Don Stratton, a founding member of the Krewe of Armeinius, passed away on August 30, 2021 at his home in New Orleans, one day before his 77th birthday. He was born on August 31, 1944 in New Orleans to Fred and Mae Stratton, who predeceased him. A graduate of John McDonogh High School on Esplanade Avenue, Stratton began his career working for Kemper Insurance. For over 50 … [Read more...] about Don Stratton (1944-2021)
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The Official Dish on Southern Decadence 2021
Dear Ambush Nation, Southern Decadence is less than 2 weeks away! And if you’re reading all the posts on Facebook it can be somewhat confusing as to what Southern Decadence will look like in 2021. Is there a parade? What about Grand Marshals and a theme? Are the bars having events? What about private parties? Has the City of New Orleans placed any COVID-19 restrictions … [Read more...] about The Official Dish on Southern Decadence 2021
The Fabulous French Market District
For over 300 years, the city of New Orleans has been a magical place where music, food, literature and art has flourished. Its storied history is a kaleidoscope of different nationalities and ethnicities that have come together to create a city that is one of the top destinations in the world. At the heart of this wondrous city is the French Quarter founded in 1718 by … [Read more...] about The Fabulous French Market District
Obituary: Janet Ann Garner
Janet Ann Garner, 60, departed this life on August 13, 2021. A native of Kenner, LA and resident of Portland, TN. She is preceded in death by James L. Garner (father), Alice M. Montblanc Garner (mother), Gregory J. Garner (brother). Left to cherish her memory from her previous marriage to Ronald Caldarera are Melissa Caldarera Mack (daughter), Chauncey (son in law), … [Read more...] about Obituary: Janet Ann Garner
Book Review: Johnny White’s Sports Bar: The Tiny Joint that Never Closed—Until It Did
Johnny White’s Sports Bar: The Tiny Joint that Never Closed—Until It Did. Marita Woywod Crandle. The History Press, 2019. 144 pages. For 23 years, Johnny White’s Sports Bar reigned as Bourbon Street’s premiere dive bar for locals. Located at the corner of Orleans and Bourbon, the small bar was an island for Quarter Rats in the midst of an unceasing flow of tourists. It was … [Read more...] about Book Review: Johnny White’s Sports Bar: The Tiny Joint that Never Closed—Until It Did
Bartender Spotlight: August 2021
Can you believe we are already in August? It’s crazy! Southern Decadence is next month and then we roll right into the holidays. Time flies when you take a year off for a global pandemic. As we start to make our way back out, if the unvaccinated don’t shut us down, to enjoy cocktails again, my bartender for the month of August is the fabulous Lawrence Edward at Betty’s Bar … [Read more...] about Bartender Spotlight: August 2021
“For the Love of Mardi Gras, Get Vaccinated!”
Have you browsed through some of the Southern Decadence groups on social media lately? If you didn’t know any better, you might get the idea that the COVID-19 pandemic is completely behind us. Sure, there are occasional posts about masks, but on the whole, one gets the impression that the hordes of Southern Decadence devotees who did not come last year are … [Read more...] about “For the Love of Mardi Gras, Get Vaccinated!”
Isn’t It Ironic?
Take it from me, the chances of a fully vaccinated person becoming infected with the COVID-19 virus are extremely low – but not zero. Regular Ambush readers may remember that I detailed my vaccination experience here, in this very column. I blasted at the anti-vax movement, dismissing its supporters with science and touting the benefits of vaccination. I strongly … [Read more...] about Isn’t It Ironic?
Under the Gaydar (August 2021 Events Calendar)
Our city heals differently than other places. We celebrate life through music, food and laughter. Soon we will usher in the Fall season with Southern Decadence and a host of other festivals, so clutch those pearls and let’s go! It is with much happiness that we are bringing back the calendar of events, so if you want something listed, please email … [Read more...] about Under the Gaydar (August 2021 Events Calendar)
Book of the Month: How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived
When Leslie Jordan’s new book was released, I quickly snapped it up and finished reading it within a week. How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived is a lovely collection of stories, memories and advice from a man whose life has recently been catapulted more into the spotlight through his Instagram fame during the pandemic. Jordan has actually … [Read more...] about Book of the Month: How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived
