Ambush magazine volume 33 issue 04

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THE OFFICIAL MAG

the "official" dish

Facebook.COM/AmbushMag Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide© Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide© Official Gay New Orleans Guide© Official Pride Guide© Official Southern Decadence Guide©

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

16th Gay Easter Parade Fundraisers Kicks off Easter Season on March 1 & 6

AWARD WINNING:

A great Mardi Gras is just behind us setting the tone for the beginning of the exciting Easter season. As Easter Grand Marshals XVI, Misti Ates (aka Johnny Passion) and Deja Deja-Vue' will lead the 16th Gay Easter Parade Easter Sunday, April 5. For the past 12 years, the parade minus expenses benefits Food For Friends, a vital service of NO/AIDS Task Force. For the past 13 years, the parade has raised over $202,414 for charity. Six major events are slated for this year > The first event is the 5th Sponsorship Party on Sunday, March 1st, 3-5pm, at Cutter’s, 706 Franklin Ave. Hosted by GEP Board’s Steve Patrick and Darwin Reed, this annual gathering is a great opportunity to join the fun with cocktails, food, and some great live auctions. All sponsors receive complimentary well drinks, domestic beer, wine and food. Non-sponsors can join for a $5 door donation which includes complimentary food.

Cutter's is kindly donating one of their fab food creations for the event. Highlights in the auction include a large handmade afghan, floral arrangement certificate, haircut certificates, handmade afghan black and gold shawl, bar tabs and more.

Sponsorships are available at Presenting ($2,500), Platinum ($1,000), Gold ($500), Silver ($250), or Bronze ($100). Information and sponsorship forms is available at www.GayEasterParade.com. The parade is already off to a good start with a Platinum sponsorship from EGM XV Todd Blauvelt; Gold sponsorship from Noel Twilbeck and Glen Kahrman, and EGM XII Gary Vandeventer; Silver sponsorship from EGM XIII Darwin Reed and EGM VII Opal Masters, and Bronze sponsorship from Paul Melancon, and EGM XIV Starr Daniels and Justin Moffatt. > The second event is the 7th Eggstravaganza on Friday, March 6th, 8-10pm, at GrandPre’s, 834 N. Rampart, with a $10 door donation. Hosted by GEP Board’s Opal Masters and Darwin Reed, this special evening will bring to the stage an array of talent including Easter Grand Marshals XVI Johnny Passion and Deja Deja-Vue’, Bootsie Deville, Barbara Ella, Scott Tuberville as Boy George, and a special performance by Ken Grandpre as Lana Luscious.

There will be some fabulous auctions including an incredible Easter Basket worth over $800 in liquor and prizes, and the ever popular 50/50 raffle Other events include: >Saturday, March 14th, 14th Super Star-Studded Drag Extravaganza, 8-10pm, Oz, 800 Bourbon St. hosted by GEP Board’s Rip Naquin and Marsha Delain; >Saturday, March 21st, 13th Spring Fever Extravaganza, 8-10pm, The Four Seasons, 3229 N. Causeway, Metairie, hosted by GEP Board’s Electra City and Tittie Toulouse; >Saturday, March 28th, 16th Purple Party Easter Grand Marshals Reception, 811pm, Double Play, 439 Dauphine St. hosted by GEP Board of Directors; >Friday, April 3rd, 6th Bunnies in The Big Easy, 7-9:30pm, palatial home in the Marigny, hosted by GEP Board’s Tony Leggio and Rona Conners; >Easter Sunday, April 5th, 4:30pm, 16th Gay Easter Parade rolls through the streets of the French Quarter; 6pm, Post-Gay Easter Parade Party, GrandPre’s, 834 N. Rampart.

Sponsored by Ambush Magazine, the parade showcases the fashion and creativity of the entire LGBT community with gentlemen in summer suits/tux with hats, and ladies in Easter suits/dresses with Easter hats.

Carriage/parade entry forms will be available as soon as carriage prices are confirmed. Visit www.GayEasterParade.com for sponsorship/entry forms.

RuPaul's Drag Race Boast Largest “Battle of the Seasons” Talent Tour Yet For 2015 Producer Entertainment Group and Sidecar Management, in conjunction with Logo TV and World of Wonder announced the largest ever North American tour featuring many winners and fan favorites from the hit show RuPaul’s Drag Race. Launching February 1

inside

St. Patrick's Day/Pre-Easter issue out March 10 DEADLINE: Tues., March 3

celebrazzi moments in gay new orleans history book reviews matters of health a community within communities on the carnival red carpet paparazzi bourbon street awards paparazzi gay mardi gras bead toss paparazzi 16th gay easter parade under the gaydar mobile paparazzi

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armeinius ball paparazzi trodding the boards classifieds wear it out lords of leather ball paparazzi narcissus ball paparazzi ambush paparazzi/new orleans ambush paparazzi/new orleans

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

from fabulous Las Vegas, the tour will reach 35 cities.

Hosted by series judge Michelle Visage, the tour line-up will vary by city, and include winners Bianca Del Rio, Jinkx Monsoon, Sharon Needles and Raja as well as fan favorites Adore Delano, Alaska 5000, BenDeLaCreme, Courtney Act, Darienne Lake, Detox, Ivy Winters, Jiggly Caliente, Manila Luzon, Pandora Boxx and Phi Phi O’hara. Witness the eleganza and gag on the shade of it all in a night of unforgettable music and madness with the world’s most talented drag performers. Line-up information by city and tickets are available for purchase at www.RuPaulBots.com.

“It has been a joy to see both our amazing TV show and our tours grow bigger every year with all of this immense talent,” said Michelle Visage. “Bitches better beware: hide your kids, hide your husbands because with 35 cities, this time we are coming straight to your neighborhood!”

“I’m so excited to be joining the cast of Battle of the Seasons for the upcoming tour,” said Bianca Del Rio. “It has been a whirlwind year, and I’m beyond grateful to be given this opportunity. It’s always a pleasure to work with my Drag Race ‘sisters’.”

Both general admission and VIP tickets are available. Don't miss the 3/27/15 show in New Orleans at the historic Civic Theatre.

Producer Entertainment Group and Sidecar Management specialize in the career management, brand development, and worldwide touring activities of performing artists, entertainers, reality TV personalities, and celebrities.

Innovative production company World of Wonder is behind such entertaining hit series as RuPaul’s Drag Race (Logo), Million Dollar Listing (Bravo), #CandidlyNicole (Vh1), Big Freedia (Fuse), Life With La Toya (OWN), and Island Hunters (HGTV).

World of Wonder has also created awardwinning films and documentaries such as Inside Deep Throat, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Party Monster, Monica in Black and White, and The Last Beekeeper. Seven of their films have premiered at the Sundance Film festival including Becoming Chaz and Party Monster, the documentary and feature film starring Macaulay Culkin.

Louisiana Excellence Award: Media & Internet/2014, New Orleans Print Media Award/ 2014, 25th NO/AIDS Task Force Humanitas Award/2013, New Orleans Print Media Award/ 2013, Krewe of Mwindo Media Honoree/2009, Krewe of Petronius Carnival Spirit of Gay Mardi Gras XLVIII Award/2009, Forum For Equality Acclaim Awards X Media Recipient/2008, NO/AIDS Task Force Prometheus “Torch of Truth” [media] Award/2001 OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] Email: ripna@ambushmag.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1 MILLION: 260,000+ in print/780,000+ On-line CIRCULATION: Alabama-Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi Texas - Houston

STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin • 504.522.8049 Paul Melancon THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Johnny Joseph Delgadillo, Charles Jenkins, Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkey, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans Bob Brunson, MIss Cie & John, Leon WeekleyMobile, AL 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. ©1982-2015 AMBUSH, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation

rush party. Hosted in the Queen's Head Pub upstairs at Good Friends Bar, the party is set for Sunday, March 8, 3-5pm. "Have a ball, then be in one." Good Friends is located at 740 Dauphine. For more information visit www.KreweOfAmonRa.com.

Join Amon-Ra for 51st Rush Party March 8

Lords of Leather Rush Party March 8

The Krewe of Amon-Ra is just coming off its 50th consecutive anniversary ball, and is gearing up for its fabulous season 51

If you attended the Lords of Leather’s Bal Masque XXXII and liked what you expe-

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The 51st Bourbon Street Awards, sponsored by Oz New Orleans and Ambush Magazine, brought over 30 contestants to the ultimate costume contest at Mardi Gras 2015 worth $3,000 in cash prizes. Winners included: BEST OVERALL-Lords of Leather King and Consort Troy Powell and Tommy Stubblefield; BEST OF SHOW-1) Captain Amon-Ra, 2) Lords of Leather's Hollywood Ben Bourgeois and Spirit of New Orleans (tie); BEST GROUP-1) “Sissy That Walk” Dance Crew, 2) Cat Herders, 3) Krewe of Mardi Gar; BEST LEATHER-1) Lords of Leather King and Consort Troy Powell & Tommy Stubblefield, 2) Krewe of Apollo Baton Rouge's Guns N’ Roses Chad Blanchard, 3) Reptile Dysfunction; and BEST DRAG-1) Krewe of Amon-Ra's Rhonda Roget, 2) Elsa Mars from AHS: Freak Show, 3) Krewe of Satyricon's Chanel No. 5. (www.GayMardiGras.com/bbb.htm) Best Overall won $1,000 while each sub-category winner won $500. (Photo by Hubert S Monkeys of Best Overall and Best Leather - Lords of Leather King and Consort Troy Powell and Tommy Stubblefield)

The Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLVII promised "If You Build It They Will Come," and did they ever to the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette, Louisiana.

Trademark gigantic costumes some 30 feet or more across brought the giant crowd to their feet time and again for "The Architecture Ball." Co-Captain's Freddie Guess and Brent Durnin brought fourth some 18 presentations with a flair for the dramatic with an additional 30-50 participants in tow. The talents of Jeffrey T. Roberson (aka Varla Jean Merman) and Michael Sullivan as emcees proved to be hilarious beyond compare. The krewe even had Singer Paul Ross perform "Love is in the Air" live for the "Sydney" presentation. The fantastic evening culminated with the presentation of King and Queen Armeinius XLVII Dr. Tim Jeansonne and DragZilla (Chad Brickley) in spectacular splendor. It was also the first time Ambush has seen a krewe present the royalty of a sister-krewe in their tableaux, Queen and King Amon-Ra L Opal Masters and Darwin Reed. (www.Armeinius.org) (Photo by Rip Naquin)

celebrazzi

"That's Entertainment!" laid the ground work for the Mystic Krewe of The Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXXIII as a true entertainment spectacle at the John A. Alario, Sr. Event Center in Westwego, Louisiana. Captain Gary Vandeventer as "There's No Business..." singing it live with an array of professional dancers got the ball rolling with some 18 presentations. Of course, the Roladex of Hate Bianca Del Rio, and Mobile newscaster Darwin Singleton, would lead us into a bumpy night of hysterics and even more, as emcees. As each presentation hit the stage, the crowd would be whipped into a frenzy, to see what could possibly come next. Dedicated to Leather, Love and Laughter, this krewe did not disappoint. The charity number led by Elizabeth Bouvier and company raised some $1,500 for St. Anna's Food Bank. The elaborate presentation, including feather clad show girls and boys, brought forth "What Happens In Las Vegas" Lord King and Consort XXXIII Troy Powell and Tommy Stubblefield, the culmination to an evening of entertainment. (www.LordsOfLeather.org) (Photo by Rip Naquin)

King Cake Queen XXII Aubrey Synclaire, reigning as Queen of the Opera, is joined by Krewe of Queenateenas' CoCaptain's Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain and their guests, leading the 28th Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss from the world famous balcony of the Ambush Mansion at 828 Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

Sponsored by Ambush Magazine, the krewe celebrated "Vienna: Beautiful, Gay & Gemuthlich (Cozy)" throwing thousands of beads to the revelers below throughout the afternoon. Although it was cold, there was no rain, and as the Queen came out to lead the bead toss, the sun shown brightly.

The 50 guests enjoyed cocktails, and the co-captain's annual feast of Mardi Gras Red Beans and cream cheese butter grits (or rice), and four dips including hot meaty cheesy, bacon ranch, ham-olive, and blu cheese; marinated antipasti, rolls, crackers, chips, and of course, cream cheese king cake from Antoine's Famous Cakes & Pies. (www.GayMardiGras.com) (Photo by Hubert S Monkeys)

The city's newest krewe, the Krewe of Narcissus presented its Bal Masque I at the New Orleans Healing Center in New Orleans. Captain Bruce Orgeron's tableaux had some 8 presentations. Rick Mirabelli reigned as Queen Narcissus One, while the krewe selected Jason to be Boy Narcissus 2015. The krewe chooses this young man from outside of the krewe.

Narcissus was created to be a throw back to old gay carnival with only a queen and no tickets to be bought, by invitation only, with complimentary food and drink to ball guests. The krewe's focus is more on the costume, than on production, or a drag number. (www.facebook.com/ pages/Krewe-of-Narcissus/471803119553969) (Photo by Hubert S Monkeys)

NEXT Ambush DEADLINE Tuesday, March 3 5 0 4 .5 2 2 .8 0 4 9 ripna@ambushmag.com

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moments in gay new orleans history

by Professor Frank Perez E-mail: f.perez@sbcglobal.net Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

“What’s Your History?”

Not long ago I was at the State Museum Archives looking at old photographs of gay Mardi Gras in years gone by. As I was perusing, I began to think of the men in the pictures, long gone now, and what their lives were like. What bars did they go to? Where did they like to eat? What were their day jobs? Were they in relationships? What kind of men turned them on? Were they nelly or butch? What personal demons did they wrestle? What was their gay New Orleans like?

I found myself wishing those men had written memoirs. Of course, in those years, being gay was not something people wanted to document. Fortunately times have changed, and for that we should all be grateful. But I still wonder, what will future historians make of my generation’s gay New Orleans?

Therefore, I am very pleased to announce that My Gay New Orleans is an exciting new book Jeff Palmquist and I are editing. The anthology will consist of a collection of personal essays from various members of the New Orleans LGBT+ community. Each contributor will answer the same question: What does “gay New Orleans” mean to me? In other words, each contributor will describe his or her gay New Orleans. By sharing your own experience and unique perspective, your story will help illustrate the incredible diversity within New Orleans LGBT+ community.

So consider this an invitation to tell your story, to let your voice be heard.

Would you consider submitting an essay for the anthology?

There are no wrong ways to write this essay. All you have to do is describe what gay New Orleans means to you. Do include a working title for your narrative and short bio (one paragraph) for the “About the Contributors” section that will appear at the end of the book. That being stated, here are some writing prompts. You need not answer or respond to all these questions and prompts; these are simply guidelines.

What brought you to New Orleans? Or if you are a frequent visitor, what keeps bringing you back to New Orleans?

What do you do for a living?

What aspects of the gay community are you involved in? Organizations, Carnival Krewes, clubs, sports leagues, etc.

How do you identify yourself with in the LGBT+ community? Lesbian, Bear, Transgendered? Bisexual? Drag King / Queen? Leather person? Etc. Did New Orleans play a role in your coming out? If so, how?

What role has New Orleans played in your growth as a LGBT+ person?

How does your gay experience in New Orleans differ from other cities?

Any special memories or scandalous stories?

Think of (and write about) one specific event that captures your feelings about being gay in New Orleans Tone: Your choice. Humorous, serious, poignant, angry, a combination thereof—you decide Font: Times New Roman, size 12 Length: 1,000 to 6,000 words or 2 to 12- pages Deadline: June 1, 2015 Submissions should be formatted in Microsoft Word and sent as an attachment

in an email to f.perez@sbcglobal.net by June 1, 2015. Please include “MGNO Submission” in the subject line. The main text of the email should include your name as you want it to appear in the book and your contact information.

If you are not interested in writing an essay, there is another way to preserve your history. The LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana is a non-profit community organization whose purpose is to: Educate the community on the importance of ensuring that LGBT+ historical materials are archived and made available for future generations to access, research, & study Promote the proper maintenance and preservation of historical LGBT+ materials Provide an information directory of archival resources where LGBT+ historical materials may be deposited or accessed for research and study Index, publish, and maintain a current list of locations of archived historical LGBT+ materials Develop financial resources to assist in the preservation and availability of certain LGBT+ collections Did you know that you might have valuable materials that chronicle our collective history? Archivists and curators are always on the look-out for items that document gay history—even things that you may not think are important. Organizational meeting minutes, carnival ball programs, costumes, Southern Decadence ephemera, and a host of other things you might have in a box in a closet need to be properly preserved for future generations. Have you considered what’s going to happen to these materials after you’re gone?

To learn more about the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, please visit http://www.lgbtarchivesla.org/.

On this site you can also view current Archives, Libraries, & Repositories with LGBT+ Holdings in the New Orleans area, as well as an extensive LGBT Bibliography with a listing of periodicals, books, and other print publications concerning the LGBT+ community of Louisiana.

Get your history out of the closet!

Book Reviews

by Frank Perez

Best Kept Boy in the World.

Arthur Vanderbilt. Magnus Books. 2014.

ISBN: 978-1936833-41-2. 185 pages. $19.99.

Best Kept Boy in the World is the story of Denny Fouts, a man Christopher Isherwood once called, “The most expensive male prostitute in the world.” The two were friends for years and Fouts even served as Isherwood’s muse by being the

inspiration for the character “Paul” in Isherwood’s classic book, Down There On A Visit. Fouts also inspired other prominent gay writers such as Gore Vidal, Truman Capote, and Somerset Maugham. Capote said of Fouts, “To watch him walk into a room was an experience. He was beyond good-looking; he was the single most charming-looking person I’ve ever seen.”

Fouts’ charm was not limited to writers; he also “entertained” barons, shipping tycoons, lords, princes, heirs, and artists.

Fouts was a socialite gifted with an uncanny ability to meet and charm rich and powerful men.

Fouts (1914-1948) led an incredibly fascinating life. Unfortunately, this book is not as charming as its subject. It’s not really a biography; the book offers little insight into what motivated Fouts or the influences that shaped what and who he became. A great deal of the book concerns itself with the men who became Fouts’ benefactors. In the process, Vanderbilt serves up tantalizing tidbits into Fouts relationship with the aforementioned famous writers, some of them borderline salacious.

After finishing the book, I realized I learned a lot more of what others thought of Fouts than I did of Fouts himself. His charm and influence may have been omnipresent but the man himself remains elusive. Gore Vidal once said it was a pity Fouts never wrote a memoir and after reading Best Kept Boy in the World, I completely agree.

Arthur Vanderbilt is a graduate of Wesleyan University and the University of Virginia School of Law. He has authored numerous books in several genres, including history, biography, memoirs, and essays. His books have been selections of the Book-of-the-Month Club, Readers Digest’s “Today’s Best Nonfiction,” and the Easton Press Series. He lives in New Jersey and Massachusetts.

Mardi Gras: Chronicles of the New Orleans Carnival. Errol Laborde.

Pelican, 2013. ISBN: 978-1-4556-1764-7.

213 pages. $35.00.

Although this book is not fresh off the presses, it remains an excellent introduction to Mardi Gras and the Carnival Season.

While Laborde provides a textual history of traditional Carnival in New Orleans, Mardi Gras: Chronicles of the New Orleans Carnival also features a wealth of vibrant and colorful pictures by photographer Mitchel L. Osborne. Osborne’s photographs are simply stunning.

The history is fairly standard and focused, for the most part, on “mainstream” Carnival, which is to say the older krewes such as Comus and Rex and their attendant traditions such as the Meeting of the Courts.

Laborde does include chapters and sections on other aspects of the Winter Bacchanalia such as Captains, Superkrewes, 12th Night, and Mardi Gras in other parts of the state.

Perhaps the most compelling chapter deals with the 1991 City Council ordinance proposed by Councilwoman Dorothy Mae Taylor that attempted to deny parade permits to krewes whose memberships were segregated on the basis of race. The proposed ordinance touched off a firestorm of controversy and exposed a white-hot tangle of racial nerves not seen in New Orleans since Union forces occupied the city after the Civil War. At the time, a Blue Ribbon Panel was appointed by the mayor to study the issue

and advise the Council. In the chapter’s opening, Laborde admits, “In the spirit of full disclosure, I will state here that I was appointed to that committee by Mayor Sidney Barthelemy, so my perspective is from the inside where, despite the perception of racial divisiveness as seen from the outside, black and white members worked hard to resolve an ordinance that some considered worthy but whose many parts few totally agreed with.”

Although I do not fully agree with Laborde’s assessment of the ordinance controversy, his insight as an insider is, nonetheless, valuable. For those interested in the history of Carnival, and especially how that issue is intertwined with the history of race, I recommend James Gill’s 1997 classic book Lords of Misrule: Mardi Gras and the Politics of Race in New Orleans.

Whereas Laborde’s is a coffee table book—and a good one at that—Gill’s is a history book. As such, Gill goes into a great amount of detail into two areas Laborde does not: French Carnival in New Orleans before the advent of Comus in 1857 and why the old-line krewes’ lieutenants’ costumes look strikingly like Klan outfits.

One aspect of Carnival both books neglect is Gay Carnival. Gill doesn’t mention the subject at all. Laborde does include a very brief section on Gay Carnival—less than a page of text and four pictures (one of the Bourbon Street Awards and three from a Satyricon Ball). A thorough book-length treatment of the history of Gay Carnival in New Orleans remains to be written. For those interested in Gay Carnival history, Howard Philips Smith, a researcher in California, has written a number of articles on the subject, many of which have been published in Arthur Hardy’s annual Mardi Gras Guide and other places.

Errol Laborde is the editor and publisher of New Orleans magazine and Louisiana Life magazine. He has won numerous awards for his journalism and is the founding president and a board member of the Tennessee Williams / New Orleans Literary Festival. He is also the author of I Never Danced With an Eggplant (On a Streetcar Before): Chronicles of Life and Adventures in New Orleans.

Mitchel L. Osborne has written extensively about New Orleans and Mardi Gras.

He lives in Washington State.

the "official" dish ...from 4 rienced, you may want to consider joining this creative and fun-loving group. The leather-oriented Mardi Gras krewe is beginning its 33rd year of “Leather, Love and Laughter” with its 2015 Rush Party on Sunday, March 8 from 3-5pm at the Phoenix bar, 941 Elysian Fields Avenue. Food will be provided.

Come socialize with the krewe and check out the opportunities to participate in an organization which builds community throughout the year and appreciates the talents and skills of its members. Three levels of membership are available: full lord, viscount and baron. "We hope to see you there."

For applications and more information about the krewe please visit the krewe's NEW website www.lordsofleather.org or contact a current member.

St. Patrick's Day Issue Deadline Tuesday, March 3rd 504.522.8049

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matters of healkth

by Jack Carrel, MPH Email: JCarrel@HAARTinc.org As we hear more and more about states allowing gay marriage, except our own of course, I thought it would be interesting to see what impact recognizing or refusing to recognize gay marriage has on our health. There have been a number of articles reporting research in this area. The references to these articles can be found at the end of this column.

Mark Hatzenbuehler and his team looked at the difference in mental health issues for lesbians, gay men and bisexual (LGB) individuals in the states that instituted bans on same sex marriage back in the 2004/2005 elections. What they found was a 36.6% increase in mood disorders, a 41.9% increase in any alcohol use disorders, a 36.3% increase in psychiatric comorbidity and a shocking 248.2% increase in generalized anxiety disorders.

They compared this to LGB folks in states not passing bans and did not see significant increases in those states, nor among heterosexuals in states that passed bans.

Richard Wight and his colleagues found some similar results. They looked at responses to the 2009 California Health Interview Survey. They found that samesex married LGB individuals were significantly less psychologically distressed than LGB individuals not in legally recognized

relationships, and that married heterosexuals were significantly less distressed than non-married heterosexuals. But across the spectrum, LGB individuals not in legally recognized relationships had the highest levels of distress.

Jose Bauermeister’s research took a slightly different look. He surveyed young gay and bisexual men about the impact of these measures on their view of the future, and their dreams of becoming fathers. What he found was that men who plan on raising children had higher levels of depression and lower levels of self-esteem in states with LGB restrictive policies than men with the same hopes in states without the bans.

He also found that in policy-restrictive states, the more a gay/bisexual man valued his fatherhood aspirations, the more symptoms of psychological distress he reported.

So such policies not only affect our current health status, they impact our future dreams.

These studies looked at the negative impact of marriage bans but what about in the states that didn’t ban gay marriage or that have passed legislation supporting gay marriage. Does this influence our health?

According to a couple studies, the answer is yes.

A study in Arizona, which did not pass

a community within communities

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

LENT “From dust ye came and to dust you shall return.” These are the traditional words uttered when placing ashes on ones forehead on the first day of Lent, aka Ash Wednesday. It is the day after Mardi Gras madness and debauchery. It is the start of longer days, crisp weeks, and the approach of more festivals and parades. The current trend is offer ashes “to go!” Even our Cathedral in the Episcopal Church boldly has a sign “Ashes on the go.” Wow cool stuff isn’t it? How contemporary, how cutting edge! The inconvenience of going to a church or holy place for ashes and recalling why we get ashes is being replaced by the convenience of ‘flash ash.’ Bam! You are done and outta there. If you detecting a note of disquietude you are correct oh reader of this tome!

The Church, that is to say, the body of Christ as the people of the Church has long hungered for a time of reflection. Over the centuries it seemed that we had that time to set aside from the drudge work or the world.

During this time peasant and king alike would consider their ways and try to make an amendment of life that is take a new direction for better spiritual and physical health. But this is the age of pills for weight loss, pills for a mood, drive through beverages and eats, and internet shopping. We are closing our selves off from one another.

We are privatizing our lives to such an extent that the whole idea of “the body of Christ” seems to be quickly coming to a close and an afterthought. If that happens what happens to our ideas of community or a community within communities?

Baptism has almost become secularized. It’s a time to “get the baby done” and have a great party never to enter the faith community again. The same seems to be the trend for ashes on Ash Wednesday.

Have we become so separated from the practice of faith that we simply want our ashes culturally to walk about as some vain sign or symbol? “Ya got ya ashes?” What do they honestly represent? How do we truly approach them especially in New Orleans? I have to admit that I have mixed feelings about our trend toward expediency and convenience. One the one had perhaps that is the only touch of faith one might experience and chance for the church to offer something. On the other hand to what end does it offer these signs and symbols?

Will anyone be changed, transformed, or moved to a new life by just getting ashes?

I find it hard to believe. Are we living into what Jesus told us not to? “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting (ashes?).”

Ashes should be a symbol of both our

a gay marriage ban, showed that lesbian, gay and bisexual people there had fewer mood disorders than those living in states that did pass bans.

Mark Hatzenbuehler, in another study in Massachusetts, looked at a group of gay and bisexual men who got services at a community health center. He looked at a number of issues, 12 months before Massachusetts legalized gay marriage and the 12 months after legalization. He found in the 12 months after the passing of the marriage law, medical visits by the group decreased by 13% and healthcare costs decreased by 10%. Medical visits about mental health issues decreased by 13% and costs decreased by 14%. Interestingly it didn’t matter if the men had partners or not, they still saw decreases.

Gilbert Gonzales and Lynn Blewett looked at disparities in health insurance coverage, specifically employer sponsored insurance nationwide. They looked at the differences between same sex relationships, married opposite-sex relationships and unmarried opposite-sex relationships.

They found disparities among both men and women in same-sex relationships throughout the country. Meaning that LGB individuals in same-sex relationships were less likely to have employer sponsored insurance than opposite-sex relationships.

The differences were largest for men in the South and women in the Midwest. But they also found that the disparities or differences were smaller in states that had approved same-sex marriage, civil unions or domestic partnerships.

So from this research, it seems to show that living in a state that has not approved gay marriage and/or has banned it, can have a negative impact on your mental health, access to health insurance and use of medical and mental health services. Living in a state like this appears to even impact your hopes for the future, if your dreams involve being a parent. On the other hand, living in a state that has approved gay marriage reduces mental health issues, provides more access to health insurance and reduces the number of times you need medical or mental health services, resulting in a reduction of medical costs.

Given that, it’s no surprise that the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Psychiatric Association have all issued unequivocal statements of support for marriage equality for same-sex couples. The American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, and others wrote in a Sep. 2007 amicus brief, “...allowing same-sex couples to marry would give them access to the social support that already facilitates and strengthens heterosexual marriages, with all of the psychological and physical health benefits associated with that support.”

As of Feb. 9, 2015, gay marriage has been legalized in 37 US states (AK, AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, MA, MD, ME, MN, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, UT, VA, VT, WA, WV, WI, and WY) and the District of Columbia. 13 states have gay marriage bans through either laws or constitutional amendments or both.

mortality and of LIFE! For in these self same passages is the following: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not the body more important than clothes? {yea, I can hear you now, “a straight guy wrote that.”) Is not LIFE MORE IMPORTANT THAN FOOD and the body more important than cloths?” Ashes should be rightfully about LIFE. We have measured time and what will we do with that measured time? Will we wallow in our own self pity or pity those who truly struggle?

Will we focus on our own story or begin to listen to the stories of others? Will we hide behind some veil of humanity or declare boldly I am of God’s good creation? If we choose to rejoice in our personhood and if we choose to bring dignity to ourselves and to our community then we must take seriously this time of Lent as a time of reflection and of change. It is not simply about “giving something up.” It is about self evaluation and self appraisal in honest ways.

This Lent let us not deprive ourselves of alcohol, tobacco, or calories and blame that on Lent. Do it because you need to for health reasons. Rather, find a bit of scripture that makes sense to you and contemplate that. Rather, reach out to someone

you have hurt or has hurt you and make it right. Rather, be mindful of those in need and not only pray for them but help them in some way. A man once said to be in the Friendly Bar, “Thank you for all that you do.” I say to him that he is living the Lenten promise of a good life with his mindful giving of food or money for those in need. For Bears and Leather boys I say when you give Easter baskets to kids in the Treme or Christmas gifts for children who have naught – you are living the good life of Lent. You are living into Lent when you are horrified and mourn the loss of a score of Coptic Christians to the evil that is ISIS. You are living the good life of Lent when you decide to support a living wage for U.S. workers. You are living the good life of Lent when you extend friendship to those that despise you and when rejected meet them only with equanimity.

Hatzenbuehler, M., McLaughlin, K., Keyes, K., & Hasin, D. (2010). The impact of institutional discrimination on psychiatric disorders in lesbian, gay, and bisexual populations: A prospective study. American Journal of Public Health, 100(3), 452-459.

Wight, R., Leblanc, A., Lee Badgett, M. (2013). Same-sex legal marriage and psychological well-being: Findings from the California health interview survey. American Journal of Public Health, 103(2), 339-46.

Bauermeister, J. (2013). How statewide LGB policies go from ‘‘Under Our Skin’’ to ‘‘Into Our Hearts’’: Fatherhood aspirations and psychological well-being among emerging adult sexual minority men. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, published online November 14, 2013.

Hatzenbuehler, M., O’Cleirigh, C., Grasso, C., Mayer, K., Safren, S., Bradford, J. (2012).

Effect of same-sex marriage laws on health care use and expenditures in sexual minority men: a quasi-natural experiment. American Journal of Public Health, 102(2):285-91.

Gonzales, G., & Blewett, L. (2014). National and state-specific health insurance disparities for adults in same-sex relationships.

American Journal of Public Health, 104(2), e95-e104.

Keep it simple. If you are not engaged in your communities do something to help your fellow human beings. When you offer dignity to others you dignify yourself. When you dignify yourself and others you are living into a good and holy LENT. Your time measured, what will you do? “From dust ye came. To dust ye shall return.”

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On the Carnival Red Carpet ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Hubert S Monkeys, Rip Naquin, Darwin Reed

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51st Bourbon Street Awards sponsored by Oz & Ambush Magazine, Winners Take Home $3,000 ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Hubert S Monkeys

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28th Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss led by King Cake Queen XXII Aubrey Synclaire ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Hubert S Monkeys, Darwin Reed

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under the gaydar

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

Book of the Month March is right around the corner and there is a fabulous parade that takes place just down the road from us in Jackson, Mississippi called the BANCORPSOUTH ZIPPITY DOO DAH® PARADE or better known as the Sweet Potato Queen Parade.

The parade was started by Jill Conner Browne who I had the honor of hearing speak last year at a Festigals luncheon here in NOLA. She is a wonderfully larger than life character who has authored several books all dealing with her organization The Sweet Potato Queens. After listening to her, I immediately bought two of her books and since the Sweet Potato Queen Weekend is right around the corner, I thought it would be appropriate to review one of her books, The Sweet Potato Queen’s Book of Love.

This national bestseller is a comic look at a fallen Southern Belle's perspective on love, life, marriage, men and being prepared. The chapters reflect different ways on how to deal with all of these subjects. I am especially fond of the following ones: Men Who Need Killing, Quite Frankly; Be Prepared On Account You Just Never Know and The Five Men You Must Have In Your Life. Browne has crafted a frank and hysterical look at an organization that started as a funny take on beauty queens into a popular phenomenon that has spawned a sold out weekend of events, several novels and a state of mind that shows people that with just a little ingenuity and a tiara, anyone can be a Queen.

Pulling stories form her own love life, her friends’ worlds and her upbringing, Browne weaves Southern humor into each tidbit of wisdom. Jill is a master storyteller and captivates the reader in her tales. It is easy to see why her books are as successful as her parade which started as two women in the back of a pick-up truck as part of the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade to a major event. Browne has a charismatic persona that comes through the pages of her book and makes the reader feel like she has been their friend for years.

That is the key reason this book is such a hit for me. When the author makes you relate on the same level with her situations, that is a true gift. Besides, I always knew I was a Queen. Who needs an organization to give you a crown; honey, you can buy them on Amazon. So make sure you order The Sweet Potato Queen’s Book of Love for all the advice you need to get through this life. For more information, go to www.sweetpotatoqueens.com. And for those who want a quick weekend getaway, head out to Jackson March 26 – 29 for the Sweet Potato Queen festival.

Hot Happenings Throw Me Something Mister! Let’s all have a safe and enjoyable Carnival. Enjoy the greatest free show on Earth, see on the parade route.

Thursday, February 26: The New Orleans Carnival Kings are on the Avenue,

Tulane Avenue Bar that is. They are premiering their fresh and exciting show on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month.

Started in 2002 by a marriage between Unisex Illusions and the Hardly Boys, The Carnival Kings popped into existence when the Bourbon Pub called for a Tuesday night show. The show sought to bring kings and queens together, in which were successful in bringing shows locally to The Bourbon Pub, Lucky Pierre’s, Ampersand, The Parish, Blue Nile, and other local bars in the New Orleans and Metairie area. Nationally they have been featured in cities such as Austin, Tucson, Columbus, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Atlanta, and Pensacola. Now a king-run venture, the weekly “Tuesday at midnight” show boasts the longest running, most successful drag king show in New Orleans, and the state of Louisiana. The cover is $6 and you must be 21+ to enter.

Doors cover starts at 9pm with show at 10pm. Tulane Avenue Bar is located at 3813 Tulane Avenue.

Sunday, March 1: Hop To It, you need to become a sponsor of the Gay Easter Parade and this is your chance. The organization’s 5th annual Sponsorship Party is from 3-5pm at Cutter’s. People who sign up and pay as sponsors on that day are allowed complimentary food, well drinks, domestic beer and wine. Mix and mingle with the new Grand Marshals Misti Ates and Deja Deja-Vue' of this fabulous event as well as the board of directors and other sponsors. There will also be a live auction.

There will be a $5 cover that includes food and a cash bar for those who want to join the festivities as a non-sponsor. For more information on the Gay Easter Parade, go to www.GayEasterParade. Cutter’s is located at 706 Franklin Avenue.

Sunday, March 1: Everything old is new again at the 6th Annual Recycled Fashion Show featuring clothing from the Bridge House Thrift Store that has been “tweaked” by local designers into fashionable outfits.

This hip runway event is from 6 – 9pm at Rock And Bowl located at 3016 South Carrolton Avenue. The event also features over 15 restaurants, a silent auction (featuring items modeled on the runway), a cash bar, and entertainment! Sponsorship levels begin at $250, tickets are $25 (or $30 at the door) and $50 for VIP. (VIP Tickets: Each VIP ticket holder will receive 2 drink tickets, good for either 1 well brand cocktail, 1 Domestic Beer, a soft drink or bottled water. There will also be a VIP area with limited seating and seats first come first serve to anyone with a VIP wristband.)

Contact Stephanie Clary at 504.821.7134 or sclary@bridgehouse.org for more information, to purchase tickets, to join the planning committee, or to volunteer.

Friday, March 6: Jump to it at this year’s annual Julia Jump! The Preservation Resource Center proudly announces the 38th Annual Julia Jump at the historic Kingsley House located at 1600 Constance Street. The Patron Party is from 7 to 8pm with music by Maggie Bell, champagne, cocktails, and cuisine from world-famous

Emeril’s. You also get a sneak preview of amazing auction items. The Jump is from 8 to 11pm with music by The Wiseguys, raffle and raucous auction, New Orleans’ finest food and cocktails. Tickets start at $75. For more information, go to www.prcno.org.

Friday, March 6: The Gay Easter Parade’s events are going full steam ahead with the 7th Eggstravaganza at GrandPre’s from 8 – 10pm. These noteworthy fundraisers are always a great time; and remember all of the proceeds go to put on the parade and anything above that is given to Food For Friends, a vital part of the NO/ AIDS Task Force. There will be a drag show, and live auctions. GrandPre’s is located at 834 North Rampart Street. For more information, go to www.GayEasterParade.com.

Saturday, March 14: Drag is the featured entertainment as a virtual who’s who in the New Orleans Drag Community will perform at the 14th Drag Extravaganza.

This Gay Easter Parade event takes place at Oz from 8-10pm. Come out and enjoy this amazing night of great performances, over the top costumes, high hair and heels. For more information, go to www.GayEasterParade.com.

Tuesday, March 17 – Sunday 22: You only live Once! ONCE, winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and winner of the 2013 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album will play at the Saenger Theatre beginning March 17 – 22.

Presented by the New Orleans Theatre Association, ONCE is a part of the East Jefferson General Hospital Broadway in New Orleans 2015 season. Tickets for ONCE start at $25 available at the Saenger Theatre Box Office, BroadwayInNewOrleans.com, and all Ticketmaster outlets or by calling 800.982.2787.

Thursday March 19: New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders (NOAGE) is hosting a Prepare to Care Seminar – A Caregiving Planning Guide from 6 – 7:30pm at the New Orleans Healing Center. For more information, go to www.noagenola.org. The New Orleans Healing Center is located at 2372 St. Claude Avenue.

Thursday, March 26: John Waters is coming to NOLA with his one-man show celebrating his film career and obsessional tastes entitled This Filthy World: Filthier and Dirtier. Waters is the iconic film director, screenwriter, actor, stand-up comedian, journalist, visual artist, and art collector, who rose to fame in the early 1970s for his transgressive cult films. Waters’ 1970s and early ’80s films feature his regular troupe of actors known as the Dreamlanders—among them Divine, Mink Stole, David Lochary, Mary Vivian Pearce, and Edith Massey. He returns to the Crescent City with his show at the Joy Theatre starting at 8:30pm. Rumor has it that the Corner Pocket is one of his favorite hangouts and where he got his inspiration for one of the places in the movie Pecker. The Joy Theatre is located at 1200 Canal Street.

To buy tickets go to www.dworld.us or www.thejoytheater.com.

Saturday, March 28: New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders (NOAGE) is hosting their monthly Coffee Talk Discussion dealing with Preventing Financial Exploitation from 10 – 11:30am at the New Orleans Healing Center. For more information, go to www.noagenola.org. The New Orleans Healing Center is located at 2372

St. Claude Avenue.

Saturday, March 28: One Night Only at NOCCA! BROADWAY@NOCCA and Mark Cortale proudly presents Ana Gasteyer featuring Sirius XM Radio Star Seth Rudetsky as pianist and host for one night only at Lupin Hall at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts starting at 7:30pm.

Ana Gasteyer is best known for her incomparable work on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. During her six year stint, she created some of the most famous SNL characters including middle school music teacher Bobbie Moughan-Culp, NPR radio host Margaret Jo, Lilith Fair poetess Cinder Calhoun, as well as spot-on impressions of Martha Stewart, Celine Dion and Hillary Rodham Clinton. She also recently starred in the sitcom Surbagatory.

On stage, she made her triumphant Broadway debut as Columbia in THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW. Since then, Gasteyer earned raves as Elphaba in WICKED on Broadway, and originated the role for the Chicago production, earning a Jefferson Award nomination.

NOCCA is located at 2800 Chartres Street. To buy tickets, go to www.broadwaynola.com.

Party Down Carnival has come and gone, and as we enter the Lenten season, remember do not give up too many good things. The parties are just getting good. I started my week of events on Tuesday with a little theatre excursion with the Hotel Monteleone.

We had nibbles and cocktails before at the historic hotel before going to see Annie at the Saenger Theatre. It was a great traveling show with a talented cast and a spectacular set. And this show brought back such memories for me, because it was the first big theatrical show I had seen ever as a child and my first time at the Saenger.

It is surprising how something so small can evoke such fond memories of my parents exposing me to my first musical.

This week was my week to dine at some of the best restaurants in the city, some fairly new and some old standards.

On Wednesday, I started with a networking event at G & G’s Dinerama for the National Association of Caterers and Events. This restaurant has been newly renamed and is impressive. G & G’s serves stylized comfort food and is a perfect place for private events. Next, I went to dinner at Oxalis located in the Bywater with some friends.

The service, craft cocktails and cuisine is wonderful. I followed it up on Thursday with dinner at Arabella in the Marigny located next door to Kajun’s Pub. This eatery is becoming my newest favorite spot. The food is good, the prices are reasonable and the service is outstanding. Their black pepper fettuccini is to die for. Then on Friday, my friends and I went to an old favorite in the Bywater, Jack Dempsey’s. It is crawfish season and Lent, so this local restaurant is the perfect place to get your seafood fix. It is down home cooking at its best with a great local flavor and atmosphere. Nothing beats having some fried seafood paired with a draft beer served in a frosted mug at Dempsey’s. Now this is Louisiana living at its best.

There is an intimate quality about walking parades and on Saturday, I saw two in the Marigny. Tit Rex and the Krewe of Chewbaccus parades were unique and quirky. I am a complete Sci Fi geek so I just

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Welcome home Kyra!

Happy Birthday Freddie!

Hello Mitch!!

Hostess Jawakatema Davenport @ B-Bob’s

Hello Jerry & Company!

Amber Douglas with her boys Hello Danni Bond

Miss Cie & Nicole Dubois performing @ B-Bob’s

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Corey, Miss Cie & Lee @ B-Bob’s

Hello Bunnie Hopson

Mart & Stevie of Osiris

Amber Douglas

Happy Joe Cain with Jasyn

Miss Cie with Jeremy & Stevie

Hello Renita!!!!

O’Brian & Miss Amber @ Order of Osiris

Hello Rob, Nicholas & Eugene

Happy Mardi Gras Mobile!

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Carnival Time ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Miss Cie

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Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLVII: If You Build It They Will Come ~ Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center ~ Photos by Rip Naquin

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trodding the boards

by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Camille at Mid-City Theatre through March 1 As I sit down to write this review on a cold Ash Wednesday, I’m tempted merely to say “Go, just go see Camille!” as only five performances remain of this NOLA Project production that my fellow critics have already, and justifiably, lauded.

I believe my colleagues, though, overlooked one of the triumphs of this presentation. In his reworking of Alexandre Dumas’ novel La Dame aux camélias, Charles Ludlam certainly sprinkled his script with witty turns of phrase (“I always look well when I’m near death.” “I like older men; they’re so grateful.”).

Yet Ludlam could be prolix, ladling out exposition with a heavy hand. If I still remember the ethereal hilariousness of his Le Bourgeois Avant-Garde, the original productions The Mystery of Irma Vep and Galas could be a mite tedious to sit through.

And the last revival of Camille here, nearly fifteen years ago, was not able to overcome this completely either.

In the most recent local Ludlam outing, however, a superb Irma Vep, directors Ricky Graham and Jeffery Roberson did a little judicious pruning which resulted in a

under the gaydar ...from 18 adored Chewbaccus and want to give a special shout out to the Avatar ladies, you rocked it. My friends and I donned our costumes and then went to the Krewe of Petronius’ Masquerade Party at the Imperial Room of Five Happiness. The food was awesome and they had a special gathering in lieu of their ball this year.

Sunday was a day of parades on the Avenue. There is something that is so magical about seeing a Mardi Gras parade on St. Charles Avenue on a beautiful day.

The temperature was perfect as my friends and I caught the parade at the corner of Jackson and St. Charles. We saw two of the four parades that day, King Arthur and Carrollton. Both parades were wonderful specially King Arthur that had lots of people I knew riding like Mr. Frankie Fierce and a host of others. We caught some cool throws like the life size sock monkey (thanks Frankie).

The next week I went to Cabo San Lucas for a conference on Wednesday and returned at the end of the week. Stay tuned for the next issue for my Ambush on the Road in Cabo.

On the following Sunday, I flew back in town from Cabo San Lucas and hit the Mardi Gras ground running literally. I landed at the airport at six and was met by some friends with my tuxedo. I did a quick change that would impress Superman and we were off to the Lords of Leather Ball at the Alario Center in Westwego. I have been to almost all the gay balls this year and I have to say that the Lords pulled out all the stops and produced an event that surpassed the standard. The show was entertaining, funny and filled with remarkable costumes. Captain Gary Vandeventer’s opening number was breathtaking and he kept the momentum all the way to the announcement of the royalty. Bianca del Rio and Darwin Singleton from Mobile kept the tableau moving at

Sam Dudley & A.J. Allegra in Camille (Photo by John Barrois) sleeker and altogether more hilarious show.

Roberson, whose brilliant stage per-

[continued on 26] a steady pace so as not to get bored which often happens at these things. Congrats to the entire krewe to setting the bar high for next year.

Lundi Gras, which has become just as popular as Fat Tuesday, was equally as fun for me attending two very different Carnival events, but both very festive and memorable. The first was the Fat Monday Luncheon at Arnaud’s Restaurant. The FML is a long running gay event that is steeped in tradition but still fun and flamboyant. Guests are dressed in suits and tuxes as they rub shoulders with others as they enjoy a threecourse meal. They give out cute awards like the Rona Barret Gossip Award and the Cheerleader Award before they finally name the In Town and Out of Town Queens.

Immediately following the lunch the group goes downstairs and follows the queens who ride via pedi-cab to Good Friends to continue the celebration. It was a gorgeous day to parade down Bourbon Street behind a second line band with throngs of people watching.

After, we went to Albert Carey’s Orpheus party in his Warehouse District condo to have some of his renowned red beans and rice. His recipe for this Crescent City delicacy is legendary. We pre-gamed at his house before going to the Orpheus Ball at the Convention Center. I love this ball whose celebrity monarchs were Lisa Vanderpump from the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Ron White, the cast of NCIS New Orleans and Dierks Bentley. The Orpheuscapade has great music supplied by country music singer and hottie Dierks Bentley who whipped the crowd into a frenzy then was followed by two cover bands. But everyone comes for catching major throws as the floats pull into the center and proceed to bombard the guests with lots of throws. If you missed the parade this year, you may be able to catch some of their throws from my carriage at Easter – it’s a distinct possibility. We saw lots of people

we knew and this event surprisingly has a huge gay audience so there were lots of pretty boys around.

Mardi Gras was quite the day of experiences. Starting early in the morning, my friends Beaux, Barrett and I went to the delightful Laura Tennyson’s annual Mardi Gras morning kick-off party that began at 9am. Her husband Gary who is a fabulous chef created quite the spread of salmon quiche, fried chicken, bacon, shrimp and grits and a host of breakfast breads. Of course there was flowing mimosas and bloody mary’s to complement the cuisine.

After laying the foundation for the day and connecting with many friends, we strolled down to the La Maison Marigny Bed and Breakfast for a wonderful soiree hosted by John Ramsey and Dewey Donihoo. There were men folk aplenty there to mix and mingle with as well as great bites and libations. Next up was the Bourbon Street Awards hosted by RuPaul Drag Race Season Six Winner Bianca del Rio and Blanche Debris. After the contest I popped upstairs to Ambush Headquarters for the Mardi Gras Bead Toss. King Cake Queen Aubrey Synclaire did a beautiful job kicking off the festivities of Gay Mardi Gras and she looked absolutely stunning in her outfit. What I love about this event is seeing all the new people enjoy this amazing balcony party.

This incredible event hosted by Rip and Marsha of Ambush was a highlight of the day enjoying the food, camaraderie and men showing their “assets” as we toss beads down to them from above. It truly is a uniquely New Orleans Mardi Gras experience.

Leaving there we stopped at Bourbon Vieux to see what it was like tossing beads from the straight area of the Quarter, same thing just more boobies. We then flitted in and out most of the gay bars stopping at Oz, Good Friends, the Pub, Lafitte’s in Exile, 700 Club (which was particularly fun) and Corner Pocket having a blast at each location. Finally we called it an early evening around 8pm. What a great Carnival Day, now let the St. Patty and Easter events begin.

In Other Gay News I hate to admit that television viewing is not one of my past times. If I want to catch a series, I wait till it comes out on Netflix then binge watch it. So I was not familiar with what was on the Logo channel until Ms. Bianca del Rio and RuPaul’s Drag Race showed me the light last season. Now I regularly watch several of the shows, so I thought you may be interested in knowing what is on the cue for next season. Last season was Logo TV’s highest rated year ever (Thank you Bianca). So it is no wonder they unveiled its largest, most diverse programming slate to date, including three original series, two returning hits, and a newly formed documentary division. Entering its tenth year, Logo TV is increasing original programming to strengthen its momentum as one of television’s fastest growing networks.

The new slate and announcements include: Scripted Series (“Cucumber,” and “Banana”); Reality Series (“Behind the Movies”, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “Secret Guide to Fabulous”); Special (“Trailblazers” and “The New Now Next Awards”); Documentaries (“Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word” and “Matt Shepard Is a Friend of Mine”).

Here is a brief little synopsis of each of the shows:

Cucumber and Banana - Premiering April 13 Russell T Davies, the powerhouse behind “Queer as Folk” and “Doctor Who,” returns with his most ambitious series to date: “Cucumber” and “Banana.” In a television first, the two dramas are interlinked; featuring parallel stories and characters exploring 21st century gay life in all its powerful, witty, dark and uplifting guises through the lens of two disparate generations. The hour-long “Cucumber” will explore the lives and misadventures of Henry Best and his long-suffering boyfriend of nine years, Lance Sullivan. The half-hour “Banana” will follow the individual lives of younger characters orbiting around Henry’s world, telling stories of modern love – the romantic, the obsessed, the hopeful, the lonely, the lost, and the lucky – in an urban Manchester, England setting.

Behind the Movies - Premiering This Spring Andy Warhol once said, “It’s the movies that have really been running things in America ever since they were invented.

They show you what to do, how to do it, when to do it, how to feel about it, and how to look how you feel about it.” With films continuing to dominate and influence pop culture, this series dissects the filmmaking process to share never-before-told stories that shaped classics like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “Sunset Boulevard,” and “Valley of the Dolls.”

Logo TV Documentary Division Following the success of “Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word,” a groundbreaking documentary about transgender youth that premiered in November 2014, Logo TV has launched a documentary division to profile the stories of LGBT pioneers from some of today’s most talented new filmmakers. The specials include “Matt Shepard Is a Friend of Mine,” a powerful feature documentary about Matthew Shepard, the young gay man who was tortured and murdered in one of the most notorious hate crimes in U.S. history. Directed by Michele Josue, a close friend of Shepard’s, the film revisits the shocking case with never-before-seen photos, rare video footage, and new revelations about Shepard’s all-too-brief life.

RETURNING SERIES AND SPECIALS RuPaul’s Drag Race - Season 7 Premiering This Spring Secret Guide to Fabulous - Season 2 Premiering This Fall Trailblazers - Premiering June 28 From the continued march to marriage equality to the growing visibility of transgender people and issues, the LGBT community is still steadfast in its tireless dedication for rights and acceptance. Logo TV will once again honor the pioneers who have broken new ground in the quest for LGBT equality, with its now annual event, “Trailblazers,” premiering on June 28 during LGBT Pride month. The one-hour special will feature celebrities, politicians, activists and trendsetters who are transforming our cultural landscape, as well as musical performances from some of today’s biggest stars.

If you are not familiar with Logo TV, it is a leading entertainment brand inspired by the LGBT community and reflects the creative class across television, digital and social platforms. Logo is part of MTV’s network of brands including MTV, MTV2, MTV.com, mtvU, MTV Hits and MTV Jams.

GayMardiGras.c om • Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Feb. 24-Marc h 9, 2015 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 23

945.9264, NewOrleansPhoenix.COM RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM TROPICAL ISLE: Home of the Hand Grenade, 721 Bourbon St., 529.4109, TropicalIsle.COM TULANE AVENUE BAR, 3813 Tulane Ave., 488.1400 VOODOO LOUNGE, 718 N. Rampart, 265.0953

CANAL STREET

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health

900

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

New Orleans, LA [504] New Orleans Urgent Care, 201 Decatur St., 700 Magazine St., 552.2433, NewOrleansUrgentCare.com

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attorneys New Orleans, LA [504] Compass & Tureau, LLC, Troy A. Tureau , Attorney at Law, 3801 Canal St., Suite 301 504.308.1608, troy@compasstureau.com, www.CompassTureau.com

bars Mobile, AL [251] B-Bob's Downtown, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, B-Bobs.COM Flip Side Bar & Patio, 54 S. Conception St., 431.8819, FlipSideBarPatio.COM GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900 THE MIDTOWN PUB, 153 Florida St., 450.1555 Pensacola, FL [850] 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, SPLASH, 2183 Highland Rd., 242.9491, SplashBR.COM Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457

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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, 717 Toulouse St., 587.7782 TWO GUYS CUTTING HAIR, 2372 St. Claude Ave., Suite 125, appointments: Adikus 215.519.5030, Trent 504.239.2397

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

ST. PHILIP

M

Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271 Houston, TX [713]

hair salons

NEON BOOTS DANCEHALL & SALOON, 11410 Hempstead Hwy., 677.0828, www.neonbootsclub.com

ORLEANS

DUMAINE

FR

Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921

DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

Metairie, LA [504] FOUR SEASONS & PATIO STAGE BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, FourSeasonsBar.com New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 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, CornerPocket.NET COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860, Facebook.COM/GoldenLanternBar GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM GRANDPRE'S, 834 N. Rampart St., 267.3615, Facebook.com/grandpres KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735, KajunPub.COM LUCKY PIERRE'S, 735 Bourbon St., 586.1836, LuckyPierresNOLA.com OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields,

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., 1526 Magazine, 566.1833 [is2514]

circuit/events Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015, 16th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.com Sept. 2-7, 2015, 44th Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 150,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.com Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2015, Halloween 32, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.com Dec. 26, 2015-Jan. 1, 2016, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.com Feb. 5-9, 2016, 67th Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.com

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

florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381 Marrero, LA [504] I BLOOM FLOWERS & GIFTS, 1604 Barataria Blvd., 504.341.0248

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

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; marsha@ripandmarsha.com

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

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.

[0714 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.

[0814] CHATEAU LEMOYNE FRENCH QUARTER, 301 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70112, Phone: 504.581.1303, http:// www.hiclneworleanshotelsite.com/gayhotelsnew-orleans. Enjoy a stay enriched with the culture and history of New Orleans at Chateau LeMoyne. Our historic building features all the best of old-time architecture and our prime location allows guests to stay just steps from the French Quarter, while still at enough distance to enjoy a peaceful night’s rest. Versatile guest accommodations include charmingly appointed suites and cottages, while on-site amenities include drinks and dining, a scenic courtyard area and pool, and meeting and event space. When you’re ready to explore, top New Orleans attractions are only moments away. We look forward to welcoming you to the “Big Easy.”

ELYSIAN GUEST HOUSE, 1008 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117, Phone: 1.504.324.4311, info@elysianguesthouse.com.

The Elysian Guest House is within walking distance to all the fun spots. Five to steps to a few blocks to all the action. We have a Jacuzzi too.

Call and lets talk.

THE FRENCH QUARTER GUEST HOUSES, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 1.800.367.5858, FrenchQuarterGuestHouses.com, email: Info@frenchquarterguesthouses.com. Four meticulously restored boutique inns located in the heart of the French Quarter's most popular LGBT neighborhood. Each building's individual character and charm provides an unforgettable authentic French Quarter experience!

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

24 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • Feb. 24-Mar c h 9, 2015 • Of fic ial Gay East er Parade Guide© sinc e 1999 • GayEast erParade.c om

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: kurt@maisonmacarty.com. Luxury gay owned and operated bed and breakfast. 8 bedrooms with ensite baths, pool, sun deck and beautiful courtyard. Sleep, eat and play at Maison de Macarty,. Book it now!

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.

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 (Swedish/Deep Tissue); heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter.

Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork & Thai/Sport Stretching massage). Call/text 504.458.5996 / For pictures http://www.christophernola.com.

License #LA4553 [is2515]

media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Parade Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Pride Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 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 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257 CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, 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 GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722 GERMAINE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661 HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077 HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662 LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, MUSEE CONTI HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631 OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART,

925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square WORLD WAR 2 MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012, http://nationalww2museum.org

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

organizations 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 BIG EASY STOMPERS, Country & Western line dancing. Weekly lessons and monthly Country & Western dance party, www.bigeasystompersneworleans.com, info@bigeasystompersneworleans.com BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 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 EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance Region Two, Inc.), 4550 North Blvd. Ste. 250, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, 225.927.1269, www.haartinc.org, offers a complete continuum of care to people living with HIV/AIDS including housing, primary care, medications, case management, and an array of supportive services. In addition HAART provides HIV prevention education and FREE testing to the Baton Rouge area.

HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com/ambush KREWE OF AMON-RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, kreweofarmeinius.org KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF NARCISSUS, PO Box 3832, New Orleans, LA 70177. Contact: 504.228.9441 KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 1102, Kenner, LA. 70063-1102, www.kreweofpetroius.net KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/KCQ KREWE OF URSUS, kreweofursus@aol.com

LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, 1308 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.475.7911, www.lgbtarchivesla.org LORDS OF LEATHER, 1631 Elysian Fields, #161, 70117, www.lordsofleather.org Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans, services at 10am, 6200 St Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118; 504.270.1MCC www.mccneworleans.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 BEAR AND BEAR TRAPPER SOCIAL CLUB, P.O. Box 57756, New Orleans, LA 70157-7756, 504.298.0061, theneworleansbears.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 PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org, info@pflagno.org PRIDE CELEBRATION in New Orleans NOLAPride.ORG PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 RENEGADE BEARS OF LOUISIANA, PO Box 3083, New Orleans, LA 70177; renegadebearsoflouisiana@gmail.com SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM ST. ANNA'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 1313 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116 947.2121, stannanola.org VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com

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

pharmacy Baton Rouge, LA [225] AVITA PHARMACY, offers personalized, convenient care to those affected by chronic illnesses. Avita offers free delivery, co-pay assistance, benefit coordination, and refill reminder calls as well as access to a pharmacist 24/7.

Every prescription filled today helps Avita give back to the community tomorrow. www.avitapharmacy.com New Orleans, LA [504] AVITA PHARMACY, offers personalized, convenient care to those affected by chronic illnesses. Avita offers free delivery, co-pay assistance, benefit coordination, and refill reminder calls as well as access to a pharmacist 24/7.

Every prescription filled today helps Avita give back to the community tomorrow. www.avitapharmacy.com MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312, www.MumfreysPharmacy.COM. Supporting & serving the LGBT Community for over 20 years.

Local pharmacy offering personalized family-like service, automatic refills & free metro wide confidential pickup & delivery. Also offering shipping for out-side our delivery area. When you call us you speak to a person, not a machine. See our ad.

photography

Loewenthal, your local Realtor. Buy/Sell/Lease.

List your home from NO to BR. LGBT FQ Resident. Free Appraisal. 504.388.6150 / 225.205.8552 Cell, 504.891.6400 Off, Micahsells@gmail.com, 1820 St Charles Ave. LATTER & BLUM, Agent Brian M. Pawlowski, brianrealtor@aol.com, Agent Stace McDonald, stacerealtor@aol.com, 840 Elysian Fields, 451.2495

restaurants Mandeville, LA [985] The Po-Boy Shack, 1703 N. Causeway Blvd., 626.1303 Metairie, LA [504] Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com New Orleans, LA [504] 801 Royal, 801 Royal St., 581.0801, 801Royal.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, 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 Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.COM, 371.5074 Gene's Po-Boys, 1040 Elysian Fields, 943.3861 Horn's, 1940 Dauphine St., 459.4676 Lil Vic’s Rosticceria, 719 Toulouse, 304.1238 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, OrleansGrapevine.com Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, QuartermasterDeli.NET Retrouvailles Bistro & Balcony Dining, 700 Bourbon St., 523.1485 The Ruby Slipper, 2001 Burgundy St., 525.9355

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 COK (Clothing or Kinkl), 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 HIT PARADE, 741 Bourbon St., Facebook.COM/HitParadeNOLA MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 MR. BINKY'S BOUTIQUE, 107 Chartres St., 302.2095, MrBinkys.com 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

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM MID-CITY THEATRE, 3240 Toulouse, 488.1460, MidCityTheatre.COM NEW ORLEANS FRINGE FESTIVAL, NOFringe.ORG

tours New Orleans, LA [504] Gay New Orleans Walking Tour, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, (LGBT Business of the Year) 638 St. Ann St., 568.0717. follow Gay New Orleans Walking Tour @ Facebook.COM

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

real estate New Orleans, LA [504] GARDNER REALTORS,

Micah

GayMardiGras.c om • Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • Feb. 24-Marc h 9, 2015 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 25

wear it out

by Johnny Joseph Delgadillo, Johnny Love Email: cuttingedgediva@yahoo.com

seconds gave me the entire run down without leaving one pin out and in the end I was left in AWWWW. I can only imagine that those pins represented a few of the years this gentleman had attended the Hunties can I say that I have seen balls. some jewelry in my life but nothing comThen we go to guests of the ball who pared to what I saw at the balls this Mardi were not queens or kings but just their to Gras ball season. The LGBT community enjoy the ball. Bonita Folse you were was out in full force letting the children serving me boobies and bling for days. have it when it came to their choices in Loved it!!!!! The swarovski crystal mask jewelry. Men and women alike were showwas amazeballz. Gorgeous. Oh and that casing jewelry pieces that symbolized black leather bustier. Ummm delicious their krewes, their reigns as kings and yum yums. queens, personal style, I will say it once again and dare I say money. Yes that I had a blast at the balls money. Some of what I watching the costume prewas seeing was the real sentations and shows but deal. “BLING” for days. what really got my atten“BLING” for years. tion was the “BLING!” I Hunties I am talking know that some of what I “BLING” that gave me life. was seeing was the real I only had the chance deal but it was all to go to two balls. AmonAMAZEBALLZ! The jewRa and Lords of Leather. elry is what caught my atI do have to say that I tention more than anything. enjoyed both being that I Well done everybody. have never been to a Gay I can’t wait to see what you Tami Tarmac Mardi Gras ball before. will all be serving next year.

Yes I enjoyed the cosAs for this year I have got tumes but at this point I to give the “It’s all about have got to talk about what the BLING” 2015 Mardi really floored me.

Gras ball best in jewelry “It’s all about the award to............

BLING, bout the BLING, Drum roll please. no treble.”

Wait.... Wait a minute!

First off the show/ We have a three way drag queens were letting tie............ have. Serving it in a big This years three winway. LOL! Stop it. You know ners of the “It’s all about what I mean. Their hair? the BLING” 2015 Mardi Their gowns? No their jewGras Ball best in jewelry elry. I mean crystal neckaward are........ laces forcing one to put Drum roll once again Monica Synclairesunglasses on. Crystal please.

Kennedy pieces that had to have Tami Tarmac (Lords weighed more than a few of Leather ball), Monica pounds. Earrings that Synclaire-Kennedy made hotel chandeliers (Lords of leather ball) and look small. Necklaces that Dominique DeLorean put Elizabeth Taylor look (Amon-Ra Ball). poor. Bracelets. Earrings.

Not that everybody SERIOUSLY!!!! “BLING”. didn’t serve a full buffet of From the show BLING. You all looked queens/drag queens we amazing, fabulous, and then jump to the krewe gorgeous. I am looking members and all of their forward to seeing what you pins encrusted in rhineDominique DeLorean give me at next years balls stones and real gems.

Upon coming up with the idea for the trodding the boards article (thank you Countess C. Alice and friend) I started to think. There has got to ...from 23 be something to all of the pins I am sona Varla Jean Merman suggests that he seeing all the men wearing on the tuxes shares some theatrical DNA with Ludlam, also. Countess C. Alice explained how has helmed the current incarnation of the pins represented the different krewes Camille and, though I’m not sure if he’s themes for Mardi Gras balls and their done any trimming of it, this “Lady of the themes from the past events. Each pin Camellias” never lags, instantly engaging had its own story. I got a quick run down the audience and never letting go. on what one man's pins and broaches What’s the secret? Roberson and his were from and “WOW” was I fascinated. marvelous cast perfectly balance high & He had abut 10 pins on and within 20 low humor; verbal pyrotechnics with visual

It’s all about the BLING, Bout the BLING, No treble.

slapstick; period stylization with anachronistic references; comedy &, eventually, pathos; and, most importantly, the reality of the characters’ emotional lives with knowing winks to the audience as to the absurdity of it all. Too much or too little of any of these ingredients and the soufflé could fall flat. But this Camille sustains its lighterthan-air approach throughout, while acknowledging the bona fide tragedy of Marguerite Gautier.

In this, Roberson has a magnificent collaborator in A.J. Allegra who is simply astonishing as Marguerite. Unrecognizable beneath Brooklyn Schaffer’s deluxe wigs and Leslie Claverie’s cunning make-up, Allegra captures the courtesan’s sophisticated frivolousness, mixing champagne elegance with outrageous sight gags–wait till you see how she rings for her servants!

The rest of the cast—including a mischievously subtle Michael P. Sullivan as Marguerite’s put upon housekeeper, Sean Patterson as a frenemy whose personality is as brazen as her ta-ta’s are bodacious, and Sam Dudley as Armand, Marguerite’s paramour who’s as two-dimensional as Jaime Bird’s props—is all of a piece with Roberson’s vision.

As we don’t often see women portraying men on stage, special mention must be made of Kristin Witterschein who, after disguising herself as a man in NOLA Project’s Twelfth Night, here becomes one, and an older humpbacked one at that, with such precision that she could next be cast as Leslie Jordan’s twin brother.

I’d claim that Cecile Casey Covert’s opulent costumes are her best ever but I just said that last month about her work in Gone with the Breaking Wind (which returns to Mid-City Theatre on April 2); if GWTBW outdresses Camille by a petticoat, it’s only because of Scarlett’s curtain dress, which even outdoes Carol Burnett’s.

Let’s hope the weather will have warmed up by the time you’re reading this, but even if it’s gray and cloudy, The NOLA Project’s Camille is guaranteed to brighten your day.

Curtains Up After the annual “intermission” caused

by Mardi Gras, there’ll be a spate of openings in the coming weeks. If you’re ready to head back indoors after all the theater we had in the streets, check out some of these offerings.

The Elm Theatre’s One Act Play Festival will feature four local writers (Jared Gore, Pamela Davis-Noland, Cavan Hallman and Stephanie Garrison) who had one month to create a 20-minute one-act based on the theme of “Violence”. Each night from Feb. 26-Mar. 1, two of these playlets (split into Group A and Group B) will be presented followed by Rajiv (Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo) Joseph’s Gruesome Playground Injuries in which, over 30 years, the lives of Kayleen and Doug intersect at the most bizarre intervals. Performances are at 8pm at The Old Marquer Theatre (2400 St. Claude Ave.).

Over at the Jefferson Performing Arts Society’s Teatro Wego! in Westwego there shouldn’t be any violence in Sex Please, We’re Sixty. But who knows what will happen when a scientist tries out a “little blue pill” he’s created for women at a New Orleans bed’n’breakfast. Directed by “Uncle” Wayne Daigrepont, Sex Please runs Feb. 27-Mar. 15.

The musical play Always . . . Patsy

Cline will be presented at the WWII Museum’s Stage Door Canteen from Feb. 27- Apr. 5. Inspired by the legendary country singer, who died tragically at age 30 in a plane crash, Always features many of Cline’s hits including Crazy, I Fall to Pieces, and Walkin’ After Midnight.

Over in St. Tammany, the Pulitzer Prizewinner Doubt opens at the Slidell Little Theater on Feb. 27. Directed by Gary Mendoza and starring Larry Johnson, Jr. as Father Flynn and Anne Pourciau as Sister Aloysius, Doubt examines innocence, guilt, and the collective morality of society. It continues through Mar. 15.

Playmakers of Covington presents Joe Orton’s brilliant black farce Loot which follows the fortunes of two young thieves who rob the bank next door to the funeral parlor where one of them works. Wanna guess where they hide the loot? Loot’s directed by Anysia Manthos Genre who won an Ambie Award for Best Actress in a Play in 2007. I’ll look forward to seeing another side of her talents during the run Mar. 6-22.

Back on the South Shore, Southern Rep has lined up a top-notch cast (Brenda Currin, Beth Bartley, Jake Wynne-Wilson, Morrey McElroy, Rebecca Rae, David Williams, and Carol Sutton) for Tennessee Williams’ Suddenly Last Summer. Debuting Mar. 4 at the new Ashé Powerhouse Theater (1731 Baronne St., between Euterpe & Polymnia) under Aimée Hayes’ direction, Summer runs until Apr. 5.

Anthony Bean Community Theater (1333 South Carrollton Ave.) presents its first Shakespeare play, Measure for Measure, from Mar. 6 to 22. Frederick Mead directs a racially-diverse cast in this morally ambiguous dramedy with its themes of social justice, abuse of governmental power, and the need for genuine spirituality.

Human Resources inaugurates Generate Ink’s season at Playhouse NOLA (3214 Burgundy St.) Mar. 13-20. In Rudy San Miguel’s comedy, a seemingly innocuous job interview devolves into a life-ordeath struggle when April realizes that Willow is a powder keg with a broken heart and that April has unknowingly lit the fuse.

Mid City Theatre (3540 Toulouse St.) launches its cabaret month with Up, Up and Away - The Songs of Jimmy Webb (Mar. 4 & 5). Heidi Melancon, Hector Ventura, Larry Beron and Terry Rappold will interpret such classics as MacArthur Park and By the Time I Get To Phoenix as well as the title tune.

Chez Shea Cabaret follows (Mar. 6-8) celebrating the 60-year stage career of Janet Shea, from her childhood as granddaughter of Italian immigrants, to schoolgirl at Dominican High, to the stages of New Orleans and beyond. With Jefferson Turner serving as Musical Director and accompanying Shea on piano, and Blake Coheley directing, it’s a powerhouse team.

Certainly no introduction is needed for Diana Ross who’ll be appearing at the Saenger Theatre on Feb. 28. But Dina Martina, who’ll be at One Eyed Jacks (615 Toulouse St.) on Mar. 8, is making her New Orleans debut. Described as a “tragic singer, horrible dancer and surreal raconteur,” she promises “ludicrous song, horrifying dance, overburdened costumes and sidesplitting video.” With shows that are “impossible to describe, other than a combination of jaw-dropping pathos and mindblowing comedy”, it sounds like she’ll be bringing back a bit of Mardi Gras in the middle of Lent. Works for me.

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Mystic Krewe of Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXXIII: That’s Entertainment! ~ Alario Center ~ Photos by Rip Naquin

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Night Life in The Big Easy ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin

Krewe of Narcissus Bal Masque I ~ New Orleans Healing Center ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Hubert S Monkeys

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In The Streets ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Hubert S Monkeys, Rip Naquin

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