Ambush magazine volume 34 issue 22

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HALLOWEEN: The Whole Gay Weekend

Hector Fonseca @ Oz

DJ Morabito @ Oz

Monica Synclaire-Kennedy @ The Golden Lantern

Brian Bonds @ Phoenix Bar

Lana O'Day @ Four Seasons

The Brothers @ The Corner Pocket

Leo Fuentes @ Oz

DJ Whitney Day @ Bourbon Pub & Parade

Coca J Mesa @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile & Good Friends Bar

Seth Fornea @ Oz

DJ Producer Manny Lehman @ Bourbon Pub & Parade

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celebrazzi

Above; Adikus Sulpizi and Troy Powell join Mr. Louisiana Leather 2017 Ross Ransom on his first French Quarter bar crawl with a stop at the oldest gay bar in North America, Cafe Lafitte in Exile in New Orleans. Photo by Rip Naquin.

Left: Miss Gay Missouri USofA Classic Mercedes Alexander from Knowville joins B-Bob's show director Miss Cie and King Cake Queen XXII of Gay Mardi Gras Aubrey Synclaire from NOLA following their performances at B-Bob's in downtown Mobile, Alabama.

Above: Gay Easter Parade Board's Marsha Delain and Rip Naquin join Bebe Scarpinato for the Celebration of Life of Tom "Rona" Conners at Cafe Lafitte in Exile Oct. 15 in New Orleans. Nine Easter Grand Marshals and two King Cake Queens were among the guests in attendance for the grand send-off of their friend, Rona. They all reminisced and shared stories, and then at 5pm hosted a toast to Tom at which time Bob Boler was phoned in Florida to join in the celebration. Tom and Bob would have celebrated their 50th Anniversary on Dec. 1. Photo

by Jeff Palmquist.

Left: Nicholas Andrews and Trey Ming have a joyous celebration following their wedding on Friday, Oct. 21 in the Queen's Head Pub. Many friends joined the couple upstairs at Good Friends Bar for their nuptials. Photo by Darwin Reed.

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the "official" dish

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: ripna@ambushmag.com

Ambush Magazine Makes Endorsements including Hillary Clinton for President The upcoming November 8th election may very well be the most important one in the lives of the LGBT+ community and the community at large for the next 25 years. There is so much at stake especially the fact that the next President will possibly appoint 2 to 3 or more justices to the Supreme Court of the United States. Those selections will guide the course either maintaining the victories won or head in the direction of complete reversals. That then brings us to both houses of Congress which may change the balance of power. The Senate has a better chance of success, so your vote in this election is as important as life itself.

Ambush Magazine makes the following endorsements: President - Hillary Clinton, Timothy Kaine Louisiana US Senate - Foster Campbell Louisiana US Rep (1st District) - Lee Ann Dugas Louisiana US Rep (2nd District) - Congressman Cedric Richmond Orleans Parish Judge 4th Circuit Court of Appeal - Judge Laurie White Vote Tuesday, Nov. 8. It is easy to find your voting options and locations @ https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/.

HNO 33: A Benefit Weekend for Project Lazarus Oct. 27 – 30 presents "Pirates Revenge: The Curse of Jean Lafitte" "In the early 1800’s Pirate Jean Lafitte pirated many ships, stored the goods and later sold them to the people of New Orleans. He was killed before he could reveal where he left all of his precious goods. Come spend Halloween weekend with us as we search the city for Lafitte's hidden treasures. But don’t get caught because if you do Lafitte will curse you and haunt you until you return his treasures. Come prepared to search for some BOOTY, dance the nights away and enjoy the sometimes haunted city of New Orleans."

The mission of the Hosts of Halloween is to provide funding for Project Lazarus, a home in New Orleans for men and women with AIDS, so that they may provide healthcare and support services for their residents. Project Lazarus, which provides direct AIDS services, is the sole beneficiary of all funds which are raised. In its 32 year history, HNO has raised almost $4.5M for Project Lazarus.

"We are one of the only 100% donation/volunteer event weekends left in the US." Thursday, Oct. 27th, 7:30-10:30pm: Join Halloween New Orleans presenting “The Lazarus Ball”, the kick-off for HNO: Pirate’s Revenge Weekend. This year’s event will feature live entertainment, great food, and the incredible silent auction with items from many local businesses, galleries, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The auction is an important part of yearly fundraising, so please come with your wallets open! This is a great event to bring co-workers and friends that might not be as interested in the other parties. Venue: Il Mercato, Lower Garden District, 1911 Magazine St.; Dress: Black Tie preferred; OPEN BAR!; 21+.

Friday, Oct. 28th, 9:30-2am: The Neon Party returns! Everyone had such an amazing time last year, they're bringing it back. This year the party moves venues

inside

Pre-Thanksgiving issue due out Nov. 8 DEADLINE: Nov. 1

halloween: the whole gay weekend 4 craft cocktails/candy apple 4 celebrazzi 6 big easy paparazzi/new orleans 14 moments in gay new orleans history 16 2016 election guide 16 halloween new orleans 18 snap paparazzi/new orleans 20 chop chop/clover grill, rest. guide 27 classifieds 32-33 under the gaydar 33

trodding the boards real estate spotlight feature/mr. louisiana leather out front lez talk ambush paparazzi/new orleans mobile paparazzi ambush paparazzi/new orleans

AD INFO: Call 504.522.8049 ripna@ambushmag.com

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to The Civic Theatre with the amazing DJ Joe Ross! It’s going to be a great night! Venue: The Civic Theatre, 510 O’Keefe Ave; come in Neon attire!; 21+; student tickets available at door only, with valid student ID. Saturday, Oct. 29th, 10pm-3am: The biggest gay Halloween party in NOLA is back at the Contemporary Arts Center with music by DJ Grind and DJ Will Lowe. It boast the giant Costume Contest, Stage Show and VIP Lounge! Costume required for entry... doors open 10pm. Costume Contest starts at 10:30pm with the Show following at 12midnight. Venue: Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St.; hosted bar included with ticket purchase; VIP Lounge included with Host, Patron & VIPirate Pass; 21+; student tickets available at door only, with valid student ID. Sunday, Oct. 30th, 1-4pm: In honor of the pirate theme, Halloween is returning to the water – but this time with a Tea Dance on The Creole Queen!!

Come out to dance, eat brunch and catch up on last night’s gossip! Be sure to stay to the end and join us as "we" Second Line from The Creole Queen to Oz! Venue: The Paddlewheeler Creole Queen, 1 Poydras St. in Spanish Plaza behind the World Trade Center building; hosted bar included with ticket; 21+.

Tickets include: Weekend Pass (October) $300.00, Thursday, The Lazarus Ball $80.00, Friday, HNO-GLO Neon Party (Presale) $45.00, Saturday, Main Event (Oct) $100.00, and Sunday, Queens’ Tea (Oct) $75.00.

Buy tickets/passes at www.HalloweenNewOrleans.com/tickets-passes/. For more information, visit www.HalloweenNewOrleans.com.

Ambush Magazine has been a proud sponsor of Halloween New Orleans for almost 3 decades.

Halloween Lineup Oct. 26-31 @ Oz Dance and Show Club of the Year Oz New Orleans has set an exciting lineup for Halloween running Oct. 26 through Oct. 31.

It all begins on Wednesday, Oct. 26 with a Halloween Spooktacular Show Night at 10:30pm! Starring ALL of the Ladies of Oz including Lisa Beaumann, Nicole Lynn Foxx, Chi-Chi Rodriquez, Connie Hung, Coca Mesa, Gia GiaVanni, Dominique DeLorean, and Anastacia Davenport, the show is hosted by Persana Shoulders with the talents of DJ of the Year Tim Pflueger presiding.

Thursday, Oct. 27 is the Halloween edition of the Oz Strip Off sponsored by Swiss Navy Lube at midnight! Boys will be battling it out to win $300 in cash and prizes hosted Persana Shoulders. Featuring celebrity guest judges and a performance from Miss Louisiana Leatherette - Gia GiaVanni, DJ Tim Pflueger will spin all night long.

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 Lulu Blackwell • Paul Melancon THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Misti Ates, 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

Dance all night long with DJ Hector Fonseca headlining Friday, Oct. 28 with resident DJs Kyle D, Tim Pflueger, and JRB taking the reins as well. The sexiest gogo dancers from around the country dancing on top of the bars include Seth Fornea, Jared Bradford, David Emmanuel, Stephen Land, Leo Fuentes, Rikk York, and many more!

On Saturday, Oct. 29, don't miss music by Morabito as well as the resident DJs spinning throughout the day and night. The sexiest gogos from

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around the country will be on top of the bar.

DJ Max Rodriquez is headlining Sunday, Oct. 31 with resident DJs spinning throughout the day and night featuring sexy gogos dancing on top of the bar.

Monday, Oct. 31 closes out the weekend with a special Halloween Costume Contest hosted by Persana Shoulders! 1st place wins $300 in cash, 2nd place wins $100 bar tab, and 3rd place wins a $50 bar tab. Resident DJs Kyle D, Tim Pflueger, and JRB are closing out the weekend. For more info, visit www.OzNewOrleans.com.

Lords and Sisters “Boo(ty)” Party Oct. 29 Come out to the Phoenix Bar on Saturday, Oct. 29 as the Lords of Leather and Big Easy Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence unite to throw a “Boo(ty)” Halloween Party you won’t want to miss! Fun begins at 9pm with a $10 Haunted Beer Bust – all the keg beer/soda and snacks you can consume until midnight. Jello shots too for just a buck.

The Sisters will be face painting and beard glittering. Tips will be donated to charity. The Phoenix will be hosting hot and sexy Cell Block dancers (by Timoteo) for your Halloween enjoyment.

A Costume Contest will be held

starting at 10pm with prizes going to the “scariest”, “funniest” and sexiest” costumes. So find a costume, wear your leather or come as you are and get in the Halloween spirit with the Lords and Sisters. There will be “Tricks and Treats” for everyone at this party!

Lords’ "Evening of Art and Spirits" Nov. 10 Please join the Lords of Leather for their annual “Evening of Art and Spirits” to be held on Thursday, Nov. 10 from 7 – 10pm.

The setting will be the charming and historic Maison Macarty Guest House, located at 3820 Burgundy Street in the Bywater. Local artists will be displaying and selling their work while patrons enjoy a wide selection of wine, beer, vodka, whiskey and light snacks. A silent auction will also be held.

Tickets are available from members of the Krewe for just $20 as well as online at http://lords-ofleather.ticketleap.com.

COK Host Marius Cigaral & Brian Bonds Halloween Weekend COK which is located inside of the Phoenix Bar will host Marius Cigaral of Cellblock 13 and model Brian Bonds over Halloween weekend. Marius will be in the store to help you with any of

your purchases for the circuit parties or your own private parties, and Brian will be on stage all four nights showing off the latest from Cellblock 13, including the new collection of Neoprene harnesses and jockstraps.

In 2012, the Timoteo fashion company launched its new label, CellBlock 13. Created and designed by Timoteo, CellBlock 13 is the go to brand for FASHION MEETS FETISH and people all over the world count CellBlock 13 as the one place to find the latest in ‘gear’.

The line consists of jockstraps, underwear, neoprene harnesses, shorts, tanks, tees, neoprene jockstraps and socks. CellBlock 13 is designed with every fetish in mind and is sold around the world.

COK is open 7 days a week. Sunday and Monday 4PM until Midnight and Tuesday through Saturday 4PM until 3AM and by appointment.

30th Anniversary Art Against AIDS Dec. 3 The 30th Anniversary Art Against AIDS is set for Saturday, Dec. 3 at Club XLIV on Champions Square at the Mercedes Benz Super Dome. The Patron Party is 7 to 8pm with the gala running from 8 to 11pm.

Michael L. Walters as Dame Edna will blow into town for Art Against AIDS with the force of a Cat 5 hurricane…

Hurricane Katrina kept the original Dame

Edna from performing in New Orleans over 11 years ago. So this is a show you definitely won’t want to miss!

Sequins blaze and punchlines fly as renowned vocalist and stage actor Michael Walters presents an uncanny impersonation of Dame Edna that critics and stars alike have lauded for nearly 18 years! www.Totaltheatre.com raves, “The closest thing to enjoying Dame Edna’s outrageous comedy on Broadway is to laugh ’til you cry over Michael Walters as Dame Edna!” On top of that, Walters lends his booming baritone voice to jawdropping Broadway classics which the wife of late Broadway legend Robert Goulet calls “Beyond Impressive!” You’ve never seen or heard Dame Edna quite like this!

Join NO/AIDS Task Force as they bring together both visually stunning and spectacular performing arts all under the roof of Club XLIV on Champions Square at the Superdome.

Event Chair is Tim Fields with Honorary Auction Chair Lucille McDonnell; and Auction Chairs: Kimberly Norwood Robinson, Colleen Keogh, Andrea Sabillon Halstead and Jake Thomas.

Tickets include: AAA Single Patron Ticket $250.00 AAA Double Patron Ticket $500.00 AAA Abstract Ticket $1,000.00 (4 Tickets) AAA Gala Ticket $100.00 AAA Gala Ticket (35-under) $50.00 Visit http://www.noaidstaskforce.org/ events/aaa/ to purchase tickets.

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The Double Play

big easy

paparazzi

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Karaoke Nightly @ Kajun's Pub ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ashly Rose

le grand facile ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon

Ilys Bistro/Gene's Po-Boys

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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

Inaugural LGBTQ Summit Held in Baton Rouge Representatives from a wide variety of LGBTQ organizations from around the state of Louisiana recently gathered in Baton Rouge for the first LGBTQ Statewide Summit. The Summit was sponsored by the Foundation for Louisiana, the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the Baton Rouge Area Foundation, and Funders for LGBTQ Issues.

Louisiana and the Greater New OrThe meeting was part of a larger leans Foundation are charter members project called “Out in the South,” an of the “Out in the South” funder netinitiative of Funders for LGBTQ Issues. work.

Founded in 1982, Funders for LGBTQ In addition to affording attendees Issues seeks to mobilize philanthropic the opportunity to meet and network, resources that enhance the well-being the two day meeting featured a panel of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender discussion entitled “Organizing for Poand queer communities, promote eq- litical Change.” Also, a wide range of uity, and advance racial, economic and topics was also addressed in smaller gender justice. The Foundation for sessions and exercises, including: hous-

ing/homelessness, right wing attacks, health care, mental health, education, violence, community/coalition building, criminal justice reform, poverty and economic issues.

Funders for LGBTQ Issues has compiled a comprehensive three-part study on LGBTQ issues in the South.

The report’s findings include the following > 3 in 10 LGBT adults live in the South, more than any other region in the nation > LGBT Southerners are more likely to be people of color, have low incomes, and be raising children > None of the 14 Southern states have statewide non-discrimination protections with regard to employment, housing, or public accommodations > 81% of rural LGBT students feel unsafe at school > 24% of LGBT Southerners lack health insurance compared to 16% of

out front 2016 Election Guide

by Frank Perez It is safe to say that everyone will rejoice when this election is over. The campaign for President has been ugly and disturbing. In the rare event there are any undecided voters remaining, please know there are 13 candidates for President on the Louisiana ballot. They are listed below in alphabetical order along with their Vice Presidential running mates and party affiliations: Darrell Castle, Scott Bradley (Constitution) Hillary Clinton, Timothy Kaine (Democrat) Tom Hoefling, Steve Schulin (Life, Family, Constitution) Princess Jacob, Milton Fambro (Loyal Trustworthy Compassion) Gary Johnson, Bill Weld (Libertarian) Alyson Kennedy, Osborne Hart (Socialist Workers) Chris Keniston, Deacon Taylor (Veterans) Laurence Kotlikoff, Edward Lea (It’s Our Children) Gloria La Riva, Eugene Puryear (Socialism and Liberation) Evan McMullin, Nathan Johnson (Courage Character Service) Jill Stein, Ajamu Baraka (Green) Donald Trump, Michael Pence (Republican) Jerry White, Niles Niemuth (Socialism Equality Anti-War) It is safe to assume based on previous voting patterns and current polling data that Trump will carry Louisiana. The sad reality is that Louisiana, and the South in general (ie-the old Confederacy), is filled with ignorant, racist, homophobic, misogynistic, xenophobic morons. Personally, I am following Bernie Sanders’ advice and voting for Hillary, though the Socialist Workers Party is also appealing to me.

What really matters is the U.S. Senate race. The Democrats have a very good chance of recapturing the Senate, includ-

ing the Louisiana Senate Seat up for grabs.

For LGBT+ folks, this is very important as the Republican Party has consistently voted against our rights and interests.

by Governor John Bell Edwards (D), a strong ally of LGBTQ rights. Campbell represents the LGBT+ community’s best chance of having a friendly U.S. Senator.

There are 24 candidates in the Senate race: Beryl Billiot (No Party) Charles Boustany (Republican) Foster Campbell (Democrat) “Joseph” Cao (Republican) Thomas P. Clements (Libertarian) Donald “Crawdaddy” Crawford (Republican) David Duke (Republican) Derrick Edwards (Democrat) Caroline Fayard (Democrat) John Fleming (Republican) Le Roy Gillam (Libertarian) Troy Hebert (No Party) John Kennedy (Republican) Gary Landrieu (Democrat) William Robert “Bob” Lang, Jr. (Other) “Rob” Maness (Republican) Kaitlin Marone (No Party) Charles Marsala (Republican) MV “Vinny” Mendoza (Democrat) Abhay Patel (Republican) Joshua Pellerin (Democrat) Gregory Taylor, Jr. (Other) Arden Wells (No Party) Peter Williams (Democrat) A recent poll conducted by JMC Analytics between October 11—15 has Foster Campbell (D) leading the pack with 23.4%. Kennedy (R) is in second place with 15.5% and Fleming (R) and Boustany (R) following with 14.5% and 14.4% respectively. Fayard is further behind with 9.4%.

These numbers suggest that Democrat Foster Campbell will face either Kennedy or Fleming or Boustany (all Republicans) in the run-off.

Campbell is a moderate populist from North Louisiana and currently serves on the Public Service Commission. He has proven cross-over appeal to conservative republican voters and has been endorsed

Also on the statewide ballot are six proposed Constitutional Amendments. The following information is adapted from The Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana Amendment 1 - Establishes new requirements for local registrars of voters A vote FOR would require standards of professional and educational experience for local registrars of voters and more public disclosure in their hiring process.

A vote AGAINST would leave the existing job requirements in place and allow local governing authorities greater discretion when filling registrar vacancies.

Amendment 2 - Tuition and fee autonomy to college management boards A vote FOR would let higher education management boards set annual tuition rates and fee amounts for colleges and universities without legislative approval.

A vote AGAINST would preserve the state Legislature’s authority over tuition and fee levels.

Amendment 3 - Eliminates federal income tax deduction for corporations on state tax returns and sets a flat rate A vote FOR would eliminate the deduction for federal income taxes paid by corporations when calculating state income taxes while triggering a flat corporate tax rate of 6.5%.

A vote AGAINST would allow corporations to continue receiving a state income tax deduction for federal income taxes paid and allow the existing corporate tax rates and brackets to remain.

Amendment 4 - Property tax exemption for surviving spouses of persons killed in the line of duty A vote FOR would give surviving spouses of military, fire protection officers

their non-LGBT counterparts > HIV infections rates are rising faster in the South than any other region in the country > The South receives about 8% of domestic LGBT funding annually > More than 750 groups and organizations in the South are working on behalf of LGBT people > Half of these groups have only one or no full-time staff The following organizations participated in the summit: ACLU of Louisiana, Ambush Magazine, Baton Rouge Area Foundation, Baton Rouge Pride, Black Youth Project 100 New Orleans, blaQballet, BreakOUT!, Brotherhood Incorporated, CrescentCare (formerly NO/AIDS Task Force), Diversity House, Equality Louisiana, Forum for Equality, Foundation for Louisiana, GLASS (Giving Love Acceptance Safety and Support), Governor John Bell Edwards’ Administration, GNOF (Greater New Orleans Foundation), HAART (HIV/ AIDS Alliance for Region Two, Inc.), Human Rights Campaign, In This Together, Innocence Project, JPAAC, Krewe of Apollo (Baton Rouge), Last Call: New Orleans Dyke Bar History Project, LDSC, LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, LGBT Community Center of New Orleans, LOUD: New Orleans Queer Youth Theater, Louisiana Progress, Louisiana Trans Advocates, MCC (Metropolitan Community Church), Mississippi Safe Schools Coalition, Mystic Krewe of the Lords of Leather, Narcisse Movement Project, National Performance Network, N’kafu Traditional African Dance Company, New Orleans Regional AIDS Planning Council, PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), Peacock Rebellion, Positively Trans, Project Lazarus, Queer Cultural Center, Spectrum, St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Trans United, Women With A Vision, and the Youth Empowerment Project. and law enforcement personnel who died while on duty a full property tax exemption on their home.

A vote AGAINST would leave existing ad valorem property tax exemption levels and eligibility requirements in place.

Amendment 5 - Creates a Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund A vote FOR would create the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund to receive a portion of revenues from corporate and mineral taxes and to spend the money on infrastructure and pension liabilities.

A vote AGAINST would continue to allow corporate tax and mineral revenue above a certain threshold to flow into the state general fund for appropriation by the legislature.

Amendment 6 - Adjusts threshold for tapping protected funds A vote FOR would provide legislators a new way to tap into constitutionally protected funds during revenue downturns and also extends protection to five existing funds.

A vote AGAINST would keep in place the existing trigger which allows the Legislature to tap into otherwise protected funds.

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Good Friends Bar

Bourbon Pub & Parade

snap paparazzi

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Phoenix

C'est si Bon ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Adrian Claveria, Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin, Darwin Reed

Oz New Orleans

chop chop

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain Email: ripna@ambushmag.com

Special Combo Pizza @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St.

Clover Grill Features New House-made Burgers & Hand-cut Onion Rings

Leave it up to the “world” famous Clover Grill to keep the magic happening as it introduces its brand new house-made burgers and hand-cut onion rings. We decided to pop in for dinner to see what all the buzz on the street was about. Many of our friends were just raving about the Clover’s updated menu.

First off we always start out with one of the Grill’s ice cold strawberry milk shakes, a staple for our notorious New Orleans heat. Manager Errol Rizzuto was still on duty when we arrived, and after a little chit-chat, we ordered two burgers, one with cheddar and the other with swiss, and one order of onion rings. The hallmark of any good burger starts with the beef. We found out the house made burgers were prepared with 80/20 ground chuck which has just enough World Famous Swiss Burger @ fat to give it that over the top juicy factor. And the flavor Restaurant of The Year, Clover seasoning in the beef (which is a secret recipe) just Grill, 900 Bourbon St. enhanced the whole burger dressed with mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. Another Clover secret is cooking those big juicy patties under a hub cap giving you that extra something that a grilled burger lacks.

Next was the new thick hand-cut onion rings which were well seasoned and fried crisp in a house-made beer batter. The fried batter adhered perfectly to each onion slice, and when you bite into it, the batter and onion stayed together, giving you outstanding taste and texture. You know how practically every time you order onion rings either you just get the fried batter or just the onion. Well the Clover found out whatever the secret is to keep them both together.

We both join the chorus of raves out Shrimp, Andouille & Stoneground there, and told Manager Grits @ The Country Club, Errol how delish every634 Louisa St. thing was. Errol responded, “I am very happy you enjoyed the dinner. We worked long and hard on the burgers and hearing your compliment means a great deal to me.” And that is a wrap.

Since 1939 Clover Grill has been home to the best breakfasts and burgers on Bourbon Street…maybe even the whole French Sloppy Roast Beef Po-Boy @ Quarter! Located at 900 Bourbon Street, find out more about the Grill and its extensive Gene's Po-Boys, 1040 Elysian Fields menu at www.CloverGrill.com. Clover Grill is part of the Wood Enterprises family of businesses.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Special @ Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave.

Boudin Scotch Eggs @ The Bombay Club, 830 Conti St.

Mumbo Gumbo @ Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie

Cracklin's, Boudin Balls & Pickles @ Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude

Metairie Restaurant Guide

New Orleans Muffuletta @ Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St.

Chargrilled Oysters @ Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St.

Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com, is a quaint eatery serving five different gumbos (ranked Top 5 Gumbos in the city), New Orleans favorites, house specials, speClover Grill's Aaron Parrish, cialty sandwiches, daily speManager Errol Rizzuto, cials, appetizers and desserts Chris Trevisan & Joe Congleton all prepared by award winning Chef Ron Iafrate. Open Mon-Sat. 11am- music showcasing the most talented jazz 9pm, closed Sunday. musicians in New Orleans. Dining hours 410pm Sun.-Thur., 4-11pm Fri.-Sat. Broussard’s Restaurant & CourtNew Orleans yard, 819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http:// Restaurant Guide broussards.com. A favorite fixture in New The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, Orleans for nearly 100 years, Broussard’s w w w. b o m b a y c l u b n e w o r l e a n s . c o m , is located in the heart of the French Quarter, 577.2237. The Bombay Club is host to an featuring classic French and Creole food, eclectic menu of British-Cajun fare, quality [continued on 28] craft cocktails & unique martinis. Enjoy live

Filet Mignon Broussard @ Broussard's, 819 Rue Conti

BBQ Shrimp & Waffles @ Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337 Chartres

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restaurant guide ...from 27 old architecture, and tradition. Dining hours 5:30-9pm Tues.-Thurs. & Sun., 5:30-10pm Fri.-Sat., 10:30am-2:30pm Sunday Brunch.

Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., www.TheCheezyCajun.com, 265.0045, is NOLA's newest full restaurant and deli serving a variety of Cajun foods including Boudin and Cracklins’ mixed with a variety of Wisconsin Cheeses, plus fab party trays.

Open Lunch & Dinner 11am - 8pm Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri., closed on Wed., Brunch & Lunch 10am - 4pm Sat. & Sun. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM, is open 7 days, 24 hours. and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes.

Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., 504.945.0742, www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com Chef Chris Barbato’s food is attentive to detail and ingredient, with a focus on flavors that taste of the Creole South. Serving 7 days 10am-10pm; Saturday & Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm (Reservations strongly suggested).

Gene's Po-Boys & Daquiris,1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 943.3861, www.genespoboys.com, is famous for its New Orleans style po-boy sandwiches chockful of ingredients. Open 24 hours.

Hop the Rampart/St. Claude Street Car Line... the last stop at Elysian Fields!

Ilys Bistro, 1040 Elysian Fields Ave., 947.8341, www.Facebook.com/ILYSBistro, offers home cooking and friendly service, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featur-

ing plates, poboys, and daily specials.

Breakfast Mon.-Sat. 6am-11am & Sun. 11am-1pm; lunch and dinner 11am-close.

Hop the Rampart/St. Claude Street Car Line... the last stop at Elysian Fields!

Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, 337 Chartres St. 598.5005, www.KinfishNewOrleans.com,"brings customers back to the Huey P. Long era with vintage-inspired cocktails & unique Creole and Southern dishes. Join us for dinner, or meet up with friends to relax at our cocktail bar.”

Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746, features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Open Mon.Thurs. 5-10pm, Fri.-Sun. 11am-10pm.

Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans, 523.1930, is located in a beautiful renovated 1809 building offering a pleasant atmosphere, extensive wine list with 200 selections, and delicious food including soups, salads, appetizers, entrees and house made desserts that will delight any palate. Open daily at 4pm serving dinner Sun.-Thurs. 5-10:30pm, Fri.Sat. 5-11pm.

Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., 529.1416, www.QuartermasterDeli.net, voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year, is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night menu, the deli offers free delivery.

Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal St., 528.2601, www.RoyalHouseRestaurant.com, is a casual classic, offering fresh-shucked oysters and fresh local seafood in a setting that follows the best traditions of dining in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter.

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TROPICAL ISLE: Home of the Hand Grenade, 721 Bourbon St., 529.4109, TropicalIsle.COM VALIANT THEATRE AND LOUNGE, 6621 St. Claude Ave., Arabi, LA, 504.900.1743 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Biloxi, MS [228] CLUB VEAUX, 834 Howard Ave., 207.3271

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

circuit/events

classifieds

Oct. 27-Oct. 30, 2016 Halloween 33, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, HalloweenNewOrleans.com Dec. 26, 2015-Jan. 1, 2017 Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.com Feb. 24-28, 2017, 68th Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.com Easter Sunday, April 16, 2017, 18th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.com Aug. 30-Sept. 4, 2017, 46th Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 180,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.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

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

guides 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] 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 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 BIG EASY DAIQUIRIS, 216 Bourbon, 501 Bourbon, 409 Decatur, 617 Decatur

THE BLACK PENNY, 700 N. Rampart 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 MAG'S 940, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM THE PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 875.4976 PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, www.phoenixbarnola.com RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM

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 DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416

hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] Two Guys Cutting Hair, 2372 St. Claude Ave., Suite 125, appointments: Adikus 215.519.5030, Trent 504.239.2397

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

lodging/accommodations New Orleans [504] AARON INGRAM HAUS, 1012 Elysian Fields, New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.949.3110, www.ingramhaus.com/xqey, e-mail us at ingramhaus@yahoo.com. Condos with queen-size 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.

[0715] BLUES60 GUEST HOUSE, 1008 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117, Phone: 1.504.324.4311, www.blues60guesthouse.com, info@blues60guesthouse.com. The Blue60 Guest House with 5 suites provides a peaceful retreat in the center of the Faubourg Marigny, just blocks from the French Quarter and Frenchman St. [1115] 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, www.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.

[0815] 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!

THE NATCHEZ, 530 Natchez St., Phone: 504.881.1243, www.thenatchez.com, reservations@thenatchez.com. Steps from the French Quarter located centrally in Downtown New Orleans with luxury 2, 3, and 4 bedroom suites are available for rent.

[10/16] THE ST. PHILIP HOTEL, 612 St. Philip St., Phone: 504.523.2197, www.thestphilip.com, reservations@thestphiliphotel.com. The St. Philip Hotel (circa 1839) is a Mediterranean-style building in the French Quarter that is centrally located to everything in the French Quarter. The hotel is only a 2-3 minute walk to the French Market, Cafe Du Monde, Jackson Square, Royal Street, and Bourbon Street.

[10/16]

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.co

organizations FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 504.821.2601 ext.

254 FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), 504.319.8261, www.fridaynightbeforemardigras.com 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

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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 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 NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 504.821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM PRIDE, NOLAPride.ORG 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

pharmacy Avita Pharmacy, offers personalized 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 pharmacy 24/7. www.avitapharmacy.com.

Locations: Baton Rouge, LA, 5551 Corporate Blvd, Suite 102, Tel: 225.924.9130 or 888.792.8482, 70808; New Orleans, LA , Tulane Tower, 2601 Tulans Ave., Suite 445, Tel: 504.822.0131 or 877.424.2930, 70119; New Orleans, LA, Marine Building, 3308 Tulane Ave., Suite 102, 70119, Tel: 504.309.2557 or 844.309.2557.

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

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 Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., 265.0045, www.TheCheezyCajun.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, www.CloverGrill.com Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., www.TheCountryClubNewOrleans.com, 945.0742 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 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 Stanley, 547 St. Ann St., 587.0093, www.StanleyRestaurant.com

real estate New Orleans, LA [504] Latter & Blum, Steven Richards Realtor, 504.258.1800, SteveRichardsProperties.com Latter & Blum, Steven Vaughn Realtor, Cell 504.810.4646, Office 504.948.3011, w w w. St e v e n Va u g h a n P r o p e r t i e s . c o m , Svaughan@latterblum.com New Orleans Relocation, Realtors — gayowned boutique real estate agency for locals and newcomers. 504.273.0088 www.NOLArelo.com Gay Real Estate, www.GayRealEstate.com, 888.420.6683

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] BOURBON PRIDE, 909 Bourbon, 566.1570 COK (Clothing or Kinkl), 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264 MARY'S FRENCH QUARTER KITCHEN & BATH, 732 N. Rampart, 529.4465 QT PIE BOUTIQUE - 241 Dauphine St., 581. 6633 XXXSHOP, 1835 N. Rampart St., 504.232.3063

services New Orleans, LA [504] ABC Title Services, www.abctitle.com Formal Connection, 299 Belle Terre Blvd.

LaPlace, LA, 985.652.1195 Milavo, www.milavospray.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

under the gaydar

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

Hot Happenings New Orleans is the perfect place to celebrate Halloween. There are so many sexy ghosts and goblins running around that it is just scary! So here are all the supernatural delights we have in store for you.

welcoming, this is a truly amazing event.

Doors Open at 10pm; Costume Contest starts 10:30pm, Show at midnight.

Music by DJ Grind. Costume required for entry.

For tickets, go to www.halloweenneworleans.com.

Tuesday – Sunday, October 25 – 30, 2016 Direct from Broadway, The Illusionists dubbed the world’s best-selling magic show is coming to the Saenger Theatre (1111 Canal Street). This mindblowing spectacular showcases the jawdropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth. THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY has shattered box office records around the world and dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling, sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. For tickets, go to www.saengernola.com.

Sunday, October 30, 2016 In honor of the Halloween New Orleans pirate theme, they are returning to the water – but this time with a Tea Dance on The Creole Queen (1 Poydras Street)! The boat will remain docked for most of the time, with a short sail and DJ Joe Gauthreaux helping us put an amazing stamp on the end of the weekend - tea dance style.

Come out to dance, eat brunch and recap the weekend! Be sure to stay to the end and join us as we Second Line (a walking parade) from The Creole Queen to Oz! This is one of the most highly rated experiences of the past few Halloweens, so be sure to join us for a truly New Orleans experience.

For tickets, go to www.halloweenneworleans.com.

Thursday, October 27, 2016 Join us as Halloween New Orleans presents “The Lazarus Ball”, the kickoff for HNO: Pirate’s Revenge Weekend at Il Mercato (1911 Magazine Street) starting from 7:30 – 10:30pm.

This year’s event will feature live entertainment, great food, and our amazing silent auction with items from many local businesses, art galleries, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The auction is an important part of our yearly fundraising, so please come with your wallets open and invite friends who are interested in great art from our community. For tickets, go to www.halloweenneworleans.com.

Friday, October 28, 2016 Back by popular demand, the Neon Party returns and Halloween New Orleans is taking it back to the Civic Theatre (the location of the original HNO party) located at 510 O’Keefe Avenue. The party is from 9:30pm to 2am. The amazing DJ Joe Ross will be taking the reins and promises to BRING it! It’s going to be a great night! Watch for the SKYY neon bar. For tickets, go to www.halloweenneworleans.com.

Saturday, October 29, 2016 The main event of Halloween New Orleans weekend returns to the Contemporary Arts Center (900 Camp Street). This time, they’re exploring the world of Jean Lafitte, an infamous pirate. You don’t have to follow the theme, but you do have to come in costume. All

Tuesday, November 1, 2016 Join the Big Easy Sisters for their celebration of Dia De La Muertos (Day of the Dead) starting at 7pm at Mag's 940 (940 Elysian Fields) in the Marigny.

Accompanying the Sisters will be members of the Radical Faeries, Skinz ~n~ Bonez and NOLA PAH. The candlelight procession will meander through the Marigny and French Quarter in remembrance of the souls we lost. Black and white attire is encouraged. Candles are available for $1 donation. All monies raised will go to local charities.

Thursday, November 3, 2016 Let’s play Drag Roulette at the Four Seasons (3229 N. Causeway) starting at 10:30pm. You may have asked yourself why is that queen doing that song... and that song... and wait didn’t that other queen just do that song. Well we are giving the audience the chance to hijack this show. There will be a bucket with a hole on top full of music selections. Whatever you choose... the performers have to do!

Laveau Contraire and Ilaynnah Eve DeLorean join host Rock Hunter O’Day for a night of drag that promises to be the epitome of the HOT MESS EXPRESS. Friday, November 4, 2016 She’s back! The hilariously hateful comic known as Bianca Del Rio (aka [continued on 34]

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Scorpio Boys Entertainment Presents ‘Big Easy Boylesque’ at the Four Seasons (3229 N. Causeway Blvd) at 8pm. It’s will be a night of reveals, sexy men, and more fun that you can shake a stick at. There is a $3 Cover.

Party Down

under the gaydar ...from 32 Roy Haylock) is coming home for her latest global standup tour – Not Today Satan. Find out why the New York Times calls Bianca “the Joan Rivers of the drag world” and Joan herself called Bianca “so fresh, so smart.” on company.

Bianca’s last standup act, “Rolodex of Hate,” toured the world with sold out shows for over a year before being ordered as an original streaming TV special by Vimeo and later, purchased for cable by Logo TV. In it she tackled the major events, people and places in her early life that shaped her into one of the world’s fastest rising insult comics.

“Not Today Satan” picks up right where she left off, chronicling her adventures since winning a certain well-known dragfocused reality show, becoming “gay famous,” moving to Los Angeles and the inherent challenges of dating and making a living as a man in a dress.

The show will be at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre (1419 Basin Street) starting at 8pm. Get you tickets at http://www.ticketmaster.com.

Friday, November 4, 2016 The Ladies of Bolt (in Lafayette) are invading The Four Seasons (3229 N. Causeway Blvd.)! Kenli Andrews, Roxie Black, Santana Pilar Andrews, and host Dominique DeLorean will strut their stuff starting at 10:30pm.

Thursday, November 10, 2016 Join The Lords of Leather for their annual Evening of Art & Spirits at the beautiful Bywater Maison Macarty (3820 Burgundy) from 7 – 10pm. For your donation of $20, you receive entry into the event where you can buy artistic creations of local artists, photographers, and jewelers. We will serve light snacks, and, wine, beer, vodka, and whiskey drinks. Immerse yourself in an evening of relaxation, creativity, and beauty.

Friday, November 11, 2016 Dress as your favorite Pop Culture icon and join us at the 38th Annual Howling Success Patron Party & Gala at the Hyatt Regency (601 Loyola Avenue) as they celebrate Pop Culture in style to help support the animals of Louisiana SPCA. Howling Success is the area’s most unique fundraiser and one of our largest tributes to the more than 43,000 animals that come through our doors every year. The Patron Party will be from 7pm - 8:30pm with the gala from 8:30pm – midnight. There will be fabulous food from area restaurants, open bar, marvelous silent auction, specialty acts & live music. For more details about the event or to purchase tickets or tables, please go to www.la-spca.org/howlingsuccess.

Sunday, November 13, 2016

After my crazy birthday surprise trip to Fort Lauderdale, my friends Gary Vandeventer and Elizabeth Bouvier (aka Jeff Mallon) surprised me with another trip to Austin. We left at the crack of dawn on Saturday morning and flew United with a layover in Houston. Gary is a member of the United Club and I have to say if you have never been to one of those clubs in the airport it is worth doing. Open bar, snacks, lots of reading materials, comfortable chairs, private offices areas and a large TV room. We were able to throw back a few bloodies and champagnes before catching our connecting flight. The weather is Austin was amazing. We landed, took a rental car to Jeff’s brother Jarret’s house to drop our bags then headed out to brunch.

We settled on a cute little local chain restaurant called Hyde Park Bar and Grill. It was a family style bistro with a great brunch menu. My favorite was the fried avocado, which seems to be a specialty in this area. After inhaling lunch, a little shopping was in order so we went to a quaint section of town called South Congress which reminds me a lot of Magazine Street in NOLA except smaller. There were little shops, restaurants, boutiques and bars. We stopped in one of the most fantastic costume shops I had ever been in and browsed for quite a while aptly titled Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds.

After a little rest and quick change we went out for the evening. For dinner we chose this lovely restaurant near the theatre called Flour and Vine (I know cute name). The food was contemporary American with an extensive craft cocktail list and several hot waiters. They has a large gay clientele that night which added to the festive atmosphere. My top pick here was their fried avocado with bacon and shrimp, simply divine.

We went to the Zach Theatre next to see a local production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Jeff and Gary had already seen this show on Broadway, but it was totally new to me and it was an outstanding theatrical experience mostly in part to the theatre itself.

They had a talented singer before the show and afterwards turned the lobby into a discotheque. The show itself, although you can tell was not as elaborate as the Broadway production was very entertaining. The soundtrack is fun and poppy with lots of dance classics. We saw the Kylie Minogue version, which is the Australian one. The American version uses songs by Madonna while the Aussie one use Kylie.

Either way still loved the musical, the

over the top costumes (over 200 in the show), dancing and cast. Put it on your list to check out.

Once the show was over, it was time to go play with the boys so we were off to the gay part of town. We stopped at Rain on 4th first. It is a raucous dance club with a nice patio area in the back. The crowd is more on the younger side here, but the music was good. Next up was the famous Oil Can Harry which is a country western bar that caters to all ages. The scene was a little more laid back but the dancers were still packing the dance floor. Our last stop was a new bar called the Iron Bear (I am sure you can imagine what type of bar this is). It is a leather and jeans bar with pool tables, dance floor and patio area. The patrons there ranged the spectrum and it was a nice place to end the night, although I am not sure I enjoy these two a.m. closing rules.

We woke up the next day, packed our stuff and went to Sunday brunch at this Italian restaurant with a beautiful courtyard called Aroma (I know love the names of these places). Great food, mediocre service, but all in all a fun experience with enough champagne.

So we flew back to NOLA after a quick 30 hour adventure in Austin. I love these types of trips, spontaneous, filled with activity and most of all fun.

The next week was my actual birthday on Tuesday and my mom and some friends celebrated at one of my favorite steakhouses in the city, Charlie’s. As always the cuisine was spectacular and they expanded their menu slightly to offer more sides and appetizers. As expected it as a memorable experience. Afterwards, we decided to stop in at Oz to check out their new Boylesque show hosted by the vivacious Trixie Minx. This show is a top notch production that intertwines the sexy male dancers with live singing.

And Trixie is the perfect emcee for the night also performing a few numbers.

The acrobat and the guy on roller skates were my stand out favorites. But the best number was when Trixie Minx performed while a shirtless sexy man crooned a Michael Buble song.

There is a new brunch place on Magazine Street and on Thursday I went to an industry party there. Brick and Spoon is an open friendly restaurant that specializes in beignets, Bloody Marys and Champagne cocktail drinks.

They hosted a little soiree for the hospitality industry to get us acquainted with the space. They are only open for breakfast, brunch and lunch so check them out.

Friday, I had another fun birthday dinner with different friends this time at Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse. You can definitely see a pattern in my dining styles. Anytime you go to a Brennan restaurant it is a treat. From the perfectly cooked steak to the superior

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trodding the boards

by Brian Sands

Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

The Toxic Avenger, The Musical at The Theatre at St. Claude through Oct. 31 Just in time for Halloween, or perhaps the election from Hell, See ’Em On Stage: A Production Company is giving the regional premiere to The Toxic Avenger, The Musical. If you’re looking for a treat, this is it.

Based on Lloyd Kaufman’s shlocky David (Bon Jovi) Bryan’s lyrics rarely rise but successful 1984 movie, Toxic Avenger above such fine poetry as “It’s gonna be a tells the New Jersey-based tale of nerdy blast/To kick your ass,” they get the job Melvin Ferd the Third who’s in love with done and move the story along. And, unlike Sarah the beautiful blind librarian. When many pop-rock musicals (including SEOS’s Melvin uncovers some dirt on the town’s previous effort, Lizzie), you can actually hypocritical Mayor Babs Belgoody, she understand the words here, a credit to the sends her goons after him who plunk him in cast and the band under Ronald Joseph’s a barrel of toxic waste. Voila!—the nerd expert direction. becomes an eco-protecting superhero who Bryan also did the music and if you’re battles evildoers, occasionally ripping a not likely to head out of the theater humhand or arm off of them. (Cue the squirting ming any of his tunes, they’re peppy and blood for the first row “Splatter Zone.”) just right for the knowingly ridiculous mateJoe (Memphis) DiPietro’s book deliv- rial. ers blissful campy fun, and while his and Christopher Bentivegna’s sure-handed

under the gaydar ...from 34 service, this place was a wonderful choice. Saturday was a bittersweet day as a group of friends came together for a celebration of life for Tom “Rona” Conners. It was held at Lafitte’s and several of us wore Easter Bonnets in her memory. Tom was a wonderful supporter of the gay community, active in the gay Mardi Gras scene. He was also King Cake Queen and Easter Grand Marshal, but most of all he was a friend, a mentor and a sounding board for me. I loved our talks and how he seemed to show you how exceptional life is. I am going to miss you my dear friend; heaven just got a little more fabulous. Rest in peace.

I am going to conclude my two weeks here a little early, since I leave on Sunday for Vegas. Can you imagine the stories? Until then stay wicked.

An Interview with Bianca Del Rio Before Bianca won RuPaul’s Drag Race Season, before Hurricane Bianca, before the world tours, he was our wonderfully talented actor, comic and costumer Roy Haylock here in NOLA. As long as I have known Roy, he has always been a witty, kind and generous person who exudes talent. And when he transforms into his popular persona Bianca del Rio, the barbs and the laughs start coming fast and furious.

It is always so incredible when someone from our city makes a positive international name for themselves. It is like the entire city rallies around them, that can be especially said about the wonderful Bianca del Rio. During Season 6, it felt like the entire New Orleans metropolitan gay com-

munity was watching the show, whether it be at a bar, on their IPhones, or hosting private parties at their home, all eyes were glued to Logo. When Bianca brought home the win, it felt like the city won as well.

I had the opportunity to catch up with Bianca by phone for quick interview for Ambush. He was on his tour bus heading to do a show in Milwaukee to another sold out crowd. Bianca will be at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre on Friday, November 4 at 8pm. I asked her how she felt about coming back to New Orleans and performing in this historic venue.

BDR: I feel like I am coming full circle.

It was twenty years ago when I was making costumes for the opera at the Mahalia and now I am headlining there.

Bianca started her Not Today Satan Tour in Australia in May and has been all over the world performing. The US tour is taking her to cities across our country with New Orleans being the second to last stop (Austin in November 9).

Bianca had some amazing words about performing at larger venues. “It gets to be a little nerve wracking to try and fill all those seats, but performing at the bars have given me an incredible training.”

TL: What can people expect from Not

direction is efficient and imaginative never letting the momentum slack. His stylistically spot-on approach and attention to detail unleash all the show’s hilarity. More importantly, he draws out recognizable human emotions from under the script’s comic veneer without which this would be too silly for its own good. At The Theatre at St. Claude, we actually care about Melvin, Sarah, and what happens to them as we laugh at the terrible puns, dopey slapstick, and Mad Magazine humor.

Bentivegna rims the stage with black plastic garbage bags, quite apropos for a musical inspired by waste. Following its introduction in Lizzie, his use of aerosolinduced smoke/fog seems like it might become de rigueur for SEOS productions, but who cares when it’s such a cool effect.

The extremely talented cast of five, all in sync with the Avenger’s requisite gooney style, features two breakout performances.

As Sarah, Elyse McDaniel is absolutely delicious as the wannabe novelist described as “Mother Theresa if she was blind and hot.” I had admired McDaniel in SEOS’ Zanna, Don’t! and Delgado’s Bat Boy, but here she reveals herself to be a daring comic actress enriching Sarah with a throaty voice and a bewitching cluelessness regarding her disability, never even hinting that it might get in her way.

Tender yet tough, and displaying a marvelously powerful voice in her songs, McDaniel evokes a young Carol Burnett, only sexier.

Bringing sharp characterizations to a Today Satan?

BDR: It is basically me bitching about all the things I hate and my experiences from being in the airport to being on television. I have tons of material to discuss. I find talking about these things and my time on Ru Paul to be liberating and cathartic.

TL: Tell me about Hurricane Bianca?

BDR: Hurricane Bianca was a labor of love of my friend Matt Kugelman who works for CBS. We were lucky to get so many celebrities like Margaret Cho, Rachel Dratch, RuPaul and Alan Cumming. It was Matt’s vision and his magic who got these people. It never hurts to ask and see who would be willing to do it. We filmed two summers ago in Texas and we shot everything in 18 days. I was on my worldwide tour and when I had a break I would fly to Texas from Amsterdam. And since I am in almost every scene, especially in drag, that adds to the pressure to get things right the first time. So we were able to get most scenes in 2 or 3 takes. Now I watch it and wish maybe I would have done something different but you make choices quickly when you are in the moment.

TL: So where is home now?

BDR: I have lived in Los Angeles for almost a year now. I love New York, but with flights and delays, I was living most of my life in airports and busses, so it’s just easier.

They have great weather and it is just comfortable.

TL: What is on the horizon for Bianca?

BDR: I will be taking the show to London at the beginning of next year. Currently we have sold out two shows and are adding more. But you know I am always plotting and planning. I do have an exciting secret project I am working on that I will be able to announce before the holidays.

So that was a quick conversation with Roy the man behind Bianca del Rio. For more information on Bianca, go to www.thebiancadelrio.com. Tickets can be found on www.ticketmaster.com.

variety of parts—dimwitted thug, sassy homegirl, a scientist in sexual thrall to the evil mayor, and many more—Tulane senior Luke Halpern proves to be a vital team member smartly calibrating his quick changes to find just the proper temperament for each of his roles. Halpern’s sly Mitch in Rivertown’s 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee didn’t prepare me for his outstanding work in Avenger and I look forward to his future appearances.

The other three, better known Avengers match McDaniel and Halpern’s wellpolished turns.

Without having the benefit of using his face, as it’s encased in a frighteningly ugly full-head mask for most of the show, Kevin Murphy still gives a fully expressive performance as Melvin, aka The Toxic Avenger, aptly conveying “Toxie’s” conflicted emotions. Murphy’s soulfulness allows us to cheer as Melvin blossoms not only into a romantic lead, but the Governor of New Jersey as well, certainly an improvement on the current one.

As the corrupt Mayor who aspires to Chris Christie-hood, two-time Ambie-nominee Janie Heck’s prodigious vocal and comic gifts shine especially when, doubling as Melvin’s bossy mother, she has a snarling duet with the Mayor, running offstage for lightning-fast costume changes until, in a final tour de force, she merely pivots back and forth, delineating each character fantastically.

Eli Timm completes the cast as “White Dude” wonderfully portraying a demure young lesbian, a knuckleheaded cop, a flighty hairdresser and many more. Timm and Halpern (“Black Dude”) may be just two actors but they populate the stage with what seems like hundreds, or at least dozens, of characters. Along with their castmates, they do full justice to Kali Russell’s MTV video-inspired choreography.

With five upcoming performances this weekend, including October 31, The Toxic Avenger is a bootiful way to spend Halloween.

Pictures of Marilyn at The National WWII Museum’s Stage Door Canteen thru Nov. 27 Courtney Boe seems born to play Marilyn Monroe. With her petite figure, open face, pretty yet wholesome mien and platinum blonde hair, not to mention knockout singing, dancing, and acting talents, casting her as the most famously alluring woman of the 20th century is a no-brainer I have always admired Boe from her early days with the Victory Belles to featured roles in On the Air, My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra and Thanks for the Memories: Bob Hope and His All-Star Pacific Tour to her star turn in The Andrews Brothers which prompted me to write, “With her gorgeous voice, it’s been a pleasure to watch her develop over the past few seasons from talented ensemble member to charismatic leading lady.”

So when I heard she’d be playing the lead in Pictures of Marilyn I smiled looking forward to her performance.

She doesn’t disappoint.

In Pictures of Marilyn, a new play with music, Boe is called upon to encapsulate Monroe’s life from her days working in a

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spotlight feature Mr. Louisiana Leather Ross Ransom Sets Haiti Fundraiser On November 2nd, Mr. Louisiana Leather 2017 Ross Ransom, in collaboration with Miss Pageant, Neon Burgundy will be hosting Caribbean Cruising: a fundraiser to benefit those affected by the recent catastrophe in southern Haiti.

The event will be hosted by Cane and Table at 1113 Decatur St from 9pm until midnight. The fundraiser will include cocktail specials, a silent auction and raffle items from local artists, a special limited edition print from Kiernan Dunn, and performances from local drag artists Nicole Lynn Foxx and Neon Burgundy.

All proceeds from the event will be directed to local, on the ground charity organizations in Jeremie, Haiti.

Mr. Louisiana Leather 2017 Ross Ransom

trodding the boards ...from 36 WWII factory as Norma Jeane Mortenson to the formation of Marilyn Monroe Productions in 1955.

It’s clear that Boe has done her homework; she achieves an astonishing recreation of the actresses’s poise and millionwatt smile. She aptly captures Monroe’s flightiness and her ability to manipulate men as well as the famed moment with the white dress from The Seven Year Itch. If she doesn’t quite get Monroe’s breathy etherealness, well, who could?

I just wish that Cavan Hallman’s script had given her more to work with. Monroe was a complicated person whose life has already been probed and dissected on page, stage and screen. If you’re going to examine it yet again, you ought to have something new and vital to say about it, or at least present it in a unusual or captivating format.

Hallman does none of these. Episodic in nature, Pictures of Marilyn chugs along giving us Monroe’s relationships with Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller, her fights with studio boss Darryl Zanuck, and her business relationship with photographer Milton Greene, seemingly one of the few decent men in her life.

It’s not a bad introduction to Monroe, but rarely rises above Marilyn 101.

Hallman interpolates songs throughout the show. Some (Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend and I Wanna Be Loved By You) appropriately come from Monroe’s canon.

Others (Happiness Is a Thing Called Joe and They All Laughed) fitly comment on the action. But some (Jezebel particularly) seem

strangely shoe-horned in with no real connection to Monroe.

In some passages, Hallman seems to want the show be a surreal take on Monroe’s life, which could be interesting, but then he reverts to straightforward narrative.

Given the show’s title and that Monroe was one of the most-photographed women

in the world, I thought that Hallman might use a series of her iconic images as jumping off points to tell her story but that never develops.

It’s unfortunate that Hallman also directed since, as is often the case in such a situation, a separate pair of more objective eyes might’ve aided him in better shaping his story.

Aside from Boe, the seven-member cast do their best to bring to life Hallman’s

two-dimensional characters. Joe DiMaggio may have been little more than a traditionally macho man when he was first married to Monroe (apparently, a more mellow DiMaggio came back into her life later), but it allows Edward Simon limited room to interpret the Yankee great. Kevin Rothlisberger’s Arthur Miller fares slightly better eliciting applause after one truly dramatic scene with Monroe.

Mike Spara comes off best as Greene, a happily married man who genuinely looked out for Monroe’s interests. (Greene and Monroe later parted ways but that’s another story.)

The National WWII Museum is to be commended for expanding its programming and working with local artists to develop new stage works. Though not perfect, you may want to see Pictures of Marilyn as it’ll mark the final appearances of Courtney Boe there (she’s now studying for a career in interior design). Courtney, we salute you!

The dinner that is being served by The American Sector before the show is also worthy of a salute. Beet Salad with nicely diced beets, arugula, bleu cheese, toasted almonds, and a tangy citrus vinaigrette dressing starts off the meal on a healthy and refreshing note.

Orange Glazed Salmon with cous cous, spinach and butternut squash was absolutely scrumptious, a lovely blending of flavors and textures. Make sure you hold on to some bread to sop up any leftover portion of the accompanying citrus gastrique.

I had only one yummy bite of the Grilled Pork Loin with roasted sweet potato, charred Brussels sprouts and spiced bacon jus, but my companion assured me that the entire dish was tender and tasty.

A delectable Caramel Apple Cheesecake with candied pecans and cinnamon whipped cream completes the meal in fine fashion. Gentlemen may prefer blondes, but I prefer whatever The American Sector’s new Executive Chef Brooke Foster is serving!

out front Louisiana All Star: New Orleans Leads the Way in LGBTQ Equality At a time when many states have failed to extend LGBTQ-inclusive laws and policies, New Orleans is stepping up to ensure that all citizens are treated equally, according to a report issued by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC), the educational arm of the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) civil rights organization.

HRC’s 2016 Municipal Equality Index (MEI) shows that around the country cities are fueling momentum for LGBTQ equality — and often are doing so in states that still don’t have LGBTQ-inclusive nondiscrimination laws at the state level.

In Louisiana, New Orleans earned over 85 points on the 2016 MEI despite hailing from a state without LGBTQ-inclusive statewide non-discrimination laws. Across the country, 37 cities like these set a standard of LGBTQ inclusiveness with exemplary, best-practice policies such as local nondiscrimination laws, providing transgenderinclusive health benefits for city employees, and offering LGBTQ-inclusive city services.

Shining like a beacon of hope, New Orleans earned one of HRC’s 37 MEI “All Star” designations. MEI All Stars are cities nationwide that are excelling by advancing LGBTQ equality without relying on state law. This year, New Orleans earned 89 points. Louisville earned 91 points last year.

The average score for cities in Louisiana is 32 out of 100 points, which falls below the national average of 55.

The cities researched for the MEI include the 50 state capitals, the 200 most populous cities in the country, the five

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lez talk

by Misti Gaither Email: Mistimichelleates@gmail.com

Samiel Kalin The majority of us enjoy a good story about someone who, against all odds, survives tragedy and defeat. It gives us hope that when we are in situations of hopelessness and despair, we can relate and become a survivor, too. I could elaborate on stories such as “The Unsinkable” Molly Brown and other survivors of disasters. But, I want to tell you about a story that is a little closer to home. I want to tell you about the inspiring story of a true survivor, my friend, Samiel Kalin.

Samiel Kalin is the author of the autobiographical book, "First Stone: A Gay Daughter’s Survival in a Religious World". From the moment you read the first sentence, you are drawn into a world that is filled with pain, rejection, religion and self awareness. It is these ingredients that are the fodder that makes Samiel Kalin’s life a testament to those who have struggled with rejection of family clouded by the deception of religion.

Sam’s early years were filled with conflicting emotions for her father. A man of God who did good things for

out front ...from 37 largest cities in every state, the cities home to each state’s two largest public universities, and an equal mix of 75 of the nation’s large, mid-size and small municipalities with the highest proportion of same-sex couples.

“This year, dozens of cities across the nation showed they are willing to stand up for LGBTQ people in their communities even when some state governments are not,” said HRC President Chad Griffin.

“This builds on a trend we have long observed: that local governments are at the forefront of our fight for equality. Unfortunately, our opponents have witnessed this progress too, and in recent years, antiLGBTQ lawmakers have pushed spiteful legislation aimed at pre-empting local protections. That’s why it’s so important that we continue to not only fight for equality at the state and local levels, but to enact comprehensive federal protections for LGBTQ people under the Equality Act.” “Despite another year of legislative attacks on LGBTQ equality, we are not merely holding our ground; we also continue to make significant gains across the country,” said Rebecca Isaacs, Executive Director of the Equality Federation Institute. “The opportunity for further progress is huge, and we are proud to partner with HRC on the Municipal Equality Index, a powerful roadmap for elected officials and community advocates who want to continue down the path to full equality.”

Since the MEI’s debut in 2012, the number of cities earning perfect scores has more than quintupled, and today at least 24 million people now live in cities that have

many people, but at home he reigned with an iron fist. His display of goodness and godliness in public was tarnished in his daughter’s mind as her mom and then Sam would become the recipients of physical, emotional and verbal abuse. Maybe because of some similarities in our backgrounds, Samiel and I connected on this level as kindred spirits.

Sam had always been attracted to females, but as she was raised in such a controlled environment, she had no idea that there was such a thing as lesbianism. Sam began her journey of more comprehensive, transgender-inclusive non-discrimination laws than their state or the federal government. And cities that have been rated all five years of the MEI have improved their scores by about 20 points over that time.

Progress on transgender equality has been particularly noteworthy in cities across America this year, continuing a positive trend that the MEI has tracked — and encouraged — since 2012. Transgenderinclusive healthcare benefits are offered to employees of 86 municipalities this year — up from 66 in 2015 and 5 in 2012 — and the growth of cities offering those benefits to their employees outpaces the growth in the number of cities rated.

For the first time this year, the MEI deducted points from the scores of cities that have non-discrimination protections containing carve-outs prohibiting individuals from using public facilities consistent with their gender identity. It also created a new category of points to recognize cities that are offering transgender-specific city services.

The full report, including detailed scorecards for every city, as well as a searchable database, is available online at www.hrc.org/mei.home, at work and in every community.

Gallier House Presents 19th-century Funereal and Mourning Tours The Gallier Historic House Museum, 1132 Royal Street, is offering specialized tours that interpret post funeral habits of the

freedom and self expression when she left home after graduation and started to attend UNO. She was then able to meet like minded individuals who were quick to take her under their wings. It was at this time, she felt for the first time that she finally belonged. Sam became acquainted fast with the French Quarter and the night life that envelopes so many of us with its lure and charm. It was there she met and became friends with different fixtures of our history such as, Necha Benoit “Lady Magic”, Charlene Schneider and more.

The story of Samiel Kalin doesn’t end nor begin in the bars of the Quarter.

She eventually moved to Dallas and became one of the pioneers in the fight against AIDS through her work at the AIDS Resource Center. It was there she saw first hand and up close the devastation the AIDS epidemic had on the LGBT community. And just as she had always done before, whenever there was someone in need, Sam stepped up and did what needed to be done.

Even though she had a new life in Dallas, Sam could not get New Orleans out of her mind. She would occasionally visit to see old friends and would sneak home to see her mom whose health was fading. This tug of war with Sam’s heartstrings went on for years, until recently Sam decided she wanted to be back in New Orleans and make it her home once again. She is currently working on her second book which will continue where "First Stone" ended.

There is so much I could write about concerning Samiel’s journey and progress in her life. I suggest you read "First Stone" so that you will learn first hand, what a fighter and survivor she is.

To purchase "First Stone", contact Samiel at samielkalin@yahoo.com.

The saying, “you can’t go home again” has resonated through out time as an old wives’ tale that has truth somewhat intertwined. Home is not 19th-century through Nov. 5. Tours are offered weekdays (closed Wednesdays) at 10 and 11am, noon, 1 and 2pm; and Saturdays (closed Sundays) at noon, 1, 2 and 3pm.

Grief descended upon the Gallier household in October 1866, when news arrived that patriarch James Gallier, Sr., and his second wife drowned at sea aboard the S.S. Evening Star. The passenger steamship, destined for New Orleans from New York, sank in a late-season hurricane off the coast of Georgia.

The Gallier Historic House Museum will be in mourning as they commemorate the death of the senior Galliers. During the Victorian era, almost every aspect of everyday life, from clothes to china, were changed to reflect the family’s grief. The front entry of the home was swathed in black crepe, as were mirrors and the deceased’s portrait.

Clocks were stopped at the hour of death, and even children’s toys reflected the solemn mood. Displays of distinctive funeral attire and many Victorian mourning articles will provide visitors to the Gallier House

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Welcome Home, Samiel Kalin.. it’s good to have you back! with an uncommon look into the past.

For admission prices, group tour appointments and to purchase tickets in advance, please visit hgghh.org.

On Wednesday, Oct. 26, at 6pm John Magill, renowned local historian, will deliver a lecture at the Gallier House on the “Artistry of Death: The Cult of Mourning in the Nineteenth-Century South.” Using vivid illustrations and artifacts, Magill will offer insight on the elaborate tombs, death notices, decorative arts, clothing, and jewelry that protocol and fashion dictated in the era of the Galliers’ misfortune. The lecture is free and open to the public. For reservations and more information, please email rsvp@hgghh.org.

Gallier House consulted with New Orleans historian Sally Asher to construct a tour that includes information about the Evening Star. Asher researched the shipwreck and the Galliers’ deaths as part of her two recently published books, Hope & New Orleans: A History of Crescent City Street Names (2014) and Stories from the St. Louis Cemeteries (2015).

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Show, Stars, Celebrities, Birthdays, DJs... ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Miss Cie

Celebration of Life for Tom"Rona" Conners @ Cafe Lafitte in Exile ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Rip Naquin

Mag's 940

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The Page

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Autour de la Ville ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Paul Melancon, Rip Naquin, Darwin Reed, Jeremy Weinberg

The Corner Pocket

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