Ambush Magazine Volume 36 Issue 10

THE OFFICIAL GAY MAGAZINE OF THE GULF SOUTH Celebrating LGBTQ Life, Music & Culture Since 1982 A BI-WEEKLY PUBLICATION

VOLUME 36 ISSUE 10

TUESDAY, MAY 8, 2018

www.AMBUSHMAG.com

Happy Mother’s Day & Bayou Boogaloo

JUNE IS PRIDE Birmingham, AL June 1-10 Alexandria (Cenla), LA June 1-3 New Orleans, LA June 8-10

Baton Rouge, LA June 16 Pensacola, FL June 16-23 Biloxi, MS June 30

The "Official Pride Guide" prints on June 5, 2018 covering Prides throughout the Gulf Coast. The deadline to submit advertisements is May 29, 2018. For details, contact Ambush Magazine at info@ambushpublishing.com.

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The “Official” Dish

by Frank Pizzolato, Publisher Email: frank@ambushpublishing.com

First and foremost this week, PLEASE remember the fundraising activity for BELLE REVE being spearheaded by Monica Synclaire-Kennedy.

She is working very hard to raise funds and/or much needed supplies for the folks at Belle Reve. Single sheets, pillows, and toiletries are being collected at The Golden Lantern. Any help will be much appreciated.

As we look forward to Monday, after an extended post-election “transition period,” New Orleans is anticipating the start of a new administration.

While every change in “management”

of the City brings new hope and a renewed excitement, this year is viewed with even more possibilities, as the first woman assumes the Mayor’s office in the 300-year history of New Orleans.

The challenges facing Mayor Cantrell are great; we have every hope that her experience and tenacity can help her to rise to the challenge. We wish her every good wish for a successful administration.

We learned this week that a longtime advocate for the LGBT in City Hall will be leaving his post as Chair of The Human Relations Commission.

Inside this Issue of Ambush NOPD Officers Become First Same-Sex Couple to Get Promoted Together in the Department

6

Sports

7-9

2018 Baton Rouge Pride set for June 16

10

Celebration of Life Bar Crawl Planned for Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain

12

Pride Side

12

Drag Brunch Sky Bar At The Reef Biloxi on April 29, 2018

13

Snap Paparazzi: NOAGE Meeting

14

Tricentennial Profiles in History: Norbert Rillieux

14

Snap Paparazzi: Oz New Orleans

15

SIPPS Bar Gulf Port: Kameron Michaels from RuPauls’ Drag Race

16

Under the Gaydar: New Orleans Hot Happenings

17

Book Review: The Rest of It: Hustlers, Cocaine, Depression, and Then Some, 1976-1988

21

LGBT Owned & Friendly Business Directory

22-23

Party Down

24-25

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

25

Trodding the Boards

26

Snap Paparazzi: Kocktail Brunch Photos

29

Moments in Gay New Orleans History: The Glory Days of N. Rampart Street

30

Commentary by Frank Perez

31

Ambush Publishing’s Gay Easter Parade Raises $13,082.66 for Food for Friends

31

Loving Fearlessly

32

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

32

NOAGE Membership Party and Elections

33

A Community within Communities: How can we love those that we hate?

34

Gulf South LGBTQ Entertainment & Travel Guide Since 1982 New Orleans, Louisiana info@ambushpublishing.com

Larry Bagneris has told us that he will not continue in that capacity. Larry has been active in New Orleans politics as far back as I can remember; he has served the LGBT Community well. We wish him well and I know he will always be around to help and advice, because as always, he is first and foremost an “out and proud New Orleanian.” He deserves many thanks for his tireless work on behalf of the LGBT community through the years.

As New Orleans looks forward to a great 300th anniversary celebration, we are deeply troubled by the signing, in Washington of the Executive Order titled “Establishment of a White House Faith and Opportunity Initiative.” Many of the LGBT watch dog groups fear this is the first step in an effort to undermine the protections which have been hard fought and won across the country under guise of “religious freedom”. Basically setting up a pathway for persons of “deeply held religious beliefs” to refuse service, to fail to recognize marriages, to not grant full benefits to couples, and the list goes on and on, as long as these actions can be based on some “religious belief.”

Several states have passed or attempted to pass such legislation, which could offer support for such on the Federal Level. The net effect is to create a “second Class” of citizenship for LGBT members, or frankly any person or group with whom the “religious belief” folks have a problem with. When this is considered in the context of the hardline conservative judges Trump is putting in place, there would be no help coming from the courts in this matter. This is truly time to be afraid.

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Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 • Texas-Florida ANNUAL READERSHIP OVER 1M+ 260,000+ Print/780,000+ Online Official Gay Easter Parade Guide© Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide© Official Gay New Orleans Guide© Official Pride Guide© Official Southern Decadence Guide© Email: info@ambushpublishing.com CIRCULATION Alabama - Mobile; Florida - Pensacola; Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell; Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi STAFF PUBLISHER Frank Pizzolato DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Reed Wendorf EDITOR Brian Sands CONTRIBUTORS Brian Sands, Tony Leggio, Frank Pizzolato, Brian Rivas-Davi, Elisa Cool, John Harper, Persana Shoulders, Felicia Phillips, Frank Perez, Rev. Bill Terry, Pastor Allie Rowland, Davis Walden, Rodney Thoulion, Kara Coley, & Crescent City Sports LOCAL AD SALES Reed Wendorf reed@ambushpublishing.com Jim Tomeny jim@ambushpublishing.com NATIONAL AD SALES Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Ambush Magazine is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush Publishing. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 5pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: info@ambushpublishing.com. 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 Magazine. ©1982-2018 AMBUSH PUBLISHING LLC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS & PHOTOS.

4 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

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NOPD Officers Become First Same-Sex Couple to Get Promoted Together in the Department

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NEW ORLEANS – NOPD Sgt. Tyra Pruitt and Sgt. Debra Normand became the first same-sex married couple to be promoted together in the history of the New Orleans Police Department.

Chief Michael Harrison made a commitment to hold another promotions ceremony for four officers who were initially out of town when they found out they were being promoted at the department’s promotional ceremony last week. Chief Harrison and members of the NOPD held a special ceremony for those four officers on Fri-

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Saints rookie minicamp trivia and underdogs to watch

by Rene Nadeau, Crescent City Sports

Here’s a quiz to test how well you know your New Orleans Saints: (1) How many former LSU players have worn the Black and Gold?

Answer- 30 John Wood (1973), Willie Williams (1994), Malcolm Scott (1987), Nicky Savoie (1997), Steve Rogers (1975), Remi Prudhomme (1971-’72), Mike Morgan (1969-’70), Earl Leggett (1967-’68), Dave McCormick (’67-’68), Eric Martin (1985-’93), Mike Mayes (1989), Greg Jackson (1996), Tommy Hodson (1995-’96), Dalton Hilliard (1986-’93), Devery Henderson (2004’12), Andy Hamilton (1975), Earl Gros (1970), Skyler Green (2008), Howard Green (2003-’04), Randall Gay (2008’10), Hokie Gajan (1982-’85), Matt Flynn (2015), Karl Dunbar (1993), Warren Capone (1976), Brett Bech (1996-’99), Kendrick Allen (2003), Jim Taylor (1967), Eddie Kennison (1999), Garland Jean Baptiste (1987), Tommy Morel (1969).

William Clapp is ninth LSU player drafted by the Saints (Devery Henderson, Al Woods, Nicky Savoie, Michael Mayes, Dalton Hilliard, Hokie Gajan, Steve Rogers and Tommy Morel).

(2) Who was the last native New Orleanian before Will Clapp who was drafted by the Saints?

Answer-Tommy Morel (1969 in the 11th round) played at Jesuit and LSU. (3) How many former Tulane players suited up for the Saints?

Answer-Seven James Campen (1987-’88), Tim Carter (2001), Rusty Chambers (1975’76), P.J. Franklin (1999), Rick Kingrea (1973-’78), Marvin Lewis (1982), Mike Walker (1971).

Also, five other ex-Green Wave players were drafted but did not play with Saints – Tommy Thibodaux (1974), Charlie Hall (1975), Steve Barrios (1972), Rusty Lachaussee (1972) and Bart Graves (1971).

(4) New Orleans has become Ohio State south. How many former Buckeyes are currently on the 2018 roster?

Answer- Seven.

J.T. Barrett, Vonn Bell, Kurt Coleman, Jake Stoneburner, Marshon Lattimore, Michael Thomas and Ted Ginn, Jr. (5) Which is the next school behind Ohio State with the most players on the current roster?

Answer- SMU with six (Chris Banjo, Josh LeRibeus, Zach Line, Sterling Moore, Thomas Morstead and Zach Woods) (6) How many New Orleans natives are on the current roster?

Answer- Three (Will Clapp, Arthur Malet and Royce LaFrance) (7) Only three numbers in Saints history have been worn by just one

player and no one else. What were those jersey numbers?

0- Obert Logan (1967), 00- Ken Burrough (1970) and 8 Archie Manning.

(8) The Saints have a player on the current roster who are part of a rare trio of brothers playing in the NFL. Who are they?

Running back Trey Edmunds has two brothers who were selected in the 1st round of the 2018 NFL Draft – Tremaine Edmunds (Bills) and Terrell Edmunds (Steelers). Also, recent Saints wide receiver Corey Fuller has a pair of siblings playing cornerback for other teams – Kyle Fuller (Bears) and Kendall Fuller (Chiefs). Another interesting note, all six of these individuals spent part or all of their college football careers at Virginia Tech.

The other trifecta of brothers in the NFL comes from the Watt family – J.J. Watt (Texans ), Derek Watt (Chargers) and T.J. Watt (Steelers).

9-The Saints have a former LSU signee quarterback on the current roster. Who is it?

Jeremy Liggins was a 270 pound quarterback signed in the 2012 class as a 4 star prospect. He never made it to campus, opting for NE Miss. JUCO where he played quarterback and defensive end. Eventually, Liggins made his way to Ole Miss as a tight end, Wildcat QB and offensive tackle. He signed with the 49ers on the practice squad in 2017. He is now a 6-foot-3, 315 pound defensive tackle prospect for the Saints in 2018.

10- What jersey number has been worn by more Saints players than any other?

Answer- No. 86 worn by 33 players throughout team history, and it currently belongs to tight end John Phillips.

HEY ROOKIE Everybody loves the underdog, the person who can beat the odds when it appears everything is stacked against them. Well, here are a few undrafted free agents invited to attend the Saints’ rookie minicamp next weekend.

What might set these apart is that they all held offers from numerous other NFL teams, but felt that New Orleans would be a good opportunity to make the league. One or two of these may sneak into the fray when cam begins later this summer.

TE Nate Wozniak (6-9, 270) Minnesota: He will be the biggest tight end invited to Saints camp since 1976 when Hank Stram brought his tight end Morris Stroud (6-10, 255) with him from the Super Bowl IV champion Chiefs.

Stroud grabbed 54 passes for 977 yards and seven touchdowns during his KC days. Sean Payton would love similar results from Wozniak, a three-

year starter for the Golden Gophers.

He is not going to scare the defense as a receiver, but is a dependable blocker. The Atlanta Falcons liked him a lot.

The Saints were one of 15 teams trying to secure him as a free agent. He may eventually get a look at offensive tackle.

TE Deon Yelder (6-4, 255) Western Kentucky: This oneyear wonder in college represented himself well at the Senior Bowl.

He runs a 4.72 with a 10′ long jump.

Yelder only started his senior season as the beneficiary of a coaching and scheme change, and he flashed some skills by snaring 52 balls for 688 yards and eight scores. He is very good as a run blocker and loves special teams.

He could be a practice squad prospect or more at a position lacking a young receiving weapon.

OT/OG Jeremy Irwin (6-5, 306) Colorado: He is a the youngest of a set of triplets (brothers John and Sean). A three-year starter (36 starts for the Buffaloes, Irwin played a sixth season on a medical hardship due to a torn MCL as a junior and broken bone in his foot as a sophomore. He has great character,

voted Colorado team captain twice.

RB D’Ernest Johnson (5-10, 208) South Florida. He produced 4,186 yards all purpose . In 2017 he tallied 745 yards (4.2 yds.) and 7 TD’s. He had a good showing in the East-West game. A couple of things that caught the Saints’ staff eye, Johnson is a superb special teamer and had 72 career receptions for 884 yards, averaging 12.2 yards per.

CB Linden Stephens (6-0, 193) Cincinnati: With outstanding 4.38 speed, he recorded six interceptions and broke up 15 passes. Stephens has a 34″ vertical with 20 reps on bench press test. That is great athleticism Stephens also shows good fundamental tackling ability. Very aggressive, he could be a special teams dynamo as a gunner on kicking teams. His dad Mac played linebacker for the Vikings (1991) and Jets (1990)..

The Saints have a former LSU signee quarterback on the current roster.

Who is it?

This article was originally published

by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

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AMBUSH

SEC scheduling ploys in women’s sports go over the top

by Lenny Vangilder, Crescent City Sports

Thanks to successful football programs and ridiculously large television contracts, the 14 members of the Southeastern Conference reap some significant financial benefits.

But recently, two SEC women’s programs used some of those dollars to pull some interesting maneuvers, all in a quest to become – or remain – eligible for the postseason.

Go back to last week, when the Arkansas women’s tennis team made a run through the SEC women’s tennis tournament in Knoxville, Tennessee, winning three matches before losing to Florida in the semifinals.

That loss left the Razorbacks at 10-16, and with a record under .500, the opportunity for reaching the postseason was seemingly over.

Or not.

Arkansas stopped on the way home in Nashville and paid Tennessee

State University $15,000 to play six – count ’em, six – matches in one day.

The Razorbacks won all six, though the final one was close, and all of a sudden, their record was 16-16.

The NCAA announced their field of 64 on Tuesday, and even though the Hogs had gotten eligible and were ranked No. 29 nationally, presumably, wiser heads prevailed and they were not in the bracket.

The women’s bracket does include a pair of Louisiana schools in LSU, which will meet Tulsa in the opening round in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and Southland Conference champ McNeese, which faces No. 6 seed Texas in Austin.

Then there is the case of Missouri’s softball program, traditionally one of the best in the country.

The Tigers are hovering just above .500 and, in the midweek prior to its fi-

nal series of the regular season, had a doubleheader scheduled at Wichita State Wednesday – a good non-conference test against a team with an RPI of 31.

But rather than play, Missouri paid $5,000 to buy its way out of the games, and instead of not playing on its SEC bye weekend, it added a doubleheader against an Arkansas-Pine Bluff team with a 15-25 overall record.

Now, even if the Tigers are swept at home this weekend by Florida and lose in the first round of the SEC Tournament next week – which, by the way, is in Columbia – Missouri can finish no worse than 28-28.

Coaches should do everything in their power to put their student-athletes in the best position to succeed.

But these two instances are clearly over the top.

The Arkansas ploy certainly jeop-

ardized the health and welfare of the players, who not only were being asked to play an unheard of number of matches in one day, but to do so after playing matches each of the previous four days in their conference tournament.

The Missouri ploy just sends a bad message – if our team is in jeopardy of losing, let’s just not play and write a check to the other school.

Maybe that SEC slogan of the last couple of years, “It Just Means More,” needs to add a word at the end – “Money.”

This article was originally published

by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

Tulane’s Melvin Frazier forgoes final year of eligibility for NBA Draft

by Adam Miller, Crescent City Sports

NEW ORLEANS – Five weeks after initially declaring for the 2018 NBA Draft, Tulane men’s basketball junior swingman Melvin Frazier has elected to forgo his final year of collegiate eligibility and hire representation before

beginning his professional career.

An Avondale, Louisiana native, Frazier is ranked as the No. 30 overall prospect in this year’s draft according to ESPN.com and has been slotted as a first-round selection in several edi-

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tions of the site’s mock draft. He is also one of just a handful of underclassmen that has received an invitation to the NBA Draft Combine, which will take place May 16-20 in Chicago.

“Mel has always dreamed of playing in the NBA and has worked very hard to get to this point,” head coach Mike Dunleavy Sr. said. “I enjoyed coaching him and watching his game improve over the last two years. I wish him the best and look forward to following his professional career.”

During his breakout campaign in 2017-18 with the Green Wave, Frazier was named American Athletic Conference Most Improved Player of the Year and an all-league second team pick.

He also garnered NABC All-District Second Team honors and Louisiana Sports Writers Association First Team recognition, while being named MVP of the Jamaica Classic and The American’s Player of the Week once.

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For the year, Frazier scored 20 or more points 10 times and posted four double-doubles. He led the Green Wave in field goal percentage (.556), scoring (15.9 per game) and steals (65) and was second in rebounds (5.6) and third in assists (2.9) per contest.

His 2.2 steals per game led all players in the conference and ranked 19th nationally.

In 94 games and 71 starts over the last three seasons at Tulane, Frazier amassed 997 points on over 48 percent shooting from the field, 413 rebounds, 156 assists and 152 steals.

The draft lottery will take place May 15 and the 2018 NBA Draft will be held June 21 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

This article was originally published

by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

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8 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Saints Draft Review: Needs addressed early, often

by Al Dupuy, Crescent City Sports

Boston Scott is an undersized running back coming off of a terrific senior season at Louisiana Tech.

When the picks were all made on the first night of the 2018 NFL Draft, 22 of the 32 first round selections were underclassmen. There were 81 total underclassman drafted in the seven rounds.

I like the first and last Saints picks the best while the five selections in between are developmental hopefuls.

Marcus Davenport, the physical specimen out of Texas San Antonio, comes at a steep price, but defensive end pass rushers are hard to obtain.

He was the second- best pass rushing defensive end in this draft. His up-side is off the charts.

The Saints seemed to draft for need/scheme fit instead of taking the best player available. I think they really needed a wide receiver, and Tre’Quan Smith out of UCF taken in round three has talent but I didn’t like the way he was jammed at the line at the Senior Bowl. He is currently not very effective in press coverage. Smith does run well after the catch, coming off a big season with just under 20 yards per grab for the unbeaten Golden Knights.

Rick Leonard, the offensive tackle from Florida State taken in round four,

looks like a bit of a reach. He is athletic and very tall at 6-foot-7 plus he has the frame to add more bulk. I thought I may have had him rated too low as the 31st tackle overall but checking other draft sites and analysts, the best I could find was rated 27th best. Most rated him as a free agent but I though he was a sixth round talent.

A former defensive lineman still learning the position, Leonard lacks consistency which is to be expected. A developmental prospect, he lacks body control and balance to play regularly at tackle as a rookie. However, he could be used as a third tight end.

I like 5th round selection Natrell Jamerson, who played both cornerback and safety for Wisconsin. He is fast (4.40 in the 40 yard dash) and versatile. The Saints will look at him as a cornerback prospect but expect his first big contribution to the team to come in core special teams work.

Drafting for need again, New Orleans tabbed another corner – Kamrin Moore of Boston College – with the first of their 6th round picks. He will need to make it on special teams and lacks the speed to play outside at corner. Moore looks like an inside nickel cornerback or perhaps an off-ball safety convert.

The fans should like running back

Boston Scott, drafted in round six out of Louisiana Tech. I projected him as an undrafted free agent due to being only 5-6 and 200 pounds, but he is exciting and elusive. If he can return punts and kickoffs, he may secure a spot on the team. Scott catches the ball well and has been a good receiver in college. The Zachary High product also protects the football well, but he may have problems blocking and picking up bigger blitzers in the NFL. Will Clapp, a center and offensive guard out of Brother Martin and LSU, was someone I thought would go higher. He is versatile and a solid run blocker who played consistently well against top SEC talent. He needs some technique work, but Clapp again fills a need for the Saints who lost Senio Kelemete in free agency.

This Saints draft looked to me like it had a lot of Sean Payton’s fingerprints on it and not as much of front office executive Jeff Ireland’s. Needs on the back half of the roster were clearly targeted.

I have faith in my ability to scout and rank players but we know it is far

from an exact science. The Saints have done well of late in the draft so I have to trust their thinking this year as well.

Across the entire draft, here are players that stand out as one who fell and were selected considerably lower than projected: Offensive tackle Connor Williams (Texas), projected round 1, drafted early round 2 Running back Derrius Guice (LSU), projected round 1, drafted late round 2 Defensive end Arden key (LSU) projected early in round 1 (last year), drafted round 3 Wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown (Notre Dame), projected round 2-3, drafted round 6 Wide receiver Deon Cain (Clemson) projected round 3-4, drafted round 6 Defensive end Josh Sweat Florida State), projected round 2-3, drafted round 4.

This Saints draft looked to me like it had a lot of Sean Payton’s fingerprints on it

This article was originally published

by Crescent City Sports. For the most comprehensive sports coverage in the Big Easy, visit crescentcitysports.com.

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www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 9

2018 Baton Rouge Pride set for June 16

by Christoper Bradford, Co-Chairman, Baton Rouge Pride Plans are in place for a great celebration when the twelfth annual Baton Rouge Pride Fest takes place on June 16, 2018.

The 2018 Baton Rouge Pride Fest is set for noon until 7pm inside the Raising Canes River Center Arena and Riverview Room located in downtown Baton Rouge. There will be a great lineup for the community resource fair, an entire afternoon of entertainment and our second annual ARTSFEST in partnership with LEUR magazine!

“Each year, Baton Rouge Pride strives to be better than the last,” says Christopher Bradford, co-chair of the Baton Rouge Pride team. “We aim to

be an inclusive event for all members of the LGBT+ community in South Louisiana and hope for even more participates than in previous years. We have great entertainers set to take the stage and are partnering with more local businesses than ever.”

Organizers have invited back all 70-plus nonprofit organizations, groups and businesses that participated in last year’s community resource fair, and continue to seek any others interested in participating.

Entertainment for the event will be hosted by Baton Rouge’s own legendary Diva Miranda Mann, as well as other local favorites from the Krewe of

Divas. In addition, the Austin Babtist Women will be special guest entertainers along with many more.

“If you missed the Austin Babtist Women last year, you really MUST see them this year! And, if you have seen them, you know they will definitely make you laugh,” says John Deshotel, co-chairman of the Baton Rouge Pride team.

The events also will include the traditional blessing of relationships conducted by Metropolitan Community Church of Baton Rouge, and other supportive clergy members, as well as the recognition of this year’s Grand Marshal of Baton Rouge Pride.

For more details of Baton Rouge Pride Fest and to stay up to date on their upcoming fundraisers throughout the year, visit www.BRPride.org or on Facebook or Instagram @BRPride.

To volunteer to help with planning or to find out ways your group or organization can become involved, visit that site or phone (225) 776-2092. You can register online at www.BRPride.org/ Volunteer.

Contact: Christopher Bradford at (225) 776-2092 or contactus@brpride. org

Classic New Orleans Arts & Crafts Style Broadmoor Home 4316 S. Roman St. ∙ 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1462 SF ∙ $349,900 Highlights include hardwood floors, cofferred ceilings, screened front porch, lush fenced back yard, ample off street parking including a garage.

This home is located just one block from the Napoleon Ave. walking path. +1 504-777-1773 ∙ Michael.Styles@evusa.com

ENGEL&VÖLKERS MICHAEL STYLES

Engel & Völkers New Orleans ∙ +1 504-875-3555 ∙ neworleans@evusa.com 722 Martin Behrman Ave., Metairie, LA 70005 ©2018 Engel & Völkers. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Licensed in Louisiana.

10 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Savour * Sip * Social www.GayMardiGras.com 路 www.GayEasterParade.com 路 May 8 - 21, 2018 路 The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com 路 11

Celebration of Life Bar Crawl Planned for Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain A Celebration of Life Bar Crawl for Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain will occur on Saturday, May 19. The celebration will include stops at five bars where the family and friends of Rip and Marsha will share reminiscences. Friends of Rip and Marsha and readers of Ambush are welcome to join the crawl in this celebration of two figures who shaped the LGBT community in New Orleans for four decades.

Naquin and Delain met outside a Bourbon Street bar in 1973, moved in together in Baton Rouge, and launched Ambush Magazine in 1982 before moving to New Orleans in 1985. Their same-sex domestic partnership was the first in New Orleans when it was registered in 1993. Naquin and Delain were married in New York in 2013, on their 40th anniversary together. From 1986 until Naquin’s death, the Ambush offices were located on the first floor of 828 Bourbon St., with the proprietors’ residence on the second and third floors. Legendary parties took place at the 1830s “Ambush Mansion,” especially during Carnival. Social events at the residence were often occasions to raise money for charity. In August 2015, for example, a Magnolia Cotillion celebrating the couple’s second

wedding anniversary raised money for Southern Decadence and its charities: the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, the Louisiana Equality Foundation and PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) New Orleans Scholarship Fund. Over the decades, the couple raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for a wide range of charities. The couple also founded the Krewe of Queenateenas and the Gay Easter Parade. Naquin and Delain were two of the five Grand Marshals of Southern Decadence in 2015.

The crawl will start at 1:00 and includes the following stops: 1:00 The Double Play 1:45 Grand Pre’s 2:30 The Golden Lantern 3:15 Oz 4:00 Café Lafitte in Exile

Pride Side

by Pride New Orleans The New Orleans Pride Festival is gearing up to be the biggest and best yet! There will be more than 30 events taking place over the weekend of June 8-10 as we celebrate 300 Years: History + Diversity = One Community.

Events kick off on Thursday, June 7th with CrescentCare’s Dining Out For Life event. This year, over 50 restaurants are participating in the event to raise funds for the Food For Friends program and all you have to do is go out to eat. After dinner, head over to the Phoenix for the Cellblock 13LA Underwear Party.

Friday, June 8th is the New Orleans Pride Welcome Party sponsored by Crystal Head Vodka at Good Friends from 6-9pm followed by Pride Glow: Presented by Flame NOLA. Glow will be held at One Eyed Jacks from 9pm2am with LE1F, Delish Da Goddess, Bouffant Bouffant, Father Figure, DJ Ryan Tiffin, and more!

Saturday, June 9th kicks off with PrideFest presented by The Phoenix.

PrideFest takes place on Rampart St. between Elysian Fields and Marigny St. There will be LGBTQ organization vendor booths, food, drinks, and live entertainment with Celebrity Grand Marshal, Amanda Shaw (sponsored

by CrescentCare), Mardi Gras Indians (sponsored by Bell’s Brewery), TBC Brass Band (sponsored by Avita Pharmacy) and many local entertainers from our drag and burlesque communities. After PrideFest, get ready for Louisiana’s Largest LGBTQ Parade, the New Orleans Pride Parade: Presented by Walgreens. The parade rolls at 7:30pm from Royal St. and Frenchmen St.; It will proceed down Decatur St., N. Peters St., and Canal St. before winding through the French Quarter on a 2.5 mile route. Looking for a great place to watch the parade? Family Viewing is best on Decatur at Jackson Square, other prime viewing areas are the balcony of Oz or Good Friends.

Another great place to check out the parade is at girl Crush: Rouge, New Orleans Pride’s Official Ladies, Queer, Non-Binary party at Coyote Ugly.

Sunday, June 10th closes out with Brian Justin Crum at Oz New Orleans followed by the Ladies of Oz Drag Show.

More events are being added daily so check out NewOrleansPrideFestival.com for more information. Be sure to sign up for the Pride newsletter to be the first to find out who our surprise celebrity acts are!

Pub Crawl Honoring Rip & Marsha Saturday 5/19—2:00 ish

HoneyBee Trivia Thursdays 7:00 PM

Happy Hour Daily

Free Jello Shots & Bar Tab

noon - 9:00 PM Saturday 5/19 10:00 PM

Country Dancing Tuesdays 7:00 PM

Farewell Performance Sunday 5/20—4:30 PM

12 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Drag Brunch Sky Bar At The Reef Biloxi on April 29, 2018

Gulf Coast Equality Council and Festival Photos Courtesy of John Perkins

www.GayMardiGras.com 路 www.GayEasterParade.com 路 May 8 - 21, 2018 路 The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com 路 13

Snap Paparazzi: NOAGE Meeting

Tricentennial Profiles in History: Norbert Rillieux

Photos Courtesy of Tony Leggio

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

Born a free man of color in New Orleans in 1806, Norbert Rillieux became an early pioneer in the field of chemical engineering and revolutionized the sugar industry.

His father Vincent was a wealthy plantation owner who was not-so-distantly related to the French Impressionist painter Edgar Degas, whose mother

was from New Orleans. Vincent made his mark by inventing a steam cotton-bailing process. Norbert inherited his father’s interest in engineering and was graduated from the Ecole Centrale in Paris, where he became interested in the emerging steam technology of the day.

Rillieux returned to Louisiana and would go on to invent the Multiple Effect Evaporator, which made refining and granulating sugar less expensive and financially viable. Prior to Rillieux’s invention, sugar planters utilized a method known as “The Jamaica Train,” a labor intensive, costly, and highly dangerous system. In addition to being cheaper and safer, Rillieux’s evaporator produced higher quality sugar.

After revolutionizing the sugar industry, Rillieux returned to France where he developed an interest in Egyptology, deciphering hieroglyphics at the Bibliotheque Nationale. Rillieux died in Paris in 1894.

941 ELYSIAN FIELDS

JUNE 9 FROM 1 TO 6 P.M.

THE OFFICIAL HOME OF

PRIDE FEST

SEE OUR FULL PRIDE CALENDAR AT PHOENIXBARNOLA.COM

DALLAS STEELE

LORD VIGOR

14 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Snap Paparazzi: Oz New Orleans Photos Courtesy of Persana Shoulders

OZ New Orleans 2-story, 24/7 gay dance club with DJs, drag shows, go-go dancers & a balcony for people-watching.

OPENING HOURS

FRI, SAT & SUN: 24/7 MON–THURS: Opens at 1PM

ADDRESS 800 Bourbon Street New Orleans, LA Phone: (504) 593-9491 www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 15

SIPPS Bar Gulf Port: Kameron Michaels from RuPauls’ Drag Race Photos Courtesy of Sarah Elizabeth Dutton

SIPPS BAR GULFPORT Our beer is cold, patio is shaded, and pool tables and nightlife dance floor are waiting for your moves at Sipps bar Downtown Gulfport.

OPENING HOURS Everyday 5pm - TILL ADDRESS 2218 25th Ave, Gulfport, MS Phone: (228) 206-7717 Email: sipps25th@gmail.com 16 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Under the Gaydar: New Orleans Hot Happenings

by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com

The city is alive with plenty of hot happenings. Every issue we will feature weekly events at some of the best LGBTQ bars in the city as well as special fundraisers, festivals, parties and drag shows.

Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag.

Twofer Tuesdays: Doubleplay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drinks special is two for one drinks until 10 p.m.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke with the winner gets a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball.

Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m.

Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m.

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx.

Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is a one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess

Wednesday, May 9, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrollton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity. See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends...

You Better Sing Karaoke; Lafitte’s in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Lafitte’s in Exile. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders

The Double Play

and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs.

Half-Price Hump Days (Wednesdays): Doubleplay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m.

Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers Thursday, May 10, 2018 Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Announcement Party 2018: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 7 - 10 p.m. WHO WILL BE THE SOUTHERN DECADENCE GRAND MARSHALS FOR 2018? Come join Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLIII - Persana Shoulders, Princess Stephaney, and Coca Mesa - as they announce their successors for Southern Decadence Grand Marshal this coming year. Party begins at 7 pm with food in the upstairs bar followed by a fabulous show leading up to the announcement of the new Grand Marshals XLIV. 2018 Belles and Beaus Announce-

ment Party: Canal Place; 333 Canal Street; 5:30 - 7 p.m. You are cordially invited to the Belles and Beaus Ball Announcement Party benefiting the New Orleans American Cancer Society. This year, guests are invited to “A Place Where Hope Can Grow” on the 3rd Floor at Canal Place. This Announcement Party serves as a kick-off party for the Ball that is held Friday, September 28, 2018 at Mardi Gras World. It is our way of announcing to the public our 2018 Belles and Beaus who we honor at the Ball. ACS of NOLA invites you to come and enjoy this FREE event! We will have complimentary food from Carrollton Market, SAFFRON NOLA, andMorton’s The Steakhouse and featuring Belvedere Vodka and Smoke House Wines. Live entertainment, games and a silent auction will also be happening during the event.

Cocktails in the Count’s Room: Arnaud’s Restaurant; 813 Bienville Street; 7 - 10 p.m. Party like it’s prohibition at Arnaud’s as they continue to celebrate their 100th birthday with a cocktail reception, featuring a special menu and cocktail selections for the 1920’s. For menu and more information go to www. arnaudsrestaurant.com.

Continued on Page 18

Daily Specials Margarita Mondays $3.00 Margaritas from Open to Close

TI

on

I s n

In

a r T

Two-fer Tuesdays 2-for-1 Drinks from open until 10:00 PM

HALF-PRICE HUMP DAY

All Drinks half-price from open until 10:00 PM

Three Dollar Thursdays

$3.00 Jagermeister & Fireball Shots from Open to Close

Long Island Fridays

$5.00 Long Island Iced Teas from Open to Close

CAT 5 SATURDAYS

439 Dauphine Street New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 523-4517

$5.00 Hurricanes from Open to Close Doubles for the price of singles from 8:00 pm to 10:00 PM

Open 7:30 AM - 1:30 AM

All You Can Drink Mimosas & Bloody Marys from Noon to 3:00 PM Only $15

B ottomless Sundays

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 17

Continued from Page 17

Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night.

Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is bringing you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night.

The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Three-Dollar Thursdays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night.

Friday, May 11, 2018 Project Lazarus Annual Guardian Angel Award Gala: Ace Hotel; 600 Carondelet Street; 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Please join Lazarus House as they honor and celebrate our newest Guardian Angels: Maryam Bahman and Angie Bowlin. The elegant event at the fabulous Ace Hotel New Orleans features a cocktail hour, a three-course dinner, an award ceremony, and a high-end silent and live auction. All proceeds benefit our mission of housing and supporting people living with HIV/AIDS in New Orleans. Black tie optional. For tickets, go to www.projectlazarus.net.

Pride Prom: Hyatt Regency; 601 Loyola Street; 7 - 11 p.m . The Hyatt Regency New Orleans, HyPride, PFLAG New Orleans, and Jewish Pride NOLA (a program of the Jewish Federation of GNO) invite youth ages 1521 to Pride Prom 2018! This year will feature a special performance by New Orleans LGBTQ advocate and bounce music star, BIG FREEDIA! The event will be held in the Celestin Ballroom, and the attire is whatever makes you feel fabulous. The cost is free.

Bust One For Daddy D: The Phoenix; 941 Elysian Fields; 10 p.m. - 1 a.m. All donations for the night’s Beer Bust ($10 for keg beer and snacks), $1 Jell-O shots, and Cherry Bombs will go toward Mr. Louisiana Leather 2018 (Darrel Klassy) as he travels to Chicago over Memorial Day weekend to compete for The International Mr. Leather Title! Come by, leave a TIP in the tip jar, HANG OUT with The Lords of Leather, and celebrate a tremen-

dous reign by Daddy D! They We will have a 50/50 Raffle at 11pm.

Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites.

Play Girlz: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. Drag show featuring Gia GiaVanni and special guests.

New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize.

Long Island Fridays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $5 Long Island Iced Teas all day and night.

Saturday, May 12, 2018 Glitter and Be Gay 2018 - The Tricentennial Edition: Armeinius Den; 433 N. Broad Street; 7 - 9:30 p.m. Glitter and Be Gay returns for its 10th year and just in time to celebrate the city of New Orleans’ official founding week celebration. Come enjoy all that makes our city gay and grand. Sip cocktails, eat great bites and enjoy a fabulous silent art auction. Wear all your sparkles, pins, and bling as we celebrate together. This year’s festivities are being held at the Armeinius Den so you can see some of our New Orleans themed costumes from our smashing 50th ball “300 Years of Fabulous” up close and personal. Tickets are $40 at the door, buy early online and save. For tickets go to www.ticketleap.armeinius.com Halfway to Halloween New Orleans Bar Crawl: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; starts at 1 p.m. Are you missing Halloween? Here is your chance to wear that costume from the back of your closet for an afternoon of fun. Come celebrate Halloween a little early this year with our very first HalfWay to HNO Bar Crawl. We will make our way through the French Quarter hitting all the favorite spots along the way. Stopping in for sips and drinks every few blocks. We will do a raffle at each bar and we have some AMAZING swag to give away. At our last stop we will even raffle off at HOST pass. So come join us for fun and a drink. Costumes are not mandatory but are highly encouraged. We are having a contest for Best Overall and Best Group. We will announce the winner at the end of the crawl. The fee is $20 til May 11th and $25 the day of the event. Everyone will receive a special Half Way to HNO cup that will allow you to get all the drink specials along the route. Registration will begin at 1pm at The Golden Lantern. They will have a drink special for everyone as well as jambalaya.

Krewe of Stars Summer Cruisin Pool Party: 221 Oakmont Drive; 1 p.m.

- dusk. The Krewe of Stars welcomes you to join us for our Summer Cruisin’ Pool Party at the home of co-Captain Carl Mack and First Mate Darric Cav-

alier! There’s going to be Grilling, Daiquiris, Piano Bar, & more! This event is free for KOS members and only $20 for KOS supporters. Text RSVP to 504.858.8228. Become a STAR yourself at www.kreweofstars.com.

Nola Gaymers Party - May: The LGBT Community Center; 2727 South Broad Street; 2 - 6 p.m. Join LGBT Gamers at the LGBT Center to socialize, game and generally geek out! They will have board games, party games, card games, and snacks to share!

Guests are encouraged to bring their own favorite games as well. Donations of $3 or more towards future Gaymer events will be split with the LGBT center. We are excited to announce +1 Gaming is the sponsor and those who donate will be entered into a drawing to win a prize from their store!

Champagne Stroll on Magazine Street: Magazine Street; 5 - 9 p.m.

Champagne Stroll on Magazine Street is one of the city’s premier springtime sip & shop events, held the Saturday before Mother’s Day! This fun annual event draws huge crowds of shoppers to Magazine Street to enjoy beautiful weather and extended shopping hours. Locals and visitors are invited to this one night only event, with over 100 businesses providing FREE sparkling wine, and many offering special deals, promotional sales, and art and trunk shows. Participating shops, stores, galleries, and restaurants will be open from 5pm to 9pm, and the event is free and open to the public. Special thanks to our wine sponsor, Breaux Mart Supermarkets.

PFLAG Scholarship Reception: UNO Lindy Boggs Reception Center; 2045 Lakeshore Drive; 5 p.m. Join PFLAG New Orleans for their annual presentation for education funding for local students. There will also be food, entertainment, a silent auction and champagne. For tickets go to www. pflagno.org.

Music of Vanessa Carr Kennedy; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy songstress Vanessa as she sings some of the tops hits of yesterday and today.

Divas R Us; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. This wonderful drag show directed by Monica Sinclaire Kennedy includes a special guests stars.

Piano Bar with Trey Ming; Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 4 - 7 p.m. Sing along with your favorite songs with Talented piano player Trey Ming.

CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink specials are $5 Hurricanes all day and night and from 8 - 10 p.m. Doubles for the price of a Single on all alcohol.

Glitter Girls: The Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 10:30 p.m. - 2 a.m. Join Glitter Girls as they celebrate Countess C Alice and Lana O’Day’s birthdays!

18 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Sunday, May 13, 2018 Bottomless Sundays: The DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street. The drink special is $15 Bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Bottomless Mimosas: Cafe Lafittes in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 1 - 4 p.m.

Bottomless Mimosas are offered upstairs from 1 - 4 p.m. for $12.

You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m.

Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and special guests.

Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Drink Drown and Drag: The Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 6 - 9 p.m. Sunday Funday upstairs at The Parade. $15 Drink and Drown from 6 - 9 p.m. with a star studded drag show starting at 8 p.m.

Monday, May 14, 2018 Slotted Spoon Productions KickOff Event; GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 - 9 p.m. The official Kick-Off Event for New Orleans’ newest theatre company, Slotted Spoon Productions, will be at Grandpre’s Bar. Excellent drinks prices, free food, and entertainment selected from upcoming Slotted Spoon shows, all with NO COVER! Come hear about all the exciting events happening this year with Slotted Spoon Productions, and enjoy watching a new kind of theatre.

S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis Street; Starting at 9 p.m Come drink with Ashlee. Get your SIN card and receive $2.50 canned beer or well drinks and $1.50 draft.

Margarita Mondays: The DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 margaritas all day and night.

Pool Tournament: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 9:45 p.m. $2 PBR and $50 Gift Certificate for Rawhide Tuesday, May 15, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke with the winner gets a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball.

Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m.

Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons

with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m.

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx.

Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is a one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag.

Twofer Tuesdays: Doubleplay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drinks special is two for one drinks until 10 p.m.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018 Atomyc Wolf Presents Naked Note: Hi-Ho Lounge; 2239 St. Claude Ave.; 9 p.m. - midnight. Join the HiHo Lounge for the new age of LIVE MUSIC BURLESQUE. Naked Note brings local bands together with New Orleans Burlesque Icons. A night of music and the best of No Pants Dancin. Show will begin at 9pm with Baby Boy Bartels and the Boys to get you into the grove and will continue to accompany the Naked Notes. The Queen of New Orleans Burlesque, Trixie Minx. Xena Zeitgeist, of the Society of Sin, with all of her sinfully amazing stage presents.

Franky Conga, the legs of wonder with his unique French Creole boylesque style. And Hosted by the one and only Atomyc Adonis with his gender fluid wonders.

WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrolton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity. See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends...

You Better Sing Karaoke; Lafitte’s in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Lafitte’s in Exile. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs.

Half-Price Hump Days (Wednesdays): Doubleplay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m.

Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740

Burgundy Street; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers Thursday, May 17, 2018 Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top person/team of the night.

Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is bringing you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night.

The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive: 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Three-Dollar Thursdays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night.

Atomyc Wolf Present FamBOYant: AllWays Lounge; 2240 St. Claude Avenue; 9 p.m. - midnight AtomycWolf

brings a new Monthly show to the AllWays Lounge & Cabaret. flamBOYant brings the art of Boylesque to a new level, fully stripped. The flamBOYS will grace the stage with conceptual art and striptease that will stimulate all of your mind and body. Come meet the flamBOYS, Phathoms Deep, Bobby B, Franky Conga, Danny Girl, Claymazing, Joy, and Atomyc Adonis on Thursday April 26th at 10pm for the premier of flamBOYant hosted by the non-binary wonder Atomyc Adonis with the Show All flamBOYS for the new revolution of BOYlesque here in New Orleans. $10 cover.

Friday, May 18, 2018 Long Island Fridays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $5 Long Island Iced Teas all day and night.

Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites.

Play Girlz: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. Drag show featuring Gia GiaVanni and special guests.

New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize.

NOMA Late Night Hot Couture: New Orleans Museum of Art; 1 Diboll Continued on Page 20

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 19

Continued from Page 19

Circle; 5 p.m. - midnight. In celebration of its first ever fashion exhibition, “A Queen Within: Adorned Archetypes,” the New Orleans Museum of Art opens its doors until midnight. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m. with live music, performances, guided tours, a film screening, and a public conversation with Vogue creative digital director Sally Singer and New Yorker contributor Thomas Beller. FREE for NOMA Members | $20 for Nonmembers. For tickets, go to www.noma.org.

Saturday, May 19, 2018 Celebration of Life Bar Crawl: The Double Play; 439 Dauphine Street; 1 4 p.m. Join the celebration Rip & Marsha Naquin Delain’s fabulous life together and the incredible contributions they made to the community. The celebration will include stops at five bars where the family and friends of Rip and Marsha will share reminiscences. The crawl will start at 1:00 and includes the following stops: 1:00 The Double Play; 1:45 Grand Pre’s; 2:30 The Golden Lantern; 3:15 Oz and 4:00 Café Lafitte in Exile.

Johnny Passion’s Belle Reve Circus of the Stars: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 6 - 8 p.m. Join the 2nd Annual Circus to benefit Belle Reve NOLA. Some of the area’s most talented and entertaining performers will be bringing

their acts to the stage. They will have popcorn and cotton candy, too!! Silent Auction ... photo booth. Suggested $10.00 donation at door.

Piano Bar with Trey Ming; Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 4 - 7 p.m. Sing along with your favorite songs with Talented piano player Trey Ming.

Music of Vanessa Carr Kennedy; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy songstress Vanessa as she sings some of the tops hits of yesterday and today.

Divas R Us; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. This wonderful drag show directed by Monica Sinclaire Kennedy includes a special guests stars.

CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink specials are $5 Hurricanes all day and night and from 8 - 10 p.m. Doubles for the price of a Single on all alcohol.

GCPAH Beer Bust: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 8 - 10 p.m. $5 ALL YOU CAN DRINK Beer Bust with $1 jello shots to top off the night) Gag Reflex: The Always Lounge; 2240 St. Claude Avenue; 11 p.m. - 2 a.m. Gag Reflex started as the only themed drag show in New Orleans.

Cast includes: Tarah Cards, Siren, Laveau Contraire, Fabigail Tchoupitoulas and NEON Burgundy. The theme

ARE YOU BEACH READY FOR PENSACOLA MEMORIAL WEEKEND?

3630 COLISEUM ST. NOLA, 70115

this month is a surprise. Shows at midnight - $10 Cover.

Sunday, May 20, 2018 The 2018 Hooker’s Ball: Double Play; 439 Dauphine Street; 6 - 9 p. m.

Join the Krewe of Narcissus as they host Hooker’s Ball II at the Double Play Bar, 4The Krewe will host our guest at the Hooker’s Masquerade Ball with a scrumptious light fare buffet, live entertainment and the selection of Hooker Queen II of the Hooker’s Ball as Hooker Queen I Wilma Do returns for her step down. Tickets for this event will be available through any Krewe member or at the Double Play Bar. $15. advance tickets Bottomless Sundays: The DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $15 Bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Bottomless Mimosas: Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 1 - 4 p.m.

Bottomless Mimosas are offered upstairs from 1 - 4 p.m. for $12.

Trash Disco: Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 4 - 9 p.m. THE ORIGINAL TRASH DISCO with the Famous Napkin Toss! Step back to the days of Disco and remember you will never know when the napkins hit the air. Now Up stairs and Down stairs.

You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m.

Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and special guests.

Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo with hosts Opal Masters followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Drink Drown and Drag: The Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 6 - 9 p.m. Sunday Funday upstairs at The Parade. $15 Drink and Drown from 6 - 9 p.m. with a star studded drag show starting at 8 p.m.

Monday, May 21, 2018 S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis Street; Starting at 9 p.m.

Come drink with Ashlee. Get your SIN card and receive $2.50 canned beer Margarita Mondays: The DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 margaritas all day and night.

Pool Tournament: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 9:45 p.m. $2 PBR and $50 Gift Certificate for Raw-

hide Tuesday, May 22, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke with the winner gets a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball.

Country Dance lessons: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8 p.m.

Tuesdays are Country Dance lessons with dancing from 8 - 11 p.m.

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 8:00 p.m. See the men of Oz like you have never seen them before. The show stars Atomyc Adonis, Bobby B, Franky, Phathoms Deep and other special guests. Hosted by Trixie Minx.

Tacos, Tequila and Tiaras: Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant; 1001 Esplanade Avenue; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is a one of New Orleans’ only family friendly drag shows! Join hostess Vanessa Carr Kennedy every Tuesday, have a taco or two, and learn a little bit about the art of drag.

Twofer Tuesdays: Doubleplay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drinks special is two for one drinks until 10 p.m.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South Carrollton Ave.; 5 p.m. Join us every Wednesday to celebrate diversity. See old friends or make some new ones and find out what’s happening in the Nola community. All this while enjoying 1/2 price drinks from the bar. Invite your friends.

You Better Sing Karaoke; Lafitte’s in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Lafitte’s in Exile. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. with free jello shots and Bar Tabs.

Half-Price Hump Days (Wednesdays): Doubleplay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m.

Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy Street; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers Thursday, May 24, 2018 Honey Bee Trivia: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart St.; 7 p.m. Thursday is Honey Bee Trivia at 7 p.m. Four rounds with jello shots to the winner of each round and a Bar Tab to top per-

20 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

son/team of the night.

Girl | Crush: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is bringing you a weekly event for girls who like girls, and their friends! This flavor of CRUSH entitled DTF is exclusive to New Orleans’ #1 Dance Club, Oz and happens every Thursday night.

The Jeff D Comedy Cabaret; Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D. featuring Gia Giavanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; midnight Persana Shoulders hosts the Strip Off every Thursday night. Sign up begins at 11 p.m. and the show features a spotlight performance by Miss Gay Louisiana America 2013 Mercedes Ellis Loreal. Winners receive 1st PLACE - $100 Cash • 2nd PLACE - $50 Bar tab Three-Dollar Thursdays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night.

Friday, May 25, 2018 Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites.

Play Girlz: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. Drag show featuring Gia GiaVanni and special guests.

New Meat Amateur Dance Contest: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Lisa Beaumann, anyone can enter - $100 cash prize.

Long Island Fridays: DoublePlay

Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $5 Long Island Iced Teas all day and night.

Saturday, May 26, 2018 Piano Bar with Trey Ming; Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine Street; 4 - 7 p.m. Sing along with your favorite songs with Talented piano player Trey Ming.

Music of Vanessa Carr Kennedy; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy songstress Vanessa as she sings some of the tops hits of yesterday and today.

Divas R Us; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 10 - 11:30 p.m. This wonderful drag show directed by Monica Sinclaire Kennedy includes a special guests stars.

Johnny Passion Presents Risque - The Sultry Side of Drag: AllWays Lounge; 2240 N. Rampart Street; 10 p.m. - midnight Starring Monique Michaels-Alexander and Ava Gina with special guest stars Kayla Starr and Solitaire. Showtime is 10pm. NO cover. Show will be in the theater!

CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink specials are $5 Hurricanes all day and night and from 8 - 10 p.m. Doubles for the price of a Single on all alcohol.

Big Easy Sisters Bingo: The Phoenix; 941 Elysian Fields; 7 - 9 p.m.

Sunday, May 27, 2018 Bottomless Sundays: The DoublePlay Bar; 439 Dauphine Street The drink special is $15 Bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Bottomless Mimosas: Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 1 - 4 p.m.

Bottomless Mimosas are offered upstairs from 1 - 4 p.m. for $12.

Trash Disco: Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 4 - 9 p.m. THE ORIGINAL TRASH DISCO with the Famous Napkin Toss! Step back to the days of Disco and remember you will never know when the napkins hit the air. Now Up stairs and Down stairs.

You Better Sing Karaoke; GrandPre’s; 834 North Rampart St.; 7 p.m.

Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Good Friends Bar. Behind the bar slinging your drinks for you are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal Street; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and

special guests.

Zingo: Corner Pocket; 640 St. Louis Street; 6:30 p.m. Play Bingo with hosts Opal Masters followed by the Barry BareAss Dancer of the Week Contest.

Oz Show Night: Oz; 800 Bourbon Street; 9:30 p.m. This popular drag show is hosted by Persana Shoulders and features Nicole Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Connie Hung, Anastascia Davenport; Chichi Rodriguez and Dominique DeLorean.

Drink Drown and Drag: The Pub; 801 Bourbon Street; 6 - 9 p.m. Sunday Funday upstairs at The Parade. $15 Drink and Drown from 6 - 9 p.m. with a star studded drag show starting at 8 p.m.

Get Your Event Listed If you want to make sure your upcoming event is listed, email the information to me at ledgemgp@gmail.com.

Book Review: The Rest of It: Hustlers, Cocaine, Depression, and Then Some, 19761988

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

The Rest of It: Hustlers, Cocaine, Depression, and Then Some, 19761988.

Martin Duberman.

2018.

Duke UP. ISBN: 978082237073. 256 pages.

Martin Duberman is a prolific writer (in several genres) and a profound figure in Gay and Lesbian Studies. Until now, fans, students, historians, and admirers have always wondered why, in all of his writing, Duberman never wrote about the period from 1976 through 1988. Now they have the answer. Duberman writes, “Those were the most painful years of my life.”

The Rest of It is the previously untold and revealing story of how Duberman managed to survive his turbulent personal life while still playing leading roles in the gay community and the academy. Duberman’s personal hell began with the death of his mother and

led to a crippling cocaine and hustler addiction. Along the way there were psychiatric wards and the onset of the AIDS epidemic.

Despite the hardships, Duberman managed to be incredibly productive: he wrote his biography of Paul Robeson, rededicated himself to teaching, wrote plays, and coedited the prize-winning Hidden from History. His exploration of new paths of scholarship culminated in his founding of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies, thereby inaugurating a new academic discipline. At the outset of the HIV/AIDS epidemic Duberman increased his political activism, and in these pages he also describes the tensions between the New Left and gay organizers, as well as the profound homophobia that created the conditions for queer radical activism. Filled with gossip, featur-

ing cameo appearances by luminaries such as Gore Vidal, Norman Mailer, Vivian Gornick, Susan Brownmiller, Kate Millett, and Néstor Almendros, among many others, and most importantly, written with an unflinching and fearless honesty, The Rest of It provides scathing insights into a troubling decade of both personal and political history. It is a stimulating look into a key period of Duberman’s life, which until now had been too painful to share.

Martin Duberman is Distinguished Professor of History, Emeritus, at City University of New York, where he founded and directed the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies. He is the author of numerous histories, biographies, memoirs, essays, plays, and novels, which include Cures: A Gay Man’s Odyssey; Paul Robeson; Stonewall; Midlife Queer: Autobiography of

a Decade, 1971–1981; Black Mountain: An Exploration in Community; The Worlds of Lincoln Kirstein; Jews/ Queers/Germans; and more than a dozen others. His biography of Charles Francis Adams won the Bancroft Prize, and his coedited anthology Hidden from History: Reclaiming the Gay and Lesbian Past won two Lambda Literary Awards. He won a third Lambda Award for Hold Tight Gently: Michael Callen, Essex Hemphill, and the Battlefield of AIDS. Duberman received the 2007 Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Historical Association, as well as two honorary degrees: Doctor of Humane Letters from Amherst College, and Doctor of Letters from Columbia University. He was also a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. Duberman lives in New York City.

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 21

LGBT Owned & Friendly Business Directory

bars

Job Opportunities Ambush Magazine is growing!

Freelance & Contributing Writers Wanted

We want to hear from you if you are a working or aspiring journalist interested in covering topics meaningful to the LGBTQ community.

Snap Paparazzi Photographer Wanted

Do you frequent the LGBTQ bars and events? We want to hear from you if you are interested in regularly covering the bars and events.

If you are interested, please email your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to info@ambushpublishing.com

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. Café Lafitte in Exile is the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the United States.

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. Designed for a casual night out or a quiet evening with that special someone, we offer a wide selection of liquor, beer, and the world renowned Separator.

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. Leather, Dark Rooms, & Bears All Around. You can feel the throb of excitement and smell it in the air. This isn’t just a bar. This is an experience!

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

Easter Sunday, April 11, 2018, 19th Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade. com

costumes

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

galleries

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

guides

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. More than just a hardware store, Mary’s Ace French Quarter Hardware also features an extensive selection of kitchen and bath items upstairs.

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. [0118] 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 “half-kitchen”, courtyard and half-open tubhouse with spa (hot tub/ whirlpool). Clothing optional in sunbathing and hot tub area. Walking distance to French Quarter. Immediate vicinity of gay and lesbian bars/venues. [0815] The french quarter guest houses, 1005 St. Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, Phone: 1.800.367.5858, FrenchQuarterGuest-

22 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Houses.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!

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, P.O. Box 2587, LaPlace, LA 70069, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: info@ambushpublishing.com AMBUSHonLINE, P.O. Box 2587, LaPlace, LA 70069, 522.8049, AmbushOnline.COM; email: info@ambushpublishing. com

organizations

FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 504.821.2601 ext. 254 FRIDAY NIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), 504.319.8261, www.fridaynightbeforemardigras.com GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828A 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; HalloweenNewOrleans.COM 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 LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, 1308 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.475.7911, www.lgbtarchivesla.org MYSTIC KREWE OF LORDS OF LEATHER, 1000 Bourbon St #B415, New Orleans, LA 70116, 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 NEW ORLEANS PRIDE, info@neworleanspridefestival.com; 504.321.6006; NewOrleansPrideFestival.COM; NOLAPride.

ORG; New Orleans Pride fully embraces the message of “One CommUNITY” as we celebrate our history and promote the future prosperity of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast Region. We use public awareness and education about the LGBT+ community as a way to combat “phobias” and discrimination. Our programs, seminars and events leading up to, and during Pride weekend, are meant to include individuals from all walks of life.

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 504.947.2121, stannanola.org

Cafe Sbisa, 1011 Decatur St., 522.5565, www.cafesbisanola.com Cheezy Cajun, 3325 St. Claude Ave., 265.0045, www.TheCheezyCajun.com Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, www.CloverGrill.com. Since 1939, our quirky, cozy, unique diner has been home to the best breakfasts & burgers on Bourbon Street–maybe even the whole French Quarter!

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

real estate

New Orleans, LA [504] Engel & Völkers New Orleans, Michael Styles, Realtor — Michael specializes in helping first-time homebuyers and real estate investors find the perfect New Orleans

properties. 504.777.1773, NolaStyles.com Latter & Blum, Steven Richards Realtor, 504.258.1800, SteveRichardsProperties.com New Orleans Relocation, Realtors — gay-owned 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 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] Formal Connection, 299 Belle Terre Blvd. LaPlace, LA, 985.652.1195

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

pharmacy

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

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www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 23

Party Down

by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com

From one festival to another, seems like the city never ends. After the fun of French Quarter Festival, we shuffle right into Jazz festival. There was so many incredible events over the last two weeks leading up to Jazz Fest. I kicked it all off by attending the opening night of Rent at the Saenger Theatre. It is the 20th anniversary of this Tony award winning rock opera and it is till as entertaining today as it was back then. The cast was excellent and belted out each song. Rent is still one of my favorite musicals with many memorable songs.

On Wednesday, New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders had a membership drive meeting and board elections at the Drifter Hotel. As luck would have it Tulane was having a fraternity party at the same time, so the scenery was delicious. NOAGE is great organization for people of any age. I started helping this worthy group a few years ago and now I am honked to say IO am on the board as Vice President.

So I hope to see everyone at our next event.

I took a minor little sabbatical to the Gulf Coast on Sunday and Monday. I find that Gulfport (the entire coast area) is a great place to unwind. The city not only has a great gay scene but has lots to see and do. Some friends and I drove down and went directly to the Chimneys Restaurant, which is a quaint spot on the beach with the best brunch with bottomless champagne and mimosas. Their brunch special is delicious and very affordable. The service and atmosphere make it my top spot to eat every time I visit Gulfport. After brunch we checked into Island Vieux Hotel and Casino. Our room was in the beach tower and there was plenty of construction happening.

They are adding a non-smoking casino and spa on the beach. They say the renovations should be done by this summer.

We continued out Sunday Funday by gambling at the casino b before heading out for a night on the town.

We went to dinner at Half Shell Restaurant located in their downtown area.

The Half Shell Oyster House has ten

locations with the first one opened in the summer of 2009 in Downtown Gulfport, which is the one we visited. Located in the historic Kremer building in downtown Gulfport, the “Half Shell” or “Oyster House,” as locals call it, serves the Southern delicacy freshly shucked on the half shell, charbroiled over an open flame, BBQ, Rockefeller and Bienville. I can attest the chargrilled are delicious. They also just opened up their first restaurant in Lafayette, Louisiana. Next on our agenda, we went to Sipp’s, the city’s only gay bar also located downtown. Tonight was drag bingo with the fabulous Estelle Suarez.

Estelle is a sassy, witty and flamboyant drag queen and bingo at Sipp’s is hysterical. Her commentary as she pulls balls is worth the visit to the coast. After bingo, we had a few more cocktails in their courtyard and played a game of oversized jengo before calling it a night.

The following day, I did a little retail therapy in Gulfport. Not only do they have the Outlet Malls, but they have most of the major stores in the city. I always visit my guilty retail pleasure when I visit Gulfport called Dirt Cheap.

Just taken Dollar General and Big Lots shake it up in a blender and this is what comes out. It is not pretty but it sure is fun to walk through the aisles. While I was there, I also managed to catch a matinee of the scary new thriller, A Quiet Place, directed by John Krasinski, who stars alongside Emily Blunt, his wife. The plot follows a family who must live life in silence while hiding from creatures which hunt exclusively by sound. This movie was awesome and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. They open up with a very brutal killing and then it just keeps up the fast pace from that point on.

They are already working on a sequel to it, cannot wait.

That night, I had dinner at Carter Green Steakhouse located in the Casino. Monday nights are one of their busiest night for local and guests alike with their prime rib special. For $19.99, you can get a 12 oz. prime rib, side, soup or salad and dessert. It is an incredible deal for a delectable meal. The service is also top notch making it a wonderful dining experience. I do recommend that you make reservations before you go to alleviate any waiting.

The New Orleans Advocate for GLBT Elders held their monthly potluck once again at the Drifter Hotel on Tuesday. It was a well-attended event as you got to mingle with members of the organization. Remember NOAGE’s events are open to any age and it is a great opportunity for seniors to have a fun evening out and meet others. And on the flip side, younger members can

meet some pretty incredible individuals who paved the way for the freedoms we have today. There are some pretty incredible stories. Later that night, I hopped over to the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) for their open house where they showed off all their spaces to event planners.

The weather was beautiful as guests strolled through their outdoor areas which includes the Press Street Gardens and the lot across the street from it. That evening they had street performers outside int he lot that included rollerskaters, a hoverboard DJ, a marionette artist and stiltwalkers. The gardens were done up in a lovely wedding style. The garden is an awesome place for a party, they even have goats and chickens. Inside they have the Press Street Station Restaurant, several art galleries and the Solomon Family Hall.

Congratulation to the staff, patrons and students of NOCCA for turning this once dilapidated space into a prestigious school for up and coming artists as well as a cool party venue.

On Wednesday, I attended the Skal Dinner at the World War 2 Museum. With over 300 guests in attendance, leaders in our hospitality and tourism industry gave us updates on all the new advances at the airport, the RTA, Convention Center, the WW2 Museum as well a status report of how the city is doing in general. My company president tis the member of this impressive organization. Here is a brief history on this fascinating group.

Skål is a professional organization of tourism leaders around the world, promoting global tourism and friendship. It is the only international group uniting all branches of the travel and tourism industry. Its members, the industry’s managers and executives, meet at local, national, regional and international levels to Do Business Among Friends.

The first Club was founded in 1932 in Paris by travel managers. The idea of international goodwill and friendship grew and, in 1934, the “Association Internationale des Skål Clubs” was formed with Florimond Volckaert as its first President, who is considered the “Father of Skål”. Skål International today has approximately 15,000 members in 400 Clubs throughout over 90 countries. Most activities occur at local level, moving up through National Committees, under the umbrella of Skål International, headquartered at the General Secretariat in Torremolinos, Spain.

On Friday, I went after work to the first Halloween New Orleans Hosts Happy Hour at Good Friends. Being a host for the Halloween New Orleans party helps put on this amazing threeday event, it also gets you into month-

24 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

ly socials. This kickoff event allowed new, potential and annual hosts to mix and mingle on their fabulous balcony in great weather. Halloween New Orleans came about during dark days of the AIDS crisis to help the gay community triumphing over challenges with a resilient, joyful spirit. For 34 years, Halloween New Orleans has been raising money for Project Lazarus, an assisted-living home for those with HIV/ AIDS in New Orleans. This year’s festivities will take place October 26-28, 2018 and the theme is Carnival!

The weekend starting on Saturday was all about the Jazz Festival.

The first weekend of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival was gorgeous, from the weather to the bands and do not forget the food and drink.

So, this is definitely not a new thing, but it has grown more popular within the last few years, is the pre, post and all day Jazz fest parties people are having in the surrounding neigh-

borhoods. Just like those friends that live along the parade routes, having a home nearby the Fairgrounds is pure gold during Jazz Fest. It is even gotten so popular that people just host porch/ house parties during the fest and never go into the Fest. That is exactly what I did on Saturday was party hop. Some people host early morning eye openers before the festival or after parties or like my friend Valerie Landry, have an allday open house. Stop in before, after or hang out all day and enjoy cocktails and people watch. You may have noticed her house, it is not only the one of two houses located on the Fairgrounds (her backdoor opens to the Blues Tent), but it was festively decorated with pink flamingos in different outfits. Her rock band flamingos dressed as Aerosmith going into the Artist Entrance is adorable. So, Saturday, some friends and I hung out at Valerie’s house which was aptly entitled Flamingo A Go Go and had cocktails talked to friends, met

strangers and just had an awesome time. Outside the gates or in, the party never stops.

On Sunday, I did actually enter Jazz Fest this time and listened to some great music, enjoyed my favorite dishes, purchased some great art and did a little tent hopping. The food vendors at the Jazz and heritage Festival are some of the best in the city and every year I have to get my crawfish bread from Panaroma Foods out of Marksville and the cracklins and sweet potato chips from Fatty’s Cracklins out of St. Francisville. This is my go to comfort food and makes me very happy. The festival has some great art for sale in several areas such as Congo Square, the Louisiana Pavilion, the Louisiana Marketplace and the Contemporary Arts area. I bought some great pieces form Cathy Rise, an artist I have been following for year. She has been at Jazz Fest for 20 years and now has her own gallery at 840 Roy-

al Street. I am just obsessed with her sculptures. I got to visit at a few of the hospitality tents also like the Sheraton tent by the Fais Do Do stage and the Miller tent at the Acura Stage.

I heard some great bands, at the Jazz, Blues and Gospel tents. I also saw one of my favorite local artists Amanda Shaw perform on the Acura Stage. Amanda will also be the Celebrity Grand Marshal for New Orleans Gay Pride 2018. And she also was in the Miller Tent and introduced me to Rachel, the lead singer of the Vettes, who did a great rendition of the hit song New Orleans Lady. But the day belonged to the one and only Jimmy Buffet. Fins, Margaritaville, Changes in Latitudes, he sang all my favorite.

Brought back so many fond memories of past Jazz Fests and now this one has been added. Until next time, party on!

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio Photos by Tony Leggio

At the NOCCA Hospitality Event

At the Halloween New Orleans Hosts Kickoff Party at Good Friends

At the Flamingo-A-Go-Go Jazz Fest Party

At Jazz Fest

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 25

Trodding the Boards

by Brian Sands Email: bsnola2@hotmail.com

The Best of Sinatra at The WWII Museum’s Stage Door Canteen, Wednesdays through Nov. 28

On Wednesday afternoons through November 18, The WWII Museum’s Stage Door Canteen is presenting The Best of Sinatra, a tribute to that great entertainer whose career spanned many decades but who first found great fame during the World War II era. The only question is “Why did it take them so long to do so?”

The answer could be they were waiting for just the right person to come along who could do justice to Ol’ Blue Eyes. When Spencer Racca won the Canteen’s Stage Door Idol contest in 2016, they finally had their man.

Racca is in his mid-twenties, about the same age as Sinatra was when he had his first hit with the Tommy Dorsey band. He hails from Rayne, Louisiana, and with his model-quality looks, could well pass as a Cajun cousin to Frank.

Most important, however, his velvety baritone voice and superb musicianship capture the essence of the

“Chairman of The Board.”

The Best of Sinatra journeys, mostly chronologically, through the Grammy and Oscar winner’s life. Cole Porter’s Night and Day was the first recording Sinatra made under his own name, in March 1942, after fronting big bands such as Dorsey’s and Harry James’s.

The man who would go on to be known as “The Voice” first performed as a singing waiter at The Rustic Cabin in Englewood Cliffs, NJ. One day, when Porter came into the restaurant, Sinatra dedicated his rendition of Night and Day to its writer and then forgot the words. Sinatra would go on to perform and record many of Porter’s classics, but the debonair composer didn’t always like Sinatra’s versions as he tended to change Porter’s lyrics.

We learn all this from projections on an upstage screen with the biographical information suitably superimposed over vintage photographs.

Victoria Reed’s trim script parcels out other information in bite-sized nuggets as well.

Sinatra sang at WWII Army hospi-

Spencer Racca stars in The Best of Sinatra tals and war bond rallies. His version of Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein’s The Song Is You brought in $10,000, a lot of money in those days while his The House I Live In became a patriotic anthem during the War. Just under an hour long, The Best of Sinatra continues through million-selling hits, film roles, Grammys, comebacks, and the inevitable encore of New York, New York, which became Sinatra’s signature song and always closed out his shows in the 1980s and ’90s.

Racca has a beautiful voice with a marvelous vibrato and an appealing woody timbre to it. He clearly has studied the Sinatra style and any one or two of his numbers make for enjoyable lis-

tening. But after a while, all the songs began to sound the same, pitched at a too consistent emotional level.

Racca may not have Sinatra’s charisma--who does?--but I kept waiting for him to loosen up and really swing.

Or else I hoped he would dig a little deeper into the lyrics and make more than merely pretty sounds.

Finally, about half way through, with Come Fly with Me, Racca seemed to relax and actually enjoy his material.

After the always flawless Victory Trio, led by Musical Director Tom Hook, did an instrumental version of The Lady is a Tramp, allowing Racca to change from one snazzy outfit into another, the young singer returned with One for My Baby (and One More for the Road).

26 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Surprisingly, the song’s more mature perspective (and meatier lyrics) suited Racca perfectly and he dug in with his whiskey-tinged baritone to forge a transfixing connection with the words.

As Racca proceeded through the later songs in the Sinatra canon (Witchcraft, Fly Me to the Moon, Strangers in the Night), if he never quite equaled One for My Baby, he did offer a stylish playfulness that well-matched the spirit of these classics.

Racca’s still growing as an artist and I hope he continues to develop his interpretive abilities. Having seen the production in March, perhaps by now, he already has.

Reed, who also directed, kept the pace flowing and has added nice touches such as four different types of microphones for the various time periods the show covers.

Though I had my reservations about The Best of Sinatra, my companion, the mother of a friend of mine, thoroughly enjoyed it. If you’re still looking for a Mother’s Day, or Father’s Day, gift, tickets for this Stage Door Canteen production might be just the right choice.

Whether you go to celebrate a family member or to enjoy Sinatra’s greatest hits, the buffet menu offers lots of yumminess from the recently renovated American Sector restaurant.

A salad of cucumbers, hearts of palm and crisp greens with herbed vinaigrette starts things off in a healthy, tasty manner. Gulf Shrimp Pasta with wild mushrooms and artichokes offers an absolutely delicious main dish.

I’m happy I gave the Chicken Piccata a second chance because, while my first piece was a little tough, the second was nice and tender; lemon butter and aged Parmesan enhanced it further.

Rice pilaf, vegetable jardine, and crisp baby peas & pearl onions all made excellent side dishes.

And I’m not sure what kind of witchcraft the chef used, but for dessert, the Heavenly Trifle, consisting of angel food cake, mascarpone and Louisiana strawberries, flew me to the moon!

Beginning May 11, that wacky musical Nunsense will be playing at the Stage Door Canteen through July 1.

I’m not quite sure what it has to do with World War II, but I pray that all shall be revealed.

Rahim Glaspy at Jazzfest’s Congo Square Stage

For reasons I’ve never fully understood, the worlds of theater and music rarely overlap in New Orleans. Sure, the award-winning singer/actresses Wanda Rouzan and Troi Bechet come to mind, but not too many more. Until now, when we can add Rahim Glaspy to the list.

I first started noticing Glaspy’s talents in a variety of shows at Dillard University, particularly as one of the featured performers in a 2013 production of Dreamgirls. He continued to impress in The Gospel at Colonus there.

Eventually, Glaspy’s appearances began to spread beyond Dillard’s campus. He demonstrated a gift for stylized satire as an unctuous, career-climbing painter in Cripple Creek’s The Cradle Will Rock.

In 2016, Glaspy was elevated to a leading role in Jon Greene’s panto at Le Petit, Sleeping Beauty. As a would-be swashbuckling knight, he held his own as he played straight man to Bob Edes and Keith Claverie, two of this town’s finest actors. Balancing seriousness and mock-seriousness, Glaspy gave a winning performance both silly and sophisticated. It was one of the year’s highlights.

(Full disclosure: In 2015, Glaspy appeared in a workshop of a musical I wrote. Originally scheduled to play a small role, this 20something was recast as a middle-aged man when no age appropriate actor could be found.

He played the part brilliantly and was a pleasure to work with.)

Last year he was part of a fine ensemble in the dramedy Mr. Burns: A Post Electric Play and made tricky dialog seem entirely natural.

Simultaneously with his theatrical exploits, Glaspy has been pursuing a musical career, appearing on club stages around town. So when it was announced that he’d be performing at Jazzfest this year, it wasn’t a complete surprise but certainly very exciting to see his talents acknowledged on a more prominent, high profile platform.

Opening the Congo Square Stage on Jazzfest’s first Sunday, Glaspy’s vivacious personality filled the entire location, and drew more and more people to watch him in the course of his 50 minute set.

Glaspy’s song list featured an eclectic mix of old school (Luther Vandross’ Never Too Much and Anita Baker’s Sweet Love), contemporary tunes (Hey Ya! by André 3000 and Justin Timberlake’s Take Back the Night), and, making up about half of his program, assured original compositions, including Mary Jane Love which featured lovely guest singer K.Jade.

Throughout, Glaspy sang with firm voice and fierce, effervescent charm.

He outfitted the stage not only with a fine 6-piece band, but with two blazing singers (Cherelle Palmer, Chrishira Perrier) and two lithe, saucy dancers (Ebony, KD).

In addition to all that talent, a true generosity of spirit shined through, not only in Glaspy’s lyrics and willingness to share the stage, but in ceding some of his time in the spotlight so that his best friend could propose to his girl-

Rahim Glaspy performing at Jazzfest

Continued on Page 28

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Continued from Page 27

friend on bended knee in front of the Congo Square Stage. She said “Yes!”, tears of joy were shed, and it was a classic Jazzfest moment.

I hope and expect this will be the first of many Jazzfest appearances by Glaspy. In the meantime, you can see him in Cripple Creek’s Sueño, an adaptation by Jose Rivera of Calderon de la Barca’s Life is a Dream. It runs May 25-June 10 at the First Unitarian Universalist Church (2903 Jefferson Ave.).

After his success at the ‘fest, how fortunate we are that Glaspy is coming back to trod the boards some more.

Curtain Up

With Jazzfest now behind us, we can switch from the stages (and tents) at the Fairgrounds back to all the other stages in town.

That said, first up, The NOLA Project’s The Three Musketeers will not be on a stage but in NOMA’s Sculpture Garden. Running May 9-27, Peter McEligott’s adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic tale promises to be part swashbuckling adventure and part Monty Python foolishness. If it’s as fabulous as McEligott’s Adventures in Wonderland, I won’t care what its parts are.

Mark Routhier directs Khiry Armstead, James Bartelle, Will Bowling, Keith Claverie, Leslie Claverie, Jon

Greene, Alex Martinez Wallace, Kali Russell, and others. Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket if you don’t want to sit right on the ground.

Not sure if An Act of God at Le Petit will be more swashbuckling or foolishness, but with Bryan Batt as the worldly embodiment of God, I expect it will be very funny.

In David Javerbaum’s comedy, God arrives on earth in His new corporeal form to set the record straight on His teachings and the meaning of the Bible. In 90 minutes, He revisits the Ten Commandments (of which He’s grown weary) and provides a new interpretation of His Mosaic laws. He also pontificates on evolution, sexuality, and taking His name in vain, while fielding questions from the audience.

Sounds heavenly to me. Act of God plays May 11-27.

Those heavenly boyz of WellStrung return to Café Istanbul (2372 St. Claude Ave.) on May 11 and 12 with a world premiere of their new show after two of them, Chris Marchant (second violin) and Trevor Wadleigh (cello), appeared as TeamWellStrung on CBS’ The Amazing Race. Not sure how they did, but you’re sure to have a winning time with this singing string quartet.

Mark Cortale also presents “new” episodes of The Golden Girls (May 18-20) with Varla Jean Merman, Bob Edes, Brian Johnston, Michael Sulli-

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van, Ricky Graham and Brooklyn Shaffer, which will be at Café Istanbul as well.

Further down St. Roch, the surrealist physical comedy show Falling Awake plays at Art Klub (1941 Arts St.) May 11-13. Canadian clown Nayana Fielkov and American circus artist Matthew “Poki” McCorkle cross borders to collaborate on this piece about love, dreams, flash floods, salt, and the questionable nature of reality all in 60 minutes.

Not sure how surreal it’ll be, but Goat in the Road Productions promises a micro-festival of genre-bending performance work in its FORGE Festival at The Fortress of Lushington (2215 Burgundy St.). From May 11 to 20, Darci Fulcher’s The Distance of Sound, in which one’s past memories can be altered, will play in repertoire with Dylan Hunter’s The Night With Mr. Bismuth, who brings you premium content, tailored specifically to your viewing needs. There’s also Shakesbeer (30 minutes of tragedy/beer), improv with Cecile Monteyne & Chris Kaminstein, and an interactive installation

by Jen Davis.

Also interactive will be NEW NOISE’s Jubilee, which traverses a hundred years in the life of one family on Alabama’s Mobile Bay. Audiences will join the cast for a family supper that seeks to untangle the knot of white Southern identity, unspooling threads of personal ancestry, Southern duality, and the ravages of systemic white supremacy. The dinner will be served at Catapult (609 St. Ferdinand St.) and the conversation goes from May 16 until May 26.

Southern Rep will be giving the regional premiere of Robert Schenkkan’s Tony-winning All the Way which encompasses an approximately one

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year period in Lyndon Johnson’s life beginning in November 1963 when Johnson was elevated to the Presidency after John Kennedy’s assassination.

Schenkkan’s script covers the fight for the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Democratic convention that year, and continues up to the 1964 presidential election itself.

In Schenkkan’s view, Johnson was a wheeler-dealer who could put on a different face depending on whom he was talking to. When he wanted to get something, he could slather on the flattery; this would be off-putting if it wasn’t generally in pursuit of worthy causes.

Despite some unnecessary monologs that Schenkkan gives LBJ, when I saw All the Way on Broadway in 2014, I found it to be a fascinating chronicle, grippingly told. You can see it at Loyola University’s Marquette Theatre, May 16-June 3.

After seeing Dina Martina in 2016, I wrote “Prior to her debut here last year, I had no idea what to expect from Dina Martina. This time around, I suspected--and hoped--we’d get more of her brilliant anarchic humor. I wasn’t disappointed.

“I’m not sure if Dina Martina is a stand-up, drag, or cabaret performer, or maybe a “performance artiste”, or all of the above, but she’s wonderfully witty and fabulously bizarre and I can’t wait till she comes back here again.”

Alas, I was out of town when she performed here last year and I’ll be in Boston on May 22 when Dina Martina: Fine Avec Me plays at One Eyed Jack’s (615 Toulouse St.). Shoot me now. I’m also gonna miss Daniel Nardicio’s Mr. Nude Orleans on May 20.

Shoot me again. But if you go to either of these events, please tell me all about them afterwards.

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Snap Paparazzi: Kocktail Bunc Bowling League Photos Photos by Bryan Lowrie

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Moments in Gay New Orleans History: The Glory Days of N. Rampart Street

by Frank Perez Email: f.perez@sbcglobal.net

The Glory Days of N. Rampart Street Travis’s. Menefee’s. TTs West.

Finale II. Alice Brady’s.

Marti’s Restaurant. Restaurant Jonathan. In the early 1980s, all these N. Rampart Street haunts were home to a vibrant gay nightlife.

Throughout its history, the French Quarter has given rise to multiple centers of gravity for gay life—clusters of bars, restaurants, and other business owned and frequented by gay folk.

Today one thinks of Bourbon and St. Ann and the “fruit loop,” but in years past there were other gay loci. In the 1950s, the corner of Bourbon and St. Peter Streets was the epicenter of gay life in the Quarter, especially on Mardi Gras. Anchoring the intersection were Dixie’s Bar of Music and the Bourbon House. A few steps away, the side bar at Pat O’Biens was popular among “confirmed bachelors.”

Iberville Street in the early 1970s hosted Wanda’s, Gene’s Hideaway, the Midship, and the Up Stairs Lounge, not to mention nearby Exchange Place Alley, a long established favorite cruising ground. Elsewhere, in the 1980s, another loop of sorts across the Quarter included The Golden Lantern, The

Great American Refuge, Lucille’s and Friend, the Mississippi River Bottom, Jewel’s Tavern, and Café Sbisa. And even today, on the edges of the old Tango Belt (and Storyville before it), the world’s oldest profession still thrives in the “Financial District.”

But of all these nexus’, none could compare to Rampart Street in the early 1980s. Circumstances both national and local gave rise to a special moment in time. At the dawn of the Reagan Era, when AIDS was but a mere, distant blip on the radar, a confidence and hopefulness was in the air. The sexual revolutionaries of the 1970s had emerged victorious and the economic malaise of the country was dissipating.

Locally, the horror of the Up Stairs Lounge arson, a seminal moment in local gay history, was ten years in the past. The hugely successful protest of Anita Bryant’s visit to New Orleans was fresh in people’s minds, and Gay Carnival was at its zenith.

In the early 1970s, Travis Hickman, Clifford Rednour, and Ron Smith opened Travis’s Bar at 834 N. Rampart, which, after the Club My-O-My burned down, became the city’s premiere venue for drag, or “female impersonation,” as it was still sometimes called. There one could enjoy the likes of Rowena, Alotta Mulatta, Mister Boobie, Ginger

Snap, Adrian St. Clair, Gilbertine Livaudais, Sable Starr, Tarrah, and Donnie Jay. Two blocks up, at 642 N. Rampart, was Finale II, the reincarnation of Finale, which was originally located at Royal and Ursulines Streets in a building owned by Dave and Doris DiVicente. In the 1960s, Dave and Doris ran a restaurant above the bar, which was managed by George Wilson and Nick Donovan. Daisy Mae, a sassy queen who owned a junk shop in the 800 block of N. Rampart, was a fixture at the first Finale.

Alice Brady’s bar at 700 N. Rampart provided lesbians a place of their own, even if gay men were welcome too. If lesbians tired of Brady’s, they could easily walk a block to Ms. Kitty’s at 740 Burgundy Street. A little further away were two more lesbian bars— Charlene’s at 940 Elysian Fields and Pino’s Club at 621 Elysian Fields.

Back on Rampart Street, men could immerse themselves in leather culture at TT’s West (820 N. Rampart) or enjoy the upscale environment of Menefee’s—a “Restaurant-Bar-Health & Swim Club at 1123 N. Rampart.

Menefee’s was short-lived but it was the crown jewel of Rampart Street while it lasted. Opened by Jerry Menefee and his partner Tex Knight, both of whom were former bartenders at Café Lafitte in Exile, Menefee’s was an attempt to outdo what they had done a decade earlier with the Bourbon Pub. There was also Jonathan’s and Marti’s, two restaurants on N. Rampart that served as the twin pillars of what Howard P. Smith describes “gay café society.” Restaurant Jonathan

was opened by Jack Cosner and Jay Schwab and in addition to serving excellent food also served as a temple of art deco décor. On opening night, the flamboyant queen and fixture in the Quarter’s gay demimonde Erte showed up in white fur. Erte, who would become a regular at Jonathan’s, was an artist and fashion designer who championed the art deco movement.

Down the street, Tennessee Williams could be found almost every day at Marti’s. Williams lived virtually across the street at 1014 Dumaine.

Opened in 1971 by Martin Shambra, Marti’s foreshadowed the glittering “gay café society” that would characterize the early 1980s.

The glitter, of course faded. 1984 seems to have been the turning point.

Marti’s closed in 1984. Jerry Menefee died that year as well. The bathhouse was raided, and a serial killer was targeting gay men in the Quarter. The specter of AIDS was looming larger and larger.

Jonathan’s shuttered its doors in 1986. Travis’s eventually became Wolfendale’s which became Starlight by the Park which became Michael’s on the Park which became Grand Pre’s.

Brady’s would become Fat Jerry’s before becoming the Ninth Circle and its current incarnation as The Black Penny. Menefee’s, TT’s West, and Finale II also faded away.

Other bars would come and go along N. Rampart Street and the strip’s fortunes would rise and fall, but nothing can compare to the plethora of “gayness” that was N. Rampart Street in the early 1980s.

30 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Commentary by Frank Perez Bestiality Much?

Citizens of Louisiana can rest easy; the legislature is tackling the most pressing issue facing the state— bestiality.

The State Senate recently passed SB 236, which removes the crime of sexually abusing an animal from the state’s “crimes against nature” statute.

Currently, bestiality is part of the criminal code’s sodomy section. SB 236 would make bestiality a crime unto itself.

Background: the sodomy law historically been used to legally persecute gay men.

Ten senators—all republican—voted against the bill. Conservatives, especially the Christian variety, see the legislation as an attempt to repeal the state’s sodomy laws, which are still on the books despite being ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court.

In 2003, the Supreme Court handed down a landmark ruling in Lawrence vs. Texas that invalidated sodomy laws across the nation. Since then, the

Louisiana Legislature has failed to repeal the old “crimes against nature” laws, despite several attempts to do so. Why? Because knuckle-dragging republican solons don’t want to appear “soft on homosexuality.”

At present, bestiality is technically legal in Louisiana because the statute that criminalizes it has been declared unconstitutional. This constitutes a loophole for people who are caught having sex with animals.

Consider the case of Celina Cabrera, a Shreveport woman who likes having sex with dogs. According to Julia Breaux of the Louisiana Humane Society, the unconstitutional statute posed problems for the prosecutorial team.

(Aside: Cabrera eventually pled guilty, perhaps out of fear the video she made of herself copulating with the dog would be released).

So, just to be clear—bestiality is currently legal in Louisiana because the law against it is included in the sodomy statute which has been deemed unconstitutional. An attempt is currently underway to separate bestial-

ity from the unconstitutional law and make it a crime unto itself. Republican Christians oppose this effort because it might make repealing the sodomy laws, which are no longer valid, easier.

Makes perfect sense.

In case you missed that—Republican legislators hate gay men so much,

they are willing to keep bestiality legal.

The fact that these assholes would sacrifice the welfare of animals out of a twisted nostalgia for a law that was once used to persecute gay men is sick. And just one of a thousand reasons no one should ever vote republican.

Ambush Publishing’s Gay Easter Parade Raises $13,082.66 for Food for Friends This year, the Gay Easter Parade raised a total of $21,268.37 and after expenses we were able to give Food for Friends a total of $13,082.66! We met with Noel and Rodney of CrescentCare this past Wednesday and gave them the monies from the GEP. Here is a breakdown of revenue and expenses from this year’s parade:

GEP Revenue Parade

$2,015.00

Sponsors

$6,750.00

Golden Lantern Fundraiser

$1,460.00

Corner Pocket Fundraiser

$600.00

Double Play Fundraiser

$1,653.00

Four Seasons Fundraiser

$2,627.00

Oz Fundraiser

$1,313.00

Bunnies in the Big Easy

$4,850.37

Total Revenue

$21,268.37

Additional Donations

In addition, Ambush Publishing donated the parade banner ($320.54) and Grand Marshall/Sponsor/Board Member pins ($1198.91). Golden Lantern donated the food served at their fundraiser. Double Play donated the food served at their fundraiser. Bourbon Pride donated the designer underwear for Corner Pocket fundraiser,

Revenues minus Parade Expenses has now raised a whopping $299,924.79 for Charity the past 17 years!

GEP Expenses Parade Permit

$100.25

Parade Insurance

$1,142.93

Parade - 3rd Line Band

$1,375.00

Parade - Pair of dice tumblers band

$1,000.00

Parade cleanup

$1,100.00

NOPD

$2,550.00

Bunnies in the Big Easy

$500.00

Food for Four Season Fundraiser

$417.53

Total Expenses

$8,185.71

TOTAL RAISED FOR FOOD FOR FRIENDS: $13,082.66 www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 31

Loving Fearlessly

by Pastor Allie Rowland, Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans (MCCNO) Email: alisan.rowland42@gmail.com Website: www.mccneworleans.com On Friday I was fortunate enough to be able to attend Jazz Fest. And as someone who has always loved music, Jazz Fest is one of my favorite festivals. As I was listening to Sting, I heard him sing these words “You could say I lost my faith in science and progress, You could say I lost my belief in the holy Church…” Have you ever questioned what you really believe? When I went through my own process of questioning…when I doubted whether what I believed in was true, there was one truth I realized I deeply believed in. I believe in love. That even if everything else was gone I believed in love, in the power of love to overcome absolutely everything. At times that truth has been comforting. But at other times it’s been challenging. Because that means that if I really believe that…to live my truth means to do my best to be loving.

I recently discovered a quote from the Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu: “Being deeply loved by someone gives you

strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” These are words I have experienced as true. I’m guessing you have as well. Loving others always seems to require confronting our fears.

Fears can haunt us. I’m guessing that by this point in your life, you know what your deeper fears are. Often they just sit in the back of our minds lurking.

Sometimes we convince ourselves our fears are true. In our more rational moments, we can remind ourselves that our fears are simply fears and not reality.

But sometimes our fears seem to be in charge of our decisions. Our fears often make it difficult for us to love others. Whenever we reach out to someone in love, we put ourselves at risk.

We fear being vulnerable and being hurt. Possibly we will be betrayed by someone we try to help. Possibly we will not be loved in return. We have the scars from when we’ve been wounded.

Sometimes we decide to protect our-

selves and we withdraw from anyone who might hurt us. We build a protective fortress around ourselves, and we carefully decide who gets let in the gate. I’m not suggesting we should never protect ourselves…But I am suggesting that loving fearlessly is worth the risk!

None of us can avoid having fears.

Fear is a human emotion and a part of our physiology. But, we can strive not to make decisions that are based in fear. Believing in love doesn’t mean we will never be hurt, but it does mean that love will give us the strength to face whatever comes in our lives. We cannot avoid fear, but we can ask ourselves when we are making a decision if fear is motivating our decision. And if fear is leading us, we can change our decision. It is unlikely that any decision we make out of fear is a loving decision.

Do you remember the last decision you made? Was fear a factor in your and were you able to overcome that fear? Fear is pervasive in our lives.

It tells us that we can’t be, or have, enough. It tells us we can’t have love

and we don’t deserve it. The only thing that can successfully combat fear is love. Because it is love that reminds us that we are enough. We are worthy of love.

Love reminds us that there is always reason to hope. That fear doesn’t have to have the last answer. And that fear does not get to be in control of our lives. No, it is not easy. Because nobody can be perfect for us, no matter how much we would like them to be. And that truth is just something we have to accept. My neighbor said this…”if I could achieve one thing in life, I would learn how to unconditionally love someone.” Personally, I think that is why we are all here. To learn how to unconditionally love each other. To learn how to respect each other when we disagree. To learn how to love even when we feel hurt. To learn the value of choosing love over fear. Personally, I want love, not fear, to be in control of my life. I know that it isn’t always, but I know that when love is in control, that’s when I’m at my happiest. That’s when I know the most peace. What a good reason to love fearlessly!

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio Photos by Tony Leggio

At SIPPS Drag Bingo in Gulfport

32 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

NOAGE Membership Party and Elections New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders (NOAGE) recently hosted a Membership Party at the Drifter Hotel. Elections for the Board of Directors were also held at the event. The newly-elected Board members are Tony Leggio (Vice President) and Annalise Pardew. The current Board also includes Jason Waguespack (President), Kenn Mitchell (Secretary), Mike Hardie (Treasurer), Paul Metoyer, Jason Tudor, Katherine Hoover, LaQuan Fields, and Glenn Reames.

Jason Waguespack was living in the French Quarter with his partner when he began to realize that the lack of services for older LGBT adults in New Orleans was a serious problem.

“Every day when we walked the dogs,” he said, “we would pass our elderly neighbor who spent his day sitting at his window just looking outside. We

got to know him and he’d lived a fascinating life, but he had lost his partner years before, and he was alone with no family. He just spent his days staring out of that window.”

LGBT older adults are more likely than their peers to live in poverty, to be single, childless, and to live alone. Their support networks also tend to diminish more over time. This often means that LGBT older adults are unable to remain in their homes and communities of choice when their physical health declines. But moving into a long-term care facility can be a terrifying prospect. Many LGBT older adults are going back into the closet to avoid being ostracized and bullied by their peers, and mistreated by staff, in nursing homes.

LGBT older adults also experience unique healthcare disparities. Overall,

they have worse physical health than their straight and cisgender peers, and are more likely to be disabled. They also have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. For survivors of the AIDS epidemic, the challenges of aging can be especially tough. While better treatments have vastly extended their life expectancies, the illness can make other diseases associated with aging (such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease) more difficult to manage.

To combat these problems, Waguespack and Jason Tudor (then the Associate State Director of Community Outreach for AARP Louisiana) organized a steering committee of concerned local citizens and healthcare providers. As a result of that committee’s efforts, NOAGE was born. In

2015, NOAGE was awarded 501(c)(3) status and hired its Executive Director, Jim Meadows, LMSW. Since then, NOAGE has continued to expand its services, and has grown by leaps and bounds.

NOAGE’s mission is to ensure that LGBT older adults in the New Orleans area can live their best lives possible, with the good health, dignity, and respect that they deserve. They host monthly Coffee Talks, Movie Nights, Potluck Dinners, and a wide variety of other events and services. NOAGE also provides LGBT cultural competency trainings for local healthcare professionals, organizations, and institutions. For more information, visit their website at www.noagenola.org, or call (504)517-2345.

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 33

A Community within Communities: How can we love those that we hate?

by The Very Rev. Bill Terry+ Email: fr.bill@stannanola.org “No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us... There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us. Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.” From the Epistle known as 1 John The Evangelist John is likely the “beloved disciple” of Biblical account.

He was by some accounts an eye witness to the Death and subsequent resurrection events. He was a mystic, a theologian, and prolific writer asserting his views of Jesus in his Gospel and using Jewish tradition in his apocryphal work The Revelation to John. He also wrote some letters to the newly forming churches of the Greco-Roman world.

The above is a quote from one of those letters. He tackled great controversies that were arising in the newly forming faith that would be called Christianity.

He likely wrote most of his work in the late 1st Century. He is said to have been quite young perhaps the youngest of the disciples that followed Christ.

The challenge for the early churches to whom he wrote, among many other challenges, was in identifying genuine Christians. Just because someone claims to be Christian does not make them a Christian. I can claim to be Pope but I am certainly not the Pope.

You can claim to have been at Woodstock but is that a spurious claim? So, John gave these little churches that were growing like wildfire a way to test the authenticity of Christ claimers and posers.

Two key phrases appear one test is that if a person claims to be Christian but hate “[they] are liars!” The next phrase which might be problematic is, “The commandment we have from him [Jesus] is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.” So, is a brother and sister confined to only those in the tribe? Is it meant only to define “authentic Christians” or is it more expansive than that?

I believe based on the evidence found in the New Testament that it is more expansive and less restrictive. Now I could go into a long proof text about why I believe this to be true but at the end of the day you won’t want to read that (I am surprised that you’ve made

it this far) and it will only fuel contention. The bottom line is I believe Jesus and his followers, authentic followers, to be lovers and to even love their enemies. Wow that last one is hard isn’t it? So how do we love those whom we despise?

A woman whom I know well and whom I have the highest regard I believe her to be the future of the Episcopal Church in its wizened quest for radical inclusion came to be very rattled. She encountered an “evangelical” a biblical “traditionalist” and conservative who wanted it seemed to promote her faith to Palestinians and Jews alike in an upcoming pilgrimage to the Holy Land. That type of evangelism did not sit well with my very Episcopalian liberal friend. Nor should it have. Force feeding faith creates no faith at all. She was angry and it brought out all of her dislike, perhaps even hatred, for all things “Christian Right” with their white crosses dotting the country side in the south. The racism, homophobia, and judgmental regimes of the fundamentalists; it brought out her anger. So, having recently read John’s Epistle in church she was at wits end. What to do with that “love their brothers and sisters also” piece?

In Sundays sermon I pointed out the we need to think of brothers and sisters less in the metaphorical way maybe. We are an age of proof and of genomes and of science and technology. Metaphor is becoming passé. So, let us look at science as a first step to this “brother-sister” thing: “In human genetics, the Mitochondrial Eve is the matrilineal most recent common ancestor (MRCA) of all currently living humans, i.e., the most recent woman from whom all living humans descend in an unbroken line purely through their mothers, and through the mothers of those mothers, back until all lines converge on one woman.” Credit Wikipedia While this is a vast subject with many facets the bottom line is that it would seem that we can all trace our heritages collectively to a singular woman. Pop science says that this woman was likely found in central Africa. We know that millennium of migrations and mutations occurred over thousands of years of evolution within our own specie (yes most Episcopalians believe in evolution it only makes sense and is not contrary to scripture).

So, yep, genetically we are all brothers and sisters. If this is so, and I believe it is, we have an obligation to love everyone. That is so hard sometimes.

Our capacity to love our enemies

is not born into us it is something that is counter intuitive and something that must be taught, as John was doing, and learned as we are asked to do.

Showing a degree of outward appearances is a starting point: courtesy, respect, generosity, and tolerance are all forms of at least showing a form of love. Even if inside we are seething. It is a starting point.

I once watched Louie Crew, a well known LGBTQ activist, sit across from what we would call his enemy. He did so with a high degree of equanimity and grace. He did not get sucked into their anxiety he quietly and respectfully stood his ground without anger or apparent hatred. He was rock solid. That is love. I am not sure that I have that same capacity and I don’t know if you do either. If you do, you are special and gift to us all, show us how to love? If not, know this, that if you at least start, like my dear friend, to be troubled by the feelings you have it is a start. Annotating John’s work I would say that intention counts for something in this “love” thing. The key, however, is not to stay in good intentions but to allow those intentions to transform us. We do so by catching ourselves!

Catch yourself before you explode and take a moment. Taking a moment of silence and breath. Deeply breath cleansing breaths (or do a shot of cactus juice). Try to be aware if their anger, their deceit, their need to control and is it starting to be your anger, your deceit, your need to control. If so, you are giving THEM the POWER. That would be a shame for those of us that

want to learn how to “love our brothers and sisters.” We also tend to expand our hurts cast at us from our enemies.

We start to use phrases like “you ALWAYS” and “those people” so our anger expands and takes on new ground that it need not. Like Louie, stand rock solid in equanimity. Or at least behave like Louie. Our behavior will begin as an outward sign and perhaps it may become an inward way of feeling.

Do not hear me say that we should put up with hate. Do not hear me say that we should in any way approve of haters because as the song says, “haters are gonna hate.” So as written by John the Evangelist and as he advises test them, do they hate or love? If they seem to love or to show that capacity and inclination they might be a Christian. If they say things not at the expense of others but rather focus on what is good in others, they might be a Christian. If they show courtesy as a way of behaving, they might be a Christian. If they fling insults and judgment, like John says, they aren’t.

So, love and how we interact is a process and I suggest that it starts with courtesy. Love is a process that can be developed and adopted into our spirit and who we are. Love has many sides to it but it always shows generosity.

Love values the lover. Love does not give power to haters but defeats haters by depriving them of what they seek hatred in return. Remember the picture of the young black boy hugging the police officer with tears in his eyes? Maybe that is the pictorial metaphor for this script. “They will know us by our love.”

34 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · May 8 - 21, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

www.GayMardiGras.com 路 www.GayEasterParade.com 路 May 8 - 21, 2018 路 The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com 路 35

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