Ambush Magazine Volume 36 Issue 17

THE OFFICIAL GAY MAGAZINE OF THE GULF SOUTHâ„¢

A Biweekly Publication Celebrating LGBTQ Life, Music & Culture Since 1982 VOLUME 36 ISSUE 17

TUESDAY, August 14, 2018

Pre-Southern Decadence

www.AMBUSHMAG.com

THE “OFFICIAL” DISH

by TJ ACOSTA, PUBLISHER

Dear Ambush Nation, Another Red Dress Run is in the books and from the sea of red at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann on Saturday, it would seem that everyone had a good time. The bars in the quarter were packed and the Oz Red Dress Dance Party was a success with people on the dancefloor all day and throughout the night. It has always amazed me how many “events” we have in this city and how so many people participate. To our friends along the Gulf Coast, we encourage you to mark your calendars and head to Nola for next year’s Red Dress Run. There is always a party in New Orleans and we look forward to sharing our drinks and debauchery with our friends along the coast. And if you’re looking for a fun weekend some time soon, there is always Southern Decadence which is only a few weeks away.

SOUTHERN DECADENCE What can we say about Southern Decadence other than thank goodness it’s almost here! With just over 2 weeks to go until the BIGGEST GAY WEEKEND IN NEW ORLEANS, there are still

several fundraisers you can attend to help support the official Southern Decadence charities. This year’s charities are Mr. Friendly and the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana. For more information you can follow the Official Southern Decadence Facebook page @SouthernDecadenceNola. Special thanks to this year’s Grand Marshals Frank Perez and Adikus Sulpizi who have been working non-stop on fundraising the last several months. Not only do the SD fundraisers help raise money to put on the parade and for the official SD charities, but they also help support our local bars and bartenders during what is a sometimes slow and always way too hot part of the summer.

Attending these fundraisers are a great way to be a part of the community and to see friends, both new and old. On behalf of Ambush and all the host bars and bartenders of a SD fundraiser, we simply say Thank You to everyone who has attended to make these events a success.

And as always, Ambush will provide you with a guide to all the action.

Our next issue will be the biggest of the year and will include The Official

Inside this Issue of Ambush Southern Decadence News Sample of Southern Decadence Weekend Events 8-10

6-7 10-14

Snap Paparazzi: Oz New Orleans

11

Moments in Gay New Orleans History: The Two Sides of Decadence

12

Bartender of the Month: Mark David

13

Tricentennial Profiles in History: Don Andres Almonester

13

Frank Perez’s History Courses Now Offered at Loyola University

13

NEW ORLEANS COOLINARY RESTAURANTS Restaurant Review: Madam’s Modern Kitchen + Bar at the New B on Canal Hotel Under the Gaydar: New Orleans Hot Happenings

14-18 20 19-27

Ambush on the Road

27

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

27

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with TJ at the Red Dress Run

28

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio

28 29

Party Down

30-32

Sports Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio Snap Paparazzi: The Corner Pocket LGBT Owned & Friendly Business Directory

33 33 34-35

5 Ways to Manage Investors’ Top Fear: Healthcare Expenses

36

Snap Paparazzi: Sipp’s Bar Gulfport

37

Trodding the Boards

38-39

Conflict All Around

40

One night only, Chris Harder is Porn To Be A Star

41

Coca Mesa to Headline Southern Decadence Drag Brunch at Brennan’s

41

Book Review: The Sparsholt Affair by Alan Hollinghurst

41

A Community within Communities: Be Nice or Leave! 42

42

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

Southern Decadence Guide. We will have a listing of all the Official Southern Decadence Events along with our favorite places to eat in the French Quarter, Marigny and Bywater. We are so excited to be a part of this amazing event. Any businesses that are interested in taking an ad in the Official Southern Decadence Guide or having their events listed, please email Ambush at info@ambushpublishing.com.

COCKTAILS FOR A CAUSE The Gulf South Chamber of Commerce is having its annual summer fundraiser on Sunday August 19th from 12 pm to 3 pm at The Basin Lakeview. This fundraiser is a benefit for PFLAG New Orleans, an organization which helps promote the health and well-being of the LGBTQ community and their families. A $20 ticket gets you admission, unlimited chances to win door prizes and food from Jambalaya Girl! PFLAG has a scholarship program which recognizes outstanding LGBT students from Louisiana. Since 1989 PFLAG has given over $500,000 to more than 450 gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered students from Louisiana. For more information go to www.pflagno.org MARK YOUR CALENDARS Girls Gone Broadway, a fundraiser for the Krewe of Amon-Ra will take place on September 15th at Oz New Orleans. Tickets to the show are a $25 donation to the Krewe which will include entry into the show, auction items and some light snacks. This coming Mardi Gras will be Amon-Ra’s 54th annual ball!

Belle Reve Nola’s Silver Anniversary Brunch & Tea Dance will be on Sunday, October 14, from 12 to 4 pm at the Audubon Tea Room. Tickets start at $70 and can be purchased at www.bellerevenola.org. Belle Reve New Orleans provides permanent and transitional housing along with full support services to adults and families living with HIV. The 32nd annual Art Against Aids gala is a fundraiser of CrescentCare to help support men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS in the New Orleans Community. This year’s event will take place on World AIDS Day, December 1 at Club XLIV - Superdome.

Art Against AIDS began with local art students making holiday ornaments to sell and raise money. Today, the gala features some of the finest art and food the city has to offer. Be on the lookout for more information in the coming weeks. For more information email Chris.leonard@crescentcare.org

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©

LETTER TO THE EDITOR info@ambushpublishing.com CIRCULATION

Alabama - Mobile; Florida - Pensacola; Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Slidell, Monroe, Alexandria; Mississippi - Bay St. Louis, Biloxi

PUBLISHER TJ Acosta EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Reed Wendorf SENIOR EDITOR Brian Sands CONTRIBUTORS Brian Sands, Crescent City Sports, Frank Perez, Jim Meadows, Pastor Allie Rowland, Persana Shoulders, Rev. Bill Terry, Rodney Thoulion, Scot Billeaudeau, Shane Womack & Tony Leggio LOCAL ADVERTISING sales@ambushpublishing.com Reed Wendorf Shane Womack Jim Tomeny NATIONAL ADVERTISING 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 · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Monica-Synclaire Kennedy’s fundraiser for New Orleans Southern Decadence INC.

$1700

GOAL

$5,000

PUMPED for Decadence?

Play Girlz

hosted by Gia GiaVanni

Fridays 10–11:30pm

The Music of

Senator Ken Fridays 7:30–9:30pm

Friday, August 31ic,ated to ed PlayGirlz will be nd Decadence all past Southerrshals Grand Ma

Divas R Us The Music of the

Vanessa Carr Band Saturdays 7:30–9:30pm

starring Monica

Synclaire-Kennedy

Saturdays 10–11:30pm

Golden

The Official Home of Southern Decadence.

The Half-Assed Straight Boys

Sundays 3:00–5:00pm

Jubilee: Dragging for Jesus with Reba Douglas

Sundays 5:00–7:00pm

BEST LGBT Q BAR

Best Happy Hour in the Quar ter!

THE

Lantern

1239 Royal St. New Orleans • facebook.com/GoldenLanternBar

HAPPY HOUR 8AM – 8PM DAILY

N E V E R A C O V E R AT THE GOLDEN LANTERN

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 5

Southern Decadence Parade Registration Now Open Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com

Registration is now open for groups wanting to march in the 2018 Southern Decadence Parade. Last year, over 70 groups (consisting of over 1,000 people) marched in the parade and Parade Captains Steven Mora and Chad Boutte expect even higher numbers this year. To register as a participant,

email Southerndecadenceparadecaptain@gmail.com or call 594-239-9745.

There is no charge to participate in the parade. The deadline for registration is August 19.

Photo credit: Ryan Hodgson-Rigsbee

Upcoming Southern Decadence Fundraising Events Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com

Friday, August 10 Boys in the Shower at Grand Pre’s Saturday, August 11 Pajama Party at Cutters Thursday, August 16 Cocktails and Queer History Friday, August 17 Boy Auction at Good Friends Saturday, August 18 Car Wash at Café Lafitte’s in Exile Sunday, August 19 Spaghetti Dinner at the Friendly Bar Sunday, August 19 Beer Bust at Rawhide Friday, August 31 Former Grand Marshal’s Show at Allways Lounge Saturday, September 1 Glamarama at Café Istanbul Sunday, September 2 46th Annual Southern Decadence Parade Monday, September 3 Survivor’s Bar Crawl at Corner Pocket All monies raised will be processed through the Southern Decadence Financial Oversight Committee (Chairperson SDGM XLII Jeff Palmquist, SDGM XLII Felicia Philips, and SDGM XLI Misti Ates-Gaither).

Southern Decadence Fundraising Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com Fundraising for Southern Decadence 2018 is underway and SDGMs Adikus Sulpizi and Frank Perez have already set a record having raised nearly $25,000. The following is an accounting of funds received by the Southern Decadence Financial Oversight Committee, which administers the money raised throughout the summer and consists of three former SDGMs: Jeffrey Palmquist, Misti Gaither, and Felicia Philips.

DONATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS

Tropical Isle $2,500.00 Black Penny $1,000.00 The Double Play $1,000.00 Two Chicks Walking Tours $1,000.00 Harrah’s Casino $1,000.00 QT Pie Boutique $1000.00 Café Lafitte in Exile $833.34 Good Friends $833.33 Rawhide $833.33 Tomy Acosta $500.00 Phil Barbee $500.00 Lost Love Lounge $500.00 City Wholesale Liquor Co. $500.00 NOLA Poboys $500.00 Brennan’s $500.00 Dr. Robert McWhirter $250.00 Blue60 Guest House $250.00 Rolling Elvi, Inc. $250.00 Mr. Friendly $200.00 Helene Berot $200.00 Major Tom & Johnny $100.00 Starlight Lounge $100.00

EVENTS

Press Party at the Bourbon Pub $1,172.00 Black Penny Art Auction $1,125.00 Decadence Gets Dirtyat Phoenix $1,126.00 Grand Pre’s Potato Salad Contest $340.00 Potluck / Auction at Double Play $800.00 Jeff & Coca’s Pool Party $1,160.00 Heroes and Villains at Allways $1,693.00 Gay Appreciation Awards $1,205.55 Buffet & Auction at Cosimo’s $481.00 Let’s Get Cheezy for Decadence $723.00 Leather and Lace at the Page $400.00 Cocktails and Bites with Tony $363.00

Total $24,938.55 In addition to the $24,938.55 listed above, SDGMs Adikus Sulpizi and Frank Perez have also secured over $36,000 in in-kind donations from Skyy Vodka, Bud Light, Tours By Steven, Two Guys Cutting Hair, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, Ambush Magazine, former SDGMs Jeffrey Palmquist & Coca Mesa, Starlight Lounge, Double Scorpio VHS Cleaner, Peter Eschete, Glamour Puss, and Quartermaster Deli.

Monies raised after parade expenses will be donated to the official charities of Southern Decadence 2018—Mr. Friendly and the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana.

6 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Southern Decadence Sponsorships Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com

SDGMs XLIV Frank Perez and Adikus Sulpizi would like to thank the following businesses and individuals for being Official Sponsors of Southern Decadence 2018:

Presenting Ambush Magazine, Bud Light, Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, Skyy Vodka, Tours by Steven, Two Guys Cutting Hair Platinum Misti & Catherine Gaither, The Official Lesbian Mafia of New Orleans, Jeff Palmquist & Coca Mesa, Tropical Isle, Wood Enterprises (Café Lafitte in Exile, Good Friends, Rawhide) Gold Black Penny, Double Play, Double Scorpio VHS Cleaner, Peter Eschete, Two Chicks Walking Tours, Harrah’s, QT Pie Boutique, Starlight Lounge Silver Tomy Acosta, Phil “I don’t ever want to be ordinary” Barbee, City Wholesale Liquor, Grand Pre’s, Lost Love Lounge, Quartermaster, Cosimo’s, NOLA Poboys, Brennan’s Bronze Helene Berot, Blue60 Guest House, Glamour Puss, Dr. Robert McWhirter, Team Friendly, Rolling Elvi, Inc.

Beautifully Renovated Historic Cottage 5036 N. Rampart St. ∙ 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1760 SF ∙ $239,000 This recently renovated home offers an expansive patio, ample yard space, off street parking and tons of natural light. Hardwood floors, tall ceilings and crown molding create the authentic Creole Cottage feel while offering an updated open floor plan. The master suite has a large walk-in closet, georgous bath and opens onto the patio. +1 504-777-1773 ∙ Michael.Styles@evusa.com

Pearl Major Tom & Johnny Sponsorships are still available through August. For more information on being an Official Southern Decadence 2018 Sponsor, please contact SDGMs XLIV Frank Perez or Adikus Sulpizi at frankearlperez@gmail.com or adikussulpizi@gmail.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.

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 7

SOUTHERN DECADENCE XLIV Mark Your Calendars. Sampling of Events.

Grand Marshalls: Frank Perez and Adikus Sulpizi Official Theme: House of BourbonUnleash your Beast Official Colors: Royal Blue and Canary Yellow Official Song: “18th Century Waltz” Fuck Me Remix Official Charities: LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana and Mr. Friendly/ Team Friendly NOLA THURSDAY, August 30 9PM CAKE is an annual 4-day party during Southern Decadence Festival. Book a room to dance all night and recoup all day with special code CAKE for a decadent deal. More info: http:// threekeysnola.com/cake/2018/ - Ace Hotel New Orleans 9PM Infamous Southern Decadence Blackout Party with crowning of 12th King of Decadence - Rawhide 2010 9PM Nasty Pig Underwear Party. Atlas Grant and Bennett Anthony (NSFW) on stage. Jagermeister giveaways, Phoenix 10PM, Mrs. Kasha Davis (Season 7 Rupaul’s Drag Race) and her star studded cast perform.

VIP reception at 8PM, sponsored by the Krewe of Petronius. Tickets at eventbrite.com. - Mags 940 11PM Kick Off Southern Decadence with USDA Prime Aged Beef Contest with $100 cash prize. - Good Friends Bar 12AM Dicks of Decadence Contest with prizes for 1st thru 3rd Place, upstairs Balcony Bar - Cafe Lafitte in Exile 12AM Welcome Party & Big Dick Contest - Bourbon Pub & Parade (801 Bourbon) FRIDAY, August 31st 10AM New Orleans Pride Run+Walk benefiting BreakOUT, 9AM registration/packet pick-up, The pre and post-race activities are located at the Mandeville Shed near the Elysian Fields entrance of Crescent Park (approximately 2300 North Peters St.) - http://runnotc.org/races/2018/pride. shtml 2–6PM Carnival of Bear - Bear Pool Party (clothing optional) - Matt and Dusty’s pool (714 France St. - Bywater) - $99 entry (limited to first 200 guest). Open bar with top shelf liquor

CAKE Ace Hotel New Orleans presents

a party during Southern Decadence

08.30–09.03 featuring:

Horse Meat Disco and more

threekeysnola.com @aceneworleans

8 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

24 HOURS

NO COVER

941 ELYSIAN FIELDS

GO TO PHOENIXBARNOLA.COM FOR TIMES AND MORE DECADENCE EVENTS

AUGUST 30

Thursday

a n n o g e k a m you t a e w s Underwear Night and get 20% off all Nasty Pig underwear in the store

AUGUST 31

Friday

Our Block Party is famous around the globe! Party in the street with sexy men!

SEPTEMBER 1

Saturday Another night of the Block Party, and the Lords’ Decadent Behavior Party

SEPTEMBER 2

Sunday nt a r G s a l At

ony h t n A t Bennet

Renegade Bears’ Bear Breakfast, XXL: The Party and the Block Party!

Party with Atlas Grant and Bennett Anthony at the exclusive event of Southern Decadence. XXL: The Party gives you access to an open bar and the sexiest men in town. Scan the QR code to buy your tickets now! www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 9

and Carnival Bites. http://www.nolabearspoolparty.com/ 7:30PM Greetings, from Queer Mountain is a monthly LGBTQ storytelling showcase started in Austin and now featured every second Friday of the month in New Orleans at the Allways Theatre. Our show is full of fabulous! Featuring the best storytellers from all across the land! Come join us for stories that will make you laugh, cry, ponder the meaning of life and make that drink taste even sweeter. $5 Entry.

- Allways Theatre 8PM–2AM Southern Decadence Block Party with Lords of Leather Beer Bust. Food, vendors, art. Inside Atlas Grant and Bennett Anthony (NSFW) on stage @ 10PM - 2AM - Phoenix 10PM Annual Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals’ Drag Show featuring SDGMs past and present & many others - Golden Lantern 10PM Bearracuda comes to New Orleans with LA DJ Ryan Jones, $10 advance, $15 at door. - One Eyed Jacks (615 Toulouse) http://bearracuda.com/new-orleans/ 10PM–til Krewe Party Presents: FEVER feat Ana Paula + Hector Fonseca + Felipe Lira + Nikki + Boomer Banks. Acts are subject to change without notice. Doors / Show: 10:00PM / 10:00PM. Ages 18+. Tickets starting at $15. houseofblues.com/neworleans - House of Blues New Orleans TBA Superstar DJ Danny Verde -

OZ New Orleans (800 Bourbon St.) 12AM BOYS on PARADE Amateur Strip Contest - Bourbon Pub & Parade (801 Bourbon) SATURDAY, September 1st 1PM–4PM The Lords of Leather host their annual “Decadent Behavior” Party upstairs in the Eagle. $50 advanced purchase. Admission includes open bar. Tickets @ http://www.lordsofleather.org/upcomingevents.html Phoenix 6–9:30PM Bourbon Street Extravaganza concert at Bourbon & St. Ann Streets in front of the Itch featuring Jeanie Tracy, Jennifer Holliday and Deborah Cox- Napoleon’s Itch 7–10PM Glamarama Live! NOLA’s Glam Rock band performs live. $15 GA or $25 reserved seating and proceeds benefit SD Charities - Cafe Istanbul (2372 St. Claude Ave) 6PM The Lords of Leather present the Mr. Louisiana Leather 2018 Contest, $15 donation includes the Saturday Block Party Beer Bust - AllWays Lounge & Theater (2240 St. Claude Ave) 8PM–2AM Southern Decadence Block Party with Lords of Leather beer bust, food, vendors, art Phoenix 10PM, Decadence Divas “R” Us Show, Golden Lantern 10PM, Joe Fiore’s Furball comes to New Orleans with DJ Barry Harris from Toronto, $10 advance, $15 at door. - One Eyed Jacks, 615 Tou-

louse, http://www.furball.nyc/ TBA Superstar DJ Ben Baker - OZ New Orleans (800 Bourbon St.) 10PM–til The 2nd Annual Bette, Bathhouse and Beyond! Daniel Nardicio and Amber Martin recreate one of Bette Midler’s iconic shows at NYC’s Continental Baths. BYO Towel. Tickets $20 on brownpapertickets.com - AllWays Lounge & Theater (2240 St. Claude Ave) 9PM–til HORSE MEAT DISCO is BACK for the 3rd year with tried and tested underground disco rarities that have been rocking crowds from their base in Vauxhall, London, to dancefloors worldwide since 2009. To experience a night with Horse Meat Disco is to experience a night of pure bliss, paired with the hot and sexy energy of Southern Decadence weekend, this is sure to be an unforgettable night, not to be missed! Early Bird tickets $17.89 at Eventbrite - Ace Hotel NOLA Midnight Hot Ass contest followed by porn stars Jessie Coulter and Rikk York on stage at 2AM - Bourbon Pub & Parade (801 Bourbon St.) SUNDAY, September 2nd 10AM–1PM Renegade Bears free Breakfast, Contest and Prizes - Phoenix 11AM–2PM Free Southern Decadence Pre-Parade Show, Street Party, and Parade Line Up Golden Lantern (1239 Royal St.)

11AM-1PM Sunday Services with Candy Samples, Decadent Ducks benefit for Food For Friends/NOLA No AIDS Task Force - One Eyed Jacks (615 Toulouse) 2PM 41st Annual Official Southern Decadence Parade led by SDGMs XLI celebrating Southern Decadence 44.

Parade begins at Golden Lantern, turning on Royal to St. Louis St., then down St. Louis over to Rampart St. then up Rampart to St. Ann and over to Bourbon and finishing at Lafitte’s.

2–5PM XXL The Party with Atlas Grant and Bennett Anthony. $50 tickets at eventbrite. Open bar and coat/ clothes check. No cell phones allowed.

- Phoenix 5PM Annual Miss High Hair Contest, winner takes home the coveted Bronze Barbie - Good Friends Bar 8PM–1AM Block Party and Beer Bust - Phoenix TBA Superstar DJ Tracy Young OZ New Orleans (800 Bourbon St.) MONDAY, September 3rd 2PM 20th Annual Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl TBA Superstar DJs Kyle D, JRB, Tim Pfluger - OZ New Orleans (800 Bourbon St.) 8PM Ladies of LipstiXX Hung Over and Broke- Bourbon Pub & Parade

10 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Snap Paparazzi: Oz New Orleans Photos by Dwain Hertz, Mark David, and 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 · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 11

Moments in Gay New Orleans History: The Two Sides of Decadence Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com These are the dog days of summer. The heat is insufferable, and the humidity is oppressive. Ennui hangs in the sticky air. Every step out of doors is a study in sluggishness. Indolence and lethargy rule the day. Summer in New Orleans.

These were the conditions that gave rise to a small house party in 1972. The invitation read, “Ya’ll Come to the dress up as your favorite Southern Decadent – Party at Belle Reve, 2110 Barracks, late afternoon, Sunday, September 3.”

The host? A group of close friends who dubbed themselves “The Decadents.” The place? A run-down home in the Treme neighborhood owned by David Randolph and his lover Michael Evers. The place had become a headquarters of sorts for the Decadents.

Robert Laurent remembers noting the decay of the home: “Why, it’s like the faded and withered spirit of Blanche Dubois’s Belle Reve from A Streetcar Named Desire.” The name stuck. The guests: about 50 friends and acquaintances.

Randolph was not there. He had

left town because of a family emergency, an emergency that would keep him in Michigan and require Evers to leave New Orleans to join him. So, two weeks later, on Saturday, September 16, another party was held, this one a going-away party for Michael Evers.

The invitation, again designed by Laurent, read, “Come back to Belle Reve.”

Thus, the birth of Southern Decadence. From these humble origins, Southern Decadence gradually grew but, for the most part, at least until the mid-1990s, it was, primarily, a local affair—and that only for locals in the know.

By 1980, the focus had shifted from the house party to the parade and even in the 1980s, the parade was nothing like it is now. Then it was more of an informal bar crawl. The first parade permit was not issued until 1997.

All this is lost, of course, on the 250,000+ out-of-town revelers who come each year to New Orleans for Labor Day weekend. Decadence has, in a sense, outgrown the parade at its nucleus. The vast majority of out-of-town revelers probably don’t even know

there is a parade. Nor are they familiar with the tradition of Grand Marshals.

They’re here to party, and that’s great.

Local business owners, especially gay bar owners, love Southern Decadence because of the financial bonanza it brings. Yet, sadly, some business owners have no respect for the tradition of the Grand Marshal’s Walking Parade. One owner recently told me he wished there would be no parade and no Grand Marshals. Yet another remarked, “No one knows or gives a damn who the Grand Marshal was in 19-fill-in-the-blank.”

While there is some truth in that remark, the sentiment it captures misses an important point. And the cynicism in such an attitude is disturbing. Southern Decadence, at its fundamental core, is a celebration of friendship. It was never intended to be an opportunity for businesses to make money.

Friendships and profits. The two need not be mutually exclusive, but financial greed cannot be allowed to usurp the very nature of Southern Decadence, which is friends celebrating friendship, hedonism, and pleasure for

pleasure’s sake.

Enter the Grand Marshals and their Walking Parade. These are the guardians of tradition. Without the SDGMs and their Parade, Southern Decadence would be just another circuit party that could be held anywhere in any city. The tradition of the Grand Marshals’ Walking Parade is what makes Southern Decadence a uniquely New Orleans tradition. And Southern Decadence is one of the things that makes New Orleans’ LGBT+ history distinctive.

So what is Southern Decadence?

To bartenders and servers, it’s a mortgage payment or car note. For Billy Bear from Atlanta, it’s a chance to get away from the office and cut loose. For the closeted and uninitiated, it’s a baptism by fire. For religious zealots, it’s an opportunity to condemn and hate.

For local allied businesses, it’s a bump in slow summer sales. And for Quarterites and other locals, it’s a sacred tradition that cannot be duplicated anywhere else.

12 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Bartender of the Month: Mark David Tony Leggio ledgemgp@gmail.com My Bartender of the Month for August is an Oz Favorite. Originally from upstate New York, Mark David has been working at the iconic French Quarter gay bar for three years. He previously worked at Canvas in Nashville before meeting a boy (actually a very hairy man) and moving to the Crescent City.

Patrons at the bar know him for his colorful flair, so much so that he has two well-known drinks aptly titled a Blue Drink and a Green Drink. Both are vodka-based and will add (or drain) the color from you when you enjoy them. They both are quite delicious; having tried them, put me in a fabulously yellow mood.

For fun, he issues a challenge to customers. If you give him a color (within reason) he can make you a drink. One of the things he is also known for is his Lazy Susan Karaoke Night which he does every Monday night at Oz. He started something similar to this in Nashville and it garnered lots of attendees. Mark combined that

with some interesting performers for a great show. Each week is a different performer; the night I attended, it was one of my favorites Gayle King Kong.

In fact, Mark is a performer himself, Duchess Ovens, a graduate of Vinsantos’ Cycle 5 Drag University.

When asked about his thoughts on the city, Mark said, “Very easily, there are definitely more tourists here.”

He loves that the city does not close and meeting all the crazies. We are a close-knit community which he loves and probably the gayest city ever. People do not care about impressing people, they are just themselves here.

Mark is very proficient behind the bar making an array of cocktails from classics to modern concoctions. He is also immensely easy on the eyes, with a picture-perfect physique, disarming smile and the best set of bedroom eyes. So, come out and spin the color wheel for a cocktail with Mark. Oz is located at 800 Bourbon Street.

Tricentennial Profiles in History: Don Andres Almonester

Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com One of the more influential figures from Louisiana’s Spanish period, Don Andres Almonester’s legacy was such that we might not recognize New Orleans without it.

Born in Andalusia, Spain, in 1724, Almonester arrived in New Orleans in 1769. He was appointed a Notary Pub-

lic, a member of the Cabildo (the Spanish Governing Council), and eventually became the Royal Standard Bearer. In addition to his public service, he was also a very successful businessman.

His financial prosperity allowed him to become one of New Orleans’ greatest philanthropists. After the great fire

of 1788, he financed the rebuilding St. Louis Cathedral, as well as the Cabildo and Presbytere, which flank the venerable church. He also funded a charity hospital and a public school. Because of his benefactions, he is buried in St. Louis Cathedral.

His daughter, Michaela, would go

on to build the famed Pontalba Buildings, which grace Jackson Square.

She would also beautify the Square and help pay for the statue of Andrew Jackson in its center.

guest speakers have included representatives from the Tour Guide Association of Greater New Orleans, Save Our Cemeteries, and the Friends of the Cabildo. Students also have the option to take the Tour Guide Permit exam on the last night of class. The course begins on September 10 and meets on Monday evenings. Tuition is $325.

Professional Tour Guiding II focuses on research methodology and story-telling. Class sessions will consist of lectures, workshops, and guest speaker presentations from research facilities such as The Historic New Orleans Collection, Louisiana Research

Collection, New Orleans Public Library, Amistad Research Center, and Louisiana State Museum. Students will choose at least one subject to investigate in depth. The last class meeting is a field trip with guided walking tour. This course will be offered in the Spring. Tuition is $195.

History of the French Quarter focuses on the French Quarter as both the original city of New Orleans and its shifting role as the city’s flagship neighborhood. While the French, Spanish, and early American periods are covered, the emphasis of the course is on 20th century history. Topics include,

but are not limited to: architecture, historical preservation, colorful characters, the rise of tourism, literature and the arts, drinking culture, crime and vice, and LGBT+ history. The last class meeting is a tour of the French Quarter.

The course begins on September 12 and meets on Wednesday evenings.

Tuition is $245.

All three courses are non-credit and offered through the Division of Professional and Continuing Studies.

Registration is now open at the Loyola University website.

Frank Perez’s History Courses Now Offered at Loyola University Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com Local historian and Ambush columnist Frank Perez will be teaching three courses at Loyola University: Professional Tour-Guiding I, Professional Tour-Guiding II, and French Quarter History.

Professional Tour Guiding I is for people preparing to take the New Orleans Tour Guide Permit exam or just wanting to learn more about New Orleans history. Students participate in thirteen classroom sessions and two field trips that are guided walking tours of the city. Classroom sessions consist of instructor lectures, guest speakers, and student presentations. Previous

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NEW ORLEANS COOLINARY RESTAURANTS

For Complete Details Regarding Each Restaurant’s Offerings Visit Their Website or Call to Confirm American Sector Restaurant + Bar Central Business District | 1035 Magazine Street (504) 528-1940 | http://www. nationalww2museum.org/americansector Dinner: $30

Andrea’s Restaurant

Jefferson Parish | 3100 19th Street (504) 834-8583 | http://www. andreasrestaurant.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $35

Antoine’s Restaurant

Dinner: $39

Avo

Uptown | 5908 Magazine Street (504) 509-6550 | http://www. restaurantavo.com/ Weekend Brunch: $34 | Dinner: $37

Balise Tavern

Warehouse / Arts District | 640 Carondelet Street (504) 459-4449 | http://www. balisenola.com/ Dinner: $39

French Quarter | 713 St. Louis Street (504) 581-4422 | http://www.antoines. com/ Weekend Brunch: $37 | Lunch: $20.18 | Dinner: TBA

Bar Frances

Apolline

Bayona

Garden District / Uptown | 4729 Magazine Street 504-894-8881 | http://www. apollinerestaurant.com/ Dinner: TBA

Arnaud’s Restaurant

French Quarter | 813 Bienville Street (504) 523-5433 | http://www. arnaudsrestaurant.com/

Uptown | 4525 Freret Street (504) 371-5043 | http://www. barfrances.com/ Dinner: $36 French Quarter | 430 Dauphine Street (504) 525-4455 | http://www.bayona. com/ Dinner: $39

Bistreaux at Maison Dupuy

French Quarter | 1001 Toulouse Street (504) 648-6113 | http://www.

maisondupuy.com/dining Lunch: $19 | Dinner: $29

The Bombay Club

French Quarter | 830 Conti Street (504) 577-2237 | http://www. bombayclubneworleans.com/ Dinner: $30

The Bon Ton Café

Central Business District | 401 Magazine Street (504) 524-3386 | http://www. thebontoncafe.com/ Dinner: $35

Borgne

Central Business District | 601 Loyola Avenue (504) 613-3860 | http://www. borgnerestaurant.com/ Dinner: $39

Boucherie

Riverbend | 1506 South Carrollton Ave. (504) 862-5514 | http://boucherie-nola. com/ Lunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

Bourbon House

French Quarter | 144 Bourbon Street (504) 522-0111 | http://www. bourbonhouse.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $39

Brigtsen’s Restaurant

Riverbend | 723 Dante Street (504) 861-7610 | http://www.brigtsens. com/ Dinner: $39

Broussard’s

French Quarter | 819 Conti Street (504) 581-3866 | http://www. broussards.com/ Dinner: $19.20

Brown Butter Southern Kitchen

Midcity | 231 North Carrollton Avenue (504) 609-3871 | http://www. brownbutterrestaurant.com/ Weekend Brunch: $30 | Lunch: $20

Café Adelaide

Central Business District | 300 Poydras Street (504) 595-3305 | http://www. cafeadelaide.com/ Lunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

Cafe Degas

Midcity | 3127 Esplanade Avenue (504) 945-5635 | http://www. cafedegas.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $35

Carrolton Market

Riverbend | 8132 Hampson Street (504) 252-9928 | http://www. carrolltonmarket.com/ Dinner: $39

Casa Borrega

Central City | 1719 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.

(504) 427-0654 | http://www. casaborrega.com/ Weekend Brunch: $18 | Dinner: $28

Cavan

Garden District / Uptown | 3607 Magazine Street (504) 509-7655 | http://www. cavannola.com/ Lunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

Charlie’s Steak House

Uptown | 4510 Dryades Street (504) 895-9323 | http://www. charliessteakhousenola.com/ Dinner: $39

Commander’s Palace

Garden District / Uptown | 1403 Washington Avenue (504) 899-8221 | http://www. commanderspalace.com/ Weekend Brunch: $37 | Lunch: $18

Coterie Restaurant & Oyster Bar

French Quarter | 135 Decatur Street (504) 529-8600 | http://www. coterienola.com/ Lunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

The Country Club New Orleans Marigny / Bywater | 634 Louisa Street (504) 945-0742 | http://www. thecountryclubneworleans.com/ Lunch: $18 | Dinner: $37

Court of Two Sisters

French Quarter | 613 Royal Street (504) 522-7261 | http://www. courtoftwosisters.com/ Dinner: $39

Crescent City Brewhouse

French Quarter | 527 Decatur Street (504) 522-0571 | http://www. crescentcitybrewhouse.com/ Dinner: $35

Criollo Restaurant

French Quarter | 214 Royal Street (504) 681-4444 | http://www. criollonola.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $35

Curio

French Quarter | 301 Royal Street (504) 717-4198 | http://www.curionola. com/ Dinner: $29

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com/ Weekend Brunch: $39 | Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $39

Dante’s Kitchen

Riverbend | 736 Dante Street (504) 861-3121 | http://www. danteskitchen.com/ Dinner: $35

Evangeline

Del Fuego Taqueria

Garden District / Uptown | 4518 Magazine Street (504) 309-5797 | http://www. delfuegotacos.com/ Weekend Brunch: $12 | Lunch: $12 | Dinner: $18

Desire Oyster Bar

French Quarter | 300 Bourbon Street (504) 553-2281 | http://www.sonesta. com/desireoysterbar Lunch: $19.95 | Dinner: $34

Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse

French Quarter | 716 Iberville Street (504) 522-2467 | http://www. dickiebrennanssteakhouse.com/ Dinner: $39

Domenica

Central Business District | 123 Baronne Street (504) 648-6020 | http://www. domenicarestaurant.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $39

DTB

Uptown | 8201 Oak Street (504) 518-6889 | http://www.dtbnola.

French Quarter | 329 Decatur Street (504) 373-4852 | http://www. evangelineneworleans.com/ Dinner: TBA

Fogo De Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

Central Business District | 614 Canal Street (504) 412-8900 | http://www.fogo.com/ Dinner: $39

The Fountain Lounge

Central Business District | 130 Roosevelt Way (504) 648-5486 | http://www. therooseveltneworleans.com/dining/ fountain-lounge.html Lunch: $18.93 | Dinner: $35

Gabrielle

Treme | 2441 Orleans Avenue (504) 603-2344 | http://www.facebook. com/GabrielleRestaurant Dinner: $39

Galatoire’s “33” Bar and Steak

French Quarter | 215 Bourbon Street (504) 335-3932 | http://www. galatoires33barandsteak.com/ Dinner: $39

Galatoire’s Restaurant

French Quarter | 209 Bourbon Street (504) 525-2021 | http://www. galatoires.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $39

Gautreau’s Restaurant

Uptown | 1728 Soniat Street (504) 899-7397 | http://www. gautreausrestaurant.com/ Dinner: $39

Gordon Biersch

Central Business District | 200 Poydras Street (504) 552-2739 | http://www. gordonbiersch.com/locations/neworleans-la Dinner: $28.32

The Grill Room at Windsor Court Central Business District | 300 Gravier Street (504) 522-1992 | http://www. grillroomneworleans.com/ Lunch: $19.84 | Dinner: $39

Lunch: $19.95 | Dinner: $34.99

Hippie Kitchen

Jefferson Parish | 3741 Jefferson Highway (504) 444-4113 | http://www.hknola. com/ Weekend Brunch: $18 | Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $30 | Group: $17/pp for group of 6

Jayne

Central Business District | 1111 Gravier Street (504) 518-5500 | http://www.jaynenola. com/ Dinner: $39

Johnny Sánchez

Central Business District | 930 Poydras Street (504) 304-6615 | http://www. johnnysanchezrestaurant.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $35

Josephine Estelle

French Quarter | 808 Bienville Street (504) 581-3467 | http://www.gwfins. com/ Dinner: TBA

Warehouse / Arts District | 600 Carondelet Street (504) 930-3070 | http://www. josephineestelle.com/ Weekend Brunch: TBA | Lunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

Happy Italian Pizzeria

K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen

GW Fins

Harahan | 7105 Jefferson Highway (504) 305-4666 | http://www. happyitalian.com/

French Quarter | 416 Chartres Street (504) 596-2530 | http://www.kpauls. com/

Visit us before, during & after

SOUTHERN DECADENCE! Make your reservation today!

Shrimp & Grits

are a Café Amelie staple!

912 Royal Street • BETWEEN DUMAINE & ST. PHILIP • French Quarter • 504-412-8965 • cafeamelie.com 16 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com CAFE_AMELIE_AMBUSH_AD.indd 1

8/7/18 12:51 PM

Dinner: TBA

Dinner: $39

Katie’s Restaurant & Bar

Meauxbar

Midcity | 3701 Iberville Street (504) 488-6582 | www.katiesinmidcity. com Lunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

Kingfish Kitchen and Cocktails

French Quarter | 337 Chartres Street (504) 598-5005 | http://www. kingfishneworleans.com/ Dinner: $36

La Petite Grocery

Marigny / Bywater | 942 N. Rampart Street (504) 569-9979 | http://www. meauxbar.com/ Weekend Brunch: TBA | Dinner: $30

Mondo

Lakeview | 900 Harrison Avenue (504) 224-2633 | http://www. mondoneworleans.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $27

Garden District / Uptown | 4238 Magazine Street (504) 891-3377 | http://www. lapetitegrocery.com/ Dinner: $39

Morton’s Steakhouse

Little Gem Saloon

Mr. B’s Bistro

Central Business District | 445 South Rampart Street (504) 267-4863 | http://www. littlegemsaloon.com/ Dinner: $39

Lüke

Central Business District | 333 St. Charles Avenue (504) 378-2840 | http://www. lukeneworleans.com/ Lunch: $17 | Dinner: $39

Lula Restaurant Distillery

Garden District / Uptown | 1532 St. Charles Avenue (504) 267-7624 | http://www.lulanola. com/ Weekend Brunch: $34 | Lunch: $19.95 | Dinner: $30

M Bistro at the Ritz-Carlton, Uptown

Central Business District | 921 Canal Street (504) 670-2828 | http://www. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/new-orleans/ dining/m-bistro Dinner: $39

Madam’s Modern Kitchen + Bar @ The B on Canal Central Business District | 1300 Canal Street (504) 226-2993 | http://www. madamsmodernkitchen.com/ Weekend Brunch: $39 | Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $39

Manning’s Sports Bar and Grill

Central Business District | 519 Fulton Street (504) 593-8118 | http://www.opentable. com/mannings-restaurant-harrahsnew-orleans Lunch: $18 | Dinner: $35

Maypop

Warehouse / Arts District | 611 O’Keefe Avenue (504) 518-6345 | http://www. maypoprestaurant.com/

French Quarter | 365 Canal Street (504) 566-0221 | http://www.mortons. com/ Dinner: $39 French Quarter | 201 Royal Street (504) 523-2078 | http://www. mrbsbistro.com/ Lunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

The Munch Factory

Garden District / Uptown | 1901 Sophie Wright Place (504) 324-5372 | http://www. themunchfactory.net/ Lunch: $19 | Dinner: $39

Muriel’s Jackson Square

French Quarter | 801 Chartres Street (504) 568-1885 | http://www.muriels. com/ Weekend Brunch: Price range is between $29-39 for three courses | Lunch: $19.95 | Dinner: $39

Lunch: TBA | Dinner: $39

The Pelican Club

French Quarter | 312 Exchange Place (504) 523-1504 | http://www. pelicanclub.com/ Dinner: $39

Public Service

Central Business District | 311 Baronne Street (504) 962-6527 | http://www. publicservicenola.com/ Weekend Brunch: TBA | Lunch: TBA | Dinner: $35

Red Fish Grill

French Quarter | 115 Bourbon Street (504) 598-1200 | http://www. redfishgrill.com/ Lunch: $20

Reginelli’s Pizzeria - Poydras

Central Business District | 930 Poydras Street (504) 586-0068 | http://www.reginellis. com/ Lunch: $19.50 | Dinner: $19.50

Restaurant August

Central Business District | 301 Tchoupitoulas Street (504) 299-9777 | http://www. restaurantaugust.com/ Dinner: $39

Restaurant R’evolution

French Quarter | 777 Bienville Street (504) 553-2277 | http://www. revolutionnola.com/ Weekend Brunch: $39 | Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $39

Revel Cafe and Bar

Midcity | 133 N. Carrollton Avenue (504) 919-7394 | http://www. revelcafeandbar.com/ Dinner: TBA

The Rib Room

French Quarter | 621 St. Louis Street (504) 529-7046 | http://www. ribroomneworleans.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $39

Riccobono’s Peppermill

Metarie | 3524 Severn Avenue (504) 455-2266 | http://www. riccobonospeppermill.com/ Dinner: $36

Rosedale

Midcity | 801 Rosedale Drive (504) 309-9595 | http://www. rosedalerestaurant.com/ Weekend Brunch: $20 | Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $36

Roux & Brew

Ponchatoula | 135 SW Railroad Avenue

Oceana Grill

French Quarter | 739 Conti Street (504) 525-3661 | http://www. oceanagrill.com/ Lunch: $19.95 | Dinner: $29.95

RESTAURANT & BAR

Olde NOLA Cookery

French Quarter | 205 Bourbon Street (504) 525-4577 | http://www. nolacookery.com/ Lunch: $19.95 | Dinner: $29.95

Palace Café

Central Business District | 605 Canal Street (504) 523-1661 | http://www. palacecafe.com/ Lunch: Temperature Lunch – 2 courses for yesterday’s high | Dinner: $39

Pascal’s Manale

Garden District / Uptown | 1838 Napoleon Avenue (504) 895-4877 | http://www. pascalsmanale.com/ Lunch: $18 | Dinner: $36

Patois

Uptown | 6078 Laurel Street (504) 895-9441 | http://www. patoisnola.com/

LARGE COVERED PATIO ON ESPLANADE

DAILY SPECIALS Open 11am – 10pm Daily Except Mondays

HAPPY HOUR WEEKDAYS 4 – 6PM

SUNDAY BRUNCH 11AM – 3PM $1 MIMOSAS $3 SANGRIAS & BLOODY MARYS

THE TRADITION LIVES ON AT

3201 ESPLANADE AVE. · 948-0077

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 17

(985) 486-7689 | http://www. rouxandbrew.com/ Weekend Brunch: $19.99 | Lunch: $19.99 | Dinner: $29.99

Sala

Lakeview | 124 Lake Marina Avenue (504) 513-2670 | http://www.salanola. com/ Lunch: $19 | Dinner: $36

Salon Restaurant by Sucré

French Quarter | 622 Conti Street (504) 267-7098 | http://www. restaurantsalon.com/ Weekend Brunch: TBA

Seaworthy

Warehouse / Arts District | 630 Carondelet Street (504) 930-3071 | http://www. seaworthynola.com/ Weekend Brunch: TBA | Dinner: TBA

Seed

Garden District / Uptown | 1330 Prytania Street (504) 302-2599 | http://www. seedyourhealth.com/ Dinner: TBA

Semolina

Jefferson Parish | 4436 Veterans Blvd.

(504) 454-7930 | http://www.semolina. com/ Dinner: $19.95

Shaya

Garden District / Uptown | 4213 Magazine Street (504) 891-4213 | http://www. shayarestaurant.com/ Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $34

Silk Road

Marigny / Bywater | 2483 Royal Street (504) 944-6666 | http://www. silkroadnola.com/ Dinner: $29

Sobou

French Quarter | 310 Chartres Street (504) 552-4095 | http://www. sobounola.com/ Weekend Brunch: Starting at $29 | Lunch: Starting at $14 | Dinner: Starting at $26

The Steakhouse

Central Business District | 8 Canal Street (504) 533-6111 | http://www. harrahssteakhouse.com/ Dinner: $39

Sylvain

French Quarter | 625 Chartres Street (504) 265-8123 | http://www. sylvainnola.com/ Weekend Brunch: $18 | Dinner: $30

Tableau

French Quarter | 616 St. Peter Street

(504) 934-3463 | http://www. tableaufrenchquarter.com/ Weekday Brunch: $20 | Weekend Brunch: $35 | Dinner: $39

(504) 608-3474 | http://www. servingsushi.com/ Dinner: $35

Tommy’s Cuisine

French Quarter | 823 Decatur Street (504) 525-8676 | http://www. tujaguesrestaurant.com/ Dinner: $38

Warehouse / Arts District | 746 Tchoupitoulas Street (504) 581-1103 | http://www. tommyscuisine.com/ Dinner: $30

Toups South

Uptown | 1504 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.

(504) 304-2147 | http://www. toupssouth.com/ Weekend Brunch: $35 | Lunch: $20 | Dinner: $35

Toups’ Meatery

Midcity | 845 North Carrollton Avenue (504) 252-4999 | http://www. toupsmeatery.com/ Lunch: $20

Trenasse

Central Business District | 444 Saint Charles Avenue (504) 680-7000 | http://www.trenasse. com/ Weekend Brunch: $39 | Lunch: $19.95 | Dinner: $39

Tsunami Sushi

Central Business District | 601 Poydras Street

Tujague’s Restaurant

Upperline

Garden District / Uptown | 1413 Upperline Street (504) 891-9822 | http://www.upperline. com/ Dinner: $39

Vacherie Restaurannt & Bar

French Quarter | 827 Toulouse Street (504) 207-4532 | http://www. vacherierestaurant.com/ Weekend Brunch: $19 | Dinner: $28

Zea Rotisserie & Bar - Metaire

Metarie | 4450 Veterans Memorial Blvd.

(504) 780-9090 | http://www. zearestaurants.com/locations/metairie/ Dinner: Starting at $19.99

Zea Rotisserie & Bar - Harahan

Jefferson Parish | 1655 Hickory Avenue (504) 738-0799 | http://www. zearestaurants.com/locations/harahan Dinner: Starting at $19.99

18 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

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Restaurant Review: Madam’s Modern Kitchen + Bar at the New B on Canal Hotel TJ Acosta tj@ambushpublishing.com

As you walk into Madam’s Modern Kitchen + Bar, the first thing you notice is how friendly everyone who works there is. They greet you with a smile, ready to serve you a cocktail to get your evening started.

Last week, three friends and I enjoyed the Coolinary menu there. As we sat down I was very impressed with the space. The bar and restaurant area have a great vibe. Everything is very modern, clean and new.

Starting with cocktails, if you are someone who enjoys bourbon, I’d highly recommend you begin with an Anderson Old Fashioned. You have to try this one to understand how good it is - the secret is in the Cracker Jacks!

We then tried each Coolinary item and I can promise you everything was delicious.

The first Coolinary course is a

choice between the roasted cauliflower salad or six charbroiled gulf oysters.

Both are scrumptious so this was a very hard choice for me. The cauliflower was served with sweet onions, almonds and coconut rice over a bed of cabbage. It was like an explosion of flavors inside my mouth.

The charbroiled gulf oysters, however, were hands down in the top 3 I’ve ever had in New Orleans...and I’ve had charbroiled oysters at easily over 20 places in the city. Several places cook the oysters too long so they shrivel up, or they have too much breading on them. Not at Madam’s! The oysters were full of flavor and cooked to perfection and, most importantly, were not overcooked. The flavor was amazing!

I’ll order these every time I go to Madam’s because they are THAT good.

The second course was a choice

between wild mushroom ravioli or panseared chicken. The chicken came with braised greens, garlic rice and chipotle butter. It was a big portion and tasted great. The mushroom ravioli were simply amazing! They came with truffle fondue and parmigiano reggiano, and tasted like heaven. This dish was so exquisite I even told the staff that it could be the restaurant’s signature dish. I’ll definitely be back for it.

Finally, my favorite part of the meal - DESSERT! The choice is between croissant bread pudding and blackberry clafoutis. The bread pudding, warm, delectable and served with bourbon creme anglaise, simply melted in my mouth. Bread pudding has been done many ways but this was the first time I’ve had it with croissants. It ranks right up there with the best of them.

Next we tried the blackberry cla-

foutis which was accompanied by vanilla ice cream. Clafoutis is a fancy way of saying a tart made of fruit in a sweet batter which has the consistency of cornbread. Hot cornbread with blackberries and the vanilla ice cream on top? Mouthwatering! It made me wonder why all these years I’ve never thought of putting ice cream on cornbread myself.

Overall the menu had something for everyone and everything was outstanding. I would definitely add Madam’s to your list of places to check out this Coolinary season. The Coolinary dinner menu is 3 courses for $29.

Madam’s Modern Kitchen + Bar is located at 1300 Canal Street inside the new B on Canal Hotel.

Come Join Us For Fun Bowling!!!

Kocktail Bunch Bowling League Fall League Starts Monday, September 10@ 7pm New Members arrive @ 6:30 Teams of 4 or Individuals Welcome Everyone invited from novices to pros AMF All Star Lanes 3640 Williams Blvd., Kenner, La. For more information or questions contact: kocktailbunch@att.net

20 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Under the Gaydar: New Orleans Hot Happenings Tony Leggio ledgemgp@gmail.com Southern Decadence is just around the corner so be prepared for the events to start heating up. Here are just a few of the fun happenings coming up along with a list of Southern Decadence festivities to start planning your long weekend. (If you have a fundraiser, party, show or event coming up and would like to be listed in the calendar, please email me at ledgemgp@gmail. com).

Tuesday, August 14, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine St.; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke with the winner getting a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball.

Tequila Tuesdays: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; Open to close. Features $5 Tequila Sunrises, $6 house margaritas, $7 peach or strawberry margaritas and $7 Patron shots.

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

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

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 8:00 p.m.

See the Men of Oz like you have nev-

er 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 Ave.; 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: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drinks special is two-for-one drinks until 10 p.m.

Eat At LPK to raise funds for Amon Ra: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 Carrollton Avenue; 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Write “Amon-Ra” on the back of your ticket and LPK Uptown will donate 25% of the bill back to the Krewe of AmonRa for any purchases made on August 14, including take-out and catering.

Have a delicious Fresh Mozzarella Pizza or hearty Eggplant Parmesan and help the Krewe of Amon-Ra raise funds for our 54th Annual Ball.

Wednesday, August 15, 2018 WednesGays at LPK Uptown: Louisiana Pizza Kitchen; 615 South

The Double Play

n o I

T I s

n a

In

Tr

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

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

Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 St.; 7 p.m. Wednesdays are Game Night with Honey Bee at 7 p.m. and free jello shots and Bar Tabs.

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

Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740

Burgundy St.; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers.

Wine Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 5 p.m. close. $15 bottles of wine.

Video Game Night: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; 8:30 p.m.

- midnight; The bar is doing Video Game Night starting at 9 p.m. This month they are doing Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch! Come and compete for prizes and grab some drinks.

Thursday, August 16, 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 New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush brings 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 New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 10 p.m. The Comedy Cabaret stars Jeff D.

1/2 Price DRINKS 7AM-9PM

ALL WEEK LONG

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 21

featuring Gia GiaVanni. Enjoy hilarious comedians, amazing talent and the Ladies of Oz. Strip Off:Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night.

Bring Your Own Meat Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 6 - 8 p.m. Bring your own meat for the grill and the bar will have all the sides.

Dragula Viewing Party: Kajuns Pub; 2256 St. Claude Avenue; 7 p.m.

Do you like Glamour, Horror, Filth and all things spooky? Had enough of Rupaul’s Drag Race but still obsessed with drag queens? Dragula is a web show, created by The Boulet Brothers to find the world’s next drag supermonster! Each Thursday, Laveau Contraire will be bringing in local drag talent to kiki about the show and perform real life drag performances for your viewing and tipping pleasure! They will also be giving away lots of FREE swag with the purchase of one of our weekly drink specials!

Friday, August 17, 2018 Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites.

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

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

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

Saturday, August 18, 2018 Music of Vanessa Carr Kennedy; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 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 St.; 10 - 11:30 p.m. This wonderful drag show directed by Monica Sinclaire Kennedy includes special guest stars.

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

CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. 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 North Causeway Blvd.; 8 - 10 p.m. $5 ALL YOU CAN DRINK Beer Bust with $1 jello shots to top off the night.

Free Car Wash for Southern Decadence: Lafitte’s in Exile; 901 Bourbon Street; 1 - 3 p.m. This free car wash benefits Southern Decadence and its official charities--Team Friendly and the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana. Any and all donations are appreciated.

Ice Cream Social: Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans; 5401 S. Claiborne Avenue; 3 - 5 p.m. Looking for a respite from this long, hot summer? Join NOAGE and the Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans for an afternoon of fellowship, conversation, and of course ICE CREAM! Miss Louisiana Leatherette Contest; Four Seasons Bar; 3220 N. Causeway Blvd.; doors open at 8 p.m.

It’s that time of year for the Lords of Leather’s exciting and entertaining fundraiser. So bring out your best campy leather and watch an amazing group of “ladies” compete for the grand title of Miss Louisiana Leatherette. Entry fee for the pageant is $35 and there is a $10 donation at the door.

Drag Dingo: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 6 - 8 p.m. Catch ChiChi Rodriquez, Persana Shoulders or Lisa Beaumann for Drag Bingo! 11 games of Bingo, 11 chances to win prizes! All the fun starts at 6 pm till 8 pm in their upstairs bar with your favorite bottom, Jake, slinging drinks all night long!

Sunday, August 19, 2018 Bottomless Sundays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St.. 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 St.; 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 are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and special guests.

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

Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon St.; 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.

Sunday Worship: Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans (MCCNO); 5401 S. Claiborne Ave; 10:00 a.m. New Orleans first LGBTQ church welcomes you to join us for our Sunday worship service where we celebrate God’s love for everyone.

Cocktails For A Cause: The Basin; 152 Harrison Avenue; 12 - 3 p.m. Join the Gulf South Chamber of Commerce for their annual summer fundraiser.

This year they’re raising money for PFLAG New Orleans. $20 buys you admission, unlimited chances to win fabulous door prizes, $5 drink specials and free delicious food from Jambalaya Girl! 100% of every ticket sold will directly benefit PFLAG New Orleans.

Tickets may be purchased in advance on their Facebook page or pay cash at the door.

Bingo at Del Fuego with the Big Easy Sisters; Del Fuego; 4518 Magazine Street; 2 - 5 p.m. How Do You Get Uptowners in New Orleans to Yell Bad Words? You yell BINGO at The Big Easy Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence BINGO fundraiser at Del Fuego!

6 BINGO games With Prizes! $20 Donation Special Includes 1 DOUBLE cocktail, Salsas, and 5 BINGO cards. $15 of special, PLUS 25% of all Sales go to Zeus’ Rescues and The Big Easy Sisters! Extra BINGO tickets available!

(BINGO Daubers provided) plus Dirty Dance Offs, drink specials, jello shots, and THE MEXICAN LOTERIA! All proceeds from this fundraising event go to Zeus’ Rescues and The Big Easy Sisters Grant fund to benefit local New Orleans charities.

Drag Dingo: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 6 - 8 p.m. Catch ChiChi Rodriquez, Persana Shoulders or Lisa Beaumann for Drag Bingo! 11 games of Bingo, 11 chances to win prizes! All the fun starts at 6 pm till 8 pm in their upstairs bar with your favorite bottom, Jake, slinging drinks all night long!

Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser: The Friendly Bar; 2301 Chartres Street; 3 - 6 p.m. Delicious spaghetti, raffles, prizes, and more! $10 donation. Proceeds benefit Southern Decadence and its official charities--Team Friendly and the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana.

Monday, August 20, 2018 Karaoke Monday: The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon St.; 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy happy hour prices all night long. Hosted by Denny with VJ Dollabill.

S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis St.; 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.

22 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Margarita Mondays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drink special is $3 margaritas all day and night.

Pool Tournament: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy St.; 9:45 p.m. $2 PBR and $50 Gift Certificate for Rawhide Lazy Susan Karaoke: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join bartender Mark and a revolving cast of drag queen hostesses (Shocktavia) for LAZY SUSAN KARAOKE with Music by DJ Lucius Riley.

Mondays are a drag, so make them fabulous and sing the night away.

Tuesday, August 21, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends Bar; 740 Dauphine St.; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Join us at Good Friends Bar for Kocktail Karaoke. The winner gets a $25.00 bar tab. $5 Fireball.

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

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

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 Ave.; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is 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: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drinks special is two for one drinks until 10 p.m.

Tequila Tuesdays: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; Open to close. Features $5 Tequila Sunrises, $6 house margaritas, $7 peach or strawberry margaritas and $7 Patron shots.

Poseidon Takes the World: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; starts at 10 p.m. Come out and support Poseidon Davenport as he makes his journey to Mr. Continental.

Wednesday, August 22, 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; Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon St.; 9 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Cafe Lafitte in Exile. Behind the bar slinging your drinks are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill.

Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans;

800 Bourbon St.; 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 St.; 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): Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m.

Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy St.; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers.

Wine Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 5 p.m. close. $15 bottles of wine.

Thursday, August 23, 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 St.; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is brings 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 New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night.

Bring Your Own Meat Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 6 - 8 p.m. Bring your own meat for the grill and the bar will have all the sides.

Dragula Viewing Party: Kajuns Pub; 2256 St. Claude Avenue; 7 p.m.

Do you like Glamour, Horror, Filth and all things spooky? Had enough of Rupaul’s Drag Race but still obsessed with drag queens? Dragula is a web show, created by The Boulet Brothers to find the world’s next drag supermonster! Each Thursday, Laveau Contraire will be bringing in local drag talent to kiki about the show and perform real life drag performances for your viewing pleasure! They will also be giving away lots of FREE swag with the purchase of one of our weekly drink specials!

Friday, August 24, 2018 Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites.

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

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

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

BES Beer Bust: The Phoenix; 941 Elysian Fields; 9 p.m. - midnight; The Big Easy Sisters bi-monthly beer bust includes $10 unlimited draft beer on the patio with all proceeds going to local charities.

Saturday, August 25, 2018 Music of Vanessa Carr Kennedy; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 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 St.; 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 St.; 4 7 p.m. Sing along with your favorite

songs with talented piano player Trey Ming.

CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. 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.

Drag Dingo: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 6 - 8 p.m. Catch ChiChi Rodriquez, Persana Shoulders or Lisa Beaumann for Drag Bingo! 11 games of Bingo, 11 chances to win prizes! All the fun starts at 6 pm till 8 pm in their upstairs bar with your favorite bottom, Jake, slinging drinks all night long!

Sunday, August 26, 2018 Bottomless Sundays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St.. 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 St.; 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.

Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and special guests.

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

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 23

the Week Contest.

Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon St.; 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.

Sunday Worship: Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans (MCCNO); 5401 S. Claiborne Ave; 10:00 a.m. New Orleans first LGBTQ church welcomes you to join us for our Sunday worship service where they celebrate God’s love for everyone.

Drag Dingo: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 6 - 8 p.m. Catch ChiChi Rodriquez, Persana Shoulders or Lisa Beaumann for Drag Bingo! 11 games of Bingo, 11 chances to win prizes! All the fun starts at 6 pm till 8 pm in their upstairs bar with your favorite bottom, Jake, slinging drinks all night long!

Monday, August 27, 2018 Karaoke Monday: The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon St.; 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy happy hour prices all night long. Hosted by Denny with VJ Dollabill.

S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis St.; Starting at 9 p.m.

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

Pool Tournament: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy St.; 9:45 p.m. $2 PBR and $50 gift certificate for Rawhide Lazy Susan Karaoke: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join bartender Mark and a revolving cast of drag queen hostesses (Marcia Cissm) for LAZY SUSAN KARAOKE with Music by DJ Lucius Riley.

Mondays are a drag, so make them fabulous and sing the night away.

Showstoppers Cabaret Anniversary: Allways Lounge; 2240 St. Claude Avenue; 8 - 10:30 p.m. The Honourable Theodora Onassis, unable to commit to anything for more than a week, made it a full year producing this monthly revue. So to celebrate a whole year, we doin’ it REAL BIG. It’s going to be the BEST OF THE BEST. True VARIETY. ALL killer, NO filler.

We’ll have LIVE MUSIC and DRAG and BURLESQUE. Heartbreak. Period jokes. Pussy beads. Mom??? And a lot of FEELINGS. You’d best be there.

Cover is $10. The cast includes Trey Bien, Cherry Bombshell, Darling Darla James, Gayle King Kong, Quinn Laroux, Mz. Asa Metric, Lune Noirr and hosted by Dede Onassis.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018 Kocktail Karaoke: Good Friends

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Bar; 740 Dauphine St.; 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 St.; 8 p.m.

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

Bourbon Boylesque: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 Ave.; 8 p.m. Tacos, Tequila, and Tiaras is 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: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drinks special is two for one drinks until 10 p.m.

Tequila Tuesdays: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; Open to close. Features $5 Tequila Sunrises, $6 house margaritas, $7 peach or strawberry margaritas and $7 Patron shots.

Southern Decadence New Orleans Book Signing; 1850 House; 523 St. Ann Street; 2 - 4 p.m. Join authors Howard-Smith Philips and Frank Perez (2018 Southern Decadence Grand Marshal) for this book-signing of the first comprehensive volume about Southern Decadence. Howard Philips Smith and Frank Perez’s Southern Decadence in New Orleans brings together an astounding array of materials to provide the first comprehensive, historical look at Southern Decadence.

In an engaging account spanning five decades, the authors combine a trove of rare memorabilia from the event’s founders, early photographs and film stills, newspaper and magazine articles, interviews with longtime participants, a list of all the parades and grand marshals, as well as reproductions of early Southern Decadence invitations.

Throughout, the authors explore the pivotal moments and public perceptions related to the festival—including the myths and conjecture that often inaccurately characterized it—and provide an in-depth narrative detailing how a small party in the Faubourg Tremé grew into a worldwide destination for, predominantly, gay men.

NOAGE Potluck: Community Church Unitarian Universalist; 6690 Fleur de Lis Drive; 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Join the New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders for their monthly potluck! Come to eat, come to meet new folks, come to network, come to enjoy a summer night. Bringing a dish is encouraged, but not required.

Wednesday, August 29, 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; Cafe Lafitte in Exile; 901 Bourbon St.; 9 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Join DJ Kory and DJ Derek as they play Karaoke at Cafe Lafitte in Exile. Behind the bar slinging your drinks are Jeremy, Ryan, and Tim. $5 Fireball, $25 Gift Certificate for GFB, plus Free Tatertots Gift Card for Clover Grill.

Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 St.; 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): Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drink special is all drinks are half price until 10 p.m.

Hump Day: Rawhide 2010; 740 Burgundy St.; 4 - 9 p.m. 2 for $4 wells, draft, and domestic beers.

Wine Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 5 p.m. close. $15 bottles of wine.

Winter Wonderland VII Sponsorship/Royalty Announcement Party; Kajuns Pub; 2256 St. Claude Avenue; 6 - 8 p.m. Come out to Kajuns Pub for the crowning of Winter Queen II Desirée Marie Chevalier and Winter King II Rodney Thoulion. They will also be announcing their charity selections.

NOAGE Movie Night: Chalmette Movies: 8700 Judge Perez; 7 p.m. Admission is free for NOAGE attendees, but RSVP IS REQUIRED. RSVP at the Eventbrite link (See NOAGE website Event page). With The Ritz, Terrence McNally’s hit Broadway play is captured on film by director Richard Lester.

When Gaetano Proclo (Jack Weston), a minor mob flunky who’s been targeted for elimination by his brother-in-law, Carmine Vespucci (Jerry Stiller), takes refuge in what he thinks is a Turkish bath but turns out to be a (pre-AIDS era) gay bathhouse, an old-fashioned door-slamming farce ensues. The supporting cast includes Rita Moreno (reprising her Tony-winning performance), Kaye Ballard, Treat Williams, George Coulouris, F. Murray Abraham, and (as one of the patrons) a pre-Cheers John Ratzenberger.

Wet Jockey Shorts Contest: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis Street; starting at 10 p.m. Come out and see the boys get wet at this annual Southern Decadence event.

Thursday, August 30, 2018

24 · The1Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August Untitled-5 6/1/18 1:0114 PM- 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

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 St.; 9 p.m. Girl | Crush is brings 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 New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. The drink special is $3 Fireball and Jagermeister shots all day and night.

Bring Your Own Meat Night: Four Seasons Bar; 3229 N. Causeway Blvd.; 6 - 8 p.m. Bring your own meat for the grill and the bar will have all the sides.

From Exile to Decadence - An LGBT+ History of the French Quarter: Beauregard-Keyes House; 1113 Chartres Street; 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Come out to a late summer event in our Tricentennial Lecture Series! Author Frank Perez will present From Exile to Decadence: An LGBT+ History of the French Quarter.

Reception at 5:30; lecture at 6 pm.

Members of the gay community in New Orleans helped preserve the history and architecture of the French Quarter in the early 20th century while simultaneously fighting personal battles against discrimination and oppression.

In this lecture, Perez will discuss the evolution and progress of the LGBT+ experience in New Orleans through four of its most compelling pillars: Cafe Lafitte in Exile, the UpStairs Lounge, Gay Carnival, and Southern Decadence.

Nasty Pig: The Phoenix; 941b Elysian Fields; starts at 9 p.m. The Phoenix kicks off the big holiday weekend with our Underwear Night, hosted by Nasty Pig starting at 9 p.m. Get 20% off Nasty Pig underwear (Thursday only) in the store. Beer bust from 9 p.m. to midnight. Jaegermeister giveaways from 10 p.m. to midnight. And Atlas Grant and Bennett Anthony on stage from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Friday, August 31 & Saturday, September 1, 2018 Lords of Leather Southern Deca-

dence Beer Busts at Phoenix Block Party take place Friday and Saturday, Aug 31 and Sept 1 from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. Just $20 for all-you-can-drink beer from the street beer truck while you take in the sights and sounds of hot, sweaty bears and leathermen enjoying all that Decadence and the Phoenix can offer!

Friday, August 31, 2018 Music of Senator Ken: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Enjoy live music with Senator Ken playing all your favorites.

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

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

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

25th Annual Empowerment Conference - Marching United to End HIV: New Orleans Marriott Convention Center; 859 Convention Center Blvd.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. The 25th Annual Empowerment Conference: Marching United to End HIV, will focus on the critical goal of achieving an HIV-free generation by ensuring that HIV is non-transmittable by reducing HIV-related disparities and ensuring equal access to HIV treatment. Empowerment is an annual one-day conference that provides current HIV treatment information with a focus on supporting individuals living with HIV in making evidence-informed treatment decisions. Empowerment also provides education appropriate for health care providers, case managers, health educators, and other allied health & behavioral health professionals. This year’s session topics will include adherence, transgender-affirming care, aging well with HIV, achieving financial goals, HIV & faith, women’s health, family planning, stigma and health disparities, research innovations…and more! There is no charge to attend the Empowerment Conference and 4.0 CEUs are available for social workers at a cost of $10 per CEU. Bearracuda New Orleans - Decadence 2018: One Eyed Jacks; 615 Toulouse Street; 9 p.m. - 3 a.m. $10 advance tix at http://Bearracuda.com/ southern-decadence/. DJ Ryan Jones (LA), hot go-go’s! Bearracuda welcomes 100’s of furry guys to dance the night away in the middle of the French Quarter. Bearracuda is the largest attended bear dance party and most prolific gay dance event in the U.S. Fever - Southern Decadence New Orleans: House of Blues; 225 Decatur Street; 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. Krewe Party presents “FEVER”. For more information, go to www.kreweparty.com.

DJ’s - Hector Fonseca, DJ Ana Paula, Felipe Lira. Performance by Nikki Valentine. Hosted by Boomer Banks.

Tickets: Presale - $15; GA $20.

Acid Dungeon - A Rave Raw Experience for SRN Decadence; Poor Boys Bar; 1328 St. Bernard Avenue; 10 p.m. - 6 a.m. FUNCTION presents: ACID DUNGEON - A Raw Rave Experience featuring: FATHER FIGURE (TRAX ONLY) Mark Louque + FUNCTION Residents: DJ ASICS; XIVIX David Yaconi; QUICK WEAVE. Hosted By: Ross Ransom and MISS HOT GIRL BIJOUX Aun T Sandy. For more information, go to https://www.instagram.com/function504.

GrrlFest Wet! - Decadence and Southern Decadence 2018; The Drifter Hotel; 3522 Tulane Avenue; 8 p.m. 2 a.m. Join Grrlspot for WET! A non-binary queer pool/dance party to kick off Southern Decadence & Dykeadence Weekend! With DJ’s, dancing, lots of wet fun in the pool, dancers, food pop-ups, and so much more! Night 1 of GrrlFest: Dykeadence & Southern Decadence Weekend 2018! We will be outside from 8pm-12am, and from 12am-2am we’ll move the dance party inside.

Queen B Drag Brunch: Broussard’s Restaurant; 819 Conti Street; First seating at 11:30 a.m. There will be two shows 11am and 1:30pm. Reservations can be made on OpenTable.

The show will feature The Southern Barbitchuates.

Lube Wrestling: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; starts at 11 p.m.

NOLA PAHS (The Pups) will get wild and wet wrestling each other and then showering in our world famous shower.

Saturday. September 1, 2018 Southern Decadence Drag Brunch: Brennan’s Restuarant; 417 Royal Street; First seating at 9:30 a.m. Kick Up Your Heels. Sprinkle on the Glitter, and Brunch at Brennan’s! They are delighted to host the 1st annual Southern Decadence Drag Brunch featuring Coca Mesa & DJ Tim Pflueger on Saturday, September 1st, with 2 seatings of 8 live performances - 9:30 am and 12:30 pm. Enjoy a 3 Course Menu starring iconic dishes like Baked Apple, Eggs Hussarde, Creole Shrimp Salad and Vanilla Scented French Toast.

Tickets are $95 inclusive and each table will receive a bottle of sparkling wine accompanied by fresh watermelon, peach and orange juices. Reservations and advance payment required by contacting Ashley Hill - Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm, 504-934-3376 or email ahill@neworleans-food.com.

Reservations available for tables of 4, 6 and 8. Must purchase entire table at time of reservation. Attendees must be 18 or older.

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

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Divas R Us; Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 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 St.; 4 7 p.m. Sing along with your favorite songs with talented piano player Trey Ming.

CAT 5 Hurricane Saturdays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St. 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.

Drag Dingo: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 6 - 8 p.m. Catch ChiChi Rodriquez, Persana Shoulders or Lisa Beaumann for Drag Bingo! 11 games of Bingo, 11 chances to win prizes! All the fun starts at 6 pm till 8 pm in their upstairs bar with your favorite bottom, Jake, slinging drinks all night long!

New Orleans Pride Run/Walk: Crescent Park; 30 N. Peters Street; 9 a.m. - noon. Come out to the inaugural New Orleans Pride Run & Walk. The 5K event will start and finish along the Mississippi River at The Crescent Park, blocks from the French Quarter. Members, friends, and allies of the LGBTQ+ community are encouraged to show their pride and join us for the run and walk. Further event details and sponsorship opportunities are now available at runNOTC.org.

Bourbon Street Extravaganza: Napoleon’s Itch; 734 Bourbon Street; 6 - 9 p.m. Chuck Robinson and Ron Julian, owners of Napoleon’s Itch present the 14th Annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza. This free concert is open to the public on Bourbon Street in the 700 block. The line-up includes Jeanie Tracy; Jennifer Holiday, Deborah Cox and the Prancing Rockets.

Mr. Louisiana Leather: The Allways Lounge; 2240 St. Claude Avenue; 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. The Lords of Leather present: MR LOUISIANA LEATHER 2019. $15 VIP guaranteed front section seats ; $5 general admission. Tickets can be found at: https://mystic-krewe-of-lords-of-leather.ticketleap.com/mr-louisiana-leather-contest-vip-seating/.

Contestant

applications can be found at www.lordsofleather.org.

Horse Meat Disco: Ace Hotel; 600 Carondelet Street; 9 p.m. - 3 a.m.

TRAX ONLY presents HORSE MEAT DISCO - Southern Decadence. This year marks the 47th Anniversary of SOUTHERN DECADENCE and who better to usher us into the Grand Ball Room of the ACE HOTEL than this iconic London based crew. The UK’s finest disco operators, Horse Meat Disco are back for the 3rd year with tried and tested underground disco rarities that have been rocking crowds from their base in Vauxhall, London, to dancefloors worldwide since 2009. To experience a night with Horse Meat Disco is to experience a night of pure bliss, paired with the hot and sexy energy of Southern Decadence weekend. THREE KEYS stage by House of KENZO; THE DARK ROOM by TRAX ONLY + surprise guests. Hosted by NEON Burgundy; Petty Mayonnaise; Aun T Sandy and Ross Ransom. For tickets go to Eventbrite.

GrrlFest Risque - Dykadence & Southern Decadence 2018: Eiffel Society; 2040 St. Charles Avenue; 8 p.m.

- 3 a.m. The party of the year is here!!

Join us for Risq, the largest, sexiest indoor party of Southern Decadence!

Night 2 of GrrlFest: Dykeadence & Southern Decadence Weekend 2018, Presented by GrrlSpot and Love Shack Entertainment!

Girl | Crush Decadence Blow Party: Coyote Ugly; 225 N. Peters Street; starting at noon. Lez get drrrty for Southern Decadence! girl | CRUSH is teaming up with our squad from Coyote Ugly again to bring you the only girl party in the Quarter during Southern Decadence. Drink Specials, Dancers on the Bar, and FREE stuff from Miller Light all day long. Come play with the girls for SoDec at the largest woman owned bar in the country.

Glamarama Live - A Southern Decadence Fundraiser: Cafe Istanbul; 2372 St. Claude Avenue; 7 - 10 p.m.

Glam it up for Southern Decadence by catching Glamarama, New Orleans’ Premier Glam Rock Band, live as they perform the classic glam hits you know and love. Doors open at 7:00

GENE’S PO BOYS & ILY’S BISTRO 1040 ELYSIAN FIELDS AVE. NEW ORLEANS, LA 70117

GENE’S: 504-943-3861 ILY’S: 504-947-8341

CORNER OF ST. CLAUDE AVE & ELYSIAN FIELDS

NOW ON

pm. Show starts at 8:00 pm. General Admission is $15. Reserved Seating is $25.Proceeds benefit Southern Decadence and its official charities--Team Friendly and the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana.

Bette, Bathhouse & Beyond: Allways Lounge; 2240 St. Claude Avenue; 10 p.m - 4 a.m. Daniel Nardicio brings Bette, Bathhouse & Beyond to New Orleans for one night only during Southern Decadence/Labor Day weekend this year at the Allways Lounge.

Powerhouse singer and comedienne Amber Martin recreates one of Bette Midler’s iconic shows at NYC’s infamous gay bathhouse the Continental Baths from 1971. The audience at the Allways Lounge will be required to don only towels (provided by the DWORLD NOLA staff) to recreate the vibe of the famed bathhouse. DJ Johnny Dynell will be playing “Bathhouse Disco” from the era. He has been a part-time resident of NOLA for several years and is eager to return for this special night.

Expect the unexpected, too, at “B,B and B” as surprise musical guests will also drop by. BYOT (bring your own towel or pay $2.00 to rent one from the Dworld Nola crew).

Showtime on Rampart: GrandPre’s; 834 N. Rampart Street; starts at 10 p.m. The Southern Barbitchuates will be performing their award winning special Southern Decadence Revue.

They were voted the best drag show on the Gulf Coast.

Mr. Louisiana Leather 2019 Contest Saturday Sept 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Allways Lounge Theater 2240 St. Claude Ave. Come see which hot, sexy man from the Gulf Coast will win the coveted sash and title this year. VIP table seating at https://mystic-kreweof-lords-of-leather.ticketleap.com/ mr-louisiana-leather-contest-vip-seating/ General admission will be $5.00 at door.

Sunday, September 2, 2018 Bottomless Sundays: Double Play Bar; 439 Dauphine St.. 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 St.; 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.

Jubilee: Golden Lantern; 1239 Royal St.; 5 p.m. This Sunday Funday show stars Reba Douglas and special guests.

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

Oz Show Night: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon St.; 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 Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon St.; 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.

Sunday Worship: Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans (MCCNO); 5401 S. Claiborne Ave; 10:00 a.m. New Orleans first LGBTQ church welcomes you to join us for our Sunday worship service where they celebrate God’s love for everyone.

Drag Dingo: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 6 - 8 p.m. Catch ChiChi Rodriquez, Persana Shoulders or Lisa Beaumann for Drag Bingo! 11 games of Bingo, 11 chances to win prizes! All the fun starts at 6 pm till 8 pm in their upstairs bar with your favorite bottom, Jake, slinging drinks all night long!

46th Annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade; French Quarter; 2 p.m. Come celebrate the 46th Annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Parade. The parade begins at 2pm starting at the Golden Lantern Bar, the official home of Southern Decadence, and will follow the traditional parade route through the Quarter.

Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XLIV Frank Perez and Adikus Sulpizi invite you to the Tricentennial celebration of the year. All are welcome!

A Labor Day Rose Soiree: House of Blues; 225 Decatur Street; starting at 3 p.m. The events features a Donna Summer Tribute starring Anaïs St. John. Doors / Show: 3:00PM / 3:00PM. This is an ages 18+ show. For more information about Pass the Line or Foundation Room access, please call the Box Office at 504.310.4999. For VIP seating, please contact NOLAVIP@ livenation.com.

Kitten N Lou’s Cream: Civic Theatre; 510 O Keefe Avenue; 8 p.m. The Bowery Presents South: Kitten N’ Lou’s CREAM starring RuPaul’s Drag Race glamazon Vivacious at Civic Theatre.

This is a Night Of Decadent Burlesque, Drag, and Queer as F*ck Cabaret at the Civic Theatre! Starring: Vivacious (with special guest appearance by Ornacia); Kitten N’ Lou; Jett Adore; Sweetpea; Vinsantos; Apostrophe; Bella Blue and many more. After the wild success of three years of sold out shows, the fourth installment of the most anticipated event of the weekend returns for one night only, and is movin’ on up to the glorious Civic Theatre! Come top off an already decadent weekend with a hefty spoonful of CREAM: A rare night of rich and delicious striptease, drag, and gender-f*cked cabaret. Presented by Kitten N’ Lou, recently voted the #1 Burlesque Artists in the World (Burlesque Top 50), this year’s spectacle features a star-studded cast of rare-

26 · The1Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 6/1/18 August 14PM- 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com Untitled-6 12:49

ly-seen-in-New Orleans drag and burlesque superstars, including RuPaul’s Drag Race star and NYC club kid legend Vivacious, award-winning Male Burlesque superstar Jett Adore and a cavalcade of wild and wonderful guest stars. For tickets, go to www.ticketfly. com.

Golden Lantern Outdoor Drag Show: 1239 Royal Street; 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Show will begin on Sunday 3rd of September at 11:00 am. Live music followed by outdoor drag show until 2 pm when the Grand marshals will make there toast and the parade will begin.

Stick around for more live music and drag through out the evening.

Sabertooth Swing: The Allways Lounge; 2240 St. Claude Avenue; starts at 9 p.m. Weekly Sunday Swing dance & CD release party! New Or-

leans-based jazz band Sabertooth Swing just released their debut album Extinct Possibilities pack-full of lively swing music with crossover appeal and a breath of fresh air in an otherwise venerable genre. In the spirit of a music made with and for people, with an organic connection between music, dance and fun, we sure hope that you’ll enjoy the Sabertooth Swing’s debut album and, who knows, might find yourself irresistibly tapping a toe or shuffling a foot while you listen. Free admission.

XXL The Party: The Phoenix; 941 Elysian Fields; 2 - 5 p.m. Get ready for some fun in the hot, steamy swamp.

What adventures await you on the bayou? The Phoenix will close the entire bar for the most exclusive private party of Southern Decadence. They are

proud to welcome Atlas Grant and Bennett Anthony (NSFW) for XXL: The Party. Only a limited number of tickets will be available. Enjoy an open bar for well cocktails and domestic beers.

A coat check will be available. Go to Eventbrite for tickets.

Monday, September 3, 2018 Karaoke Monday: The Bourbon Pub; 801 Bourbon St.; 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy happy hour prices all night long. Hosted by Denny with VJ Dollabill.

S.I.N. Night: The Corner Pocket; 940 St. Louis St.; Starting at 9 p.m.

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

Pool Tournament: Rawhide 2010;

740 Burgundy St.; 9:45 p.m. $2 PBR and $50 gift certificate for Rawhide Lazy Susan Karaoke: Oz New Orleans; 800 Bourbon Street; 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Join bartender Mark and a revolving cast of drag queen hostesses for LAZY SUSAN KARAOKE with Music

by DJ Lucius Riley. Mondays are a drag, so make them fabulous and sing the night away.

Southern Decadence Leftovers Survivors Bar Crawl: French Quarter; Starts at noon. Check their Facebook page for the route this year. A time honored tradition celebrating the life of one of the original organizers Ted Mahaffey. The bar crawl begins at the Corner Pocket and ends at GrandPre’s of a scrumptious buffet.

Ambush on the Road Tony Leggio ledgemgp@gmail.com

One of my passions is to travel, whether for fun or work. Recently I went to Chicago for work but somehow managed to enjoy myself whilst there.

I stayed at an excellent downtown hotel. The Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is a 4-star property near the Theatre District, Millennium Park and Art Institute of Chicago. The service was exceptional with a sleek, sophisticated atmosphere. It’s an ideal property for the business traveler, but close to all the hot spots for leisure visitors. They have a fabulous lobby – love their furniture.

But my favorite part of this property is Raised | An Urban Rooftop Bar. When you walk in, you pass a large illuminated sign that says “A Guy Walks Into A Bar.” The bar is both indoor/outdoor and has a scenic view of the city and river. They have some delicious craft cocktails, tasty food and good service. I stopped in twice during my brief visit and both times, it was packed, so it is definitely a locals place also. And, their room service is spot on. They food comes quick, is really good and is

served in the cutest little containers. I was very impressed with this hotel.

The convention I attended was at the massive McCormick Center, a pretty amazing venue with four stateof-the-art buildings that attract three million visitors each year plus an expansive series of pedestrian promenades and sky bridges linking the entire campus.

But it was not all work, I was able to go to two top restaurants in the city, both local favorites. The first was the Italian restaurant Petterino’s. Steps from Michigan Avenue, Petterino’s specializes in classic Italian dining, prime steaks and fresh seafood. If you love Italian food, this has got to be one of the best places in Chicago.

From the ambiance and service to the cuisine, everything was perfect. The restaurant’s walls are lined with framed caricatures of very famous people (I’m guessing who have visited the place).

For appetizers, I had the flash fried calamari and the crispy burrata; and for an entrée, their parmesan encrusted filet trio is divine. But save room for

dessert, because their pink peppermint ice cream with hot fudge is to die for!

I scored another home run with the Mediterranean favorite Greek Islands considered one of the most popular Greek restaurants in the United States.

Since 1971, the owners have given guests an incredible Greek culinary experience.

I enjoyed the Flaming Saganaki Cheese (I love anything that flames up) and the grilled octopus for appetizers. You can’t go wrong with any of the entrees especially their moussaka, a traditional recipe of baked eggplant, ground meat and potato casserole topped with beìchamel sauce, or their Arni Aginarato, Colorado lamb with fresh artichokes hearts served in an egg-lemon sauce.

The waiters at both restaurants were fun and festive, and enhanced my dining experience. I highly recommend both establishments.

In addition to being a food town, Chicago has lots of theatres offering touring Broadway shows. I managed to catch the new Heartbreak Hotel at

the Broadway Playhouse. This prequel to the hit Million Dollar Quartet (which I enjoyed tremendously) follows the story of Elvis Presley in the early years of his career as he and Sam Phillips create the music that will forever change their lives. As Elvis’s career skyrockets, both lifting and shattering the lives of those he loves, a secret love story is revealed, a betrayal is discovered, and “Colonel” Tom Parker changes the course of history, all in just 18 short months.

This new musical features hit songs from the King himself as well as the legends who influenced his iconic music, with chart-toppers including Blue Suede Shoes, That’s All Right Momma, Shake, Rattle, and Roll, and, of course, Heartbreak Hotel. The show was wonderful and perfect for any Elvis fan. The writer Floyd Mutrux was actually on hand in the audience for this performance. Very cool!

So even though it was a quick trip, I had a lot of fun in one of my favorite US cities. I hope you enjoy some of my recommendations.

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio At Cocktails and Bites for Southern Decadence at the Dow Estate in the French Quarter

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 27

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with TJ at the Red Dress Run

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio At Let’s Get Cheesy Southern Decadence Fundraiser at Adikus’ House

28 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Party Down Tony Leggio ledgemgp@gmail.com My two weeks were filled with travel, Southern Decadence fundraisers, theatre, gallery openings, cocktails and a little white linen. I started my weekend with an art opening at Severio Gallery. San Francisco artist Leroy Morvant had a cocktail reception for his exhibition of original paintings, pillows, coasters and home goods. Leroy has a close connection with the city through his brother Daniel who lives here. Arthur was his usual glamorous self as he entertained guests. If you have not been to a gallery opening at Arthur Severio’s you do not know what you are missing. He finds some of the best artists.

The following day, I attended the first of two Southern Decadence fundraisers. Get Cheesy for Decadence!, a wine, cheese, & pool party, took place at the Marigny home of current Southern Decadence Grand Marshal Adikus Sulpizi. Guests relaxed in his gorgeous new pool and hot tub. His home is an ideal spot for parties with lots of areas to sit, chill and talk with people.

There were cocktails and wine as well as a vast selection of cheese-oriented hors d’oeuvres and desserts. The majority of the food was provided by the hottest new LGBT caterer in town, Matt Hester who owns Suga.

I started my Sunday by attending a pool party fundraiser for Slotted Spoon Productions’ new musical, I Wrote a Song. They had quite a bevy of lovely boys in attendance trying to beat the heat and they raised quite a few dollars for this exciting new show set to premier in October. I love all the new theatre companies cropping up over our city. We need more live theatre!

Speaking of new companies, I saw The Aliens presented by Beaubourg at Pralines by Jean located on St. Charles Avenue. The Aliens premiered Off-Broadway in 2010, and takes place in a small town in Vermont. Two 30ish

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men, Jasper and KJ, meet to discuss music and poetry in an alley behind a coffee shop. They discuss their band, which was called (among many things) The Aliens. When Evan, a high school student who works at the coffee shop arrives, the men “decide to teach him everything they know.” This dramedy has lots of funny parts. All three actors were fine, but I especially found newcomer Conor Doremus hysterical.

His shy, nerdy innocence played well against the other two so-called wisened men of the world.

The following week started with the NOAGE (New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders) potluck at the Community Church Unitarian Universalist located in Lakeview. The evening’s crowd was jovial and large. Each month this event gets more popular.

Everyone brings a dish (either homemade or store bought, though you do not have to bring a dish or be elderly to attend) and sits down for lively conversation and fellowship. It’s a wonderful way to meet new, interesting people and I highly recommend people of all ages to partake of these events.

On Friday, I went to the opening reception at M Contemporary Art on Julia Street. Krewe of Armeinius members came out not only to get a sneak peek at the new location of the gallery, but to see featured artist and Armeinius member Freddie Guess as he revealed the larger-than-life portrait of King L Ned Pitre. The portrait was a fun nod to the Krewe’s 50th ball and featured not only Ned front and center but also his pages, the four captains and his queen. If you missed White Linen night, I highly suggest stopping by the gallery and seeing Freddie’s works.

On Saturday, it was all about the white linen. Some friends and I ventured to Julia Street to the annual Julia Street Block Party. Originally created by the Contemporary Arts Center,

this is the noteworthy museum’s largest fundraiser and where we began our evening. The CAC held their opening reception of their new exhibition Constructing the Break, a very interesting show which I urge people who have not yet seen it, to take in. Next, we hit the streets and went to a few galleries. My favorites were Jonathan Ferrara Gallery, Arthur Roger Gallery, LeMieux Galleries, Ariodante Contemporary Art and Soren Christensen Gallery.

But my absolute favorite was the anti-Trump exhibit at Boyd Satellite.

This is the first solo show of the witty and talented artist Max Peck.

We also went to the CAC’s Cool Down Lounge located in the private event space at the hot new dining concept Auction House which is similar to the St. Roch and Pythian Markets. It was a cool escape from the crowd and the food was outstanding.

But the party was not just on the street. We went to three Creole Cuisine venues for some over-the-top fun.

NOSH had a night of Moet and Chandon – which I am a sucker for a good champagne party. Then we went to Tomas Bistro for their shindig which included photo opps, several bars and a

DJ playing some incredible music. Our last stop was Flamingo A Go-Go for their glow party. They had a live band, drink specials and a pretty crowd. We finally ended our evening back at the CAC for their official after-party which had dancing featuring DJ RQ Away, a marvelous way to top off the evening.

We even had a star sighting--got to say hello to C.C.H. Pounder from NCIS New Orleans.

I ended my two weeks with a Southern Decadence fundraiser at the lovely French Quarter home of Matt Dow. This laid-back cocktail reception featured wonderful cuisine by Suga, craft cocktails, DJ Justin Betweener spinning some super tunes and an opportunity to explore the “Batman” house which also boasts a very haunted past.

I would like to thank the wonderfully resourceful Countess C Alice (Daryl Dunaway) for all his help in putting this together. All the proceeds went to benefit Southern Decadence 2018 and its charities Mr. Friendly Team NOLA and LGBT+ Archives. A great time was had by all and the party extended hours after the end time of 6 p.m. Now that is how to end a weekend.

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Tulane offense under Fritz ready to produce winning results Tulane football coach Wilie Fritz has always stepped up to face a challenge.

His career record indicates that his college efforts have been more than just successful. Fritz has won 202 times in 292 games as a head coach.

Although he’s posted just 9-15 during his tenure with the Green Wave, Fritz seems to have turned the corner.

Many say nothing shy of a bowl appearance is acceptable this season at Tulane.

The high hopes begin with his senior quarterback Jonathan Banks. Fritz sees a more polished and experienced product entering his second season with the Wave.

“He’s had a couple of years starting experience at the collegiate level,” Fritz detailed during Tulane’s annual media day Tuesday. “He played in JUCO, and usually those coverages and fronts are not quite as advanced as what you’ll see at the Division I level. He’s seen all the different fronts (now), disguises, coverages and having to make in game adjustments.”

Helping Banks, a dual threat, will also be easier for the Tulane staff with a year’s experience together.

“As a coaching staff, we have to figure out the things that Jonathan is really good at and adapt our play calling to his abilities. He’s also learned the offense better. He’s a true veteran now. He’s got a great handle on what he’s doing,” Fritz explained.

The 6-foot-2, 230 pound Houston native understands that as he goes, so

Rene Nadeau, Crescent City Sports goes the offense. He’s reached a comThe Green Wave lost proven comfort level overall. modities Dontrell Hilliard and Sherman “We’ve improved the chemistry,” Badie to graduation. The collectively Banks said. “I really didn’t know the rushed for 1,441 yards and 15 touchoffense last year. Year two I feel more downs last season. But Fritz believes comfortable.” the running back stable is far from Banks ran for 592 yards and seven bare.” touchdowns, with 1,797 more yards via “Sherman and Dontrell had great the air. He three for 12 scores and five careers at Tulane. Both of those guys interceptions. are in NFL camps,” Fritz continued.

“I’ve been working on my accu“But I really think that we’re loaded at racy. You just have to get ball to your the position.” (receivers) in stride and let them make Junior Darius Bradwell, a plays,” Banks said.

230-pound load of a back experience In order for Banks to be productive, while sophomore scatback Stephon he must to play smart and stay injury Huderson brings big play ability after free. Fritz preaches “first down, touchan impressive prep career at Petal down, get down” to his quarterbacks.

High School in Mississippi.

Banks noted, “Being able to protect Fritz also mentioned Warren myself and stay healthy throughout the Easton alum Devin Glenn, a senior season, that’s big and very important. who has seen limited opportunities I’ll keep that in mind all season.” with the Wave. “He might be the fastest The Green Wave coaching staff player in our conference.” have made a bit of an adjustment Corey Dauphine, a redshirt junior in their run-first philosophy in recent who transferred to Tulane from Texas years, giving their QBs the benefits of Tech, may join Bradwell as the one-two RPOs (Run-Pass options) to attack depunch to replace Hilliard and Badie. fenses.

A pair of freshmen, Cam Carroll “This is what you have to do ofand Amare Jones, are also competing fensively nowadays,” Fritz said. “What for snaps. we were running at Sam Houston “We have a lot of talent backs,” and Georgia Southern was the Triple Fritz said.

Option. We had a lot of success, but At the receiver spots, Tulane is teams start packing the box. You have looking to rely on Terren Encalade, more people than you can account for. a Belle Chasse product who has 99 If you can’t throw the ball, take advancareer grabs for 1,508 yards and 10 tage of one on ones, then you’ve got touchdowns. If he at least duplicates problems. That’s what we’ve evolved his 2017 numbers as a senior, he will to. We started throwing the ball effecend his career in the top 10 all-time in tively in 2017.”

Green Wave receiving history.

The New Orleans Pelicans announced the signing of free agent center Jahlil Okafor to a one-year deal with a team option for a second season.

Okafor was drafted third overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2015 draft, behind Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell.

After a solid rookie campaign where he averaged 17.5 points and 7.0 rebounds in 53 games, Okafor’s career fell off a cliff as teammate Joel Embiid emerged to become the 76ers franchise player.

Okafor also struggled defensively and turned it over nearly twice as often as he made an assist.

Last season Okafor played in only 28 games, just two with the Sixers before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets for a second round pick.

So why would the Pelicans bring Okafor in?

The risk is low. Okafor’s contract is only partially guaranteed. If he doesn’t work out, it’s pretty easy for the team to move on.

David Grubb, Crescent City Sports 68 percent of his attempts. For comThe Pelicans are also in need of parison, Anthony Davis is among the a true backup center. Anthony Davis elite at 72 percent. prefers not to play there and both Niko This offseason, Okafor appears Mirotic and Julius Randle, while solid to have gotten into much better shape defenders, are undersized at the posiand shown commitment to working on tion. his ball handling and outside shooting.

Last season, Emeka Okafor was He seems like an athlete fully aware solid and helped spark the team’s 10that his chances to prove himself are game win streak, but he is also 36 years old as well as a limited offensive player.

Dell Demps has been pretty open Gulf Coast Equality Council With in his desire to acquire Okafor. As they Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort & Harrah’s Gulf Coast Present approached the 2017 trade deadline, Okafor was the Pelicans’ initial target for a big man to team with Anthony Davis.

Now, Demps gets his man at a great price and without giving up talent or picks to do so.

The incoming Okafor, just 22 years old, hasn’t experienced much team success in the NBA. He has displayed some talent though.

For his career, Jahlil Okafor has shot the ball at nearly a 52 percent clip.

At the rim he’s converting better than

Darnell Mooney, a junior with 58 career catches for 866 yards and six touchdowns is another target capable of explosive plays.

“Both have a great understanding of the offense,” noted Fritz.

Freddy Canteen, a grad transfer who has played in big time programs Notre Dame and Michigan, is also expected to make an impact.

Senior tight end Charles Jones, a senior out of St. Augustine, is primed for a big season as well.

“He has as good a set of hands as anyone in our football program,” Fritz said regarding Jones. “He’s very explosive.”

Building a program to win requires mature student-athletes who embrace the cerebral portion of the game. Fritz sounds like a coach confident in the mental game his squad brings to the table.

“Football IQ is something that you can really develop. You’ve got to have a great staff in order to do that. One of the advantages we have at Tulane is we have a certain standard in our students. So, you’re dealing with more of an academic sound guy. That usually translates into smarter football players.”

Tulane has the right mix of talent, maturity and savvy to win. Now all they have to do is go out and do it this fall.

This article was originally published

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

Jahlil Okafor must turn talent into production to stick with Pelicans

dwindling.

Okafor should be motivated entering camp. Staying the NBA will be an earned privilege, not a gift.

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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30 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Depth of preseason roster stands out in Saints’ win over Jaguars Les East, Crescent City Sports METAIRIE – The Saints won their preseason opener. That’s better than the alternative, but it means very little.

The “starting units,” especially the defense, didn’t play all that well.

It would have been nice if they had played better, but that means very little as well.

The Saints team that beat the Jacksonville Jaguars, 24-20, on Thursday night is not the Saints team that will play in the regular season.

Most notably, Drew Brees, Cam Jordan and Alex Okafor didn’t play.

The units that didn’t play so well in the beginning and the units that provided the come-from-behind win won’t take the field in the regular season as they were comprised Thursday night.

But if you want to read something into the team aspects of this game, there is this: Based on the individual performances we saw the deeper the teams went into the depth charts, New Orleans seems to have better depth

than Jacksonville, especially considering how the Saints defensive line and pass rush outperformed the Jaguars offensive line.

More than anything else, preseason games are about player evaluation, deciding the depth chart and opening-day roster based on how practice performances do or don’t translate to game conditions.

Keeping that in mind, here are some impressions of the preseason opener: Linebacker Jayrone Elliott, defensive end Mitchell Loewen and defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth should be on your radar if they weren’t already there. Each is far from securing a roster spot, but they might be a little bit closer after the game than they were before the game.

The backup quarterback competition is what we thought it was. Taysom Hill made several plays and might have shown better quarterbacking skills than

he has shown in practice, but he didn’t change the perception that he is less prepared to play quarterback in a real game than Tom Savage is.

The Saints want to see if Brandon Tate is a better option than Tommylee Lewis as the fifth wide receiver and primary return specialist. Maybe he is, maybe he isn’t, but the coaches want to get a fair evaluation of the late arrival.

Jonathan Williams is the thirdbest halfback on the roster and Boston Scott will be hard to cut, though that could still happen. That’s not bad news for Trey Edmunds because his special-teams value keeps him in a strong position.

A lot can change with three more preseason games, but it could be that neither of the veteran running backs signed – Terrence West and Shane Vereen – makes the team.

Tre’Quan Smith performed in the game just as he has in practice – very

well, especially for a rookie third-round draft choice.

If P.J. Williams’ injury is not serious (and reportedly it’s just a bruised rib), then the Saints accomplished their primary goal in the game, which was to avoid any significant injuries.

De’Vante Harris’ two penalties outweighed a very nice pass breakup that he had.

Vonn Bell’s missed tackle on a Jaguars touchdown was one of the poorest plays of the night, but he still has a solid spot in the rotation.

Perhaps we’ll see some more starters in the home opener against Arizona next Friday, and no roster spots were won or lost against the Jaguars.

Stay tuned.

This article was originally published

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

Pelicans announce 2018-19 regular season schedule Matt Ryan, Crescent City Sports

New Orleans opens season at Houston on Oct. 17; Home opener vs.

Sacramento on Oct. 19 NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Pelicans announced today their

2018-19 regular season schedule, which will tip off on Wednesday, October 17 against the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center. New Orleans will host its regular season home opener

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against the Sacramento Kings on Friday, October 19 at the Smoothie King Center.

The Pelicans will be featured on national television 13 times during the 2018-19 campaign. In addition to the season opener at Houston, ESPN is scheduled to broadcast New Orleans’ matchups at Minnesota (Nov. 14), vs.

Oklahoma City (Dec. 12), at the Los Angeles Lakers (Dec. 21), at Golden State (Jan. 16), at Portland (Jan. 18), vs. Minnesota (Feb. 8), and at the L.A. Lakers (Feb. 27). TNT is scheduled to televise five Pelicans contests – at Portland (Nov. 1), at Memphis (Jan. 21), at Houston (Jan. 29), vs. Oklahoma City (Feb. 14), and vs. Milwaukee (Mar. 12).

Eighteen of the Pelicans’ 41 games at the Smoothie King Center will be played on Friday (8), Saturday (7), or Sunday (3). All home games are scheduled to tip off at 7:00 p.m., with the exception of six Saturday night contests and two Sunday games (Dec. 16 vs. Miami, Mar. 24 vs. Houston) tipping off at 6:00 p.m.; one Saturday game (Jan. 26 vs. San Antonio) and one Sunday contest (Mar. 31 vs. L.A. Lakers) that will tip-off at 5:00 p.m.; and a Friday night matchup against Minnesota on Feb. 8, which will begin at 8:30 p.m. as part of ESPN’s national double-header.

The Pelicans’ longest homestand

is a five-game stretch from Mar. 24 through Apr. 3 when New Orleans hosts Houston, Atlanta, Sacramento, the L.A. Lakers, and Charlotte. The Pelicans have two five-game road trips – Oct. 29 through Nov. 5 with games in Denver, Golden State, Portland, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City; and Jan. 12-21 with stops in Minnesota, Los Angeles (Clippers), Golden State, Portland, and Memphis.

New Orleans will play Western Conference opponents four times each (2 home, 2 road), with the exception of the Golden State Warriors (1 home, 2 road), the Los Angeles Clippers (2 home, 1 road), the Portland Trail Blazers (1 home, 2 road), and the Utah Jazz (2 home, 1 road). New Orleans will also play each team in the Eastern Conference twice (1 home, 1 road).

Pelicans ticket plans are on sale now with 12-game plans starting as low as $240. For more information on how to secure the best match-ups, discounted pricing and playoff ticket priority, call (504) 525-HOOP or visit Pelicans.com.

Pelicans ticket plans are on sale now with 12-game plans starting as low as $240.

This article was originally published

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

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 31

Recruiting: LSU targets narrow as 2019 class nears full capacity Rene Nadeau, Crescent City Sports

Amite’s Ishmael Sopsher remains LSU’s top recruiting priority for the 2019 class.

One of the major dominoes fell Wednesday in LSU’s favor on the recruiting trail when 4 star wide receiver Trey Palmer from Kentwood became LSU’s 19th verbal for the 2019 class.

The 6-foot, 180 pounder has been an LSU lean for some time, but considered Alabama, Mississippi State, Florida and Arizona State. The development moves the Tigers to the No. 4 slot nationally on the 24/7 Sports recruiting board.

With the addition of Palmer, LSU has six spots remaining so the coaching staff will have to be very selective with who will fill those vacancies.

Where does LSU have to target and who will be in their sights?

At running back, the recent loss of John Emery from Destrehan to Georgia really stings. It has been made clear that he fully intended to leave the state. But with the glaring need LSU could be facing in ’19 at that position, it just can’t happen. The top running backs in Louisiana should never cross the state border to play college football. Emery is one that got away who

could prove costly to the staff.

Moving forward, LSU has two running back at the top of the 2019 board.

IMG’s Noah Cain and A’Montae Spivey are a pair that the Tigers are working hard to away their way. LSU needs at least one, if not both.

Cain, (5-11, 209), a 4 star Baton Rouge native, is considering LSU, Texas, Ohio State, Oklahoma and Penn State.

Spivey (6-1, 205), a 3 star talent, is being hounded by Tigers’ assistant Tommie Robinson. He has paired his list to include LSU and Arkansas. Purdue, UL Lafayette and Missouri are on the next tier.

A pair of 4 star receivers, Amite product Devonta Lee (6-3, 212) and Houston prepster Jalen Curry (6-3, 195), are also high on LSU’s priority list.

The newly committed Palmer has taken it upon himself to sell Lee on joining him in Tigertown. Lee is considering LSU, Alabama and Texas A&M. Curry has Auburn as his current leader with LSU, Tennessee and Arizona trailing.

Two 4 star offensive linemen are prominent on LSU’s big board –

Ruston’s Ray Parker (6-4, 280) and Deyavie Hammond (6-3, 340), a IMG Academy prospect.

Parker, a tackle, has LSU as his clear leader while the Tigers are competing with Florida State, Georgia and Miami for the massive guard Hammond.

Defensively, Amite’s Ismael Sopsher (6-4, 334) is a vital target for the Purple and Gold. The staff must do whatever necessary to secure the 5 star defensive tackle.

LSU has made up lots of ground with Sopsher and leads Alabama slightly in the sweepstakes. He represents a position of need and a player of enormous proportions.

With three linebackers already committed, the Tigers need to look closely at what is the best move at the position. A pair from the state of Alabama might make sense.

Ke’Shun Brown (6-0, 215), 3 star outside linebacker from Montgomery visited Baton Rouge on June 22. He favors LSU, Pittsburgh, Alabama and Florida right now.

Ja’Len Sims (6-1, 210) from Birmingham has narrowed his list down to LSU and Ole Miss.

With five cornerback pledges already, you would expect the Tigers to back off this spot. But with the way recruiting goes, I expect this situation to change at some point before the class is signed.

Two possibilities to join the fray include 4 star Joey Porter (6’2-185) from Wexford, Penn. LSU defensive backs coach Corey Raymond is making his case but faces stiff competition from Pitt Miami, Penn State and Nebraska. Porter, the son of the former great Steelers linebacker, has recently expressed his interest in the Tigers.

Raydarious Jones (6-2-168), a 4 star with 4.4 speed from Horn Lake has in-state Ole Miss as his favorite, but he also has interest in LSU, Alabama, Auburn and Mississippi State.

A one-time LSU target, Karr cornerback Devin Bush (6-0, 195). is no longer a possibility. Both parties decided to part ways, leaving Clemson and Tennessee as favorites to secure his signature.

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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32 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Snap Paparazzi: Out & About with Tony Leggio At Spotted Spoon Southern Decadence Fundraiser at Trey Ming’s Condo

At The NOAGE Potluck Dinner

Snap Paparazzi: The Corner Pocket Photos by Jeremy

THE CORNER POCKET Where the Boys are dancing nightly on the bar!

OPENING HOURS Everyday 9pm - TILL ADDRESS 940 St Louis Street, New Orleans, LA 70112 Phone: (504) 568-9829 www.cornerpocket.net

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 33

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.

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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 NAPOLEON’S ITCH, 734 Bourbon St., 237-4144 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

34 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

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

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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

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 Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans (MCCNO), 5401 S. Claiborne Ave — Pastor Alisan Rowland: New Orleans first LGBTQ church welcomes you to join us for our weekly Sunday worship services at 10:00 AM, where we celebrate God’s Love for everyone.

819 Rue Conti, 581.3866, http://broussards.com 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

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

Metairie, LA [504] Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop & Pub, 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 835.2022, GumboStop.com New Orleans, LA [504] The Bombay Club, 830 Rue Conti, 577.2237, www.bombayclubneworleans. com Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard,

Get Listed for $10 per Issue Want to see your business, organization, or event in our next issue?

Email Ambush sales@ambushpublishing.com

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 35

5 Ways to Manage Investors’ Top Fear: Healthcare Expenses Scot I. Billeaudeau, JD, LL.M. ADPA® s.billeaudeau@ampf.com No matter your financial situation, it’s normal to have financial concerns as you plan for the future. According to recent research from Ameriprise Financial, the number one fear for those in their 50s through 70s is managing healthcare expenses for themselves or a family member. This same concern ranks number two for investors in their 30s and 40s.1 The good news is there are steps you can take to feel more financially confident regardless of your age and current health status. The following are five strategies that can help you manage possible health expenses.

Contribute to a health savings account (HSA). If you are enrolled in a high deductible health plan, generally you are eligible to contribute to an HSA. This account is a tax-advantaged way to accumulate money that can be used to pay current out-of-pocket expenses as well as future ones, even in retirement. If you invest pre-tax dollars in an HSA, money in the account grows on a tax-deferred basis, and withdrawals used to pay for qualify-

ing medical expenses are tax-free. In 2018, you may contribute up to $3,450 pretax in an HSA if you have individual coverage and $6,850 if you have family coverage.

Have adequate disability income insurance. Your ability to earn income may be your biggest asset.

However, only 72 percent of people have long-term disability insurance, the Ameriprise research found.1 If you experience an illness or injury that prevents you from working for an extended period, not having coverage can be a significant financial setback. Many companies provide insurance to cover a portion of their employees’ income, typically 40 to 70 percent. Even if you qualify for this coverage you may want to purchase additional disability insurance so that more of your income is replaced. This may be particularly true for parents with young children, primary income-earners, and those with variable income (e.g. if commissions or bonuses make up a portion of your income).

Understand what healthcare expenses are covered by Medicare.

Once you reach age 65 you are eligible for Medicare, which many Americans use to cover medical bills. Many retirees are surprised to learn that Medicare doesn’t cover all necessary healthcare expenses, including copays, deductibles, dental care, and prescription glasses. Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care if that’s the only care you need. Check the rules to see what conditions apply for coverage. If the healthcare expenses you anticipate needing are not covered, consider purchasing supplemental insurance through Medigap or Part C, a Medicare Advantage Plan. Be aware that Medicare comes at a cost that tends to rise each year.

If you are retiring before you become eligible for Medicare, prioritize obtaining other insurance to cover the gap. Some employers allow you to retain your health plan after retirement, so check with your benefits department to see what you can expect.

Evaluate long-term care insurance options. According to Ameriprise research, 75 percent of investors do not have long-term care insurance.1 With many Americans living into their 80s, 90s and even longer, the potential of needing long-term care services is rising. Having long-term care coverage, which is less expensive to buy when you are younger, can help offset some of the healthcare costs you may face, and protect your long-term financial security. Policies cover various care needs, so explore options with a financial professional and healthcare provider.

Prepare financially for accessible housing options. As you near re-

tirement, think about housing arrangements that will fit your changing needs.

This may include finding a new home that simplifies your life and accommodates with any physical limitations you might face down the road. Alternatively, you may want to remodel your current home to make it more accessible for the future. Both options will require financial planning to ensure you can cover the costs associated with these changes.

Any decisions you make about how to handle your financial anxieties are best addressed in the context of a comprehensive financial plan. A financial advisor can help you sort through your challenges, identify your key goals and determine a strategy to help ease your concerns about the future.

1 The Ages, Stages & Money study was created by Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and conducted online by Artemis Strategy Group December 8-21, 2017 among 3,019 U.S. adults between the ages of 30-79 with at least $100,000 in investable assets. For further information and details about the study, including verification of data that may not be published as part of this report, please contact Ameriprise Financial or go to Ameriprise.com/ages.

Scot I. Billeaudeau, JD, LL.M. ADPA®, is a Financial Advisor with Waterfront Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. He specializes in addressing the unique needs of the diverse LGBTQ community, fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies, and has been in practice for 11 years.

36 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

Snap Paparazzi: Sipp’s Bar Gulfport Photos by Dwain Hertz

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 www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 37

Trodding the Boards Brian Sands bsnola2@hotmail.com

Vieux Carré at the Marigny Opera House through Aug. 25

If you have never seen Vieux Carré, and I’d guess most people reading this haven’t, I would encourage you to go to the Marigny Opera House before its run ends on August 25. Though this play comes late in Tennessee Williams’ canon, it could almost serve as a prologue to all his other works.

Set in the late 1930s, a young man, known only as “The Writer,” arrives in New Orleans and finds a room--half of a room, really--in a shabby boardinghouse at 722 Toulouse Street, just as Williams had done. Over the course of a few months, his observations of and interactions with the other lodgers there--a mismatched young couple, an aging gay painter, two down-on-theirluck older women plus the indomitable owner of the place--serve to inspire much of his future writing.

Opening in New York in 1977, Williams’ penultimate Broadway debut, Vieux Carré lasted only a few performances, despite a strong New York Times review, the result, perhaps, of a less-than-ideal production rather than the work itself. For, though not a perfect play, more a series of episodes and portraits of people, Vieux Carré shines with Williams’ deep, all-encompassing humanity.

For this Tennessee Williams Theatre Company of New Orleans production, the first in a season of Williams’ plays set in NOLA, Beau Bratcher takes a realistic approach, his very intelligent direction bringing out the script’s humor and allowing Williams’ themes to emerge organically.

Ironically, for a seldom seen play, TWTC’s presentation of Vieux Carré is the second this year here, following Dennis Monn’s immersive staging at the AllWays in March. Comparisons may be odious, but in such a situation rather unavoidable.

Unlike Christopher Weaver’s wan portrayal of The Writer at the AllWays, Jake Bartush makes him fully alive, eyes constantly darting about and absorbing all around him. Bartush, who in such previous outings as Chesapeake and The Spider Queen sported a manic energy, here keeps The Writer’s passion coiled up, his inchoate homosexual longings just beginning to find expression, in this excellent and engaging depiction of an artist as a young man.

(Did the 28-year-old Writer really need to develop a (symbolic) cataract in one eye? Probably not, but I loved the way, post-operation, Bartush off-

Jake Bartush (foreground) and the cast of Vieux Carré (Photo by James Kelley)

handedly removed the gauze bandage when a potential beau turns up at the boardinghouse.)

Kyle Daigrepont plays Nightingale, the Bourbon Street painter who caters to portrait-craving tourists. At first, I didn’t like him. “Him” who? For some reason, my initial antagonism was targeted at Daigrepont until I realized that, of course, he had completely submerged himself into this pushy, even predatory, character who so loves the sound of his own voice that any real connection with another remains evanescent. He’s the type of person you probably want to run from.

As Nightingale endangers others by selfishly ignoring his tubercular condition, Daigrepont’s brave portrayal makes such an unappealing figure sympathetic in his desperate need for, if not love, at least an audience and some physical contact. Thankfully, Daigrepont never turns him into a parody of the “tragic gay old man.”

Similarly, Tracey E Collins foreswears making landlady Mrs. Wire the witch that everybody calls her. Tough?

Yes. A little crazy? Probably. But by refusing to overplay Wire’s demanding qualities, Collins allows her more tender, motherly instincts towards The Writer (even if they may be subconsciously directed towards a lost son) to be believable as well. Certainly, it makes the loyalty of Wire’s factotum Nursie (a fine LaKesha Glover as one of the few black characters in Williams’ oeuvre) more understandable.

Despite Janet Shea and Adella Gautier’s beautifully detailed performances as those two would-be society ladies now reduced to dumpster-diving, textbook examples of maintaining dignity under duress, in this uncut version Miss Carrie and Miss Mary Maude

did not register as prominently as at the AllWays and in other productions I have seen. I kinda wished Tenn had given them more to do.

Interestingly, at the AllWays, the storyline of Tye, a low-class Bourbon Street strip club bouncer, and Jane, a decent gal escaping her comfortable New Rochelle upbringing, made the most impact, due to the raw Apache dance of death Mac Taylor and, especially, Emilie Whelan engaged in.

For this Carré, Megan Whittle (Jane) and Levi Hood (Tye) are simply miscast. Both endow their characters with overall good, well-informed acting choices, but Hood lacks an innate rough edge and Whittle remains too proper; you don’t believe that this Jane would have run away to the hedonistic, post-Depression Quarter unlike Whelan’s more bohemian rendering.

Because of this, the second act, which focuses on Jane and Tye, seems unnecessarily drawn out; one could go home at intermission feeling satisfied with a worthy 90-minute dramedy.

But having seen Vieux Carré twice recently, while certainly not in the same league as Streetcar, Cat or Menagerie, I think a better case could be made for this memory play.

Those familiar with Williams, and theatergoers here are probably more so than anywhere else in the country, might sense that he’s merely recycling some of his old storylines (the older man who takes home a trick and then transforms into drag (And Tell Sad Stories of the Death of Queens); rape and the hope for a businessman savior (Streetcar); even bed bugs as a plot device (The Lady of Larkspur Lotion)) in it. Vieux Carré is, alas, no career summing-up a la Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

Its themes (loneliness, poverty, homelessness of all sorts), however, still resonate; its almost Escherian representation of a writer writing and taking notes for what would become the play, brilliantly limns the creative process; and if some of the dialog now sounds stilted, other portions remain as gorgeous as ever (particularly The Writer’s reminiscences of his grandmother).

And no one can match Williams’ way with a line of character-revealing poignancy, e.g., “Loneliness is an affliction” or “Don’t be so honest in this dishonest world.”

So while I can admire Bratcher’s achingly straightforward interpretation, for which Dustin Gibson’s scenic design fills the Marigny Opera House’s vastness with a chockablock series of barely livable warrens, Vieux Carré requires a more expressionistic one to fully capture its fever dream nature.

How about this? A traditional first act like TWTC’s and, after intermission, something wilder, perhaps like the AllWays version, using a more evocative lighting scheme and more innovative staging techniques. I suspect Williams, who experimented with form and content throughout his career, would approve.

The Last! at The Drifter Hotel through Aug. 18

If you’re a fan of Fringey/amateur theatricals, acrobatics, semi-synchronized swimming and/or tales involving witches, unicorns and evil rulers, by all means go see The Last!, a 35-minute (or hour, including pre-show audience interactions) water ballet parody inspired by Peter Beagle’s The Last Uni-

38 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

corn written and directed by Alayne Gobeille that plays in and around the pool at the über-chic Drifter Hotel.

If not, well, you get my drift...

New in New York

During a recent visit to New York, I took some chances on some new, quirky plays. Some paid off, some didn’t, and there was one lovely surprise.

Up-and-coming playwright Young Jean Lee has been called “the most adventurous downtown playwright of her generation” and is currently making history by being the first Asian American woman to have a play produced on Broadway, so I wanted to see her Straight White Men (Helen Hayes Theater thru Sept. 9).

Lee has said she wanted to explore an identity that felt the most challenging to her to portray, hence the play’s title and its tale of a widower and his three adult sons, all liberals, who come together to celebrate Christmas.

Straight White Men begins, however, with a framing device, slightly reminiscent of the start of The Taming of the Shrew, as two “Persons in Charge” (trans activist Kate Bornstein and two-spirit actor Ty Defoe) welcome the audience and make us feel comfortable...or not.

From there, SWM evolves into a fairly straightforward family drama involving traditions and privilege, familial

expectations and little tragedies, and a priceless parody of the title song of Oklahoma!

Well-written, -directed (Anna D. Shapiro) and -acted (Josh Charles, Armie Hammer, Stephen Payne, Paul Schneider), Straight White Men is interesting and provocative, but with a too thin narrative, something seems to be missing as it becomes more an essayistic play of ideas rather than a compelling drama.

Having adored Robert O’Hara’s Bootycandy, I went to Summer Shorts 2018 Series A (59E59 Theater B through Aug. 31) expecting his new one-act play The Living Room to be interesting and provocative and, boy, was it!

Employing pointed barbs and scathing humor, Room deftly explores the topic of race; suffice to say, one of its two characters is the “last living white woman on earth.” Set in a Pirandellian funhouse, O’Hara, who also directed, beautifully crafts his words to make this simple production seem grander than it appears. Surreal and devastating, The Living Room magnificently unsettles those open to its boundless imagination.

The other two works on the program, Kenny’s Tavern by Abby Rosebrock and Grounded by Chris Bohjalian, provide more traditional slices of life, both interesting, the latter more comic until it’s not.

Tavern, set in West Virginia’s foothills on the eve of the 2016 election, involves two charter school teachers discussing things professional, political & personal, and a troubled teenager who’s been on the margins of their lives. In Grounded, two transatlantic flight attendants engage in cute, witty, if not entirely believable, banter until it takes an unexpected turn and remains on that path with only semi-dramatic results.

Though all three playlets featured an especially high caliber of acting, what a pleasant surprise it was to discover, when the lights went up on Kenny’s Tavern, former New Orleanian Francesca Fernandez McKenzie on stage as one of the teachers. I had last seen, and admired, her in Mister Paradise (part of the Tennessee Williams Festival’s The Hotel Plays) before she went off to study at the Yale School of Drama. Let’s hope this will be the first of many appearances on NYC stages for her.

Another NOLA connection led me to The House That Will Not Stand (New York Theater Workshop, run finished) as it’s Marcus Gardley’s adaptation of Federico García Lorca’s The House of Bernarda Alba reset in an Esplanade Avenue mansion in the early 1800s.

While its examination of plaçage, by which women of color entered into contractual agreements to serve as

Francesca Fernandez McKenzie and Stephen Guarino in Kenny’s Tavern, part of Summer Shorts 2018 (Photo by Carol Rosegg)

mistresses of white men, was elucidative and some passages blossomed with lyrical grace, its somewhat strange mix of low comedy and high drama was pitched by director Lileana Blain-Cruz at too consistent an emotional level.

Still, I’m glad I saw it, having missed Loyola’s 2016 production, particularly for Harriett D. Foy’s mesmerizing performance as both the family’s put-upon house slave who hopes to acquire her freedom and, in an extraordinary mystical transformation, as the matriarch’s now-dead lover come back to life. I don’t think anything like that ever actually happened in New Orleans. Or did it?

Please send press releases and notices of your upcoming shows to Brian Sands at bsnola2@hotmail.com.

to our

lgbtq community:

we see

you & you

matter. no matter what the administration says.

www.crescentcare.org | 504.207.CARE(2273)

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 39

Conflict All Around

Pastor Allie Rowland Metropolitan Community Church of New Orleans (MCCNO) alisan.rowloand@gmail.com

How do two people see the same experience so differently? Maybe it’s the family event that you and your brother or sister remember completely differently. Maybe it’s the co-worker who never seems to understand your perspective. Maybe it’s the current political divide. Sometimes we don’t understand the thinking and perspective of those we encounter weekly, or even daily. How do we decide what’s true and what’s the wisest or best perspective? Is it our perspective? Someone else’s? A combination of the two?

If part of our spiritual lives is to seek what’s true and noble and good, then how can we be sure that we have the truth? How can we be certain that another opinion doesn’t have validity? In our confusion and frustration, how do we determine and live the best truth in the midst of competing perspectives and opinions?

Religious traditions like to claim they have the truth, the one correct doctrine. I believe that’s why so many people today describe themselves as spiritual versus religious. Many people in the translesbigay community have experienced religious doctrine used

against them as a weapon. When religious communities focus more on human rules than human compassion, people tend to leave those communities and stay away from churches all together. Sometimes identifying as gender fluid or transgender, or having a sexual orientation outside of the “heterosexual” box means that we find ourselves in conflicts with others even when we don’t want to be. Sometimes we’re in conflict with church leaders, family members, co-workers, friends, and so on. And often we’re in conflict because we don’t want to be described as a “lifestyle choice” and we don’t want to be used as a religious or political pawn. In some situations of conflict in our lives, we can claim our authentic truth as translesbigay people and let the consequences be whatever they are. But not all conflict in our lives revolve around gender expression or sexual orientation, and sometimes we struggle with figuring out how to act in the midst of the conflicts around us.

Many years ago in San Diego, I took a course on conflict resolution.

This course taught that the first step in getting two sides to move towards

a resolution was that both sides feel fairly and adequately heard. Now this is important, because often people can come away from a conversation, and neither side feels as if what was most important to them was heard by the other. If one side is still trying to make their case, and not fully listening to the other side and absorbing what they are saying, then there will be a stalemate and the conflict will not be successfully resolved.

In order for us to find the best way forward out of conflict, sometimes we are called to compromise. I know that for each of us there are some issues we feel strongly about that we do not believe we can compromise on. When people are being hurt, we have a moral prerogative to speak out against what is being done that causes other people pain. However, when our views are not the same as others and what is hurt most is our egos, then it might be time to ask ourselves, “Is there a middle way forward that honors more than one truth?” Or, “Is there a solution that is completely outside the box altogether, one where each person’s truth can be respected and valued?”

Somewhere, somehow, there is common ground that unites us. We don’t always see what it is. And sometimes we have to really search for it.

But if we can find it, if we can seek what is important to all of us, then we can discover what we can achieve together.

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross said, “The world cannot be discovered by a journey of miles…only by a spiritual journey…by which we arrive at the ground at our feet, and learn to be at home.

The ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is unconditional love, which includes not only others but ourselves as well.”

Unconditional love moves us toward resolving conflict. And resolving that conflict doesn’t mean accepting injustice or inequality, nor does it mean allowing others to bully or harm us.

What it does mean is that we keep seeking a way forward in order to solve the problems in our communities and our country looking for the places where we can meet and work together for positive change.

40 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · Official Southern Decadence Guide · www.SouthernDecadence.com

One night only, Chris Harder is Porn To Be A Star

Rodney Thoulion rthoulion@gmail.com He’s handsome. He’s furry. He’s chiseled. He’s sexy. And he’s Porn To Be A Star!

The clever play on words is the one-man show by porn star turned stage actor Chris Harder. Harder’s show will be appearing for one night only during Southern Decadence at the Allways Lounge on Monday, September 3 at 10 pm.

A native of North Dakota and a 10-1/2 year resident of Queens, New York, Harder was a popular, exclusive star on Cocky Boys from 2014-2017.

These days Harder has been touring for about a year with his show that is directed by David Drake, the award-winning playwright of The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me. It has been a twoyear work-in-progress.

A self-proclaimed “goofball at heart,” Harder says the play is loosely

based on activities in his life and what it means to be a star. Harder transforms into a multitude of satirical characters, and even includes his mother in the show. Well, he at least plays her.

“I want people to have a sexy time and want people to laugh and to know that it is possible to do this sort of work and while it is sexy, you can have a sense of humor too,” Harder said.

Harder doesn’t like to give a lot away about the show because, of course, he wants there to be an element of surprise for the people who come and see it. Sex is pushed hard in the show with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. Harder of course will be scantily clad and, yes, there will be nudity and video clips of real porn.

Lamenting his days of being a porn star is not what this show is about, and Harder says he was ready to “dip his

toes in the adult sphere of writing and acting more. I was ready for the next chapter of my life with a little more clothes on.”

The life of a porn star isn’t as glamorous as one may think, Harder admits. He says porn stars “are always trying to prove to people that we are more than what they see on their porn tube.”

“The day in the life of a porn star starts with paper work,” Harder says laughingly. “How sexy is that? Sometimes your day starts at 3 am and [the shoot] goes late and all I want is a sandwich. There are some days you want to work and others you don’t.”

Harder says porn actors may work one or two days a month and have other jobs in gyms, as models, go-go dancers and the like. The industry is evolving and changing in Harder’s esti-

mation. He says so many are trying to get into the business but wages, travel stipends, and per diems are not what they used to be.

Porn To Be A Star has received rave reviews by theater critics and audience-goers alike. A Facebook review

by Der Sampo says, “I saw the awesome one man play in Helsinki. It was campy, yet profound, silly yet moving.

Very unique perspective into a world that is part of our reality but is still taboo.”

Tickets are $15 and $20 and may be purchased online at http://bit.ly/ 2J8AXFL.

Sulpizi and Frank Perez will also be in attendance to greet brunch-goers.

Enjoy a 3 Course Menu starring iconic Brennan’s dishes such as: Baked Apple, Eggs Hussarde, Creole Shrimp Salad or Vanilla Scented French Toast. Tickets are $95 inclusive and each table will receive a bottle of sparkling wine accompanied by fresh watermelon, peach and orange juices.

You can make reservations and advance payment, both required, by

contacting Ashley Hill, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, 504-934-3376 or email ahill@neworleans-food.com. Reservations available for tables of 4, 6 and 8.

Must purchase entire table at time of reservation.

Brennan’s, an iconic French Quarter dining establishment, has returned to its original glory with a commitment to honoring New Orleans’ history and ethnicity through its cuisine, architecture, and ambiance. Four-time James

Beard Foundation Award finalist Executive Chef Slade Rushing stands by the code of maintaining the traditional cuisine of the 300-year-old city, while giving the menu an innovative present-day approach. Brennan’s personable, attentive service underscores a unique and sophisticated dining experience that lives on in every visitor’s memory.

Oxford exists at a strange remove: a place of fleeting beauty, of secret liaisons under the cover of blackouts.

A friendship develops between David and Evert that will influence their lives for decades to come.

Over the course of three generations, the novel delves into the intimate relationships of a group of friends brought together by art, literature, and love. We witness shifts in taste and morality through a series of episodes: a Sparsholt holiday in Cornwall; eccentric gatherings at the Dax family home; the adventures of David’s son Johnny, a painter in 1970s London. This novel

of fathers and sons, of family and legacy, explores the social and sexual revolutions of the past century, even as it takes us up to our current age.

For those familiar with Hollinghurst’s earlier work (he has written six novels since 1988), The Sparsholt Affair will not disappoint in that it, like his other novels, embodies the gradual development of not only the times but also the author’s own life. Unlike many novelists, Hollinghurst has not written the same novel over and over again.

This novel is about a lot of things— father and son dynamics, a sex scandal, the evolution of social mores,

friendship—but mostly, it’s about the passage of time and perspective.

Dense. Probing. Introspective.

Alan Hollinghurst is the author of the novels The Stranger’s Child, The Swimming-Pool Library, The Folding Star, The Spell, and The Line of Beauty, which won the Man Booker Prize and was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award. He has received the Somerset Maugham Award, the E. M. Forster Award of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, and the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for Fiction.

Rodney Thoulion is Director of Development for CrescentCare and a freelance writer for Ambush Magazine. Got a story idea, email him at rthoulion@ gmail.com

Coca Mesa to Headline Southern Decadence Drag Brunch at Brennan’s

Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com Brennan’s Restaurant is delighted to host the 1st annual Southern Decadence Drag Brunch featuring Coca Mesa & DJ Tim Pflueger on Saturday, September 1st, with two seatings at 9:30 am and 12:30 pm.

In addition to starring Coca Mesa, other performers include Connie Hung, Aariyah Sinclaire and Gia GiaVanni, as well as male dancers Dylon Hoffpauir and T. J. Michael. Current Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Adikus

Book Review: The Sparsholt Affair by Alan Hollinghurst

Frank Perez frankearlperez@gmail.com The Sparsholt Affair by Alan Hollinghurst. 2018. Knopf. 432 pages. $28.95.

Hollinghurst’s latest novel is the sweeping narrative of a complex family that spans seven decades.

In 1940, David Sparsholt arrives at Oxford to study engineering, though his sights are set on joining the Royal Air Force. Handsome, athletic, charismatic, he is unaware of his powerful effect on others—especially on Evert Dax, the lonely and romantic son of a celebrated novelist who is destined to become a writer himself. With the world at war, and the Blitz raging in London,

www.GayMardiGras.com · www.GayEasterParade.com · August 14 - 27, 2018 · The Official Gay Magazine of the Gulf South: www.AmbushMag.com · 41

A Community within Communities: Be Nice or Leave!

The Very Rev. Bill Terry+ fr.bill@stannanola.org

New Orleans Advocates for GLBT Elders (NOAGE) hosts social events for LGBT older adults and their allies of all ages. We also train healthcare and other service providers in LGBT cultural competency. To schedule a free training, please contact us at info@noagenola.org or (504)517-2345.

FREE Events:

Summer Ice Cream Social with the MCC Saturday, August 18, 3:00-5:00 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall 5401 S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans

NOAGE Potluck Tuesday, August 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Community Church Unitarian Universalist 6690 Fleur de Lis Dr., New Orleans, LA

NOAGE Movie Night: ‘The Ritz’ (Free, but RSVP is required) Wednesday, August 29, 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Chalmette Movies 8700 W. Judge Perez Dr., New Orleans, LA

To RSVP to any of these events, visit noagenola.org/calendar.

www.noagenola.org (504)517-2345 info@noagenola.org

Heat, rain, and summer sun. August is the time of year when we gather in cool dens that provide comfort, dens all about. Uptown dens and downtown dens and all manner of places, usually dark, with TV screens and music. Being August, we seek the comfort of our kith and kin. A little later in the evening we may wander outside a bit. A cooling breeze might course down the street fueled by a thunderhead across the river. A good time to take the pooch out for a stroll. August in New Orleans.

I drive down the backroads of the 7th Ward in the evenings and folks are starting to move a bit. Stoop sitters perch watching what goes by. Trendy millennials race by with tight jeans pumping bicycles (usually going down a one way street the wrong way). We come out and observe the world around us. I suspect that when we do, we critique that world even if the world at that given moment is saddled up to the bar at the Phoenix or Mag’s or Cutters or The Golden Lantern. Perhaps a jaunt down to Oz, Lafitte’s, or The Pub is the place to be. I don’t know Uptown too well anymore; though it is my adolescent home, I just am not sure what goes on up there. But I am sure that there are dens to be found.

I like the idea of Pop-Up kitchens that I am seeing along St. Bernard Avenue; many of those eateries are manned by talented young chefs. I like seeing the chairs come out with older folks that pretty much command their blocks along that same avenue. It means community.

It is often a joy to walk into one of our regular watering holes and be greeted by folks. That is always a pleasure. Equally, when someone enters a bar whom the “locals” don’t know, they would do well to greet such folks with a smile or a nod. I have walked into a place and there is a distance with some of the regulars, sort of like “you don’t belong here” or “you’re not from this part of town are ya boy?” That is the opposite of a friendly smile and a good bartender. I write a lot about being marginalized and the insider vs. outsider problems that we have as a larger society. So, when that next stranger, assuming they are not an ax murder or skinhead walks in, maybe smile or nod.

That would be nice.

Similarly, when I walk into new territory I try to get the drift of the place and behave. Now, the fact that I don’t drink helps a lot. I don’t walk in with a lot of attitude. Just me and usually my clerical collar on which usually invites some reaction. In some spots it’s looked upon with disdain. I get that and that is why I wear it. Simply to say “church, at least our church, doesn’t

judge and we try to walk the walk of charity.” I can only do that by simply being me and not some pretentious twit. So, how we engage people either as strangers in a new land (maybe going to an uptown bar) or simply as travelers along the way, and how we respond with body language and facial expression can make a difference. So, be nice.

Does anyone know who Mary McAleese is? She was president of Ireland. Yes they have a President although without the clout of our own clown. Last year, she marched in PRIDE in Dublin alongside her son and his husband. She strikes me as pretty nice but also a handful. She called the Roman Church, which for so long held sway in Ireland, “Empire of misogyny.”

I think I like her.

As a preamble to the Pope’s upcoming visit to Ireland, she said that she hoped the Pope would be free of “homophobic messages.” She characterized the Church’s teaching on homosexuality as “evil.” Pretty outspoken and yet she welcomed the Pope’s visit.

I suppose the point is that we can hold true to our beliefs and can admit some folks to our circle and keep others a bit distant. Yet, a smile to a stranger walking into our den is a very good thing indeed. My guess is that Mary would offer Francis a smile. Maybe even move a barstool down to let him sit (his outfit is, after all, to die for).

Maybe even buy him a pint. Yet, she doesn’t have to cave. Lord knows what would ensue with jello shots.

Recently, when Vicki and I dined at Mona Lisa, a spot we love, we had the pleasure of seeing many visitors to our city. You can spot them a mile away even if they don’t sport a fanny pack.

I watched a local regale a visitor with some tidbits of local lore and guidance.

The visitors stood with rapt attention.

As the conversation ended and each went their way, we walked by the visitors. They almost glowed and with a newfound, or rediscovered, civility, nodded at us and said simply, “Good evening” with a giant smile. That attention that the local showed is what I’m talking about.

We are a spiritually gregarious folk in New Orleans. I say spiritually because, of course, we like to talk about ourselves. But, equally we want people to have some fun, to lighten up a bit, to enjoy us and we them. Smile when you are on that barstool at the stranger in your midst. Like Dr. Bob said, “Be nice or leave.” Well, be nice, period. Believe it or not, it’s a spiritual thing.

Enjoy your August.

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