Ambush Magazine Volume 34 Issue 01

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the "official" dish

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

Ambush Magazine Makes History with 34th Anniversary; "The Year of the Red Monkey" Wow! It's hard to believe that Ambush Magazine is celebrating its 34th anniversary! In 1982, the publication was launched in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

It fast became the leader of LGBT+ entertainment throughout the State. Moving to New Orleans in 1985, Ambush set up shop on World famous Bourbon Street, and expanded to cover the huge Gulf South market from Texas to Florida.

Ambush is proud of its history as the oldest surviving LGBT+ publication in New Orleans and the entire Gulf South. A special thanks to all of its advertisers, past and present, and to all of its readers who have made Ambush what it is today.

Not only is 2016 Ambush's anniversary, it's also the 4,713th Chinese Year, "The Year of the Monkey," which symbolizes witty, intelligent, and magnetic personality behavior. Chinese Astrology uses one’s birthday and birth time to predict their fortune. The astrological birth chart is built by the Chinese Astrology Calendar, which is a combination counting system of Yin-Yang Five Elements and 12 animals. The Five Elements are Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth. The twelve animals are Rat, Cow, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Chicken, Dog and Pig. Because Fire is connected to the color of Red, 2016 is the Year of the Red Fire Monkey. Some people say it's a "Red Monkey" or "Fire Monkey" year. Or perhaps a "Hubert S Monkeys" year. Ambush was founded in 1982, The Year of the Dog, which symbolizes valiant, loyal, responsible, clever, courageous, and lively attributes.

33rd Mardi Gras Classic Volleyball Tournament Jan. 15-17 in New Orleans Volleyball New Orleans kicks off the new year with the 33rd Annuial Mardi Gras Classic Volleyball Tournament Jan. 15-17. As part of the North American Gay Volleyball Association, the tournament will bring some 56 teams from all over the country, Canada, and Puerto Rico with some 500 to 1000 in attendance.

Volleyball Play which is free and open to the public is scheduled at the Alario Center on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 16 and 17 from 7am - 7pm, Tulane Reily Center on Saturday, Jan. 16 from 9am - 5pm, and UNO Health & Performance Building on Sunday, Jan. 17 from 7:30am - 8pm.

Events include Registration at Oz, 800 Bourbon Street on Friday Jan. 15 from 7pm - 9:30pm, and the Seeding Party from 10pm until with a site to be announced.

Official After Party is Satrurday, Jan. 16 at Oz. The Closing Party/Awards Ceremony will also be held at Oz on Sunday, Jan. 17 from 9:30pm until midnight.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/volleyballneworleans.

Southern Decadence Charities Receive $39,347.49 Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Steven Mora, Rip Naquin, Marsha Delain, Misti Ates and Frank Wingerter presented a whopping $39,347.49 to 2015 charities LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, Louisiana Equality Foundation, and PFLAG New Orleans. The event was hosted at the Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern presenting each charity with $13,115.83 on Saturday, Dec. 26. This was the largest charity contribution in the history of

Pre-Mardi Gras issue out Jan. 19 DEADLINE: Tues., Jan. 12

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AD INFO: Call 504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com

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

Southern Decadence.

The non-profit New Orleans Southern Decadence Inc. was formed in 2013 at the request of SDGMs XXXIX Tami Tarmac and Venus Santiago to ensure all funds raised going forward would be handled in a professional and credible manner. In the last three years, under the direction of Board of Directors James Garner, and Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, a total of $68,880.45 has been raised for the grand marshals’ chosen charity or charities each year.

The 2015 grand marshals would like to thank everyone who made this quest a reality shining a light on the largest LGBT+ event in the South. And especially to all of the sponsors including: Presenting - Ambush Mag, SouthernDecadence.com Official Website, The Golden Lantern, The Chicory, SKYY Vodka, Broussard's Restaurant & Courtyard, OffBeat Magazine, Oz New Orleans; Platinum - Bud Light, Bourbon Pride, Four Seasons & Patio Stage Bar, Gay Appreciation Awards, Tropical Isle: Home of the Hand Grenade, Jeffrey Palmquist & Coca Mesa, Bourbon Pub & Parade, Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain; Gold - Todd Blauvelt, Sir Speedy New Orleans, Pelican Bay, GrandPre's, Amzie Adams, Steve Tregre, La Familia, Little Vic's, Hotel Storyville, 3rd Base Bar & Grill, Double Play, Curtis Knapp Photography; Silver - Larry Graham/Graham Studio One, Law Offices of Warren A. Forstall, Jr., Eugene Theriot & Dwain Hertz/Gene's Po-Boys, NOLA Fleur de Lis, Krewe of Petronius, Phoenix, Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Tulane Ave Bar, QT Pie; Bronze - Larry Anderson & Michael Boulas, Safonda Peters & Stuart Nettles, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, A-MED Ambulance, Glinda's Jewelry

by Design, Cutter's, Quartermaster Deli, Marshall Harris, Kajun's Pub, Helene Berot, Buffa's Bar & Restaurant, Mariners Inn, Cafe Fleur De Lis; Pearl - Wicked Orleans, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, Cary P. Oswald, SDGM 27 Errol C. Rizzuto, Mac McAll/Cutter's Bar, Jon & Derek Penton-Robicheaux, June Pennick, Glenn Paul Melancon, Gary Glitter, Fabulous Flowers, Michael Bingham, Donald Ellis, Treme' Coffeehouse, Jamie Hayes Gallery, GrrlSpot, Vinsantos, Michael Sullivan, Persana Shoulders, Stephen Alderdice, Wedon Brown, Larry Bagneris, Jr., www.ChristopherRyan.com, Jerry Scavo & Kenny Walker, Gene & Karen Riggleman.

The 44th Annual Southern Decadence celebration of LGBT+ Life, Music and Culture broke all records bringing in over 180,000 participants Labor Day weekend in 2015. With an economic impact of a whopping $216 million, this is one for the history books.

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THE OFFICIAL MAG

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© AWARD WINNING:

Saints & Sinners Literary Festival Hall of Fame/2015, 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 Tony Leggio, Hubert S Monkeys, Felicia Phillips, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry-New Orleans MIss Cie, Leon Weekley-Mobile, 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. ©1982-2016 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

The end of summer circuit weekend is the 5th largest in the city following Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Fest, and French Quarter Fest.

Totals from this 44th Annual Southern Decadence celebration have been added to the records kept by www.SouthernDecadence.com, the official website. Since 1996, the celebration has had a 1 billion, 705 million dollar economic impact on the New Orleans economy, with estimated crowds now totaling over 1 million, 757 thousand.

The 45th anniversary of Southern Decadence is Aug. 31-Sept. 5, 2016. (www.SouthernDecadence.com)

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celebrazzi T h e Ye a r o f t h e R ed Monkey Re

Mike Moreau (aka Opal Masters) and Darwin Reed were the first state sanctioned same-sex couple to be married in the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana at St. Anna's Episcopal Church on beautiful Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans.

Founded in 1846 as St. Peter's, the church became St. Anna's in 1869. The couple who celebrated their 40th anniversary on July 4, 2015, were wed by The Very Rev. Bill Terry on December 12, 2015. In lieu of gifts the couple asked that donations be made to St. Anna's Episcopal Church or the Gay Easter Parade which raised $1,130. The large wedding party included ten attendants and two ushers including usher John Zeringue, bridesmen Leonard Williams (aka Deja Deja-Vue') and Rodd Gray (aka Patti Le Plae Safe), bridesmaid's Michelle Boyer and Sally Graff, matron of honor Marsha Delain, bride Mike Moreau, groom Darwin Reed, best man Rip Naquin, and groomsmen Brad Graff, Dwayne Jones, Tommy Davis (aka Nicole DuBois), and James May, and usher Robert Cook. The reception followed at the Ambush Mansion serving three-tier Red Velvet Wedding Cake, Smoked Pheasant & Duck Gumbo, BBQ Shrimp & Andouille with Dr. George’s Cream Cheese Butta Grits, Crawfish Maison with Baby Shell Pasta, Cream Cheese Pyramid with Homemade Pepper Jelly, Brie with Blueberries, Artichoke Balls, Finger Sandwiches, plus Havarti with Dill, Colby Jack, Double Smoked Cheddar, and Pepper Jack Cheese. (www.StAnnaNOLA.org) (Photo by NOLA Party Pix: Kenny Martinez & Jeff Strout) Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLI Rip Naquin, Steven Mora, Marsha Delain, Misti Ates and Frankie "Fierce" Wingereter presented $39,347.49 to their 2015 Southern Decadence charities with $13,115.83 accepted by LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana's Mark Gonzalez and Frank Perez (left), $13,115.83 accepted by Louisiana Equality Foundation's Derek and Jon Penton-Robicheaux (lower left), and $13,115.83 accepted by PFLAG New Orleans' Dr. Joe Melcher (below). Held at the Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern on Dec. 26, this was the largest charity donation ever made in the 44 year history of Southern Decadence. For more information, visit www.SouthernDecadence.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

12th Night and The Mystik Krewe du Rue Royale Revelers In the Roman Catholic calendar, January 6 is recognized as the Feast of the Epiphany—the day the three Magi visited the baby Jesus, thus representing Jesus’ revelation to the Gentiles. Because the Magi were thought to be kings (although the Biblical nativity stories never suggest this), the Feast of the Epiphany is sometimes called King’s Day. 12th Night, despite all the Christian symbolism associated with it, like most major holidays (including Christmas and Easter), has its origins pre-Christian, pagan cultures. Its roots can be traced back to the ancient Roman festival known as Saturnalia (which was an adaptation of the earlier Greek festival, Kronia). A common theme in both the Kronia and the Saturnalia was a reversal of the social order. Slaves, servants and peasants were honored by their masters and overlords, who served them at lavish banquets. Presiding over the festivities was the Lord of Misrule. Drunkeness, gluttony, and sexual abandon were the hallmarks of these parties.

In Britain, 12th Night celebrations date back to the Celtic festival of Samhain, what we now call Halloween. Most of the 12th Night celebrations were private parties in homes and estates. At these parties, a cake would be served that contained a bean and a pea. Whoever received the slices containing the bean and the pea would reign for the night as King and Queen. According to tradition, king cakes should not be served until 12th Night and never after Mardi Gras.

12th Night celebrations are also a modern incarnation of the Feast of Fools, a popular festival during the Middle Ages, particularly in France, in which a mock bishop or pope was elected, ecclesiastical ritual was parodied, and low and high officials changed places.

In New Orleans, 12th Night marks the beginning of the Carnival Season, which culminates on Mardi Gras. Perhaps the best known 12th Night event in New

Orleans is the streetcar ride of the Phunny Phorty Phellows. Although the PPP’s streetcar ride only dates back to 1982, their tradition dates back to 1878, when they used to follow Rex. Also on January 6 is the annual Joan of Arc parade, but this is only because Joan of Arc’s birthday is January 6.

In 1870, the Twelfth Night Revelers, New Orleans second official Carnival Krewe, debuted with a nine float parade on January 6, followed by a ball at the French Opera House. As the King Cake was brought in, the Lord of Misrule announced that the cake would only be served to ladies and that whoever received the slice of cake with a bean would be named Queen. Prior to this, there had never been a “Queen” associated with Carnival. At that first ball, the court jesters who were to serve the cake were so drunk they sloppily dropped slices of cake in the ladies laps, or threw slices of cake at them, much to the horror and amusement of those in attendance. The slice with the bean was not found but the following year the jesters were better behaved and Emma Butler was crowned as Queen.

Today 12th Night celebrations are common throughout New Orleans. Many people host King Cake Parties or other celebrations to herald the arrival of the Carnival Season. I began hosting my 12th Night party in 2014.

I had moved into a new apartment the previous year and one of the reasons I leased it was because it was perfect for entertaining (spacious, wrap around balcony on the corner of St. Ann and Royal). My previous apartment in the FQ was too small to properly entertain. The party was a huge success. Open bar, live music (an opera singer), go-go boys serving hors d’oeuvres, and great food.

Roughly 150 attended the first party.

For the 2015 party, I decided to add an element—the coronation of the Grand Reveler. I chose Jeffrey Palmquist, long-time bartender at Cafe Lafitte in Exile and a very good friend to be the first Grand Reveler. He in turn chose two lieutenants—Will Antill and Tim Kinzel. During the party, I got everyone’s attention and issued the following proclamation: WHEREAS THIS NIGHT MARKS THE BEGINNING OF THE CARNIVAL SEASON, AND WHEREAS THE REST OF COUNTRY (WHICH, I UNDERSTAND, EXISTS SOMEWHERE ACROSS THE LAKE) IS SETTLING DOWN TO WORK AFTER THE HOLIDAY SEASON, AND WHEREAS NEW ORLEANS IS JUST GEARING UP FOR MARDI GRAS, AND WHEREAS MARDI GRAS IS THE MOST AWESOME DAY IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD, AND WHEREAS THIS 12TH NIGHT PARTY HAS BECOME AN ANNUAL EVENT, I, THEREFORE, AS GRAND POTENTATE OF THESE FESTIVE PROCEEDINGS, DO HEREBY DECLARE THE CREATION OF A NEW CARNIVAL CUSTOM: BE IT RESOLVED AND LET IT BE KNOWN THAT I HAVE FORMED THE MYSTIK KREWE DU RUE ROYALE REVELERS, AND FURTHERMORE, LET IT BE KNOWN THAT ALL IN ATTENDANCE HERE TONIGHT ARE HEREBY REVELERS OF THE MYSTIK KREWE, AND LET IT BE KNOWN THAT EACH YEAR ON THIS NIGHT AT THIS JOYOUS CELEBRATION, I WILL DECLARE, NAME AND CROWN A GRAND REVELER TO REIGN OVER NOT ONLY THIS CELEBRATION BUT ALSO THE CARNIVAL SEASON. AND SO TONIGHT, REVELERS AND ASSORTED DRUNKS, PLEASE MAKE WAY FOR THE ROYAL FLAG BEARER AND LIEUTENANTS AS THEY PRECEDE HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, GRAND REVELER I, JEFF PALMQUIST. JEFFREY, FOR YOUR LONG-TERM SERVICE IN ENABLING OUR ALCOHOLIC IMPULSES, FOR BEING DECLARED A BOTTOM BY THE TIMES-PICAYUNE, FOR SPENDING $1,800 ON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, FOR NOT KILLING COCA FOR SPENDING $1800 ON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, FOR SURVIVING QUADRUPLE OPEN BYPASS HEART SURGERY, FOR YOUR UNFORGETTABLE DRAG PERFORMANCE AT OZ, AND FOR BEING A DAMN GOOD BARTENDER AND ALL AROUND GREAT GUY, I HEREBY CROWN YOU AS HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, GRAND REVELER I After a few remarks by the Grand Reveler, I informed him: YOUR MAJESTY, KING CAKE QUEEN XXI, BARBARA ELLA, AND HER ROYAL COURT OF THE KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS HAVE PETITIONED ENTRY TO PAY THEIR RESPECTS TO YOU. DO YOU GRANT ENTRANCE? The Grand Reveler said yes, after which I said, BID THE BORGHESE QUEEN ENTRY At this point, Barbara Ella, the reigning King Cake Queen at the time arrived along with her successor, Aubrey Synclaire. A toast was made and thus began the tradition of the Meeting of the Courts of the Mystik Krewe du Rue Royale Revelers and the Krewe of Queenateenas.

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a community within communities

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

A Sad Story A sad story from time to time reminds us that our lives are touched by so many experiences. I listen to the stories about the AIDS holocaust, how young men and perhaps women were exposed to all manner of “treatments” including lobotomies: the horror of the “golden age of America,” “the good old days.” So, sometimes a story needs telling. This one is, for me, very personal and very sad.

I first arrived at St. Anna’s in 2003 as an enthusiastic newbie priest. I was bound and determined to save the world.

I still am for that matter but the world, my world, has shrunk- it’s below Canal Street and that’s about it. When I took over I inherited two wonderful volunteers. Ms. Louise Bush was ever vigilant, the bookkeeper, records keeper, tradition keeper, and keeper of the keys. Ms. Bush had a drawl that wouldn’t stop and she was only about 4’11"…maybe. She graciously blessed me with a key to the church after I had served there for about six months. I guess she decided that I was OK or that she couldn’t get rid of me.

With Louise was a young man about 36 who characterized himself as a metro-sexual. We shall call him Edgar.

Now Edgar lived in the Bywater not far from my old home there. He rode his bicycle daily to St. Anna’s and was my “Parish Administrator.” The fact was that in those days such a job meant answering the one or two calls that we got, listening to me rant on occasion, and printing the bulletin. The bulletin was then folded by an equally interesting person aged about 70, who had Hodgkin’s disease, and lived a life often terrified of “bad things.” Although I did catch her dancing to some rock n’roll during a yard sale and that was marvelous to see. Kay reminded me of a little iddy biddy gypsy woman; she even had a wandering eye. Actually, she was sweet as can be. That was “the staff.”

Edgar was actually quite impressive in some ways. He generally was a day or two behind in bathing. His clothing was low end and serviceable. His teeth needed work but otherwise he was a good looking young man about 6’2" in height. He’d laugh when he told stories of his childhood in Seattle in a cabin near a lake. He fancied himself a literary type. Edgar had graduated from Stanford University with honors. He had also done a summer study program at Oxford. I think he even was about to receive a Masters Degree in English Literature when one day all of a sudden he found himself in a jail naked.

He had no memory of taking off his clothing walking into a record store and trashing it until the police arrived. As it turned out and after much investigation he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder. I have come to learn that such is a deadly combination.

It was amazing that he was so functional. He took his meds, understood the need to take them, and he would write. Man o man would he write. He would present me with essays, poetry, and pros and I would say he was prolific. Some of his poetry was grand and quite well done. My favorite poem was about a giant bass that lurked in the lake near his cabin. He and the bass became friends having made their acquaintance while sunning on an old log that was askew in the lake and accessible by land. It seemed that he and the old fish had something in common.

Running from the world and wanting only to enjoy their environment. The poem was childlike and lovely. That was Edgar, childlike, sweet, and thoughtful and a good listener.

Edgar and our family along with Kay and an old guy named John all evacuated to Abita Springs during hurricane Katrina. We were blessed to have a home there. We spent the storm with 3 very eccentric parishioners, our daughter, her husband, and a heavy metal band of five ….and one raccoon, and three dogs. As one can imagine it was something. After working all day in the heat repairing, reaching out to parishioners who had fled, insuring that they were alive and well, and finally trying to get into the city to bring relief we’d sit. We’d sit on this grand front porch. Edgar would listen to my wife by the hour. She would pour her heart out to Edgar. He’d laugh or cry as was appropriate. I suppose Edgar was in some ways an emotional empath. We owe Edgar a lot because in those insane days he helped to keep us sane.

Edgar, o Edgar what a fine friend you were: Thank you.

One of the issues with Katrina is that she disrupted access to quality medicine and medications. The bitch shut down virtually all psychiatric care or even possibilities of such care. Along with Katrina and Jindal we have not much improved in public access to quality mental health care. If you have it cherish it and use it! As one might predict Edgar began to run low on his meds.

Eventually I took Edgar to a public access doctor in Mandeville that changed Edgar’s prescriptions. Edgar

would complain of sleeplessness. So his meds were changed. In time we slowly moved back into the city. The neutral grounds were still dumping grounds for “white goods” and all manner of sodden debris especially sheet rock and insulation. Trucks would haul it away and the piles would return. Do you remember the giant bulldozers that would rest in the evenings dressed all about with salvaged teddy bears and other stuffed toys that gave comfort? I do and it was grand. And Edgar found a roommate and seemed to be thriving in his “metro-sexual” world. One day, however, his roommate came home from a trip and was greeted with a literal wreck in his home. Edgar had started to drink.

Now girls, I know drinking is a thing that so many do and do well. It can often be a haven and I do believe that Princesse Stephaney has recipes for about 200 fruit flavored delights. BUT, drinking does not work well with psychoactive drugs. That is especially true of many of the therapies for schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder. So, the new drugs that Edgar took only worked marginally and when mixed with cocktails it created a new Edgar.

The new Edgar was unpredictable, he was paranoid, he was prone to fits of violence or rage. Edgar, o Edgar.

Some folks from church own an apartment building in the Quarter and they offered Edgar a place to stay, Edgar having been ushered out of his previous relationship and living situation. In time his inflamed and quixotic nature caused even these kind souls to ask Edgar to leave. He was just too violent on those rare occasions and it was heart breaking: where was our beloved Edgar?

Edgar is still writing or at least he is in his special world. Edgar’s world, from what I can see, is desperate because he now lives on the streets and sleeps in gutted out and blighted houses that still dot our cityscape. Edgar is a denizen of the Quarter. He darts here and there and rarely slows down.

Edgar is either filthy or dressed better than I have ever seen him – though he still smells funny. I have seen Edgar several times and he promises me that he will come to church and he wants to again serve at the altar and he is now published and he is raking in monies form royalties and he wants to support the church and he explains his politics and the details of his writing craft and that he is designing a new web system and that he is living well in a grand home and and and ….in his world. His staccato conversation is harried and rushedit is always urgent! And so, Edgar creates his own world and place in it.

I pray that somewhere at sometime Edgar finds himself sitting on a blighted porch in the moon light. Perhaps a traveler will be with him complaining and telling stories and Edgar will listen and laugh and cry when it is appropriate. I pray that somewhere in him is that same man. I pray that

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someday and somehow by some intervention he will find himself on the drug therapy that made him well and more than functional …he was a gift. If any of you that are reading this carry the same weight that Edgar carried, please, put the cocktail down, offer thanks for good drug therapies. Stay sober, stay well, stay connected, and be more than functional…you can because you are a beloved one of God. I miss Edgar and I wish him well and I feel so inadequate that I cannot reach him nor help him…but maybe God will allow me to help the next person.

A sad story: The End.

book review Lust, Men and Meth: A Gay Man’s Guide to Sex and Recovery David Fawcett. Healing Path Press.

ISBN: 978-0-9962578-0-0. 210 pages. $19.95.

by Frank Perez Lust, Men and Meth is a self-help book that delves into the dark world of methamphetamine addiction and the often unsafe sexual practices that accompany heavy meth use. Drawing upon dozens of case studies, Fawcett provides a roadmap to recovery from the physical and emotional impact of meth.

The book is the product of 13 years of work by Dr. Fawcett as an addiction specialist and sex therapist. The book untangles the dysfunctional web of meth and sex by asking readers to address the self-esteem issues and sexual intimacy challenges that lie at the heart of most addictive behavior among gay men.

The book is divided into three parts: “The Perfect Storm” assesses personality traits and gay cultural norms that invite the opportunity for meth addiction. “Exploring the Sexual Universe” explores how meth can rewire a gay man’s approach to sexuality. “Restoring Your Life” provides seven essential tools for recovery and healthy intimacy.

David M. Fawcett, PhD, is a psychotherapist and writer with a practice in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His work in Gay men’s health, addictions and recovery spans three decades. He has established numerous programs in Florida and beyond, to help gay men in crisis, ranging from emotional matters to HIV and drug-related issues.

Fawcett’s writing about substance abuse, mental health and HIV appears regularly in TheBody.com and other journals, and he is a highly sought-after speaker and trainer, presenting workshops in the United States and internationally.

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SDGMs XLI present $39,347.49 to 2015 Southern Decadence Charities @ The Golden Lantern ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Darwin Reed

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1st Cheesy Sally-FLY NYE Bash Rings in New Year @ 6pmfor the Vintage Girls & Boys @ GrandPre's ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Darwin Reed

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The Wedding of Mike Moreau & Darwin Reed @ St. Anna's Episcopal Church ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by NOLA Party Pix: Kenny Martinez & Jeff Strout

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Mike Moreau & Darwin Reed Wedding Reception @ Ambush Mansion ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by NOLA Party Pix: Kenny Martinez & Jeff Strout

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Photos by NOLA Party Pix: Kenny Martinez & Jeff Strout

Mike Moreau & Darwin Reed Wedding Reception Champagne Toast & Cake Ceremony @ Ambush Mansion ~ New Orleans

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under the gaydar

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

Hot Happenings Happy New Year, 2016 is here. With Mardi Gras so early this year (February 9) that means one thing, bring on the King Cake, Parade and Carnival Balls, here we go! Here are just some of the hot happenings to start your year and Mardi Gras season off right.

Wednesday, January 6, 2016 The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents their 12th Night Ball featuring the New Leviathan Oriental Fox-Trot Orchestra Cafe Istanbul (2372 St. Claude Avenue) from 7 – 10pm. Kick off the Carnival season with this very special 12th Night spectacular. You’ll be introduced to King and Queen Satyricon XIV, and dance the night away to a performance by the New Leviathan Oriental Fox-Trot Orchestra. They will also have a king cake and crudités, a stellar silent auction, the official announcement of Satyricon’s bal masque theme, and the crowning of the King and Queen of 12th Night (chosen by a drawing from among the attendees)! Black tie or costume preferred. Tickets are $20. There will be a cash bar.

Friday, January 8, 2016 This is not your last dance. Join the disco fun for an unforgettable night of soul, dance, and musicianship.

Last Dance: A Tribute to Donna Summer featuring Anais St. John is unlike any other tribute show you’ve seen before. This high energy dance show will take you back to the days when Disco reigned supreme and Donna Summer was the Queen. The event takes place at the Joy Theatre (1200 Canal Street) starting at 8pm. Special guest DJ Soul Sister will start the night off with an equally noteworthy vinyl set starting at 8pm. This night is all about honoring the late, great Ms. Summers, so make sure to come dressed to impress in your best disco, Anais St. John as groovy attire. Tickets are Donna Summer available at http://bit.ly/ in Last Dance DONNASUMMER.

Saturday, January 9, 2016 New Orleans Pride presents their 6th Annual Masquerade: The Black & White Ball on from 7 -11pm at Canal Place Mall’s 3rd Floor (333 Canal Street). There will be food, cash bar, live entertainment and huge silent auction. The event will be hosted

by IML 37 Patrick Smith. Dress code: black tie and masks requested. You must be 18yrs or older to attend. Tickets are $25 in advance or $35 at the door. VIP Tables of 8 are $210.

Tickets will be available at: www.NewOrleansPrideFestival.com.

Sunday, January 10, 2016 The Big Easy Sisters Are Gonna Throw You Something Mister at Sister Gras 2016! Please join The Big Easy Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence for this annual Mardi Gras time fundraiser at GrandPre’s (834 North Rampart St.) from 4 – 8pm. Tickets are $5 for all you can drink beer. There will be entertainment, raffle, prizes, auction and course King Cake galore. Also you can be a part of the Sisters First Ever Sister Gras Parade led by New Orleans’ only Female Bone Gang Skinz N Bonez!

The line-up starts at the corner of St. Ann/Bourbon at 2:30pm and steps off at 3pm. All proceeds from this fundraising event go to The Big Easy Sister Sisters Grant Fund to benefit local New Orleans charities. For details, their mission, or how to join The Big Easy Sisters, visit us at https://www.facebook.com/ TheBigEasySisters.

Friday, January 15, 2016 Are you ready to party with the 610 Stompers this year for their annual Sweet 610 Debutante Ball...London Calling! This awesome event will be held at Mardi Gras World (1380 Port of New Orleans Place) from 8pm to midnight. Tickets are $40-$60 General Admission and $125-$150 (Patron Party). Buy early the tickets will be capped this year.

Guests are asked to wear their best punk rock or eighties attire. Enter the costume contest and you could be named king or queen of the ball. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend.

For tickets or more information, go to www.610stompers.com.

Saturday, January 16, 2016 Join the Voodoo Lounge (718 N. Rampart St.) for the first installment of ANDROG: A Genderless Dance Party. Calling all Gay, Straight, Bi, Trans, Cis, Drag Queens, Drag Kings, Faux Queens, Androgynous, Third Gender, and Questioning, come

Saturday, January 9, 2016 Do not miss this month’s commUNITY® Speak Out - Health Insurance Coverage and the LGBTQ+ community. Come join them as Out 2 Enroll answers all your questions about how to enroll for health insurance coverage for the 2016 year. The seminar takes place at 3pm at the New Orleans Healing Center, second floor classroom 250. After the Q&A session you will be able to set up an appointment at your convenience to sit down with and have an enrollment specialist help you through the process of enrollment. Know of any one that is in need of health insurance coverage? Bring them along. If you plan to attend, please RSVP at the ticket link provided as space is limited. https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/community-speak-outhealthcare-coverage-and-the-lgbtq-community-tickets19969574535.

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dance the night away with music by DJ FIVE and performances by Nicole Lynn Foxx with special guests! Also there will be a “Hot Body/Hard Body” contest at midnight! Both girls and guys can participate and all prizes sponsored by The Sex Sensei! Doors open at 10pm with a $5 cover.

Friday, January 22, 2016 The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon’s presents its 14th Bal Masque entitled Le Bal des Beaux Arts: A Night at the Museum at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center (8245 West Judge Perez Drive) in Chalmette. Doors open at 7pm, tableaux starts at 8pm. Dancing will follow. Formal attire/costumes and masking desired. Tables and single tickets are available, go to mystickreweofsatyricon.com.

Friday, January 22, 2016 Get your Mardi Gras on in Baton Rouge with the Krewe of Apollo’s Bal Masque XXV entitled “It All Began With This.” Celebrating 35 years, this amazing gay Carnival krewe holds its ball at the Baton Rouge River Center Arena (275 S. River Road). Doors open at 6:30pm with the tableau starting at 8:00pm. Tickets/tables available at www.apollobatonrouge.com.

Saturday, January 23, 2016 Forget sharks, its bearracudas in the Mississippi you have to worry about.

Bearracuda welcomes hundreds of furry guys to dance the night away in the middle of the French Quarter at the Carnival Dance Party at One Eyed Jacks (615 Toulouse Street). After the Krewe du Vieux and Krewe Delusion parades, come down and enjoy a night of hot men! Doors open at 9pm. Tickets are $8 in advance and are available at http://bearracuda.com/new-orleans/ . Bearracuda is the largest attended bear dance party and most prolific gay [continued on 20]

Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • J an. 5-18, 2016 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 19

trodding the boards

by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

Broadway in New Orleans/Newsies at The Saenger Theatre through June 19 Something unusual happened at the Saenger Theatre in December. There were no fairy princesses, make-believe worlds (over or under the sea), or wicked stepmothers onstage—despite a show that came to us from Disney!

Rather, Newsies, based on the 1992 Disney film, told the story of New York City’s newsboy strike of 1899. An interesting tale? Yes indeed with Joseph Pulitzer as the villain and Teddy Roosevelt, then still Governor of New York, as one of the heroes.

under the gaydar ...from 18 dance event in the U.S.

Party Down I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season this year. Mine was a flurry of parties, presents, cocktails and finally, relaxation. My two weeks of events leading up to Christmas Eve began on Tuesday with two holiday parties. The first was GrandPre’s holiday soiree with food, lots of locals and stiff drinks. The party was filled with locals coming together for the season.

GrandPre’s is one of my favorite neighborhood bars that exude a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ken GrandPre pulled out all the tops to make everyone feel welcome. Next I went to the 700 Club’s holiday party entitled Real Housewives of the 700 Club: Angels of the Eighties. The event benefitted Cases New Orleans and was the bar’s annual turnabout where their employees dressed in drag for your entertainment pleasure. It was a hysterical nod to one of the best decades with fun music, tasty food (still one of the best restaurants for bar food) and a cool raffle.

Not to mention the angels of the eighties were totally awesome man.

The following night was a three party sort of evening. I started in MidCity at the home of the Reinekes who own Riverview Photography for a little holiday cheer. Their gorgeous house was decorated exquisitely. Established in 1989, Riverview Photography is New Orleans’ premier convention and special event photography company. I have used them many times and they are excellent, professional and definitely know how to host a shindig.

Next up I trotted to the Quarter for the Bourbon Heat holiday party. The venue put on a festive event for their employees and the hospitality community. There was live music featuring a guitarist playing easy rock favorites with food and open bar. It was a lovely night to enjoy the balcony and watch the world go by on Bourbon Street. I followed up the night with the Oz Christmas Extravaganza which is always a great time with lots of food, catching up

with good friends and their holiday show.

Everyone in attendance also donate a toy for underprivileged children as well.

The party was spectacular and the show was the crowning touch of the night. Congrats to the cast and Persana for bringing down the house with a memorable holiday show.

On Thursday I attended one of my favorite events of the holiday season this year, Tales of the Toddy at the Hyatt. This event is presented by Tales of the Cocktail and had two member bartending teams making specialty cocktails as restaurants around the city provided food. Guests were greeted by sexy elves on a shelf male and female models. Each of the bartending teams also dressed in costumes; there was Star Wars, S & M Reindeer, Day of the Dead, just to name a few. We drank our way through the night as we were entertained by Virtuosa, a girl classical music group that plays updated songs.

This sold out event was the perfect way to celebrate the holidays especially in New Orleans, the home of the cocktail.

Friday it was another gay establishment’s holiday gathering at the Double Play. I love a party hosted by Chuck and Bill, there is always good cheer and lots of food. Saturday was a house party and an unusually fabulous drag show. The night started at Frank Pizzolato’s elegant soiree at his home in the Marigny. Everything was perfectly done from the décor to the good china on the table. It was a nice evening to enjoy cocktails in his courtyard or sit in his blue man cave and converse with old and new friends.

Frank always has an interesting mix of guests from politicians to bartenders and everyone in between. I adore his parties and he is the ultimate host making sure everybody had enough to eat and a full glass. I followed up the event with a trip to Tulane Avenue Bar for Kitty D Litter’s holiday drag show at Tulane Avenue Bar. If you have never seen the talents of Miss Kitty D’Litter, make it out to one of her shows. She is true performer and this evening her special guest was Puddin Tain who is channeling Divine from the grave. Her number where she rolled around on the

Yet even with its historically-based urgent drama, I waited to be gripped by the narrative involving hard-earned allegiances among the delivery boys of different boroughs, an obscure printing press, and a young lady who is not what she appears to be. Emotional payoff did arrive, very satisfyingly, at the end, but in Harvey Fierstein’s surprisingly wan script, it was a long time coming.

Things were not helped by Alan (Little Mermaid) Menken and Jack Feldman’s score; nearly all its songs sounded generic and even their titles (Seize the Day, Something to Believe In, etc.) seemed to recall other tunes.

As the heroine Katherine tried to establish herself as a newspaperwoman, Morgan Keene pertly delivered the one exception, a witty, well-written Watch What Happens.

Ironically, for a show about, among other things, the power of the printed word, the only time Newsies really took off was when Christopher Gattelli’s imaginative Tony-winning choreography got the newsboys dancing in spectacular fashion, a combination of acrobatics and ballet, that captured a brazen youthfulness a la the great numbers of Oklahoma or West Side Story.

Kudos to each and every one of this high-flying crew!

Otherwise, under Jeff Calhoun’s workmanlike direction, the indefatigable

Joey Barreiro was good as Jack Kelly, the leader of the strike, without making a tremendously lasting impression; Aisha de Haas had a nice turn as the owner of a burlesque theater, a supporter of the boys; and Ethan Steiner, as the littlest of the newsies, appealingly stood out in the crowd despite his small size. Tobin Ost’s ingenious industrial behemoth of a set metamorphosed from dank cellar to starry rooftop in an instant.

Come to think of it, with its happilyever-after ending, Newsies was a bit of a fairy tale after all.

The next two shows at the Saenger feature magical tales of their own.

Motown The Musical tells the true “American Dream” story of Motown founder Berry Gordy as he journeyed from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music impresario who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. (Jan. 19-24) The glittery Kinky Boots arrives here just after Mardi Gras for a February 16-21 run. For those who don’t know, it depicts how a spunky drag queen saves a down-on-its-luck shoe factory. I had reservations about this Cyndi Lauper/Harvey Fierstein (again) creation when I saw it on Broadway.

But it’s a new year and I’m hoping I’ll

floor ejaculating from a hidden hose in her outfit was inspiring (gross but inspiring). It is always refreshing to see new approaches to drag.

On Sunday, my friends and I spent the day enjoying holiday traditions; first we went to Cassel Gallery and Margarita Bergen’s Feliz Navidad party. No one does a party like the queen of the social scene Margarita Dahling! With her little Chiquita (her Chihuahua) at her side she had music from Julio and Cesar as well as traditional Spanish dishes and tequila shots and egg nog (a perfect combination in my book). Next we were off to caroling in the Square. This time honored tradition was backed with holiday revelers as we crooned many holiday classics under the stars in this historic spot. This is the ultimate holiday experience in New Orleans in my opinion. We ended our night a little naughty at the Corner Pocket Christmas Party. There is something to be said about partying with half naked elves that just screams a good time. All kidding aside, the party was nice and the food was delicious and once again, they provided guests with a very special Christmas show atop the bar.

Watching Lisa Beaumann strut her stuff at the Corner Pocket performing a Julie Garland Christmas song is another great New Orleans tradition, just slightly different.

The following day was Christmas party at Acme Oyster House. Dining on raw and chargrilled oysters among

many other of the noteworthy restaurants seafood delicacies was quite the treat. We had our event in their private room upstairs which is a great place to host a party and even though people may say it is a touristy place, locals love it too. And it was the perfect party spot. After eating the employees played the White Elephant gift exchange which is always super fun and for once I ended up with a very cool prize, holiday ornament martinis. We then moved to the after party at the Bombay Club for some martinis and music. This was the ideal wind down as we enjoyed live music and sipped their famous martinis.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were time with family and friends.

Christmas Eve Day I spent helping my mom get ready to have the family over to her house the following day. Preparing the turkey, pork roast, shrimp and Andouille cornbread dressing and bread pudding was fun especially with Mom who came from the Julia Child school of cooking, drink and cook, with the emphasis on the drinking part. Apple does not fall far from the tree. That early evening I attended the 4pm service at St. Francis Seelos Church in the Bywater. This historic church is about to celebrate their 150th anniversary. I enjoy this Mass tremendously, the church is expertly decorated for the season and their organ is an instrument truly from the angels. After Mass, I had

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Sout hernDec adenc e.c om • J an. 5-18, 2016 • Facebook.com/ AmbushMag • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • 21

when gay men were at the disco in LAST CALL: New Orleans Dyke Bar History Project (The Theater at St. feel a whole new way about it in 2016. Claude, 2240 St. Claude, Jan. 14-16).

This work in progress from Alleged Lesbian Activities is a denim-clad, Curtain Up glitter-crusted, power-ballad perforon the New Season mance of oral histories from our lesbian If you can’t wait till February to see community focusing on the 1960s-80s. a larger-than-life, multi-talented, glam- Be among the first to experience Last orous drag queen, head to Café Call prior to its full length production premiere in the Fall.

I’m not sure if it’ll be glitter-crusted, but there’s sure to be cross-dressing at Le Petit Théâtre (616 St. Peter St.) for Sleeping Beauty, a re-imagining by Jon Greene (director of last year’s Faustus) and Maxwell Williams of the timeless fairy tale in the style of a British holiday pantomime. Hmm, sounds like this could be a Ricky Graham, Sean Patterson and Varla Jean suburb of Ditzyland. (Jan. 15-Feb. 14) Merman in Ditzyland Also at Le Petit on Istanbul (2372 St. Claude Ave.) where Jan. 17, will be the latest iteration of Varla Jean Merman is all that...and so New Orleans’ only show that is both much more. With her pals Ricky Gra[continued on 26] ham, Sean Patterson, and Jefferson Turner tinkering on the piano, through Jan. 16, Merman will take you on a visit to Ditzyland where “Everyone is Goofy.” I’m not sure which ride I’m looking forward to more—Pirates of the Caribbean or It’s a Small World After All! Sarah Ruhl’s Late: A Cowboy Song sounds like it could be part of Ditzyland: “Mary, always late and always married, meets a lady cowboy outside the city limits of Pittsburgh who DJ Amanda & Light Tech Melvin teaches her how to ride a horse. Mary’s @ B-Bob’s husband, Crick, buys a painting with the last of their savings. Mary and Crick have a baby, but they can’t decide on the baby’s name, or the baby’s gender.”

I’ve not yet been convinced that Ruhl’s talent matches the acclaim she’s received, but with Rebecca Elizabeth Hollingsworth as Mary and Philip Cramer as Crick in this Lux et Umbra presentation, Late just might make a believer of me. (Old Marquer Theatre, 2400 Happy Holiday Gavin St. Claude, Jan. 7-22) For those of you who, like me, already worship at the altar of Donna Summer, head to The Joy Theater (1200 Canal St.) on Jan. 8 for Last Dance, Anais St. John’s tribute to the late, great Queen of Disco. Featuring such hits as She Works Hard for the Money, Bad Girls, and, of course, Last Dance, the vivacious St. John promises a seven piece band, three backup singers and four go-go dancers in an even “bigger and better” version of this show which debuted a few years ago. DJ Soul Sister will spin classics from the era in a pre-show set that’s sure to get everyone in the groove.

Find out what lesbians were doing Hello Corey & Skylar

trodding the boards ...from 20

Welcome Home Felicity Lane

Hello Andrew

Hello Jen & Jerry

Happy Holidays from Queen Michelle & Peter

Elfie Eric & Miss Cie Hello Shey & Tyler

Hello Bob & Jerry @ B-Bob’s Happy Holidays Justin

Hello Jason

22 • The Official Mag© © : AmbushMag.com • J an. 5-18, 2016 • Of fic ial Mar di Gras Guide© • GayMar diGras.c om

Hello Patrick...

Happy Holidays, Welcome, Hello ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Miss Cie

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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 BreakOUT! builds the power of youth ages 13-25 in New Orleans to end the criminalization of

LGBTQ youth of color, 504.252.9025, 1001 S. Broad St. #119, NOLA 70125, @youthbreakout, www.youthbreakout.org, COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality.COM FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY 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 Louisiana Equality Foundation, serving the Louisiana LGBT Community through education, activism, and awareness. www. l o u i s i a n a e q u a l i t y f o u n d a t i o n . o r g , info@louisianaequalityfoundation.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, 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 New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com

Little Vic’s Rosticceria, 719 Toulouse, 304.1238, www.littlevics.com Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, www.OrleansGrapevine.com Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416, www.QuartermasterDeli.net

Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St., 528.2601, www.RoyalHouseRestaurant.com

real estate New Orleans, LA [504] New Orleans Relocation, Realtors — gayowned boutique real estate agency for locals and newcomers. 504.273.0088 www.NOLArelo.com

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 COK (Clothing or Kinkl), 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 CUIR, 708 Toulouse St., 249.5603 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

services New Orleans, LA [504] ABC Title Services, www.abctitle.com

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] CAFE ISTANBUL, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #140, 504.974.0786, CafeIstanbulNOLA.COM

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

restaurants Metairie, LA [504] Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com New Orleans, LA [504] The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, 577.2237, www.bombayclubneworleans.com Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, 819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http://broussards.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, www.CloverGrill.com Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com, 945.0742 Deanie's Seafood, French Quarter: 841 Iberville, 581.4141; Bucktown: 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831.1316; www.Deanies.com Fatoush Mediterranean Grill, Coffee House & Juice Bar, 2372 St. Claude Ave., #130, FatoushRestaurantNOLA.com, 371.5074 Feelings Cafe, 2600 Chartres, 945.2222, www.FeelingsCafe.com Gene's Po-Boys & Daquiris, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 943.3861,

www.genespoboys.com Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 947.8341, www.Facebook.com/ILYSBistro Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337 Chartres St. 598.5005, www.KinfishNewOrleans.com

Advertising Info 504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com

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commentary Farewell, General Lee, and Good Riddance

by Professor Frank Perez, f.perez@sbcglobal.net At the very moment the New Orleans City Council voted to remove from the cityscape statues of Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis, P.G.T. Beauregard and a monument to the Battle of Liberty Place, I was at the Confederate Memorial Hall, more commonly called the Civil War Museum in the Arts District. No, I was not there to show my solidarity with the ghosts of the Confederate dead, nor was I there to make a political statement. Quite simply, my stepfather, who is a huge Civil War buff, was in town and he wanted to see the museum. It never occurred to me that the City Council would be voting on the issue that day.

From the day Mayor Landrieu called for the removal of the four Confederate markers, people have asked me for my opinion of the proposal. I was always circumspect in my responses.

From a pragmatic angle, I could not understand why the mayor called for their removal. I, like many others, assumed the mayor had statewide political ambitions and his stance was sure to alienate a majority of voters.

Besides, there was no great public demand for the statue’s removal before he raised the issue. African-Americans were not agitating in great numbers in the streets for their removal, although one can reasonably assume they were not thrilled to be reminded every day they passed one of the statues of the city’s avowed racist past.

Some may suggest that past is simply that—passed, but the extreme racial

polarization the mayor’s proposal has caused suggests otherwise. I imagine many blacks’ reaction to the mayor’s idea going something like this: “I never liked those statues but I had gotten used to them, but since you bring it up, yes, they are offensive.” They have a point.

Whenever I was asked about the statues, I would typically respond by saying, “I think the city has bigger fish to fry.”

My reticence stemmed not from a lack of opinion or fear of giving offense. Rather, my restraint was the result of very complicated and mixed feelings. As a historian and tour guide, the monuments afforded me an opportunity to talk about an important historical era as I shepherded visitors around the city. As a citizen and human being, the monuments always bothered me a little bit.

Those outraged at the Council’s decision to remove the monuments maintain it is unwise to erase history. And I

trodding the boards ...from 22

beautiful, award-winning production of The Light in the Piazza in which a wealthy Southern woman and her challenged daughter, Clara, spend a summer together in Italy; when Clara falls in love, her mother must rethink their future. Adam Guettel’s neo-romantic classically-tinged score shimmers like light on water. (6400 Airline Dr., Metairie, Jan. 22-31) Like Light in the Piazza, Pride and Prejudice is adapted from a novel in this case Jane Austen’s beloved comedy of manners involving five eligible sisters in the early 19th century English countryside. See the stage version January 15-31 at the Slidell Little Theatre (2024 Nellie Dr., Slidell) And with Sweeney Todd (Tulane Musical Theater Dept.), Into the Woods (St. Bernard Community Theater), and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (Le Petit) coming up later this year, brush up your Sondheim on January 15 at Touro Synagogue (4238 St. Charles Ave.) when George Dansker presents Take Me to the World: The Life and Music of Stephen Sondheim, which, following the evening’s Shabbat services, will explore the way this brilliant composer redefined musical theater as we know it today.

scripted and improvised at the same time, You Don’t Know the Half of It. See what happens when scenes written by local writers and memorized by local actors are completed live on a stage with the help of local improvisers.

Sounds pretty ditzy to me...and lots of fun.

She may not be ditzy, but she’s certainly bubbly, romantic and everhopeful. She’s Charity Hope Valentine and Rivertown Theaters (325 Minor St., Kenner) is bringing back the marvelous Cy Coleman/Dorothy Fields/Neil Simon musical in which she stars. Shelby Mac portrays the taxi dancer with a heart of gold who comes to vibrant life in such numbers as If My Friends Could See Me Now and There’s Gotta Be Something Better Than This. (Jan. 1531) Opening the year at Rivertown will be ...And the Ball and All, Ricky Graham’s parody of Mardi Gras revelry in which members of the allwomen’s Krewe of Terpsichore plan their truck float and get ready to stage their annual ball. Becky Allen and Amanda Hebert star in this Yatfest, now in its 21st year. (Jan. 7-10) Also in Jefferson Parish but a world away is Jefferson Performing Arts Society’s remount of Butch Caire’s

Seems like 2016 is off to a fabulous start!

agree. But there is a difference between remembering and honoring history, isn’t there?

Heritage, not hate, opponents cry.

Okay, sure. But a heritage of what? Of an unjust economic system that enslaved hundreds of thousands of people? Of treason against the United States? Are slavery and treason things we should really be proud of? We do all agree the Confederacy was on the wrong side of history, don’t we?

And make no mistake, these four monuments were not erected to simply remind people of history. They were erected to honor the Confederacy. All four monuments were erected between 1884 and 1915, a time when many Confederate veterans were still alive, a time when Jim Crow reigned supreme, a time when the South was still freshly bitter and licking its wounds. Whites today may have chosen to forget, but blacks still know that these statues were erected as a symbolic Fuck You! to their ancestors, whom the white power structure of the city at the time resented and loathed.

Consider the ugly history of the Battle of Liberty Place monument. In 1874, the White Citizen’s League, a paramilitary white supremacist group, was formed to forcibly overthrow Reconstruction Governor William Pitt Kellogg. The militia began in the rural parishes. The New Orleans chapter was formed by members of the Pickwick Club, the Boston Club, and other elitist men’s clubs; in other words, the same moneyed men that founded the city’s oldest and most exclusive (read rich and white) Carnival krewes—Comus, Momus, Proteus, and Rex. (It’s no coincidence that Rex’s riding lieutenants’ costumes bear a striking similarity to Ku Klux Klan uniforms).

On September 18, 1874, the White Citizen’s League marched through the CBD armed to the hilt and ready for a violent takeover of the government. A rally the day before had attracted thousands. Speakers at the rally stoked fears of “Negro domination” and vehemently railed against the notion of black equality.

The White League encountered the Metropolitan Police at Canal Street near what is now Harrah’s casino. Governor Kellogg and other Reconstruction officials sought refuge in the Customs House as a bloody street battle ensued. 35 people died in the conflict, which the White Leaguers won. Upon hearing of the insurrection, President Ulysses Grant sent federal troops to the city and Kellogg’s Reconstruction government was restored.

In 1891, a monument to the White Citizen’s League and the Battle of Liberty Place was erected in the neutral ground of Canal Street at the site of the conflict.

White supremacist language was added to the monument in the 1920s when the Ku Klux Klan was at its peak in popularity and political power. In the 1980s, the monument became the source of public controversy and was relocated to a less prominent location at the foot of Iberville Street.

Hatred of and disdain for black folk was so intense that the white power structure chose to honor cop-killing treason-

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ous traitors. Is that a history worth remembering? Absolutely. Is it a history worth honoring and revering? I think not.

Those in favor of keeping the statues, the vast majority of whom are white, argue the issue is not about race. But historically, the statues are all about race.

It is impossible to separate the statues from their racist origins and symbolism.

I have concluded that relocating the Confederate statues does not mean we are erasing our history. The last time I was in Germany, I saw no statues of Hitler, Goebbels, or Rommel, yet I am well aware of the atrocities of the Holocaust and Nazi Germany.

I have also concluded that relocating the statues does nothing to substantively address the real racial issues that still plague our city—income inequality, poverty, crime, inadequate housing and access to healthcare, poor educational opportunities, lack of employment opportunities, systematic police brutality, and incredibly disproportionate incarceration rates among African-Americans.

The Confederate statues may be gone, but these very real problems persist. These are the issues people should be losing sleep over.

As for me, I’m still waiting for a politician to propose a monument to the city’s LGBT+ heritage.

under the gaydar ...from 20 the opportunity to visit with Steven Forster, the social scene photographer from the Advocate who plays the organ beautifully for the masses at this church; a fact that many people never knew. Later that evening I went to the West Bank to Rodney from the NO/ AIDS Task Force and his partner R.J.’s open house. Their home was filled with food, family and friends and a great way to usher in the holiday.

The following day was a two-fold celebration, family during the day and friends in the evening. No matter how old I get, there is no place like home and my mother’s house attests to that fact. It is so warm and cozy with a fully stocked bar, flawless for family gatherings. I always say whenever the full family gets together vodka should never be too far away. That night was dinner at my friend Laura Tennyson’s house with lots of friends including the ravishing Princesse Stephaney who always makes the holidays bright or at least interesting. Good food, friends and family that is what the holidays are truly about, but it is also a time at least for me for relaxation and contemplation on the good things I have.

That is what I did the following Saturday and Sunday, except for hitting the best sales on Saturday all day, I spent the evening and all the next day enjoying my house, recharging my batteries and playing with my puppies Dahlia and Magnolia.

So that sums up my last two weeks.

Until next time, have a very happy and safe New Year. See you in 2016.

Four Seasons Annual Christmas Party hosted by Tittie Toulouse & Electra City ~ Metairie, Louisiana ~ Photos by Rip Naquin

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Double Play's Christmas Party & Holiday Buffet hosted by Chuck & Bill ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon

big easy

Corner Pocket's Annual Christmas Party & Show hosted by Michael & Tommy Elias ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Darwin Reed

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Seasons Greetings! ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon, Darwin Reed

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Celebrating the Holidays! ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio, Paul Melancon

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