King Cake Queen XXII Aubrey Synclaire Welcomes All to Gay Mardi Gras with Official Proclamation

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King Cake Queen XXII Aubrey Synclaire Welcomes All to Gay Mardi Gras with Official Proclamation "Her Imperial Majesty sends greetings and announces with pleasure her invitation for all to gather from

between Oz and Bourbon Pub Parade, and Cafe Lafitte in Exile and Clover Grill.

1 King Cake Queen XXII Aubrey Synclaire Welcomes All to Gay Mardi Gras with Official Proclamation "Her Imperial Majesty sends greetings and announces with pleasure her invitation for all to gather from near and far and join in the many celebrations under the Rainbow Banner of the 67th Gay Mardi Gras leading up to the 29th Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss February 9, 2pm, at the Ambush Palace, 828 Bourbon Street." - by Queen of the Opera: Act II Aubrey Synclaire Celebrating the 67th Gay Mardi Gras, the 29th Annual Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss takes place from the world famous balcony at Ambush Mansion located between Oz and Bourbon Pub Parade, and Cafe Lafitte in Exile and Clover Grill. The official photographer of the King Cake Queens, Larry Graham, has produced three portraits this year reflecting the true meaning of Mardi Gras: PURPLE representing Justice, GREEN Faith, and GOLD Power. The 22nd King Cake Queen of Gay Mardi Gras is the first in history to continue her reign into a second year returning as Queen of the Opera: Act II. Co-Captains of the Krewe of Queenateenas added this interesting twist to this short Carnival season due to private family obligations which require the co-captains to remain out of town for much of the season. Only 50 guests are invited to the Bead Toss each year, 10 from the reigning queen, and 40 from the co-captains. The King Cake Queen is chosen from those revelers participating. The individual exhibiting the most enthusiasm and expertise in bead toss techniques is chosen to reign as King Cake Queen the following year. The King Cake Queen Royalty Club includes: KCQ II & KCQ Emeritus: Jewel of the Nile, Jay A. Loomis/1995, KCQ III: The Rainbow Queen, the late Smurf Murphy/1996, KCQ IV: Pearl of the Sea, Reba Douglas/1997, KCQ V: The She Devil, Elizabeth Simms/1998, KCQ VI: The Czarina, the late Christine Cheridon/1999, KCQ VII: Sex Goddess, Stephanie Williams/2000, KCQ VIII: The Peacock Queen, Phyllis Denmark/2001, KCQ IX: The Freedom Queen, Lisa Beaumann/2002, KCQ X: The Voodoo Queen, Teryl- Lynn Foxx/2003, KCQ XII: The Amazon Queen, Savanna DeLorean/2005, KCQ XIII: The Diamond Queen, Raven Kennedy/2006, KCQ XIV: The Fantasy Queen, Princesse Stephaney/2007, KCQ XV: The Fleur de Lis Queen, Marsha Naquin-Delain/2008, KCQ XVI: The Grandee Queen, Tami Tarmac/2009, KCQ XVII: The Parisian Queen, Opal Masters/2010, KCQ XVIII: The Chrysthemum Queen Rona Conners/2011, KCQ XIX: The Samba Queen, Nicole DuBois/2012, KCQ XX: The Platinum Queen, Dusty Debris/2013, KCQ XXI: The Borghese Queen, Barbara Ella/2014, and KCQ XXII: Queen of the Opera, Aubrey Synclaire/2015. For additional information, visit celebrazzi Mystic Krewe of Satyricon's 14th Bal Masque The introduction of Queen and King Satyricon XIV Carl Mack and Darric Cavalier brought to a climax the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon s 14th Bal Masque "Le Bal des Beaux Arts: A Night at the Museum," The queen portrayed Erte's Symphony in Black. Hosted by mega star Varla Jean Merman, the ball was held at Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center in Chalmette. For additional information, visit (Photo by Hubert S Monkeys) Mega star Varla Jean Merman host Mystic Krewe of Satyricon's 14th Bal Masque. (Photo by Tony Leggio) 6 The Official Mag : AmbushMag.com Feb. 2-15, 2016 Official ficial Mardi di Gras Guide GayMardiGras.com

2 SouthernDecadence.com Feb. 2-15, 2016 Facebook.com/AmbushMag The Official Mag : AmbushMag.com 7

a community within communities by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna s Episcopal Church, New Orleans Email: fr.bill@stannanola.

It s unique, enchanting, dirty, festive, drunken, family friendly, girl friendly, gay friendly, dangerous, the greatest free show on earth and a dozen other observations and slogans.

I like people watching on the fringes much more than the standard parades. I was raised here and hit puberty here so the parades lack something for me now; heh I m almost 65.

3 a community within communities by The Rev. Bill Terry, Rector St. Anna s Episcopal Church, New Orleans fr.bill@stannanola.org Mardi Gras then Lent What can possibly be said about Mardi Gras that hasn t been said by so many others for so long? It s unique, enchanting, dirty, festive, drunken, family friendly, girl friendly, gay friendly, dangerous, the greatest free show on earth and a dozen other observations and slogans. Briefly, this is what I like about Mardi Gras. I like to enter the Quarter from Esplanade Avenue. Fewer crazies and much more fun when I hit Bourbon and St. Ann. I like people watching on the fringes much more than the standard parades. I was raised here and hit puberty here so the parades lack something for me now; heh I m almost 65. What I also enjoy but don t see much are the wonderful marching clubs that wander about with no destination in mind. When we lived in the Bywater there was also a marching group that would wander by just making wonderful music and having a blast. I like the little stuff. I like being asked to do the Invocation at Gay Balls. There is just something about me, a traditionalist by some measure, a main line denomination offering prayer just before the tableau begins that is fun and really an honor. I love the running commentaries during spotlight features these balls. Yes, like everyone else I am critiquing the costumes and remain amazed at the creativity and beauty of it all. Gay balls are the best ever as far as I am concerned. I would far rather go to Amon-Ra than Bacchus or other of the big show krewes. I suppose that is why I like Krewe du Vieux for my parade going pleasure. Nothing like hanging out at the Friendly with friends and watching the bawdy spectacle unfold. It is a wonderful day to enjoy so many things or even just to relax with a good book or maybe a movie. Then my life takes a dramatic change. I hope that yours will as well. Once the party is over and once you ve had your Tylenol or Aspirin the next day it is time to think about what has past and what is present. In New Orleans that means getting my ashes. The season of Lent begins with these words, From dust ye came to dust ye Top 10 Tips & Tricks for Gay Mardi Gras If you ve never been to Mardi Gras, you have a lot to learn! What follows is some advice gathered from locals that will help you get the most out of your carnival experience. 1 - The Weather: Weather in New Orleans is unpredictable. Bring clothes for every possibility. 2 - Walking The Streets Of New Orleans: During Mardi Gras, cars are not allowed on the streets of the French Quarter. So, plan on doing a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must for the serious Mardi Gras reveler. the "official" dish...from 4 The main streets like Bourbon are usually shoulder to shoulder. For quick escapes and in order to move about the French Quarter during Carnival use side streets. However, always walk where it is well lit and there are a lot of people. [continued on 10] mile-ish fun run in just their undies to raise awareness and fund the research of neurofibromatosis (NF) through Children s Tumor Foundation. This year, Cupid s Undie Run, the world s largest organized undie run sponsored by Sock It To Me, will take place in 36 cities across the United States. To-date, this must-do Valentine s Day event has raised nearly $8 million for CTF. The hundreds of volunteers behind this 501(c)3 non-profit are further committed to the fight against NF after the recent passing of Drew Leathers the younger brother of Chad Leather, co-founder of Cupid s Undie Run, and inspiration behind the event. Cupid s is a party + 1 mile fun run at your own pace + more party. "We encourage undies, but we get that it s not for everyone so just come out and have fun and raise some money for NF research!" You can start a team for your friends, join a team, or run solo. For each friend you sign up, we give you $25 towards incentives and they ll get 25% off their registration fee. It all begins at Masquerade Night Club (inside Harrah s New Orleans) with: Noon, Feb. 20 Doors open & the party starts! 1pm Awards ceremony 2pm UNDIE RUN 3:30pm Earned open bar closes 4pm Bag check closes, Cupid s officially ends For run registration forms and information, visit city/new-orleans/. For information on Children's Tumor Foundation, visit 8 The Official Mag : AmbushMag.com Feb. 2-15, 2016 Official ficial Mardi di Gras Guide GayMardiGras.com shall return. The ashes are smeared on the forehead as a sign and symbol of what we believe. Of course it s New Orleans and such is almost a cultural custom as much or more so than a religious ritual. A couple of years ago we processed through the tough parts of the 7 th Ward just a few of us and a cross in vestments. I remember being chased down by a couple of working girls, Hey Pastor can I get me some ashes? Of course they can. We did a Eucharist with ashes under the I- 10 over pass on N. Claiborne. A huddle mass we were of maybe ten folks, gotta get me some ashes. I suppose for some those ashes are like a talisman warding off some unseen danger. Ash Wednesday is the start of Lent. Lent is a period of 40 days and 40 nights (excluding Sundays) in preparation for Easter. It is generally recognized in both Western and Eastern Christianity and dates back to the very earliest days of Christian history. But what is it all about? How can it possibly do any good at all? How might you access this season to make it something meaningful? First, consider the opening words to Lent, From dust ye came to dust ye shall return. In a more 21 st century way we might say that this simple sentence says that: a. We are all a part of nature. Our very being is made up of star dust, our person is part of the cosmic enterprise. We are composed of elements and our DNA is an imprint of nature itself, From dust ye came b. So, when our course is run, likewise, we are recycled it is our natural pattern to return in forms of elements to that which created our substance. c. The overall essence is this, you only have one life to live, you only have so much time. Time, believe me, is sacred. It is that measure of our span and what we will do with it. So, Lent is set aside for us to regroup, consider who and what we are, and perhaps more what we want to be and how we will cherish this sacred gift that we have. If things are all screwed up it is a time to un-screw them. If you think life is just not a joyful experience, maybe you are right, but maybe you can find some light to hang your hat on. Do we really take time to just take a fearless spiritual inventory of ourselves? Some don t most should. If you have a life that is basically pretty satisfactory do you cherish it and not take it for granted. Lent is a time to give thanks. So, if you get your ashes just be mindful that when the words are spoken it is not a condemnation nor is it a threat. The words and symbol are a reminder of how connected we are to one another and all creation and that we have a gift and that is the sacrament of time. How will you use it? Nothing more and certainly nothing less.

4 SouthernDecadence.com Feb. 2-15, 2016 Facebook.com/AmbushMag The Official Mag : AmbushMag.com 9

the real cheese by Felicia Phillips Email: fphillips1011@gmail.com Photo by Hubert S Monkeys 10 tips & tricks...from 8 New Orleans is a city of neighborhoods.

5 the real cheese by Felicia Phillips Photo by Hubert S Monkeys 10 tips & tricks...from 8 New Orleans is a city of neighborhoods. Like all large cities, the Big Easy does have some trouble spots. Always walk with others, never alone if possible. Don t wander about the city. In New Orleans the neighborhoods change, literally, when you cross a street. Always use a map on your cell phone. The French Quarter can be confusing. Safe streets are Decatur, Royal, Bourbon up to the 800 block on any day. Use good judgement. Generally, stay on streets that are well travelled. If a street looks deserted, its probably not safe to walk. Stay with the crowd. If you re drinking, don t go stumbling about the French Quarter. Locals know that the people who encounter trouble are usually the ones who have been drinking. Unfortunately, Mardi Gras does attract some people who are out for more than a good time. When you walk the streets, don t bring your wallet. Take the cash you need and some sort of identification and put them in a pocket that no-one can slip their hand into. Don t wear expensive jewelry. Basically, don t take anything with you that you would have a hard time replacing if it gets lost. 3 - Parking: Parking is difficult and expensive during Mardi Gras. If you can manage without a car, you ll be better off. If you bring your car to Mardi Carnival Time Since catching up with pre Christmas goings on in my last column, I can assure you all there have been a multitude of events I attended that have been more than noteworthy with a little crazy and maybe even a few scandals thrown in. Among them the first annual Sally- Fly Cheesy Early New Year's Eve Bash at GrandPre s. This was done for those well aged and seasoned members of our community (senagers - senior teenagers), complete with party favors, a plethora of cheese and cheesy dishes, and of course, a champagne toast at the 6pm countdown! Not only were we gay New Orleanians able to toast at the same time as our brothers and sisters in gay Paris, (it was midnight there!) but we were able to be at home, bengayed up and in bed by 10pm, our time! I have no doubt this will become a tradition for generations to come! I must mention though that some of the most aged and well seasoned of us all, including myself some how still managed to bring in the New Year into the wee hours at The Corner Pocket, enjoying the Ballet they have there, and investing into the younger generations futures! There was also the evening at The Golden Lantern that saw all 5 (yes, Mary there were 5, get over it) SDGMs 2015, present their record breaking donation to all their chosen charities. Nearly 40k after expenses! I am happy to report there were no food nor fist fights, no shoes, sashes, pins nor crowns thrown. Just a great night had by all, making all the trials and tribulations of being involved in all it takes to now pull off a Southern Decadence celebration well worth it. There have been other nights that will forever be in my memories, but I must say out of them all leading up to Carnival, that we are now eyeballs deep into, was my fellow columnist Frank Perez s much anticipated sec- [continued on 12] Gras, carefully follow this advice: 1) Parade Route Parking Parking along a parade route is prohibited 2 hours before and 2 hours after a parade. EXAMPLE: If a parade is scheduled to roll at 6pm, parking anywhere along the route is prohibited at 4pm. 2) Neutral ground Parking The neutral ground is what New Orleanians call a median. You know, that strip of grass in the middle of a road. It is always illegal to park on the neutral ground. During Mardi Gras, you ll see a lot of people doing it. It seems legal. It s not. Believe me, they ll tow as many of those cars as they can as quickly as they can. The tow companies make a lot of money during Carnival. 3) Temporary Signs Never believe the street signs during Carnival. Be on the lookout for cardboard signs posted inconspicuously throughout the city. Hunt for and read all the signs in any area you park. If in doubt, don t risk it. 4) The French Quarter On-Street parking within the French Quarter and vehicle access is restricted in the areas bounded by Iberville, Decatur, Dumaine, and Rampart. Towing is strictly enforced. If you are staying in a hotel in the French Quarter, ask the hotel for a PASS. Usually, you can get a pass that will allow you back and forth to the hotel garage. If your car is impounded it will cost you about $200 bucks plus whatever else the city decides to tack on. Your car can be retrieved from the City Auto Pound, located in a dangerous area of the city, 400 N. Claiborne Avenue. This will spoil a good time. 4 - Cabs or Uber: Cabs will be difficult to get during Carnival. In addition, many Cab companies enforce a special event rate. This means that you ll be paying a premium for a taxi and, sadly, many cabbies take advantage of people during Carnival. The best bet is Uber for quick and efficient service, and you know exactly what you will pay before you're off to your destination. 5 - Liquor Laws: People are allowed to drink on the streets in New Orleans. However, you must use a geaux cup. (A go cup is a plastic cup.) Glass and cans are not allowed on the streets for safety reasons. Mardi Gras is a long holiday and bars in New Orleans are open 24 hours a day. Pace yourself. If you are going to drink during Mardi Gras, take it easy and slow. Most important, it s easy to get caught up in all the excitement and forget to eat. If you want to make it through Mardi Gras, solid food is a necessity. Of course, New Orleans is world famous for its food and is part of a complete New Orleans experience. 6 - Toilets: Clean bathrooms are a difficult thing to find during Mardi Gras. Every business closes their facilities to everyone but paying customers. If your hotel is far from the action, take care of the more important business before you hit the streets. If you need to, plan on buying lunch or dinner and using the restaurant s bathroom before you pay the check! There are port a lets scattered throughout the city. However, they have long lines and can be quite an experience. No matter how bad you have to go, do not urinate in the streets. This is a fine way to end up in central lock up and people who are arrested during carnival sit in jail until the courts re-open after Fat Tuesday. Besides, it s not polite. Listen to your body. Get in line before you really have to go. By the time you're crossing your legs, you might be at the front of the line. 7 - Catching The Parades: Parades roll all over the state of Louisiana. On Mardi Gras day parades roll from early in the morning until late in the evening. There is so much going on during Carnival that it can be a difficult deciding what to do and see. What most people do is spend the Sunday before Mardi Gras at the parades. Several parades roll in New Orleans on Sunday and most people camp out and make a day of it. Throw Me Something Mister...! Unlike parades in other cities, Mardi Gras parades require people to become participants. In fact, the crowd during Mardi Gras is as much a part of the action as the floats and bands. 10 The Official Mag : AmbushMag.com Feb. 2-15, 2016 Official ficial Mardi di Gras Guide GayMardiGras.com Maskers on floats toss people in the crowd throws. Throws are bead necklaces, doubloons, plastic cups, panties and lots of other stuff that are thrown to the crowd. People do all kinds of things to catch things. Some people create elaborate nets with targets on a pole, other people show body parts. It s all very entertaining. Anything goes when it comes to catching stuff. One very important word of caution, NEVER pick up a throw off the street with your hands! If you do, your hand is going to get stomped on. If a throw ends up on the street, quickly put your foot over it and when the crowd settles down, pick it up. Barricades (temporary fences) are there for your protection. It can be tempting to run out to catch throws from a passing float. Floats weigh a whole lot and people have been seriously hurt because they just had to have that plastic charm. Stay behind the barricades. Often, two or more people will catch the same throw. This is a give and take situation and requires a little carnival etiquette. Basically, the first person to catch a throw should be allowed to keep it. However, you ll find some rude people out there and its best to let something go than make an issue out of it. Besides, there s plenty for everyone. 8 - What You Can Get Away With: During Mardi Gras you re bound to get an eye full. Public nudity and public sex is not allowed and the obscenity laws are still on the books. You need to use your better judgement on this stuff. It is possible to get into trouble by showing too much when you bargain for beads, and again, people who are arrested, sit in jail until the courts re-open after Mardi Gras, which will cost you much more than $ I Can Tell Youse Where You Got Dem Shoes!!! Beggers, panhandlers and con artists of all persuasion will be looking to scam the unwary and especially drunk visitor. If some con walks up to you and says I can tell you where you got dem shoes, you reply YEAH! On my feet on Bourbon Street! before he can con you out of a fiver or more. If you play ya gotta pay. If you want to have your boots polished, do it yourself. Never Take out your money (Remember- you left your wallet and other valuables in the room.) to pay for anything on the street. Of course, the PHOENIX bar has a really hot guy that will really put a shine on those boots. And, there might be a few people there that will do it for free Play Safe: Mardi Gras is a big party. People drink and are having a good time. It s easy to forget that there is a real world during Carnival. Many of the bars offer free condoms and there is no excuse. Don t allow the party to overwhelm your better judgement. We want you to come again. Visit for more information.

SouthernDecadence.COM Feb , 2014 Facebook.COM/AmbushMag The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM 11

SouthernDecadence.COM Feb , 2014 Facebook.COM/AmbushMag The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM 11 SouthernDecadence.COM Feb. 11-24, 2014 Facebook.COM/AmbushMag The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM 11 under the gaydar by Tony Leggio Email: ledgemgp@gmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM Book