attract over 25 clubs bringing in over 400 participants for the weekend, which does not include local participation. New Orleans own Big Easy Stompers in the host club this year. The convention begins on Thursday, May 24th with a bar crawl and dancing; Friday, May 25th with workshops, meetings, delegates meeting, socials, rehearsals, opening ceremonies, dancing, and exhibitions; Saturday, May 26th with workshops, competition, dancing, socials, rehearsals, and exhibitions; and Sunday May 27th with brunch, general membership meeting, and dance swap. IAGLCWDC is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to educating regarding LGBT country western dancing and to raising funds for charity and therefore, encourages members clubs, its members, and friends to contribute to these fundraising efforts by performing dance exhibitions at its hoedowns. For more information, visit OutHoeDown.COM.
13th Annual MASCARa Race Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans May 25th-28th
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ponsored by Wood Enterprises and Budweiser, the 13th annual MASCARa Race promises to be even bigger and better with events surrounding the race all weekend long May 25th-28th. All proceeds from the event benefits the NOCCA Institute which supports NOCCA Riverfront. All contestants are asked to get sponsors to donate money.
Since 2002 more than $90,000 has been raised for this very worthy charity. On Friday, May 25th, Good Friends [continued on 10]
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 504.357.8440 paulmelancon_ambushmag@yahoo.com THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Devin, Tony Leggio, Kyler Landry, Rev. Bill Terry, Rory Wright-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL Lauren Mitchell-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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the "official" dish ... from 8 Bar at the corner of St. Ann and Dauphine Streets, will hold the 12th Hamster Derby beginning at 5pm. One can bet on the races using Hamster Bucks ($1 gets you 10 Hamster Bucks) which can be purchased at the betting booth. These Hamster Bucks can be used later at the charity auction with prizes that have been donated by local retailers. Saturday, May 26th brings you to the Balcony Bar which will host the first annual Lube Wrestling at 9pm with a $5 donation. Winner receives half the door, the other half is donated to the NOCCA Institute. If you're interested in wrestling, please see DJ Myke. Sunday, May 27th, Rawhide, located at the corner of St. Ann and Burgundy, will host its annual Crawfish Boil at 5pm at $10 a plate. They brag that they make the best crawfish in the South. The New Orleans Bear & Bear Trapper Social Club hosts the 2nd MASCARa $5 Beer Bust at the same time. The race itself will be held Memorial Day, Monday, May 28th at Clover Grill promptly at 2pm. The gun sounds and the race begins with contestants gobbling down an order of chili cheese fries. When they finish this leg of the race they run across the street to Café Lafitte In Exile where they put on panty hose and high heel shoes, which have to be at least three inches (yes there is someone there with a ruler), with the help of their pit crew. Once they complete this task they revve their engines with a shot of peppermint schnapps and head for the third lap. It’s down Dumaine Street to Burgundy and on to the Rawhide. Here the pit crews help the contestants put on jewelry consisting of earrings, a bracelet, and two rings. After this, they cool their fueling system with a seven ounce Bud Light before heading to Good Friends, and lap four. At Good Friends make-up is applied, which consist of foundation, lips, eyes (including eye lashes) and painted fingernails. They then shift gears with a six ounce Separator, then retouch their make-up and proceed to lap five. Once they make their way up St. Ann Street to the Bourbon Pub, the pit crews fit them with breasts and a bra. They then grab a hat and purse from
the crew, and respark their plugs with a two ounce Mind Eraser. At lap six, in Oz, they are placed into a floor length evening gown and get their final refueling with a six ounce Daiquiri. They are now ready for the home stretch. They run down Bourbon Street to the finish line back at Clover Grill. Here they enter through the Dumaine Street door donning their wig and hat and exit through the Bourbon Street door. Here they are inspected to ensure that they have met all the requirements of each lap. There are three categories of competition: Fastest Time, Best Drag and Most Money Raised. Contestants will be awarded points in each category with a trophy being awarded in each category. The person who receives the most points will be declared Ms. Mascara 2012. The award ceremony will be held later that day, at 5pm at Rawhide, located at 740 Burgundy Street. To become a contestant or for more information, contact Ken Grandpre at 504.525.6724.
Bodacious Bras For A Cause Star-Studded Fundraiser Announced
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hat does an award-winning country singer/ songwriter, two James Beard award-winning chefs and a national news personality all have in common? Each shares a passionate commitment to wipe out cancer. Singer Martina McBride, Executive Chef Susan Spicer, Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse and NBC’s Today Show cohost Hoda Kotb are among the many personalities lending their creative talents for a great cause. Each has designed a spectacular piece of art using a ‘bra’ as their canvas. Bodacious Bras For A Cause is a fundraising initiative within one of the most exciting women’s weekends of the year, FestiGals. Bodacious Bras is designed to support the Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans. CAGNO is a non-profit United Way community impact partner whose mission includes education, outreach, research and patient support. “We are so honored that the FestiGals organization has created such a wonderful event
to support our work in the New Orleans community,” explains Tammy Swindle, Executive Director of CAGNO. “We are excited to have this opportunity to work with such a dynamic group of women.” FestiGals founder Diane Lyons walks the walk when it comes to giving back to her community. “While our event centers around fun, there is a much deeper purpose,” explains Lyons. “We’ve organized an amazing women’s weekend in New Orleans where attendees can relax and network and created a platform that draws attention to the many serious issues facing women battling cancer. This year, FestiGals has selected CAGNO as our beneficiary for the fundraising component of our event. We are grateful to Stein Mart Department Store for coming on-board as a sponsor.” Stein Mart is donating all of the bras that will be redesigned into unique works of art to be auctioned off. “We are very excited to help support FestiGals 2012 and the Bodacious Bras For A Cause event,” says Glori Katz, Stein Mart’s Senior Vice President Marketing and Advertising. “It is such a unique opportunity to be able showcase the decorated bras in our New Orleans area stores and we are delighted to be involved.” FestiGals 2012 is a unique getaway weekend designed by women for women. From June 22-24, FestiGals offers a combination of inspirational seminars, empowerment workshops and networking opportunities centered in one of the world’s most exciting travel destinations, New Orleans. In addition to McBride, Spicer, Lagasse and Kotb, other celebrities participating in Bodacious Bras For A Cause include: Gayle Benson - Philanthropist and
wife of New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson Margarita Bergen - New Orleans social columnist Gerri Valene & Rockin’ Dopsie Local mover and shaker Valene collaborates with Louisiana’s Zydeco King Karen Cauvin Eustis - A figurative sculptor based in New Orleans Darlene Guillot - Award-winning graphic artist Robert Guthrie - New Orleans artist Simon Hardeveld - Folk artist known for his whimsical signs James Michalopoulos - Celebrated New Orleans artist with an international brand; is best known for his distinct architectural renderings Kay Morrison - Organizational guru, entrepreneur and owner of The Occasional Wife New Orleans Museum of Art Chris Owens - New Orleans iconic entertainer, club owner and entrepreneur Lena Prima - Vocalist and daughter of the legendary Louis Prima Matt Rinard - Southern artist and gallery owner with national following Kate Rushton - 17-year-old artist from Gulfport, Mississippi Karen Swensen - New Orleans television news anchor James Vella - Internationally renowned glass artist Stephán Wangler - New Orleans artist who creates magic from recycled Mardi Gras beads Each bra creation may be viewed online at the FestiGals website. Bidding opens Friday, May 25th and continues through the FestiGals Weekend, June 22 through 24. To submit your bid or to purchase FestiGals tick[continued on 11]
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the "official" dish ...from 10 ets, go to www.festigals.org. You can also friend us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. The entire Bodacious Bra Collection will be on display at Hotel Monteleone during FestiGals
Weekend. Support CAGNO and their mission by bidding generously.
Gay Men Report High Rates of Hate-Motivated Physical Violence
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os Angeles – According to a new study from the Williams Institute, gay men face higher rates of hate-motivated physical violence than lesbians, bisexuals or other federally protected groups with high rates of hate crimes. This revela-
tion is especially troubling given prior research has shown that sexual orientation-motivated hate crimes tend to be more violent. “These findings suggest that ad[continued on 14]
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the "official" dish ...from 11 ditional research is needed to explore why gay men are more likely to experience and/or report physical victimization and crimes against their property,” said the study’s author, Rebecca L. Stotzer, Associate Professor and the Director of Distance Education at the University of Hawai‘i, Mnoa and Visiting Scholar at the Williams Institute. Among the research findings, 26 in 100,000 gay men reported being victims of hate-motivated crimes against persons, compared to 10 in 100,000 lesbians, 5 in 100,000 African Americans, and 5 in 100,000 Jewish Americans. Gay men also face the second highest risk of being victims of hate-motivated property crime (9 in 100,000 gay men). Further, reporting of such hate crimes is likely under represented since data reflect only those who report such crimes to local law enforcement, who then choose whether to report the data to the FBI. Although prior research has suggested that lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals, Jews, and African Americans experience similar levels of overall victimization, this study is the first to demonstrate that these groups do not experience the same types of hate crimes and that when lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals are considered separately, gay men experience more hate crimes. The full hate crimes study can be accessed at: http://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/research/violencecrime/comparison-hate-crime-rates-update/.
Mitt Romney Opposes Civil Unions for Gay and Lesbian Couples
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ashington – The Human Rights Campaign – the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization – is condemning Mitt Romney for being opposed to even the most basic forms of relationship recognition for gay and lesbian couples. On the same day as President Barack Obama historically announced his support for marriage equality and stressed that all people are deserving of dignity and respect, Romney told a Denver news station: “If a civil union is identical to marriage other than in the name, I don’t support that.” “It’s disheartening – but not at all surprising – that on this historic day, Mitt Romney is yet again bowing to the demands of his far-right anti-gay supporters and speaking out against not just marriage, but even civil unions,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “Today, we heard from President Obama a message of hope that made a compelling case for why committed, loving same-sex couples deserve the right to marry. Mitt Romney, on the other hand, is seeking to undo all of the hard-fought progress we’ve achieved over these past few years. He wants to codify discrimination against LGBT people into our Constitution via a federal marriage amendment, and he refuses to acknowledge the dignity and basic protections our families need.” Mitt Romney vehemently fought against marriage equality when it became law in Massachusetts and has petitioned Congress for a federal marriage amendment that would strip marriage equality from couples in six states and the District of Columbia. Romney has aligned himself closely – both through financial support and in his policies – with the rabidly anti-gay National Organization for Marriage (NOM). He even signed their extremist “marriage vow,” in which he promises to defend the Discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, vigorously push for a federal marriage amendment, and set up a McCarthy-like commission to investigate LGBT equality supporters. In addition to standing against relationship recognition, Romney has made it his sport to throw the LGBT community under the bus to woo support from groups
like NOM. While running against Ted Kennedy in 1994 for the U.S. Senate, Romney told the Bay State’s LGBT community he’d be better on gay rights than Kennedy. He vowed to sponsor a federal employment non-discrimination act and touted the “shared goal” of open military service. But Romney changed his tune on virtually all of the issues once he began pursuing the presidency. He opposed the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ He opposes federal protections for LGBT people in the workplace, now claiming that he feels an employment non-discrimination act would place an “undue burden” on employers. And during a previous campaign stop in South Carolina, he referred to LGBT families in Massachusetts with disgust, telling the crowd: “Some of them are even having children born to them.” Mitt Romney’s policies are rooted in the agendas of extremist anti-gay groups. Learn more about Romney’s disastrous track record on issues of LGBT equality at hrc.org/mittnmatch.
here! TV Nominated for Daytime Emmy Award
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os Angeles – here! TV has been honored by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences with a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for its documentary 30 Years From Here. The documentary, which examines the 30 years battle against HIV/AIDS, received a nomination in the Outstanding Special Class Special category. This is here! TV’s second nomination in this category for programming focusing on HIV/AIDS advocacy and awareness. here! TV was previously nominated in the Outstanding Special Class Special category in 2009 for The Ribbon of Hope Celebration. “30 Years From Here’s Daytime Emmy nomination is a sign of Here Media’s commitment to covering HIV and AIDS not just in the LGBT community but across the country and in all communities where people’s lives have been affected by this nondiscriminatory disease,” said Paul Colichman, Founder and CEO of Here Media and Executive Producer of the 30 Years From Here. “Here Media’s extensive portfolio continues to do its part in educating the public about the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Through its stories of advocacy found in the iconic Advocate brand, its widely distributed HIV Plus magazine, the human interest stories of those we have lost documented in OUT, and programming from here! TV, America’s only LGBT-dedicated cable network, the company will continue its work until HIV/AIDS is eradicated.” In fact, Diane Anderson-Minshall, editor in chief of HIV Plus magazine, added, “It’s still alarming that while the annual HIV infection
rate is falling in over 30 countries — 22 of them in the part of sub-Saharan Africa most affected by the AIDS pandemic — they have remained about the same since the 1990s in the U.S.. AIDS is the leading cause of death for African American women ages 25 to 34, the rate of deaths from AIDS is 10 times higher for black Americans than for whites, and ironically in Washington, D.C. — the city that’s home to the country’s biggest decision-makers about HIV policy and public health — the prevalence of HIV is higher than in the Congo, Ethiopia, Nigeria, or Rwanda. HIV Plus magazine celebrates this win but recognizes there’s so much more for us to do, but we’re committed to fighting the good fight for our readers and all HIV-positive Americans.” 30 Years From Here, directed by Josh Rosenzweig, examines the trials and tribulations the AIDS pandemic has created over the past 30 years. The documentary looks at how this nondiscriminatory disease has affected many lives over many years. The special features personal accounts from people who were there in the beginning and have seen both the sorrow over lives lost and the hope generated by advances in medical research. Activists, medical experts, and people who were on the ground describe their stories from the war on AIDS. Interviewees include playwright Terrence McNally; activist and ACT UP founder Larry Kramer; Marjorie Hill, CEO of Gay Men’s Health Crisis; physician Frank Spinelli; director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell; and radio talk show host Larry Flick. Paul Colichman and Stephen P. Jarchow served as Executive Producers for 30 Years From Here. Eric Feldman and Josh Rosenzweig produced the documentary. 30 Years From Here can currently be viewed on here! Online, here! TV’s premium online subscription video player found at http://premium.heretv.com/. The 39 th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be presented on June 23, 2012, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
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gay marriage President Obama Supports Marriage Equality; Historic Day for LGBT Families Culminates In Ringing Closing Bell @ New York Stock Exchange
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ashington DC - Family Equality Council, the national organization that connects, supports and represents the one million parents in this country who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) and the two million children they are raising, rejoiced May 9th to hear that President Barack Obama supports the freedom to marry for people who are LGBT. ”This is a historic day for families everywhere,” says Executive Director Jennifer Chrisler. “I am thrilled that the President has again demonstrated his firm commitment to the millions of tax paying Americans who want to show their love and commitment to each other through marriage. His support for our fundamental equality cannot be overstated.” The President’s remarks come after a long period of public “evolution” on the issue of marriage equality. Ms. Chrisler attributes the evolution to brave LGBT couples and parents who have been changing hearts and minds all over the United States. ”We have long understood, deep in our hearts, that love makes a family, but there is no disputing that marriage strengthens it,” she added. “For more than 30 years, a generation of parents has focused on raising their children to love their country, support their friends and neighbors and treat all people with respect. They have given these values to their children, but have been unable to provide them with simple legal and economic protections that other married couples count on for their kids. The President has promised a new
generation of children that their parents will be able to provide those protections and more importantly that their parents love and commitment to each other will be recognized, respected and valued. President Obama has fulfilled his promise of evolving his views on marriage and history will honor his leadership on extending fairness and freedom to all Americans.” This also happened on a day when LGBT families rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Never before have LGBT families been so visible, so united, and so full of hope for the future.
Facebook Explodes on Same-Sex Marriage
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nstead of giving more opinions from national organizations, Ambush is posting some of the comments on the subject from the people themselves. Tori Taylor: I am gonna say this and be done! I commend President Obama for supporting Gay Marriage. I think it is important and only right. To say that all men are equal in America is
laughable. But I do know this, I love my Husband, and that's what he is to me. He is not a partner, Lover, Roomate. He is to me what my Dad is to my Mother. I would kill for him, I would die for him, trust me I have felt this only once before, he watches over us now. Thanks Mr. Obama for your courage, but I dont need the Government to tell me that it is OK, I know that if God didn’t love us, he wouldn't have put this feeling in my heart! The Love that I have for him is as great as the love I feel for my mother, Grandmother and Sister. My God didnt make a mistake, and didnt plan for me to be alone. I Love you D! Tabatha Cleere: LOVE IS LOVE . There are people out there getting married for all the wrong reasons, but a same sex couple who have all the love in the world for each other cannot. I don’t see how ANYONE has the right to judge same sex couples. Imagine not being able to spend the rest of your life married to your one and only. I have plenty of gay friends and would love to see them have the same right as any straight person. It’s disgusting to know that the world as we know it has so many wrong and unforgivable things, but yet gay marriage is absurd. Its 2012 and it’s time people accept that gay marriage will be legal, so why fight it. Like I said, Love is Love..Lets make it happen. Rip Naquin: THANK YOU PRESIDENT OBAMA FOR SUPPORTING SAME-SEX MARRIAGE! As a gay couple celebrating our 39 anniversary in a monogamous loving relationship on August 17, 2012, I never thought I would see in my lifetime the President of the United States support same-sex marriage. Wow! It is difficult to see so many against same-sex marriage when we as gay couples see straight
couples constantly in divorce, having affairs, or not even getting married at all, even though they have children together. That is not saying anything against single parents, because many are alone due to matters beyond their control, and are wonderful parents to their lucky children. I believe practically 90% of the people I knew growing up have divorced once, if not multiple times. Why not let two men who have loved and supported each other for nearly 39 years marry? Isn’t that the only humane thing that many of us want in our lives is to marry the one and only one we truly love? Amanda Catron: Unsure why Obama is changing his mind about his stand point on gay marriage when he was against it. I don’t know if its a ploy to get re-elected or if he genuinely change his mind, no one can say for certain, they can only assume what they think to be the reason. I’m glad he has changed his opinion, but that’s what it really is an opinion and one persons opinion should not affect a mass group of people, especially when its concerning their own happiness. Why can’t gay couples be just as happy as straight couples? Don’t they deserve the same rights as everyone they are people too and love just the same. Love is gender-less. This is reminiscent of the animosity towards interracial marriage back through the decades, where people would bash or hate inter-racial couples because THEY viewed it as wrong. People even said it was morally wrong and even brought religion into that. Certain people need to open their eyes, fill their hearts with love instead of hate. Its not harming anyone. And every American has the right to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness its our inalienable rights!
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international feature First International US Tourism Ad Campaign Includes Gay Couple (Actors from New Orleans) & New Orleans Itself
B
rand USA, the new tourism marketing entity responsible for promoting the United States to world visitors, unveiled the USA’s first-ever comprehensive marketing campaign during a press conference at International Pow Wow, the largest U.S. travel trade show held recently in Los Angeles. The campaign showcases the diversity of experiences available in the United States in a fresh and unexpected light, inviting visitors to “Discover this land, like never before.” Rosanne Cash, daughter of American music legend Johnny Cash and Grammy award-winning singer/ songwriter, has composed an original song, “Land of Dreams,” to serve as the heart of the campaign. Initial advertisements feature Cash playing the song under New York’s Brooklyn Bridge, accompanied by musicians from around the world. As part of its marketing efforts, Brand USA will extend invitations to musical artists from around the world to come perform their music in their favorite U.S. cities and towns, profiling their trips and favorite things about the USA online and through social media. “Land of Dreams” is available for free download at DiscoverAmerica.com. New Orleans was featured prominently with a gay couple riding the St. Charles Street car in the ad film clip. According to Edward R. Cox who was in the film, "New Orleans is prominently featured in three segments of the historic first ever international commercial campaign by/for the United States! But wait, it get’s bettuh!! I was proud to be cast as one of the groundbreaking Gay Couple! My Vatican Lokey (married partner of 20 years) was cast with me but he was in New York at the time so the role went to the delightful Gideon Hodge. It’s being picked up by all the Gay news sources, websites, blogs and magazines and I just thought y’all might be interested in sharing this with your Ambush readers. Especially since New Orleans and Gay life here are featured so prominently.
Edward R. Cox & Gideon Hodge This is something to truly be proud of all the way around for our country, and New Orleans, and especially for Gay Americans to actually be included in such an historic campaign. (And it’s
just a little scary for some of these authors to be touting us as the “Face of Gay America to the World.” Our faces are appearing all over the internet right now thanks to all of this!)" Ambush asked if he would elaborate on the effect of Vatican not being able to do the part with him. "My Vatican was all set to be the other half of the gay couple for the ad with me until they pushed the date back a day or so due to inclement weather. He had a pre-booked trip to New York for a gig, so he had to fly out for his gig thus leaving the casting people to look through the audition tapes with the director of the commercial to pick someone who they felt would best work with me. Out of the group of actors who auditioned, they chose a most marvelous young man by the name of Gideon Hodge to “be my Vatican” for the commercial. I simply adore him! He is a lovely young man, a wonderful talent and it was easy to be in love with him onscreen as we filmed on the streetcar in New Orleans for our segment. In fact, so as not to overpower or offend him, I held back a lot, allowing him to present how far he would be comfortable going with me for the filming. Not really questioning or discussing his sexual preferences with him, I felt it best to respect and accept him as my lover for this shoot because he is such a gracious and loving soul. It certainly worked because we were indeed in love with one another as we worked onscreen and off that day with respect and dignity for one another and who’s to say that they were indeed a Gay Couple already in existence or a pair of Gay men just beginning a possible loving relationship? Is one of them possibly Bisexual? In my mind, we represent the LGBT Community. The story line is wide open to interpretation. The bottom line of course is that two Men are snuggling on the streetcar and enjoying each other and the moment. The comfort level was wonderful and snuggling with him was a true joy. I even stole a little kiss on the top of his head at one point which I considered 'a job perk'. Thankfully, I think it all worked beautifully, showing a pair of same sex people enjoying a ride on a streetcar in New Orleans together. A couple of Human Beings." Ambush - Did you think there would be this much reaction online
over the inclusion of a gay couple in an international ad campaign? "Actually, yes. Let’s face it, we live in a debating society these days with the way things are going around us. Everyone is hurt and fighting and struggling to be accepted as Human Beings on the face of this earth as everyone else. We all have our moments of joy and embracing and we all have our moments of 'strike back at those who strike at us'. This transfers to online bitchery and attacks and it’s lethal to our chances of moving forward. There’s been hundreds of comments online in blogs and news media sites where this ad has been shared and there’s always the America haters as well as the America lovers both trying to have their say and be heard about the piece and their takes on the shape of the country these days. Some are trashing the song, some are trashing the rainbow of races mixture throughout... but I can see and feel their pain for they are not far off from the truth. But there are grand positives which this campaign is trying to get across. We are indeed a mixture, a Gumbo if you will of people and types here in America. And we have incredible things to offer to our people here as well as across the world.
Vatican Lokey & Edward R. Cox 20-Year Married Partners People here need to step back and embrace that which is truly unique and great about our country and stop trying to destroy it with bitterness and agita. “Work with, Not at” as I always say. However, it’s just now starting to catch on with some of the major Gay media, not all for some odd reason as this historic tourism campaign that includes Gays is indeed important enough to get out to the entire American Gay Community. If we embrace this here at home, Gay Communities across the globe will follow suit as a source of Pride and support. The positive approach to this campaign including a Gay presence in it is (and once again I am speaking personally and not as an official spokesperson in any capacity)
so wonderful and greatly appreciated and I pray that it continues to be picked up by other major Gay Media and Sources. I’d like to think that those who are against it might see it again soon in a slightly more positive light and embrace it for what it is... The first ever American International Tourism Commercial, that just so happens to have also included by choice, a Gay couple. That’s totally something that did not really need to be included in it at all... but yet it was, and from the very start of the creative process for it. Yes, The Gay presence in the commercial was wanted all along." Brand USA, which created the campaign in partnership with JWT, the organization’s agency of record, will employ a fully integrated marketing strategy, using a mix of 60-, 20- and 15second television spots, as well as digital, billboard and print advertisements and a robust online presence and social media strategy to reach potential visitors. Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages will showcase country specific promotions and engagements and the newly re-launched website DiscoverAmerica.com will act as visitors’ information portal for trip planning. “Other countries around the world have prioritized tourism efforts for years, yet in the 236 years since the United States of America was founded, this country has never had a nationally coordinated effort dedicated to inviting travelers to come visit us,” said Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman of Brand USA’s Board of Directors. “That changes today. This new campaign will tap into an incredibly valuable economic resource – the millions of visitors who want to experience all that our great country has to offer.” The first wave of advertising launched in the United Kingdom, Japan and Canada, with a budget of $12.3 million for the first three months. A second wave will follow in Brazil and South Korea, with several other markets to follow. Brand USA was created as a result of the U.S. Travel Promotion Act, federal legislation passed in March 2010 which established a public-private partnership between the travel industry and the U.S. government dedicated to increasing international visitation to the U.S. through marketing and promotional efforts to drive job creation and spur economic growth. According to the U.S. Travel Association, the average overseas visitor to the United States spends $4,000 per trip, and 35 incremental overseas visitors supports one new U.S. job. Visit HRC.ORG and see Gay-Inclusive Tourism Campaign Markets US to the World.
N e x t De a d l i n e : T u e s d a y, M a y 2 9 t h Ca l l 5 0 4 .5 2 2 .8 0 4 9
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The party people
Amon-Ra Pres. Deja & Petronius Co-Capt. Bootsie Channing & host Freddie Guess
Petronius Princess for Life Stephaney & Satyricon Capt. Señorita Tony
Amon-Ra Capt. Mike (aka Opal Masters) & Jeff
The Señorita Frito Banditos (aka the Lady Frito Thieves) Gidget, Tal & Beaux
Satyricon’s Kent & Brent Missy May, Opal, Señorita Larry & Easter Grand Marshal Darwin
Lady Facile performs Petronius’ Prince Royale Lee Worrells & Countess C. Alice
Queen Armeinius 44 Nick & partner Rick
Amon-Ra Pres. Leonard & Jim, aka The VueMays
Pride Chair Chris & Petronius’ Princesse Stephaney
snap paparazzi
Petronius’ Natasha joins Amon-Ra Bunny Reject Frankie Fierce
The Glitter & Be Gay Prince & Princess winners to be presented @ the Armeinius Ball
Tim & Craig
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Krewe of Armeinius’ Glitter & Be Gay @ Fredrick Guess Studio ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio
Krewe of Petronius’ Cinco de Mayo @ Micheal's on the Park ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce, Tony Leggio
Lady Facile & Co-Capt. Bootsie DeVille
Former Queen Petronius Natasha Sinclair
Albert, Bruce & Queen Armeinius 44 Nick
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The cast of Greater Tuna, Jeff Mallon & D. Michael Stevens, in for Petronius’ Pingo @ Kajun’s Pub
Nick & Albert @ CAC for Satyricon’s opening of Shirley Valentine New Orleans Pride opening of Greater Tuna @ Shadowbox Theatre
The Zoo To Do @ Audubon Zoo
Señor Thor & Rawhide manager Joe celebrate Cinco de Mayo Señors Al & Dwain do Cinco de Mayo @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile
Lafitte’s DJ Myke & Easter Grand Marshal Darwin in for Lafitte’s Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo @ Oz
Frankie & John @ 4 Seasons' Cinco de Mayo in Metairie
Duane & DJ E do Cinco de Mayo on the patio @ 4 Seasons in Metairie
Cody & Jeff join Pride opening of Greater Tuna
snap paparazzi
Society Page’s Orlando Aloe joins Zoo To Do @ Audubon Park
Cinco de Mayo brings Persana & Misti together @ Oz Miss Billy does a return guest spot in Drag Survivor @ Oz
Cat & Misti in for Petronius’ Pingo Night @ Kajun’s Pub
Brad & Kevin @ Kajun’s Pub for Petronius’ Pingo Night
Julien Artressia & friend @ Audubon Park for Zoo To Do
Cinco de Mayo @ Crawling in the Woods
Lisa Beaumann, Jessica Hare, MC Persana Shoulders, Moanalot Fontaine & Dusty Debris in Oz’s Wednesday show night
22 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 22-J une 4, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec
Painting the Town ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce, Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon
Ted & Queen Satyricon 10 Stephen @ Satyricon’s opening of Shirley Valentine @ CAC
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Book of the Month: In Exile
T
he history of New Orleans has always held an interest to me, from its origins to present day. With such a storied past, the Crescent City and her denizens always proves to be a fascinating read. Add to this an in-depth look chronicling the gay community from its beginning to today and you have an enjoyable novel that is both educational and entertaining. In Exile: The History and Lore Surrounding New Orleans Gay Culture and Its Oldest Gay Bar blends factual accounts of the city’s happenings with recollections of gay men and women. These people provide a beautifully laid out narrative of how gay New Orleans evolved through the twentieth century. The authors are characters themselves and have a keen insight on the subject matter. Frank Perez is a local who currently resides in the French Quarter and as he describes himself is a “barfly” at Lafitte’s. I can attest to this since I see him every time I am there. Jeffrey Palmquist may hail from South Dakota, but he is a New Orleanian through and through. He also lives in the French Quarter and is a bartender at Café Lafitte’s in Exile.
an insider’s glimpse on what gay life was like before Stonewall and how it emerged to be what it currently has become. I have to admit, it was also kind of cool knowing many of the people interviewed for the book and reading their tales. Perez and Palmquist have gone to great lengths to provide readers with a comprehensive novel that may focus on the oldest gay bar in the city, but goes way beyond that. It gives us an unparalleled look into our roots, our history and our lives. Definitely make it a point to read In Exile, it is an absorbing book that you will find hard to put down. As always you can find In Exile online or at our local LGBT bookstore FAB, located at 600 Frenchman Street.
Let’s Play Bingo
T
he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is presenting Let’s Make A Wheel of Bingo. It is nothing like you have ever seen before. It is part game show, part theatrical experience and all fun. Todd Shaffer stars in the raunchiest adult game show this side of Eastabutchy Mississippi. There will be lots of fabulous prize give-aways with a custom design wig by Brian Peterson as the Grand Prize! There is a $10 donation at the door and all proceeds benefit the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon. This definitely ain’t your mama’s bingo. For more information, call 504.415.6476.
On The Road to Equality
T
he Human Rights Campaign presents its 20th annual Louisiana Gala Dinner on Saturday, June 2, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency at 6 pm. This year’s extravaganza features special guests Joan Rivers, Jane Velez Mitchell and CeCe Peniston. Mary Griggs is the 2012 Equality Award recipient. General Tickets are $200; $85 for Federal Club Members and $125 for students. To order tickets go to www.hrc.org/louisianadinner or call 1.800.494.8497. I think this novel should be a must read on every gay person’s list; not only does it tell the struggles faced by our previous generations, but it is an intimate memoir of our community and how it played a major role in shaping the city. The interviews range from the funny and lighthearted to the shocking and heart wrenching. I could not imagine experiencing such horrors as the onset of AIDS and the devastating fire at the Upstairs Lounge. Readers get is
The 5th Annual Miss AIDS Awareness Pageant
T
he U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that around 1.1 million adults and adolescents are living with HIV in the USA, including those not yet diagnosed, and those who have already progressed to AIDS. The Southeast Louisiana AIDS Awareness organization (SELAA) is working to edu-
cate individuals on HIV by increasing awareness with youth and young adults. SELAA also provides an outlet for anyone, especially teens, who are dealing with bullying and other LGBT topics. SELAA is working to produce “workshops” that can be used in the school systems on the subjects of bullying and discrimination. The Miss AIDS Awareness Pageant is designed to be a fun and innovative approach to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in the New Orleans area. All profits will go to education and support in Southeast Louisiana. Who will be crowned Miss AIDS Awareness? To find out, come out to Manning’s Restaurant on Saturday, June 2nd. The first place winner receives $200 in cash and the runner up gets $75. There is a $40 entry fee for contestants. The show begins at 9pm. DJ P and Rikki Gee are your hosts for the evening. For more information or to sign up to compete, go to www.geteducatedlouisiana.org.
through the sadness. And in New Orleans there is no better way to pay homage to a person than to rejoice in what he meant to us, and that means we have a party (and a drag show). A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held for Stephen D. Murrell (September 16, 1970 - April 29, 2012) on Saturday, June 2nd at the Friendly Bar, New Orleans. The event will begin at 4pm with a memorial brick ceremony and balloon release. A reception will follow with a drag show starring Elizabeth Bouvier, Gizelle Bouvier, Lauren Brown, Rhonda Roget, Amanda Straddle, and Tittie Toulouse. Proceeds from the show will be donated to the family to assist with funeral expenses.
Adult Swim Is Back!
T
he W New Orleans is returning to it’s fashionable, edgy roots by opening it’s rooftop pool every Sunday this summer, beginning with a launch party on Sunday June 3rd. This summer, W New Orleans on Poydras Street becomes the envy of our New York sister properties as it's models strut their bodies throughout the crowd and on the runway. There will be multiple swimwear runway shows between 6 – 8pm. There will be a DJ and the hotel’s expert mixologists making some delectable libations. The pool party starts at 1pm. There are also cabanas with bottle service if you request, and special room rates in case you want to continue your party later in the night.
Are You Ready To Get Decadent
S
outhern Decadence is just around the corner, are you ready? Come and join current Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Tiffany Alexander and Misael Rubio as they announce their choices for this year, SDGMs 38, on Tuesday, June 5th upstairs at Oz. The party is from 9pm to midnight. Enjoy cocktails and fabulous hors d’oeuvres furnished by Eat New Orleans and Vacherie Restaurant. I cannot wait to see who it is this year?
Good-bye Stephen
I
t is always upsetting when we lose someone, especially at a young age. When I found out about Stephen Murrell’s death I was shocked. He was a funny and loving man who was an unrelenting supporter of this city and everyone in it. My heart goes out to his family, but in our mourning, somehow we find a way to work
Party Down
I
have to admit this issue of Party Down may be slightly shorter than normal since my real job had me working long hours recently. Don’t you hate when work gets in the way of an active social life, what is a popular girl to do. Answer is work, since that social life does not come cheap. But I definitely managed to make the most of the parties I did attend. Let’s start with the first weekend in May; Friday was one of the premier social parties of the year, the Zoo To Do at the Audubon Zoo. If you have never been to this party, it is a wonderful soiree featuring the best restaurants in the city, free flowing cocktails of every kind, great music, a lively auction and of course a magical setting as you are able to party under majestic live oaks as the call of the animals echo through the night. My friend Nick and I decided to make the evening more special, so we hired a driver to pick us and our guests up and bring us to the event. Of course we had chilled champagne for the ride, would hate to get parched. Once there I had a blast, surrounded by all my friends and drinking and dancing the night away. The main entertainment was The Family Stone who are known for their hit records Dance to the Music and Everyday People. It seemed like the entire social network of the city was in attendance. The Zoo To Do is considered the largest non-medical fundraiser in the United States and has been voted as the number one charity event by Gambit several years running. And the gay community was well represented at the event, I spotted the ever so lovely 2010 Southern Decadence Grand Marshal 36 Julian [continued on 36]
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Geno & Ambush’s Kyler @ Good Friends Karaoke
Dusty, Mona & Sheaman celebrate Mona’s birthday @ Oz
One of the hot dancers with Napoleon’s Itch bar baron Julian
ambush
papar azzi
Ambush’s Devin & Jeff DeRouen join the Pride benefit @ Club LAX
Kocktail Karaoke @ Good Friends Bar
Karli Essex & Chris Baldassaro Essex join Pride benefit @ Club LAX
Cafe Lafitte in Exile DJ Chris Jager
Napoleon’s Itch bartender with bar baron Chuck
Larry, Andy, Ambush's Paul & Martissue celebrate @ Lafitte’s Jeff & Pride Chair Summer Rayne @ Bourbon Pub Parade for La Familia
Belting one out @ Good Friends Kocktail Karaoke
Miss Gay Pride Monica SynclaireKennedy in the Pride benefit @ Club LAX
Good Friends Kocktail Karaoke
Bar Baron Toby Lefort & Todd Budd join Pride benefit @ Club LAX in Metairie
Fatoush Restaurant’s Fatma poses with her chefs
Bartender Tanner @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile Bartender Richard ready for Friday’s 50¢ Shrimp Cocktail special @ Rawhide
Angela Cross does Cinco de Mayo @ 4 Seasons
Jeff with hot men at Kajun’s Pub
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Pride, Karaoke, Club Action ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Devin, Frankie Fierce, Kyler Landry, Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon
Adonis De’ Orleans, Misti Ates, Jasmine Essex, Monique Michaels & Pride GM Mai Ling do the Pride benefit @ Club LAX
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pensacola papar azzi
Robert, Gina, Blake & Miss Cie celebrate Gay Pride Emerald City’s Cinco de Mayo Party
Dwayne & Jay hanging out @ Emerald City
Hanging out @ Emerald City
Zachary hanging out on the patio @ Emerald City Nolan & Justen, what wonderful smiles
Punk never looked so good @ Emerald City
The beautiful Miss Florida Amy DeMilo performs @ B-Bob’s
Zack found him a new friend from Kentucky @ Emerald City
Teressa DelaCroy hanging out with her boys on the patio @ Emerald City
We are gonna miss Jeffery, good luck in Tampa
Amber Douglas performing @ B-Bob’s for Gay Pride Emerald City’s Cinco de Mayo Party Emerald City’s Cinco de Mayo Party
Monica Chris, Dwight & Lauren representing Emerald City
mobile
papar azzi
Emerald City’s Cinco de Mayo Party
Emerald City’s Cinco de Mayo Party
The beautiful dancing talent of Samore St. James @ B-Bob’s
The beautiful & hypnotic Taylor Heart performing @ B-Bob’s
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Pride, Birthdays, Shows ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cie Anne & John
Hanging, Smiles, Parties ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell
Happy Birthday, John, We Love YOU!
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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 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Rd., 242.9491, SplashBR.COM
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book stores New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700
cable shows RT PA M A R
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antiques
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 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
Houma LA [985] THE DRAMA CLUB, 126 N. Hollywood, 580.2582 Lafayette, LA [337] JULES DOWNTOWN, 533 Jefferson, 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,
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., 1526 Magazine, 566.1833 [is1112]
circuit/events May 24 - 27, Memorial Day Weekend, International Gay Lesbian Country Western Dance Club Convention, Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel, New Orleans, LA benefiting NO/AIDS Task Force Food for Friends, OutHoedown.COM May 25-28 Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM Aug. 29-Sept. 3, 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, 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 Feb. 8-12, 2013, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, March 31, 2013, 14th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM
employment New Orleans, LA [504] HELP WANTED - Cashier/backup needed at Club New Orleans. Drug test required. Submit application at 515 Toulouse St.
florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
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] 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
hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465
insurance New Orleans, LA [504] ALLSTATE: Buckwalter Insurance Group LLC, 2002 20th St., Kenner, 504.469.4800;101 Schexnayder Ln., Destrehan, 985.764.3833 LIFE INSURANCE: As an independent agent, I can shop around and find you the best rate to fit your budget. Call Terry today at 504.444.1120. [is1412]
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lodging/accommodations
504.458.5996 / website righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is2612]
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. [0712] 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. [0812] 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. MAISON DE MACARTY BED & BREAKFAST, 3820 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.267.1564, MaisonMacarty.COM, E-mail us at kurt@maisonmacarty.com. Luxury gay owned and operated bed and breakfast. 8 bedrooms with ensuite baths, pool, sun deck and beautiful courtyard. Sleep, eat and play at Maison de Macarty. Book it now! 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. [0113] 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
media
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
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,
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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, 1001 South Broad St., Suite 115, New Orleans, LA 70125, 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, 2443 Halsey Ave., New Orleans, LA 70114, 504.906.7990 Todd J. Blauvelt / Secretary,
krewe.of.satyricon@gmail.com, 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; 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. ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org 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
pets New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455
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
photography New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com
plumbers 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
real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] LATTER & BLUM, Agent Steve Richards, 712 Rue D’Orleans @ Rue Royal, Cell: 258.1800, 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
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 Organic Banana, 1100 N. Peters, Bay 27, 587.7903 Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930 Prime, 3162 Dauphine, opening soon Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET
retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 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 SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip, 561.8167
spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com
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
travel New Orleans, LA [504] Adventures Actually, Kate Alexander, 220.5503, AdventuresActually.COM
websites OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, GayMardiGras.COM
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under the gaydar ...from 26 Artressia and Society Page’s Orlando Aloe who managed one of the bars at the event. And the VIP area this year was a major hit. After the party, we all got into our car and headed to the French Quarter where we went to Oz and met up with the ever so vivacious Frankie Fierce and a new group of friends who now joined our already cocktailed crew for an evening of dancing till the wee hours of the morning. Now that is what I call a fun night. On Saturday after recovering from a minor hangover, I ushered in two of my favorite holidays Cinco De Mayo and the Kentucky Derby. I went to brunch with my mom early at Nacho Mama’s which was delicious and slightly crowded. Nothing says good morning like tequila. Then we did a spot of shopping, placed some derby bets at the Off Track betting parlor and then returned home. After bidding farewell to mom, I maneuvered into the Quarter, where I went to an impromptu Cinco/ Derby party at the Haus of Debris. It may have been a small gathering but it was not short on the fun. Dusty and Frankie made a lovely Mexican spread while Derrick and I had cocktail duty, whipping up specialty margaritas. What a wonderful and relaxing way to spend an afternoon, and my horse won. Can you imagine me betting on a stallion named I’ll Have Another? Of course, it was destined to win. After the party, I ran back to my house and did a quick change and got ready for the other stops I had on my schedule. Next up I went to the Krewe of Petronius’ Cinco De Mayo event at Michael's On The Park. As always, it was a greatly attended fete complete with a taco bar and themed drag show. I was now in full spirit of the holiday, so I bounced around the Quarter for a few hot minutes before going to the Pub for Johnny Passion’s La Familia show. I was actually one of the performers in the line-up, and all of my proceeds went to New Orleans Pride. Since I am not really a drag queen (although my alter ego Antoinette may disagree) I decided to go in a total different direction with my song. So I called some very hot men and women to the stage and they undressed while I performed the song Sex Bomb by Tom Jones. Half naked people moving suggestively to the beat of a sensual song, now that is what I call entertainment. After the Pub, all of us went to Oz where we met up once again with another group and had another enjoyable night of camaraderie and dancing. What I always enjoy about these nights is meeting new people and getting to know others better. Sunday, I have done something I haven’t done in a long time, laid my butt on my couch and never moved from it all day. Who knew that a day of laziness and watching movies could be so
enjoyable? I need to try that out more. Also, I needed to get ready for my trip the following day to Memphis on business. (Read more about those exploits in Ambush on the Road). I came back from my small jaunt to Tennessee on Wednesday afternoon and immediately had to get ready for the opening performance of Shirley Valentine at the Contemporary Arts Center. The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon put on the event which had a crowded house. The play was phenomenal. Ricky Graham was mesmerizing as he made this character come to vivid life. The following night, I attended another opening performance for Greater Tuna at the Shadowbox Theatre. This was sponsored by New Orleans Pride and the show was a funny, fast paced romp. Jeff Mallon (aka Elizabeth Bouvier) and Voice of Pride Winner 2011 Derrick Stevens were excellent in their roles. On Saturday, I began my night with Petronius’ monthly Pingo Game at Kajun’s Pub. It is always fun to play what I like to call f***ed up Bingo. I had a great time, especially since I won a game. After the game, I caught a ride into the Quarter with the divalicious Princesse Stephaney to the next event, the Krewe of Armeinius’ Glitter and Be Gay. Now each krewe I find has an event or two that I look forward to attending every year. This is by far one of my favorite events Armeinius throws every year. I love their silent auction and this year was no different. I got some great deals on artwork, gift baskets and other sundry items. It was held at Fredrick Guess Studio and it was just a banner evening with some great folks, nice cuisine and bartenders who knew how to pour heavy. I gauge a great party when I come away meeting some new and interesting people and this event supplied me with that opportunity. When the event was over, me and several friends went for a little tour of the Quarter visiting Oz, Napoleon’s Itch and the Ballet (which is what they affectionately refer to as The Corner Pocket). So all you evil queens who look down your nose at those of us who go to the CP, get a life, it is the right mixture of frivolity and naughtiness all rolled up into one. I left my friends and journeyed back to the Marigny where I met my friend Jeff at Kajun’s Pub. Okay, let me let all you gays know a hidden secret. Kajun’s Pub on a Saturday is filled with hot college guys and girls. Now yes they may be straight, but they are great eye candy and fyi, I lucked out and met a gaggle of gays who were there visiting some friends at Tulane. Who knew, the place was a zoo of pretty people. So I played with the straights for a hot minute before calling it a night. On Sunday, my friends Beaux, Frankie and my new friend (the hot Tal) who is going to be the newest Ambush “It” boy went to Sunday “dinter” at Domenica in the Roosevelt Hotel.
Sunday “Dinter” is a group of gay guys who get together every week and do special dinners at peoples houses normally or restaurants. This week it was not big, but I have been some weeks when there are a dozen or more people in attendance. Here is something I did not know and for all those queens on a budget this is perfect. Every day from 5pm to 6pm Domenica runs a special where it is half price cocktails and six dollar pizzas. Talk about a great deal. I highly recommend doing it and you can do a lot of damage in one hour. Afterwards, I came home and crashed; several martinis and Ramos Gin Fizzes can do a girl in. Sorry this issue was not so long, but I promise I will make it up to you next time; my social calendar is booking up fast.
Ambush on The Road
I
love road trips, whether for pleasure or work, I find them a relaxing as well as a great way to see some lesser known parts of our fair country. Recently, I had to drive to Memphis, Tennessee to give a speech to the Memphis Chapter of the National Association of Catering Executives. I was asked to speak to their group to talk about the national convention that will be in New Orleans in July. So on Monday morning, Contessa Christine Breaux and I loaded her car and we were off to the birthplace of Rock and Roll. Memphis is actually quite a nice drive from New Orleans. On the way there, we stopped in Jackson, Mississippi for lunch at the Fairview Inn, which is where they filmed the movie The Help. It is now a Bed and Breakfast and a throwback to the old southern days. The main house is exquisite. We entered the gorgeous mansion and were escorted to the dining area. When we walked in, my eyes lit up; there were dozens of tables of older ladies dressed to the nines playing bridge. OMG, it was just like the movies. I never knew that bridge clubs still existed. It was so cool. We were seated at this prominent table in Sophia’s Restaurant where we had just a delightful lunch of soup, salad and mint juleps. Sorry, I had to drink a few, even though it was very touristy of me. I highly recommend dining there for lunch not only because of the food, but the atmosphere is way fun. And, hopefully you can catch a bridge tournament while you are there. What was so hysterical was that every woman at some point of our lunch made their way into the dining room to check us out and see who we were. I love little Southern towns. Gossip rules. We got back on the road and were in Memphis in no time. We checked into the Madison Hotel, which is an upscale boutique hotel on the riverfront in downtown. My room was luxuriously spacious and the view was divine. We
met up with some of our Memphis friends for dinner at Itta Bena; what a marvelous treat. Itta Bena, located on the third floor of BB Kings Blues Club Memphis, is tucked away and worlds apart from Beale Street. The restaurant is a swanky, secret getaway where the lights are low, the vibe is low-key, in fact, you have to go up a back stairway to get to it. The menu focuses on contemporary Southern cuisine with a Delta influence. Enjoy such delights as the renowned she-crab soup or sautéed shrimp over sweet potato Mississippi stone ground grits. Everything on the menu we tried that night was outstanding. After dinner, Christine and I did a stroll down Beale Street to see the sights. Even though it is a very eclectic and musically rich area, it still cannot hold a candle to Bourbon Street. The following day, we toured an event facility in the morning to get some ideas of how things are done in their city. After, we had some time to spare before the evening’s festivities, so we spent it the only way we knew how, we went to Graceland. Now this was my third time there and Christine’s first, and every time I go, I love it even more. I do not care what anyone says, Elvis Presley was a legend and one truly talented man. We had lunch there at the Chrome Grille in a hollowed out old Thunderbird and then toured his mansion. Once we had out fill of the King, we returned back to the hotel to get ready. The reception was held on the rooftop of the Madison right around sunset and it was truly a spectacular night, having a cocktail party followed by a seated dinner in an elegant setting on a rooftop overlooking the city on one side and the Mississippi River on the other is breathtaking. The people there were lovely and my speech went off very well. I am very excited to hear that many of them will be traveling to our fair city for the conference in July. After dinner a few of us went downstairs to the hotel’s top rated restaurant/bar Eighty Three for more cocktails. Now I have to admit, that is when the real party began. I ended up meeting a lawyer with the prettiest eyes I had ever seen who joined our group. We had jalapeno margaritas, along with many other specialty drinks and a few unknown shots. The sous chef Steph was our host for the night and he kept us laughing and well sauced. And it helped that he was beyond hot with tattoos in all the right places. So after the restaurant closed, this fabulous girl who is now my new BFF in Memphis named Lally, Steph and lawyer boy (okay, so I forgot his name) went in search of more fun and we found it. We bar hopped at several places before ending back up in Steph’s Downtown loft condo for nightcaps. The re[continued on 38]
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a community within communities
by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org
Memorial Day!
B
IG BLOWOUT MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND SALE! School is out and summer is setting in with serious intent. Thermostats are being reset, grass needs to be cut more regularly, and winter annuals are starting to get “leggy.” Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest are over. We are still sorting out the results of the fabulous Dodwell Extravaganza and yes, hurricane season is upon. It’s Memorial Day Weekend! In Flanders Fields the poppies blow Between the crosses row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. When I was a young one, veterans and Veteran’s groups would sell poppies to raise funds for the victims of wartime. I suppose like a lot of things this is a lost symbol of sacrifice. For my
father Memorial Day was “Armistice Day” which followed the veterans of The Great War. When 9-11 hit our shores there was much ado about “Just War Theory” which was ironically developed by St. Augustine of Hippo. The challenge was this “is there any justification for war within the Christian faith?” Augustine said yes with qualifications. So long as men and women strive to serve themselves instead of others there will be war. So long as nations seek to profit and use other nations for their own national will there will be wars. So long as we lust for what others have there will be wars. Regrettably it seems to be part of the human condition. Yet, somehow humans sometimes rise above all manner of things when faced with the challenges of war. I say this to in no way glorify the act of war but rather to simply say that men and women who serve the armies of war lords, ours or theirs, often rise above the muck and mire of destruction and cling dearly to life and to comradeship. Even in unjust wars many a soldier or
sailor will tell you I am fighting for the safety of my shipmate. This sort of kinship is the very kinship that binds together individuals and indeed communities. It is the willingness to sacrifice one’s self for the safety of others. “Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one’s life for his friends”, John 15:13. It is Memorial Day and it is a day for remembering that somewhere someone is and has laid down their life for you and for me. It is Memorial Day the day of memories for fallen men and women who would keep their shipmate safe as well as our way of life often in spite of the cause of the war or its justification. We are not in a war in our city but we are at risk. It is by the power of our spiritual natures that we can emulate those men and women who served their nation and each other. Are you; am I, willing to sacrifice for our friend? Even more are you, am I, willing to sacrifice for the unknown friend? We are all at risk. Our war is hatred and bias, anger and frustration, shunning and casting out, ghettoizing those unlike you or me. No, it is not war, but it is like war and like war we can rise about self interest and care for those who surround us. I have seen this in our community a gay man becomes ill and word goes out and friends and even unknown’s step up and rally around the man or woman. It is done with gentleness and earnestness. It is just those
under the gaydar ...from 36 mainder of the night is saved for my diary and my eyes only. Suffice to say, I left my heart in Memphis! The next day I woke up and got packed. Christine and I were on the road early back to New Orleans. On the way back we stopped for lunch in Brookhaven, Mississippi, at a rustic barbecue eatery called Bowie’s. It was quaint place with lots of weapons hanging on the walls, like Bowie knives, axes and meat hooks. Come to think of it, maybe it did look like something out of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The food and service were good so it was well worth the stop. After lunch, we got back on the road and arrived in New Orleans by late afternoon. Even though it was a quick trip, it was totally enjoyable.
Tony’s Tidbits of Wisdom
I
n the age of Facebook and email, I find letter writing and sending cards a dying communication form that needs to be brought back. Now the romantic in me is coming out, yes, I do have one of those streaks in my body. How many of you have ever received a love letter, and no, grindr texts do not count? Well, I have and words cannot describe that feeling of euphoria to read someone else’s words of adoration about you. I
have kept them for all these years and from time to time, I pull them out and reread them. Each time remembering the boy that wrote them. He was the first boy I ever dated, the boy I came out to, that handsome military man that now lives in Phoenix and runs a theatre. We both have very separate lives, but I still have kept his letters as a memento of a time in my life where I was a confused and scared young man, terrified of what being gay may have in store for me, unsure of my future. His letters to me helped make me stronger and gave me the courage to come out to everyone. I believe if you truly love someone, send them a love letter to show your feelings, and also side note, after you do that, I guarantee they will be eating out of the palm of your hand. Seriously, I mean this. That boy could have made me do anything after I got those letters. But I digress, the point I am trying to make is that writing a love letter, or sending notes of encouragement or cards to friends are tangible things that people can cherish and hold onto for the rest of their lives. Now it is so easy to shoot off an email, send a text, or tweet someone, sending a written missive shows more than you can imagine. It lets the receiver of the message know you went a little farther to em-
brace them as a lover, friend, customer, whatever the case may be. Another pet peeve I have is e-cards of any sort of occasion. Ladies and gentlemen, honestly, send out real holiday cards. An emailed holiday card is about as personal as one of those political calls you receive before each election that is not even a real person but a machine. Condolence cards are another thing you should never email, or God forbid Facebook message people. Shows a complete lack of sincerity, either go to the services, send a card, or do nothing. Besides, I like to let Hallmark find the right words for any occasion, it makes your life so much easier. Another great practice to get in the habit of doing; is sending a thank you card when you are invited to a party that does not involve a gift. If you bring a gift like to a birthday party, graduation, wedding, etc. this practice is not necessary, but to just a regular house party, it will go a long way to make you stand out in your host’s mind. So try it out and start sending out some mail, the US Postal Service can use the extra business, your popularity level will rise and that special someone will be all yours. If you have an event, story or idea, you want covered, contact me at tonymgp@hotmail.com.
moments that we become shipmates. So to it is taught in the spirit and the faith that to serve is to be served, to sacrifice is to give. One gave all that we might all have life and that abundantly. So, if we are hitting the sales, basking in a courtyard, putting in summer plantings, pause for a moment. Pray for a shipmate, pray for a friend, and remind yourself that, “Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one’s life for his friends” and with great hearts give thanks. If you can thank a veteran and find a poppy and wear it – do so. It may remind us each one of us to love greatly.
obituary
In Memory of Tahtianah Kresha Oct. 11, 1980-May 10, 2012
baton rouge 6th Baton Rouge Pride Fest Set for June 23
P
lans are in place for a great celebration when the sixth annual Baton Rouge Pride Fest takes place June 23. The 2012 Baton Rouge Pride Fest is set for noon until 6pm inside the LSU Student Union Building in Baton Rouge, and there’s a great lineup for the community resource fair and an entire afternoon of entertainment. “The 2012 Baton Rouge Pride Fest will be another great event for everyone,” said Tom Merrill, chair of the Pride Fest team. “We’ve got a great place to hold it, which is even bigger than before, and we can enjoy all the amenities of the university campus. “It promises to be a wonderful celebration – with a fantastic lineup of entertainment and special guests, as well as the community resource fair that serves as our centerpiece each year.” Entertainment for the event includes Baton Rouge’s own legendary diva Daphne MuShatt, who is returning this year with a brand new band. In addition, local favorites Michigan Avenue are joining the lineup this year, and festival organizers are bringing in singer/comedian/storyteller Kevin J. Thornton, who promises to make you laugh, as well as be entertained, while he touches on topics like sexuality, religion and American life in a new century. Completing the schedule will be the always entertaining Krewe of Divas and a step team from Nu Phi fraternity. Visit BRPrideFest.COM.
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starlet-in-hiding Bettina Barnes, and the fact that our heroine, Chicklet suffers with split personalities, one of them a sexually voracious vixen who has nothing less than world domination on her mind! by Brian Sands Fred Nuccio directs Matthew Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com Mickal, Molly Ruben-Long, Kenneth Thompson, Bob Murrell, Jermaine L. variety of roles. Each time, I have been Keleen, Chris Ramage, Ethan AnderA Memorable Memorial so taken with his ability to fully inhabit a son, Amanda Zirkenbach, and Tari Day Weekend character, whatever the gender, age or Hohn. background.” …and Beyond! Final performances are Friday/ The CAC is located at 900 Camp Saturday, May 25 & 26, at 8pm. All or those of you not going to Pensacola for Memorial Day Street. Performances are Wednesday- tickets are $25 and can be ordered by weekend—or some other Friday, May 23-25, at 7:30pm plus phone at 504.488.1460. fabulous locale—never fear! In addi- shows at 3pm and 7pm on Sunday, For Charles Ward’s last production to all the goings-on at the various May 27. Call 504.522.6545 for tickets. tion at Rivertown Repertory Theatre, Graham has some pretty big shoes there may not be anyone in drag, but bars and clubs around town, there are to fill. After all, Pauline Collins, the The Marvelous Wonderettes does a number of theatrical productions original Shirley Valentine, won a Tony promise “a cotton-candy colored, nonwhich you can enjoy without worrying Award and was nominated for an Os- stop musical blast from the past.” about what level of SPF to apply. Don’t car for the film version. Then again, wait, though—a number of them are At the 1958 Springfield H.S. prom, this could be the start of a whole new four girls, with hopes and dreams as finishing up their runs this weekend. Having recently been displaced casting approach; let’s see, Nathan big as their crinoline skirts and voices from their home of 20 years at Canal Lane, David Hyde Pierce, Rupert to match, take the audience on a musiPlace, Southern Rep has set up shop Everett and, if reset in Brooklyn, Harvey cal trip down memory lane. Created at the Contemporary Arts Center. “What Fierstein! and written by Roger Bean, The Mara treat to be at the velous Wonderettes is CAC!”, says Southern directed by Patrick Rep’s Artistic Director Mendelson and features Aimée Hayes. “With favorite songs from the Southern Rep ‘on the 1950’s and ‘60’s includroad’ I cannot imagine a ing Lollipop, Dream better place to land than Lover, Stupid Cupid, Lipat New Orleans’ great stick On Your Collar, Hold cultural meeting Me-Thrill Me-Kiss Me, It’s ground.” My Party, It’s In His Kiss Through May 27, (The Shoop-Shoop for the final production Song), and many more. of their 2011-2012 25th The Marvelous Anniversary Season, Wonderettes runs Southern Rep is prethrough May 27 with persenting Shirley Valenformances on Friday/ tine starring Ricky GraSaturday at 8pm and on ham. “Wait a minute,” I Sunday at 2:30pm.The can hear you thinking, cast includes Allee Peck, “isn’t that a one-woman Rachel De Jonge, Micah show?” Well, yes it is Desonier, and Kayla and your point? Herrington. In Willy Russell’s Ticket prices range wry and wistful from $17 to $35. An opdramedy, a valentine to tional pre-performance ordinary women, buffet served by Ricky Graham in Shirley Valentine (Photo by John Barrois) Shirley’s a middle-aged Benedict’s Caterers is Liverpool housewife who, while she also available at $30. The theatre is Not to be outdone in the drag de- located at 325 Minor Street in Kenner. prepares her husband’s chips’n’eggs, finds herself talking to the wall wonder- partment, the folks over at the Mid-City Call 504.468.7221 Tuesdays through ing what happened to her life. But when Theater (3540 Toulouse) are present- Fridays from 10:30am to 2:30pm for her best friend wins an all-expenses- ing Psycho Beach Party , Charles tickets and reservations. paid vacation to Greece for two, Shirley Busch’s classic mash-up of beach blanOut in Covington, Playmakers Thegoes along and begins to see the world, ket movies and multiple personality ater presents Three By Tennessee, psychodramas, with a dab of unhinged an evening of three short comedies by and herself, in a different light. Such a part would seem tailor- movie moms thrown in for good mea- Tennessee Williams, directed by Ann made for Graham. Well-known for his sure. Pourciau. Set in 1962 Malibu Beach, Chicklet comic, drag personas, he can also he Lady of Larkspur Lotion feabring out a character’s pathos, for ex- Forrest desperately wants to be “part tures Jane McNulty, Jenny Killeen and ample, as Roxie’s nebbishy husband of the in crowd.” She goes to the beach Shannon Williams. Linda Wendel, with her friends, nerdy Berdine and Sandy Woodman and Tom Hassinger Amos in Chicago. Southern Rep’s Managing Direc- sexy Marvel Anne, to learn how to surf appear in A Perfect Analysis Given tor Marieke Gaboury directs the mono- but all they have on their minds is boys, by a Parrot. And Ambie Award winner drama. “The first time I saw Ricky namely Provoloney, Yo-Yo, and heart- Emily Antrainer returns to New Orperform,” says Gabourey, “he was play- throb Starcat, all led by surf guru, The leans in The Case of The Crushed ing Vera Charles, in a reading of Auntie Great Kanaka. Petunias along with Hassinger, Adolfo Add to the crazy mix Chicklet’s Rodriquez and Sandra Barsczeski. Mame at Le Chat Noir, and since then, I have seen him take the stage in a overbearing Mother, Hollywood movie Three By Tennessee completes
trodding the boards
F
its engagement Friday/Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm, May 25-27. Reserve tickets ($15; students-$10) by calling 985.893.1671. Playmakers Theater is at 19106 Playmakers Road on the North Shore. Due to a scheduling change you won’t be able to see JPAS’ local premiere production of Xanadu this weekend, but there will be performances June 2nd (7:30pm) & 3rd (2pm) in the Fuhrmann Auditorium at the Greater Covington Center (317 N. Jefferson Ave, Covington) and June 10 at 2pm at the Temple Theatre in Meridian, Mississippi. Based on the ’80s cinematic disaster, Xanadu follows the journey of a magical, beautiful Greek muse, Kira, who descends from the heavens of Mt. Olympus to Venice Beach, California on a quest to inspire a struggling artist, Sonny, to achieve the greatest artistic creation of all time—the first Roller Disco! (hey, it’s 1980) But, when Kira falls into forbidden love with the mortal Sonny, her jealous sisters take advantage of the situation and chaos and comedy abound. Directed by Dane Rhodes, Xanadu features a cast led by Tiffany Jones, Eddie Simon and Vatican Lokey with Tara Brewer, Leslie Limberg, Jason George, Vanessa Van Vranken, Jessica Mixon and Ryan Jones. For tickets, call the JPAS box office at 504.885.2000. Continuing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 8pm through June 3, Cripple Creek’s Lysistrata, at the AllWays Lounge & Theatre (2240 St. Claude Ave.) demonstrates that nearly 2,500 years after its debut, Aristophanes’ comedy has lost none of its satiric bite. The year is 411 B.C. and the Peloponnesian War has been dragging on for over 20 years. The women of Hellas have had enough! Lysistrata of Athens gathers a council of women from throughout the whole of Greece— daughters, lovers, widows, and wives of soldiers—in order to propose a most radical idea: No peace? NO SEX! What follows is a vivid, sexy, and earthen romp through gender, politics, diplomacy and everything in-between! Will the women hold to their oath? Will the men rise to the occasion? For a mere $15, come and find out! This production, directed by Emilie Whelan, has live, original music by Aurora Nealand and features a cast including Kerry Cahill as Lysistrata, Jessica Lozano, Monica R. Harris, Shannon Flaherty, Marie Lovejoy, Madison Curry, Jennifer Pagan, Ian Hoch, Ross Britz, Matt Story, Nat Kusinitz, Phil Cramer, and Cripple Creek Artistic Director Andrew Vaught. Beginning on Thursday, Falling UP Company presents the world premiere of Jason Kerzinski’s First Child, a play about designer children, the nature of fatherhood, and the nature of [continued on 41]
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trodding the boards ...from 40 manhood. First Child is the story of a young couple at odds. John can’t stop eating processed foods, which are causing his “pessimist gene” to mutate. Jean is adamant that he not fertilize her eggs
because of this danger. They must turn to the sperm bank for access to the gene for optimism. What could go wrong? Playwright Kerzinski recently moved to New Orleans from Chicago. Director Stacie Lejeune is a member of Four Humours Theater, making her debut at directing a full production.
First Child runs at La Nuit Theater, 5039 Freret Street, May 24, 25, 31, and June 1 (Thursdays & Fridays), 7pm; May 26 & June 2 (Saturdays), 10pm. Call 504.231.7011 for tickets which are just $10. And while it hadn’t been confirmed at press time, by the time you’re reading this it is likely that The NOLA
Project’s As You Like It will have added three extra performances on May 23, 24, and 25 in the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden. If last year ’s sold-out A Midsummer’s Night Dream is any indication, you will not want to miss this production of one of Shakespeare’s most winning comedies.
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chop chop by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
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.
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 7am-10pm 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
Gourmet Sliders with Onion Rings @ 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy
Salsiccia Marinara Pizza @ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Mkt Pl
BBQ Brisket with peas baked beans & French bread @ Restaurant/Deli of the Year Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.
Beef Lasagna @ The Decadence Shoppe, 806 N. Rampart St. (left) Shrimp, Andouille & Stoneground Grits @ The Country Club, 634 Louisa St.
(above right) Hot Appetizer Platter @ Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130
Veal Parmesan (lightly paneed cutlet of veal baked with red sauce & parmesan cheese over linguine @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.
Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • May 22-J une 4, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 43
44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 22-J une 4, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec
Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • May 22-J une 4, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 45
ambush
papar azzi
Kevin, dancer Ben & Jack @ The Corner Pocket
Phoenix bartender Bryan all dolled up!
Don & Ryan @ Society Page
New bartender Ryan & bartender Will hail from Double Play Lannie bartending @ Ninth Circle
John, Matt & Roxy welcome you to 700 Club
Double Play’s Chuck & Chris
Corner Pocket dancer Gerald Robert & Rachard @ Ninth Circle Double Play bartender Trevor & Jon grab a cold one @ 700 Club
Miss Carol welcomes you to Le Roundup
Voodoo bartender Randy Ward Dancer Tommy on the bar at The Corner Pocket Yendor cocktailin’ @ Society Page
Corner Pocket dancer Cody
Tiffany & Teah Foxxx cocktailin’ @ Le Roundup
Society Page bartender Gregory welcomes you
Wilhemina & Andy hail from Tubby’s Golden Lantern
46 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 22-J une 4, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec
Dancers, Bartenders & More ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon
Corner Pocket MC Lisa Beaumann & dancer Bradley
Legendary Mother Moses & Chris @ The Double Play
Gay East erParade.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNew Orleans.COM • May 22-J une 4, 2012 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 47
48 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • May 22-J une 4, 2012 • Of fic ial Sout her n Dec adenc e Guide • Sout her nDec adenc e.COM hernDec