Issuu

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~1 of 48

MAIN~2 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~3 of 48

the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain RipandMarsha.COM E-mail: info@ambushmag.com

Mary L. Lathouwers Chosen to Receive 21st Lifetime Achievement Award; GAA Board Announces Top 5 Finalist in 3 Categories

Performing Arts Award-Glitz/New Orleans, La Femme Rouge/Baton Rouge, Naked Boys Singing/New Orleans, New Orleans Gay Men's Chorus, To Do Productions-Marigny Theatre/New Orleans; Restaurant/Deli of the Year-Clover Grill/New Orleans, Mestizo's/Baton Rouge, Mona Lisa/New Orleans, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli/New Orleans, Tomatillo's/New Orleans; Dance Bar of the Year-Cowpokes/ New Orleans, Oz/New Orleans, Parade/ New Orleans, Sound Factory/Lafayette, Splash/Baton Rouge; Bartender of the Year-Aletha Bryant/ Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Stephen Murrell/Cowpokes, Jeff Palmquist/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Lance Pippin/Golden Lantern, Lance Young/Splash; DJ of the Year-Karen Baker/Splash, Johnny Love/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Tim Pflueger/Oz, Myke/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Richie Rich/Cowpokes, Leather Bar of the Year-Cowpokes/ New Orleans, JohnPaul's/New Orleans, Phoenix/New Orleans, Ramrod/Ft. Lauderdale, Rawhide 2010/New Orleans; GLBT Business of the Year-Alternatives, Hit Parade, Queen Fashions, Rab Dab, Wood Enterprises/all New Orleans; Leather Person of the Year-Mina Hernandez/New Orleans, George Hester/ New Orleans, Denny Summors/New Orleans, Solitaire/Baton Rouge, Gary Vandeventer/New Orleans; Transgender of the Year-Regina Adams/New Orleans, Mia Bonet/Baton Rouge, Dee Cooley/New Orleans, Jasmine SX/Baton Rouge, Marcy Marcell/New Orleans; Lesbian of the Year-Karen Baker/ Baton Rouge, Marty Curtin/New Orleans, Chansley Dykes/Baton Rouge, Mae Falgout/New Orleans, Mina Hernandez/ New Orleans; Gay Man of the Year-Richard Dykes/ Baton Rouge, Robert Gibson/New Orleans, Ken Grandpre/New Orleans, Toby Lefort/New Orleans, Cory Wise/Baton Rouge; and Entertainer of the Year-Elizabeth Bouvier/New Orleans, Electra City/New Orleans, Coca/New Orleans, Nicole Foxx/ Baton Rouge, Donnie Jay/New Orleans. The awards thanks those in the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender community who are many times not recognized for the outstanding services and efforts they perform. These individuals and businesses have made the GLBT community into the viable, successful and powerful community it is today across the Gulf South. The Board of Directors includes Lisa Beaumann, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain and Toni J.P. Pizanie.

ary L. Lathouwers has been chosen unanimously by the Gay Appreciation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors to receive the 21st Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honor bestowed each year at the GAA Gala. Mary is a detective at the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) 8th District working on property crimes including burglary and fraud. She is also the liaison from NOPD to the GLBT community and has worked extensively in ensuring the safety of the community at events including the annual Southern Decadence celebration Labor Day Weekend. Working for thirteen years in law enforcement, Mary has been with NOPD for the past ten years. Mary and her partner of 19 years, Darlene Gaudin, will fly to San Francisco and legally marry on July 7. California allows same sex couples to celebrate their new found freedom to marry without discrimination under the law as of June 17, 2008. The GAA Board of Directors also announced the Top 5 Finalist in the following categories: Cheridon Comedy Award in honor of the late Sonny C. Cleveland: Big Mama, Lauren Brown, Eva Las Vegas, Princesse Stephaney, Amanda Straddle; Fly Fashion Glamour Award in memory of Ms. Fly: Christina Cayne, Raquel Chevallier, Chelsea Delorean Divine, Raven Kennedy, Opal Masters; Fly Fashion Victim Award in memory of Ms. Fly: Auntie Charlotte, Hyacinth Bucket, Blanche Debris, Pat McCardle, Mary L. Lathouwers Katrina Storm. 21st Lifetime Achievement Award The winners will be announced at the Honoree GAA Gala. The Marsha Delain Award of Excellence (the Drag Ambassador Award) Neighborhood Bar of the Year-Cafe will be presented by Marsha Naquin- Lafitte in Exile/New Orleans, Cowpokes/ Delain. New Orleans, Friendly Bar/New Orleans, New Orleans celebrity Savanna George's Place/Baton Rouge, Golden LanDeLorean will guest emcee the 21st GAA tern/New Orleans; Gala at Marigny Theatre, 1030 Marigny St., Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award-Gay EasNew Orleans, Saturday, July 19. GAA ter Parade/New Orleans, Greg T. Bell AIDS Founder Marcy Marcell and last year's Foundation/Baton Rouge, Michael "Fish" Entertainer of the Year, Princesse Hickerson/New Orleans, Toby Lefort/New Stephaney, are slated to perform. Addi- Orleans, NO/AIDS Task Force/New Ortionally, all GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year leans; Finalists are invited to do a production Bitch of the Year-Mia Bonet/Baton number for the event. Rouge, Electra City/New Orleans, Gia/ The award category winners, those Baton Rouge, Rusty Laroux/New Orleans, receiving the most public votes June 3-9 Brittney O'Bryan/New Orleans; (already one of the Top 5 Finalist), will be Show Bar of the Year-Cowpokes/New announced at the gala. Beginning at 8pm Orleans, Oz/New Orleans, Parade/New sharp, doors will open at 7pm. All pro- Orleans, Splash/Baton Rouge, Starlight ceeds from the event benefit the William By The Park/New Orleans; Fanning Foundation, better known as Buzzy’s Boys & Girls. GAA Gala Edition Due Out: July 15th The Top 5 Finalist in the public award voting categories include: DEADLINE: Tues., July 8th Circuit Party/Event of the Year-Big Gay Musical 2/Baton Rouge, Gay Days/OrEXPOSE/center AMBUSH/main lando, Gay Easter Parade/New Orleans, ambush paparazzi/nola 2 celebrazzi 14 Halloween/New Orleans, Southern Decathe pink pastor 3 cw6/how do you become sdgm? 16 hot tails, allons acadiana 4 sappho psalm 16 dence/New Orleans; red stick paparazzi/baton rouge 6 in the news 18 Hair Salon of the Year-Avallon/Baton acadiana paparazzi/lafayette 8 chop chop/nola restaurant guide 18 Rouge, Bobby Blue/New Orleans, Head ambush paparazz/nolai 10 snap paparazzi/nola 20 Quarters/New Orleans, Mickey Nolan/New classifieds 12 trodding the boards 22 Orleans, Salon D'Malta/New Orleans; one last song, mobile paparazzi 18 snap paparazzi/nola 26 Gay Carnival Ball of the Year-Krewe of know aids - no/aids 20 cookin' with auntie dee 27 Amon Ra/New Orleans, Krewe of Apollo/ obituary/michael “sean” dennis 20 krewe calendar 27 Baton Rouge, Krewe of Armeinius/New Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 Orleans, Lords of Leather/New Orleans, 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 Mystic Krewe of Satyricon/New Orleans;

inside

info@ambushmag.com

Ambush is proud to sponsor the Gay Appreciation Awards each year. For more info, visit AmbushMag.COM/GAA.

Special SIN Performance July 7 for Gertrude Stein and a Companion

here will be a special presentation of Gertrude Stein and a Companion by Will Wells on Monday night July 7th for employees of the service industry. Just show your TAM Card or employee ID card for a special event admission of $10 dollars. This special price is also extended to the theatre community who otherwise may not be able to see this great show due to conflicting schedules. The play presented by To Do Productions stars Karen Shields as Gertrude Stein and Lisa Davis as Alice B. Toklas, and is directed by Glenn Meche at Theatre Marigny, 1030 Marigny Street, New Orleans. Call 504.218.8559 or 504.948.9608 for more information. [continued on Main-6]

GulfSouthEntertainment/TravelGuideSince 1982 • Texas-Florida OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] E-mail: info@ambushmag.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 • 1.504.522.8047 ANNUAL READERSHIP: 650,000+ in print/3.5 Million+ On-line NATIONAL CIRCULATION: USA... Alabama-Birmingham, Mobile Florida - Ft. Lauderdale, Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Jackson Tennessee - Knoxville Texas - Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Galveston, Houston, San Antonio, South Padre Island

STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 LESBIAN/POLITICAL ISSUES Toni J.P. Pizanie, New Orleans THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands, Patrick Shannon AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Benedict-Baton Rouge, LA Patrick Clinton-Lafayette, LA Regina Adams, Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Miss Dee, Donnie Jay, Doug Minich-New Orleans DJ Chromatic, Craig Powell, Leon Weekley-Mobile, AL Roy Williams-Pensacola, FL NATIONAL ADVERTISING REP Rivendell Media~212.242.6863 AMBUSH Mag is published on alternate Tuesdays of each month by Ambush, Inc., R. Rip Naquin-Delain, President. Advertising, Copy & Photo DEADLINE is alternate Tuesdays, 4pm, prior to publication week, accepted via e-mail only: info@ambushmag.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 Mag. Subscription rate is $45 for 1/2 Year; $75 for 1 year. Sample Copy is $3 First Class Mail. ©1982-2007, AMBUSH, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NOTHING HEREIN MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER INCLUDING AD LAYOUTS, MAPS and PHOTOS. AMgrant - AMbush Advertising Grant Donation

MAIN~4 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~5 of 48

the "official" dish ...from Main-4

Satyricon Sponsors Running With Scissors’ Opening Night of A Place in the Sun

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon will sponsor the opening night, Friday, July 11, at 8pm, of Running with Scisssor’s newest venture into ridiculous theatre, their version of the Paramount classic, A Place in the Sun, at Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans. All tickets to this performance only are $25 and can be obtained by calling 504.525.4498. For all other performances, please call Le Chat’s box office at 504.581.5812.

NO/AIDS Task Force Holds 14th Annual Dining Out For Life Thursday, July 17

n Thursday, July 17, NO/AIDS Task Force is inviting everyone to support a great cause over a great meal for the 14th annual Dining Out For Life fund-raiser. The Task Force has teamed up with over 35 New Orleans area restaurants to raise funds to help men, women and families affected by HIV and AIDS. Stand up against HIV and AIDS by sitting down at one of your favorite restaurants. All you have to do is gather your family and friends for a good meal at one of the participating restaurants, and 25% of your check will go to supporting the services that NO/AIDS Task Force provides. Additionally, by making an extra

donation the night of the event, you will be entered into a drawing for a night’s stay at the International House Hotel or the W New Orleans - French Quarter. Participating restaurants include popular hot spots, longtime favorites and casual eateries in neighborhoods from Metairie to the Marigny, North Shore to the West Bank, and everywhere in-between. There are long time participants such as Louisiana Pizza Kitchen and La Peniche, and new supporters such as Phil’s Grill and The Country Club. There’s even the opportunity to catch dinner and a show at Minacapelli’s Dinner Playhouse in Slidell which will be participating on Friday, July 18 only. This year, Dining Out For Life is proud to have Ted Allen as spokesperson for the annual event. Food and wine connoisseur on Bravo’s hit TV series “Queer Eye For The Straight Guy,” Allen is currently a judge for Bravo’s “Top Chef” and Food Network’s “Iron Chef America” as well as host of the PBS series “Uncorked: Wine Made Simple”. Says Allen: “I’m really privileged to be involved with Dining Out for Life, especially at a time when too many people wrongly believe the HIV/AIDS crisis no longer IS a crisis. New HIV infections are on the rise in a generation of young gay men who weren’t around the first time AIDS ravaged our country; meanwhile, heterosexual women of color continue to be the fastest growing population of people with HIV. Dining Out makes it possible for virtually everyone to make a meaningful contribution to the fight against AIDS, while at the same time having fun and supporting restaurants in their community-it’s a win/win/win!”

For More information or the full list of participating restaurants, visit www.noaidsdfl.com or call 504.821.2601 ext 217. NO/AIDS would like to thank the generous sponsors that make Dining Out For Life possible: Abita Beer, RAIN Organics Vodka, Ambush Magazine, Gambit Weekly, NOLA.com, The Times Picayune, Where Y’AT Magazine, International House Hotel, W New Orleans French Quarter. NO/AIDS Task Force, the oldest HIV/ AIDS service organization in the Gulf South, was founded in 1983 in response to the early devastating effects of the AIDS epidemic in the New Orleans area. Over the past twenty five years the agency has created a continuum of supportive services to assist people affected and infected by HIV. Programs include HIV prevention education, a medical clinic, food pantry and meal delivery services, mental health, HIV testing & counseling, housing and medication assistance, among many others. The mission of NO/AIDS Task Force is “to reduce the spread of HIV infection, provide services, advocate empowerment, safeguard the rights and dignity of HIVaffected individuals, and provide for an enlightened public.” Over the last 13 years, Dining Out For Life has helped raise over $450,000 for the programs and services of NO/AIDS Task Force. Dining Out For Life International is the non-profit organization that runs the annual Dining Out For LifeR event. Dining Out For LifeR is an annual fund-raising event that raises awareness and funding for nonprofit organizations dedicated to the fight against HIV/AIDS. For more infor-

mation visit www.diningoutforlife.org.

NOMA Presents A Tribute to Cole Pratt

his summer, the New Orleans Museum of Art presents A Tribute to Cole Pratt: His Gallery’s First 15 Years, 1993-2008, an exhibition of work by 29 artists represented by the influential New Orleans-based gallerist. Pratt passed away unexpectedly on April 19. “Cole Pratt was a loyal friend and longtime supporter of the New Orleans Museum of Art,” said NOMA director E. John Bullard. “This exhibition is our way of recognizing his contributions to the visual arts in Louisiana. Through the artists he supported and encouraged, Cole left a legacy that will endure for centuries in this Museum, as well as in many of this city’s finest private collections.” Robert Coleman “Cole” Pratt, Jr. (1955-2008), a native of Mississippi, was well known for the Magazine Street gallery he opened in Uptown New Orleans in 1993. The Cole Pratt Gallery showcased artists from around the world, but built its reputation on those with ties to New Orleans and the South. A Tribute to Cole Pratt: His Gallery’s First Fifteen Years, 1993-2008 includes work by Leslie Addison, Wayne Amedee, Randy Asprodites, Lea Barton, James Beaman, Robert Berguson, Barbara Brainard, Andrew Bucci, Marie Bukowski, Denyce Celentano, Aaron Collier, Christine Cozic, Judy Cooper, Susan DowningWhite, Carolyn Evans, Miriam Hirsch, Richard Johnson, Robert Lansden, Gary [continued on Main-8]

MAIN~6 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~7 of 48

the "official" dish ...from 6 Martin, Dale Newkirk, Katie Rafferty, Sylvaine Sancton, Phil Sandusky, Karen Stastny, Paul Tarver, Glennray Tutor, Hasmig Vartanian, Evert Witte, and Carlos Zervigon. Of the 29 artists, nine are represented in NOMA’s permanent collection: Amedee, Bucci, Cooper, Evans, Hirsch, Johnson, Sandusky, Tarver, and Vartanian. The New Orleans Museum of Art, founded in 1910 by Isaac Delgado, houses more than 40,000 art objects encompassing 4,000 years of world art. Works from the permanent collection, along with continuously changing temporary exhibitions, are on view in the Museum’s 46 galleries Wednesdays from noon to 8pm and Thursdays through Sundays from 10am to 5pm. Admission to the Museum is free to Louisiana residents through the generosity of the Helis Foundation. Admission to the adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, featuring work by 57 artists, including several of the 20th century’s great master sculptors, is always free during regular

Museum hours. The New Orleans Museum of Art and the Sculpture Garden are fully accessible to handicapped visitors and wheelchairs are available from the front desk.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art Celebrates its 5th Anniversary through Aug. 31

elief is here! The Ogden Museum of Southern Art will make the sultry New Orleans summer seem like a cool breeze with activities for the whole family, exhibitions and music through August 31. The high point is the museum’s fifth anniversary, August 23, when it will host a variety of special events and activities, August 21 to 24. Need an excuse to visit? Top Five Reasons to Visit the Ogden this Summer: Adults pay only $5 admission! That’s right, half off general admission. (And, $5 more gets you into the Southern Museum of Food and Beverage in the Riverwalk. $10 = 2 museums!)

Take home a piece of art. Shop at the Museum Store and Center for Southern Craft and Design for a unique creation – all purchases are 5 percent off. (Don’t forget that the store also stocks CDs, books and Ogden hats and T-shirts.) Tune in at Ogden After Hours. Enjoy the good vibes on Thursday nights, 6pm to 8pm. Admission is only $5, too! Kid Appreciation = Art Appreciation. Activities for children all summer long. (And Ogden After Hours has a children’s art activity table.) Air conditioning. Never underestimate the pleasure of viewing art in a climatecontrolled building! Be sure to check the Web site (www.ogdenmuseum.org) and the Ogden-gram for more updates about all the exciting activities at the Ogden this summer. Museum hours are 11am - 4pm Wednesday through Sunday and 6 - 8pm Thursday evenings for Ogden After Hours. Free to members, $5 general admission (through Aug. 31, 2008). The museum is located at 925 Camp Street.

JUNGUA – The Descendants of the Dragon at Harrah’s Theatre in August

itness 2,500 years of tradition rolled into 90minutes of pure entertainment. Harrah’s New Orleans proudly presents JUNGUA - The Descendants of the Dragon featuring the Shaolin Disciples

(martial artists) and the Imperial Acrobats of China (contortionists, hand balancers, foot jugglers and aerialists). Catch the show at Harrah’s Theatre, Thursday through Sunday, August 7 – 10, August 14 – 17 and August 21 – 24, at 8pm nightly. A high impact, theatrical entertainment experience for all audiences, JUNGUA - Descendants of the Dragon celebrates the Chinese culture in an explosion of kung fu, acrobatics, music and dance. Dramatic scenery, authentic props and lavish costumes create a feast for the eyes. The amazing skills of China’s finest acrobats and martial arts masters combine with modern staging, exciting choreography and dramatic music and lighting to mesmerize the senses. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased in person at Harrah’s box office, by calling 504.533.6600 or on-line at Ticketmaster.com. You must be at least 21 to attend shows at Harrah’s Theatre. More information about the show and show times is available at www.harrahsneworleans.com. Harrah’s New Orleans is operated by a subsidiary of Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc., the world’s largest provider of branded casino entertainment. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada nearly 70 years ago, Harrah’s has grown through development of new properties, expansions and acquisitions. Harrah’s Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its customers through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership.

MCC Founder Performs First Legal Same-Sex Marriage

os Angeles, CA - Reverend Elder Troy Perry, Founder of Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) worldwide and a plaintiff in the recent California Supreme Court marriage cases, performed his first wedding ceremony in the United States in [continued on Main-12]

MAIN~8 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~9 of 48

MAIN~10 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~11 of 48

the "official" dish ...from Main-8 1968. On June 24, 2008, he finally got to conduct his first legal same-sex marriage. For 40 years, Reverend Troy Perry has married lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people as part of his ministry to them and as an act of civil disobedience. Reverend Dr. Cindi Love, Executive Director of the LGBT supporting Metropolitan Community Churches, married her partner of over 27 years at the MCC of Los Angeles. Reverend Elder Troy Perry and Reverend Neil Thomas officiated. Reverend Dr. Cindi Love has been the Executive Director of Metropolitan Community Churches since January 2005, and is the author of Would Jesus Discriminate? The 21st Century Question, a book that introduces a world wide campaign challenging all interpretations of the Bible that support discrimination

against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people The wedding coincides with the celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the Metropolitan Community Churches. Reverend Dr. Cindi Love is nationally recognized for business innovation, launching seven successful corporations. She was named among the “Top 50 Entrepreneurs” in North America by Inc. Magazine and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Reverend Dr. Cindi Love is a 3rd generation graduate of Abilene Christian University, and received her Doctorate in Educational Administration at Texas Tech Lubbock, Texas.

New Orleans Lesbian Literary Project Underway

ou're invited to be part of a project celebrating the New Orleans lesbian scene be-

tween 1965 and 2000. Tell your stories, especially about the places that staged so many memories, like Brady's, The Grog, Charlene's, Tonye's Garage Disco, Pino's and the streets themselves. Short stories, impressions, confessions, essays, po-

ems and photos are all encouraged. This project is a collaboration of Gwen Leonhard, author of Feathering Your Nest: An Interactive Guide to a Loving Lesbian Relationship and Diana Souza, illustrator of the children's book Heather Has Two Mommies. If you would like to be considered for an interview, call Gwen 504.610.0526 or Diana 214.475.6077. Get on the e-mail list and send your stories to Leonhard_Souza@yahoo.com. Countdown for submissions is August 31, 2008.

MAIN~12 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~13 of 48

celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

he Louisiana State Gay Rodeo Association (LSGRA) Train Excursion aboard the Louisiana refurbished 1937 Pullman Parlor Observation Car, hosted by Mr. and Miss LSGRA, Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, raised $3,555 for the organization. The excursion departed from the Moon Walk at the Mississippi River for the top of the Huey P. Long Bridge for a cocktail toast and returned to the Moon Walk ending the excursion. Special thanks to Jim Bridger and the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad for making this event possible. Since 2004, the rail car excursions have raised over $955,000 for charities. Photo: (front) Cody, 700 Club’s Mike, Pride Grand Marshal Toby, Bourbon Pub’s Travis; (back) JohnPaul’s John, LSGRA President Lance, King Satyricon V Tony, Keith and Lea.

he Mr. and Miss Gay Pride Pageant, hosted at the Parade in New Orleans, saw Constantine and Tatiana win the 2008 titles. Photo: Miss Gay Pride ’07 Passion Armani Cassidine, 1st Runner-up Vanessa Carmichael, Miss Gay Pride ’08 Tatiana, Mr. Gay Pride ’08 Constantine, 1st Runner-up Hot Toddie and Mr. Gay Pride ’07 Keno Cane Broadway.

orner Pocket Bar Baron Michael Elias is joined by Barry Bareass and Oz GM Tommy Elias for The Corner Pocket’s 26th Anniversary Party: Sugar Daddy Sunday complete with a festive buffet, Bottoms-Up Show and Sugar Daddy Contest in New Orleans on Father's Day. The show starred Barry and The Corner Pocket Boys, along with the talents of Lisa Beaumann and Electra City.

huck Turner and Bill Miller celebrated the 7th anniversary of their club, Double Play, in New Orleans. The couple served one of their famous mega buffets and $1 drinks for two hours.

egendary Marcy Marcell, founder of the Gay Apprecia-tion Awards, joins dear friend Eva “The Diva” Las Vegas for her 70th birthday blowout at John Paul’s in New Orleans. Friends from far and wide showed up for the affair which included a special birthday version of the Golden Age Revue dedicated to Eva and headed by Marcy.

hyllis Denmark as Glinda, the Good Witch, and Sister Muffy as Dorothy, raised over $2,000 during “Over the Rainbow Gay Bingo” for Metro Charities in St. Pete, Florida.

00 Club Bar Barons Matt Giglio and Mike Cookmeyer, and Dr. Kyle Scafide of UNO, celebrate the Grand Opening of New Orleans newest club. Several hundred revelers turned out for In The Beginning starring real life Adam (Josh) and Eve (Christina Cayne). Guests were treated to complimentary cocktails for two hours along with culinary creations from Food Art. The club at 700 Burgundy Street, corner of St. Peter, presents “a new cocktail concept for the French Quarter.”

he June 17th Grand Opening of 700 Club coincided with the 55th birthday blowout for King Cake Queen XV and Miss LSGRA, Marsha Naquin-Delain. Friends joined her at the fab grand opening bash to celebrate. Photo: (front) David and Rhonda Roget, Marsha, Barry Rutherford and Cathy Fox, Darwin Reed; (back) Stephen Murrell and Jeff Mallon, Tami Tarmac, Queen Amon Ra Opal Masters and King Amon Ra Paul Davis.

MAIN~14 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~15 of 48

cw6 by The Susan Lucci's E-mail: info@ambushmag.com

How do you become Southern Decadence Grand Marshal?

ne of the top questions we receive at Ambush and SouthernDecadence.COM is just how can one become the Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshal? Each year, the previous year's Southern Decadence Grand Marshal or Marshals choose their successor(s). There is no criteria for the choice. At one time, the individual(s) chosen had to put in their time participating in the Official Southern Decadence Parade on the Sunday of Labor Day Weekend for several years. In recent years the Parade Lieutenant or Lieutenants were chosen for the help given to the reigning grand marshal or marshals. And in some years, it has strictly been at the whim of the grand marshal or marshals making whatever choice or choices they choose. This year, the 2007 Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXIV: Electra City, Guadalupe and Marcus Martinez, made their official choices known on Sunday, May 25 in the Balcony Bar at Cafe Lafitte in Exile, the oldest gay bar in North America, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals located at 901 Bourbon Street. They chose XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma two to reign as the 2008 Southern Deca(Photo: Larry Graham)

dence Grand Marshals XXXV, Tittie Toulouse and Paloma. Whether the public agrees with a choice or choices does not matter. It is strictly the right of the previous year's grand marshal or marshals to make that choice. Here at Ambush, the Official Southern Decadence Guide, and at SouthernDecadence.COM, the Official Southern Decadence Website, we join enthusiastically in support each year of the choice or choices of grand marshal or marshals. This tradition is now in its third decade, and is the right of every Southern Decadence Grand Marshal(s). Join us in support of the official choices in 2008, Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma. The duo has just finished their photo shoot for the 2008 Southern Decadence Poster filmed by renowned photographer, Larry Graham. The poster will be unveiled at the upcoming Southern Decadence Press Party, as well as the release of their "official song" scheduled for Wednesday, July 23rd at the Parade, 801 Bourbon Street. The grand marshals have already announced the official theme: Decadence Does Disco; colors: silver, black and white; sponsors thus far: Ambush, Bud Light, Larry Graham, Queen Fashions, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli and SouthernDecadence.COM, and Parade Lieutenants: Poncho and Ken Grandpre.

sappho psalm by Toni J.P. Pizanie E-mail: Psalmwrite@aol.com

Adoption Info

f you are in a same sex relationship and want to adopt, here’s how to begin according to HRC’s Equality, news about GLBT America, 1. find an agency that has an explicit statement of inclusion; 2. learn more about the children, young and older, who are waiting for families; 3. become informed of the laws in your state, city and county (parish) that will have an impact on the adoption process; 4. talk to other LGBT adoptive parents about their experiences; 5. go to www.hrc.org/parenting to learn more.

Fund-raiser Etiquette

und-raisers are a good place to network. At Project Lazarus’ Bon Appetite recently, I talked with Jack Sullivan about the AIDS Memorial. He asked that I encourage readers to support the Memorial. He was surprised when I told him that I had done just that in the issue that had yet to be distributed. This is good fund-raising etiquette. Alex was networking for Zion Medical Group, an AIDS side effects medical service. I will have an interview with Alex soon because what he is doing is needed in the New Orleans AIDS Community. Alex has offered to Erik, Director of Project Lazarus, any assistance he can lend. This is good networking etiquette. However, I witnessed some poor behavior that I just have to complain about. A fund-raiser is not a private party where anyone can do anything. It is not acceptable to drink too many martinis. It is also not acceptable to drink until you are hanging onto people. But the worst unacceptable behavior was guests who make out in a closet at Jim Mounger’s home. That was networking to the extreme and bad etiquette. I came home truly upset after that evening. What made me react so strongly was that I knew these people so I felt a degree of embarrassment. The last time I did something that stupid and inconsiderate my girlfriend of three months told me that she could not continue to date someone who drank so much that she insulted her. Her mom was an alcoholic so I understood her fear. She admitted she was dating me for my position in the community. I was on three

boards at the time and writing for Ambush and had just brought “Road to Freedom” to the Hanson Gallery so she thought in error that I was special for those reasons. “I am special just because I am, not because I work hard,” was my only defense. But I knew that there was no defense for insulting anyone at that party. I just could not hold my delicious and numerous drinks. I’ve witnessed that so often that I knew better. I guess everyone has to mess up in public at least once or for some a few times. What is really good etiquette is that so many heterosexual people are supporting AIDS fund-raisers. The face of AIDS in New Orleans today is young, heterosexual, black women. That should be a good reason for some of those homophobic black preachers to support the Task Force and other AIDS agencies if not our community.

Camp Equality

n this election year, HRC is holding a dozen two and one half day training camps. Volunteers will learn phone banking, canvassing, earned media, on-line voter files, and grassroots lobbying. HRC president, Joe Solmonese says, “Now, rather than only bringing volunteers to Washington, we’re also going into the field, into key states across the country.” In Washington, there will also be training for 40 young people from 18 to 24 years of age. For more information, go to www.hrc.org/campequality. Close to home is the session in Dallas, TX on August 15th through 17th. There are also training sessions is Denver, Philadelphia, Columbus and Cincinnati in July, August and September.

HRC Corporate Partners

ver wonder which corporations are supporting the equality of GLBT people? HRC has been signing on corporate partners for a number of years. I’ll list a few just in case you have need of their services: American Airlines, Citi, IBM, Deloitte LLP, Ernst & Young, Prudential Financial, The Advocate and [continued on Main-18]

MAIN~16 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~17 of 48

in the news American Brotherhood Weekend July 11-13

fter a year’s hiatus, American Brotherhood Weekend (ABW) and the American Leather Family contest is retuning to the national leather event landscape on July 11-13, 2008, in New Orleans. The event and contest has been redesigned by producers Dean Ogren and Paula Smith with the aid of a coalition of Leather Family members and close associates, under the auspices of Frank Nowicki. On-line registration can be accessed through www.americanbrotherhood.com. A special rate for event weekend lodging at the Omni Royal Orleans, ABW’s host hotel, also is available through the ABW website. Producers Ogren and Smith officially announce the slate of judges for the 2008 American Leather Family contest. Accepting their judging posts are “First Lady of Leather” Mary Elizabeth Boyd; “Mr. Marcus” Hernandez, Leather Columnist, Bay Area Reporter; Sarah Humble, American Leatherwoman 1994; Kevin McGraw, First American Leatherboy (1995); Judy Tallwing, First International Ms Leather (1987); Noel J. Twilbeck, Jr., Executive Director for NO/AIDS Task Force; and, Jose Ucles, American Leatherman, 199192.

sappho psalm ...from Main-16 Out, AT&T, BP, Chase, Harrah’s Entertainment, Showtime, Volvo, Dell, Merrill Lynch, Motorola, Nike, Shell, UPS and WaMu. This information is current as of April 15, 2008.

The Championships

es, it is Wimbledon time again. I will spend two weeks watching as much of the action as ESPN2 will allow. I try very hard not to schedule anything for this time as I love every minute of play even if my favorites aren’t doing as well as I would like. Already the American men are falling in the first rounds except for Roddick. The favorites, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic, are moving ahead. The Williams sisters, Serena and Venus, are also winning early rounds. Of course, we will have to wait until the next issue for my impressions of this year’s results. I notice that the score boards in Center Court have been updated since I was last there but the grass is as green and the play as exciting. One of my reasons for loving Wimbledon is that I love going to England for any reason. In the many months that I have visited different areas of England, I have never been disappointed with the places, people and, one of my loves, the history. It is truly exciting to walk through a country where the long time history is so evident. I think that is true for most major cities in Europe. Still England is my favorite with Italy running a close second. I only wish I could have spent much more time in Europe. I'm thrilled for those Americans who are able to experience extended travel or live in Europe for any length of time. If it were not for the two surgeries that

Those interested in competing for the titles of American Leatherman, American Leatherwoman, American Leatherboy or American Leathergirl may contact Contestant Coordinator Robert Napolitano at RANapolitano@aol.com. Guidelines and applications to compete are available through Napolitano or the ABW website. ABW is committed to serving the community in which the event takes place. To that end, this year ABW is pleased to dedicate proceeds from its charity silent auction fund-raiser to New Orleans' own NO/AIDS Task Force. Silent auction items will be up for bid Friday 10am-7pm and

again Saturday 9am-12noon. The fundraising will be capped with a live auction Saturday night at the Phoenix Bar during the block party starting at 10pm. The event and contest are sponsored in part by the Dallas Eagle, The Lloyd E. Randall Foundation, The Knights of Leather of Minneapolis, The Leather Rack of Washington D.C. and Leather Central of Pittsburgh, as well as by “Friends of ABW.” To become a $50 Friend of ABW, go to www.americanbrotherhood.com and follow the links.

President Marvalene Hughes Vows to Strengthen Financial Internal Controls

ew Orleans – President Marvalene Hughes of Dillard University announced to the University community her plans to restructure the Division of Business and Finance in order to assure tighter internal controls to protect the University’s assets. The decision comes on the heels of

the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools (SACS) decision to place the University on probation for its need to gain tighter control over its fiscal assets. “We were already on that path,” said Hughes, “and the action taken by SACS underscores the need to take swift corrective action and has made us even more resolute to do just that! Thus a new restructuring plan and new leadership will be identified immediately.” Dillard University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), has been a cornerstone of educational excellence and a critical part of the New Orleans community since 1869.

Award-Winning Comedian Kathy Griffin Returns to Mandalay Bay July 18

AS VEGAS - Kathy Griffin has been making audiences laugh for years with her quick wit and

[continued on Main-21]

chop chop Dean Ogren, Paula Smith & Frank Nowicki bring American Brotherhood Weekend and American Leather Family contest to New Orleans (Photo: Dave Rhodes)

I have had in the past six months, the Italian Open in Rome was on my list of “todo” things. I enjoy watching tennis. Sometimes it is like watching a beautiful ballet. That’s Federer’s specialty, and he has won five Championships at Wimbledon in a row. Sometimes the shear athleticism of people like Serena Williams just forces your heart into your throat until the match is complete. She, too, has won the Wimbledon title. As I write this, I am watching the handsome, young Haase play Hewitt. Hewitt was expected to win this fifth set and match, and he did. But it will take a toll on the man I consider a racist, homophobe who is having hip problems. I don’t expect him to go further than the round of 16 if that far. I am looking forward to watching Venus play soon. She has won four Wimbledon titles. Next up for ESPN2 is more men’s first round play with Safin. He is the big (6’4”) Russian with the larger temper that has entertained us for years. Safin has won both the US (2000) and Australian Opens. Another Wimbledon champ is the open lesbian, Mauresmo. She will be playing Harkleroad, the American who refused to play on the USA Olympic Team. I had the opportunity to watch Mauresmo on the practice courts at Wimbledon, and almost fell to my knees when she faced me and smiled while retrieving a ball near the fence that separated us. She is scheduled after the Safin match. I will be rooting for her; yes, against the American. As much as I want to continue watching, it is almost time to shower and dress for an afternoon meeting at Ambush. It is GAA time again, and the board has to pick a few winners for those selections not voted on by the public. But I’ll be up at 5am for another full day of tennis.

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain www.ripandmarsha.com E-mail: info@ambushmag.com

New Orleans Restaurant Guide Buffa's, 1001 Esplanade at Burgundy, serves breakfast 8am-4pm daily featuring homemade biscuits and sausage gravy, and real hash browns along with bacon, sausage, ham, eggs or omelettes. Lunch and dinner is also available here. Call 949.0038 for info. Bywater Bar.B.Que, 3162 Dauphine St., is noted for its gumbo, barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and specials. Hours are 11am-9pm Mon.-Fri., and 9am-9pm Sat. & Sun. Closed Wed. Call 944.4445 for additional info. MasterCard/Visa accepted. Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., offers romantic courtyard or indoor dining along with both eclectic culinary creations and drinks. Serving lunch and dinner, Wed.Sun. 11am-9pm, Sat. breakfast 10am3pm and Sun., brunch 10am-3pm. Call 412.8965 for reservations or additional information. Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., is open 7 days and features breakfast including build your own omelettes. But let’s not forget their fab burgers grilled right under a hub cap and then there’s all those sandwiches, sides, desserts and shakes. Call 598.1010 or visit CloverGrill.COM. Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St. Under the direction of new Chef Miles Prescott, you will find delightful menus offering French bistro cuisine including appetizers, soups, flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, wraps, entrees and desserts. Serving Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am–12midnight, Sunday 10am–10pm, Sunday Brunch 10am–3pm, closed Tuesday. Call 945.0742 for additional information or visit TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM. Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, Open 24 hours, it's one of the best stops for fast food with tasty burgers, hot dogs and breakfast. Call 523.4030 for more

info.Magazine Perks, 4332 Magazine, serves gourmet coffee, sandwiches, pastries, danish and cakes. Open 7 days 7am10pm. Call 899.2911 or visit MagazinePerks.COM. Marigny Perks, 2401 Burgundy, serves gourmet coffee, sandwiches, pastries, danish and cakes. Open 7 days 7am10pm. Call 948.7401 or visit www.marignyperks.com. Meauxbar Bistro, 942 N. Rampart St., serves classic contemporary bistro fare in the Quarter on the edge. Serving dinner and drinks Tues.-Sat, 6-10pm. Call 569.9979 for reservations or information. Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., features Italian specialties including salads, pizzas, sandwiches and both lunch and dinner entrees. Lunch 11am-5pm Thurs.-Mon., Dinner 5pm-10pm 7 days. Call 522.6746 for info. Petunias, A Restaurant, 817 St. Louis, is open daily 8am-10pm serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, crepes, po-boys, salads, gumbo, Cajun/Creole specialties and dinner. Call 522.6440 for more info. Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St., was voted Restaurant/Deli of the Year once again and is open 24 hours 7 days. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the deli offers free delivery. Call 529.1416 to order. Riche, Fulton Street at Poydras inside Harrah's Hotel, brings Chef Todd English with his one and only French brasseriestyle restaurant to the city. Just steps from the Convention Center and Harrah's Casino, call 533.6117 for reservations and information. Tomatillo's Restaurant, 437 Esplanade Ave., is open Tues., Wed. 11am10pm; Thurs.-Sun. 11am-11pm. The restaurant refers to itself as "A Mexican Joint" featuring appetizers, soups, salads, make your own combination plates, house specialties, burritos, desserts, and of course, specialty margaritas. Call 945.9997 for reservations.

MAIN~18 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~19 of 48

Stephen, Jeff, Marsha, King Amon Ra Paul, Kevin & Richard celebrate Marsha’s 55th b-day at 700 Club’s Grand Opening

Cody, Malissa & Paul serve up cocktails for 700 Club’s mega grand opening blowout Adam (Josh) of Adam & Eve welcome guest to 700 Club’s Grand Opening In The Beginning

DJ P (Philip) kicks off Kocktail Karaoke at Good Friends Bar Tuesdays

snap Double Play’s Doc pops in for 700 Club’s Grand Opening 4 Seasons’ bartender Eddie joins Marsha for her b-day at 700 Club’s Grand Opening

Rikki Gee is DJ P’s side-kick for Good Friends’ Kocktail Karaoke

Eve (Christina Cayne) of Adam & Eve tempting guests at 700 Club’s Grand Opening In The Beginning

Entertainer of the Year Princesse Stephaney & Sam join 700 Club’s Grand Opening festivities Hector welcomed guests at the door for 700 Club’s Grand Opening blowout

Persana Shoulders & SDGM XXXV Tittie Toulouse at 700 Club’s Grand Opening

Queen Fashions’ Tip & Marcy Marcell celebrate Marsha’s 55th at 700 Club’s Grand Opening

Marsha joined by SDGM XXXV Gary for her b-day blowout at 700 Club’s Grand Opening

Bartender Steve slings cocktails at Golden Lantern

Winston & Emmy cocktailin’ at Golden Lantern

Roger & Glenn pop in for In The Beginning at 700 Club

Godmother Janice & 700 Club Bar Baron Mike celebrate at the Grand Opening

Rip celebrates Marsha’s 55th birthday at 700 Club’s June 17th Grand Opening

Marsha & Chris (aka Savanna DeLorean) celebrate Marsha’s 55th b-day at 700 Club’s Grand Opening

Mr. Gay Pride 1st Runner-up Hot Toddie celebratin’ at The Golden Lantern

MAIN~20 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Grand Openings, Birthdays, Cocktails ~ New Orleans

paparazzi

in the news ...from Main-18 entertaining antics. In 2007, Griffin’s Bravo series Kathy Griffin: My Life On The DList earned the seasoned performer her first Emmy. On Friday, July 18 Griffin will demonstrate her illustrious humor through discussions of Hollywood gossip and celebrity blunders during two hilarious performances inside the Mandalay Bay Theatre. Show times are 7:30pm and 10:30pm. Tickets are priced at $71 inclusive and are available at any Mandalay Bay box office and all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call the Mandalay Bay box office at 702.632.7580 or Ticketmaster at

Counseling and Psychotherapy Couples, individuals, communication skills, coming out, relationship issues, grief and substance abuse. Gay therapist for Lesbian and Gay Issues.

We care. We understand.

A Counseling Cooperative

504.836.0000 3001 Fifth St. Metairie, LA 70002

David Wagner, PhD, LPC, NCC, CHT

702.474.4000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com. Guest must be 18 years of age or older. Griffin’s bold humor lends itself perfectly to the unscripted environment of reality television. After winning the competitive ABC reality show Celebrity Mole, Griffin went on to host several reality programs before landing a starring role in her own show on Bravo, Kathy Griffin: My Life On The D-List. She also co-hosted The Billboard Music Awards for three years and has appeared on many talk shows, such as The View, Howard Stern, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Night with David Letterman. Griffin has appeared on numerous television shows including Suddenly Susan, Ugly Betty, The X Files and Seinfeld. Griffin’s distinctive voice can be heard in animated series such as The Simpsons, Stripperella and Dilbert. The fourth season of Kathy Griffin: My Life On The DList, premiered June 12.

1021 W. J udg e P er ez Judg udge Per ere

Chalmette, LA 70043 • Free Prescription Delivery • Direct Billing to Medicaid/Medicare • Private Insurance & Third-Party Payers • Billing Assistance • Competitive Pricing • Confidential, Personal, Professional Service

504.279.6312 24 Hour Beeper: 504.259.8061

A proven community leader in value and customer service!

AMBUSH

MAG.COM 828

• We Deliver or ship to your home/office • We Accept Medicaid/Medicare Rodney Culotta, RPh

OPEN

9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat.. GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~21 of 48

trodding the boards by Patrick Shannon, III E-mail: nedcat@earthlink.net

Rosencrantz And Guildenstern Are Dead, A Commentary

OCCA Students recently braved a production in of Tom Stoppard’s play, Rosencrantz And Guildenstern Are Dead in the NIMS Blackbox Theater on campus. Just the thought that these students would even attempt to do his opaque and difficult play was a triumph and I was anxious to see their staging. As fate would have it I was ill and arrived late, only being able to see about 45 minutes of their work. I was very impressed. With little more than costumes and a few props they were able to swim through this convoluted plot about two minor characters from Shakespeare’s Hamlet as imagined by the playwright Mr. Stoppard, not only presenting us a view of a curious take on what happens to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern after Shakespeare’s quick use of them from what is considered by many to be the Bard’s own most opaque drama but doing it by acting strange roles in a play as dense and brilliant as Hamlet. Also, playwright Stoppard loves words and word play and tricks of the language. He delves deeply into deep ideas. The style, subject matter, and rhythm of his language is no easy thing to do well. His plays appeal more so to the intellectual patron than perhaps those who like simpler theater and musicals. Therefore it is with great pleasure that I can say that what I saw and heard done by the NOCCA students with Mr. Stoppard’s puzzle of a play was most admirable. Each student took what could easily have become an intangible ghost of a role and made it human, warm, and memorable. They spoke the lines with clarity and uncurled the whirligig speeches with confidence. I especially liked the strong stage presence and self confidence of Rudy Rihner (Rosencrantz) and Mauricio Le Sage (Guildenstern) and the beautifully spoken young actress, Azalea Fairley who

played Queen Gertrude. Her royalty was self evident as she carried herself with such dignity across the stage... Among the other players who helped unravel this kitty-twisted yarn of many knotted or simple lengths of fuzzy woolen ideas were Zachary Beaulieu (The Player), Evan Citanovic (Polonius and Tragedian), Carl Harrison (Player, King Horatio), Andrew Landry (Ambassador, Tragedian, Servant), Marc Linam (Claudius), Deshawn Dabney (Tragedian, Soldier), Connor Flynn (Alfred) and Catherine Rodrigues (Ophelia). The play was directed with wit and energy by Mauricio Le Sage and Rudy Rihner. The works of Tom Stoppard are a thick and heavy dish to be served so well by such young actors and technicians. They did the whole recipe and served it all with style, gusto, and humor, seeming to enjoy each moment they shared on stage. And so did we.

Gertrude Stein and a Companion

o Do Productions is currently presenting a play at the Marigny Theater written by Win Wells about the life of Gertrude Stein (3/3/18747/27/1946), the famous Jewish American writer who left America circa 1903 to spend most of her life in France. After meeting Alice B. Toklas in 1907, these two women spent the rest of their lives together holding a salon in Paris that attracted most of the avant garde artists and writers of their era such as Picasso, Hemingway, Fitzgerald , Cezanne and Renoir and which have since become considered among the greatest artists of the twentieth century. The play as done by To Do Productions is a simple no frills gentle interpretation of a woman and her companion who were not only important catalysts of the au courant art and literary scene of the twentieth century but have also become, next to Sappho, one of the world’s most renown lesbians and positive examples

Lisa Davis & Karen Shields in Gertrude Stein and a Companion (Photo: Glenn Meche)

Ken Pauley, Carlos Gonzalez, Mary Pauley & Warren Usey in Smoke, A French Quarter Fantasy

of the lesbian community as a literary icon. Probably one of the world’s most famous portraits is the one of Ms. Stein done by Picasso which hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Although Director Glenn Meche has cast his characters in the style of “a happy home life of gentle love and understanding,” Picasso’s portrait implies a woman who sits before one like the Rock of Gibralter. One wonders if the playwright’s vision was a 'family version' of an otherwise stronger, smarter, less effeminate character. There was too much Walt Disney and not enough real womyn in Gertrude Stein’s character in Director Meche’s interpretation, although Karen Shields gives us a fully realized and almost too lovable character in her delicate and well polished version of Mr. Meche’s direction. She was very credible but a little too “housewifely” for my taste. I guess what I felt was needed was a dose or two of testosterone. Lisa Davis, that vivacious, veritable vixen of volatile stage characters was more acceptable as Ms. Stein’s take-charge lover/companion Alice B. Toklas. To paraphrase a comment of Ms. Stein from the play, “without Alice nothing would have been possible.” Alice was a cook (remember the brownies with hash) from her famous cookbook, among other fine recipes. Toklas was also a take charge woman with a fine business sense, wit, intelligence, and charm, according to all records. Ms. Davis gives her all of those qualities bringing a real life Alice to the stage and the chemistry between her and Ms. Shields is excellent. Timm Holt did a fine job with the lighting and Wesley Coder’s set decoration was stunning. As the curtain opens, one is suddenly exalted by a kaleidoscope of the brilliant colors of some of the paintings Ms. Stein owned. They are lit (upstage rear) behind a curtain of scrim which makes them so vivid that the symbol of all they imply creatively for and all that Ms. Stein encouraged from their creators comes together in an epiphany of amazement and joy and beauty. The play, Gertrude Stein and a Companion may not be an epiphany, but it is a quiet and pleasant joy offering a very lovely evening in the theater.

Smoke, A French Quarter Fantasy

moke, A French Quarter Fantasy on stage at Theater Marigny shows without question that we have another playwright in our town. In this lovely and lyrical fantasy by Steve Patrick about love, death, reincarnation, and other matters that haunt both the heart and the intellect, Mr. Patrick has created a three act drama that speaks softly of intimate and heartfelt matters in a voice unique to our local playwrights. A lovely female spirit comes to inhabit and influence the lives of three gay men all of whom she finds a way to open their hearts and minds to life and love and a patient Zen like mysterious acceptance of what will be will be but with some small effort (and a little help from this mysterious spiritual and spirit-woman Eudora) played with a mystical and delicate stage presence and beautiful stage diction by Mary Pauley. Ms. Pauley returns in acts two and three in the roles of Margaret and M/R. She must find someone among these men to give her ethereal and healing gifts because her time for such loving care has come to an end. Who will be the man to receive this sacred duty from among the three? Any, why? It was refreshing to hear Mr. Patrick’s soft reference to some understanding of Buddhism, and other spiritual and/or philosophical concept in his script. He must be a very well read gentleman. Carlos Gonzalez played the roles of Leo, Rory, and Dade with gusto and a tender masculinity. Louis St. Romain played Maurice, Jason and Warren with a convincing grace. Warren Usey played his part with a special softness of approach which was convincing and touching. Maybe this is why he becomes so central a character to the plays denouement. Rich Daigle as lighting and sound manager had no concept of what stage lighting is all about. His sound was ok, but his glaring white full stage lighting in so many scenes simply allowed any and all physical defects, skin abrasions, pimples, warts, and bruises to look like magnified medical slides. It was unflattering to the actors in the nude or clothed. It was a clever ruse of Mr. Patrick to [continued on Main-23]

MAIN~22 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

trodding the boards ...from Main-22 have his actors return to the stage naked after their demise to symbolize the dead. “We are born naked so we shall return from death if necessary, naked,” to paraphrase a line from the play. In that respect Mr. Rich Daigle’s lighting made the naked males look like very very white zombies allowing their genitals to bobble and bounce around so clearly viewed as to become quite distracting. He missed many a moment to establish a mood via jells and a better concept of illumination and placement of light. Donnie Jay did a wonderful job costuming the spiritwoman in a simple Grecian styled tunic of a delicate silver grey color trimmed in a small gold band of the Greek key design. The men wore contemporary jeans, pants, pull overs and nothing to take note of, however in their plain skins they were quite often so milky white maybe a little Indian red earth sprayed would have helped dim the glare. Kevin Champagne did the Choreography which was well demonstrated in an underwater scene, slow motion and graceful movements in sync between the two actors. Steve Patrick’s play is a unique experience which is worth of seeing so you can hear his unique voice unfold in this lovely fantasy of a thinking patron’s drama.

Pal Joey

here’s not much more that can be said about so nearly perfect the two productions I will comment upon this time: Pal Joey our Tulane University First production of the Summer Lyric Series and our own Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre’s Cabaret. Pal Joey, the Rogers, Hart and O’Hara classic Broadway musical was quite simply magnificent. It was one of the most polished productions in the history of Summer Lyric Theatre since Bryon Michael Howard has been the Artistic Director/Director serving this highly praised organization. Mr. Howard’s direction was faultless. I was awed by the overall and the everything of this complicated show as it played smooth as silk in every moment on stage. Musical Director C. Leonard Rayon did magic with the orchestra. It had a full and centered sound, the sound of what a 90 piece orchestra would be like from the pit of New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The choreography by Edmond Kresley once again demonstrated his years of hard work and much talent and terpsichorean wit and energy. The dancers were awesome and beautiful to watch. How do they learn so much in so short a rehearsal time? Ah, and those sets by Rick Paul!. Beautiful! Also, witty, well constructed and a perfect fit for Mr. Howard’s directorial vision. Linda and Don Guilliot’s wigs were right on the 1950’s haute couture level. And Charlotte Lang’s costumes looked like they had been found in perfect condition from a shop that had packed away all its 1950 haute couture for safe keeping and given to Ms. Lang. We know however that they were pure Charlotte Lang; solid, well researched, complimentary in color and helped make this show a pure gold event. I’ve spoken about the tech workers and artists because one of the visual attractions of this show was the totally 1957ish look. Not a detail in visual design, stage mannerisms, acting styles, and all the other works that make for a total production were off. I was amazed. The performers were of course, top of the line and their singing was perfect for the role of each character. The great dancer Ian Carney acted with great credibility as Joey Liz Argus & Ian Carney in Pal Joey Evans and his

dancing was graceful masculinity without a single “off step.” Elizabeth Argus was the Vera Simpson of this decade. She was sophisticated and beautiful and acted with such delicate and highly polished technique I felt like I was snooping through some window at a real life adventure. She was a very memorable Vera Simpson. Robert Pavlovich was ideal and created a seamless character in the role of Mike Spears. Katie Howe as Linda English was totally believable and likable and Kelly Fouchi gave us one of her all time unforgettable performances as the character Gladys Bumps. Ken Goode as Ludlow Lowell was a perfect fit professionally with the rest of this irresistible, so talented, vocally wonderful cast of a really good New York City no-nonsense professional production of Pal Joey. What a shame it couldn’t play longer, and what a shame that that psychologically walled in university must continue to be ruled by that medieval very private coven of Les Precieuses Ridicules members who rule Tulane University’s Theater and Dance Department. They simply can’t be more open to the common public rather than just the invited, the students, friends, staff and the alumni.

Cabaret

he recent production of Masteroff, Kander, and Ebb’s anti-Nazi musical directed by Derek Franklin and Sonny Borey was magnificent; another remarkable triumph to add to their recent glorious productions. Franklin and Borey kept the action moving at a good clip but all that rented scenery was a bit of an over kill. Took time away from the pacing also. I thought the acting and directing alone even on a minimalist stage set would have made this well performed show work. As it was it did entertain, enthrall and even more important, make one think about evil in the world, most unusual for a Broadway mu[continued on Main-27]

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~23 of 48

MAIN~24 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~25 of 48

C&B Enterprises’ GM John behind the mega buffet spread for Double Play’s 7th Anniversary

Tom Conners & Marsha cocktailin’ at Double Play’s 7th Anniversary

The Metairie Gang from 4 Seasons pops in for Double Play’s 7th

Bartenders Mike & Stephen serve up $1 cocktails for Double Play’s 7th Anniversary

Double Play’s Doc & Golden Age Revue’s Marcy pop in for the Pocket’s anniversary

Tom Conners joins Michael Elias for The Corner Pocket’s 26th Anniversary

SDGM XXXV Gary, aka Tittie Toulouse, & GAA Top 5 Entertainer of the Year Finalist & SDGM XXXIV Electra City join The Corner Pocket festivities

Quartermaster’s Steve supplied the fab CP Anniversary Buffet while Oz’s Glenn brought in his famous gumbo

Barry Bareass hosts his Bottoms-Up Show celebrating The Corner Pocket’s 26th Anniversary

Armeinius’ Lavel & GAA Top 5 Fly Fashion Victim Award Finalist Auntie Charlotte pop in for the Pocket’s 26th Anniversary

Jacob in The Corner Pocket’s Anniversary Bottoms-Up Show

GAA Top 5 DJ of the Year Finalist Tim Pfleuger hails from Oz & Splash

One of the HOT Men of Manwatch on the bar at GAA Top 5 Dance & Show Bar of the Year Finalist Oz

Another HOT one from the Men of Manwatch at Oz

GAA Top 5 Fly Fashion Victim Award Finalist Blanche Debris on stage at Oz

snap paparazzi

Donna keeps everyone happy at Double Play’s 7th Anniversary Buffet

Bruce & Ashlee sling cocktails for Corner Pocket’s 26th Anniversary

Josh joins the Bottoms-Up Show at the Pocket

Joe behind the bar at GAA Top 5 Dance & Show Bar of the Year Finalist Oz

MAIN~26 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Anniversaries, Celebs & Stars ~ New Orleans

Corner Pocket’s Michael & Josh join Chuck & Bill celebrating Double Play’s 7th Anniversary

cookin' with auntie dee by Donnie Jay E-mail: auntiedeej@hotmail.com Photo©GrahamStudioOne.COM

Outside Grilling

ley

ummer is definitely upon us, so light up that outdoor grill and let’s not heat up the whole house fixing an evening meal. Whether you are using a charcoal or wood burning grill or perhaps a modern gas version, following is recipes for a meal that is sue to satisfy. First off, we have two meat recipes that will certainly set your mouth in gear for more.

ROSEMARY GRILLED FLANK STEAK 1 cup dry red wine ½ cup olive oil ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons chopped fresh pars-

trodding the boards ...from M-23 sical. It cut to the heart and the head. What I found interesting is how the excellent performances of Bob Edes, Jr. as Herr Schultz and Beverly Trask as Fraulein Schneider slowly shifted the main interest away from Sally Bowles, et. al. and without any overtly obvious “Nazi stage biz” brought the true individual human interest story of the Jews/Nazis into the spotlight. The chemistry between these two actors was so fine and strong it made the rest of the characters just what they really were, mostly colorful, young, entertaining, careless, selfish bohemians. I think this would have pleased Christopher Isherwood. So, great praise to Bob Edes, Jr. and Karen Hebert for stealing a show honestly and on their own merits. My space is limited so let us not forget the principals: Roy Haylock as the nefarious Master of Ceremonies (Emcee). He was as good as the original Joel Grey whom I saw in the 1966 Broadway show. As we all know, no one can play “slippery slimy evil under makeup” as well as our own “f**k-mouth” draglet, Roy Haylock, a man of many talents, except perhaps a dash of self discipline. None-the-less he was magnificent as the MC and I’d like to see him play Richard III some day. Richard Arnold was also a masterful singer and actor in his role as Clifford Bradshaw, playing with grace and charm against Jessie Terrebonne’s vivacious Sally Bowles. Ms. Terrebonne is one of our best top six singers, actors, dancers. Jimmy Murphy was a convincing and sly Nazi recruiter and Karen Hebert, long-legged and beautiful as ever played the conniving survivor German type whore to a T or would that be an X. Gorgeous costumes by Roy Haylock were glittery but lovely and well constructed as was the mostly rented scenery. Scott Sauber’s lighting was well done and Karen Hebert’s choreography was original, brilliant and delightful. Derek Franklin got a big and harmonious sound from his pit orchestra with out one sour note, as usual. This Cabaret ranks among the top three I have seen among the many I have. This was a production of 24k gold.

2 bay leaves 2 green onions, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 2 pounds flank steak Rosemary sprigs ½ lemon Combine first ten ingredients. Reserve 1/3 cup red wine mixture. Place flank steak in a shallow dish or a large zip lock freezer bag. Pour red wine mixture over steak. Cover or seal, and chill two to four hours, turning occasionally. Remove flank steak and discard marinade. Grill, covered with grill lid, over medium-high heat (350-400 degrees) eight to ten minutes on each side or to degree of doneness, brushing with reserved wine mixture using rosemary sprigs. Cut steak diagonally across the grain into thin strips. Squeeze lemon over steak before serving. Yield: eight servings.

MARGARITA PORK TENDERLOIN 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 green onion, minced ½ jalapeno pepper, minced 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons tequila 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon chili powder 2 pork tenderloins (1 to 1 ½ pounds each) Combine first ten ingredients in a shallow dish or a large size zip lock freezer bag. Cut pork diagonally into one inch slices, and add to tequila. Cover or seal and chill one hour, turning occasionally. Remove pork from marinade, discarding marinade. Grill covered with grill lid, over high heat (400 to 500 degrees), or until meat thermometer inserted in thickest portion registers 160 degrees. Yield: 8 servings.

POTATO-STUFFED GRILLED BELL PEPPERS 4 large baking potatoes (3 ½ to 4 pounds), baked and pulp removed to use 4 large red bell peppers, cut in half. stems left on, seeds and membrane removed 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream ½ cup (2 ounces) shredded Gouda cheese ½ cup sliced green onions 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley ¾ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon paprika Place warm potato pulp into a large bowl. Add sour cream and next six ingredients to the pulp, blending well with a fork or a potato masher. Scoop potato mixture evenly into bell pepper halves. Sprinkle with paprika. Grill peppers, with grill cover

over medium-high heat (350-400 degrees) 18 minutes or until peppers are blistered and potato filling bubbles around the edges. Serve immediately. Yield: 8 servings.

GRILLED TOMATOES 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 large tomatoes, cut in half ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper ½ cup chopped fresh basil ½ teaspoon coarse salt Stir together garlic and olive oil. Brush cut sides of tomatoes evenly with garlic mixture, and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt and pepper. Grill tomatoes, cut side up, over medium-high heat about four to five minutes. Do not turn. Sprinkle tomatoes evenly with basil and coarse salt. Yield: eight servings.

GRILLED BALSAMIC-GLAZED PEACHES ½ cup balsamic vinegar 3 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper ½ teaspoon salt

8 firm, ripe peaches, halved ¼ cup vegetable oil Combine first four ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer two to three minutes. Remove pits from peaches; do not peel. Place peaches in a shallow dish. Pour vinegar mixture over peaches, tossing to coat. Let stand ten minutes. Remove peaches from vinegar mixture, reserving two tablespoons. Set remaining vinegar mixture aside. Whisk together reserved two tablespoons vinegar mixture with vegetable oil. Set this vinaigrette aside. Place peach halves, cut side down, on a highly greased grill rack. Grill, covered with grill lid, over medium heat. Baste with remaining vinegar mixture. Grill five minutes on each side. Serve with vinaigrette. Yield: eight servings. There you have it, supper cooked outdoors and served in the coolness of the dining room. Hope you enjoy these recipes. See you next time, this is your Auntie Dee (Donnie Jay) signing off for another issue of Ambush. You can contact me at donniejay@hotmail.com.

carnival/krewe calendar FRI., July 11th... ~6-10pm, Krewe of Mwindo Second Friday Fish Fry, Krewe Den, 5902 Alost St. SUN., July 13th... ~3-7pm, Lords of Leather Luau, Lions Inn FRI., August 8th... ~6-10pm, Krewe of Mwindo Second Friday Fish Fry, Krewe Den, 5902 Alost St. SAT., August 16th... ~7pm, Krewe of Petronius' Dinner and Drag, Progressive Dinner and Drag Show, $30donation, JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields FRI., August 29th... ~10pm-2am, Lords of Leather & Phoenix present Southern Decadence Leather Block Party, 941 Elysian Fields SAT., September 6th... ~8pm, Krewe of Mwindo & In This Together present FISH, Bubbles and Balloons, Laborers Union Hall FRI., September 12th... ~6-10pm, Krewe of Mwindo Second Friday Fish Fry, Krewe Den, 5902 Alost St. SAT., September 20th... ~Lords of Leather Miss Louisiana Leatherette Contest, JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields SAT., October 4th... ~Krewe of Mwindo JSU-SU Football Trip to Jackson, MS FRI., October 10th... ~6-10pm, Krewe of Mwindo Second Friday Fish Fry, Krewe Den, 5902 Alost St. FRI., October 17th... ~Lords of Leather Mr, Louisiana Leather Bear Bust, Phoenix, 941 Elysian Fields SAT., October 18th... ~Lords of Leather Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest, Marigny Theatre, 1030 Marigny St. SAT., October 19th... ~1-4pm, Lords of Leather Mr. Louisiana Leather Celebration Brunch, JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields FRI., November 14th... ~6-10pm, Krewe of Mwindo Second Friday Fish Fry, Krewe Den, 5902 Alost St. SAT., November 22nd... ~7pm, Krewe of Petronius' QBSN(Queer Bar Shopping Network), Live Wreath Auction, Buy Me Now Specials and Holiday Show, JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields SAT., November 29th... ~8pm, Lords of Leather American Band-

stand 2008, JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields FRI., December 12th... ~6-10pm, Krewe of Mwindo Second Friday Fish Fry, Krewe Den, 5902 Alost St. 2009 EVENTS FRI., January 9th... ~6-10pm, Krewe of Mwindo, Second Friday Fish Fry, Krewe Den, 5902 Alost St. SUN., January 11th... ~Lords of Leather Royalty Appreciation Party, site TBA SAT., January 24th... ~8-10pm, Krewe of Queenateenas’ 16th annual King Cake Queen of Gay Mardi Gras Coronation, presenting KCQ XVI, by invitation only, Ambush Headquarters SAT., January 31st... ~Krewe of Mwindo Bal Masque XI, Laborers Union Hall SUN., February 1st... ~7pm, Krewe of Petronius Bal Masque XLVIII, New Orleans Scottish Rite Temple, 619621 Carondelet Street SAT., February 14th... ~8pm, Krewe of Amon Ra Bal Masque XLVI, Alario Center SUN., February 15th... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque VII, Sugar Mill FRI., February 20th... ~10pm-2am, Lords of Leather & Phoenix present Night of the Black Mask: The South’s Oldest Leather Block Party, Phoenix/Eagle, Elysian Fields @ N. Rampart SAT., February 21st... ~12noon, Annual Spanish Town Parade, 5th & Spanish Town Road, Baton Rouge ~8pm, Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLI, Alario Center SUN., February 22nd... ~8pm, Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXVI, Alario Center GayMardiGras.COM MARDI GRAS (FAT TUESDAY), February 24th... ~12noon, 45th Annual Bourbon Street Awards, Oz, Corner of St. Ann at 800 Bourbon ~2pm - 22nd Annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss, led by King Cake Queen XVI of Gay Mardi Gras, Ambush Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St.

GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • MAIN~27 of 48

MAIN~28 of 48 • AmbushMag.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • The One & Only Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-1 of 48

ambush

The Girls: Hostess Miss LSGRA Marsha, Debi & Lea

All Aboard!

Lea Telthorst & Keith Millet

Sharon shows off her & Brenda’s newest venture, Animal Asylum, right across Dumaine Street from Pet Asylum

You can catch Miss Toebe behind the bar at Starlight evenings

Club manager Heath & bartender Chris in the Cabana Bar poolside at The Country Club

Kacey joins Mac for cocktails at Cutter’s

The inviting pool at The Country Club

Manager Dennis & bartender Robert sling ‘em at JohnPaul’s

Some of the Boys: (back) David, Tony, Lance & J; (front) Travis & Toby

700 Club’s Mike wins top bid of $275 for Buckle Auction while Bourbon Pub’s Travis wins top bid of $130 for the Indiana Jones Whip Auction

JohnPaul’s Paul Chiriaco & King Satyricon V Tony Leggio

Laurie is happy to serve you in the club house at The Country Club

LSGRA Treasurer George & Robert

Don & Joseph grabbing a martini at JohnPaul’s

Lords of Leather Captain David Boyd wins top bid on LSGRA Pins & Cowboy Merman Auctions totaling $150 with LSGRA Member-at-large Mike Andrews

JohnPaul’s John Vignone & Gary Nolan

Host Mr. LSGRA Rip, the auctioneer

Miss Eloy hails from Starlight daytime on Saturdays & Sundays

You can catch Darron back at Rawhide after returning from surgery

EXPOSE'-2 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Around the City ~ New Orleans

LSGRA Train Excursion raises $3,555 aboard New Orleans Public Belt Railroad’s Louisiana refurbished 1927 Pullman Parlor Observation Car ~ New Orleans

paparazzi

the pink pastor by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw E-mail: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com www.thebigeasymccblog.blogspot.com

Independent Voices

have a monarch like Canada instead of a President! Instead America then, and us today did what human nature dictates

– struggled to be free, to have one’s own voice, to be able to make one’s own mistakes and speak from a place of truth and honesty without having to look for approval to any overlord. As I write, a group calling itself GAFCON is meeting in Jerusalem to protest any move towards full inclusion of LGBT people in the Anglican Communion (the church grouping that includes The

Episcopal Church and The Church of England, as well as many churches in Africa and Asia). This is a group of Bishops and Archbishops that are boycotting the Lambeth conference (a ten-yearly gathering of all Anglican bishops) and are led by Archbishop Akinola of Nigeria. This man has stated that gay people are ‘lower than [continued on Expose-4]

merican Independence day is generally some thing that Englishmen should avoid saying too much about! As an Englishman myself, it is of course not something I was brought up with – we don’t really have a national day in the United Kingdom, but we do celebrate Armistice day on November 11th as our ‘day of deliverance’ when our island was saved firstly in the First World War by hundreds of thousands of British, American and Commonwealth troops, then again in the Battle of Britain over the skies of southern England and in the whole of the Second World War. Liberation or freedom from attack seldom seems to come without a fight in this world – certainly the LGBT community has had to fight for every inch we have gained, and continue to fight for equality here and across the world. In order for us to be able to live our lives and make our own choices based upon our experience, needs and hopes we seek independence from structures and societies that seek to keep us down and under strict control. If Britain in the eighteenth century had been a different place, one that sought only for the welfare of it’s colonists and their hopes and dreams it is likely you would still

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-3 of 48

hot tails of red stick by Brad Benedict Email: bradhottails@hotmail.com

Splashing Around

t is always great seeing my friends at Splash. It is one big happy family of employees and the big boss is the reason. Cory runs a good operation, and it shows in the way everyone performs their job duties. I just find everyone to be open and friendly and eager to assist. That certainly helps when you are out taking pictures and interviewing people. Karen and I talked for a long time and recalled all the years I have been writing the column. In fact, it all started prior to Argon. What is that time frame? Maybe eighteen to twenty years? Times goes by so quickly, and when you enjoy doing

something, it goes even faster. Karen is an avid supporter of great dance music, and she is quite popular and definitely in her element at Splash. She also does a lot of work with fund-raisers for the Greg T. Bell AIDS Foundation. Greg was such a beautiful human being and was loved by all. I also had a chance to talk to Brad. I arrived at Splash a little early so before the crowds moved in, we discussed his future plans. This is one brilliant little super stud. He got his Masters degree at LSU in mathematics, and he is about to make some firm a hard-working and sincere employee. In the meantime, you can enjoy

the pink pastor ...from EX-3 animals’, he has led the creation of laws in Nigeria that outlaw two gay people meeting together, or anyone publicly defending homosexuality. Allegedly, when he was head of The Christian Association of Nigeria, the same organization was implicated in the massacre of 600 Muslims in the northern Nigerian town of Yelwa. He and the other African bishops on the panel pointedly refused to condemn the rape and torture of LGBT people in their dioceses when asked, and yet Peter Akinola is invited to Lambeth as an honored guest, but Gene Robinson, the gay bishop of New Hampshire is not welcome, and has not been invited. The tragedy is that as the Anglican Communion has changed and become a hostile and aggressive place, it has left many kind and loving church members and clergy feeling alienated and marginalized; the stated position of church leadership undermines their good works and gives them a terrible dilemma. I made the decision to leave ministry in The Anglican Church and seek my freedom. In America the LGBT community has independent newspapers, magazines, TV stations and everything from gay bowling leagues to gay AA meetings so that we can speak authentically and truthfully to our people without oppression or censorship by those that are either ignorant or wish us harm. One religious group that sought an independent voice is Fellowship 2000 headed by Bishop Yvette Flunder. They are having their conference in Dallas at the moment, and, like my own Church (M.C.C.) they have embraced a creed of ‘radical inclusivity’. That means that if you want change, you have to model it yourselves – and you change society from the truthful margins like the civil rights movement did, and let your truthfulness affect and inspire the centre. Merely to stay within the centre requires so much collaboration with the structures that deny and oppose us that independent thought and speech becomes impossible - everything truthful has to be said at a whisper, with a glance over the shoulder to ensure the Bishop isn’t watching. Can you imagine how far Dr. King would have got if he had decided to become a member of the Ku Klux Klan

his vibrant personality and beautiful smile while he is bartending at Splash. He really is a very nice individual, and it shows in the way he smiles, in his expressive eyes, and in the very way he acts. It’s called class, and this is one spectacular example of class in the workplace and beyond. I had a chance also to photograph Ty and Stephen separately. I’ve always thought this was perhaps the most dynamic and handsome duo in old Red Stick. I especially like Ty in blue, but then blue is my favorite color, but on this stud, it is a classic example of how color can enhance the mood and add charm to the person wearing it. On Ty, it is definitely a great combination of good taste, and it brings out the sparkle in his eyes. However, Ty would sparkle in any color coordinated outfit or, for that matter, in his birthday suit. He is really adorable, and he is buffing up quite well. It actually shows more in Stephen, but the Ty stud is not far behind. Put them together, and you really

allons acadiana by Patrick Clinton Email: BlondAtULL@aol.com

here’s not even a week left until the big Fourth of July Celebrations get underway, but thanks to Sound Factory and Back Side, the whole summer has been one great big celebration. And I’m sure things are just going to get wilder as the weather continues to heat up. Downtown Lafayette is setting a new standard for fun and festivities. Sound Factory and Back Side have really gone all out this summer. With their new weekly lineup, there’s something incredible going on seven days a week. They really make sure no matter what night you decide to take a break from your busy life, they’ll not only be open, but have a festive party waiting for you. The week kicks off every Monday and never slows until it all begins again seven days later. in order to ‘change things from within?!’ Bishop Flunder says…. “Stop explaining yourselves. The mainstream will learn from the radical inclusivity of the margins. Look for those who are most marginalized and serve them on purpose. With respect to a common cup at communion, let people with HIV drink first, as others are a greater danger to them. Name who is “everyone” who is welcome; write it in your program. If you make change gradually you just empower the people who don’t want to change. You’ve got to make people grow and expect that they’ll get angry. As long as we placate, the deep pockets will hold hostage your ministry.” …Words as powerful and truthful as this are the fruits of independence. Rev Clinton Crawshaw is the Pastor of the Big Easy Metropolitan Community Church here in New Orleans. The Church meets every Sunday at 5pm at St Matthew’s Church, 1333 S. Carrolton Ave. For more details e-mail Pastor Clinton at pastor@bigeasymcc.com or check the website and catch the latest sermon at www.bigeasymcc.com.

Mondays are a celebration of Monday Madness with all your favorite Happy Hour drink specials. And for those of you who have become accustomed to the weekly Pool Tournament at Back Side, don’t worry about a thing. Your favorite competition hasn’t changed. Tuesdays are Karaoke Night at Sound Factory, hosted by the ever popular Chad Evans. Wednesday are Wild Wednesdays at Sound Factory, with a special theme party every other week. So far, this has been even more spectacular than anticipated. And the party will continue all summer long. So be sure to stop by and get all the details about upcoming theme parties. And if you haven’t been by to check out Wild Wednesdays, now’s the time to do so. It’s becoming a tradition in Lafayette and redefining the middle of the week. Wednesdays this summer are wilder than ever. But the week doesn’t end there. Thursdays are Thirsty Thursday with great drink specials that will top any others in town. Come by and I promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised, along with your wallet. Friday nights are Long Friday with specials on all your favorite longneck beer. Saturdays are Sizzling Saturday at Sound Factory, with drink specials on all your favorite liquor, not just the well drinks, but all your favorite call and premium brands as well. And to end the week, Sundays begin with Sunday Tea at Back Side and continue with Show Night at Sound Factory. What a way to end the week. And it all begins again the next day. With this summer weekly lineup, Sound Factory and Back Side are showing Lafayette that there really can be a celebration every night of the week, and they are single-handedly providing it. With so much already going on in downtown Lafayette, it’s hard to imagine things getting any wilder, but they will. Just make sure you come by Sound Factory

do have an adorable combination of good looks, great charm, and masculine perfection. Another version of what I consider masculine perfection is none other than the outstandingly gorgeous Lance. He isn’t tall, dark, and handsome, but he is definitely tall, sexy, and handsome. His body is toned to perfection, and you know this by just looking at him. Talking with him last week, I could hardly keep my eyes off that tight black shirt which showed off that toned upper half. Of course, Lance is one of those guys who just oozes with charm, and his personality is definitely outstanding which spotlights the way he is able to charm you into submission. I could never tire of looking at this sexy piece of manhood. He is just superb in every way. I mean EVERY way, darlings. I finally had the chance to meet Ben, who does a lot of photographs for the Splash website. He is another charming youngster, full of energy and displaying a great personality. Besides, he is such a cute one that you just want to grab and hug him instantly. He has those sparkling eyes too, and you can read so much into a person’s character by paying attention to the eyes. After all, they are doorways to a person’s soul, so to speak. For Ben, they speak wonders. It was a pleasure meeting him, and I am looking forward to more time with him. I do appreciate the picture he took of Mia Bonet. I didn’t get to see her, and I needed to include her on my picture page so Ben sent me the beautiful and very professional shot of her that you see with my other pictures.

Happy 39-Again

eorge’s was packed last week when everyone came out to celebrate Richard’s latest 39th birthday. It was a festive gathering, and I ran into people I haven’t seen in quite some time. With Luther, Chansley, Guy, and Jared all bartending, it was still all they could do to keep up with the ordering of drinks. I have a feeling there was little liquor left at the end of the night. It was one of the happiest gatherings I’ve seen in a long time. It was great talking to my favorite doctor again. We date back to early Apollo days and the great times we had at Hibiscus Bookstore. In fact, Rick and his other half Tom were part of the feature a reporter did for the local newspaper about the Pride festivities at Magnolia Mound Plantation. If you missed the write-up, you may want to go on-line and check it out or possibly go by and pick up a copy of the edition in which it appeared. Rick has always been one of the sexiest men in Red Stick. He can doctor me any old time he pleases - as long as he lets me do the same for him. Things were so hectic that I didn’t get a chance to talk with Guy or Luther, and I barely got to chat with Richard, but there will be other times. Besides, it was Richard’s night to shine, and he did just that. Around midnight, he accepted his birthday cake from Danielle as we all sang “Happy Birthday” to him. The program with [continued on Expose-7]

and Back Side for the Fourth of July. You’ll see firsthand why South Louisiana is famous for their celebrations. Until next time, have fun and be safe. I’ll see you around town.

EXPOSE'-4 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-5 of 48

Dwayne, Cory & Jeff hail from GAA Top 5 Dance & Show Bar of the Year Finalist Splash

red stick paparazzi Fabulous GAA Top 5 Transgender & Bitch of the Year Finalist Mia Bonet

Chris & GAA Top 5 DJ & Lesbian of the Year Finalist Karen Baker at GAA Top 5 Dance & Show Bar of the Year Finalist Splash

GAA Top 5 Man of the Year Finalist Richard & Lesbian of the Year Finalist Chansley

GAA Top 5 Bitch of the Year Finalist Ronnie (Gia) & Paul at GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist George’s

Ronnie (Gia) & Jared

Danielle at George’s

Splash bar baron & GAA Top 5 Man of the Year Finalist Cory Wise

Splash photographer Ben

Melvin relaxing at Hound Dogs Karaoke stud at George’s Josie at Richard’s birthday bash

GAA Top 5 Man of the Year Finalist Uncle Richard shows a long one

Vince & Jimmy at GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist George’s

Debbie, Damon & Claudette

Guy corners a cute one

Richard gets his birthday cake

EXPOSE'-6 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

photos: Brad Benedict

Jared, Ty & Stephen

Nightlife in the Capital City ~ Baton Rouge

Sexy Luther & GAA Top 5 Entertainer of the Year Finalist Nicole Foxx

GAA Top 5 Bartender of the Year Finalist Lance Young hails from GAA Top 5 Dance & Show Bar of the Year Finalist Splash

hot tails of red stick ...from EX-4 Cody and friends was also a nice addition to a very pleasant evening. I did get the chance to talk with Ronnie for a while – well, briefly anyway - and I actually hung out with Debbie, Claudette, and Josie, my Spanish Town neighbors while there. It was difficult getting over to their part of the bar but I wanted to share some time with them. Usually I only see them while out walking our dogs, but with all the activities going on, there wasn’t that much conversation going on with us. I managed to speak to Walt and a few others before I made my departure for Hound Dogs.

Hound Dogs

ran into Melvin when I stopped in at Hound Dogs. I had seen him at George’s earlier, but it was so crowded that I couldn’t get over to speak with him. It surprised me when I walked into Hound Dogs and saw him there. He had seen me earlier and was pleased to get to relax and have a conversation with me over a cold beer. This is another guy with a great personality, and I absolutely love his laugh. It is full of charm, and you know that you are in the presence of a kind and caring human being. This must show in his work in the hospital field. I’d have to believe that this brings him a lot of respect from those he is able to comfort along the way. Howard was back bartending for James and Kyle. I hadn’t seen him for quite some time, but I usually don’t make it to the bars after midnight. This was a special night that started with photograph-

ing Cory at Splash, continuing with some pictures and a drink at George’s, and ending with a relaxed period at Hound Dogs. I’m usually at Hound Dogs early in the evening when I can see Jeannie, which reminds me that I need to stop by and see if she approved of my birthday write-up for her. I missed seeing Johnny although I suspect he was somewhere in the crowd at George’s. He is usually the bartender I see at Hound Dogs, and I suppose he had the early shift and was relieved by Howard who finished out the night. Johnny is another of those bartenders who really can make you feel welcome by turning on that great smile and exhibiting that great charm that he is famous for.

Pride

he rainbow flag is easily recognized by its colors. The rainbow itself plays a big part in many myths and stories related to gender and sexuality issues in Greek, Native American, African, and other cultures. Use of the rainbow flag by the gay community started in 1978 when it first appeared in the San Francisco Gay and Lesbian Freedom Day Parade. Borrowing symbolism from the hippie movement and the black civil rights groups, a San Francisco artist designed the rainbow flag in response to a need for a symbol that could be used year after year. Even though it has changed over the years, it remains a symbol for a community with the colors representing sexuality, life, healing, sun, nature, art, harmony, and spirit. The flag had eight stripes originally with each color representing a compo-

nent of the community. These were: hot pink for sex, red for life, orange for healing, yellow for the sun, green for nature, turquoise for art, indigo for harmony, and violet for spirit. When they went to have the hand-sewn flags reproduced commercially, they learned that hot pink was not commercially available, so they reduced the number. The artist had originally hand dyed all the colors. After Harvey Milk was assassinated in November of 1978, it was decided to drop the indigo stripe so they could divide the colors evenly along the parade route – three colors on each side of the street. This is the flag as it appears today. Color has always played an important role in the community’s expression of pride. In Victorian England, the color green was associated with homosexuality. The color purple (or more accurately, lavender) became popular as the symbol for pride in the late 1960s, and the catchword post Stonewall was “Purple Pride.” Of course, there was the infamous pink triangle used in Nazi Germany to identify gay males in concentration camps, but now the most colorful of the symbols is the Rainbow Flag itself. Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple represents the diversity of the community. In 1994, a huge 30 foot wide by one mile long rainbow flag was carried by 10,000 people in New York’s Stonewall 25 Parade. The Rainbow Flag celebrated its 25th year as a symbol of gay and lesbian pride in 2003. The artist who created the original flag would like to have the eight colors back because of the importance of the two missing colors. He claims that with the loss of the color pink, the community lost

the symbol for sexual liberation, and the missing turquoise honors Native Americans and the magic of life. He hopes to bring his banner with the eight colors to life once more with a celebration that would be entitled “Sea-to-Sea Diversity.”

Miscellanea

y favorite little army stud has been in Kansas for two weeks, and he almost got blown away in one of those terrible storms that moved through the area. He made it out okay, and then decided to go with other half Phil to the Cindy Lauper concert in Dallas. I have never known anyone like John before. I have been telling him for years that he “kept it in the road all the time.” He is still doing it, and Phil seems to be just the person to do it with. Whether it’s flying out to New Mexico and flitting around Indian territory or attending a concert, they are like two peas in a pod. I congratulate them. I am glad for both of them. It is a rare sight to see two individuals so happy, and it couldn’t have happened to a better couple. I had the chance to meet James at the pool gathering over at Robert and Brandon’s place last week. He arrived with Edward. He seems to be quite intelligent and is another new Spanish Town neighbor. He is quite a nice little stud, nice body, cute smile, and very friendly. We have such a nice little community with few secrets. I can vouch for James’ sleepover last week. While out walking my dog, he came out of this residence and headed home. I always did like sleepovers. Don’t [continued on Expose-17]

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-7 of 48

Lindsey & Teddy at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory Gil & Macky hanging out at Back Side

Bob & John cutting up at Back Side Miss Steven having a cocktail at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Mark and Ben relaxing at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Ryan as happy as ever at Back Side

acadiana

paparazzi

Kevin & Robbie partying at Back Side

Chris showing it off at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Jeremy & Tyler hanging out at Back Side

Brant & Mariah celebrating Wild Wednesday at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Troy still can’t get the hang of pool at Back Side

Nat looking fabulous at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Buster playing pool at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Jeff making an appearance at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Touria with her pool stick at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

Chris relaxing with a cocktail at Back Side

Troy chilling at Back Side

Kiana & Kashawna at Sound Factory’s White Party

EXPOSE'-8 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

photos: Patrick Clinton

Brodie is all smiles at Back Side

Sound Factory & Back Side ~ Lafayette, Louisiana

The beginning of the White Party at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Sound Factory

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-9 of 48

ambush

paparazzi

Miss Gay Pride 2007 Passion Armani Cassidine crowns Miss Gay Pride 2008 Tatiana at the Parade

Lords of Leather Pres. Gary & Capt. David preside over the krewe’s Daddy Contest at the Phoenix

Lester Perkins & Raven Kennedy flank b-day girl Eva Las Vegas at JohnPaul’s Pride Co-Chair Regina Adams & GAA Top 5 Fly Fashion Victim Award Finalist Pat McCardle

Lord Consort XXV Doug & Lord Alan cocktailin’ at GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist Lafitte’s

Regina Adams, b-day girl Eva Las Vegas & Zaa Zaa DeLahore at JohnPaul’s Blush Wednesdays at Le Phare

Pride Co-Chair Miss Dee & Rikki at the Mr. & Miss Gay Pride Pageant hosted at GAA Top 5 Dance & Show Bar of the Year Finalist Parade

Jacob, DJ Reed Tribou & Nick at Le Phare’s Blush Wednesdays

Persana’s Top Video Show at Le Phare

C&B Enterprises’ John & partner Ronald flank Eva for her 70th b-day blowout

GAA Gala Guest MC Savanna DeLorean & GAA Board’s Teryl-Lynn Foxx at the Mr. & Miss Gay Pride Pageant

Jennifer, Eva & Melissa celebrate at Eva’s 70th b-day

Former Miss Gay Pride Tami Tarmac is one of this year’s emcees

Phoenix manager Clint wins the Lords of Leather Daddy Contest

Lord King XXV Michael & Alan join the Lords of Leather Daddy Beer Bust at the Phoenix

Tim & Ed do the honors at the Lords of Leather Beer Bust & Daddy Contest

Lords of Leather Daddy contestants Alan, Steven & Daddy Don

EXPOSE'-10 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Cocktails, Lace & Leather ~ New Orleans

Wood Enterprises’ Gary joins SDGM XXXV Paloma at Lafitte’s following this year’s SD poster shoot

GAA Top 5 Bartender of the Year Finalist Aletha joins GAA Top 5 Cheridon Comedy Award Finalist Eva Las Vegas for her 70th b-day blowout at JohnPaul’s

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-11 of 48

BLU, 960 Spring St., 877.1221 THE HERETIC, 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd., 325.3061 WET BAR, 960 Spring St., NW, 745.9494 Alexandria, LA [318] UNIQUE, 3217 Industrial St., 448.0555 Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798 HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Road, 242.9491, splashbr.com Lafayette, LA [337] BACK SIDE, 209 Jefferson St., 269.0430 THE SOUND FACTORY, 209 Jefferson St., 269.6011 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457

attorneys New Orleans, LA [504] BEACH LAW FIRM, 525.2999

bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900, gabrielsdowntown.com VISIONS TWIST, 266 Dauphin St., 431.9002, visions-mobile.com Key West, FL [305] BOURBON STREET PUB, 724 Duval CLUB INTERNATIONAL, 900 Simonton St. DONNIE'S CLUB 422, 422 Appelrouth Lane 801 BOURBON BAR, 801 Duval St., 294.4737 Miami/South Beach, FL [305] PALACE FOOD BAR, 1200 Ocean Dr., 531.7234 TWIST, 1057 Washington Ave., 538.9478, www.twistsobe.com Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491 THE ROUNDUP, 706 E. Gregory St., 433.8482

Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, www.4seasonsno.com CLUB TRIBUTE, 3202 N. Arnoult Rd., 455.1311, myspace.com/clubtribute MASQUERADES LOUNGE, 3505 Division St., 888.4101 SANCTUARY, 2301 N. Causeway Blvd., 837.7979 New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829

Atlanta, GA [404] BLAKE'S ON THE PARK, 227 10th St., NE, 873.5921

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

Corpus Christi, TX [361]

600

RAMPART

500 TOULOUSE

BURGUNDY

ROYAL

ST. LOUIS

GET HAPPY!, 526 S. Staples, 881.8910 DAUPHINE

400

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900 ST. PHILIP

1000 URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300

classifieds

ESPLANADE

1800 19 EL YS IA N

M AR IG NY

23 ES TR R A CH

24 FR

EN 2 0 0 0 C 2 1 HM 0 0 EN

FI EL D S

Galveston, TX [409] 3rd Coast Beach Bar, 3102 Seawall Blvd., 765.6911, 3rdCoastBar.COM Robert’s Lafitte, 2501 Avenue Q, 765.9092 Houston, TX [713] Brazos River Bottom, BRB, 2400 Brazos St., 528.9192 Chances, G-Spot, New Barn, 1100 Westheimer Rd. 523.7217 EJ’s, 2517 Ralph St., 527.9071 J.R.’s with the Santa Fe, 808 Pacific St., 521.2519 Keys West, 817 West Dallas St., 571.7870 Mary’s, 1022 Wetheimer, 527.9669 Montrose Mining Company, 805 Pacifc St., 529.7488 Ripcord, 715 Fairview St., 521-2792 Rich’s Houston, 2401 San Jacinto, 759.9606 San Antonio, TX [210] HEAT, 1500 North Main Ave., 227.2600, HEATSA@aol.com South Padre Island, TX [956] UPPER DECK HOTEL & BAR, 120 E. Atol St., 761.5953

body rubs New Orleans, LA [504] HOT, MASCULINE GUY available 24/7 for sensational body rubs, etc. 2nd guy also available. In/Out/Hotel Appointments. 6'0 181#, dark hair, magic hands. Call Charlie 430.7413 [is1408]

bookstores RT PA M RA

K L 2 6 0 LIN YA 0

RO LO UI SA

Shreveport, LA [318] KORNER LOUNGE, 800 Louisiana, 71101; 222.9796 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921 Austin, TX [512] 'BOUT TIME, 9601 N. IH-35, 832.5339 CHAIN DRIVE, 504 Willow St., 480.9017 CHARLIE'S, 1301 Lavaca St., 474.6481 OILCAN HARRY'S, 211 W. 4th, 320.8823 RAINBOW CATTLE COMPANY, 305 W. 5th St., 472.5288 RAIN ON 4TH, 217- B West 4th St., 494.1150

CANAL STREET

COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 COWPOKES, 2240 St. Claude, 947.0505 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 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888 LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450 NINTH CIRCLE AT CONGO SQUARE, 700 N. Rampart, 524.7654 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, ozneworleans. com PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, phoenixbar.com RAWHIDE 2010, 740 Burgundy St., 525.8106, Rawhide2010.COM SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156 STARLIGHT BY THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 561.8939, starlightbythepark.com VOODOO, 817 N. Rampart St., 304.1568

E IN PH U A D

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

Birmingham, AL [205] ALABAMA BOOKS, 801 Third Ave., 322.7823 BIRMINGHAM ADULT BOOKS, 7610 First Ave. North, 836.1580

New Orleans, LA [504] AIRLINE ADULT BOOKS, 1404 26th St., Kenner, LA 70062; 468.2931 CHARTRES ST. CONXXXION, 107 Chartres St., 586.8006 FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600

Frenchmen St., 947.3700 PARADISE ADULT VIDEO, 41 W. 24th St., Kenner, LA 70065; 461.0000 PARADISE #2 IN ELMWOOD, 5608 Heebe, Harahan, LA, 733.7780 SLIDELL ADULT SUPERSTORE, Slidell, LA, 985.646.2616 Knoxville, TN [865] TOWN & COUNTRY BOOK DEN, 6927 Clinton Hwy., 947.9153 WEST KNOX NEWS, 5011 Kingston Pike, 588.1972

Austin, TX [512] ADULT VIDEO MEGAPLEXXX, 7111South I-35, 442.5430,www.sexysite.com

cable shows New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 78

casinos New Orleans, LA [504] HARRAHS NEW ORLEANS, Canal at the River, 800.HARRAHS

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is1608]

circuit/events Aug. 27-Sept. 1, 2008, Official Southern Decadence 37-A Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 135,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 23-26, 2008, Halloween 25: Silver Party, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 28, 2008-Jan. 1, 2009, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.COM Feb. 19-24, 2009, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush & Queen Fashions, GayEasterParade.COM May 22-25, 2009, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM June 4-7, 2009, One Mighty Weekend, Gay Day Weekend at Disney sponsored by Ambush, OneMightyWeekend.COM

construction New Orleans, LA [504] HISTORIC RENOVATIONS, 432.3786, Jim 344.4664

Scott

counseling Spiritual Counseling for Gays and Lesbiansyou don’t have to change! Doubting your relationship with God? Need someone to talk to? Phone sessions with trained professional, sliding scale rates. L G B Ts p i r i t u a l d i r e c t o r @ g m a i l . c o m [is1408]

New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, M.Ed., Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000 WILLIAM C. AUSTIN, LCSW, Individual & Family Therapy, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LA Lic # 8042, 1532 Ursulines Ave., 504.586.7400, 225.571.5964 [is2108]

EXPOSE'-12 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-13 of 48

employment

laundries

New Orleans, LA [504] HELP WANTED-Experienced line cooks and prep cooks, management skills a plus. Apply 2-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri. at Bywater Restarant, Deli & BBQ, 3162. Dauphine St.

New Orleans, LA [504] RALPH'S QUARTER LAUNDERETTE & DRY CLEANING, 1101 Bourbon St., 522.9274 WASHING WELL LaunDRYteria since 1949, City Wide Pick-up, Fluff Dry or Finished, 1 Hour Service, 841 Bourbon St., 523.9955 or 525.3983 [is1308]

florists Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381

framing New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAME, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726

galleries New Orleans, LA [504] ARTICHOKE GALLERY, 912 Decatur St., 636.2004, www.ArtichokeGallery.COM FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700

gardening/landscaping New Orleans, LA [504] AMERICAN AQUATIC GARDENS, 621 Elysian Fields, 944.0410

guides America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, ambushmag.com; email: info@ ambushmag.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, webmaster@gaybars.com United States/Canada GAYELLOW PAGES: Informing the US/ Canada LGBTG Community since 1973. Separate sections for Women and Ethnic/Multicultural focus. PO Box 533, NY, NY 10014-0533; 212.674.0120, http://gayellowpages.com gayellowpages@earthlink.net. Sold at Alternatives/New Orleans, LA

groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416 VERTI MART, 1201 Royal St., 525.4767

hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE, 906 Bourbon St., 527.5100 HEAD QUARTERS HAIR SALON, 900 Dauphine St., 522.2666 MICKEY NOLAN'S SALON, 815 Toulouse St., 587.7782 SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur St., 565.5555

lodging/accommodations Birmingham, AL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Mobile, AL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Ft. Lauderdale, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Ft. Walton Beach, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayPensacola.COM Key West, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayKeyWest.COM Miami/South Beach, FL [305] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GaySouthBeach.COM Orlando, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Pensacola, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayPensacola.COM Atlanta, GA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAtlanta.COM Baton Rouge, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayBatonRouge.BIZ Lafayette, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, AmbushMag.COM Lake Charles, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, AmbushMag.COM New Orleans [504] 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, theburgundy.com, Email 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 halfopen 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. CORNSTALK HOTEL, 915 Royal St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.523.1515, FAX: 504.522.5558, Toll Free: 800.759.6112, CornstalkHotel.COM, E-mail us at Reservations@CornstalkHotel.COM. The Cornstalk Hotel, once a private home, in the heart of the French Quarter, one block from Bourbon, but quieter, now welcomes visitors to enjoy its hospitality and Victorian charm. CREOLE INN, 2471 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70117, PHONE: 504.948.3230, FAX: 504.948.4410, CreoleInn.COM, E-mail us at CreoleInn@aol.com. In the Gay/Lesbian Marigny adjacent to French Quarter, Frenchmen Street

& Country Club; private baths, garden, wireless Internet, AC, cable TV/VCR, Continental breakfast. Gay operated; mention AMBUSH for 10% discount. INN THE QUARTER, French Quarter, New Orleans, 70116, PHONE: 504.527.5360, Toll Free: 800.570.3085, InnTheQuarter.COM, E-mail us at Info@InnTheQuarter.COM. Over 20 guest rooms, suites and apartments in the French Quarter. All accomnmodations are within a few short blocks of Lafitte’s, Bourbon Pub, Oz, Good Friends, Rawhide and all the other “HOT” spots. Our properties offer private entrances, tropical courtyards, air conditioning, private bathrooms, televisions, and direct dial phones with free local calls. Some have additional features such as balconies, jacuzzi tubs, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, full kitchens, high-speed Internet access and free off-street parking. Absolutely all are clean and safe. Regular rates starting at $79/nt. Special Event rates starting at $119/nt. Weekly and monthly discounts available. MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/ cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking. BON MAISON GUEST HOUSE, 835 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.561.8498 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.524.3621 Shreveport, LA DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, AmbushMag.COM Biloxi, MS DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Hattiesburg, MS DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Jackson, MS DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Natchez, MS [601] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Austin, TX [512] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAustin.NET Beaumont, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayAmerica.COM Dallas, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayDallas.COM Galveston Island, TX [409] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayTexas.NET Houston, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayHouston.COM San Antonio, TX DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayTexas.NET South Padre Island, TX [956] DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, HOTELS, CARS, GayTexas.NET UPPER DECK HOTEL & BAR, PO Box 2309, 120 E. Atol St., 78597; 761.5953, E-mail: gaypadre@upperdeckhotel.com, upperdeckhotel.com

massage New Orleans, LA [504] FRENCH QUARTER MASSAGE BY MIKE - Treat Yourself!” - Professional, Private & Personal. Deep Tissue & Swedish Massages available. Phone 598.3237. www.FrenchQuarterMassage.COM. E-mail: fqmassage@cox.net. License #LA2687 [is1608] PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY By Patrick LMT - Outcall or Uptown Studio. Safe neighborhood comfortable studio. Towels available for draping, Non-Sexual, 717.2577, www. n e w o r l e a n s . a m a z i n g h a n d s . u s Discounts for: Friends of Dorothy, Students,

Artists, Service Industry, License #LA4005 [is1408]

media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: info@ ambushmag.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8047, ambushonline.com, email: info@ambushonline.com

models/escorts New Orleans, LA [504] MIKEY-HOT, HANDSOME, HARD-BODIED MUSCLE STUD with no attitude, very friendly. 35, 5'10", 175#, USDA Prime! In/out/hotels, 24/ 7. Playgirl, Inches & Freshmen Magazine model. 504.756.9443 [is1408] HANDSOME, MASCULINE GUY available 24/7 for companionship, dinner, etc. 6'0", 182#, brn/brn, magic hands, gives fabulous body rubs also. In/Out/Hotels. Charlie @ 430.7413 [is1408]

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANAARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATEARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272

EXPOSE'-14 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-15 of 48

OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org 1850 HOUSE, 523 St. Ann, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm GALLIER HOUSE, 1132 Royal, 523.6722, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm GERMAINEWELLSMARDIGRASMUSEUM, 2nd Floor Arnaud's, 819 Bienville HERMANN-GRIMA HISTORIC HOUSE, 820 St. Louis, 525.5661, Mon-Fri 10am-3:30pm HISTORICAL PHARMACY MUSEUM, 514 Chartres, 524.9077, Daily 10am-5:30pm HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, 533 Royal, 523.4662, Tues-Sat 10am-4:45pm LONGUE VUE HOUSE AND GARDENS, 7 Bamboo Rd, Metairie, 488.5488, Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEECONTIHISTORICALWAXMUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERNART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm

music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St.

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc. Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org LEWIS HUMPHREY’S FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 387.9798

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am,

Bible Study Wednesday, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org

7pm,

MYSTIC KREWE OF ROYALTY, PO Box 66571, 70896; 926.1698 PFLAG Baton Rouge, Harold L. Truax, 33370 Percy Young Rd., Walker, LA 70785; 225.218.8320, 225.288.2522 Lafayette, LA [337] ACADIANA CARES [Concern for AIDS Relief, Education, and Support], PO Box 386, Lafayette, LA 70502; 203 W. 3rd St., 70501; 233.2437, FAX: 235.4178; 800.354.2437 KREWE OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504] ACADIANA RAINBOW SOCIETY OF THE DEAF, PO Box 57166, 70157; 889.0138 (TDD) AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 779.1178 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday Worship at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, p a s t o r @ b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , www.bigeasymcc.com BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 CAVALIERS MOTORCYCLE CLUB: Gay motocycle group sponsors monthly day rides and other riding events in New Orleans area. Visit www.cavaliersmc.comc or call 782.5625 or e-mail info@cavaliersmc.com. CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG COMING OUT SUPPORT GROUP, meets 1st Wed. of each month, 7:30-9pm, Info: Liz 482.4012; Lesbian & Gay Community Center, 2114 Decatur St., 70116; 945.1103 COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org DRAMA! [A Gay & Lesbian Arts Organization], PO Box 52565, 70152; 948.9924, DramaNO.org, DRAMA@DramaNO.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality@aol.com FOUNDATION FOR MACRO BIOTIC WAY, enjoy-life.com GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, E-mail: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons. Monthly meetings, socials and political activism. Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 70156-6836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131. The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for

persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation. IN THIS TOGETHER, HIV/AIDS Case Management, 1661 Canal Street, Suite 3107, 70112; 962.3245, is www.inthistogetherinc.org, itt@accesscom.net KOCKTAIL BUNCH BOWLING LEAGUE, Contact Glenn Culp, 504.861.0233 KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, cetubby@cox.net, KreweOfArmeinius.ORG KREWE OF AMON RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 71665, 70172, Pres. Arthur Alarcon 451.9507, Capt. Bill McCarthy 430.6695, Sec. Mae Falgout 484.6045, http://kreweofpetronius.tripod.com KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/ KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. Email: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117, LambdaCenter.NET, info@lambdacenter.net, LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF NEW ORLEANS, 234 Loyola, Suite 421, 70112; 581.9106 LESBIAN & GAY COMMUNITY CENTER OF NEW ORLEANS, 2114 Decatur St., 701162013; 945.1103, Fax 945.1102, Email: info@lgccno.net LORDS OF LEATHER, P.O. Box 741089, New Orleans, LA 70174, LordsOfLeather.COM LOUISIANA STATE GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (LSGRA), 915.3339, lance@lsgra.com, LSGRA.COM MCLNO HOP Clinic, 136 S. Roman Street, 4th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112; Appts.: 504.903.6959, www.hopclinic.org METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS, Sunday Friendship Hour 4:15pm, Worship/Celebration, 5pm at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 Carrollton Ave. at Willow; Mailing Address: PO Box 71024, 70172; 945.5390, www.mccgno.com MYSTIC KNIGHTS OF ADONIS, 236.4530, Adonis-TLC.COM, MYSTIC KREWE OF SATYRICON, 1021 Gov. Nicholls St., 70116, 525.4498, MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM NEW ORLEANS BEAR & BEAR TRAPPER SOCIAL CLUB, PO Box 740894, 70174-0894; 529.6975, www.neworleansbears.com NEW ORLEANS GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 948.6884, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com NEW ORLEANS WOMEN’S MUSIC COLLECTIVE, 2903 Jefferson Ave., 70115; Ann 838.7918, Sydney 833.2834 NO/AIDS TASK FORCE, 2601 Tulane Ave., Suite 500, 70119; 821.2601; NOAIDSTaskForce.COM N'R Peace, 3201 Gen. DeGaulle Dr., Suite 201, 70114, 364.1950 MOC/NO [Men of Color/New Orleans], 482.5341 OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, info@gayeasterparade.com, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM PEOPLE OF SUBSTANCE, INC. (POS), 7210 Arbor Dr., 70126, 244.1920, posnola.com PFLAG/NO [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays/ New Orleans], PO Box 15515, 70175; 895.3936, 392.0001, pflagno.org,

info@pflagno.org PRIDEFEST NEW ORLEANS, presented by New Orleans Alliance of Pride, 1000 Bourbon St., Box 365, New Orleans, LA 70116; pridefestneworleans@yahoo.com, www.nolapridefest.org PROJECT LAZARUS, A Residence for PWAs, PO Box 3906, 70177-3906; 949.3609 REGIONALAIDS INTERFAITH NETWORK [RAIN], 523.3755 TAU HOUSE MINISTRIES, 1029 Governor Nicholls, 70116, roddyssnd@aol.com, 529.3569. Mass on Sunday 4:15pm; Vespers on Monday, Wednesday, Friday 6pm. Everyone is welcome! TO DO PRODUCTIONS, 948.9608, www.todoproductions.org VOLLEYBALL NEW ORLEANS, PO Box 13306, 70185-3306; volleyballneworleans.com, postmaster@volleyballneworleans.com WILLIAM J. FANNING FOUNDATION [Buzzy’s Boys & Girls], 2301 Chartres, 70117; 943.8929 Shreveport, LA [318] KREWE OF APOLLO/SHREVEPORT, PO Box 4918, 71134 PHILADELPHIA CENTER, PO Box 44454, 71134-4454; 222.6633 YWCAAIDS MINORITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 700 Pierre Ave., 71103; 226.8717 Austin, TX [512] PROJECT TRANSITIONS, PO Box 4826, 78765; 454.8646, projecttransitions.org, AIDShous ing@projecttransitions.org, dedicated to serving people with AIDS by providing hospice, housing and support in a compassionate and caring environment.

TEXAS GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION (TGRA) Austin chapter, www.Austintgra.org Dallas, TX [214] KREWE OF APOLLO-DALLAS, KreweofApollo-Dallas.com Houston, TX [713] PRIDE COMMITTEE OF HOUSTON, PO Box 66071, 77266-6071; 529.6979, Fax 529.6929, info@pridehouston.org, pride houston.org

mail New Orleans, LA [504] MARIGNY MAIL, 2401 Burgundy, 948.7401

pets CHI-WA-WA GA-GA, 37 French Market Place, 70116; 581.4242; chiwawagaga.com FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 510 Dumaine St., 274.0810

pharmacy New Orleans, LA [504] MUMFREY'S PHARMACY, 1021 W. Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA 70043, 504.279.6312

photography New Orleans, LA [504] GRAHAM/STUDIO ONE NEW ORLEANS, by appointment, grahamstudioone.com, cafepress.com/grahamimages

printers New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812

real estate New Orleans, LA [504] LATTER & BLUM, Agent Mary Lind, 948.3011, 539.9742, 581.2020 PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Brett A. Rector, Cell: 453.2277, Office: 861.6400, brettinla@aol.com

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] Buffa's, 1001 Esplanade at Burgundy, 949.0038

EXPOSE'-16 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Bywater Restaurant, Deli & BBQ,3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 Cafe Amelie, 912 Royal St., 412.8965 Clover Grill, 900 Bourbon St., 598.1010, CloverGrill.COM Country Club Restaurant, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030 La Peniche, 1940 Dauphine St., 943.1460 Magazine Perks, 4332 Magazine, 899.2911, MagazinePerks.COM Marigny Perks, 2401 Burgundy, 948.7401, MarignyPerks.COM Meauxbar Bistro, 942 N. Rampart St., 569.9979, MeauxBar.COM Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Petunias, A Restaurant, Cajun, Creole, Crepes, Cocktails, 817 St. Louis, 70112; 522.6440 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416 Riche, Fulton Street at Poydras inside Harrah's Hotel, 533.6117 Tomatillo's Restaurant, 437 Esplanade Ave., 945.9997

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] ALTERNATIVES, 907 Bourbon St., 70116; 524.5222 BEAR NECESSITIES, 940 Decatur, 598.2134, BearsAndHares.COM BOURBON-STRIP TEASE, 205 Bourbon St., 70130; 581.6633, bourbontease.com THE HERB IMPORT COMPANY, 711 St. Peter [in French Quarter], 525.4372; 5055 Canal St. [near City Park Ave.], 488.4889 PANDA BEAR, 415 Bourbon St., 529.8064 RAB DAB CLOTHING AND GIFTS, 918 Royal St., 525.6662 SERENDIPITOUS MASKS, 831 Decatur St., 522.9158 SECOND SKIN LEATHER, 521 St. Philip St., 561.8167 QUEEN FASHIONS.COM, queenfashions.com, exoticfashionmall.com WICKED ORLEANS, 1201 Decatur, 529.4384, WickedOrleans.COM

Austin, TX [512] GOMI, 233 W. 2nd St., 442.9977, gomikitti.com TAPELENDERS VIDEO/OUTLINES MENSWEAR AUSTIN, 1114 West 5th St., 472.0844, www.tapelenders.com

spas Ft. Lauderdale, FL [954] CLUB FT. LAUDERDALE, 400 W. Broward

hot tails of red stick ...from EX-7 you? I keep chit-chatting with TTT by email, but I seldom see him anymore. In fact, I really need to get him another set of knee pads. It’s been a while, and I fear he may have worn out the last pair I gave him. The last time I saw him in person was at John and Phil’s party. He is just a busy boy - in more ways than one. My BC buddy is another who I seldom see, but he calls periodically. In fact, it was really funny when he described his latest

Ad ver tise Adv TOD AY ODA AmbushMag.COM

504.522.8049 info@ambushmag.com

Blvd., 525.3344, www.the-clubs.com Atlanta, GA [404] FLEX ATLANTA, 76 Fourth St., 815.0456 New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com FLEX NEW ORLEANS, 700 Baronne St., 598.FLEX [3539] SPA ATLANTIS PROFESSIONAL SPA & SALON, 740 Gravier St., 566.8088, SpaAtlantis.NET Austin, TX [512] MIDTOWNE SPA, 5815 Airport Blvd., 302.9696 Dallas, TX [214] CLUB DALLAS, 2616 Swiss Ave., 821.1990, www.the-clubs.com MIDTOWNE SPA, 2509 Pacific Ave., 821.8989 Houston, TX [713] CLUB HOUSTON, 2205 Fannin St., 659.4998, www.the-clubs.com MIDTOWNE SPA, 3100 Fannin St., 522.2379

tanning New Orleans, LA [504] PLANET BEACH, 301 Burgundy, 525.8266

tattoos/piercings New Orleans, LA [504] AART ACCENT TATTOO & PIERCING, 1041 N. Rampart in French Quarter, 581.9812

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] LE PETIT THEATRE DU VIEUX CARE, 616 St. Peter, 522.2081 MARIGNY THEATRE, 1030 Marigny St., 947.0505

websites CRESCENT CITY, CrescentCity.COM GAY AMERICA, GayAmerica.COM GAY AUSTIN, GayAustin.NET GAY BARS, GayBars.COM GAY PENSACOLA, GayPensacola.COM OFFICIAL GAY EASTER PARADE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayEasterParade.COM OFFICIAL GAY MARDI GRAS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM OFFICIAL GAY NEW ORLEANS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, GayNewOrleans.COM OFFICIAL SOUTHERN DECADENCE, 828A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 504.522.8049, SouthernDecadence.COM

encounter. Being an ambulance person, he is always getting strange calls, and the one over the weekend was certainly another of his unusual encounters. It was the body of this young woman in a vacant lot that got him into a strange situation. After finding her alive and getting her all fixed up and breathing properly (with a strong liquor breath), he had the shared experience in the emergency room of seeing tape removed from the unmentionable area. Well, you have to know where I’m going with this, don’t you? There was at least nine inches of manhood crammed up the butt crack. This darling was out hitting the streets, and there was no explanation of how she ended up prone in the vacant lot except for the fact that she had a little too much to drink. By the way, John, did you do mouth to mouth first or just shake her a little? I worked my way through college as a surgical technician, and I never came across anything like that. However, there were a few strange cases I experienced. Does a coke bottle suctioned tightly in a woman’s unmentionable body part count?

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-17 of 48

one last song

mobile

paparazzi

Rain

e sat early on this Sunday morning listening to the thunder in the distance and watching the rain fall to the ground. He could see the lightening in the not to far off distance flashing every few seconds and knew that the thunder storm was moving in this general direction. He felt the humidity seeping in through the windows, as they were still not fixed tightly from that damn unwelcome visitor Katrina, which had hit this area hard almost three years ago. In this neighborhood he had to move into after losing almost all of his earthly belongings, the destruction left in the wake of that visitor was still evident. On some of the streets just a block or two away in any direction, houses stood with their front doors agape like moaning mouths and windows busted out, like unseeing eyes crying for their occupants to return. They sat there among others that were being or had been restored like discarded orphans of the storm. You could almost hear them thinking, wondering; where are my parents, my creators? Where are the people who had cared for me so lovingly in the past? Why have I been left here discarded after so many years, hadn’t I sheltered them from so much bad times in the past. Had I not done my job? Paint fading, peeling from their facade, like a demented drag queen that had stayed out all night after a performance in the same make-up and clothing that she had looked so splendid in the night before. Still believing in her own mind that the false beauty she had painted upon her face the night before still shone radiantly. They were very much alike this neglected house and the stoned queen. Both had started out beautiful, radiant, and loved, both ended up neglected and falling into ruin. All either one of them needed in reality was someone to take charge of them, instill some self worth, and restore them. Someone with the ability that they themselves do not posses and are not capable of attaining, unfortunately for them. As he stared out from the space under the outside stairwell of the deserted house, the young man could see the dark clouds gathering nearer. He could smell the coming rain and instantly knew it was going to be a big one. He was young, maybe fifteen or sixteen, not much older than that, but to look at him you would not have known it, he was very slight in build, his long red hair framing his gaunt face. It looked more like a ten year old, a preteen than a teenager. He pulled his old duffle bag closer in towards him, he didn’t want to get it wet, his few belonging inside were damp enough as it was. He was sure that the duffle bag, which had seen better days, at one time was water proof but it was no longer able to ward off the elements. To look at him one would most likely wonder why such a child was doing on the streets looking so unkempt, truth be known he knew the streets only to well, he had

been surviving on them now for three years. It wasn’t always like this for him; he had grown up in a rather middle class home, with a caring father and a loving mother. It was modest, nothing elaborate but it was home, safe secure and comfortable. It was that is, until his mother started using, then everything went to hell. His memory had blotted most of it out, the battles that occurred between his parents, the yelling, the screaming and then finally the physical fights. Then one day his father just disappeared, no good-bye, no kiss my ass, nothing; he just never came home again, like he had just disappeared off the face of the earth. After that his mother just seemed to get worse by the day, moving in one boyfriend after another and when they got tired of her or found a better source for their scores, they like his dad, just got lost. He stopped trying to even remember their names, let alone what they looked like. Then one day he came home from school and his mother wasn’t at home, so he made himself some dinner and went on to do his homework and go to sleep. The next morning he got up and readied himself for school, but she had not come home yet, so he packed a lunch and went on his way. That day he went about business as usual, knowing that when he returned home she would be there, but again she wasn’t, and after almost a week passed and there was no sign of her, he was sick with worry, but calling the police never occurred to him, he figured that like his dad, she had just given up and went on her way. It wasn’t but a few days later that the landlord came by looking for the rent; he lied and told the man that his mom had gone shopping, so the man told him that he would come back in an hour or so. Knowing that his mom would not return by then, he tearfully packed a few of his belongings and having no idea where he was going he set out to make his own way in the world. The streets are not kind to these children, who have no place to go, but wander aimlessly through the streets day and night, we have all seen them. Sometimes traveling alone like this boy was or sometimes traveling in small packs, they beg for change on the streets and sometimes we may offer up a few coins, but not always. To many times we turn our heads away from their outstretched hands and scowl in disgust and mumble to ourselves, that we have to work for our monies and they should do the same. Just today the man staring out of his comfortable apartment window watching the approaching storm had passed by this young man and thought such thoughts, he had not reached into his pocket and maybe given this wayward child some coins to possibly buy something to eat, but shook his head and turned away heading for the comfort and security of his apartment, to watch the approaching storm on this Sunday morning.

JT LaCove (center) & the girls hanging at B-Bob’s: Krystal Klear, Veletcra Destiny, & Tara LaCove

Venus & DJ Dewight at B’Bob’s Donna Summer’s “Crayons” Release Party

Je, Tim, Carey & Leon at the Robyn Release Party hosted by B-Bob’s Ronald & Flo celebrating their birthdays Gabriel’s Foam Party

Ryan, DJ Chromatic, door guy Leon, Jack & bartender join Anna Rexia’s Toga Party at B-Bob’s

As fate would have it as he was staring out of his window, when a small figure, toting a duffle bag almost as large as he was walked by on the sidewalk below. He did not recognize the boy as the one he had turned away from, but just stared at him, wondering where this child was going. He thought about it but did not move a muscle, it really was none of his business, and to go out and question the kid about it just might lead to speculation by his neighbors as to what he was up to. After all everyone in the neighborhood knew the man, and knew he was gay. They respected him to his face and knew his name, spoke to him on the street, had coffee with him in the morning at the café down on the corner, but he was sure that they talked about him in private and just wondered about him more than they let on. So rather than interfering he sat listening to the thunder and watching the lightening flash. The kid was exhausted, he had been walking for almost a day now, he was weary and just wanted to lay down somewhere to catch a nap and then go on his lonely way. Having spoken to some other lost kids in the city square, they had told him of a place he could go at nightfall to possibly find a bed, a shower and some food, but had warned him that they turned

Gabriel’s Foam Party

a lot of people away. It was hours away from the time to go there, and he needed rest, so he was looking for an abandoned building on a quiet street for just that purpose when he came upon the discarded house, it’s doors wide open and windows smashed out. He stared at it for a moment or two to see if there were any signs of life around, but only saw a stray cat lunge from one of its windows. It had an ominous look about it and for some reason he didn’t want to go in. He carefully walked around back, eyeing the houses around it to see if anyone was watching, but no one was. There were stairs in back which shielded the view from most angles, so he spread an old army blanket from the duffle bag on the ground under it, lay down and drifted off to sleep. He wasn't sure how long he had slept, but when he awoke he could feel the storm was almost upon him, and then it happened, the wind gusted and the rain began to pelt down, soaking everything even under the stairs; he gathered his things and darted into the back door of the deserted dwelling. It was dirty, damp and musty inside, but at least it was dry and warm. He didn’t dare explore much, for it [continued on Expose-20]

EXPOSE'-18 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Togas, Foam & Celebs ~ Mobile, Alabama

by Donnie "Jager" Jay, SDGM XXXII E-mail: donniejay@hotmail.com

GayAustin.Net • GayHouston.COM • GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • July 1-14, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-19 of 48

Know AIDS? NO/AIDS! by: Jessica Gerson, CAN Volunteer Coordinator, jessicag@noaidstf.org n the early eighties, only a few short years after the first case of AIDS appeared, it was devastating susceptible populations around the country. Here in New Orleans, a small group of dedicated individuals saw what this unchecked epidemic was doing, and decided to make a difference. Thus, in 1983, the NO/AIDS Task Force was founded, making it the first organization of its kind in the Gulf Coast, and the third oldest HIV/ AIDS education, prevention, and service organization in the United States. Now, in 2008, the NO/AIDS Task Force commemorates its 25th anniversary, marking off 25 years of serving and educating the community. Much has changed in the past quarter century, as advances in research and medicine provide us with progressively better tools to fight HIV/AIDS. NO/AIDS has kept up with the times, continuously adding to its programs in order to be on the front lines of the battle. NO/AIDS has served the gay community proudly since its inception, as one of the epidemic’s hardest-hit populations. In the year 2000 the CAN Project was established to specifically target prevention in the gay community. The Community Awareness Network, located at 507 Frenchmen Street in the Marigny, focuses its attention on prevention, educating the GLBTQ communities about HIV/AIDS and how they can protect themselves. CAN offers free and anonymous HIV testing four times weekly (Monday and Saturday

obituary

ichael “Sean” Dennis, 52, of Pensacola died Sunday, June 15, 2008. Memorial services were held Sunday, June 22nd at Richard’s Memorial United Methodist Church. Most people knew him as “Sean”. Sean had friends all over the world. His home church was Richards Memorial United Methodist Church in Pensacola. Even though he spent many years in Pensacola; Sean was born in New Orleans and always considered New Orleans to be “home”. His favorite spot for many years was the Phoenix bar in New Orleans. With all of his quirks, those who knew him really loved him and we will miss him always! We love you Sean! --William Dunavin, “Marigny Bear”

AMBUSH

MAG.COM 828

from 1-3pm and Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 – 7:30pm). Staff members from the CAN Project frequently venture out into the community to offer testing and counseling at popular locations and events. The NO/AIDS Task Force first performed HIV testing in 1985, when it took weeks to get a result back. In 2003, NO/ AIDS was again on the forefront of HIV/ AIDS testing, when it became one of the pilot locations to offer testing with the OraQuick Advance, an oral swab which takes 20 minutes to process. Clients who come to NO/AIDS for an HIV test will find that the OraQuick is still in use, offering extremely accurate results in only a short time. All clients who choose to test with NO/AIDS will receive a short one-on-one session with a counselor before testing and a follow-up with that same counselor when their results are ready. Testing and counseling is not the only HIV Prevention service NO/AIDS offers to the community, however. The re:Vision project was established in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina to provide a forum for young gay men (18-35) to socialize and learn about keeping themselves safe and disease-free. The POL (Popular Opinion Leader) project has expanded NO/AIDS prevention messages onto the internet, where staff members interact with community members to spread accurate information on protecting against HIV/AIDS and other diseases. A comprehensive outreach program makes free condoms readily available to the gay community in popular social locations. Comprehensive Risk Counseling Services offers counseling on reducing risks for infected and affected individuals. CAN also does street outreach in the French Quarter during Southern Decadence, Halloween, and Mardi Gras, passing out safer sex packets to the partying masses. In addition to the services offered by CAN, NO/AIDS main office, located at 2601 Tulane Avenue, St. 500, offers a full battery of services for HIV infected and affected clients. These services include primary medical care, housing assistance, medication assistance, mental health services, client advocacy, a food bank, and a hot meal delivery service for homebound clients. The community has traditionally been very supportive of the work done by NO/ AIDS, evidenced by donations and a very active volunteer base. Our volunteers are especially helpful during our largest events throughout the year, which include Art Against AIDS, an auction and art show; Saints and Sinners, a GLBTQ literary festival; and Dining Out For Life, a day in which restaurants in the area donate 25% of their proceeds to NO/AIDS. Perhaps the largest event of the year is the NO/AIDS Annual Walk. Each year, hundreds of people walk, bike, and roller-blade to aid in the fight against HIV/AIDS. This year’s walk takes place on Sunday, September 14. This year, the NO/AIDS Task Force commemorates our 25-year anniversary. We invite you to join us in reflecting upon our successes, even as we acknowledge how much work is still to be done. It has been 30 years since the first case of AIDS was identified. NO/AIDS will remain on

the vanguard of HIV/AIDS service and prevention until the disease has been eradicated altogether, and we invite the community to stand with us. Join us in each issue of Ambush as we highlight various NO/AIDS programs. Get involved! Donate what you can—every penny helps—or donate your time, by volunteering with us. However you choose to support NO/AIDS, NO/AIDS will continue to be here supporting you and fighting the spread of HIV/AIDS.

one last song ...from EX-18 was almost dark as night. He did make his way into the next room however, where he spotted an old couch. There he spread his blanket and settled in to await the ending of the storm. He decided as soon as it was over and done with that he would make his way toward the shelter he had been told about, get a shower, a good rest, some food and maybe be able to wash his meager possessions. The house was elated; at last someone had come and claimed it. It was no longer just sitting here wondering where its creators had gone, someone was here at last. This house and the kid had that one thing in common; neither was sure why it had been left alone or where its creators had gone. If that house had been an animated being, it more that likely would have been jumping for joy on at last having an occupant. But it of course was not a live thing or was it? It had its memories of better days and happier times, just as the boy asleep on the old couch did. Outside the storm grew stronger and the winds gained intensity. The man a few

blocks away was not only watching out his window, but had also turned on his television set and was watching a weather alert as well. There was a warning across the bottom of the screen that a tornado was a possibility of striking the area. He quietly shook his head, thinking what next, ever since this global warming thing had come to the forefront, the weather was stranger everywhere. The boy awoke to the sound of a freight train approaching. He could not remember if he had crossed any train tracks getting here, but he may have. The house was shaking, it could feel the winds circling around it, and something bad was headed this way. It had to protect the child within, so in an act of mercy it folded its walls around him and gathering him up in what it was using as arms and lifted him into its bosom. There was no feeling when the twister hit, it just lifted the house with the boy inside of it and swept it away. There was just a vacant spot left afterwards where the house and the child had existed. They were gone now, that was certain, but at last they had each found something to belong to in their departure. The man who had been watching from his window as the twister came down, was thankful that it had missed him and as he stared at the vacant lot where the house had stood, just a flash of concern passed over him, what had happened to the kid he had seen passing by? No matter he was just another in a long line of many lost children wandering from town to town singing ONE LAST SONG. You may reach me at donniejay@hotmail.com.

EXPOSE'-20 of 48 • July 1-14, 2008 • AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM