Nora Castleton

What is something about you people assume is true that isn’t? I’ve won several crowns, pageants and titles.

Who/What inspired you to ride the Bus Tour for the first time? The riders who created the bus were wonderful people and great friends.
What has been your favorite Bus Tour Theme? 1986 – Bag Ladies Pan American Tour

Share your favorite memory of the Bus Tour? When the articulated bus jack-knifed in the alley and we wedged against the dumpster. Tonya Campisi was on the CB radio with the city bus dispatch yelling “Mayday! Mayday!”

Who is your favorite Bag Ladies Sister and why? Crystal Flash. I knew we would go places when she passed out drunk in the clothes basket in my dorm closet in 1974.

Why did you want to be Bag Ladies Bus Tour Queen? I did not know a Queen was chosen every year. I did not know I could be Queen. On the bus everyone was calling everyone “queen,” so it was a total surprise.

What does “Once a Queen, always a Queen,” mean to you? In regard to the Bag Ladies, I believe it means commitment, loyalty and responsibility. I have a sense of duty to see this through.
What is your biggest accomplishment as Bag Ladies Queen or as a Former? Individually, I’m most proud of making the bus party into a fundraiser. We instituted pledge cards in 1986 and the bus has generated lots of money.

For what would you most like to be remembered? From Nora there is no greater love than to receive a catty remark or hateful comment. If you hear me offer multiple, demeaning words, please remember I’m working with slow learners.

When a cure and a vaccine for HIV are discovered and HIV no longer exists, what will the Bag Ladies do next? I’m sure this group will have a prominent place in the history books of HIV & AIDS. And for so many, the Bag Ladies’ work will forever live on in the warm hearts of those who have been inspired or helped.