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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

Ambush Mag Urges You to Vote for President Barack Obama Nov. 6th

mbush Mag has endorsed President Barack Obama for a second term and urges you to vote on Tuesday, November 6. This presidential election may be one of the most important to ever face the LGBT community. Whatever you do, make it to the voting booth on November 6th. The outcome may very well affect life as we know it as LGBT Americans. All of our gains are in jeopardy, and may even be reversed without the help of President Obama. The Human Rights Campaign endorsed President Barack Obama earlier in the year. According to HRC: "The decision was made based on the President’s demonstrated commitment to LGBT equality and his record of accomplishment, from major legislative victories to critical administrative reforms. Since taking office, President Obama’s Administration’s record of accomplishment for the LGBT community includes: · Pressing for passage and signing legislation to repeal the 'Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell' law that bans openly lesbian, gay and bisexual servicemembers. · Pressing for passage and signing an inclusive hate crimes law – the first federal statute to explicitly protect LGBT individuals. · Determining that the administration believes Section 3 of DOMA to be unconstitutional and refusing to defend the discriminatory law in court. · Requiring hospitals nationwide to adopt LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination policies regarding visitation. In addition, the administration’s policies: added gender identity to the equal employment opportunity policy governing all federal jobs; permitted married same-sex couples to use their marriage licenses as evidence of a name change for passports and instituted more reasonable standards for changing a gender marker on passports; allowed the Census Bureau to release data on married same-sex couples; extended a number of benefits to same-sex partners of federal employees possible under existing authority; launched a National HIV/AIDS Strategy and efforts to target populations most at risk; required abstinence-only-until-marriage sex education programs be inclusive of and non-stigmatizing toward LGBT youth; and recognized LGBT families are protected under a host of laws from the Violence Against Women Act to family and medical leave regulations to housing programs." HRC President Joe Solmonese had the following to say: “President Obama has improved the lives of LGBT Americans more than any President in history. In 2008 we were promised change and profound change is what we got. More remains to be done and ensuring that President Obama is able to continue the forward momentum toward equality for another term is an absolute priority of the Human Rights Campaign.” For more information, visit HRC.ORG.

New Orleans Fringe Announces the 2012 Fringe Fest Lineup with 76 Wild, Weird Fresh and Original Shows

Thanksgiving, World AIDS Day, Holiday Shopping Guide out Nov. 20, DEADLINE: Tues., Nov. 13

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26th art against aids celebrazzi obituary/miss alice stevenson moments in gay n.o. history chop chop hno 29 paparazzi/monster brawl snap paparazzi/new orleans paparazzi/nola, pensacola under the gaydar

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real estate 20 a community within communities 20 oz turnabout paparazzi 23 ambush paparazzi/new orleans 24 classifieds 26 trodding the boards 29 reVIEW 30 big easy paparazzi/new orleans 32 big easy paparazzi/new orleans 34

Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com unusual spaces: Shadowbox Theatre, Mardi Gras Zone Warehouse, Den of Muses, Marigny Opera House, Café Istanbul in the New Orleans Healing Center, and new this year The Old Firehouse. The Bring Your Own Venue (BYOV) option greatly expands the scope and flavor of the festival by encouraging artists to organize their own spaces throughout the city. Over 50 BYOV shows are presented at venues such as Zeitgeist, the Allways Lounge & Theatre, Michalopoulos Studio, Mudlark Public Theatre, Byrdie’s, John Paul’s and more. Visit the Free-For-All Tent at the corner of Press and Dauphine in the Marigny for Peep Show Previews, the Friday Night Tent Party with Rising Appalachia and Africa Brass, Busker’s Happy Hour, and the Fringe Trunk Show and Art Market. Got kids? In addition to the kid-friendly shows at venues, Family Fringe features LOTS of free kids’ activities including dance performances, a hula hoop party, a bike repair workshops run by RHUBARB, openmic event, puppet shows, an obstacle course and more. Now in its second year, the Yard Art Tour (YAT2), a self-guided walking/driving public art tour organized by the Fringe, is still accepting submissions. Before and after shows, audience can drift around the neighborhood looking at a bit of fun, wacky, poignant, pointed yard art. To submit your art, visit www.nofringe.org. The eccentric GoodChildren Fringe Parade will be rolling down St. Claude from Poland Avenue at 2 pm on Saturday, November 17 to the rhythms of the GoodChildren Marching Band and to the steps of performers and neighborhood types alike. More information on the Fringe and all Festival events can be found at

he New Orleans Fringe Festival announces the lineup for its fifth annual festival, Nov. 14 - 18, 2012! The Fringe features an incredible 76 shows from all over the country (and even internationally!) performing at 41 venues throughout the city, primarily in the Marigny and Bywater. Tickets are $8 with the one-time purchase of a Fringe button ($3). Visit www.nofringe.org for more info about tickets and show times. What is Fringe? A mind-twisting Medea, a serenade of stiltwalkers, opera out-ofbounds, dangerous wolves, contortionist rabbits, Hamlet rubbed wrong, revengethirsty puppets, dance from treetop to bayou, and so much more. Visit www.nofringe.org for the entire lineup and schedule. Tickets are available at www.nofringe.org and Mardi Gras Zone before the festival. During the Festival, buy tickets with cash or credit card at the FreeFor-All Tent on the corner of Press and Dauphine in the Marigny or at Mardi Gras Zone. Tickets are also available at all Fringe venues. Tickets are $8 with the one-time purchase of a festival button ($3), a 6show pass is $40, and an all-access pass is $99. The Festival features 24 shows that were identified through a unique peer review process as high-quality, original, fringe-y theater. These “Fringe-Managed Venue” shows are presented in six perforScotty Heron & Layard Thompson in Twink Spree Melee mance venues at offbeat theaters and

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www.nofringe.org. The Fringe is a 501(c)3 non-profit that was founded by local arts organizers to

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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 Blanche-Alabama Tony Leggio, Frank Perez, 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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celebrazzi

he annual Lazarus Ball presented by Halloween 29 brought Persana Shoulders, Biance Del Rio, David "Woggie" Wohlgemuth, bar sponsor Oz's Johnny Chisholm and Cy Whitney to the Ogden Museum of Southern Art benefiting Project Lazarus.

he main event's Dusty Debris and Blanche Debris flank Frankie Fierce, and "Best Cock" costume contest winners Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain as the "Game Cocks" at Halloween 29: Monster Brawl benefiting Project Lazarus at CAC Sheds. The giant circuit costume party brought in over 2,000 guests.

alloween Horror Turn-ABout MCs Persana Shoulders and Blanche Debris flank Fauxdona (bar baron Doyle Yeager) for his first time in drag at Oz.

J Maxx District Manager for Louisiana and Mississippi Wayde Brantly presents $5,000 from TJ Maxx to Cutter's bar baron Mac McAll and auctioneer Kevin Limberg during the annual Art In The Hood auction and buffet raising $7,700 for Buzzy's Boys and Girls at Cutter's.

ony Leggio and Barbara Ella as "Baby Jane & Blanche" complete with the rat dinner under a silver dome won "Best Costume" at Halloween 29: Monster Brawl at CAC Sheds.

J John Buckley was the featured DJ in the VIP Host Lounge for Halloween 29: Weigh-Ins at House of Blues.

alloween 29 sponsor Ambush and friends aboard the Riverboat Natchez for Champions Cruise closing out the weekend.

alloween 29 co-chairs John Ramsey and Dustin Woehrmann join Jim Mounger as he hosted the final Halloween Host Party of the season.

r. Louisiana Leather 1st runner-up Lance Baggett, winner Bill Naquin and Lords of Leather captain Gary Vandeventer (above) on stage following the annual competition at Oz. Naquin will travel to International Mr. Leather in May, 2013. r. Louisiana Leather Bill Naquin joins Miss Louisiana Leatherette Countess C. Alice (right) after she raised $175 during the Mr. Louisiana Leather competition for Buzzy's Boys & Girls.

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the "official" dish ...from 6 nurture fearless theater in New Orleans and to benefit artists, venues, neighborhoods and local businesses. Sponsors: Louisiana Division of the Arts, Arts Council of New Orleans, City of New Orleans, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, Bywater Neighborhood Association, Whole Foods Market, Bernard Productions, NOLA Brewing Company, Old New Orleans Rum, Regions Bank, Mardi Gras Zone, WWNO 88.9, NOLA.com and a host of local businesses and individuals. This program is supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council. This program is supported in part by a Community Arts Grant made possible by the City of New Orleans. The grant is administered through the Arts Council of New Orleans.

20th Annual Red Party: Red Velvet Nov. 17 @ Cafe Lafitte In Exile

an y'all believe it? This year marks the 20th annual Red Party presented by the oldest gay bar in North America, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, 901 Bourbon Street. How time flies! It all began twenty years ago when Lafitte's manager at the time, the late Robin Malta, launched this great event. Set for Saturday, November 17th at 9:30pm, the party once again benefits Belle Reve. Serving the HIV/AIDS population of New Orleans, Belle Reve was the first nonprofit, assisted living facility of its kind to be licensed in the State of Louisiana. It provides a home and full support services for low-income and homeless adults and families living with HIV/AIDS. The staff turnabout show brings to the stage and behind the bar all of your favorite bartenders donning their finest ensembles to captivate and seduce you into giving up your $$$ for such a worthy cause.

This year's theme is Red Velvet, and each bartender will auction off a Red Velvet Cake. The larger-than-life Blanche Debris returns as MC to tantalize the masses for this must-see gala. Of course there are raffles galore, so make sure and start buying your raffle tickets now which are only a $1 a ticket. There are many great prizes, but this year's grand prize is two roundtrip tickets on Jet Blue Airways. Past Red Parties have raised over $87,750 for local charities. Check with your favorite bartender for tickets, or details, or visit Lafittes.COM.

Amon-Ra Scavenger Hunt Nov. 18

he Krewe of Amon-Ra will host its annual Scavenger Hunt on Sunday, November 18th from 1-5pm. Beginning upstairs in The Balcony Bar at Cafe Lafitte in Exile, 901 Bourbon Street, the hunt takes you through the French Quarter in search of items you need on the list to win. Donation is $10 and all monies raised benefits the Krewe of Amon-Ra Ball XLVIII on Saturday, January 12, 2013. Visit KreweOfAmonRa.COM for additional information.

26th Annual Art Against AIDS Dec. 1 @ New Orleans Museum of Art

O/AIDS Task Force will present the 26th annual Art Against AIDS art auction and holiday gala at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Art Against AIDS, one of New Orleans’ premier visual arts and civic events, will once again take place at the New Orleans Museum of Art from 8pm to midnight on World AIDS Day, Saturday, December 1st. This exciting holiday gala benefits NO/ AIDS Task Force and features a silent auction of juried art pieces by acclaimed artists. For the first time, it will also include “Paper Prayers” – an art form based on the

Japanese custom of offering strips of painted paper as prayers for healing the sick – created by artists, school children and local celebrities. The gala also features food from some of New Orleans finest caterers and restaurants, live entertainment, and a disco under the stars to dance the night away! The regions rich cultural community provides the perfect frame for Art Against AIDS. It was this community that came together in 1987 in response to the early devastating effects of the AIDS epidemic in the New Orleans area to found this event. Today Art Against AIDS is one of the city’s premiere holiday galas, spotlighting the eclectic collection of the area’s visual arts community and their works, the culinary arts featuring some of New Orleans’ finest restaurants, and entertainment provided by the best of the city’s nightlife—all under one roof. To date, Art Against AIDS has raised over $1.5 million to support the vital services of the NO/AIDS Task Force. Single tickets to the gala is $75. Patron tickets which include admission to the Patron Party and gala include one ticket $200, two $375, four $600 and six $1,000. For information or tickets visit NOAIDSTaskForce.ORG or call 504.821.2601.

Art In The Hood Raises $7,700 for Buzzy's Boys & Girls @ Cutter's

he annual Art In The Hood October exhibition raised a whopping $7,700 at Cutter's in New Orleans. Donated works of art are sold with all proceeds benefiting Buzzy's Boys & Girls. Although artwork is sold throughout the month leading up to the October 20th buffet and auction gala, that night auctioneer Kevin Limberg auctions off those pieces that are still available to the higest bidder. Additionally, the scrumptious buffet garnered another $5 per person. TJ Maxx, for the third year in a row, donated $5,000 to the worthy charity. TJ Maxx District Manager for Louisiana and Mississippi Wayde Brantly was on hand to make the generous presentation. Congratulations to the men of Cutter's: Mac McAll, Dudley LeBlanc and Jimmy Kilgour on a job well done. Since 2003, Art In The Hood has raised

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over $42,500 for Buzzy's Boys & Girls. Named to honor the significant work of William J. “Buzzy” Fanning, Buzzy’s Boys & Girls is a 501(c)3 fundraising organization based in New Orleans which works with local HIV/ AIDS support agencies such as the NO/AIDS Task Force, the FACES (Family Advocacy, Care and Education Services) program at Children’s Hospital, and the HOP Clinic (HIV Outpatient Clinic) to serve people in the New Orleans and surrounding areas living with HIV/AIDS. The organization accepts requests from licensed social workers at these and other agen[continued on 10]

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obituary French Quarter & Marigny Personaility Miss Alice Passes Away

lice Stevenson, or Miss Alice as many of us knew her, was a unique French Quarter and Marigny personality passing away on October 25, 2012. She was known and loved by many throughout the city of New Orleans. Her love of animals and her energy to work for her church and the less fortunate was endless. She was employed by the New Orleans Race Track as their head Botanist. She was born in Elkton, TN and graduated from Peabody University Summa Cum Laude. She is survived by her best friend and companion, Tony Wojtan, brother, David M. Ball, godchild Christy Easterday Fendley, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Welcoming her in Glory are her parents, Allen and Nelle Stevenson and sister Jenell Hollis. A Mass of Christian Resurrection was held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church (St. Jude) with interment in St. Louis # 3 Cemetery. She will be missed by all of her family and friends whose lives she touched.

the "official" dish ...from 8 cies for help with the medical and other needs of their clients. Visit BuzzysBoysAndGirls.ORG for more information on the charity.

Over 4,100 Join 29th Halloween Circuit Weekend Benefiting Project Lazarus

he ultimate benefit weekend, Halloween 29 (HNO 29) was once again a great success bringing in over 4,100 participants from throughout the world and New Orleans to the Crescent City. Halloween’s in New Orleans provides funding for Project Lazarus, a home in New Orleans for men and women with AIDS, so that they may provide healthcare and support services for their residents. In its 28 year history, the organization has raised over $4.5M for Project Lazarus. Halloween is one of the only 100% donation/volunteer event weekends left in the United States For 2012, taking a stand against bullying, which has had such tragic consequences over the past year, Halloween’s in New Orleans, with the support of Project Lazarus, added The Trevor Project as an additional beneficiary of the fundraiser. The excitement began on Thursday with The Lazarus Ball hosted at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Some 400 guests turned up in black tie for the big auction night with loads of cocktails and culinary delights. Friday afternoon was the Patron and Corporate Sponsor Brunch at Cafe Amelie with more cocktails and a brunch menu

with both chicken andouille gumbo, and grilled shrimp maque choux (finished with heavy cream) on top of Southern grits as a couple of the choices. Later that night was Weigh In’s: Strip Down and Size Up at the House of Blues with over 1,100 guests which featured New York’s own DJ Corey Craig with even more cocktails. The VIP Host Lounge in the Parish Room featured DJ John Buckley with some great eats and more cocktails. Saturday night was the big event with Monster Brawl at the CAC Sheds with over 2,000 guests. Featuring DJ Mike Cruz from New York, and amazing lights by Brian Holcombe, this event even had its own authentic boxing ring which acted as the main stage. The VIP Host Lounge was set up like back stage at a fighting ring with more cocktails and great eats. One of the highlights of the night was the ongoing parade of costume contestants in the main ring. Then the big moment came when Blanche Debris and Dusty Debris hit the ring with their ensemble of fighting staffers. It didn't last long and then it was the big Bounce finale. What a night! Sunday brought us on board the Riverboat Natchez for the Champions Cruise. With over 600 guests, it closed out the weekend with an afternoon of cocktails, food and camaraderie. Great sites going up the river and back. Once we docked, the winners of Saturday nights costume contest were announced including: Best Costume - Baby Jane & Blanche (Tony Leggio & Barbara Ella), Runner up Camo-fag; Best Group - Cereal Killers; Group Honorable Mention - Voodoo Dolls; Best Production Value - Hocus Pocus; Best Theme - Hurricane; Most Politically Correct - Gay Chick Fil-A; Best Out of Town - Puppy Breath; Best Pun - Daddycon; Best Cock - Game Cocks (Rip & Marsha); Most Graceful Exit - Glenda the Good Witch. Ambush Mag is proud to be one of the sponsors of Halloween in New Orleans for over two decades. Visit HalloweenNewOrleans.COM and get ready for Halloween 30: I3OO October 2427, 2013.

47th Odyssey Ball Benefits NOMA Nov. 10

ew Orleans Museum of Art's 47th annual Odyssey Ball: Off The Wall features delicious food, dancing, silent and live auctions, and of course, great art! Set for Saturday, November 10th, 9pm-1am, this year’s sponsors are The Lupin Foundation and Peoples Health. This ball celebrates the opening of Lifelike, an exhibition that’s “Off the Wall!” Art lovers will get a first look at the new exhibition of playfully deceptive artworks. Entertainment includes New Orleans' pop cellist Helen Gillet, and vocal group BRW providing three-part harmonies. Culinary delicacies will come from the Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group. As for the live auction, look for Pacific pearls, numerous artworks and a Caribbean vacation. For tickets or information, visit NOMA.ORG.

French Market Tree Lighting Nov. 15th

he annual French Market Tree Lighting ceremony is set for Thursday, November 15th at

Washington Artillery Park, 749 Decatur Street at Jackson Square, with a 4pm concert at the Upper Pontalba preceding. There will be historical costumed characters, egg nog and cider for sale, plus Saint Nicholas himself! The schedule of events includes: 4pm, Bon Operatit! On the Balcony at the Upper Pontalba - The Shops at the Upper Pontalba present “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!” Concerts are held on the balcony at 520 St. Peters Street, with public seating below. A fashion show hosted by Shops at the Upper Pontalba will be held from 4:20-4:30pm, showcasing the latest in local boutique clothing, jewelry, and shoes, with special offers for early holiday shoppers. 5pm, New Orleans Navy Band at Washington Artillery Park stage 6pm, Tree Lighting at the cannon at Washington Artillery Park 6-7pm, Cullen Landry & The Midnight Streetcar at Washington Artillery Park stage For more information, visit FrenchMarket.ORG.

The Roosevelt Makes Old Traditions New Again with the Waldorf Wonderland Lobby and Teddy Bear Tea

he Roosevelt New Orleans will continue its tradition of offering a spectacular display of New Orleans holiday wonderland decorations that are as luxurious and memorable as the historic property itself, this season scheduled for November 26, 2012, through January 6, 2013. The Waldorf Wonderland Lobby returns as the grand lobby is transformed into a canopy of white birch branches and thousands of twinkling lights. A 6-foot by 12-foot gingerbread village depicting Storyland in New Orleans City Park, featuring 15 children’s storybooks, 10 buildings, more than 20 storybook characters and a revolving carousel, all made out of candy and gingerbread, will be displayed inside Teddy’s Café, located off the hotel’s grand lobby. The lobby also will be lined with Christmas trees decorated with bows and ornaments, poinsettias and other holidaythemed displays. The festive attraction is a favorite near and far among locals and guests and is free and open to the public. ”The Waldorf Wonderland Lobby is a must-see for visitors and locals alike,” said Tod Chambers, general manager of The Roosevelt. “It’s our way of spreading the holiday cheer and offering guests and visitors a memory that will last a lifetime.” The holiday delight, an attraction for everyone who visits New Orleans during the season, has been a tradition since the 1930s. Also adding to the holiday spirit is The Roosevelt’s beloved Teddy Bear Tea, which returns December 1 with a special new set that is sure to impress. The event hosts guests and their children for a special tea party featuring children’s menu items, as well as traditional tea, a cash bar and menu for adults, plus complimentary free-flowing champagne. Children also will receive this year ’s commemorative Roosevelt Teddy Bear. Entertainment will include storytellers and trumpeters, as well as appearances by Santa, his elves and Mrs. Claus. Commemorative photos with

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Santa will be available at an additional cost. Guests can participate in Teddy Bear Tea December 2, 8–9, 15–16 and 21–23 in the Crescent City Ballroom, with seatings at 10am, 1pm and 4pm. Regular admission tickets for Teddy Bear Tea are $59 for adults and $39 for children 10 years of age and younger, plus tax and gratuity. VIP tickets are $74 for adults and $54 for children. All tickets may be purchased by calling The Roosevelt’s Holiday Line at 504.335.3129. Children ages 3 and under will be admitted free of charge. For more information on The Roosevelt New Orleans, visit therooseveltneworleans.com.

Hidden Treasures: Science & Technology Edition set for Dec.

riends of the Cabildo, the support organization for the Louisiana State Museum, continues its successful Hidden Treasures of the Louisiana State Museum with Science and Technology curator Polly Rollman December 10th and 12th at the Old U.S. Mint, 400 Esplanade Avenue. Tours are at 6pm and 7pm each night and the cost is $15 for FOC/LMF members and $20 for general admission. Reservations are required and no tickets are sold at the door. The Science and Technology collection consists primarily of tools and objects used by people to shape the industrial, scientific, domestic, and recreational aspects of daily life. The collection contains approximately 6,000 artifacts that represent the history of Louisiana in the context of technological development from the 16th to the 21st century. The collection features a wide variety of artifacts including manufacturing tools, architectural features, armament and military equipment, scientific and medical equipment, sports artifacts, children’s toys, archaeological materials, currency, and many other areas of Louisiana material culture. Begun in 2010, the Friends of the Cabildo’s Hidden Treasures series highlights and raises funds for the Louisiana State Museum Curatorial Staff to purchase artifacts to include in the State Collection. The bimonthly presentations focus on a specific curator and department, providing the public rare behind the scenes tours of many never before seen artifacts. Ticket prices are $15 for Friends of the Cabildo/Louisiana Museum Foundation members and $20 for the general public. Complimentary refreshments will be served. To purchase your Hidden Treasures tickets contact the Friends of the Cabildo office at 504.523.3939. Founded in 1956, the Friends of the Cabildo (FOC) is 501(c)(3) organization that supports the Louisiana State Museum (LSM). The FOC assist the LSM through a variety of functions including providing volunteers and financial support to all State Museum properties in New Orleans and the state of Louisiana. The Friends of the Cabildo are located on Historic Jackson Square in the Cabildo at 701 Chartres Street (FriendsOfTheCabildo.ORG).

N e x t De a d l i n e : T u e s d a y, N o v. 1 3 t h ov Ca l l 5 0 4 .5 2 2 .8 0 4 9

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moments in gay new orleans history by Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

The Gay Bashing Murder of Fernando Rios

few weeks ago gay communities across the nation commemorated the 14th anniversary of the murder of Matthew Shepard. Shepard, you may recall, was a college student who was brutally beaten, tied to a fence post, tortured, and left to die on October 12, 1998 in Laramie, Wyoming. Shepard was killed simply for being gay and his murder galvanized gays everywhere to speak out against homophobia. As a result, legislation was introduced to include sexual orientation in the Federal Hate Crimes law. After a ten year struggle against social conservatives who opposed the measure, Congress finally passed the Matthew Shepard Act in 2009. President Barack Obama signed the bill into law on October 28, 2009.

While Matthew Shepard’s murder was a touchstone in our national fight for equality, he was not the first gay person killed just for being gay. In fact, the gay community in New Orleans also has a martyr who predates Shepard by forty years. In 1958, Fernando Rios was savagely attacked and murdered by three homophobes in the heart of the French Quarter. It was September and the fall semester at colleges and universities was underway. At that time, a common recreational activity among fraternity brothers at college campuses across the nation was to “roll a queer.” This homophobic ritual essentially consisted of two to five fraternity brothers going to the “gay” section of town, or a gay bar if the town had one, and beating up someone they perceived to be

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

A Food and Farm Center for New Orleans on National Food Day

n honor of National Food Day, a time to champion affordable, healthy and sustainable food, the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center announced a partnership with the Recirculating Farms Coalition and the New Orleans Food and Farm Network to create a urban food and farming center on 2.5 acres of land owned by the Convention Center, at the corner of Melpomene Street and Tchoupitoulas. The new center, named Growing Local NOLA, will be a hub for research, education, training, and community interaction on growing, marketing, and preparing healthy, fresh food. “We are thrilled to host the new food and farm center on our site,” said Bob

Johnson, president/general manager of the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. “This is an incredibly meaningful project that will showcase cutting edge urban farming methods and provide unique classes and activities for our community, as well as convention attendees and others visiting from all around the world.” The core of the new center is to be an innovative water-based recirculating farm that uses hydroponics - growing plants in nutrient-rich constantly recycled water and aquaponics - raising fish and plants together in one closed-loop system. Both methods are ideal for cities because they can grow a wide range of plants and fish on rooftops, or on oddly shaped or even paved lots, producing high yields in a small amount of space. The center will also have a community garden - with raised soil beds and

gay. In New Orleans, that meant the French Quarter and Café Lafitte In Exile, the oldest gay bar in the city. And so one night, three fraternity brothers from Tulane University (John Farrell, Alberto A. Calvo, and David P. Drennan) decided to “roll a queer.” The three homophobes went to the Quarter in search of a victim. Farrell went to Café Lafitte in Exile about 1:30 in the morning and settled on Fernando Rios, a twenty-six year old tour guide visiting from Mexico. The two sat next to each other in the bar and chatted for a while before they decided to leave together. As Rios and Farrell were walking back to Rios’ hotel, they entered Pirate’s Alley, where Calvo and Drennan were lying in wait. The three undergrads then attacked Rios, beating him repeatedly in the head and kicking him in the stomach several times. After the attack, the three gay bashers returned to campus bragging about the assault and showing off Rios’ wallet, which they had stolen. Rios, barely conscious and unable to move, was not discovered until the next morning. His face bloody and swollen, he was rushed to Charity Hospital where he died. During a routine autopsy, the city coroner discovered Rios had an unusually thin fruit trees - a classroom, teaching kitchen, events space, and eventually, an on-site café serving farm to table local fare. ”This center will be a catalyst for personal and community farms and local food here in New Orleans and beyond,” said Marianne Cufone, Executive Director of the Recirculating Farms Coalition. While New Orleans is famous for its unique cuisine, fresh healthy food is not always accessible and affordable for everyone. Louisiana has the second highest obesity rate in the country and with just over 20 grocery stores to serve more than 350,000 residents, New Orleans is one of the worst food deserts. The new center will help to change this. The center’s farm will source fresh food to local distributors, restaurants and grocers, as well as direct to consumers through an on-site farmers’ market. It will also offer a wide range of gardening, farming, and farm-to-table cooking classes, programs for youth and seniors, and demonstrations, lectures, and presentations. The center will host special events too, such as harvest dinners and private parties, at its new Convention Center space. Sanjay Kharod, Executive Director of the New Orleans Food and Farm Network, explained, “This center is all about inspiring people to grow healthy fresh food for themselves and for sale at affordable prices to their neighbors and communities, creating green jobs and preparing delicious, nutritious meals.” Growing Local NOLA will be built using grants from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation and the Claneil Foundation. In addition to funding, the project has drawn much praise, enthusiasm and in-kind support. “The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry is excited about the creation of this food and farming center,” said Commissioner Mike Strain. “We plan to work collaboratively with the Recirculating Farms Coalition, New Orleans Food and Farm Network and Convention Center on this important project.” The Tulane City Center and the Louisiana State University (LSU) Urban Landscape Lab are both providing in-kind sup-

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cranium and this revelation played a key factor in the subsequent murder trial. Farrell, Calvo, and Drennan were arrested and went to trial on murder charges on January 21, 1959. The defendants admitted to the beating but argued he died because of his “eggshell cranium,” not because of their attack. Tortured logic aside, this defense made perfect sense to a homophobic, all male, all white jury in 1959 and the three students were easily acquitted by the jury after deliberating a mere two hours and fifteen minutes. The acquittal and press coverage of the trial provide a glimpse into the highly homophobic public attitudes of the time. When the “Not Guilty” verdict was announced, the courtroom erupted in cheers and applause. The New Orleans StatesItem pictured on its front page a picture of the defendants smiling broadly next to a boxed joke entitled “Today’s Chuckle,” which read, “Overheard in a nightclub: ordinarily I never chase a man, but this one was getting away.” Also, a deluge of letters poured into the editorial offices of the city’s newspapers, the overwhelming majority of them supporting the homophobic defendants and urging the city to “clean up the Quarter.” The few letters in support of Rios were often backhanded. One incensed reader argued the police should leave the gay bars alone so the “perverts” wouldn’t feel compelled to mingle with “normal” people. This hateful reaction was the polar opposite of the public outcry after Matthew Shepard’s murder. I don’t know whatever happened to John Farrell, Alberto Calvo, and David Drennan, but sometimes I wonder. If they are still alive, they would be in their sixties. Did they ever regret killing Fernando Rios? Were they self-loathing closet cases? If so, did they ever come out? Did any of them bear gay children or grandchildren? Were they alive when Matthew Shepard was murdered? If they were, what was their reaction? Did they, like the larger society in which they lived, evolve and become more open-minded and tolerant? Or did they, like far too many still among us, cling to their prejudice and fear? What does it matter, you may ask? Maybe not much. What does matter, though, is that we live our lives openly and never fail to speak out against homophobia. The recent spike in bullying suicides among gay teens proves there is still much to do. If the gay community in New Orleans had risen up in outrage after the murder of Fernando Rios, then perhaps Matthew Shepard and countless other victims like him wouldn’t have had to die by the bloody hand of homophobia. port by designing a masterplan for the food and farm center. Tulane Assistant Professor of Architecture Tiffany Lin and LSU Professor of Landscape Architecture Elizabeth Mossop are leading the project. Lin said, “Our experienced professional team is working collaboratively to showcase the inspiring green mission of this urban farm. By using recycled materials and renewable energy sources, we hope to create an innovative design solution that is natural, efficient and welcoming.” “This Center is an amazing collaborative effort that will support sustainable urban farming and healthy eating and lifestyles,” Cufone said. Plans for a groundbreaking ceremony are underway and expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

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paparazzi

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Halloween 29: Monster Brawl @ CAC Sheds benefiting Project Lazarus ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce, Tony Leggio, Rip Naquin

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Halloween 29: Weigh-Ins @ House of Blues; Champions Cruise aboard Riverboat Natchez ~ Photos by Frankie Fierce, Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon

Halloween 29: The Lazarus Ball @ Odgen Museumbenefiting Project Lazarus ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Rip Naquin

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pensacola

Halloween in the Streets ~ New Orleans

Nightlife @ Emerald City ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell

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under the gaydar

a community within communities

by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org

Bartender of the Month

artenders in this city are probably some of the hardest working folks around. They deal with huge crowds year round as well as an array of diverse customers, some very intoxicated. So when they are off, the last thing they usually want to do is think about work. But it is always uplifting to see someone who works these long hours and

Bartender of the Month Jake Good Friends Bar

gives back to the community in their spare time. I have a special place in my heart for the next bartender of the month for November, since he was one of my first bunny boys at the Bunnies in the Big Easy event I do during Easter weekend with Ms. Rona Conners. He is none other than the loveable Jake at Good Friends. Jake has a smile that lights up the bar and a warm personality to match. He normally works the upstairs bar at Good Friends, but sometimes you get lucky and he is downstairs to greet you. There are so many traits of Jake that makes him a good bartender. He had mad skills at preparing a drink; all the while keeping the customer engaged in good conversation. People enjoy sitting and visiting with him and that is exactly what a good bar owner should want. The more people like the bartender, the more they will stay and drink at their establishment. Jake is an expert at all drinks, but his martinis are to die for, and no one looks sexier moving that shaker back and forth than he does. It is quite an orgasmic experience. I do not even want to go into his whipped cream drinks. All kidding aside, Jake is just one of those sweet, nonassuming guys who goes out of his way to

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real estate Avoiding First Time Home Buyer Mistakes

here are several mistakes that first time home buyers make that are easily avoided. The idea is to not be impulsive or succumb to wishful thinking. Even though a home may seem like a dream house it could, in reality, be a real nightmare if you are not carefully considering everything that entails purchasing the house in detail. Before you buy be sure to check out the neighborhood thoroughly. Remember that there are real estate agents in the business of selling you a home however they can, and if that means telling you that you are about to live in a gay-friendly neighborhood that actually is not that friendly at all, then they may ~ intentionally or not, do their job and “get you into a home”. Yet another mistake that many first home buyers make is assuming that their credit is good before they make an offer on a home. They discover way too late that they cannot go through with buying the house because their credit is not good enough and the entire deal falls through. We strongly recommend that you get prequalified or pre-approved for a mortgage before you even start shopping for a house. This prevents you from wasting your own and everybody else’s time later in the game. Home sellers will not even consider entertaining an offer unless you are at a minimum pre-qualified, and your gay realtor

should require it before he or she even puts you in their car to look at homes. Your real estate agent should be able to refer you to reputable mortgage lenders, or speak with your own local financial institution ~ avoid on-line companies that are not familiar with your specific market. The desire to live in a certain layout or particular neighborhood or in an adored housing style can also cause you to be blind to some of the flaws of the home. Are you really prepared to live with low water pressure for years, that bathroom you have to sit sideways on the toilet in, very old major appliances that might break down at any minute, or replacing that clay tile roof? Make sure that you have the contingency fees in order that will help you pay for things if these break down. This is especially true if you want to buy a historic home, which we happen to love. Another error is to skimp when in comes to arranging different types of inspections on the property that is to be bought. Make sure that you get all of the inspections that you can afford as that can save you a lot of money in repairs down the line. In addition to the standard home inspection, we recommend a sewer scope, asking for a roof inspection and certificate, a furnace inspection and certificate, and depending on the results of your home inspection, specialists to review items of concern. Always demand licensed/insured contractors for all repairs and replacements necessary, with receipts and warranties at closing.

Blind Bartimeaeus

recently received a letter from a man who lives in anguish. In part his letter said that he did not feel that God was in any way blessing him. Rather that God was punishing him. Words like “suicide” surfaced in the letter. It was profoundly disturbing. He, as many of you may have guessed, was a man discovering he was/is gay. Perhaps his cultural setting is such that being gay is not only despised but to be eradicated. Perhaps his cultural setting is one that finds “perversion” in certain personhoods. He, in his words, tried to have people pray over him to extinguish his orientation but to no avail. So in misery and self pity and no small degree of anguish he reached out to me. Perhaps he had read one of these articles. Perhaps he had visited a website…who knows how he found us but find us he did. How does one respond to self-loathing? How does one respond to threats of suicide? How does one begin to open a door to a person found in this state of mind and spirit? First, take it seriously. Do not trivialize it, do not brush it off, do not say in sweeping terms, “Oh you’re OK get over it.” No, take it seriously. Take the whole person seriously. Not just the ‘suicide’ notion but the location, the self loathing, the miss-directed angst about God. It should all be taken seriously because it is all the fuel of self loathing and acute self loathing and sense of worthlessness can lead and will lead to self inflicted harm – in some fashion. Take it seriously. Self loathing and marginalization are certainly nothing new. I suppose in some ways by finding these words in Ambush I am preaching to the choir. In visioning my own faith context the focus of Jesus is precisely the marginalized standing in compassion and solidarity with them over and against those that would oppress, discourWhen shopping for a mortgage broker many first time buyers just go with the broker that throws them the lowest figure, low figures will change once the company feels they have “hooked you”, beware. Go with a referral from a trusted source, your gay realtor who closes dozens of deals every year, or your own bank. It is also a mistake to take out what is called a sub-prime loan. This is a very expensive mortgage with a super-high interest rate. It might be offered to you if your credit rating is not so hot. Keep in mind that as desirable as it may be to have a bit of equity, that making an expensive deal may not be worth it in the end because you will end up paying thousands more than you would have if you have simply cleaned up your credit rating and bought a home at a later date. Don’t panic about “missing the market” or “missing the low rates”, do your homework and be assured of the single best investment you may every make. Author Jeff Hammerberg is the Founding CEO of http:// www.GayRealEstate.com.

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age, and abuse the seemingly disempowered. The rallying cry of this 1st century Messiah is, “walk your faith has healed you,” “see your faith has healed you” to the faithless and hypocrites, “sell all that you have and follow me.” Just last Sunday the appointed scripture lesson from the Gospel of Mark told the story of “blind Bartimeaeus” a beggar who when hearing the crowd surrounding Jesus approach he threw off his cloak (the symbol of poverty and self loathing) and ran to Jesus for healing. Those in authority tried to stop him but the Messiah called him close with these simple words, “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus over and against The Law, Tradition, Culture, and prejudice called Bartimeaeus. Fix this image in your mind and fix this image in heat and fix this image in your very spirit for it is in this image that we find the true spirit, the true faith, the true teaching of Jesus the Son of Man. Take it seriously. The point is that my letter writer does not need to be “fixed” but embraced by the lover of the marginalized. It is no small wonder that the Bartimeaeus story precedes the hypocrisy of the Triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem where just days later he would be scandalously crucified. Seeing Bartimeaeus follow him. Take it seriously. I have replied to my letter writer. I have assured him that as a creation of God he is a friend of Jesus just as he is. He may need some help in understanding that he is not what his milieu says he should be. He may need a great deal of gentleness and care to tentatively move toward the historic, authentic, compassionate “lover of souls” Jesus, but that can come in time. If you are reading this, my friend, you are not alone nor is your experience unique. If you are reading this, my friend, there is a place for you in community that is safe and that will love you for who you ARE not who you are not. If you are reading this, my friend, there is a place in heaven for you and on earth as well. You may be blessed but cannot see for your own self loathing. You may be wonderfully adorned with gifts but cannot access them because self hatred is the most powerful force of darkness. If you are reading this, my friend, fear not a faith that embraces and gathers in – it does not cast out. When I read The Good Book who is cast out: demons, power brokers, arrogant and haughty, and those who place self above others; he went to the Temple which he called “my Father’s house” and cast out, drove out those who defiled the holiness that is the very nature of God. They defiled by utter disregard for humanity. If you read this, my friend, reach out to us, your community. Begin an authentic life of discovery that leads to being happy, joyous, and free. Cast off your cloak of self loathing and run and demand that the Son of Man set you free.

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under the gaydar ...from 20 make your experience at Good Friends pleasant. Good Friends is located at 740 Dauphine Street. Make it a point to stop by and let Jake quench your thirst.

Queer Shopping Ahead!

he Krewe of Petronius is presenting their Queer Bar Shopping Network event at the Phoenix on Saturday, November 17. This is always a fun event and it is a great place to pick up those holiday gifts early. They have also been doing a giant raffle at the last few events and the winning tickets will be drawn this night. Winning prizes include three Caribbean Vacations to St. Lucia or Antigua, Spa Atlantis Gift Basket of Products & Gift Card, and a 32" Flat Screen Television. Tickets are one for $5 to five for $20. St. Lucia here I come. The event begins at 7pm and the Phoenix is located at 941 Elysian Fields. For more information, go to www.kreweofpetronius.org.

Time to get Sentimental

here is another reason to travel to the Faubourg Marigny now. Sentiments is a new wine bar that has just recently opened upstairs in the fabulous Feelings Café. To say that this is a romantic oasis is an understatement. Taking over the upstairs private dining area and the cozy tables along the balcony in the courtyard, Sentiments is touted as a wine and cheese dive. But it is so much more, with small plates and French inspired events, this place is a gem for the neighborhood and the entire city. They even have French classes on Thursdays, beginner from 6 – 7pm and advanced from 7:15 – 8:30pm. The price is $25 but also includes a wine and cheese paring. I am always fascinated about people’s stories and I love the owners’ tale of how they came to open Sentiments. Nikki Heathcock and her partner David Lee moved back from France last year. Nikki was there teaching English for almost three years and David came for about seven months to learn about French cuisine. When they returned to NOLA, Dale, one of the owners of Feelings Cafe, approached them about doing something in the space upstairs. Over the years the space had been used for dining and private parties, but originally it was the wine bar, “The Wine Loft.” So they decided to come full circle and create a wine and cheese bar. They had an increased appreciation for wine and cheese from living France. Their grand opening was fittingly on Bastille Day. Adding to their growing number of special events, they are presenting “Dinner and a Movie” on Monday, November 26 featuring “Midnight in Paris.” Chef David Lee will prepare a three-course French inspired dinner with wine paring optional. The cost is $60 per person or $75 with wine. Seating begins at 6:30pm. Sentiments is located at 2600 Chartres Street. For more information or reservations, call 504.881.6529 or email them at sentimentsnola@gmail.com. To check out their website, go to www.sentimentsnola.com.

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Travel Spotlight

all Frolick in Dallas and Fort Worth is just around the corner, and it is assured to be a very good time. Fall Frolick is a celebration of the gay lifestyle in the Big D and Fort Worth areas. North Texas Council of Clubs hosts this event November 16 - 18. North Texas Council of Clubs is a group of organizations from Dallas and Fort Worth Texas. The first purpose of NTXCC is to provide a calendar of events for all member clubs and support them in their efforts in the community. Also a second purpose is to produce Fall Frolick each year. This is Fall Frolick’s second year in existence and from the lineup of locations and parties is pretty extensive. Things kick off on Friday night in Fort Worth with the opening reception and dinner at Club Reflections. Then on Saturday the events move to Dallas. They have an entire day of activities planned starting with breakfast at Woody’s Sports and Video Bar, lunch at the Round Up Saloon, and dinner and hat contest at The Dallas Eagle. Sunday will also be in Dallas with the lunch and Fall Frolick Follies at S4, then the official unofficial after party at the Hidden door, with another event later that night again at The Dallas Eagle. The complete schedule of events and bars may be found by going to NTXCC.org or FallFrolick.com. You can also register for this festive weekend. I cannot wait to play with those hot Texas boys again.

Party Down

all is in the air and the weather has been amazing. And so has the parties as the season has kicked off in full force. My two weeks began on Tuesday night with the unveiling party of the Creole Queen which has just gone through a complete renovation. Constructed in Moss Point, Mississippi, the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen took her maiden voyage on October 1, 1983. She is an authentic paddlewheeler powered by a 24 foot diameter paddlewheel and the most modern, fuel efficient GE diesel-electric system ever installed in a boat of this class. It was a lovely evening as guests were greeted by theme models dressed in Southern belle outfits. We got a chance to

see all the new changes improving this wonderful venue. I know it is very touristy, but there is something magical about taking a riverboat cruise on the mighty Mississippi River. I definitely recommend being a tourist in your own city and checking out the Creole Queen. It is also an excellent party space. After the party, Chris (aka Barbara Ella) and I stopped in to karaoke at Good

Friends. Rikki and DJ P know how to pack the crowds in, and there were plenty of surprisingly good singers that night. You need to check it out, because they always have a lively group and from time to time they give free shots out to the bar. Since it was also Night Out Against Crime, I made a few stops in my neighborhood to investigate some of the events. Cutter’s and JohnPaul’s both had decent crowds supporting the police. On Thursday, my friends Nick, Michelle, Laura and I attended the Reds, Whites and Blues party at the Pavilion of Two Sister in City Park. Proceeds of the event, hosted by Gambit, supports the Big Easy Foundation which presents the annual Big Easy Awards recognizing achievement in music, theater and classical arts. The foundation awards grants in support of area arts and education programs. The night was just splendid mixing and mingling under the stars as we sampled over 200 wines and dined at fare from some delicious local restaurants. My favorite was the popcorn soup by Revolution which is the new restaurant in the Royal Sonesta. The only disappointment of this party was I did not win the 200 plus bottles of wine raffle. Could you imagine, I would have been set for at least another month After the party we traveled to Lee Circle to the quirky and quaint Circle Bar for our friend Libra’s birthday party. Since it was my birthday month also, we all celebrated in style with live music and great friends. I hadn’t been to this bar in years, but the vibe is still the same and it is a cool place to catch great emerging and well known bands. I kicked off the weekend right with the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon’s Let’s Make A Haunted Round of Bingo at JohnPaul’s on Friday night. As always, emcee Todd Thunder was over the top and had the audience laughing non-stop. And his Vanna White looked especially lovely this evening since giving birth to his devil child. This special themed edition of Bingo had lots of unique touches to get people in the Halloween mood, including a costume contest. Since I adore to costume, and I have a horribly competitive nature, I went all out with my dramatic interpretation of a “One Night Stand.” And it paid off since I won the contest, and the prize was a huge score. The grand prize was a customized Brian Peterson wig from Fifi Mahoney’s. I love it so much; I am building my Halloween costume around it. The following day I attended a fundraiser for Buzzy’s Boys & Girls at Cutter’s. This was their annual art auction, "Art In The Hood," which included some noteworthy pieces by some talented artists. There was also a feast for guests included in the price of admission. After that, I bounced with my friend Michelle to another krewe’s soiree which was also in the spirit of the season. The Krewe of Petronius held a murder mystery dinner, entitled “Death of a Drag Queen” at the home of Dr. Marc Behar. Talk about an enjoyable evening, there was great cuisine, flowing libations and dastardly drag queens handing out clues throughout the night. Barbara Ella, Cookie St. Ann, Bootsie deVille, Princesse Stephaney and Lauren Brown were all potential victims, but in the end it was Ms. Brown who bit the dust. I should know; I found the body; and it was nothing pretty. It was a clever game and everyone had an exciting time trying to piece the puzzle together. Again, I turned

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out lucky two nights in a row and figured it all out and got the grand prize which I donated back to the krewe. It is refreshing to see the krewes striving to do new and interesting fundraisers. Sunday was the last Halloween host party before all the festivities the following week. It was at the palatial house of Jim Mounger who probably has one of the best art collections in the city. The party was filled with lots of people ready for the big weekend. There were even a few costumers. There was plenty of vodka and the food was tasty, but personally my favorite part of this host event is the fact I can get to see Jim’s incredible art. That is another reason to become a host next year; you not only get the four days of parties, but eight additional host events at some pretty spectacular places. Halloween may not have been until the following Wednesday, but people celebrated the holiday the week prior in style. My festivities began on Wednesday night at the opening party for the Voodoo Fest on the rooftop of the Ritz Carlton. This was such an extraordinary night it is truly hard to describe how surreal it was to be dancing and drinking under the stars at a costume party overlooking the entire city. Songs like Thriller and other top dance tunes played in the background as guests twirled on the dance floor in the nice crisp weather. Time seemed to stand still for a few hours as my friend Laura and I met all kinds of interesting new people. My favorite was the tall, dark piece of hot man meat dressed as a ringmaster. No shirt and red spandex tights showing off his best attribute was enough to make anyone swoon. Thursday kicked off all the revelries for Halloween 29 with the Lazarus Ball at the Ogden Museum. Guests were able to explore all areas of this world renowned museum while they drank champagne and munched on some great delicacies. But my favorite part is their silent auction, which is truly one of the best at a fundraiser in the city. The Lazarus Ball is a great way to get to meet people coming in for the weekend in a more relaxed setting where you can talk to them easily. And, everyone looks so dapper when they dress up. After the party I met up with friends in the Quarter and partied till the early morning with my friend Josie Mae Cotton (the fabric of your life) and her husband Rudy. It was Josie Mae’s birthday so we spent our night going from bar to bar drinking her free bottles of champagne. I cannot even describe the hangover I had the following day. The next event on Friday was when the exhilaration for the weekend started. Our group danced the night away listening to some incredible music from New York DJ Corey Craig at House of Blues. He was fantastic and kept the dance floor packed all the time. The VIP room this year was also a lot of fun, as the hosts talked about their costumes for the following night. Friday is a great way to get your dance on, and it was so much fun catching up with the ever so enthusiastic premier photographer Steven Forster who was snapping pictures for Halloween. This year the back voodoo lounge was open and it proved to be the right spot to get away from all the madness and talk to people. On Saturday, the day was all about the party. My friend and co-worker Chris came over to my house early to drop off all

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ambush

Oz's 20th Annual Halloween Horror Turn-A-Bout ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin

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Mr. Louisiana Leather Weekend @ the Phoenix, Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest @ Oz ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Al & Dwain, Tony Leggio, Rip Naquin

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Petronius’ Dinner & Death of A Drag Queen @ Behar Home; Satyricon’s Haunted Wheel of Bingo @ JohnPaul’s ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

ambush

under the gaydar ...from 22 the final stuff for our costumes that night. After getting some office work out of the way, we journeyed to the breathtaking party house of Michael and Don called Mimiskido, for pregame merriments. To say this place is a partygoers dream is an understatement, there is a pool, tennis court, basketball goal set-up and a television room/bar to die for. In fact this room is what my heaven will look like. There is even a margarita machine. After trying some specialty cocktails prepared by their flair bartender who knows how to gyrate her shakers, we came back to my place to transform into our alter egos for the night. I have to say Chris is a guru at costume and makeup design. Within two hours, we literally became Joan Crawford and Bette Davis from Whatever Happened to Baby Jane. We drove to the Contemporary Arts Center for the big Saturday night event and made our grand entrance as the “monster” divas of the silver screen. We even had props that night, a glittered wheelchair which Chris was able to be chauffeured around in all night, and a silver domed serving tray with a rat on a plate. In my world, props definitely made the costume and I became quite a pro at whipping around that wheelchair by the end of the night. This party was a total blast, I met so many great people and had so much fun, but lifting that wheelchair into that boxing ring was a challenge. But it all paid off at the end when we took home first place. Everything about this party was good times, from the bounce show to the hot guys undressing into their birthday suits at the entrance’s makeshift locker room. You know it is always a memorable party when they open up with nudity. I have to admit the thing about this night I appreciate the most is meeting so many interesting people. A special shout out needs to go to Chris and Travis from San Diego who were delightful, they made my night even more special than it already was. The last event is one of my high points of the weekend, the Sunday brunch on the Riverboat Natchez. It is a relaxing way to end the festive four day extravaganza. The weather was gorgeous and the hearty fare of fried chicken, red beans and rice, bread pudding and jambalaya was just the right cure for all of us an all-night until the wee hours of the morning partiers. The drinks were abundant as me, my newfound friends and the entire Ambush crew hung out and danced on the top deck to some great music. And the crowning moment was when we docked and they announced the winners of the contest. Chris and I were so excited to go away with one of the top prizes for Best Costume. Congratulations to all those on the board and committees of Halloween New Orleans, they really put on a spectacular event this year. After the boat, Chris and I with our new friend in tow, decided to play in the Quarter and rejoice in our win. We stopped at Oz, Pub, Napoleon’s Itch, Good Friends and Lafitte’s. What an enjoyable time I had hanging out with friends new and old. After exploring the Quarter, I went to the Marigny and stopped at JohnPaul’s and the Phoenix, which was having a Lords of Leather play party. Those guys really know how to cap off the flawless weekend. And to think that Halloween is still not here yet at press time.

have been done before now. Then just maybe you could have done this in stages. So now that my morning drive has been extended, I think of new ways to tackle road rage and find my Zen. I find some of these tips are helpful, both in and out of your vehicle. 1. If at all possible, try and reduce the number of reasons which can make you lose your cool. If you get in a rage because the slow moving traffic is causing a delay in reaching your destination, then try and leave a little earlier than you normally do. Leaving for your office half an hour earlier would surely help as there would be less pressure when the traffic begins to crawl at a slow pace. 2. Try to empathize with others; all the people in front of you are stuck in the same traffic, so being understanding goes a long way to making both your worlds a lot better. 3. Focus on relaxation, whether in the car or dealing with a tough day. Play soothing tapes (or for me gay upbeat pop songs). Do deep breathing exercises, use this time to zone out, enjoy the solitude, these days we rarely get these moments to ourselves. 4. Cut the caffeine before you get in the car in the morning. It

amps you up and there is very little things to do for your body in a car stuck in traffic. Get your coffee when you get to the office or try an herbal tea in the morning to start your day off. They have little to no caffeine, then get your fill once you get to work. 5. Understand the old adage to make lemonade out of lemons. Use the time to catch up with an old friend or family member you very rarely get a chance to speak to. Set up talk times, chances are they are on their way to work too and can use the distraction. 6. But most of all, limit your emotional involvement. It is a drive to work, the other people on the road do not know your name and are not out to get you, Mr. Paranoia. Lighten up, take it easy, both your psyche and your heart will appreciate it.

Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom

hoever came up with the saying “patience is a virtue” obviously has never lived in the Crescent City post Katrina. Seven years after the big storm, and a few other annoying ones (Isaac you jerk), our city still has a long way to go. But we are moving in the right direction; let’s take all the road construction in the city that has been becoming increasingly more difficult to maneuver every day. They close streets without warning and the entire French Quarter looks like a battle zone. Between almost the entire French Quarter being closed during the day, the construction for the streetcar both Uptown and Downtown virtually sealing off that area as well as bottlenecking Poydras and Canal Streets, to the lanes around the Saenger Theatre being closed off due to construction, my ten minute morning commute has turned into thirty-five. That is enough to work even the most stalwart person’s last gay nerve. They call it paths to progress; I call it a nervous breakdown in the making. Honestly, I would love to have five minutes alone with the guy who decided to do all these things at one time. Seriously, I understand getting the city ready for Super Bowl, but shouldn’t these things

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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 Houma LA [985] THE DRAMA CLUB, 126 N. Hollywood, 580.2582 Lafayette, LA [337] 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] 1135, 1135 Decatur St. 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 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829 COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200, CuttersBar.BIZ THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735, KajunPub.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 MICHAEL'S ON THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615, MichaelsOnThePark.COM NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 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 RAINBOW ROOM, 632 Bourbon St., enter thru Fishbowl, 994.1036

SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156. TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, TubbysBar.COM VOODOO BAR, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0953 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

ambushmag.com; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, marsha@ripandmarsha.com

book stores

hair salons

New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700 MR. BINKY'S NEW ORLEANS, 2441 Paris Rd., 270.9900

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

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 [is2012]

circuit/events 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 May 24-27, 2013 Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM Aug. 28-Sept. 2, 2013, 42nd 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. 24-27, 2013, Halloween 30: I3OO, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.COM

costumes New Orleans, LA [504] QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 SOUTHERN COSTUME COMPANY - 951 Lafayette St., 523.4333, SCCNOLA.COM

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

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,

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Nov fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide • GayMar diGras.COM Nov.. 6-19, 2012 • Of Offic

groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

hardware New Orleans, LA [504] MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER HARDWARE, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465

lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, 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] THE FRENCH QUARTER GUEST HOUSES, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 877-681-5087 frenchquarterguesthouses.com. Email: info@stpeterhouse.com. Four meticulously restored boutique Inns located in the heart of the French Quarter’s most popular LGBT neighborhood. Each building’s individual character and charm provides an unforgettably authentic French Quarter experience! FRENCH QUARTER SUITES HOTEL, 1119 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.524.7725, Toll Free: 800.457.2253,FrenchQuarterSuites.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com. Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. 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

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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

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

massage New Orleans, LA [504] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage; heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & thai massage/bodywork). Call 504.458.5996 / website righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is2612]

media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANA ARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATE ARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square,

Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, TuesSun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, TuesSun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

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

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM 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 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, www.bigeasymcc.com, 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 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 Bour-

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • Nov fic ial Gay Mar di Gras Guide • GayMar diGras.COM Nov.. 6-19, 2012 • Of Offic

bon 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 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 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

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New Orleans Fringe Festival at various venues Nov. 14-18

ow in its fifth year, the New Orleans Fringe Festival has become a force to be reck-

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retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423 PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662

oned with. Offering over 70 productions at over 30 locations throughout the city, the Fringe is no longer just a smorgasbord of outre theatrical presentations but a stuffed five days’ worth of entertainments of all types encompassing an extremely wide range of shows, from drama, musicals and comedy to puppetry, opera, dance, circus arts and overall creative madness. There’s a selfguided walking/driving public art tour and, not surprisingly for this city, the beautiful and eccentric GoodChildren Fringe parade which rolls through the Bywater and the Marigny on November 17. One of the more noteworthy trends this year seems to be how many of NOLA’s established theater companies are taking the “if you can’t beat’em, join’em” approach by presenting works under the Fringe umbrella. Southern Rep continues its season with Steve Yockey’s Wolves at The Den of Muses during the Fringe which then moves to the Shadowbox Theatre the following weekend for the rest of its run. Wolves is a sexy, savagely funny fairy tale for grownups in which Ben, a timid young city-dweller, freaks out when his roommate Jack brings home a big bad wolf for a one-night stand. When he tries to “rescue” Jack, Ben sets into motion a dangerous chain of events that will unravel everything in their very small apartment in the very big city. Wolves extends Yockey’s association with Southern Rep which produced his

Afterlife: A Ghost Story a few seasons ago. Wolves is directed by Aimée Hayes and features Andrew Farrier, Taylor McClellan, Ben Carbo, and Kerry Cahill. The NOLA Project follows up its jumbo cast sized Balm in Gilead with a one woman show by Project member James Bartelle. In She Remembers, Agatha, an Angel with amnesia portrayed by Natalie Boyd, wakes up in a familiar theater. The stage is bare except for a mysterious pile of papers. She doesn’t know what else to do, so she begins reading and the mysterious papers turn out to be an unauthorized stage play about an Angel with amnesia. Sounds like an Escher drawing come to life. Fringe showings will be preceded by two performances November 9 and 10 at New Orleans’ newest performance venue, Divine Yoga, located at 1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. Similarly, Skin Horse Theater’s The Importance of Being Earnest will wind up its run at the Contemporary Arts Center with two Fringe-included performances on November 14 and 15. Known for its lucidly fierce Hedwig & the Angry Inch and its grwurgily imaginative adaptation of Lewis Carroll, Snark in the Park/After Dark, Skin Horse is now taking on Oscar Wilde’s timeless comedy about mistaken identity and misplaced handbags. I’ll be interested to see what approach director Garrett Prejean employs—traditional like Slidell Little Theatre’s earlier this year or something outrageous. Either way, the Skin Horses should be up for it.

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William Bowling & Christopher Kaminstein in Instant Misunderstanding Now in their fifth year yet still fairly fringy themselves, Goat in the Road Productions presents its newest original theater work, Instant Misunderstanding, the third piece in a political trilogy (after Whatever Just Happened, Didn’t Happen and Our Man). Instant Misunderstanding is an implosive exploration of technological anxieties in a digital age. Past and present collide in a whirlwind of sandwiches, phone conferences, tea, and computer commands as two brothers, Johannes and Johannes Gutenberg, struggle to invent the internet and propel themselves into a confusing and uncertain future. Instant Misunderstanding was conceived and will be performed by GRP’s

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reVIEW...books, movies, cds by Blanche Email: ambushreview@aol.com Photo by Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

VOTE VOTE VOTE

f things are going as they should, thanks Sandy, you should be reading this on election day. It doesn’t matter if you're sitting on a bar stool enjoying a screwdriver or bloody mary or if you're having breakfast or lunch at your favorite diner ...when you're finished get up and go vote. Times are tough and casting your vote is important. Many years ago one of the local television stations caught me “tipping” out of the fire house on Esplanade, go-cup in hand, after voting. They used this as file footage for every voting story for several years ...my point being, they let me vote. I couldn’t take my beverage of choice in the booth but they let me vote. So please, get up off your ass and go vote...it’s important.

AND NOW TO MY BOOK REPORTS...

EED by Todd Gregory should be out sometime this month. Published by Kensington

trodding the boards ...from 29 William Bowling and Christopher Kaminstein. Written by the duo and collaborator Sascha Stanton-Craven, and directed by Andrew Vaught, it will appear in The Den of Muses on the lakeside of Architect Street. And, lastly, ArtSpot, a local company with an international reputation, is bringing back Kiss Kiss Julie to The Joan Mitchell Center (2275-85 Bayou Road) for the Fringe as well as the preceding Friday through Sunday. As I wrote when I reviewed the production last April, “Using Strindberg’s Miss Julie as a jumping-off point, this meditation on sex, sexuality, gender and power offers vibrant theatrical images, challenging ideas, and a wideranging imagination, yet its power is diffused by its wordiness, and the journey it takes us on is more intellectual than emotional.” Still, the upside is you get to be escorted around the grounds of a 200-yearold home where intimate spectacles await your attention and a little S&M may be in store for you. As for those folks who are coming from beyond the parish lines to participate in the Fringe, I’m looking forward to the return of Desiree Burch whose 52 Man Pick Up was a Festival highlight two years ago. In that solo performance piece, Burch used a deck of cards to take the audience on a wild ride through the many men, and occasional woman, she’d slept with. Her latest work Tar Baby is a retelling of America’s infamous black & white love affair, from shotgun wedding to “post-racial” open relationship. In Tar Baby, which heads to Off-Broadway in January, Burch speaks to a growing majority of minority experiences in America, and promises insights that range from funny to dark and

Books, Gregory is the author of EVERY FRAT BOY WANTS IT and GAMES FRAT BOYS PLAY. He resides in New Orleans. NEED is based on a short story and there is talk of a series based, I’m sure, on how well this book is received by the reading public. NEED is gay porn wrapped around a vampire tale or a vampire tale wrapped around gay porn. There is a lot of sex. Gregory pays homage to Anne Rice and Poppy Z. Brite in his acknowledgments. It has been a long time since INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRES but I remember the sex being sensual, making the idea of vampires sensual. The sex in this book is sex. I’m sure NEED has an audience but I’m a progressive lazy person...I like my porn on video. The story is set in the French Quarter and the references are familiar and current. The narration skips

[continued on 35] satiric to sincere. Using games and other amusements to deal with cultural atrocities, this self-aware, socially conscious comedienne is sure to offer a provocative and amusing take on Race & Capitalism. I’ll definitely be at the Backyard Ballroom (3519 St. Claude) for this one. Though there may be more differences between them than similarities, I’m hoping that Irse Hacia el Norte will be as compelling as 2010’s Crawling with Monsters, a Laramie Project-esque investigation by South Texas college students of the drug-fueled violence across the border in Mexico. Irse Hacia el Norte is based on the experiences of Artzénico, a Guatemalan absurdist theater company, whose members followed a migration route from Guatemala to New Orleans. Beginning on September 23, they took a bus towards the border town of Tecún Umán, the first stop of many along the migrant route towards the United States. Passing through important migration points in Mexico, Arizona, California and ultimately, New Orleans, they visited shelters, cultural centers and organizations involved with immigration. Created as the group traveled, Irse Hacia el Norte will include performers from the folkloric dance group New Orleans Hispanoámerica. New Orleans will be the final stop of the project and the results of the journey from Guatemala will be presented at The Old Firehouse (718 Mandeville St.), a historic, first time Fringemanaged venue. Though the Fringe tends to focus on the “new”, two works by Shakespeare are featured this year; not unexpectedly, neither seem to be in the traditional mold. In the Tremor Theatre Collective’s The Rub, Hamlet’s in the thick of it and “so are we,” as Shakespeare’s classic tragedy is transformed into an absurd dreamscape with uncanny reminders of the present. Queen Gertrude echoes speeches by Gaddaffi, and adopts the mantle of the Queen of Pop in a crumbling world. Having grown out of a response to the Arab Spring and experiences of Occupy Wall Street,

The Rub is an investigation of the anxiety, passion, selfdoubt and desire that come with being heirs to a rotting state. Tremor Theatre collects references from popular culture, literature, music, and personal accounts that represent first hand experiences of disillusionment, and weaves these sources into Shakespeare’s edited text. The company is dedicated to making physical and visual theater that reacts to current affairs. The Rub will play at The Den of Muses, a cavernous and unique warehouse space. If The Rub sounds a bit on the heavy side (hey, it is Stephen Simon and Jon Monastero in Ten Hamlet inspired), Tempting West’s INEFFABLE: a clown exploration of the Air: A gallery of particular mysteries of life, death and hay fever accidents & rough pageantry after Shakespeare’s The Tem- ton Wagon returns to the Fringe with Trash pest seems to promise something lighter. Rabbit, an apolitical exploration of free(Except for its mouthful of a title.) dom, plastic, poverty, religion, and trash. A Random Access Theatre Company collaboration of mime/balancer/juggler brings five actors from New York to the Matthew ‘Poki’ McCorkle and “naturally Fringe to enact a non-linear, gender-bend- flexible” contortionist Ember Bria, Trash ing exploration of Shakespeare’s The Tem- Rabbit delves into the heart of America, pest. To examine our physical and emo- with contortion, mime, magic, and a BB tional responses to chaos, Tempting Air Gun. Strange as this sounds, I seem to re-stages new and old interpretations of recall hearing good things about Button this late dramedy of the Bard and re- Wagon’s last appearance at the Festival imagines traditional relationships between and so plan to head over to the Marigny audience and artist so participants can Opera House (725 St. Ferdinand Street) investigate the classic interplay of storms, to see them. spirits and power. This original ensemble Another physical comedy duo, Ten piece has its performers journey through West, will present, Ineffable: a clown the panic, power struggles, sexual awak- exploration of the mysteries of life, death enings, and hilarity of The Tempest. and hay fever at the Shadowbox TheIn the wake of Hurricane Sandy, it will atre (2400 St. Claude Avenue). Taking on be most interesting to see how these New the theme of Death, Ineffable revolves Yorkers interpret a play about a storm. around the intertwined stories of two PallTempting Air will play at Café Istanbul bearers, Death and the Deceased, in a (2372 St. Claude) which is also the venue ceremony that addresses our collective for Liebe Love Amour!, an epic search for struggle to make sense of our inevitable love; Mum’s the Word about a couple who and ineffable demise. adopt a baby that turns out to be a teenThe Carpetbag Brigade will present aged Somali pirate; and The Chaser, a their acrobatic stilt performance Callings one man, depression-era musical comedy at The Den of Muses. Callings is a poetic of vaudeville madness, and the desire to homage to the sirens of the sea and the be lighthearted in times of troubles. secret intentions within the voices that If you’re looking for something more captivate and haunt us. It examines our traditional, I would suggest Underneath superstitious nature of creating meaning the Lintel, performed by veteran film and and asks us to listen to the world we imbue televison actor Patrick O’Brien. In it, a with the supernatural. Created in 2011, reclusive librarian finds a book 123 years Callings draws on The Brigade’s unique overdue and is compelled to embark on a physical theater vocabulary of acrobatic worldwide quest to track down the bor- stiltwalking, butoh dance and contact imrower. In the process, he uncovers a mys- provisation. tery that transcends the ages. Or might he In Cave Dogs’ Sure-minded Uncerjust be mad? tainties at the Old Firehouse, a range of Despite a mixed NYTimes review fantastical characters and modern day arwhen it opened off-Broadway not long af- chetypes navigate a series of transformater 9/11, the show went on to run over a tions in this exploration of science, techyear (I kept intending to see it but never nology and nature. Cave Dogs perfordid.) and generate productions all over the mances consist of innovative, large-scale world; people seem to respond to its gentle, shadow projections cast onto a screen bittersweet appeal. O’Brien’s production from sculptures, props, costumes, and the comes with a raft of rave reviews from the human body. Dynamic cast shadows move 2011 Minnesota Fringe Festival and the in concert with projected video imagery, 2012 London Fringe Festival. I look for- spoken narrative, and an original ward to finally catching up with Glen soundtrack to create multiple, richly layBerger ’s one man play at the ered imagery. And Death meets his match Michalopoulos Studio (527 Elysian in Mrs. Fischer, a tenacious granny not Fields). ready to breathe her last in Circus fans and those who like any- WONDERHEADS’ whimsical full-face thing that stretches the definition of enter- mask comedy Grim and Fischer at Mardi tainment should have no trouble finding Gras Zone (2706 Royal Street). something for their tastes. Tickets are $8 (with a $3 Fringe button The physical theatre/circus duo But- at NOFringe.ORG). Ready. Set. Go!

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What's Hot ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin

Art In The Hood raises over $7,700 for Buzzy’s Boys & Girls @ Cutter’s ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Rip Naquin

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reVIEW ...from 30 from present day to the past and can, at times, be confusing. I’m sure some will like this book, but to me, there is something missing. ON BEING DIFFERENT, WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A HOMOSEXUAL by Merle Miller was released in September by Penguin Books. Miller (1919-1986 ) was a distinguished presidential biographer, bestselling novelist and influential magazine editor. Two years after the Stonewall riots in New York City he wrote What It Means to Be a Homosexual for the New York Times magazine. It was his “coming out” and a response to a homophobic article in HARPER’S magazine by Joseph Epstein. He bravely put his reputation on the line by writing this ...it was 1971, over 40 years ago ...and it is considered to be one of the earliest works affirming the importance of coming out. It was later expanded into a memoir. The book includes the original essay and letters written by Miller in response to the overwhelming public reaction to the essay. It also includes a forward by Dan Savage, whose It Gets Better project works to combat suicides by bullied teens, especially LGBT children and an afterward by Charles Kaiser, author of THE GAY METROPOLIS, a New York Times book review notable book. Both men credit Merle Miller and the article What It Means to Be a Homosexual with paving the way for their coming out. It will be a reference book to most people but it is a short read and an interesting one ...a glimpse into the beginnings of gay liberation. BORN THIS WAY, Real Stories of Growing Up Gay by Paul Vitagliano is right on topic with the Merle Miller book, just 40 years later. It was published by Quirk Books on October 9, 2012, right before National Coming Out Day. It is based on the blog of the same name, Born This Way. It features 100 photographs and personal narratives about coming out ...from the 1940s to today. Vitagliano is DJ Paul V., a club and radio DJ and an event promoter ...a selfproclaimed “promosexual”. Most of the “narratives’ are from what would be termed ordinary homosexuals, if there is such a thing. Some of the celebs include: Andy Bell - musician and singer for the synth-pop duo

Erasure Billy Brasfield - Billy B. - make-up artist for Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey, Beyonce’, Tina Turner, Debbie Harry, Pink, Missy Elliott, and many more Patrick Bristow - actor, comedian, host of Jim Henson Company’s PUPPET UP!- UNCENSORED live show Kent Fuher - Jackie Beat - drag persona, actor, singer, and songwriter...WIGSTOCK: THE MOVIE and FLAWLESS Barney Frank - the first openly gay member of the U.S. Congress Sutan Amrull - aka Raja Gemini - winner of Season 3 of RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE

Mario Lavandeira - better known as Perez Hilton Noah Michelson - edits Gay Voices at the Huffington Post, senior editor at OUT magazine Michael Musto - blogger, Village Voice columnist ...among others. It is a cute, humorous, small coffee table book. It would be an ideal gift for that nephew, cousin, or friend who is having trouble coming out. Interesting and a fun read.

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