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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

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

2012 into 2013

an that be possible? Where has the year gone? It seems that time flies especially as we get older. Or maybe it is because we are all so busy in our lives filled with work, the home front, relationships, friends, social media, and travel. When we celebrated our 1st anniversary in 1974, things didn't seem to be so complicated as they are today. We worked, we played, we partied, we went home. Maybe watched a little TV or just laid around and talked, and intermingled with each other. That certainly seemed to be enough for us back then. Time travel 39 years and here we are with smart phones, laptops, ipads, computers, 24 hour news, reality TV, sitcoms, shows, and more. It is virtually impossible to escape all of these distractions, and just simply lay back, talk and intermingle with ourselves, family and friends. We are in the midst of the holiday season quickly leading up to a new year. May we make a suggestion? Why not instead of texting or emailing, you actually take the time to speak with, and/or socialize with your loved ones and friends maybe 10 or 15 minutes one or two days a week? There's nothing like hearing that special voice over the phone, or even better, seeing the expression as you speak with that special someone face to face, in person. This is our wish for you this holiday season! And many thanks to all who have made a difference in the community in which we all live with your generosity and camaraderie this year. We at Ambush are extremely grateful for all the good that we've experienced through our clients, readers, family and friends.

Over 1,000 Attendees Raise Over $100,000 for 26th Art Against AIDS benefiting NO/AIDS Task Force

ccording to the NO/AIDS Task Force, "All we can say is 'Wow!' We were totally bowled over by everyone and everything at Art Against AIDS this year! From the art to the food to the entertainment everything was top notch. With over 1,000 people in attendance, the crowd was the largest we have seen in years, making Art Against AIDS THE place to be in New Orleans. Art Against AIDS>>>> Sponsor Ambush & Friends (front: David & Rhonda Roget, Opal Masters & Darwin Reed; back: Frankie Fierce & Dusty Debris, Tony Leggio, Marsha & Rip Naquin-Delain) Photo by Morgan Sasser, MorganSasser.COM

With the museum (New Orleans Museum of Art) awash in red for World AIDS Day, the harmonious voices of Shades of Praise filled the great hall as guests entered, champagne in hand. Throughout the evening, attendees were treated to performances by the Sirens of New Orleans and Big Deal Burlesque produced by Roxie Le Rouge while they sampled cuisine from many of New Orleans finest eateries and enjoyed freely-flowing cocktails.The Holiday Boutique was abuzz with business, thanks to some of the most creative ornaments that we’ve ever seen from our school art program. Of course the centerpiece of Art Against AIDS was once again the art auction. Our artists really outdid themselves this year, donating truly spectacular works of art — and we saw the bidding to match. Once the auction had ended, DJ of the Year Tim Pfleuger of Oz helped people dance the night away in the great hall, while others chose to relax under the stars with an after dinner drink and some great jazz in the Harrah’s Thousand Words Lounge. At the end of the night, thanks to all of our attendees, sponsors, volunteers, artists, restaurants and entertainers, over $100,000 was raised to help men, women and families affected by HIV and AIDS. A huge thank you for your support in helping make the 26th Annual Art Against AIDS a success!"

Gay Mardi Gras 2013

he schedule for Gay Mardi Gras 2013 is available at GayMardiGras.COM. Balls and events as of press time include:

inside

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, MIss Cie & 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 NaquinDelain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and has the right to reject any advertising. The inclusion of an individual's name or photograph in this publication implies nothing about that individual's sexual orientation. Letters, stories, etc., appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of the Publisher or Staff of AMBUSH Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2013, AMBUSH, INC.,ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDINGAD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation

Saturday, January 5th... ~8pm, Krewe of Mwindo Bal Masque XV, Frederick J. Sigur Civic [continued on 8]

31st Anniversary, Mardi Gras Classic out Jan. 8 DEADLINE: Tues., Jan. 2

celebrazzi real estate under the gaydar moment in gay new orleans history snap paparazzi/new orleans snap paparazzi/nola, metairie on the prowl gay mardi gras ambush paparazzi/new orleans king cake queen xx dusty debris

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Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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ar baron Irish Mike served up a huge batch of excellently boiled crawfish, corn on the cob, potatoes and sausage to celebrate Ninth Circle’s 14th Anniversary and Christmas Party in New Orleans bringing in friends and patrons from across the city.

he Bourbon Pub Parade’s Sandy Sachs presented $3,453 to Food For Friends, monies raised at this year’s “Oh, What A Drag!,” during the Pub’s annual Christmas Party in New Orleans. Food For Friends is a vital program of the NO/AIDS Task Force. This was the 20th anniversary of “Oh, What A Drag!,” and Bobby Revere (former owner of the Bourbon Pub Parade) donated $1,000 on behalf of “Oh, What A Drag!” directly to Food For Friends. (Photo: “Oh, What A Drag’s” Cowboy Dave & Marc Anthoni with Food For Friends Bobby Vallecillo)

elle Reve’s Steve Lorio accepts an Ambush check for $100 from Monica SynclaireKennedy, her winnings from the Ambush Flashback Contest where Monica guessed correctly the identity of Rona Conners from a photo of Rona at 11 years old.

ewly crowned Miss Tubby’s Golden Lantern Gia GiaVanni and 1st alternate Legacy Lopaz celebrate following the pageant which brought forth five contestants at Tubby’s Golden Lantern in New Orleans. Miss Tubby’s Golden Lantern 2010 Rikki Redd and Lantern show director Andy Ehlers emceed the pageant featuring entertainment from returning Miss Tubby’s Golden Lantern Starr Alexander, Cougar Cabaret’s Tami Tarmac and Golden Age Revue’s Eva Las Vegas.

atilda, Princesse Stephaney, Lady Facelle, Maybelline Maskara, Natasha Sinclair and Bootsie DeVille take to the stage for the Krewe of Petronius’ Gospel Brunch & Show hosted on the patio at 4 Seasons in Metairie.

s the Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby’s Golden Lantern hosted a “Make It Right” event after $2,600 raised for Belle Reve during Southern Decadence was not presented to the charity. The Lantern believes that Belle Reve did not deserve this and the wonderful tradition of Southern Decadence did not deserve a bad reputation because of it. With the help of many local businesses who donated gifts and raffles, entertainers who donated their talents for the show, proceeds from the Angola Prison Rodeo bus trip, and the generosity of GL’s friends and wonderful customers, $3,297 was raised for Belle Reve. Many thanks! (Photo: GL manager Lance Pippin & Belle Reve’s Steve Lorio with GL bar baron Rick Goulet, bartender Wilhemina, MC Jessica McGee & show director Andy Ehlers)

t. Anna’s Arts for Kids representatives Don, Gary, Luigi and Rusty join Phoenix bartender Wayne for Wayne’s 4th annual Holiday Toy Drive benefiting the children's group from St. Anna’s Episcopal Church with a truck load of gifts for this holiday season at The Phoenix in New Orleans.

ip and Marsha Naquin-Delain won the Krewe of Amon-Ra Gumbo Cook-off winning $100 from Queen and King Amon-Ra XLVII Barry Rutherford and David Forth at Tubby’s Golden Lantern in New Orleans. Out of five entries, Rip and Marsha’s Debris Gumbo made with turducken, okra, and alligator sausage garnered the most votes by tasters. Other tasty entries came from Pete Eschete (Vegan Gumbo), Tittie Toulouse (Chicken & Sausage File Gumbo), Ron Issler and Stuart Nettles (Chicken, Sausage & Shrimp Gumbo), and Paul Davis (Shrimp & Crab Gumbo).

he New Orleans Bear & Bear Trapper Social Club presented over $2,900 to Buzzy’s Boys & Girls’ Steve Tregre at their holiday social in New Orleans.

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MARDI GRAS (Fat Tuesday), February 12th... ~12noon, 49th Annual Bourbon Street Awards, Oz, Corner of St. Ann at 800 Bourbon St. ~2pm - 26th Annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss led by King Cake Queen XX Dusty Debris as The Platinum Queen, Ambush Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St.

Amazing Race Cast Sends Messages of Love to Anti-Gay Bullied Middle Schooler the "official" dish ...from 4 Center, New Orleans Friday, January 11th... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque XI, Sugar Mill, New Orleans Saturday, January 12th... ~8pm, Krewe of Amon-Ra Ball XLVIII, Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, New Orleans Saturday, January 19th... ~8pm, Krewe of Petronius Bal Masque LII, Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, New Orleans Saturday, January 26th... ~8pm, 20th King Cake Queen of Gay Mardi Gras Coronation presenting The Platinum Queen Dusty Debris, by invitation only Friday, February 8th... ~9pm-12midnight, Friday Night Before Mardi Gras Extravaganza XIV, Audubon Tea Room, New Orleans Saturday, February 9th... ~9pm, Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLV, Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, New Orleans Sunday, February 10th... ~8pm, Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXX, Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, New Orleans Monday, February 11th... ~9pm-2am, Lords of Leather present Night of the Black Mask: The South’s Oldest Leather Block Party, Phoenix/ Eagle, Elysian Fields @ N. Rampart, New Orleans

hen the Beekman Boys won The Amazing Race, they were inundated with congratulations …but one particular note stuck out to them from a mother of a 12-year old boy who has been wrestling with feeling like an underdog, misunderstood and bullied. Colin is young, gay and dealing with life as an outsider in middle school. So moved by the note from Colin’s mother, Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge (Team Beekman) asked the entire Amazing Race cast to submit images of support for the boy and a dedicated blog post showing their love and support for Colin. A devoted page post on the Beekman’s website is now live and the images from the entire Amazing Race cast showing their love and support for Colin are available at http:// beekman1802.com/colin-youre-amazing/. Colin and his mother are seeing these for the first time, too. Colin’s mother wrote, “I’m sure you guys are way too busy to read this, but I want you to know how inspirational you two are to my 12-year old son. He is gay and is dealing with bullying and harassment in middle school. It’s so hard to see him going through this, and sometimes the 'It Gets Better' message is lost on a 12-year old who feels that middle school will never end…We cheered you on every Sunday night and agonized every time you had difficulties. My son was so incredibly thrilled

when you two won last night (as was I!). Thank you for helping him see that not only DOES it get better, it gets AMAZING.”

Louisiana Ranked 1st in U.S. for Gonorrhea & Syphilis Case Rates & in Top 3 for Chlamydia Case Rates

he Centers For Disease Control & Prevention released their Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Surveillance Report for 2011 which reports “the latest national data on reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis . . . . The report finds that STDs continue to threaten the health and well-being of millions of Americans, particularly gay and bisexual men and young people.” In addition to compiling and analyzing data, the CDC also “ranks” states and major metropolitan areas in order of their respective STD case rates, which is defined as cases per 100,000 population. In 2011, the state of Louisiana was found to have the highest case rates for gonorrhea and primary & secondary syphilis. In the case of syphilis, Louisiana’s case rate is 9.9 cases per 100,000 people, more than twice the national average of 4.5 cases per 100,000. According to a CDC email announcing the release of the report, “Trend data available for the first time this year show that primary and secondary syphilis cases – the most infectious stages of the disease — are increasing among gay and other men who have sex with men, who now account for more than 70 percent of all infections. If not adequately treated, syphilis can lead to paralysis, dementia and death. Syphilis infection can also place a person at increased risk for HIV infection. Given the high prevalence of HIV in the gay community, increasing syphilis infections among gay and bisexual men are particularly troubling.” Additionally, Louisiana ranked 3rd for chlamydia case rates, behind Alaska

(1st) and Mississippi (2nd). Of note is that among major metropolitan areas, New Orleans was 4th in the nation for chlamydia rates. The full report can be found on the CDC’s website: http://www.cdc.gov/ std/stats11/default.htm. “Louisiana, like the rest of the South, continues to see high rates of STD’s and HIV/AIDS. These numbers drive home the need for being out in the community with strategies ranging from testing and support to helping people learn to make healthy choices. Unfortunately, while rates climb, funding seems to decrease, causing organization such as NO/AIDS to focus their efforts on the most affected key populations, namely minority youth and gay and bisexual men, instead of a more community wide approach,” said Jean Redmann, Director of Prevention for NO/AIDS Task Force. Earlier this year, NO/AIDS Task Force launched a new program, The New Orleans Gay Men’s Wellness Project which is focused on community health and wellness, with an emphasis on HIV prevention and STD screenings, for Gay and Bisexual men of New Orleans and surrounding areas. Through various health and wellness focused events, classes, workshops and activities they aim at promoting community health for the LGBTQ popu[continued on 10]

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real estate Buying & Financing a Rental Home

ith property values rising, and the economy continuing to turn more and more people into home-renters instead of home-buyers, now is a fantastic time to purchase a rental home and become a landlord. Higher rents, added equity with each passing month and a slew of qualified renters to choose from = success. Like any business, starting a rental property business has start-up costs involved ~ if you have solid credit and a nest-egg you can put towards a down payment, are organized enough to handle the details of leases, deposits, maintenance and repairs..., it’s a great side business. To purchase a home as a simple rental property, you’ll have to plan on a 25% down payment. As a Non-Owner Occupant (NOO) your costs on a mortgage are slightly higher than they would be as an owner occupant. With current loan rates, you can likely get a 4.5% 30-year loan. Of course if you have the flexibility, you can buy as an Owner Occupant (OO) with as little as 3.5% down. To qualify as an OO you need to actually live in the property as your principle residence for at least 24 months ~ check with your mortgage lender to determine the amount of time you need to live in the home before you can rent it. You will be purchasing this home as your personal residence, so it makes for a good first investment property. With getting started in the rental game, these costs and fees can be daunting, what can you do if you’re unable to purchase it as an owner occupant? Find a property that already has renters living in the home. You’re going to face the fees involved in a “non-owner occupant” purchase, but you can help in the loan process by showing instant income from the existing tenants. They can help offset downpayments with their first month’s rent and deposit, and you won’t have any “lag time” between purchase and your first month’s worth of payments.

Purchasing a home as a rental property involves a great deal of preparing, paperwork, and financial investment, but the added income you’ll see will make it more than worth your while as long as you plan carefully before diving in. For expert advice on buying your first rental home or condominium, contact any of the top gay realtors at GayRealEstate.com ~ free buyer representation.

the "official" dish ...from 8 lation of the area. The project also offers the area’s only free STD screenings and is able to connect those who test positive to care and treatment. The New Orleans Gay Men’s Wellness Project is funded through the Louisiana Office of Public Health. STD screenings are available on Wednesdays from noon to 7:30pm at the NO/ AIDS CAN Office at 507 Frenchmen Street. Appointments are highly encouraged. More info on STD screenings and the New Orleans Gay Men’s Wellness Project is available at: http:// www.noaidstaskforce.org/nogmwp. For over 29 years, NO/AIDS Task Force has been providing hope, care and compassion to thousands of men, women and families affected by HIV & AIDS in Southeast Louisiana. The Task Force acknowledges that the complications of HIV-disease are not just physical, but mental, emotional and social as well. That is why the agency offers a full spectrum of care at low to no cost, including services such as: an HIV medical clinic, food pantry, home delivered meals, housing, mental health, medications, and many others. NO/AIDS also remains committed to the health of the entire community and reaches over 20,000 each year through HIV prevention education efforts. For more information, please visit www.noaidstaskforce.org.

New FBI Data Shows Hate Crimes Based on Sexual Orientation on the Rise

or the first time, crimes directed against individuals on the basis of sexual orientation are the second most frequent hate crime committed after crimes based on race, according to the 2011 Hate Crimes statistics released by the FBI as part of the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program. Surpassing crimes committed on the basis on religion, the number of reported hate crimes committed against gay men and lesbians increased from 1,277 in 2010 to 1,293 in 2011. “The 2011 FBI hate crimes data is a sad reminder that even as we make great strides toward equality under the law, LGBT people in face dangers in America,” said Human Rights Campaign (HRC) President Chad Griffin. “We must rid our country of the violence that has devastated our community for far too long.” Hate crimes statistics are submitted to the FBI by law enforcement agencies across the country on a voluntary basis – there is no requirement under the law for agencies to submit the data. In 2011, the number of agencies reporting this data dropped to 14,575, a decrease from 14,977 the previous year. Of these data-submitting agencies, only 1,944 reported even a single hate crime to the FBI, the lowest number of agencies reporting one or more hate crimes since 2002. Reporting hate crimes to the FBI is a criterion in HRC’s new Municipal Equality Index (MEI), the first ever rating system of LGBT inclusion in municipal law, which was released in November. Such reporting demonstrates law enforcement’s attention to such crimes and ensures that the larger law enforcement community is able to accurately gauge the scope of and responses to hate crimes. Crimes reported to the FBI involve those motivated by biases based on race,

religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity/national origin, and disability. Currently, the FBI does not collect data on hate crimes committed on the basis of gender identity. Under the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, the FBI will begin collecting this data in 2013 and will report these statistics beginning in 2014. HRC and partner organizations have worked with the FBI to implement changes to hate crimes data collection since the passage of the Act in 2009, assisting in updating the agency’s crime reporting form and training materials to include gender identity. “We commend the FBI for recognizing the needs of transgender Americans, who face violence at alarming and disproportionate rates,” added Griffin. Hate crime data will help law enforcement agencies better understand how to serve and protect the LGBT community.” FBI Hate Crimes Statistics can be viewed at: http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/cjis/ ucr/hate-crime/2011.

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

Satyricon Presents 12 Night

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is having its glamorous 12th Night Ball on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013 from 7-10pm at the elegant Uptown mansion of Dr. Marc Behar and his partner Jeff Sbisa. Come out and support the krewe as they kick off the Carnival season in stylish fashion. This black tie optional event is one of the most popular events of the season. Tickets are $30 and include scrumptious cuisine, an open bar, silent auction and entertainment. Every person who buys a ticket is included in the drawing for the king and queen of 12th Night. If you are the lucky winners, you get two tickets to the ball and will be presented as part of our court. This year, there will be some secret special festive highlights to the event.

The theme, king and queen will also be announced at the party. For more information or tickets call 504.415.6476. The event will be held at 1422 Jackson Avenue.

Light Up The Night

t is never too early to start thinking about Mardi Gras. Trust me ladies and gentlemen; it is right around the corner. One of the most fabulous events in the city during the season has just publicized its theme and it is going to be an incredible night of drinking, dancing and costumes. The Friday Night Before Mardi Gras is presenting Extravaganza XIV Le Tableau Des Flambeaux at the Audubon Tea Room on Friday, Feb. 8, 2013. Tickets are now on sale for this noteworthy event. I have been the past few years and can attest that it is quite the good time. I even won the costume contest last year. From the delicious food to the dazzling costumes, this is one of the must attend fetes during Carnival time. Your ticket includes a premium open bar, elegant cuisine, free photographs, a costume contest with prizes, a raffle with fabulous prizes and a silent auction with original artwork. Reserved tables may also be purchased. For tickets, go to www.fridaynightbeforemardigras.com or call 504.821.2601 ext. 216.

Book of the Month

y book of the month for December caught my interest when it first came out, but with my busy schedule, I just got around to reading it. The Bad Life by Frederic Mitterrand is the so-called autobiography of the French Minister of Culture and Communication who has been an actor, screenwriter, television presenter, writer, producer and director. Born in Paris, he is the nephew of François Mitterrand, who was the President of France from 1981 to 1995. The novel itself has a bit of controversy behind it as the author was accused of participating in sexual misconduct. I have to admit, this was a difficult book to get through. At times it rambles jumping from story to story without an easy transition. But there were some interesting sections of the novel, mostly the ones when he talks about his sexuality. He freely admits in the book how he regularly pays for sex; and the parts about the brothels he visited and it’s workers kept my interest. There are many movie stars, politicians and world renowned celebrities mentioned in his stories. The chapter about Quentin, a onetime dear friend of Mitterrand who turned out to be a Talented Mr. Ripley who murdered his entire family was riveting. What I found thought-provoking was the cultural differences of growing up gay in France and their attitude towards homosexuality during that time period. And who says you cannot learn anything new. I never knew anything about sexual tourism before reading this book. In many of his travels abroad, Mitterrand visited many houses of ill repute. So the saying is definitely true, one night in Bangkok does make a hard man humble.

Curtains Up

ivertown Theatres for the Performing Arts is hosting a season Announcement Celebration on Friday, Jan. 4, 2013 from 710pm at the theatre. Be among the first to hear about the exciting line-up for the 2013-2014 season. There will be musical performances from all next season’s shows and a sneak peek number from the Class of ’70 Something. Artistic Directors Kelli Fouchi and Gary Rucker have an entertaining night planned for guests. Tickets are $40 and includes food by Twelve Seasons Catering, an open bar, performances and a unique theatrical silent auction. Reservations are required and tickets are limited. For more information or tickets, call 504.461.9475 or go to www.RivertownTheaters.com. The theatre is located at 325 Minor Street in the quaint [continued on 13]

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under the gaydar ...from 12 Rivertown area of Kenner.

And Even More Theatre News

ummer Lyric Theatre at Tulane University has just announced their new 2013 season and subscribers and theatre

goers are in for a treat. Their season starts with La Cage aux folles June 20 – 23, 2013, then A Little Night Music July 11 – 14, 2013 and concludes with Kiss Me Kate Aug. 1 – 4, 2013. A gift certificate to one or all of these shows would make a great present for the holidays. Tickets to the public will go on sale on March 11, 2013. For more information or to get a gift certificate,

call 504.865.5269.

Spa Atlantis' New Location

he owners and staff at Spa Atlantis have many things to be thankful for this holiday season. They have a thriving business popular with locals and visitors to the

city alike and are growing. In August they opened their second location, Spa Atlantis French Quarter at 536 Bienville Street. Forget the hustle and bustle of the holidays as you step into this tranquil environment situated in a historic building in the Vieux Carre. And this is an ideal place to get those last minute [continued on 14]

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under the gaydar ...from 13 holiday gifts. Pamper the ones you love (or yourself for that matter) at Spa Atlantis. Come and check out the facilities, either in the Quarter or their other location in the CBD at 740 Gravier Street. Huge allies of the gay community, owner Richard Borne and his staff (especially the lovely Andrea) can always be seen supporting functions for gay carnival krewes and numerous fundraisers, so this is a choice opportunity to give back to those who help us. For more information on Spa Atlantis, go to www.spaatlantis.net.

Update on Broadway at NOCCA

wo more famous Broadway stars are adding their talent to the line-up at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA). Five of the entertainment world’s leading ladies will perform in New Orleans as Seth Rudetsky’s popular Broadway Concert Series makes the leap to NOCCA’s Lupin Hall from its summer home at The Art House in Provincetown, MA. Patti LuPone, twotime Tony winner for Gypsy and as the legendary original Evita, will appear for two shows only on Monday, Jan. 7 at 6:30 and 8:30. Sutton Foster, twotime Tony-winner for this year’s Anything Goes and previously for Thoroughly Modern Millie and star of the ABC Family series Bunheads arrives for one show only on March 2 at 7:30. Megan Mullally, two-time Emmy-winning star of TV’s Will and Grace and star of Broadway’s Young Frankenstein performs two shows only on April 6 at 7:30 and 9:30. Audra McDonald, a five-time Tony Award winner and recent star of Porgy and Bess on Broadway and TV’s Private Practice will make her New Orleans debut with two shows only on May 18 at 7:30 and 9:30. Betty Buckley, the Tony winning legendary star of Cats and Sunset Boulevard will close the series on June 1 with two shows only at 7:30 and 9:30. The visiting Broadway artists will also be giving master classes for the NOCCA Institute’s high school-aged musical theatre students. All five concerts are produced by Mark Cortale, long time producer/manager of Jeffery Roberson aka Varla Jean Merman, and will be hosted by Sirius/XM radio star Seth Rudetsky at the piano. The series is sponsored exclusively by the New Orleans Hotel Collection and Gambit. Tickets can be purchased at www.broadwaynola.com or by calling 800.838.3006.

Party Down

othing says the holidays like excessive partying, and in this city they are a plenty. Let’s begin the two weeks on

Tuesday with the re-opening of La Louisiane Restaurant in the French Quarter. The once famous restaurant has been dormant for many years. Now revamped, it will soon become a bar/bistro and venue space. So many memories of the eatery came flooding back to me as I attended their reopening party. The food and drinks flowed as the hospitality industry got reacquainted with an old friend. I cannot wait to attend more events there. The Art Against AIDS Patron Party was held on Wednesday and this year was quite unique. They offered guests a progressive party at two galleries on Julia Street that represent the honorary chairs this year Lin Emery and Skylar Fein. The evening started out at Arthur Rogers Gallery with light hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and music; then we moved to Jonathan Ferarra’s Gallery for desserts and after dinner drinks. Patrons were able to mingle with both of the chairs who are incredible talents in the art scene. Emery is a kinetic sculpture artist who uses wind, water and magnets to propel her work. Her pieces can be seen throughout the United State and the Far East. Fein creates two- and three-dimensional works from materials found on the streets of New Orleans, as well as from sources like comic books and mass-produced commodities such as bulletproof glass. Fein first gained acclaim at the Dan Cameron curated inaugural Prospect.1 Biennial, New Orleans, with his installation, Remember the Upstairs Lounge, a multimedia piece about a fatal 1973 New Orleans fire at a gay bar that killed thirty-two and injured dozens. The patron party was a wonderfully elegant prequel to the coming attractions of the weekend. I was in the holiday season before Thanksgiving even came, my tree was up and house decorated festively. But it was not until Thursday, that I attened my first official Christmas party when Gambel Communications got a jump start on the season with their holiday celebration at their offices. There was great food supplied by my favorite restaurant Le Meritage and a special martini bar from the Hotel Monteleone with the famous Marvin doing the cocktails. The ladies and one gentleman at Gambel know how to bring on the Kris Kringle as guests enjoyed live music. Friday I had a more relaxed night taking in a play, Shanghai, at the Allways Lounge. Saturday was hectic from sunup to sundown. As event chair for Art Against AIDS, I spent the day at the New Orleans Museum of Art making sure everything was in place. I had literally one hour to go home throw on a tuxedo and be back to greet guests. Not to be bias, but the party was truly a spectacular evening. From the moment guests arrived they were greeted by booming carols from Manhein Steamroller and Trans-Siberian Orchestra to

set the tone. The entire façade of the museum was uplit red with the logos of the event scrolling across the front. They had champagne served on a gorgeous model in a dress that was actually made of metal and the glasses sit right on her in little holders. It was on wheels to allow her to glide easily around; what a great concept, the bar comes to you. Once inside, the main gallery was transformed into a disco with color changing LED lights and music from Oz DJ Tim Pflueger. The silent auction was probably one of the best ones and the food was superior with all the participating restaurants serving their best dishes. There were so many people reaching an attendance of 1,000 guests. From the Harrah’s Lounge located in the courtyard with sultry singers to the retail section, every aspect of the night shined. I would like to congratulate everyone at the NO/AIDS Task Force for a job well done as well as everyone who worked on the board and the committees. Sunday was a day devoted to two of the gay carnival krewes in New Orleans. The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon held its annual holiday auction and buffet at JohnPaul’s. Every year the krewe throws a holiday season celebration filled with great food, unique auction prizes and some fun entertainers doing holiday numbers. As captain, I would like to thank all those who have been supporting us throughout the year; we cannot wait for the ball. After Satyricon, I traveled to Metairie to attend the Krewe of Petronius’ Gospel Show at Four Seasons Lounge. The “ladies” made sure everyone had the holy spirit in them as they did some rousing numbers. It was the perfect Sunday with good friends, amazing weather and inspirational music. This city’s hospitality community spread holiday cheer on Wednesday at their annual yuletide season fundraiser at the Joy Theatre. Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the National Association of Catering and Events (NACE) and the International Society of Event Specialists (ISES) joined together to host this fete that had a champagne bar, food from a dozen different restaurants and caterers, live entertainment from the band No Idea and a silent auction. The next night, I went to the grand opening of Spa Atlantis’ new location in the French Quarter on Iberville Street. It is always a treat to hang out with Richard, Andrea and the entire staff. You need to check the space out. On Friday, my schedule was a whirlwind. My friends Beaux, Barrett and I went to social butterfly Cheryl Lemoine’s holiday party at her well-appointed home in Mid City. As always, the champagne streamed, the food was delectable and the guests were an enjoyable eclectic mix. I always relish her party, because I meet so many new people. We

followed her party up with another house party at Ashley, Vickie and Leann’s condominium. Now this is where the cocktails got serious. These people know how to make some serious bourbon eggnog. After getting well liquored, we made our way to JohnPaul’s for the New Orleans Pride’s Holiday Winter Wonderland hosted by the ever so talented Johnny Passion with a little help from moi. It was packed as some of the city’s top entertainers performed holiday numbers; I even have to say my Elton John rendition of Step Into Christmas was pretty good, albeit I had some help from the hunky Mark Callahan. We raised a lot of money and it was so heartwarming to celebrate a very Pride-filled holiday. Saturday was another laid back evening; I took in the show M Butterfly at the Shadowbox Theatre. It is so energizing to see so many little theatres cropping up and thriving in our city. Sunday was another marathon day beginning with the Amon-Ra Gumbo Cook-off at the Golden Lantern. There were so many grand entries, but it was Rip and Marsha from Ambush Magazine’s lip-smacking New Orleans favorite that won the prize. Then I went to designer Jose Luis and his partner Rene’s holiday open house. Creative people always have the best decorations and these guys outdid themselves this year. A bare branch tree painted black with hanging ornaments towered over guests’ heads as they enjoyed drinks and party food. They transformed their French Quarter apartment into a modern Winter Wonderland. I finally ended my evening at the home of Dr. Marc Behar and his partner Jeff Sbisa for their delightful Chanukah party. They are the ultimate hosts welcoming a very diverse group of guests as we had traditional Jewish fare, their potato latkes were amazing. The highlight of the night was playing the gift exchange. That ends my two weeks of parties, events and plays. There is still more to come as we near the New Year.

Tony’s Tidbits of Gay Wisdom

o this may be my last article according to the Mayans. Yes, ladies and gentleman, three days after Ambush comes out, the world is set to end on 12/21/12. Doomsday fanatics have been heralding the end of days for years now and it is finally upon us. Websites have been set up to tell you how to survive this global apocalypse. From getting weapons to stocking up on supplies, survivalists around the world are bracing themselves. But we have been through this before; remember the rapture. [continued on 16]

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

“Here Cums Mr. Bingle”

ake it or leave it, Christmas is here and all we can do is either enjoy it or suffer through it, depending on your perspective. As Western society acknowledges the advent of 2,000 years of sexual repression, my thoughts turn to anonymous sex. Allow me to explain. For generations of New Orleanians, Christmas meant not only Papa Noel but also Mr. Bingle. Who, you ask? Mr. Bingle was a beloved Christmas icon here in New Orleans for decades. Back in the years before it went all fast food and tacky tourist shops, Canal Street was lined with high end department stores and specialty shops, and was

under the gaydar ...from 14 What are my thoughts on the matter? I turned to my good friends of Wikipedia (which I love) to help me find a glimmer of hope. I just cannot believe, we are going to all bite the dust during the holiday season, not to mention Super Bowl in NOLA is just around the corner. I am quite too busy for the world to end. How rude! According to them an apocalypse is translated literally from Greek and refers to a revelation of something hidden, although this sense did not enter English until the 14th century. In religious contexts it is usually a revelation of hidden meaning - hidden from human knowledge in an era dominated by falsehood and misconception. In the Revelation of John, the last book of the New Testament, the revelation which John receives is that of the ultimate victory of good over evil and the end of the present age, and that is the primary meaning of the term, one that dates to 1175. Today, it is commonly used in reference to any prophetic revelation or so-called end of the world in general. I tend to agree with many people that we are on the cusp of a new age and how we meet the challenges of this knowledge and power will correlate with our future. The technology today has surpassed anything I would have thought of twenty years ago. Remember the size of cell phones in the eighties (or beepers). Equality for all beings on this planet is at the forefront from civil rights to gay marriage. Protection of our planet and resources are becoming an increasing concern in everyone’s life. Change is difficult and scary. It is our normal inclination to resist, but if we welcome it and adapt, I know we can face anything. That being said, didn’t

considered the city’s premiere shopping destination. During the holiday season, decorators worked tirelessly to transform store windows into fabulous wintry display cases. One department store, Maison Blanche (now the Ritz Carleton Hotel), outdid all the other stores in 1947. Store decorator Emile Alline created a lovable snowman and called him Mr. Bingle. When the fifty foot papier-mache’ Mr. Bingle appeared on the Maison Blanche building, New Orleans knew the Christmas Season had arrived. As Santa’s helper, Mr. Bingle was a big hit with children and adults. In the 1950s, Alline hired Oscar Isentrout, a master puppeteer in the French Quarter, to produce Mr. Bingle anyone ever stop to think that the Mayan guy in charge of the calendar quit or died and no one took his place? Maybe his department was downsized, although termination during that time was lethal. But in true Britney Spears fashion, the dance raves and parties are gearing up in our city. We have hurricane parties ...did you think New Orleanians would miss an opportunity to throw one last bash for the end of days. That is where I will be spending my evening; with friends eating, drinking and making merry. But on the off chance a higher power deems it necessary to end life on our planet, thank you to all my family and friends who have supported me; and to the faithful readers of Ambush, let’s go really check out what is over the rainbow. Somehow though I have this feeling that we will all wake up the next morning, with nothing more than a severe hangover. So to one and all, have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. If you have an event, story or idea, you want covered, contact me at ledgemgp@gmail.com.

AMBUSH

MAG.COM 828

The Story of Mr. Bingle: When Santa left his shop one day He found a snowman near his sleigh... "You'll be my helper now," he said, And tapped the little fellow's head. The snowman laughed and sang a jingle, So Santa named him "Mr. Bingle." That's how it happened. Now he's here with us at Maison Blanche all year! marionette shows in the Maison Blanche storefront window. Mr. Bingle went on to have his own radio and television shows. What does all this have to do with anonymous sex? Mr. Bingle recalls the bygone era of the great Canal Street department stores—D.H. Holmes, Maison Blanche, Krauss, Gus Mayer, Kreeger’s, and Godchaux’s. It may be hard for some to fathom now, but in the 1950s and 1960s, long before sex networking websites and apps like Grindr, these department stores were prime cruising grounds for gay men. The men’s bathroom at D.H. Holmes was a particularly active spot for businessmen looking to hook up during their lunch-breaks. There were a few gay bars, of course, but that was risky. Just being in a “queershop,” as they were called then, was dangerous because the police often sent undercover vice squad officers into them to make arrests. And arrests were usually accompanied by a beating and a public outing in the next day’s paper. There was also the fear of being seen entering or exiting the bars. It’s important to remember that not only were homosexual acts illegal then, being gay was also considered a mental disorder at the time. Horny men looking for some action had to weigh the benefit of getting their rocks off with the potential cost of jail-time or a stint in a psychiatric hospital (can you say electric shock treatments—ouch!). Nevertheless, the few gay bars that did exist did host some sexual activity, especially Café Lafitte in Exile, the oldest gay bar in the city. In fact, by 1966, Lafitte’s reputation as a cruise bar had caught the attention of the United States Navy. In that year, the local Naval Commander sent a letter to the bar’s owner informing him Lafitte’s had been “declared off-limits and outof-bounds to personnel of the Armed Forces.” To this day, the letter is on proud and permanent framed display on the wall near the front door of the bar. The ban probably did not have the effect the Navy desired because there were a number of “Greek sailor bars” on Decatur Street which were primarily

the domain of straight female hookers but also tolerated gay hustlers. There were a few bars that welcomed working boys, notably Wanda’s on Iberville, and perhaps more common were certain areas in the French Quarter where hustlers slowly strolled along the sidewalk or hung out on corners waiting for closeted men to drive by and pick them up. These included the lower Quarter on the lakeside of Bourbon Street and the old Tango Belt in the upper Quarter. The bathhouse on Toulouse and cruise bars such as Jewel’s Tavern, Rawhide and the Phoenix would come later. For those men too timid to go to the bars or pick up street hustlers, there was always the New Orleans Athletic Club on North Rampart Street or the parks. Cabrini Park (now commonly referred to as the dog park) saw so much action, much of its shrubbery had to be removed in order to prevent men from having sex in the bushes. In the summer of 1976, seventy men were arrested in City Park and Audubon Park during a one month period on charges of obscenity or crimes against nature. Cruising today is not nearly as dangerous as it used to be. Many would say that is a good thing but others might see it differently. Exchanging body stats and d**k pics online is certainly convenient but missing in the transaction is the element of suspense that comes with live, face to face cruising—the furtive glances, the hope of orgasm, the fear of rejection. And gone, now, perhaps forever, is the slight thrill of fear that comes with uncertainty. Is this guy a vice cop? Is he even gay? Is he going to hit me if I make a pass at him? So this Christmas season, as you shop for gifts at the mall, remember your gay forefathers. Remember the ones who were so closeted they had to cruise department store bathrooms, but also remember the ones who proudly paved the way for you to be out today. Open cruising is a great gift that would not have been possible without them.

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Bartender Wayne host his 4th Holiday Toy Drive benefiting St. Anna’s Arts for Kids of St. Anna's Episcopal Church @ The Phoenix

Darrin & Robbie join French Market Corporation’s Frank Pizzolato @ Bourbon Pub Parade Christmas Party

Ambush’s Paul & Voodoo’s Greg @ Ninth Circle’s 14th Anniversary

Bryan Batt & Beaux @ 26th Art Against AIDS Deneen Tyler, Bruce, Ben & Kathy in for Wayne’s 4th Holiday Toy Drive @ The Phoenix

Entertainer of the Year Monique Michaels & partner Jason Emrick in for Bourbon Pub Parade Christmas Party

Ninth Circle bartender TJ, DL & Country Club’s Drew @ Ninth Circle’s 14th Anniversary Joining Wayne’s 4th Holiday Toy Drive @ The Phoenix

Ninth Circle DJs Duane Parrish & Plez join Ninth Circle’s 14th Anniversary blowout

Friday Night Before Mardi Gras’ Billy Henry, Ron Issler & Stuart Nettles @ Art Against AIDS Jerry, Blake, Barrett & Beaux @ Bourbon Pub Parade Xmas Party

Ambush’s Marsha & Paul celebrate @ Wayne’s 4th Holiday Toy Drive @ The Phoenix Julien Artressia & bartender Brad Robbert celebrate @ Bourbon Pub Parade Christmas Party

Johnny, Jack & Duane @ Ninth Circle’s 14th Anniversary

Hot men in for 26th Art Against AIDS @ NOMA

Loads of toys @ The Phoenix for Wayne’s 4th Holiday Toy Drive

'Tis the Season @ Bourbon Pub Christmas Party

Brian, Vickie & Ashley @ 26th Art Against AIDS

King Amon-Ra David, Ronnie, Miss Louisiana Leatherette Countess & David @ Art Against AIDS

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'Tis The Season for Holiday Parties ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin

The Country Club’s Jay, Drew, John & Bert celebrate @ Ninth Circle’s 14th Anniversary

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In the holiday spirit @ The Country Club Christmas Party

The Country Club in gingerbread by Chef Maryjane Rosas

Ronnie, Queen Satyricon Stephen & Natasha join Satyricon’s Holiday Auction & Buffet @ JohnPaul’s

Carlos, King Petronius-Elect Lee, David, Daryl & Mike @ Petronius Gospel Brunch

Todd, Petronius’ Jimmy & King Amon-Ra David @ Satyricon’s Holiday event @ JohnPaul's

Petronius president John Dutkar & co-captain Bootsie DeVille @ Petronius Gospel Brunch

Princesse Stephaney & Laura @ Satyricon’s Holiday Auction & Buffet @ JohnPaul's

Queen & King Amon-Ra Barry & David with 50/50 Raffle winner Carrie @ Golden Lantern for Amon-Ra Gumbo Cook-off

Amon-Ra pres. Leonard & function lt. David join Kajun’s Pub bartender Ashly Rose & mgr. David @ Amon-Ra Cook-off

Michael & Darwin join the AmonRa Gumbo Cook-off @ Tubby's Golden Lantern

Bar manager Drew welcomes you to Country Club’s Christmas Party

DJ E spins for Petronius Gospel Show @ 4 Seasons

snap

Regina, Gizelle & Jay@ the AmonRa Gumbo Cook-off In for Satyricon’s Holiday Auction & Buffet @ JohnPaul’s

paparazzi

Behind the bar @ Country Club Christmas Party

Gigi Zachau & Brian Plauche @ Petronius’ Gospel Brunch

Amon-Ra’s Gumbo Cook-off Chefs: Stuart & Ron, Tittie, Pete, Paul, Rip & Marsha @ the Lantern

Tami, Eva & Electra in for the Amon-Ra Gumbo Cook-off @ Tubby's Golden Lantern

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More Holiday Cheer ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin

The kitchen staff ready for Country Club’s Christmas Party

Bartender Ryan, bar baron Chuck & manager John welcome Petronius to 4 Seasons in Metairie

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ambush

paparazzi

Travis cocktailin’ @ 700 Club

Bartender Lawrence & bar baron Matt ready for the holidays @ 700 Club

Catch Tony @ Organic Banana

Fatma & Bakir @ Fatoush

Josh @ Organic Banana

Daniel Nola & Howie @ Michael’s

Head Quarters Clint & partner @ Michael’s On The Park Renegade Bears' Duaine & Tubby’s Golden Lantern bar baron Rick @ Tubby's Golden Lantern

Lil behind the bar @ Voodoo

Catch dancer Thomas @ Rainbow Room

Pearson @ Bourbon Pride

Monalot & Friends @ Michael’s On The Park

Dancer Nick @ Rainbow Room

Saundra & Mike @ Restaurant Deli of the Year Quartermaster

Cha Cha & Johnny @ Michael’s On The Park

Dancer Jason @ Rainbow Room

Billy & Paul @ 700 Club

John @ 700 Club

Bobby & Jim @ Tubby’s Golden Lantern

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On The Circuit ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon

Taylor @ Organic Banana

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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

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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

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

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

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

bars

book stores

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.,

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, ambushmag.com; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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

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

hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Rue Dauphine, 522.2666 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782

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

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 "halfkitchen", courtyard and half-open tubhouse with spa (hot tub/whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. [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. A locally owned and operated French Quarter hotel that has been beautifully transformed into spacious multi-bedroom suites. Several historical townhouses are also available to accommodate larger groups of up to 26. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St., free WiFi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available. MAISON DE MACARTY BED & BREAKFAST, 3820 Burgundy St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.267.1564, MaisonMacarty.COM, Email us at kurt@maisonmacarty.com. Luxury gay owned and operated bed and breakfast. 8 bedrooms with ensuite baths, pool, sun deck and beautiful courtyard. Sleep, eat and play at Maison de Macarty. Book it now! MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. [0113]

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on the prowl by Rory Wright Email: rorywrightinnola@hotmail.com

Gay Life in the Burbs: Part Two

was fortunate to get to talk to the owners of the Four Seasons and Outback bar, and to visit that bar recently and have such a good time and enjoy the bartenders, customers and ambiance in a suburban bar outside the Quarter. The Four Seasons and Outback bar has been one of the longest running gay bars in Metairie, Louisiana for over twenty years and it’s current owners and history has been a ride worth reporting on. Chuck Turner and Bill Miller, who have been partners now for 42 years, never planned to be the first gay domestic partners ever registered in the United States but due to the news, their travel plans at the time, a fluke and a trip with both their parents, that is exactly what occurred. It’s a love story that has endured and a partnership worthy of a movie, and I was very pleased to be able to talk with both these men, who were at their vacation spot in Florida during the interview. But due to digital recording and speaker phone on a cell phone, we were able to meet and get this history and story communicated thanks to modern technology. The domestic partnership event occurred on July 1st of 2001, in Vermont. Bill and Chuck happened to be in Canada on a trip across the country with both of their parents, when Bill heard on the radio in Montreal that Vermont was going to recognize domestic partnerships for the first time in United States history in Vermont that next Saturday. Bill was so excited, that he called Burlington, Vermont, the capital and asked how he and Chuck could get in on it. The official he spoke to said there is only going to be one office open that Saturday in Vermont and it will be an office in Burlington, that will be open in honor of the two women who brought the lawsuit and prevailed. Bill explained that he and Chuck were making a cross country trip across the country with their parents and asked how they could get in on it. The official transferred him to the clerk in Burlington and the clerk he talked to said, “Can you be here at ten o’clock on Saturday, and Bill said, “We’ll be there with bells on.” CNN, NBC, ABC, CBS, and other media from around the world were there that Saturday. This writer will tell you the rest of that story in the next issue of the Ambush as it deserves an entire article unto itself. Needless to say, these two men who have contributed to gay

Bill Miller & Chuck Turner life in Metairie, Slidell and the French Quarter, and are two very unique fellows who have done a lot to forward a proud gay history and to create venues where all people could sit down relax, have a drink and be among friends. Bill explained some of history of the bar. “The A framed bar at that location was originally opened by two women, Kathryn (Kitty) Blackwell and her partner Elizabeth, in the Mid 1970s and it was called Kathryn’s Upstairs/Downstairs Bar. Before the two women took it over it had a terrible reputation where straight couples would make out upstairs and the bar had a lot of run ins with the local police. Then they bought it and it became a gay bar and the troubles with the police stopped. Chuck and I had been together since 1971 and by the mid 70s were living in Slidell. (The story of how the two got to Slidell will be in the next article about the two of them.) Bill continued his history of the bar. “We started to go to the bar in the mid to late 70s and we went every weekend and had such a great time. This era in the bar lasted about ten years. Kitty and Elizabeth sold the bar in the mid 80s to two other women and we stopped going because the bar atmosphere had changed. Then Johnny Williams bought the bar in the late 1980s and while I was out to sea for a month, on one of our regular calls in 1992 Chuck told me “Bill, I bought a bar,” and I asked him, “What did it cost?” and he said, “I don’t know yet.” (Laughter). So we had to wait a month until I got back home from being out to sea as a merchant marine. Johnny had a reputation, ask anyone who was there, and when I got back I met with him and we negotiated a fair price and the first three years of owning the bar we had a monthly payment to him.” He talked about the challenges of owning a gay bar. “The second year we were open, it was Halloween night, and the Halloween celebration was the place to be in Metairie. Sometimes we would

stay over upstairs at the bar instead of driving home to Slidell. We had both arrived separately so both cars were in the lot. I just had a strange feeling and insisted we drive home even though Chuck would have preferred to stay at the bar. We took one car and left one there. The next morning we got a call that there had been an electrical fire in the booth upstairs and the bar had burned badly, with the fire department chopping through the roof because they thought we were there and trapped in the fire. If we had stayed that night we would have both surely perished.” The fire damage was extensive and they spent four months rebuilding. It came very close to having the bar never open again, because if they had not convinced the fire investigator to put in the report that it was not a total loss, they would not have been allowed to restore it. Luckily, it was deemed reparable and after four months of hard work and some major renovations on January 15th of 1994 they re-opened and never looked back. With a large area out back, The bar became a magnet for gay folks from all over the area, and young professionals and local neighbors would come out in volume. Bill commented on the tragedy of the fire. “It shows you how sometimes your response to a tragedy can result in a betterment. We have been very lucky every step of the way. People were coming from the West Bank, Mandeville, the French Quarter, and New Orleans. It was very successful for many years and then we, along with everyone else, got hit by Katrina. We have been rebuilding since the storm, and the a frame bar with the outback back stage and tables are active every week and open to all folks wherever they are from.” You can find the Four Seasons and Outback Bar on Facebook and you will find the special events and entertainment listed there. The bar is open Tuesday through Sunday from 4pm until closing. Weekends the bar can stay open until 4 am. Every Thursday is Karaoke with Rikki Gee and DJ P from 9pm to midnight. Friday is DJ E, and occasionally male dancers on the patio. Every Saturday from 10:30pm to midnight is a drag show. First Saturday of each month is Princesse Stephaney with various guest stars. The second Saturday is the Coca Mesa Variety Show with 3-4 drag performers each night. The third Saturday is “Big Momma’s 4 Sisters and a Bar Stool” with performances, comedy and song. The fourth Saturday show is “On the DL with Dominique DeLorean and Lauren Brown showcasing comedy and entertainment. The Patio is open from 9pm to midnight all year round and can be reserved for private parties and groups

Seamus Adams @ Four Seasons by contacting the bar manager through Facebook. There is free parking after 5pm on both sides of the bar, and it is located across from Lakeside Mall at 3229 N. Causeway between 17th and 18th Streets. Chuck and Bill also own Billy’s in Slidell, and the Double Play in the French Quarter. The Four Seasons Bar welcomed everyone to their annual Christmas party on December 16th with buffet style food for all, and great, very inexpensive cocktail specials. There was no cover charge and the event was a gift to customers new and old who have made the Four Seasons one of, if not the oldest continuously running gay bar in Metairie, Louisiana.

Same-Sex Couples Get Marriage Licenses in Washington State

ashington Gov. Chris Gregoire signed the state’s marriage equality law as the Nov. 6 election results were certified. Last month, Washington state voters approved Referendum 74, which upheld the state’s marriage equality law. The law took effect Dec. 6, allowing same-sex couples to obtain marriage licenses. The state has a three-day waiting period. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force contributed staff resources and training to the marriage equality efforts in Washington. According to Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, “This is a thrilling and historic week for Washingtonians. To celebrate one’s love and commitment is a lifelong dream for many, and we congratulate all the loving couples and families who will finally be able to share in the celebration and responsibilities of marriage. We wish the soon-to-benewlyweds great happiness in their journeys together as married couples. ”Thank you once again to all those who have worked so hard to get us to this monumental moment. We are proud to have partnered with you over the months and years it has taken to get here. We rejoice in this victory and continue to press forward to the day when same-sex couples all across America have the freedom to marry.” Visit www.theTaskForce.org.

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NEW ORLEANS COURTYARD HOTEL, 1101 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone 504.522.7333, Toll Free: 800.457.2253, NOCourtyard.COM. Email us at Reservations@bpmhotels.com, Official Host Hotel of OZ New Orleans. A 19th century home that has been historically restored and transformed into a locally owned and operated hotel. Experience the rich history and hospitality of New Orleans at an affordable price. Just 3 blocks from Bourbon St, free Wi-Fi, swimming pool, and continental breakfast included. Off street parking is available. 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 10am5pm 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 10am-4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm, 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, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 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 GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, E-mail: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 701566836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, info@kreweofarmeinius.org, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF AMON RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, 1001 South Broad St., Suite 115, New Orleans, LA 70125, KreweOfPetronius.ORG

KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. E-mail: 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 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 REGIONALAIDS 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. SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org 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 YWCAAIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717

pets New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455

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

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

t’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas was written by Meredith Wilson in 1951, reportedly in Nova Scotia. It’s a Christmas standard covered by many artists over the years. With global warming and changing weather patterns, I wonder what the lyrics would be if it was written today. But it wasn’t and it is one of those songs that puts us in the Christmas mood. I thought I would share some things that might help with your Christmas spirit and then some things you might enjoy when you have had enough. Remember, Christmas is for the child in all of us.

TELEVISION December 18 A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS on ABC IT’S A VERY MUPPET CHRISTMAS MOVIE on the CW December 20 CMA COUNTRY CHRISTMAS on ABC Hosted by Jennifer Nettles and www.MumfreysPharmacy.COM. Supporting & serving the LGBT Community for over 20 years. Local pharmacy offering personalized family-like service, automatic refills & free metro wide confidential pickup & delivery. Also offering shipping for out-side our delivery area. When you call us you speak to a person, not a machine. See our ad.

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

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

real estate New Orleans, LA [504] Gay-Owned Agency — New Orleans Relocation LLC, Mark Boline, Realtor/Broker, mark@nolarelo.com, 504.273.0088, 1027 Touro Street, New Orleans, LA 70116. Visit NOLArelo.com to search all NOLA properties for sale. Latter & Blum INC/Realtors, STEVE RICHARDS, 712 Orleans @ Royal, French Quarter. Cell: 504.258.1800, Office: 504.529.8140, SteveRichardsProperties.COM, Email: SRichards@LatterBlum.com LATTER & BLUM, Agent Brian M. Pawlowski, brianrealtor@aol.com, Agent Stace McDonald, stacerealtor@aol.com, 840 Elysian Fields, 451.2495

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] 700 Club Restaurant, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010,

featuring traditional songs and holiday memories from Dierks Bentley, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, the Band Perry, and Keith Urban. December 22 A CHIPMUNK CHRISTMAS on ABC CMA COUNTRY CHRISTMAS on ABC (an encore presentation) December 24 CHRISTMAS IS HERE AGAIN on the CW Narrated by Jay Leno and featuring the voices of Andy Griffith and Shirley Jones. SHREK THE HALLS on ABC SECOND STAR TO THE LEFT on the CW December 25 DR. SEUSS HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS on ABC December 28 ICE AGE: A MAMMOTH CHRISTMAS on FOX December 31 DICK CLARK’S NEW YEAR’S CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; Deanies.COM The Decadence Shoppe (coffehouse & cafe), 806 N. Rampart, 529.8874, DecadenceShoppeCafe.COM Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, 504.371.5074 Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Organic Banana, 1100 N. Peters, Bay 27, 587.7903 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans Prime Grille, 3162 Dauphine, 301.1740 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 BUNGALOWS, 719 Royal St., 522.9222 LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423 MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 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 SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip, 561.8167

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

ROCKIN’ EVE on ABC NEW YEARS EVE WITH CARSON DALY on NBC NEW YEARS EVE LIVE on FOX These are but a few of the movies and specials that will be on. Check your local listings for more and for times. Most of these we see every year...the CMA COUNTRY CHRISTMAS and the New Years Celebrations are new.

MUSIC HOLIDAYS RULE-Various Artist ...the alternative side of Christmas music ...featuring The Shins, Paul McCartney, Andrew Bird, Irma Thomas with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Rufus Wainwright. ON THIS WINTER’S NIGHT- Lady Antebellum MERRY CHRISTMAS BABY- Rod Stewart ...his 1st holiday collection featuring Mary J Blige, Michael Buble and CeeLo Green CHEERS, IT’S CHRISTMASBlake Shelton ...also his 1st Christmas collection featuring Michael Buble, Kelly Clarkson and Shelton’s wife Miranda Lambert THIS CHRISTMAS- John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John ...featuring Barbra Streisand and James Taylor CEELO’S MAGIC MOMENTCeelo Green ...featuring Christina Aguilera, The Muppets, Rod Stewart and Trombone Shorty NOW THAT’S WHAT I CALL TODAY’S CHRISTMAS- rock, pop, and country stars Everyone has their favorites, these are some of the new ones out this year. My favorite is still THE SUPREMES SING CHRISTMAS.

CHRISTMAS DVD’S SILENT NIGHT- horror movie with a maniac in a Santa suit KUNG FU PANDA HOLIDAY- Po hosts the Winter Fest 12 DOGS OF CHRISTMAS: GREAT PUPPY RESCUE- the dogs of Doverville are in trouble again ELF MAN-Christmas Eve at the Harper house GOLDEN WINTER-Golden Retrievers stop a bank robbery PLANET BEACH, A Contempo Spa, 301 Burgundy St., 525.8266, PlanetBeach.COM SPA ATLANTIS, 536 Bienville St., 522.3318; 740 Gravier, 566.8088, SpaAtlantis.NET

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, mahaliajacksontheater.com, 525.1052 NEW ORLEANS FRINGE FESTIVAL, NOFringe.ORG

tours New Orleans, LA [504] GAY NEW ORLEANS WALKING TOUR, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann St. , 568.0717

SANTA PAW’S 2: THE SANTA PUPS-Mrs. Claus travels to Pineville WHAT SHE WANTS FOR CHRISTMAS- Abigail wants something special CHRISTMAS IN COMPTONtrouble erupts the week before Christmas ARTHUR CHRISTMAS- how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night?

BOOK A REDBIRD CHRISTMAS- Fannie Flagg...I mentioned this book when I featured Flagg in an earlier column. It is full of great characters, humor, and hope...set on the Lost River in South Alabama. It’s a small book and a quick read. It even comes with recipes.

NEW MOVIES When you’ve had enough of food, fun and family, Hollywood is waiting for you...’tis the season of new releases... December 19 THE GUILT TRIP- Seth Rogen, Barbra Streisand, Kathy Najimy and Colin Hanks...a mother and son road trip that proves “dysfunctional” can work. December 21 THIS IS 40-Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann...a sequel to KNOCKED UP...a look inside the life of an American family. JACK REACHER-Tom Cruise, Robert Duvall and Werner Herzog...Cruise is a lone-wolf investigator on the hunt for a murderous spy. CIRQUE du SOLEIL: WORLDS AWAY ...the magic of Cirque du Soleil on the big screen in 3D December 25 LES MISERABLES-Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen....the long awaited film adaptation of the stage sensation...a story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption. DJANGO UNCHAINED- Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Samuel L Jackson, Gerald McRaney and Christoph Waltz...the Quintin Tarantino directed Western set two years before the Civil War...a story of slavery, freedom, hunting the South’s most wanted criminals and finding and rescuing Broomhilda, the wife Django lost long ago. PARENTAL GUIDANCE- Billy Crystal, Bette Midler and Marisa Tomei...21st century problems collide with old school parenting methods. I have watched the previews and read the reviews for all these new releases. THE GUILT TRIP, THIS IS 40, and PARENTAL GUIDANCE are all comedies...Billy Crystal and Bette Midler look great together. CIRQUE du SOLEIL: WORLDS AWAY looks fantastic and will be even better in 3D. Usually you can’t go wrong with Quintin Tarantino and with this cast, DJANGO UNCHAINED looks great. JACK REACHER looks like another Tom Cruise movie, we have seen it before. The big winner, I think, will be LES MISERABLES.

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a community within communities

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

'Tis the Season

reydl’s and pine needles; presence and presents; move around the tree, flee the mall and make ready the party hall; 'Tis the Season. For some it may be lonely, for others a gathering in. The Season is the home of the Longest Night on December 22nd. The Season is the time of gifting and grafters. It is a mixed bagatelle. For the past millennium or so it has been the Season of Western Christianity of the Incarnation aka Christmas. The popularity of Hanukkah has risen as the commercialism of Christmas has expanded; 'Tis the Season. Many of the institutions that have embraced the Incarnation and proclaim “The Reason for the Season” are those same institutions that have leveled hurt and hatred at the people of the incarna-

reVIEW ...from 33 I think it will live up to all the hype. There’s plenty out there to boost your Christmas spirit...music, movies and books.

tion. One major contributor to this fear laden sadness proclaims that some are “intrinsically disordered”; 'Tis the Season. I have had the pleasure and often with no small degree of amusement and some degree of surrealistic amazement to be invited into the LGBT community. I must say that at times I find it amazing on so many levels. My O my there seems to be a name for everything: bears, bear trappers, cub, otters, and zoo goes on; colored handkerchiefs; disco balls; leather and lather. Beauty and brilliance seem so often to go hand in hand with sadness and solitude. Yet this is what I know as we approach the day of Christmas which recalls the birth of Jesus as savior, advocate, lover, and brother. This is what I know. That in these past days during the Season of hope and expectation called Relax and enjoy the season. Remember that perfect Christmas only happens on the soaps ...give yourself a break. You always have Jackson Square and the Lantern Drag Show on Christmas Eve. MERRY CHRISTMAS to all ...Blanche

Advent preceding Christmas, The Bear and Bear Trappers Social Club hosted Deacon Joyce Jackson, a black beauty of later years to their annual party. At the end of the night they presented her with a check for nearly $3,000 to help feed the hungry that seek help from St. Anna’s little food pantry for the poor. This is what I know that a, The Phoenix bar, a so called “leather” bar with bravado and buoyancy promoted and then received Christmas gift after Christmas gift for the little children of the Tremé that would have little or no Christmas gift without them. This is what I know: that for the past year The Friendly Bar; Cutter's; and other LGBT watering holes and their clients have supported ministries that speak of real love in real action. They have shown giving hearts. They have shown a unique kind of love. We have hosted many mission groups at St. Anna’s and we are always grateful for their help, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Yet, for so many the mission trip is as much for them in the emotional pay off that comes from “helping us and building relationships.” There is sometimes neediness in their giving. Perhaps there is neediness in this giving by the Gay community. But this is what I know they give and do not need to be the givers at hand. You see for many they want to see the little people smile as they gift give (the payoff). For the givers in the Bears Club or at the Phoenix or any number of other Partners (and yes we think of these watering holes and clubs as partners in community) the ‘payoff’ is in simply giving. It is interesting that maybe this is because there is a certain fear of joining in handing out the presents; maybe our invitation to this has not been heard. Maybe deep inside there are senses that they might yet again be judged wrongly and hurt and so why disturb this moment of grace and joy. I really don’t know. But I know this. Jesus born in Bethlehem was born into a world of judgment and harshness as a still quiet voice that cannot be ignored. I know this. That this baby was surrounded by those rejected elsewhere. I know this. That stars and wise men rejoiced and proclaimed that the universe was changed and that this birth above all berths was the start of the age of freedom, joy, and liberation. I suspect that anyone who hates the LBGT community doesn’t know. I suspect that those who reject this part of humanity have lived so separately from it that they simply cannot understand it. They talk about promiscuity and sexual hits in bars. Yep it’s there just troll the bars on Bourbon and beyond. Oh and then there are the gay bars where the same thing happens. They talk about boys living with boys and jumping from bed to bed. Somehow that seems just a bit better than guys and gals jumping from bed to bed. It’s a mess. But I know this. When a gay

obituary Michael Bennett

ichael Bennett, longtime New Orleans actor and director has died. Michael left the Metro area when Katrina destroyed his house and closed the North Star Theatre in Mandeville. He relocated to East Texas to be near his family. Michael passed in late September. Michael came to New Orleans in 1969. He taught school before embarking on his life on the stage as an actor and director. He worked with NORD, was the founding director at the UPSTAIRS THEATRE/FATTED CALF, the managing director at GALLERY CIRCLE, worked with LE PETIT and LE PETIT CHILDRENS’ CORNER, and the NORTH STAR THEATRE in Mandeville. He won “The Big Easy Award” for Best Actor in a Play in 1997 for Madwoman of Chaillot at the NORTH STAR. Most will remember Greater Tuna, the play he and Ricky Graham did all over town. Like most theatre people in the 80s, Michael could be found at LUCILLE’S and FRIEND after a show. He had a great wit and a wealth of stories about people and the Quarter...catty not bitchy. He lent his nickname to “The Betty Betty’s,” an inner circle of friends who hung out at the bar. Michael was The Betty Betty... Michael leaves behind an impressive theatrical career in New Orleans. He also leaves behind a host of friends who have wonderful memories of some very good times. Michael was cremated and his ashes buried in Dallas. He is survived by his cousins, his friends, and the cats he adored. man dies in this community the whole community mourns not just the relatives. I know this that when a couple in this community has lived in union for 30 years or 40 years it is not an oddity. I know this that when some brave souls come to St. Anna’s Church to pray they pray truly, honestly, and well. I know this – That child born in a stable, hunted down by the authorities for simply being born, fleeing for life to Egypt, breaking into traditional religion and critiquing it and shaking it up has more in common with the LBGT community than most of the rest of us. Maybe without meaning to or without even understanding it the settled LGBT Community is the “New Israel” maybe just maybe. And if so then: O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!

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trodding the boards by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

The Year in Review

hen Charles Dickens wrote, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times..." he could have been describing New Orleans' 2012 theater season. For mixed in with some heady highs were some frustrating lows. Possibly the biggest blow came at the start of the year. Canal Place informed Southern Rep that it would have to vacate its third floor theater so that more cinemas could be installed. While this was well within the terms of the leasing agreement and Southern Rep acknowledged that Canal Place had been a good landlord for twenty years, the abbreviated lead time of the notification caused quite a bit of scrambling to find new venues. While all the main stage shows did go on, some of the auxiliary offerings, like 6 x 6, were cancelled or postponed. Meanwhile, out in Metairie, the plucky Actor's Theatre of New Orleans closed its doors depriving Jeffersonians, and those willing to make the trip out there, of their admirable mix of comedies, dramas and small-scale musicals. Further out in Kenner, there was a regime change as Charlie Ward and Rivertown Repertory Theatre were replaced by Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts led by the erstwhile leaders of Theatre 13, Gary Rucker and Kelly Fouchi. Nothing wrong with that, but Theatre 13 had seemed so adept at finding homes for its wide range of offerings that I'll miss the easy accessibility of their Orleans Parish locales as well as the more traditional fare RRT provided. At least Rivertown Rep went out on a high note with an enjoyable The Battle of Shallowford, inspired by Orson Welles' The War of the Worlds broadcast, and a consummate version of the Neil Simon chestnut Plaza Suite. Back in the Quarter, the Le Petit saga keeps going on. Though expected, at this time last year, to re-open in the Fall, Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré has remained shuttered as renovations continue to transform it into a restaurant/theater. There had also been some hope that the beloved Le Chat Noir might be reconstituted, but that's proven elusive and it, too, stays dark. And then there was Hurricane Isaac. Jefferson Performing Arts Society suffered tremendous damage to its theater in Westwego and had to postpone its entire fall season. The storm also caused serious injury to the An-

thony Bean Community Theater on Carrollton Avenue; between that and the disruption to the lives of his cast and crew, Bean had to move all of his offerings up a slot. Lombardi, which was to have inaugurated the new Le Petit in January in time for the Super Bowl, had to be moved to the Fall as Isaac played havoc with the construction there; the Grande Dame of NOLA will now reopen in March with Death of a Salesman. A number of other productions including Rivertown Theaters' Legally Blonde and NOLA Project/Cripple Creek's Balm in Gilead had to be pushed back a week or so in the aftermath of Isaac. So much for careful planning. And whether it was Isaac, the economy or something else, other shows I was looking forward to, such as The Elm Theatre's Stop Kiss, never materialized. But the theatrical cup was not all empty. In fact, it was mostly quite full. Southern Rep relocated its Streetcar Named Desire to the Michalopoulos Studio on Elysian Fields not far from where the Kowalski's lived; pre-show walking tours of the neighborhood were able to give audiences added insights into the life and times of this classic. Having finally alighted at the CAC, SRep has been giving vibrant life to the underutilized theater there. While Actor's Theatre isn't quite back yet, its Artistic Director René J.F. Piazza brought his long-running A Christmas Carol: The Whole Story to the Joy Theater on Canal Street with movie star John Heard no less. Over by Bayou St. John, the Mid City Theater, which was just getting its bearings around this time last year, has blossomed into a popular home for, well, everything—among its tenants have been modern classics (Tiny Alice), campy fun (The Divine Sister, Psycho Beach Party), musicals (C'est La Vie, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson) and new works (Visiting Hours along with SRep's 6x6, 3x3: The One Acts and Debauchery, Pat Bourgeois' monthly soap opera). Owner Fred Nuccio offered an exhilarating program of four plays in four weeks last summer and is now making the Mid City available for actor-driven productions on Mondays-Wednesdays. Similarly, not only has the AllWays Lounge and Theater been regularly hosting other companies (NOLA Project's Behanding in Spokane; Cripple Creek's Lysistrata; Skin

Horse's 24 Hour Plays, etc.) but Artistic Director Dennis Monn scored with a triumvirate of musicals that he presented (Bingo! The Musical, the cheeky romp Shanghai!, and Monns spectacularly staged Sweeney Todd) under the AllWays banner. Joining the Allways, the Shadowbox, the Backyard Ballroom and Byrdie's along the St. Claude corridor has been Café Istanbul in the Healing Center. While more geared to music and cabaret performances, it's been home to the musical Tick, Tick...BOOM!, Fringe Festival shows, and the surreally fabulous Joan Rivers benefit in August. If there seemed to be fewer debuts of new companies this year-blame it on the economy, perhaps-two of last year's debutantes have bloomed: Skin Horse, with its Lewis Carroll adaptation Snark in the Park (for kids) and Snark After Dark (for adults) as well as The Importance of Being Earnest, and Rising Shiners whose C'est La Vie moved for an extended run to the Old U.S. Mint, the first time that historic building hosted a theatrical presentation. Still, Harold Gervais' Broken Glass premiered at the Shadowbox with Red Light Winter and Smudge, and Stephen Eckert's Promethean Theatre Co. just finished up its initial run of two Christopher Durang oneacts on the Tulane campus. As we scout out future theatrical leaders, in last year's round-up I wrote, "Each week our local TV broadcasts go on and on about college, and even high school, football and other sports teams. Why can't they give a little time to our younger thespians as well?" Sadly, nothing's changed though the quality of this year's university offerings and others featuring kids were, if possible, even higher. Boy Gets Girl and Born Yesterday (Delgado); For Colored Girls... and Two Trains Running (Dillard); Anton in Show Business and Blithe Spirit (Loyola); Avenue Q (Southern Rep's Summer Academy); Bat Boy (NOCCA); Holy Ghosts (UNO)—all were season highlights. And if Crescent City Lights Youth Theater's Honk, Jr. isn't on the list, it's only because I hadn't seen it yet at press time. Apropos of Delgado's Born Yesterday, kudos to Director Kris La Morte for his color blind approach to casting. As Billie Dawn, Miriam Smith gave an absolutely delicious portrayal of the "dumb blonde" and it mattered not a whit that she happens to be Black. The same could be said about Rhonda Gibson in The Importance of Being Earnest (Slidell Little Theatre), Idella Johnson in Beirut (Mid City Theater), Jermaine Keelen in Psycho Beach Party (Mid City Theater), and Jarrod Mims Smith in Hamlet (Tulane Shakespeare Festival). Though it's a bit ridiculous that we're even having this

discussion in 2012, that these performances are noteworthy, aside for the sheer talent involved, demonstrates how far we still have to go. Some folks, though, keep going and going. Not one to rest on her comedic laurels, Varla Jean Merman took quite a gamble by essaying the title role in Menotti's The Medium, first in Provincetown during the summer and then off-Broadway in New York in the Fall. And it truly paid off! Playing it completely straight, Merman (aka Jeffery Roberson) was convincing as a mean-spirited, vengeful woman who, with the help of her cowed kids, fools her clients who want to believe in her powers. Roberson's rich contralto brought out the beauty in Menotti's verissimo score and, by the end, when her Madame Flora had crossed over from "fake" to real madness, s/he was most poignant. While, unfortunately, there are currently no plans to bring The Medium to Nawlins (a shame since it's set in the Quarter), you can catch Varla reprising two of her favorite roles at the Mid City Theater, Scrooge in Rouge! (through Dec. 23) then Shut Up, Sweet Charlotte! (Dec. 29-Jan. 19 with a special show on New Year’s Eve). Me, I'm still smiling from his/her and Ricky Graham's wickedly funny Ricky & Varla TURN YOU ON. Others have also had a very good year. A.J. Allegra began it with an amusing turn as a snarky front desk man in A Behanding in Spokane, is finishing it with the NOLA Project's (of which he's Artistic Director) revival of Romeo & Juliet at NOMA and, in between, as director, made a mediocre show phenomenal (NOCCA's Lucky Stiff) and phenomenal one (Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson) even more so by bringing out the characters' humanity and emotional lives in addition to gloriously imaginative staging. Not only did Butch Caire's direction of Plaza Suite get just about every laugh to be had but he created a wholly different look and body posture for each of the three characters he played with understated assurance. He went on to direct JPAS' Light in the Piazza, capturing the palpable longing and heartache in this challenging work, and getting outstanding performances from Nancy Ross, Ariel Assaf and Richard Arnold. And I first encountered Levy Easterly in Beauty, portraying Jean Genet in Hatchery's Garret in the Bywater, a difficult role for anyone let alone a relative newcomer. A month or so later he was in the dynamite revival of The American Dream at The Healing Center holding his own alongside such heavyweights as Kyle Daigrepont, Kim Marshall, Mary Pauley, and Matt Story. And then a featured role in the cin[continued on 38]

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trodding the boards ...from 36 ematic masterpiece Beasts of the Southern Wild. Wow! Other notable productions: —Anthony Bean's heartbreaking The Amen Corner featuring Vinnie Matthews in a stirring performance —Silk Dress' Albee Season con-

cluded with a fine production of the provocative Tiny Alice —Psycho Beach Party's kast of krazies demonstrated that this 25 year old goof has aged well —The tragedy of Director Emilie Whelan's Lysistrata, so intelligently, passionately done, was that its anti-war message never goes out of fashion —Tulane Summer Lyric Theater's traditional Fiddler on the Roof, with Randy Cheramie near-perfect as Tevye, made me kvell —the WWII Museum's Jump Jive & Wail: The Music of

Louis Prima brought this native New Orleanian's story to exuberant life —Playmakers' Moon Over Buffalo and Cutting Edge's Promises, Promises, among other productions, provided theatergoers on the North Shore with fun and, in the case of John Giraud's musical, Widow Bride, at Slidell Little Theatre, original works as well —though I had some reservations about Balm in Gilead and The Lily's Revenge (Southern Rep at the Den of Muses) I tremendously admired their producers for presenting these large scale productions And at the risk of leaving somebody out, here are, in addition to those already mentioned, some other laudable folks who trod the boards in 2012: Elizabeth Argus, Katie Howe (Sunset Boulevard); Martin Bradford (Fishers of Men); Sheleta Burke-Manuel, Donna King (The Amen Corner); Kerry Cahill (Lysistrata); Lauren Channell (The Moments that Shape Us); Tracey Collins (Plaza Suite); Martin Covert, Nysa Loudon (Hamlet); Dave Davis (Hamlet and Battle of Shallowford); Joyce Deal, Garrett Prejean (The Gingham Dog); Bob Edes, Jr. (Anything Goes and Sunset Boulevard); Lucy Faust, Rudy Rasmussen (The Battle of Shallowford); Helen Gillet, Pandora Gastelum, David Symons (Sweeney Todd); John Michael Haas, Chris Wecklein, The Kahnartist (Shanghai!); Lucas Harms, Leslie Limberg, Keith Claverie (Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson); Aimee Hayes, Ashley Ricord (A Streetcar Named Desire); Ian Hoch (Balm in Gilead and Lysistrata); Larry Johnson, Annie Gambino (Promises, Promises); Kate Kuhn (As You Like It); Inas Mahdi (Blues for an Alabama Sky); John "Spud" McConnell (A Christmas Carol); Matthew Mickal, Tari Hohn (Psycho Beach Party); Angela Papale, Joe Seibert (Becky Shaw); Mary Pauley (The Gnädiges Fräulein); Nicole Rae (Red Light Winter); [continued on 43]

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big easy

paparazzi

Proprietor Richard & his staff @ Spa Atlantis French Quarter Grand Opening Holiday Party

In for show night @ Oz

Brent, Laura & Josh @ Art Against AIDS Patron Party

It’s A Jolly Time ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

Jose & Rene @ their holiday party in the Quarter

Beaux, Andrea, & Barrett @ Spa Atlantis French Quarter Grand Opening Holiday Party

King Cake Queen IX Lisa Beaumann in Oz’s Wednesday show night

NO/AIDS Task Force’s TJ & Michael welcome you to Art Against AIDS Patron Party

Cheryl & Colleen @ Cheryl’s Holiday Extravaganza

DJ of the Year Tim with MC Persana & Coca @ Oz

The staff of Gamble Communications @ their holiday party Margarita Bergen & Michael join Art Against AIDS Patron Party @ Arthur Roger Gallery

Ashley & Vickie @ their holiday house party

King Cake Queen XX Dusty on stage @ Show Bar of the Year Oz

Larry & Cheryl @ Art Against AIDS Patron Party

Gia GiaVanni ready for Wednesday show night @ Oz

Albert, Barret, Channing & Beaux @ Art Against AIDS Patron Party

The New Orleans Rat Pack @ Oz

Ambush’s Tony, Laura & Jeremy join NACE/ISES/MPI holiday party @ Joy Theatre

Ed, Christian & Ambush’s Brian @ Mark & Jeff’s Hannukah Party Uptown

MC & Pride Grand Marshal Tony Leggio & cast help raise $$$ for Pride @ JohnPaul’s

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paparazzi

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Emerald City & Miss Order of Zeus 2012/2013 ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Lauren Mitchell

pensacola

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trodding the boards ...from 38 Rebecca Rae (Bingo! The Winning Musical); Diana Shortes (The Diary of Anne Frank); Edward Simon, Christopher Bentivegna, Becky Allen, Jason George (Jesus Christ Superstar); Evan Spigelman (The Lily's Revenge); and Emilie Whelan (Balm in Gilead). Looking forward to the curtain going up on 2013! Hello Laura @ Bacchus Timothy with King Stevie of Osiris

Holidays, Kings & More! ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Miss Cie & John

Christmas Angels

Hello Corey & Jerry @ B-Bob’s

Miss Cie with King Of Osiris Stephen for the King’s Brunch

Christopher Ramage & Tari Hohn in Psycho Beach Party

mobile

paparazzi

Hello Miss Venus @ B-Bob’s KerryCahill & Ian Hoch in Lysistrata

Bacchus bartender Jay

Happy Holidays from B-Bob’s

King Stevie & King Stephen of Osiris 2012-13

Lucas Harms in Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson

Carrell’s Christmas Extravaganza Leigh & Traci with the King

Hello Lee & Boys

Order of Osiris King’s Brunch

Knoxville, Tennessee’s Mercedes Alexander with Miss Cie @ B-Bob’s

Venita Matthews in The Amen Corner

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