My bartender of the month is a beloved local figure, and I can think of no one more deserving to be highlighted during Pride month than Ashlee Logan from the Corner Pocket. Originally hailing from Starkville, MS, Ashlee relocated to New Orleans the day after her high school graduation on May 21, 1988. This is quite surprising, as she appears to be no older than 35. After … [Read more...] about Bartender of the Month – June 2025
Profiles & Spotlights
Bartender Spotlight – May 2025
In my view, bartenders have always been akin to performers, with the bar serving as their stage. Each night, they entertain an audience of both newcomers and loyal patrons. Similar to a theatrical production, they may receive enthusiastic applause that leads to repeat visits or face criticism. The next bartender I wish to highlight is a skilled and … [Read more...] about Bartender Spotlight – May 2025
Bartender Spotlight – April 2025
Bartenders are among the most pleasant individuals I have encountered. They interact with a diverse range of personalities, making a friendly demeanor and a positive outlook essential. This month, I would like to highlight one of the most amiable bartenders I know. In addition to his engaging personality, he is professional, humorous, and attractive. I am referring to Joshua … [Read more...] about Bartender Spotlight – April 2025
Kaleidoscope Theatre Company: An Interview with Founder Aaron Brewer
New Orleans has a new queer theater company. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing the company’s founder, Aaron Brewer. FP: What prompted you to found Kaleidoscope Theatre Company? AB: I’ve been performing consistently in the theater for over 20 years, and I have never played an overtly queer character in my career. In my everyday life—though I identify as … [Read more...] about Kaleidoscope Theatre Company: An Interview with Founder Aaron Brewer
Bartender Spotlight
Sometimes you meet a bartender who just immediately endears himself to you. My bartender spotlight this month is one of those people. I am talking about the wonderful Nick Renuoff at the Phoenix Bar, located at 941 Elysian Fields Avenue. Maybe it is his twisted sense of humor, his sharp wit, his ability to make a strong drink or his devilish smile. I am not sure what … [Read more...] about Bartender Spotlight
Bartender Spotlight
I returned to Gulfport for another fabulous event at SIPPS and, behold, I found another Bartender of the Month there–they do know how to pick wonderful staff! My bartender spotlight to start of 2025 is Kyle Simmons who is a Gulfport native. He has worked at SIPPS for seven years making the move from a totally different industry beforehand where he worked as … [Read more...] about Bartender Spotlight
Announcing King Cake Queen XXX—Athena Jewelle, The Phoenix Queen
Ambush Magazine is pleased to announce that Athena Jewelle will reign as King Cake Queen XXX over the Krewe of Queenateenas. Jewelle will reign as The Phoenix Queen. Jewelle was truly shocked when she was informed of the decision. “I never thought I would ever be a King Cake Queen,” she said later. The remark is characteristic of her. Normally introverted and shy, … [Read more...] about Announcing King Cake Queen XXX—Athena Jewelle, The Phoenix Queen
Bartender of the Month – November 2024
I have always felt that the LGBTQ+ community in New Orleans is not limited geographically to our state but also Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and some parts in Texas. We have weathered many storms in our area both figuratively (close-minded bigotry) and literally (hurricanes). So I consider all the bars along the Gulf Coast (and our entire state) as part of the NOLA … [Read more...] about Bartender of the Month – November 2024
Bartender of the Month – October 2024
Bartenders are some of the most artistic people in the city. I believe that being an artist lends itself to being a good bartender. That is why so many actors or singers start out as bartenders. Most good bartenders have flair and charisma. That is definitely true of my bartender for the month of October - Seth … [Read more...] about Bartender of the Month – October 2024
Bartender of the Month – September 2024
The best thing for a case of the nerves is a case of vodka. And this is why bartenders are so important in our culture and especially in the New Orleans culture. My Bartender of the Month for September can be found at the Bourbon Pub & Parade. Ky Harper (they/them) is originally from Plano, Texas, but has now lived in New Orleans … [Read more...] about Bartender of the Month – September 2024
