Ambush magazine volume 26 issue 17

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the "official" dish

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

Southern Decadence Moving Into High Gear

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he 37th Official Southern Decadence weekend is shaping up to be one of the largest in the history of the Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture in New Orleans since 1972. In 2007 some 135,000 participants pumped in over $150 million into the local economy producing a financial benefit to the City of 1/5th of it's total operating budget annually. The weekend ranks in the top 5 celebrations held in New Orleans.

Southern Decadence begins on Wednesday, August 27 and runs through Labor Day, Monday, September 1. The 2008 celebration will be led

by Southern Decadence Grand Marshals (SDGMs) XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma.

They chose Decadence Does Disco as "official" theme; silver, black and white as "official" colors; and Bad Girls in September as "official" song, mix by Brian McCombs and concept by Chris Allen. The "official" sponsors include Ambush, Bud Light, Cactus Juice Burst, Crown Royal, Cruzan Coconut Rum, Ketel One Vodka, Larry Graham: GrahamStudioOne.COM, Maker’s Mark Whiskey, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, Queen Fashions and SouthernDecadence.COM. As you flip through these pages, you will see the hottest events available leading up to and for Labor Day Weekend itself. Be sure and cruise through the entire events schedule available as of press time on Main-18 and 20.

You will find everything from Corner Pocket's Wet Jockey Shorts Contest on Wednesday to Thursday's Cowpokes' Playgirl Manhunt Finals, Rawhide's Bear Beer Bust and Festish Ball, Good Friends USDA Prime Aged Beef Contest and Lafitte's Dick of Decadence Contest.

Friday brings the annual Official Southern Decadence Drag Show to the Golden Lantern, Leather Decadence Block Party to the Phoenix, circuit DJ Joe Gauthreaux to Oz, and the Starlight Girls Revue at Starlight By The Park.

Saturday highlights include Napoleon Itch's 4th Bourbon Street Extravaganza free live concert featuring Deborah Cox, Kimberley Locke, Jeanie Tracy, Thea Austin, Carlos Saenz and Mat Jordan at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann. And then there's Bear Decadence Sire Ursus of Decadence Contest at JohnPaul's, Boots & Balls at Cowpokes, Disco Party at 700 Club, circuit DJ Eddie Baez at Oz, Zoo Revue at Big Daddy's, and Golden Age Revue at JohnPaul's.

The big day is Sunday with the 35th Official Southern Decadence Parade kicking off at 2pm led by SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma outside of the Home of Southern Decadence, The Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street. It's followed at 4pm by the 15th Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss led by SDGMs Tittie Toulouse and Paloma at Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street.

Other Sunday highlights include: the Annual Miss High Hair Contest at Good Friends Bar; Surprise Drag Show at JohnPaul’s; Wet T-shirt & Wet Jockey Shorts Contest at Starlight By The Park; Bear Decadence: Sweatin’ in the Swamp Bear Dance Party at JohnPaul’s; Fleur de Lis Divas’ Southern Decadence Show celebrating Cowpokes 10 Year Anniversary at Cowpokes; Southern Decadence Live Entertainment with Jack Ass Flats at Cutter’s; Decadence Spectacular hosted by Jaded Jade & Marcy Marcell at Starlight By The Park; Boylesque at Cowpokes; and Circuit DJ Alyson Calagna featuring Bel Ami Exclusive Model Lukas Ridgeston performing live at Oz. Monday closes out the weekend with the 11th Annual Official Southern Decadence Closing Party: Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl led by Cruise Director - Ted Mahaffy, honoring SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma, sponsored by Ambush Mag & SouthernDecadence.COM, beginning with snacks at 2pm at Corner Pocket, then off to Double Play, Le Roundup, Orlando’s Society Page, 700 Club and ending with a Labor Day BBQ at Starlight By The Park.

All weekend you will find fun in the sun at The Country Club poolside at the Cabana Bar, GLITZ! The Art of Female Impersonation at Harrah's Casino, and Thrill Me: the leopold & loeb story at the Marigny Theatre.

These are just some of the highlights. Check out the complete events schedule on Main-18 and 20.

Look over Chop Chop for recommendations on some of the best restaurant and delis on Main-28 in the city.

Then there are all of the services in the center Expose section under classifieds starting on Expose-12 including body rubs, bookstores, cable shows, chiropractic, counseling, galleries, hair salons, laundries, lodging/ accommodations, massage, models/ escorts, museum/arts, music, organizations, pets, pharmacy, photography, printers, real estate, retail/shopping, spas, theaters, and so much more.

For all the latest, visit SouthernDecadence.COM.

Tickets Going Fast for GLITZ Southern Decadence Weekend at Harrah's

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ickets are going fast for GLITZ! The Art of Female Impersonation on Southern Decadence weekend. Shows will be held in Harrah’s Theatre during Southern Decadence Weekend, ThursdaySunday, August 28-31, at 9pm nightly.

Tickets 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 entertainment, at Harrah’s New Orleans is available at www.harrahsneworleans.com.

GLITZ! is an avant-garde Elias Production directed by Tommy Elias that showcases the outrageous and extraordinary impersonations of legendary female performers such as Liza Minnelli, Diana Ross, Marilyn Monroe and Cher.

Roy Haylock hosts the show as the infamous “Bianca del Rio,” the renowned personality known throughout New Orleans and New York.

Satyricon Sponsors Opening Night of Voices of Louisiana August 21

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he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is sponsoring the opening night of Shine Productions’

inside

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Thrill Me Preview August 27, Plays Southern Decadence Weekend thru September

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hrill Me: the leopold and loeb story, by Stephen Dolginoff, is a musical drama that recounts the chilling true story of the legendary Chicago teenagers who committed one of the most famous and heinous crimes of the twentieth century. Focusing on their obsessive rela[continued on Main-6]

Giant Southern Decadence Edition Due Out: August 26th DEADLINE: Fri., August 15th

AMBUSH/main celebrazzi southern decadence events 37th official southern decadence sappho psalm the pink pastor trodding the boards obituary/kevin p. barrilleaux chop chop/nola restaurant guide cookin' with auntie dee halloween 25/neworleans carnival/krewe calendar

comedy revue, Voices of Louisiana,

by Barry Lemoine, on Thursday, August 21, 8pm, at Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. All tickets for this performance only are $25 and may be obtained by calling 504.525.4498.

EXPOSE/center ambush paparazzi/nola, metairie ambush paparazzi/new orleans hot tails of red stick red stick paparazzi/baton rouge mobile, city by the bay/paparazzi snap paparazzi/new orleans classifieds acadiana paparazzi/lafayette allons acadiana/lafayette one last song

Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 info@ambushmag.com

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THE OFFICIAL MAG

GulfSouthEntertainment/TravelGuideSince 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide OfficialSouthernDecadenceGuide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] E-mail: ripna@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

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the "official" dish ...from Main-4 tionship, Thrill Me recounts the series of events in 1924 Chicago that earned the two boys the distinction of being America’s first “thrill killers.”

Nathan Leopold was passionate about Richard Loeb, who was passionate about crime and excitement.

Richard managed to convince Nathan that together they embodied Nietzsche”s idea of the “Superman” and were above society and its laws. Together they devised a plan to lure a young boy to his death to prove they could commit the perfect murder. But too soon their perfect crime unraveled.

Eric Liddick as Nathan Leopold and Joshua Peterson as Richard Loeb in Thrill Me Thrill Me previews Wednesday, August 27 at the Marigny Theatre, 1030 Marigny Street at 8pm. It opens to the public on Friday, August, 29, and plays weekends through September 28. Show times on Fridays and Saturdays are at 8pm; on Sundays at 6 pm.There will be no performance on Sunday, August 31. Instead, a “Service Industry Night” performance will be given on Monday, September 1 at 8pm.

Tickets for all performances are $25 - $35 for the

general public. Seniors, students, and members of the New Orleans theatre community are offered discounted prices. Tickets are now on sale.

To make reservations

please call 504.948.9608 or 504.218.8559. Mastercard and VISA accepted.

The musical features Eric Liddick as Nathan Leopold and Joshua Peterson as Richard Loeb, with Kevin Ford understudying both roles.Jim Walpole serves as Musical Director, and Glenn Meche directs.

To Do Productions and the Marigny Theatre are co-producing this Southern premiere production of Stephen Dolginoff’s 2005 award-winning OffBroadway chamber musical.

Two New Shows Added for Decadence at Marigny Theatre

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OYLESQUE - the old fashion Burlesque show with a twist will play at The Marigny theatre two weekends in August. This show with comedy, variety acts and strippers, brings back the glory days of Burlesque - the twist - all the strippers are men. BOYLESQUE is directed by Dennis Monn: with choreography by Miguel Malespin, and will be hosted by Donnie Jay. BOYLESQUE will play Friday, August 22 and Saturday, August 23 for two shows each night at 8pm and 10pm, then Friday, August 29 and Sunday August 31 at 10pm only. Admission for this show will be $15 per person. For tickets to BOYLESQUE call 504.218.5813. Group rates available.

On Saturday the hysterical comedy revue THE GAY OLE OPREY will make it’s initial appearance at the theatre at a 10pm show, following the musical drama Thrill Me. THE GAY OLE OPREY is a Roughneck production and is patterned after The Grand Ole Opry show. But in this show all your country favorites are parodied with funny

new gay lyrics. Admission for this show only is $20, which includes one drink.

To make reservations for THE GAY OLE OPREY phone 504.218.8559.

Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living Awards $20,000 to In This Together to Implement Tobacco Prevention/Control

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n This Together (ITT) has been selected as a 2008-09 Community Program Grant recipient, as provided by The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL).

As a Community Program Grant recipient, In This Together will target tobacco prevention, advocacy, awareness, and control services toward persons living with HIV/AIDS in the community.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Louisiana ranks 8th highest nationally in the number of smokers. HIV+ individuals are more likely to suffer from tobacco-related illnesses than their HIVcounterparts.

Through the TFL grant ITT will advocate and support tobacco prevention and control in the community. ITT will offer a series of Freedom From Smoking support groups designed to address the specific issues and challenges related to smoking and HIV for the HIV+ individual.

ITT, established in 2004, seeks to provide positive opportunities for persons living with or at risk for life challenging illnesses through empowerment, education and supportive services designed to enhance the individual’s quality of life. [continued on Main-8]

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the "official" dish ...from Main-6

Many Stories, One Voice Conference to Commemorate Upstairs Lounge Fire of June 1973

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ashington - Many of the hundreds of pro-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Christians who will converge Sept. 4–7 in New Orleans, La., for the Many Stories, One Voice conference will revisit the site of a devastating fire that killed 32 people at a local gay bar known as the Upstairs Lounge.

The tragedy that occurred on June 24, 1973 — 35 years ago — was the deadliest fire in New Orleans’ history.

Many members of the local Metropolitan Community Church (MCC), including its pastor, the Rev. Bill Larson, died at the fire, which was widely reported as arson. The members of MCC had congregated after their religious service at the Upstairs Lounge as they did every Sunday.

“The Upstairs Lounge Fire, epitomized by the lifeless body of the Rev. Bill Larson, silhouetted in the window of the lounge, and the charred bodies of so many others, was one of those moments in history when hatred and fear seemed to hold sway. That nearly every religious leader in New Orleans refused to offer words of condolence or healing

to the LGBT community at the time, but instead offered condemnation, further solidified the power of death. But, as people of faith, we know that death is never the final answer,” said Rev. Rebecca Voelkel, Institute for Welcoming Resources and faith work director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force.

“Amidst the deafening silence of so many religious leaders and the vocal hatred of others, leaders of the Metropolitan Community Churches were welcomed by the folks at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church of New Orleans. In a great act of courage and affirmation of life, St. Mark’s opened their doors for the memorial service for those killed in the fire,” she added. “Their witness bore life in the moment, but it also planted seeds that have, 35 years later, come to life as the Welcoming Church Movement. Now there are some 3,100 congregations across the U.S. that are publicly welcoming and affirming of LGBT people.”

One of the powerful moments that will happen at the Many Stories, One Voice conference will be when attendees participate in a jazz funeral to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Upstairs Lounge Fire. “This jazz funeral will give participants at the conference an opportunity to both grieve and remember those killed in the Upstairs Lounge Fire. But it will also give participants the opportunity to grieve

and remember all of those whose lives have been lost to injustice or oppression and those who have fought the good fight. We will remember those killed in Katrina and its aftermath, those spiritual mothers and fathers of the proLGBT Christian movement and all those for whom the power of justice, faith and liberation have inspired their ministry,” said Voelkel.

Many Stories, One Voice: The North American Convocation of Pro-LGBT Christians is a conference that will offer new tools and training in the areas of faith-based community organizing, media training, board development, fundraising, research, biblical studies, theology, capacity-building and other concrete skills. Participants will also engage in discussions about issues of race, class, ability, age, embodiment, gender identity and sexual orientation.

Many Stories, One Voice is convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, in partnership with more than 30 pro-LGBT Christian organizations representing progressive, moderate and conservative traditions. For more information or to register, please visit www.manystoriesonevoice.org.

The National Religious Leadership Roundtable (NRLR), convened by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, is an interfaith network of leaders from pro-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) faith, spiritual and religious organizations. We work in

partnership with other groups to promote understanding of and respect for LGBT people within society at large and in communities of faith. We promote understanding and respect within LGBT communities for a variety of faith paths and for religious liberty, and to achieve commonly held goals that promote equality, spirituality and justice.

The mission of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is to build the political power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community from the ground up. We do this by training activists, organizing broadbased campaigns to defeat anti-LGBT referenda and advance pro-LGBT legislation, and by building the organizational capacity of our movement. Our Policy Institute, the movement’s premier think tank, provides research and policy analysis to support the struggle for complete equality and to counter right-wing lies. As part of a broader social justice movement, we work to create a nation that respects the diversity of human expression and identity and creates opportunity for all. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., we also have offices in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis and Cambridge. The Task Force is a 501(c)(3) corporation incorporated in Washington, D.C. Contributions to the Task Force are tax-deductible to the full ex[continued on Main-10]

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shows at Harrah’s Theatre.

Starting at 9pm every Wednesday in Masquerade, groove to the sounds of DJ Captain Charles. New Orleans’ most renowned DJ, Captain Charles has been in the business of entertaining and moving crowds for more than 20 years and still doesn’t miss a beat! Captain Charles has been featured in many publications and was rated one of the best DJ’s in the City of New Orleans by Gambit Weekly. $10 cover charge.

More information about entertainment, including special guest DJs, at Harrah’s New Orleans is available at www.harrahsneworleans.com.

“Alegria” Fashion to Benefit the Louisiana SPCA, Local designers Johnny Delgadillo & Aurora Knox

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the "official" dish ...from M-8 tent allowed by law. (C) 2007 National Gay and Lesbian Task Force . 1325 Massachusetts Ave NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20005, e-mail: theTaskForce@theTaskForce.org.

Harrah's Pumps Up the Volume with September Entertainment Lineup

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ew Orleans - If you love the music of Luther Vandross, “Terry Steele: Here and Now...The Legacy of Luther Vandross,” is a must-see. This acclaimed songwriter will present an evening of endless love at Harrah’s Theatre Friday and Saturday, Sept. 5 - 6, at 8pm nightly.

Terry Steele brings the music of Luther Vandross to life, accompanied by a trio of sultry vocalists and a five-

piece R&B band. Steele has written for such renowned artists as Dionne Warwick, Whitney Houston, Patti LaBelle and Diana Ross, just to name a few. Don’t miss what the New York Daily News calls “one of the top five must-see concerts.”

Harrah’s New Orleans is also pleased to present Chicago, one of the most beloved rock bands of all time, live at the New Orleans Theater at the Convention Center, Sunday, Sept. 21, at 8pm. The Grammy award-winning group has had 21 top 10 singles including such hits as “Saturday in the Park,” “Hard to Say I’m Sorry” and “You’re the Inspiration.”

Sweat to the oldies with New Orleans native Richard Simmons at Harrah’s Theatre, Saturday, Sept. 27.

Get your heart pumping with Simmons, followed by a meet and greet session and photo opportunity with the workout

legend. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and 1pm. Workout sessions begin at 10am and 2pm. Tickets for the Richard Simmons workouts are $20 per person and must be purchased in person during registration.

Harrah’s New Orleans welcomes Thrillusions back to Harrah’s Theatre for four nights only, Sept. 25 - 28, at 7pm nightly. This new production will feature international award-winning magician James Brandon. He will join the cast of legendary rock star impersonators including Tina Turner, Rod Stewart and Prince. The new Thrillusions will also include exciting opening and finale dance numbers with electrifying dancers.

Tickets for all shows are on sale now and may be purchased in person at Harrah’s box office, by calling 504.533.6600 or online at Ticketmaster.com. You must be at least 21 to enter the casino and attend

ew Orleans – Lower Garden District hotspot The Bridge Lounge, best known for it’s dog friendly atmosphere, will change things up a bit on Saturday, September 6 when it breaks out the catwalk to host a fundraiser for the Louisiana SPCA. Local fashion designers John Delgadillo and Aurora Knox will be showcasing their talents in a show dubbed “Alegria.”

The evening will feature not only fashion, but raffles and a silent auction as well, with items donated by local retailers, restaurants and hotels, as well as the unique fashions of both designers.

Aurora Knox has been a resident of New Orleans for many years and was featured in the New Orleans Magazine, January 2008 issue. Aurora is self taught and her signature design look is “Classic Couture.” She is known for her great taste in textiles.

John Delgadillo is a former resident of Los Angeles and has lived in New Orleans for 2½ years. John started out as one of L.A.’s youngest designers and is now known for his classic simplicity with a slight edge.

John and Aurora met 2 years ago on the 1200 block of Carondelt St where they both reside and are now a powerful design duo.

“Alegria”, which translates to happiness, is sure to bring joy not only to guests of the event, but the proceeds raised that night will go help the LA/ SPCA which is committed to bettering the lives of animals and the people whose lives they enrich. The Louisiana SPCA serve thousands of animals every year through a tapestry of programs from sheltering, adoption, and medical care, to humane education, legislation and advocacy.

Tickets will be $5 and available at the door the night of the event, which begins at 6:30. The Bridge Lounge is located at 1201 Magazine St.

Ad ver tise Toda y Adv ertise oday 504.522.8049

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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

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ike Cookmeyer shows off the August Art show at 700 Club by Jenny Kolbel in New Orleans. Paintings are from her fun “Berries” collection inspired by Mardi Gras beads. “I love them and so does New Orleans!” the artist says. Visit Flip4Art.COM for more on this talented artist.

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ike joins manager Cory in a duet for Cafe Lafitte’s in Exile’s weekly Karaoke blowout in New Orleans. Held every Wednesday, you clap "if they’re good" or clap "when it’s over". That’s the tag line here and the winner always get a fab prize.

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MG! Was it Poncho or Chris who perfumed the air for Bean Night at Cutter’s? You can catch this unlikely duo at shift change every Monday for Bean & Rice night, which starts at 4pm, hosted by this popular club in the Marigny area of New Orleans.

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rewe of Mwindo Ball Lieutenant Arnold James, King Mwindo X Laurin and president Ernest Dorsey welcome fellow krewes, members and guest to the krewe’s Meet & Greet blowout hosted in the Marigny Theatre in New Orleans. Mwindo’s Bal Masque XL will be held at Laborers Union Hall on Saturday, January 31, 2009.

anager Joe Trotta welcomes the New Orleans community every Wednesday for Meat Night at Rawhide 2010.

It’s a “bring your own meat” affair with the bar supplying the potato and salad.

Regulars from time to time bring in their own special creations like last week’s red velvet cake from Wood Enterprises’ own Ken Grandpre and scalloped potatoes from Ron.

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outhern Decadence Sponsor Glazer Company’s Michael Schlenker, representing the “official” liquors of Southern Decadence including Kettle One Vodka, Maker’s Mark Whiskey, Crown Royal, Cruzan Coconut Rum and Cactus Juice Burst, joins Good Friends manager Joey Almagro on Dirty Linen Night in New Orleans at Good Friends Bar.

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southern decadence events FRIDAY, August 15th...

WEDNESDAY, August 27th...

8pm, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma’s Metairie Bar Run

8pm, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma’s Marigny Bar Run

10am-1am, Get Decadent Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 8pm, Marigny Theatre & To Do Productions presents the preview of Thrill Me: the leopold & loeb story by Stephen Dolginoff, tickets $35-$25, reservations 504.218.3559 or 504.948.9608, Marigny Theatre 10pm, Kick Off Southern Decadence with Guttah Girl! The Southern Decadence Camp Drag Contest (No Glamour Bitches, Campiest & Funniest Drag, Beards & Moustaches Allowed), Dance Club of the Year Oz 10pm, Southern Decadence Wet Jockey Shorts Contest hosted by Lisa Beaumann, judged by SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma, plus the Boys from Around The World & the Corner Pocket Boys with $150 in cash & prizes, Corner Pocket

SUNDAY, August 23rd...

THURSDAY, August 28th...

WEDNESDAY, August 20th...

9pm, Dark Disco: Name That Disco Tune or Else hosted by SDGM XXXV Paloma with fabulous prizes & Charity 50/50 Raffle, Phoenix

THURSDAY, August 21st...

8pm, SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma’s Southern Decadence ’08 Poster Signing with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, hosted by SDGM XXXI Rusty LaRoux, Big Daddy’s

FRIDAY, August 22nd...

6pm, Sunday Sister Social honoring SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma’s plus all former grand marshals with buffet & drink specials, The Friendly Bar

MONDAY, August 25th...

10pm, Kick off Southern Decadence Week with Pot Luck Burlesque Does Disco hosted by Barry Bareass & Lisa Beaumann with the famous Corner Pocket Dancers &SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma, Corner Pocket

TUESDAY, August 26th...

8am, giant new Official Southern Decadence Guide Ambush Mag, hits the streets in New Orleans, the rest of the Gulf South by Wed., Aug. 27th

10am-1am, Get Decadent Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 12noon, Southern Decadence 2008 featuring 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 4pm until, Welcome to Bear Decadence: Sweatin’ in the Swamp Beer Bust, Rawhide 2010 7pm, Saints vs. Miami on all screens (food after opening kickoff), Cutter’s 8pm, Southern Decadence Lineup: Playgirl Manhunt 2008 Finals, The Marigny Theatre 9pm, GLITZ! The Art of Female Impersonation, Harrah’s New Orleans

Casino 10pm, Southern Decadence: 2nd Annual Fetish Ball crowning 2nd King of Decadence, Rawhide 2010 10pm, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 11pm, Kick Off Southern Decadence with USDA Prime Aged Beef Contest w/$100 cash prize, Good Friends Bar 12midnight - Dick of Decadence Contest, all $5 cover charge proceeds goes to top 3 finishers, Balcony Bar, Cafe Lafitte in Exile 12midnight, Meat On Parade Stripoff Contest w/special guest emcee, Dance Club of the Year Oz

FRIDAY, August 29th...

10am-1am, Get Decadent Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 12noon till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout with Hot Dancers & $5 Absolut all weekend + never a cover, 700 Club 12noon, Southern Decadence 2008 featuring 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 7pm, 3rd Annual “Katrina” Party (campy with food), Cutter’s

8pm-12midnight, Candy Riedl live, Big Daddy’s 8pm, Marigny Theatre & To Do Productions presents Thrill Me: the leopold & loeb story by Stephen Dolginoff, tickets $35-$25, reservations 504.218.3559 or 504.948.9608, Marigny Theatre 8pm, Southern Decadence Lineup: Country Dance Disco: Boots & Balls at the city’s largest country dance party, Cowpokes 9pm, Annual Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals’ Drag Show starring SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma, hosted by The Susan Lucci’s: Rip & Marsha + SDGM XXXII Donnie Jay with Past SDGMs & New Orleans finest entertainers, Official Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal St. 9pm, GLITZ! The Art of Female Impersonation, Harrah’s New Orleans Casino 10pm, Leather Decadence 2008: The Largest Leather/Levi Block Party in the South, presented by the Lords of Leather & the Phoenix, including a Vendor Fair & Beer Bust plus national leather celebrities, Phoenix 10pm, Southern Decadence Lineup: Boylesque, Show Bar of the Year Cowpokes 10pm, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Danc[continued on Main-20]

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sappho psalm

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

What’s in a Name?

T

he Pizanie-Trahan Agency is now available for perform ers: Drag Kings/Queens and Transgenders. What do we do? We give you a name and write for you a biography that will stun friends and judges.

How did we start? The phone rang one sunny spring afternoon; a frantic sounding Randy Trahan said he needed my help with something important. I said, of course, come on over and we’ll work it out. sd events ...from Main-18 ers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 10pm, Southern Decadence 2008: Kickoff Dance Party w/resident DJs Jason Lanoux & Tim Pflueger plus Circuit Great Guest Star DJ Joe Gauthreaux midnight til & 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12midnight, The Starlight Girls Revue, Starlight By The Park

SATURDAY, August 30th...

10am-1am, Get Decadent Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 11am-5pm, Annual Pool Party and Fashion Show hosted by New Orleans own Natasha Fox and featuring Jean Therapy, The HIM Store, prizes, entertainment and much more, $10 admission, 50% of admission profits benefit Project Lazarus, Chateau Sonesta Hotel 12noon-3pm, Bear Decadence: Sweatin’ in the Swamp Bears and Bubbles: The Brunch Edition, Auld’s Sweet Olive 12noon, Southern Decadence 2008 featuring 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12noon till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout with Hot Dancers & $5 Absolut all weekend + never a cover, 700 Club 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 5pm, Napoleon’s Itch presents the 4th Bourbon Street Extravaganza live free concert featuring Deborah Cox, Kimberley Locke, Jeanie Tracy, Thea Austin, Carlos Saenz & Mat Jordan at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets 7pm, Monthly Birthday Party for August babies, Cutter’s

When he arrived, his attitude had changed into a much calmer rush which is about normal for Randy. He made himself comfortable in my sitting room, smoked a cigarette while gulping on a Coke. I waited to hear the problem but before I heard a problem, I listened to him ask questions about my performer friends. It has been a very long time since I was sitting up front at every drag show around town. Still I had stories to

Circuit Great Guest Star DJ Eddie Baez midnight til & 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 11pm, The Zoo Revue’s Southern Decadence Show starring SDGM XXXI Rusty LaRoux & Cast, Big Daddy’s 12midnight, The Golden Age Revue with Show Director Marcy Marcell, JohnPaul’s

SUNDAY, August 31st...

8pm, Bear Decadence: Sweatin’ in the Swamp Sire Ursus of Decadence Buffet with 9pm Contest, JohnPaul’s 8pm, Marigny Theatre & To Do Productions presents Thrill Me: the leopold & loeb story by Stephen Dolginoff, tickets $35-$25, reservations 504.218.3559 or 504.948.9608, Marigny Theatre 8pm, Southern Decadence Lineup: Country Dance Disco: Boots & Balls at the city’s largest country dance party, Cowpokes 9pm, GLITZ! The Art of Female Impersonation, Harrah’s New Orleans Casino 9pm till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout Disco Party with Hot Dancers & $5 Absolut + never a cover, 700 Club 10pm, Southern Decadence Lineup: Rough Necks Gay Ole Opry, Show

10am, Bear Decadence: Sweatin’ in the Swamp Bear Breakfast featuring Best Bear Beard, Butt, Belly & Chest Contest, Phoenix 10am-1am, All Day Pool Party, The Country Club 12noon, Southern Decadence 2008 featuring 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12noon till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout with Hot Dancers & $5 Absolut all weekend + never a cover, 700 Club 1pm, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma Brunch & Make-up Party, Friendly Bar 2pm sharp, 35th Annual Official Southern Decadence Parade led by SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma celebrating Southern Decadence 37, begins at Official Home of Southern Decadence: The Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal St. 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 4pm, 15th Annual Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss led by SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma, sponsored by the Susan Lucci’s: Rip & Marsha, Ambush Mag & SouthernDecadence.COM, AMBUSH Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St.

Bar of the Year Cowpokes 10pm, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 10pm, Southern Decadence 2008 Saturday Dance Party w/resident DJs Jason Lanoux & Tim Pflueger, plus

5pm, Annual Miss High Hair Contest, winner takes home the coveted Bronze Barbie, Good Friends Bar 5pm, Surprise Drag Show, JohnPaul’s 5pm, Wet T-shirt & Wet Jockey Shorts Contest, Starlight By The Park 6-9pm, Leather Decadence: Bear-

[continued on Main-22]

ish Beer Bust, Phoenix 6pm, Leather Decadence: Hot Ash Party, Eagle 6pm, Decadence Spectacular hosted by Jaded Jade & Marcy Marcell, Starlight By The Park 8pm, Bear Decadence: Sweatin’ in the Swamp Bear Dance Party, JohnPaul’s 8pm, Fleur de Lis Divas’ Southern Decadence Show hosted by Brittany O’Bryan featuring Nicole DuBois, Opal Masters & Special Guest Celebrating Cowpokes 10 Year Anniversary, Show Bar of the Year Cowpokes 8:30pm, Southern Decadence Live Entertainment with Jack Ass Flats, a three piece band with piano, guitar & flute with vocals (the piano and flute players are Professors of Music at Loyola University & guitar performed by Ray Crumley, Cutter’s 9pm, Decadence Spectacular hosted by Jaded Jade & Marcy Marcell, Starlight By The Park 9pm, GLITZ! The Art of Female Impersonation, Harrah’s New Orleans Casino 10pm, Southern Decadence Lineup: Boylesque, Show Bar of the Year Cowpokes 10pm, Southern Decadence 2008 Sunday Dance Party w/resident DJs Jason Lanoux & Tim Pflueger plus Circuit Great Guest DJ Alyson Calagna midnight til featuring Bel Ami Exclusive Model Lukas Ridgeston performing live & 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Oz

LABOR DAY MONDAY, September 1st...

10am-1am, Official Recovery Day Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 12noon, Southern Decadence 2008 featuring 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 2pm, 11th Annual Official Southern Decadence Closing Party: Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl led by Cruise Director - Ted Mahaffy, honoring SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma, sponsored by Ambush Mag & SouthernDecadence.COM, beginning with snacks at Corner Pocket, then off to Double Play, Le Roundup, Orlando’s Society Page, 700 Club & ending with a Labor Day BBQ at Starlight By The Park 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 8pm, Marigny Theatre & To Do Productions presents Thrill Me: the leopold & loeb story by Stephen Dolginoff, tickets $35-$25, reservations 504.218.3559 or 504.948.9608, Marigny Theatre 10pm, Decadence Closing Dance Party w/resident DJs Jason Lanoux & Tim Pflueger plus 16 Hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz

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the pink pastor

by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, 504.214.4340 E-mail: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com www.thebigeasymccblog.blogspot.com

Best behavior!

I

t is an exciting time for us at the Big Easy M.C.C., but with this comes all manner of responsibilities and concerns! As many of you know, New Orleans is going to be hosting the biggest ever gathering of proLGBT religious organizations in historyon September 4th till the 7th (www.manystoriesonevoice.org) and this means we have the moderator of Metropolitan Community Churches coming to town; The Rev. Elder Nancy Wilson. Let nobody be mistaken, this is a great joy, and a chance to show her just what we have achieved over the last 10 months or so – but as pastor I cannot help getting that feeling I used to get sappho psalm ...from Main-20 tell about Boom-Boom, Miss Fury, Miss TT, Connie Marcelle, Regina Adams, Donnie Jay, and the wonderful Marcy Marcell, the first Drag performer I had ever seen.

It was fun to reminisce about being a judge at the Miss Rampart Street contest or the Miss & Mr. Gay Pride Contest or attending shows with Rip and Marsha from Pensacola to Baton Rouge.

“So,” Randy said, “I have a friend living in California, San Francisco to be exact, he is doing his first drag show and asked me to select a name and bio for him.”

Wow! That sent a rush through me and I asked if I could help. Together we named “her” Louana since Louisiana is his home and we wrote a scandalous bio that was bawdy and funny. Then I suggested Boudoir as a last name – a women’s bedroom. What could be more appropriate for a shady lady like Louana?

Thanks to our assistance Louana is now a star of stage and film. That seems fitting for the daughter of the Mississippi State Magnolia Queen and the handsome young Marine officer who has been missing since the announcement of Louana’s impending birth. Her beauty is attributed to her mother but her square jaw line, clear blue eyes and in junior high school, her sassy blonde crew cut show a strong resemblance to her father.

We were a great success and so is Louana Boudoir. An accomplishment gone to our heads, Randy and I decided to lend our help to any of you “girls” that need a little charm and pizzazz. I am

when I had promised my mother I would clean my room, and she came upstairs to inspect the results! Now Nancy herself doesn’t think like this – it is my own issue, and actually she is a very gracious and easy going sort of person.

On the last Sunday of the conference Rev. Nancy Wilson will be preaching at our church in Carrollton, and the reason I am nervous is that Nancy is quite a personage, she is someone I really respect, and her impression of our community here in NOLA is very important to me. Of course this is a problem because I am showing a lack of faith! Every Sunday I preside over a growing and enthusiastic group of people whose main distinguishing feature is the love and friendship they have for each other, and the passion they have for the God that originates and perfects that same love.

I am nervous not because I feel they assured that our bios will also improve your sex life.

After a good laugh, I asked him what the important “thing” was that he needed help with. “Why, gurl, we just did it,” he replied. I thought that important meant business to do with PFLAG. Guess I got my priorities confused for a minute.

Gay Prom

B

etter late than never, the annual Gay Prom is set for August 22nd at the Holiday Inn Superdome. Everyone is welcome to this gala affair. The Prom starts at 7pm with DJ Soul Sister and will close at 10:30pm.

Julie Thompson and I, along with other Board Members of PFLAG have attended the Prom in years pass since PFLAG is one of the sponsors. It really is a fun time even for us older folks.

Students are encouraged to invite their families to enjoy the fun with them and meet other Gay students and their families.

Disco is this year’s theme. For those of us who actually lived through the Disco age and were relieved when the music died, it should be a joyful reminder of our younger days. For the students, it will be a fast paced, fun evening with lots of laughs and happy memories. In keeping with the Disco theme, the dress is sexy casual. I thought that was all there was these days.

There are several freebees – parking is free at the Holiday Inn for party goers, food is free and admission is free for everyone. There will be specialty drinks during the evening. What?!

are a crowd of loose cannons that may disgrace me, but because I may disgrace myself! It is not that the congregation is unworthy of the visit; it is the fear that I am unworthy of the congregation! And that Nancy will get wise to me.

This is a problem we face relatively often – our own insecurity is projected onto other people and situations – we feel ourselves unworthy or unable and find ways out that often involve other people’s plans and ambitions being affected.

Of course, there is a version of this phenomenon at work in our community every day. Most of us who identify as Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgender are told from the first stirrings of our identity that we are ‘not as good’ as every one else – whether this is expressed as our being ‘sinful’ or ‘deviant’ or ‘morally disabled’ it filters into our sense of self worth and expresses itself as internalized homophobia.

I have written about this before and I will write about it again. Our expectation must be the same as everybody else’s – we must expect absolute equality and be appalled when we don’t get it; not accept our inequality as a fact of Drinks? Does that mean alcoholic drinks? Yes, it does. But everyone will be carded and wrist bands will be worn by those old enough to lawfully drink the “specialty” drinks. PFLAG does not support under age drinking and insists on guidelines.

Now I know some of you will be saying, “a Prom in August – that’s a back to school party.” Well, the re:Vision guys have been working on this party for eight months and had to overcome several outside problems especially where the location was concerned. It is hoped that the ’09 Prom will be rescheduled to June. Rather than miss a year, it was decided to hold the event later in ’08. Bravo guys! Thanks go to Ryan, Jake, Tanner and others at the NO/AIDS Task Force Can Office. Remember this is the Prom for the many Gay students who aren’t allowed to bring same sex dates to their school proms.

See all you Disco “Aunties” there.

Oops! Does that make me an “Unclies”?

MSOV The more I write that, the more difficult it is not to giggle. It just sounds naughty – doesn’t it? Or have I've been spending too much time with Randy, Ray and Paul. Well, this MSOV is a great thing and stands for Many Stories, One Voice, the Christian Conference that will be here in just a few short weeks.

I have written about the gathering of Gay and Gay friendly Christians for many months but until September 4th, I will keep on begging for volunteer workers. The Gay friendly churches in the area like St. Anna’s and St. Mark’s and

life. When we stop being appalled by our lack of employment rights, or our inability to get married, or our unequal treatment in adoption or any other issue we admit defeat and stop being a moral force. We are every bit as good as any other soul on God’s Earth and need to affirm this again and again and again; we need to expect the best, not the worst, and treat anything less than the best with the contempt it deserves.

This community and each of us as individuals deserves excellent healthcare, excellent spiritual resources and the same support and services from the state and federal government and the city as other citizens have a right to expect. You may have noticed that none of those governmental agencies that refuse our community services make any distinctions about accepting LGBT taxes!

Let us commit to demanding more, and fighting that ‘turned inward’ hatred that is such a damaging force in our community. We have a right and a calling to live liberated, joyful lives – in love and friendship – with the same ability to ‘pursue happiness’ as anyone else.

I for my part will show a little faith, and look forward to Nancy coming to preach as a sign of our progress and growth, and welcome you all to come and visit us for a gala service, great music and plenty of food afterwards on September 7th at 5pm.

Rev. Clinton Crawshaw is the Pastor of The Big Easy Metropolitan Community Church in New Orleans. They meet every Sunday at 5pm at St. Matthews Church at 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. – ring or e-mail for details. pastor@bigeasymcc.com 504.214.4340. Sermons streamed online at www.bigeasymcc.com.

Freedom Fellowship have been asking for helpers and have gathered a few. So far, I have heard nothing from MCC who has been doing a great deal of advertising on our behalf. Christ the Liberator has a high percentage of volunteers with three members on the host committee. For a small church, that is a great show of community spirit and says volumes about our priest, Fr. Michael Des Jardins. One-third of the PFLAG Board has volunteered but I haven’t heard anything from other Gay/ Gay-friendly organizations. We need more help.

We need at least two more homes to be opened to visitors. We need several dozen more volunteers. An ad appears on Main-23 in this issue of Ambush. I haven’t seen it yet but I am hoping that it will move some of you in this area to open your hearts and volunteer your time. Every day that you volunteer for two hours, you will get into the Conference workshops free.

Please consider helping by calling me (Toni) at 504.833.1712 or e-mailing Psalmwrite2@aol.com. Thank you.

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trodding the boards

by Brian Sands

E-mail: bsnola2@hotmail.com

A Place in the Sun at Le Chat Noir

A

Place in the Sun found Running With Scissors at the top of their game as they reinterpreted the classic 1950s movie adaptation of Dreiser’s An American Tragedy to provide an evening of wicked fun.

In Place, poor relation George Eastman (Jack Long) takes a job on the assembly line at his rich relations’ factory. He meets, falls in love with and impregnates a co-worker (Dorian Rush) but by then has fallen out of love with her and is getting used to the high life with a new gal pal (Brian Peterson) from the right side of the tracks. What to do?

Let’s just say there’s a little boating accident followed by a trial and...well, if you haven’t gotten the picture by now, just rent the DVD. This Place was witty, well-paced and slyly funny with Liz Taylor film references sprinkled throughout. (If you don’t know why, please hand in your gay card.) Not only was this production endlessly inventive in its use of video projection and other theatrical legerdemain to create the feel of a vast cinemascopic epic, but, unlike some previous Rw/S efforts, every scene was delicious with nothing going on for too long.

Long was a brooding, naifly charming Eastman not going for the easy laughs but creating a solid if confused character that held the whole shebang together. In Liz’s role, Peterson was fabulous as always capturing the breezy joie de vie that is the birthright of the very rich. Though Rush had her funfun moments in a number of small roles,

she displayed real pathos as the simple gal who sees her chance for happiness melt away before her eyes.

Whether as the swank paterfamilias of the hoity-toity Eastmans, a Scout Master that makes you wonder how well the Scouts have kept gays out, or a no-nonsense trial attorney, Bob Edes, Jr. was his usual, brilliant chameleonesque self. If we expect nothing less from Edes, it was a delight to see Brad Caldwell come into his own, quickchanging through a succession of finely etched and hysterically funny portraits.

Newcomer Wesley Callaway may not be quite in the same league yet, but he more than held his own as the Eastmans’ wastrel son Earl and a Boy Scout going for his rainbow merit badge. >From its opening film clip to its priceless finale, I’d give this a First Place in the sun, rain or any other meteorological condition!

An Enemy of the People at St. Mark’s Community Center

1

26 years after its premiere, Henrik Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People still packs a wallop. Ibsen’s tale of a doctor who is silenced by his town’s mayor and other citizens who fear economic ruin if the doctor’s message that the community’s supposedly healthful springs could be disease-causing, seems as though it could’ve been written yesterday. Just think of all the corporate cover-ups and massive product recalls of recent years.

In Cripple Creek Theatre Company’s production of Arthur Miller’s adaptation, Ibsen’s words are well worth listening to even if you have to strain to hear them

over the whirr of the St. Mark’s Community Center’s air conditioner. Fortunately, director Andrew Vaught has used a thrust configuration which is much more hospitable than St. Mark’s more distancing proscenium stage.

Like most “well-made” plays, Enemy can be a little talky but Vaught’s extremely well-paced direction keeps those sections from dragging. And if the scene changes involving a drunk and a kinda Greek chorus of townspeople are less effective than they could be, this solid, at times gripping production makes one wonder why Ibsen isn’t attempted here more often.

Certainly we have the actors for such classics. Ron Reeder’s Mayor was a smooth operator, pompous and a bit unctuous but well-knowing what he has to do to protect his community even at the expense of his own brother. As Dr. Stockmann, Donald Lewis was at times a bit overly emphatic but such impulsiveness suits the character. His Stockmann was not so much an innocent as one not aware of the implications of his actions. And if he was slightly pompous himself, it well-showed how he and his brother the mayor were cut from the same cloth.

Maura Hooper, an actress new to New Orleans, made Mrs. Stockmann a charming lady of means who with her searching eyes tried to find a way to protect her family and her husband’s honor. Blake Baudier, Alden Eagle, Monica Harris, Liam Kraus and Bradley Rosenberg all performed capably in smaller roles.

Dennis McCann in the pivotal role of Mrs. Stockmann’s snarky father, however, was a drag on this production. If he seemed to understand his character’s temperament and motivations, he simply does not have the acting skills needed to translate that into a believable, multi-dimensional performance.

As challenging as it may be to fill all roles with actors of the caliber of Reeder, Lewis and Hooper, if Cripple Creek wants to rise above mere community theater, it owes it to itself to be stricter in its casting criteria if it wants to fulfill the potential that it has shown.

In the meantime, any show that can engender conversations about FEMA, formaldehyde-infested trailers & foot-dragging; Mayor Nagin’s trying to stifle a free press vis a vis NOAH; using “national security” to justify the abuses at Guantanamo; and how, in the wrong hands, democracy can be turned on its head, is a show worth seeing. You have one more weekend to do so.

Once Upon a Mattress at Westwego Performing Arts Theatre

I

Jack Long, Dorian Rush and Brian Peterson in A Place in the Sun!

f the talent shown in Jefferson Performing Arts Society’s Summer Youth Theatre’s production of Once Upon a Mattress is any indication of the future talent of musical theater then the future is very bright indeed.

obituary Kevin P. Barrilleaux Sept. 2, 1966 - July 11, 2008

K

evin Barrilleaux was 41 years of age and a lifelong resident of Harvey, LA. Kevin’s untimely passing from an aneurysm shocked family and friends alike.

He was the beloved son of Cherrye Barrios Barrilleaux and the late Edward P. “ E d d i e ” Barrilleaux. Brother of Wendy B. Bossetta and Chris E. Barrilleaux.

Brother in law of Valerie Barrilleaux and Michael Bossetta. Uncle of Lane Gulotta, Lacey Richoux, Grant and Ross Barrilleaux, a special acknowledgement to his partner Alan Coker.

A note from friends: We seemed to have lost a friend, someone who was a joyful free spirit, who would bend over backwards to help anyone. Let’s not get all sentimental for there is time enough for that, what we would like to do is offer to you in the spirit of life itself a reminder that life is precious and that each day is a gift, that’s the reason it is call the “PRESENT” .

Share your “PRESENT” with all of those you love and hold near, as we can clearly see tomorrow is not promised to anyone. In loving memory of a young man who has had an impact on many, for he has touched many lives and has helped to make them complete.

Kevin, you will be greatly missed, by all of us who’s lives you have touched.

We also know we will meet again in a better place, so until that day may peace be with you, and may God bless you as he opens his arms and welcomes you home. >From the ingenious use of children’s drawings to illustrate the prologue to the happily-ever-after ending, AJ Allegra’s production of this musical version of “The Princess and the Pea” was an unadulterated delight. And that he, along with Musical Director Donna Clavijo and Choreographer Tara A. Brewer, did it all in three weeks with a cast of 40 kids makes the joyous results even more impressive.

This was one of those productions that offered such a high caliber of performance that you wished such budding thespians were given as much attention by this city’s media as our younger athletes. Sergius Centanni made a sweet Prince Dauntless who must get married before anyone else in the kingdom can wed. Collin Camardelle was a studly Sir Harry who’s having girlfriend [continued on Main-25]

MAIN~24 of 52 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 12-25, 2008 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

trodding the boards ...from M-24 issues. As the Minstrel with a heavenly voice, Destiny Billot fooled me into thinking she was a boy soprano.

In a role that sometimes gets overshadowed, Gabriella Trentacoste brought a wonderful spunkiness to Lady Larken, Sir Harry’s impatient-to-wed lady love. Jenna Ibieta’s Queen Aggravain captured every bit of the role’s humor and bossiness; we cheered when she finally got her comeuppance in the end. And as Princess Winnifred, Rachel Romano made one sense what qualities Carol Burnett must’ve exhibited in the role that made her a star—sweetness as she pines for Dauntless, toughness as she swims the moat, determination as she vows to pass the Queen’s royalty test, and insecurity as she wonders if she’ll live “happily ever after.”

With sure comic timing and a set of pipes that can be heard in the very last row, I suspect we’ll be seeing a lot more of Ms. Romano.

With not a weak link in the cast, Cameron MacDonell’s cute scenery and Alan Payne’s ever sure hand to conduct the orchestra, rather than coming to “and they lived happily ever after”, this was a show I hoped would just go on and on.

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

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OPEN

As You Like It at Tulane University

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long with Twelfth Night, written about the same time, As You Like It is one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays; it was done here as recently as four years ago. Yet the appeal of them escapes me; perhaps I’ve just never yet seen a great production of either.

As a fan of the Bard who’s seen countless Macbeths, and never minds sitting through it again, I wonder, what have I against As You Like It? Well, ‘tis a talky one and while one could say that about many works in the Shakespeare canon, unlike, say, Much Ado About Nothing or Measure for Measure, AYLI is, despite all its talk of love, a play more of the mind than the heart. Or, rather, of two hearts coming together through the cerebral minds they’re attached to.

In either case, this makes AYLI a work more difficult to love unless all its actors dig deep down and invest every syllable with the most authentic of feel-

9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat.. ing.

Such was not the case with Sean Patterson’s recent production for The Shakespeare Festival. Reset in the 1920s, there was nothing egregiously wrong with it but it was a bit flat with little sense of poetry or magic to justify its doing.

And if, as stated in the Director’s notes, this AYLI was to have “relevance and resonance for [New Orleans] here and now”, then I could only wish those poor displaced folks living in formaldehyded FEMA trailers were having as good a time as Duke Senior and his entourage in the Forest of Arden seemed to be having.

That said, herewith those aspects of this production as I liked them, as I didn’t like them and as I had mixed feelings.

As the soon-to-be banished [continued on Main-26]

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panache to the usually throwaway role of Le Beau.

J. Patrick McNamara evinced subtle menace as the usurping Duke Frederick.

There was nothing subtle about Lorenzo Gonzalez’ Touchstone. With the intensity of a sailor using semaphores, he acted out all of the clown’s witticisms which had the effect of undercutting their impact. Touchstone certainly has a dirty mind but it was given only half reign here as Gonzalez seems incapable of giving a modulated performance.

Conversely, Morrey McElroy was a natural in the small role of Corin. With her ability to connect deeply with Shakespeare’s words, when will someone give her a lead like Beatrice in Much Ado? Lara Grice was suitably full of herself as Jaques.

Yet despite her being one of NOLA’s finest actresses, capable of comedy and drama, and the gender bending nature of her casting, her Jaques, and particularly the famed Seven Ages of Man speech, did not make much of an impression.

The uncredited fight choreography for the big wrestling scene did.

Uncle Vanya at the Backyard Ballroom

C

trodding the boards ...from M-25 Rosalind, Trina Beck’s facial expressions and body language aptly conveyed that she knew she was on treacherous ground in her Uncle’s court. Hers was not the usual plucky Rosalind but one more cautious in spirit, her inner turmoil reflected in her eyes as she let her heart o’ertake her mind. Lovely.

Likewise, James Bartelle’s eyes can express hurt or love with the finest of silent screen actors. And having a black actor as Orlando added another layer of complexity to his having been deprived of his

birthright.

Yet Shakespeare’s words do not fall trippingly from Bartelle’s tongue; he too often sounded like he had marbles in his mouth.

And if there were few sparks between Beck and Bartelle they did well despite this, seeming well-suited for each other; perhaps because I had just returned from a visit to Oregon, they reminded me of happy couples I had seen in crunchy granola Portland.

Matthew Mickal did not overplay Oliver’s arrogance & meanness, making his conversion at the end that much more believable. As Mickal expands from musical comedy into Shakespeare I look forward to future roles of his as he continues to stretch his talents.

With Ashley Ricord’s to the manner born Celia still fresh in my mind, Jennifer Mefford’s was a forgettable collection of superficial line readings.

Nancy Hartman White, an actress new to NOLA, brought

ompleting the triumvirate of classic drama in New Orleans in the summer (who knew?) was Four Humours’ Uncle Vanya, Chekhov’s portrait of thwarted lives and a family in turmoil. With its talk of a disappearing environment, this play is as relevant as it ever was.

Using Paul Schmidt’s good translation (though I did hear “Yeah, ya right” once or twice) Director Kathryn Talbot did a fine job of moving her actors around on the cramped confines of the Backyard Ballroom’s stage.

More importantly, she captured the humor essential to Chekhov and elicited honest performances from even her less experienced cast members.

I’m pleased to report that this Vanya heralded the arrival of a major new actress here. As Yelena, wife of Vanya’s brother-in-law, Jennifer Growden gave a luminous performance of sublime depth. With her unassuming, cultivated elegance, she invested Yelena with a touching humanity instead of playing her like an icy bitch as is too often done. Even when Growden flubbed a line, slightly, she made it seem entirely natural.

Michael Martin endowed his Vanya with a toughness not always seen, even making him a bit overwrought, whiny and egotistical. This is certainly a valid approach—Vanya doesn’t have to be a saint—but Martin missed some of the pathos inherent in the role by being too hard-edged and bitter from the start. Still he achieved a real emotional connection with the audience and his fellow actors in the climactic third act.

Playing the husband of his real life daughter (calling Dr. Freud!), Ron Growden made for a crotchety, selfcentered Professor in a satisfying performance. As the alcoholic Dr. Astrov, Frederick Mead had a tendency to “act” too much with his face like an overworking silent film actor; he was best when he kept his delivery simple and to the point.

Only Any Woodruff seemed out of place. Much too brittle for the gentle Sonya, she seemed to have only one tone of voice.

Overall, a worthy attempt at a difficult play. I might question, though, the necessity of keeping the play set in 19th century Russia. With much talk of and actual drinking, it would seem entirely appropriate to reset Uncle Vanya in the New Orleans of today.

GIANT SOUTHERN DECADENCE

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cookin' with auntie dee

chop chop

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

by Donnie Jay E-mail: auntiedeej@hotmail.com Photo©GrahamStudioOne.COM

New Orleans Restaurant Guide

A New Spin Open 24 hours, it's one of the best stops on an Old Favorite

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 Restaurant, Deli & BBQ, 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 10am-3pm and Sun., brunch 10am3pm. 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,

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 7am-10pm. Call 899.2911 or visit MagazinePerks.COM. Marigny Perks, 2401 Burgundy, serves gourmet coffee, sandwiches, pastries, danish and cakes. Open 7 days 7am-10pm. 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, 610pm. 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 5pm10pm 7 days. Call 522.6746 for info.

Petunias, A Restaurant, 817 St. Louis, is open daily 8am-10pm serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, crepes, poboys, 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.

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.

O

ne of my favorite dinners growing up was always spaghetti and meatballs, and in fact it still is, now a days however it has to be whole wheat pasta and lowfat extra lean meatballs. Alas diabetes has sent my favorite meal the way of the do-do bird. However, in researching this week’s menu I stumbled upon this recipe for white spaghetti and meatballs, which puts a whole new spin on an old favorite and I thought I would pass it on, and build a whole meal around it. Enjoy!

BAGUETTES (Make these fresh loafs of bread the day before. Serve them with hot olive oil for dipping. Flavor the oil with fresh basil leaves.)

2 (1/4-ounce) envelopes rapid-rise yeast 2 tablespoons sugar 2 ½ cups warm water 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon butter, softened 6 ½ to 7 cups all-purpose flour 2 egg whites 2 tablespoons cold water Stir together the first three ingredients in a four cup liquid measuring cup.

Allow to stand five minutes. Stir together the yeast mixture, salt, and butter in a large bowl. Gradually stir in enough flour to make a soft dough.

Place into a well greased bowl. Turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, forty minutes or until doubled in size. Punch dough down, turn out on to a lightly floured surface, and knead lightly four or five times. Divide dough into four pieces. Roll each portion with rolling pin to remove air bubbles. Shape

into a fifteen inch rope. Place each into a greased baguette pan or on a large baking sheet. Make deep 2-inch cuts in top of loaf using a razor blade. Let rise in a warm place without drafts, thirty minutes or until doubles in size. Bake in a 400 degree oven for fifteen minutes.

Stir together egg whites and cold water; brush over bread. Bake five minutes more or until golden. Cool on wire racks.

EASY SPINACH SALAD 1 (10-ounce) package fresh spinach 1 medium size red onion, thinly sliced 2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped coarsely 1 cup garlic-seasoned croutons 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Toss first three ingredients in a large bowl. Serve with dressing. Top with croutons and sprinkle with cheese.

Orange-Raspberry Vinaigrette ½ cup orange marmalade ¼ cup raspberry vinegar 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro 2 tablespoons olive oil Combine all ingredients in a small bowl; whisk together. Yield: one cup WHITE SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS 1 ½ pounds skinned and boned chicken breasts, cut into chunks 1 large clove garlic 1 large egg 10 saltine crackers, finely crushed 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Vegetable cooking spray 1 (8-ounce) package sliced fresh [continued on Main-31]

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krewe calendar 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... cookin' w/auntie dee ...from M-29 mushrooms 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour ½ cup dry white wine 3 cups low-sodium fat free chicken broth 1 (8-ounce) fat-free cream cheese ¼ teaspoon ground red pepper ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley 1 (8-ounce) package pasta, prepared as per package directions Process chicken and one garlic clove in a food processor until ground (1 ½ pounds ground turkey can be substituted.) Stir together chicken mixture, egg, crushed saltines, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Cover and chill at least twenty minutes. Shape mixture into one inch balls. Place a rack coated with cooking-spray in an aluminum foillined baking pan. Arrange meatballs on rack; lightly spray meatballs with cooking-spray. Bake at 375 degrees for thirteen minutes or until golden and cooked through. Saute mushrooms and nutmeg in hot oil in a Dutch oven over

~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 Bandstand 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.

medium-high heat eight to ten minutes or until mushrooms are tender. Add minced garlic; sauté for one minute.

Sprinkle with flour. Add wine, stirring to release brown particles from bottom of pan. Whisk in broth. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, fifteen minutes. Add cream and cheese, whisking until smooth and sauce is thickened. Add meatballs, red pepper and parsley; simmer ten minutes. Serve sauce and meatballs over warm cooked pasta. Yield: six servings CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT BISCOTTI 2 large eggs ¾ cup sugar 1 tablespoon Frangelico 2 cups all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa 2 teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted, skinned, and chopped Beat eggs with an electric mixer at medium speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar, beating at high until thick and pale. Add liqueur, beating until blended. Combine flour and next three ingredients; fold into egg mixture. Fold

in nuts. Cover and chill ten minutes.

Divide dough into three parts and spoon two inches apart onto a highly greased baking sheet. Shape each portion of dough into an eight-inch log. Bake at 350 degrees for twenty minutes or until lightly browned. Transfer to wire racks to cool. Reduce oven heat to 300 degrees. Cut logs diagonally into ½ inch slices. Place slices cut side down, on baking sheets. Bake for ten minutes; turn slices over, and bake five to ten minutes more. Transfer to wire racks to cool. Yield: three dozen You may contact me via e-mail at donniejay@hotmail.com.

Giant Souther n Southern Decadence Edition Deadline: Frida y, August riday 15th 504.522.8049

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, 619-621 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, 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.

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ambush

paparazzi

Aletha tells JohnPaul’s John to let them eat cake on Bastille Day at Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Opal Masters shows off a “baby bump” at Fleur de Lis Divas, but surly she can’t be birthin’ a baby!

Hot Summer Nights ~ New Orleans, Metairie ~ Photos: Regina Adams

Sandy celebrates her birthday with Lee at Cutter’s

Bartender Matt dishes up fresh popcorn for Monday Movie Night at Lafitte’s

You can catch cute Paul behind the bar at 700 Club

Miss Vieux Carre America Cassidy St. James joins Cowpokes’ Fleur de Lis Divas

Fleur de Lis Divas Show Director Brittney O’Bryan sizzles at Cowpokes

Kristy Lee live at Club Tribute in Metairie

Crowd gathering around the stage to watch Kristy Lee at Club Tribute in Metairie

Reigning Oh, What A Drag Queen Mike of 700 Club fame off to this year’s event

Reindeer do fly at Cowpokes, right Aletha?

Dancers Brock, Mitch & Kyle at Corner Pocket’s Thursday Calendar Boy Contest

New manager Dr. DeLorean slingin’ cocktails with bartender Trenton at Neighborhood Bar of the Year Cowpokes

Show Director Rusty LaRoux strikes a pose in The Zoo Revue at Big Daddy’s

The dynamic Teryl-Lynn Foxx does a guest spot at Fleur de Lis Divas at Show Bar of the Year Cowpokes

Transgender of the Year Regina Adams & Fly Fashion Victim Pat McCardle

Bar baron Matt welcomes you to 700 Club, the French Quarter’s newest hot spot

Hecter, Jerry & bartender Paul out at 700 Club

Corner Pocket’s Michael Elias, MC Electra City & dancer Brock at Thursdays Calendar Boy Contest

Calendar Boy Contest brought Mitch to the bar at Corner Pocket

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ambush

paparazzi

Miss Eloy & Toebe always smilin’ behind the bar at Starlight

Jay celebrates his birthday with Lucille at Big Daddy's with Rusty LaRoux slingin' cocktails

Chuck & Bill pop into Double Play for cocktail hour

Marcy Marcell pays tribute to her late sister Connie Marcelle at Starlight

Joe, David, Allen & Derek welcome the crowds to Dance Bar of the Year Oz

Eva Las Vegas hits the Starlight stage for the Connie Marcelle tribute Bianca Del Rio flys in from New York to do Show Night at Oz

New bartender Tommy joins long-time bartender Carol at Le Roundup

Tommy joins Rob for a cocktail at Le Roundup

Bruce slings cocktails at The Corner Pocket

Bryan, Joseph, Alvin, Rusty & Don enjoy Sunday afternoon cocktails at 700 Club

John, Tim, Paul & Sammy (SDGM XXXV Paloma) sling ‘em at the Pub Passion Armani Cassidine joins the Connie Marcell tribute at Starlight

The Connie Marcelle tribute brought Athena to the Starlight stage

Princesse Stephaney joins Sunday Show Night at Oz

Ken whipped up one of his famous Red Velvet Cakes for Meat Night at Rawhide

Alternatives’ Philip & Kevin pop in for Show Night at Oz

Bartender Darron welcomes you to Meat Night Wednesdays at Rawhide

Samson shows off the Bad Girls In September CD, the official SD song, with concept by Chris Allen

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Celebratin' in The Big Easy ~ New Orleans

Bus Stoppa had ‘em rolling in the isles for the Connie Marcelle tribute

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hot tails of red stick

by Brad Benedict Email: bradhottails@hotmail.com

Another Party

I

t was party time again this past week with a major one for the sexy interior designer on Bungalow Lane. The two women, Jean and Kathy, just came along and joined in because they are neighbors, and it was their birthday too. That’s what Spanish Town neighbors do. We like to share.

David was a nervous wreck, but everything came together just as it was supposed to do. His fabulous home is a great asset to this part of historic old Red Stick. It has been lovingly restored with the porch added, and it is the porch to be on whether it is a party or just an occasional drop-in visit. Even though it was sweltering hot at the beginning, the fans helped tremendously.

The food arrived from all directions - bunches and bunches of gourmet foods, sandwich trays, special ethnic dishes, desserts, drinks, and lots and lots of snackables all over the place. I mean snackable food, but that would also apply to the host, his trainer, and several of his guests. Goodness! It was such a wonderful treat to be with such lovely guys - and gals if that’s the way you swing.

I’ve watched David as he has aged, and he has gotten more refreshingly sexy, but when I met Walter, I knew that this young man had something to do with it. If you want a personal trainer, I’d probably recommend him just on looks and body image. Even the smile and beautiful eyes just dominated this young man, and I can assure you that it must have had an unusual effect on the birthday boy because he has the body of a twenty-something stud, and he’s only 39 again. Some people just age gracefully, and David has some damn good genes. When he wears those teeny black straight-out-of-International-Malecatalog shorts, my tongue just stands up and says howdy.

Well, I must move on to other scenery, and that brings me to a trio of Rapides studs. Of course, I’ve told you about Edward before, but he outdid himself at this party by bringing two more stunning beauties from up Alexandria way. Dustin and Brian certainly make a nice couple in both looks and charm. I didn’t get to talk with them much, but you can tell a lot about someone by just observing. Of course, I observe Edward every chance I get.

He will just make your heart go pitterpatter, and if you have the pleasure to be in his company, you will understand what I mean. That smile comes through, and you can see the twinkle in his eyes immediately. He is such a dashingly handsome charmer.

Apparently James thinks so, because I see him and Edward together occasionally. I have to admit that if I had a chance to talk with James more, I could probably do a comparison of personalities and come up with a similar opinion on each. It is in the realm of charm, and some guys don’t seem to know how to use that characteristic. If done naturally and in a positive way, it shows up as one hellava nice surge of body energy. James knows how, and he can just stand still, look your way and smile, and you know you are in the presence of a real charmer - maybe a little on the shy side at first, but smoldering with erotic charm just waiting to come forth. I like that in a young man.

I was pleased to run into my queen at the party. I don’t go to as many Apollo functions anymore because of my writing, traveling, and theater events, but I’m here to tell you that when it comes to Apollo royalty, it just don’t get any better than the two of us. Isn’t that right, Terry? We shared a good year together, buying shirts and vests to match, going to events together, and coming up with two costumes to represent our theme of Treasures. We were told to pick what we would consider to be the ultimate treasure. Terry was just simply a beautiful Queen Apollo, gorgeous gown and wonderful backpiece covered in white feathers, and the glitter that was brought to that stage followed him to the end of the runway. It was such a pleasure to share the stage with him. I chose to be the king representing the Lost City of Atlantis, and my costume was all gold and white, and some of that material cost me $98 a yard. And the decorations on our backpieces were just awesome and expensive too, but we wanted to go all out to make this special night one to rank up there with the very best in costume design and presentation.

We accomplished our goals. As king of the Lost City, it was what I considered to be the ultimate treasure - an unknown element of time just waiting to be discovered or to linger in research forever and ever. We were raised up to the second story level on fork lifts and came out doorways of building designs with steps leading down to the stage. It was a little scary, and we were both afraid of falling, but we made it. Thank you for being my queen, Terry. You will always have a warm spot in my heart as I remember this memorable night.

There were other Apollo kings and Queens there too. Co-captain for the Treasures bal masque Don Johnson attended the birthday bash, and, of course, who could forget the lavish costume that King David wore when he

made his entrance. The same holds true for Gene Ransome. Oh, I could go on and on and tell you more, but I guess I better tell you about more of the guests. Maybe I’ll do a year-end memories column. I’ll see what I can come up with.

In the meantime, I have to tell you that my cigar-smoking buddy was there in all her glory. She is a sweetheart, and I do enjoy her company as well as that of Debbie and Josie. When you put these three ladies (did I say ladies?) together you know you are going to enjoy the company tremendously. They are always taking trips together, and they keep me up to date on lots of activities in old Red Stick.

I think when you have a crowd such as this coming together, you always find yourself going back to the old Mirror Lounge. I don’t mean the one that emerged on Third Street, but the original one on North Boulevard, way back when the Dixie Inn was at the end of the street, and, if memory serves me correctly, The Dock was on Third. I always love to be around Jeannie, and we caught up on the latest from Jacques at least what we knew. And I also got to visit with Gregory for a while. It had been years since I had seen him, and he mentioned Johnny Logan to me.

That was a beautiful man from our past, and it was so nice to recall him and that period of time. Gosh, Johnny left us long before Gerald, S.J., Mr. Bill, Steve, and so many others. It seems that we must have spent a good half hour just recalling that part of our past. I really had to laugh at one thing Gregory said to me. He was sitting across from me and Jeannie, and he leaned forward and told me I had such a nice box. I think it stunned me for a minute, but when I recovered, we continued our conversation without interruption. Thank you for the compliment sweetheart.

I got a note from Robert the next day telling me how much he enjoyed partying with me. He and Brandon are such great guys. It is true that David has a wonderful home, but right down the street, you will find a fabulous restoration belonging to this new Spanish Town couple. It was such a treat to see the old disappear and the updated version appear. And again, I have to say what a pleasure it is to have them in the gay community here in Baton Rouge.

They are extremely nice, exceptionally sexy, and they have a swimming pool.

Wait. Wait. I truly joke here. When it comes to adding positive influence to a given place, I only have to point out what they have done and know completely how thankful I am to have had them come into my life.

There are so many other people I could talk about at the party. Johnny from Hound Dogs dropped in. Mark was there. Even Smiley Anders made an appearance. I wonder if we are going to make the local newspaper. I doubt it, but it certainly was nice to have him with us. A lot of the people I can’t name

because they were friends of neighbors. I do know that Missy was very nice. She was with Robert and Brandon. And one other sexy guy was there who deserves a lot of praise too, and it is none other than delightful Derek. It was the first chance I had to talk with him, but he is one of those silent, smoldering types that you just want to go up and hug immediately. He has that image of being extra nice, and he really did look great - sexy, somewhat reserved, but extremely friendly. I like that in a man. Maybe another encounter will happen soon.

At any rate, David, I trust this was the very best 39th birthday you ever experienced. Thank you so much for the invitation. You do the neighborhood and the community proud. I trust you have many, many more happy ones.

More Goodies

T

here was another exceptionally nice party - reception held the day before the birthday bash. It was the fifth anniversary of Raul’s ownership of El Rio Grande Restaurant. Of course the operation has been around for some 45 years, but he took over when his dad retired, and his sweetheart pulled off a wonderful surprise reception for him at the home of her parents in University Club Plantation off Nicholson Drive, past LSU and down near St. Gabriel. It was a beautiful setting with wonderful friends, great food, and all in honor of a good friend for so many years. It was a pleasure to have one of my favorite running buddies with me, none other than Little John. I do have to thank Phil for letting me borrow him for the night. In fact, the next time he goes off soldiering, why don’t we hit a bar or two? Just kidding - unless we have permission first, of course.

It was nice to see some of the annual Ambush Gay Appreciataion Awards coming to Baton Rouge. I know it was a thrill for Karen when Greg’s foundation was recognized (Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award). I loved Greg, and I’ll never forget the good times we had together. Sometimes, just the two of us, would sit at the Blue Parrott and drink, but that was fine. It was a mutual admiration society for just the two of us.

Come to think of it, whenever I recall the Blue Parrott, I think of Charlie, Paul, Mike, BC Boy, Kyle and James, that overly sexy jukebox leather stud Hanley, and so many others. And, by the way, Mia Bonet (Bitch of the Year) also came off with a nice win in the awards as did that wonderful and beautiful Nicole Foxx (Entertainer of the Year). Congratulations to you, and I hope I didn’t leave anyone out. If I did, I’ll make up for it by spotlighting you in some wonderful way in a future format. Just let me know.

But I have to move on to Luther again. He has really brightened up our dinners. It is a refreshingly new input to [continued on Expose-8]

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Trainer Walter keeps David trim and happy

Luther with Mrs. Louisiana America 2007

red stick paparazzi

My good buddy Claudette relaxing

John and Damon at Raul’s reception

Johnny from Hound Dogs at party

Missy, Brandon, Robert and Josie

Dustin, Bria, and dashingly handsome Edward

Cutie sex stud James poses with Robert

Karaoke time at George’s

Andrew and Landon at Splash

Gene and Terry at David’s birthday bash

Little Corey and Quentin Jean celebrated her birthday too

Joy and Randy at Hound Dogs

Kurt and Farris at George’s

Sexy David enjoying latest 39th

Jeannie and her famous shirt

Debbie with her hunky man child

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The Highlights ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos: Brad Benedict

A lady, a queen, and a king

Derek and Gregory at party

GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • August 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-7 of 52

mobile, the city by the bay B-Bob's Wins Awards & Sets Events Schedule

B

-Bob’s swept the awards show in July for the Lagniappe Magazine’s sixth annual Nappie awards. B-Bob’s was voted Best Gay Bar, Best Place to Shake your Booty and second place for Best Place to get Lucky! The awards are voted on by the readers of Mobile’s local nightlife magazine. This is the first time a gay bar has recieved the awards for Best Place to Shake Your Booty and Best Place to get Lucky! See LagniappeMobile.COM for more.

The Gulf Coast Bears are presenting the 13th Annual Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contest weekend August 15 thru 17.

This year’s theme is BIG RIG Trucker Bears! The event will be at B-Bob’s Downtown, 213 Conti St. The Contest is on Saturday, August 16 and is a fund-raiser that benefits South Alabama CARES, Mobile’s HIV/ AIDS outreach organization. The Gulf Coast Bear & Leather Association has contributed over $40,000 to local charities. Visit GCBLA.COM for more info.

Friday Night, August 15 is Leather Contest Night! The Southern Renegades

mobile

paparazzi

Nighlife in Mobile, Alabama

B-Bob’s bartenders Joe & Jerry

DJ Robbie C & DJ Tim Pflueger at B-Bob’s

Lewis, Cody & Kenny at B-Bob’s Frankie & Pooh hanging out at Gabriel’s

Leon & Biloxi’s Toni Dee, in her triumphant return to B-Bob’s The Wildchild Anna Rexia (aka Sean) at B-Bob’s

It’s a party at B-Bob’s with Tyler, DJ Chromatic, Frankie & Jim

Valerie Heart at B-Bob’s

group will kick the weekend off around 9pm at B-Bob’s Downtown. This year the Southern Renegades will be hosting the First Mr. Southern Renegade Mobile leather contest. The winner from this contest will be entered into the Mr. Louisiana Leather contest in New Orleans in October. We ask that you ALL wear leather or a uniform to the bar that night to represent the club!! This is a great time to meet and greet some of the out-of-town men that will be here for the weekend!! Hot men on a hot summer night!

The Southern Renegades and Gulf Coast Bear & Leather Association will be hosting fund-raising efforts that night for their clubs!

Saturday, August 16 is the Judges and Contestants Reception. The reception is from 4-7:30pm for judges, contestants, sponsors, GCBLA members and their guests! We will be gathering at the pool area at our host hotel, the Radisson Admiral Semmes Hotel, 251 Government St. The Gulf Coast Bear & Leather Association will provide food and soft drinks. The Radisson is allowing you to bring canned beer and there will be a cash bar available at the reception!

13th Annual Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contest! BIG RIG Trucker Bears! Saturday, August 16. Watch the Bears compete for cash and prizes. Dress in your favorite “Bear” attire and prepare to be entertained as HOT Burly MEN compete for the coveted title of Mr. Gulf Coast Bear 2008! The contest will begin promptly at 10pm. Judges need to be at B-Bob’s by 8:30pm and Contestants by 8:45pm.

There will be 4 categories in the competition: Judges Interview, Bear Wear, Swimwear/Boxers and Jockstrap!! This should prove to be the “HOTTEST” Bear Contest to-date!!

This contest is a fund-raising event.

It costs nothing to enter the contest.

The prizes for this event are: 1st Place - The honor of representing the Bear

Community to the World, a fabulous trophy, $150 cash and gifts galore! 2nd Place wins $50 cash.

For more info contact Jerry at BBob’s 251.433.2262, jerry@bbobs.com or gcbla@comcast.net.

If you would like to be a contestant: Please copy the Application from the website: GCBLA.COM and either email it to gcbla@comcast.net , jerry@b-bobs.com or snail mail to: Gulf Coast Bears & Leather Association, c/o B-Bob’s, 213 Conti St., Mobile, AL 36602 or fax to 251.433.2263.

Accommodations for out-of town guests are available at host hotel, Radisson Admiral Semmes Hotel. They are giving the Bears a $99 rate. Any one wanting to book a room at the Radisson will be able to call the hotel at 251.432.8000 or call central reservations at 1.800.333..3333. Ask for the Gulf Coast Bears Association Rate.

This year's sponsors include: BBob’s, Elbow Grease, Jagermiester and Barenjager Liqueur. If you are interested in helping to sponsor or help underwrite the cost of this event please e-mail Jerry@b-bobs.com or contact a GCBLA member.

hot tails of red stick ...from EX-4

next column format comes around, maybe I can tell you all about the goings-on in the Crescent City. I know I have to join Good Friends’ Joey in a separator or two. I can hardly wait.

Joey is a magnificent specimen of what manly perfection is all about.

I got an e-mail last week from Mackie, formerly of the old Mirror Lounge, and he was asking me about Jeremy. Mackie worked at Bogarts and ran around with Jeremy. My discussion of Jeremy’s death was a shock to him, and he was asking for a follow-up on Jason’s condition. I did talk to Jason recently, and he’s home, but I haven’t seen him out yet. I hope I can see him soon.

BCBoy was out in front of his apartment when I went by last week. I never realized how great he looked in black,

what Gerry and I usually discuss, so having Luther along is really a treat. Of course, I love sitting opposite him and staring at that gorgeous face, intensely beautiful smile, and listening to his gentle yet soothing laughter.

Sitting opposite someone reminds me of when I traveled with Mark Colley, back when I sponsored him as Mr. Louisiana Leather 2003. We would sit in the back of the aircraft where the seats faced each other, and that was perfect. I crotch-watched all over the country - to Dallas, to Chicago, to Washington, D.C., etc. etc. etc. It was always such a wonderful view. I guess it is getting time to pay him another visit. I’ll be going to the Big Easy in a day or so. I’ll see if he’s around. If not, I’ll settle for John, his overly sexy and beautiful other half. By the time, the

B-day Extravaganza & Beer Fest set for Vision's Twist

V

ision's Twist, 266 Dauphin Street, is getting ready for Sonja & Babette's Birthday Extravaganza on Sunday, August 17.

The big blowout brings you a beer bust and food $7, from 4-9pm. Then at 5:30pm, it's the talents of Lisa Christian live.

On Saturday, August 23 look for the International Beer Festival 6-9pm and make sure and buy your tickets in advance.

It's always fun at the club every Thursday with the talents Lady Patrice and Johnny Fung of the Rewind Band.

For more on the club, visit VisionsMobile.COM.

[continued on Expose-18]

EXPOSE'-8 of 52 • August 12-25, 2008 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • August 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-9 of 52

snap paparazzi

It’s shift change for Blake & Chris at Good Friends

Keith, Paul, Manuel & Slick cocktailin’ at Krewe of Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre

King Satyricon Scott & Jim, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre

Amon Ra Pres. Ron, Capt. Timm & Stuart, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre Dominic & Hope after a game of pool at the Phoenix

Got balls? Matt hopes you do for Karaoke at Lafitte’s every Wednesday

Mike & manager Cory do a duet for Wednesday’s Karaoke at Cafe Lafitte in Exile

You can catch DJ Johnny Love's fab sounds & videos at North America’s oldest gay bar, Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Bud & Randy having a ball at Leather Bar of the Year, Phoenix

Mwindo treasurer Larry & Ball Lt. Arnold, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre

Jalonda & Nejuam, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre

Golden Age Revue’s Regina Adams, Marcy Marcell & Zaa Zaa Delahore gettin’ ready for the show at JohnPaul’s

Society Page’s Orlando with Judicial Candidate (Criminal Court, Sec. I) Stacy Morris & Joe, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre Armeinius Capt. Charles & Mwindo’s Kelley, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre John slingin’ cocktails during the Golden Age Revue at John Paul’s

Good Friends bartenders Josh & Spencer at shift change

Petronius’ Jimmy & President Arthur with Jam & Tracy, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre

Keith & Petronius Capt. Bill, Mwindo’s Meet & Greet in Marigny Theatre

The Red Dress Run passes Ambush Headquarters on Bourbon Street

EXPOSE'-10 of 52 • August 12-25, 2008 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Bars, Krewes, Shows, Runs ~ New Orleans

Ashlee, also known as Miss Ambush, urges you to read her favorite paper at The Corner Pocket

GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • August 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-11 of 52

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, GeorgesPlaceBR.COM 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 VISION'S 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, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM 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

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

CANAL STREET

100 200 BIENVILLE

300

600

Corpus Christi, TX [361] RAMPART

BURGUNDY

500 TOULOUSE

DAUPHINE

ROYAL

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

400

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900 ST. PHILIP

1000 URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

1200 BARRACKS

1300

classifieds

ESPLANADE

1800 19 FR

23 ES TR R FR 2 A A 500 CH N K L 2 6 0 LIN YA 0 O R E LO IN H UI P SA U A D

24

00

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EN 00 C EL H 2 M YS 10 0 EN IA N FI 22 EL 00 D S

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00

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

IBERVILLE

ST. LOUIS

CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829 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 PHARE, 523 Gravier St. LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450, NapoleonsItch.COM NINTH CIRCLEAT CONGO SQUARE, 700 N. Rampart, 524.7654 OZ NEW ORLEANS, 800 Bourbon, 593.9491, OzNewOrleans. COM PHOENIX/EAGLE, 941 Elysian Fields, 945.9264, PhoenixNewOrleans.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

GET HAPPY!, 526 S. Staples, 881.8910 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 STUD FOR SENSATIONAL BODY RUBS & MORE 6am-midnite, 6'0, 182#, hard gun & magic hands. 2nd guy avail. In/Out/Hotel appointments. Call Charlie 504.430.7413 [is1808]

RT PA M RA

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

bookstores 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 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]

employment New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS is accepting applications for energetic employees. Drug test/ background check required. Apply at 515 Toulouse St. HELP WANTED-Experienced line cooks and prep cooks, management skills a plus.

EXPOSE'-12 of 52 • August 12-25, 2008 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Apply 2-4pm Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri. at Bywater Restarant, Deli & BBQ, 3162. Dauphine St.

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

laundries 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 [is1608]

lodging/accommodations Birmingham, AL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, GayAmerica.COM Mobile, AL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, GayAmerica.COM Ft. Lauderdale, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS, GayAmerica.COM Ft. Walton Beach, FL DISCOUNT FLIGHTS,

HOTELS, CARS, HOTELS, CARS,

HOTELS, CARS, 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.

DAUPHINE ORLEANS HOTEL, 415 Rue Dauphine, New Orleans, LA 70112, Toll Free: 800.521.7111, DauphineOrleans.COM, E-mail us at Sales@dauphineorleans.com. The historic Dauphine Orleans Hotel, steps from Bourbon Street in the French Quarter, boasts quiet intimate surroundings featuring several beautiful courtyards; including our outdoor saltwater pool area. All rooms include complimentary deluxe continental breakfast, welcome cocktail and hi speed internet access. Secure onsite parking is available. Mention Ambush and receive 15% off prevailing rate.

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

GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • August 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-13 of 52

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 [is1708]

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 very friendly. 35, 5'10", 175#, USDA Prime! In/out/hotels, 24/7. Playgirl, Inches & Freshmen Magazine model. Pics at m4rn.com, ID #190508, 504.756.9443 [is1708]

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 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.

music lessons New Orleans [504] PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS - Private music instruction available in my French Quarter studio! Piano, Theory and Composition are offered at all levels. Now accepting students for fall session. DON RUSSELL 504.259.6173. www.DonRussellMusic.com [is1808]

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, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org 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 Resi-

dence 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

EXPOSE'-14 of 52 • August 12-25, 2008 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

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 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

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 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 Tomatillo's Restaurant, 437 Esplanade Ave., 945.9997

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 Dallas, TX [214] CLUB DALLAS, 2616 Swiss Ave., 821.1990, www.the-clubs.com Houston, TX [713] CLUB HOUSTON, 2205 Fannin St., 659.4998, www.the-clubs.com

retail/shopping

tattoos/piercings

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

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

Austin, TX [512] 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

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

Classifieds & Personals Advertising Order Form Name:___________________________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Phone:_______________________________Date:_______________________ Classified Ad Categories: __Attorneys __Bars __Bookstores __Casinos__Employment __For Rent __For Sale __Galleries __Groceries/Delis __Hair Salons __Lodging/Accommodations __Laundries __Massage/Escorts __Messages __Organizations __Personals __Photography __Restaurants __Retail Sales __Roommates __Services __Spas __Travel __Other [Please Specify______________] [All information on this form remains STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL] AD PRICES: NAME:___________________________________ ___.__$30.00 for 30 words ___.__25¢ for each additional word CARD #:_________________________________ ___.__$5.00 for large bold headline ___.__$5.00 for boxed border EXPIRATION DATE:_________________________ ___.__Sub-Total x ____ [Times Run] = ___.__TOTAL ENCLOSED SIGNATURE:______________________________ Include ad copy below, fax to 504.522.0907 or e-mail to info@ambushmag.com with credit card info, or mail with total payment [Please Print] to AMbush Classifieds, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137.

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • August 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-15 of 52

acadiana

paparazzi

Erin bartending at Sound Factory Steven in his favorite mask at Sound Factory

A masked Anthony bartending at Back Side Joe getting wild at Sound Factory

Cat taking a break on the Back Side

Gordon working the door at Sound Factory

Eddie hanging out at Sound Factory

Hunter, always smiling at Back Side Travis is festive at Back Side

Holly hanging out at Back Side

Chris is all decked out for work at Back Side

Macky at his Going Away Party at Sound Factory

A masked Mark at Back Side

Darius celebrating Wild Wednesday at Sound Factory

Ryan and Brodie at Sound Factory

Patrick playing pool at Back Side

John and John partying at Sound Factory

Stephanie looking magnificent at Sound Factory

Jeremy partying at Back Side

EXPOSE'-16 of 52 • August 12-25, 2008 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Celebrating End of Summer ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos: Patrick Clinton

Jeffrey showing his Wild Wednesday spirit at Sound Factory

GayBatonRouge.BIZ • GayNewOrleans.COM • GayPensacola.COM • GayAmerica.COM • August 12-25, 2008 • EXPOSE' EXPOSE'-17 of 52

allons acadiana

by Patrick Clinton Email: BlondAtULL@aol.com

T

he countdown is on to the official end of Summer. In just under three weeks, UL Lafayette will begin its Fall semester, which means there’ll be a huge influx of new people to welcome to Acadiana and its unforgettable nightlife. And of course, there’ll be those always unforgettable Back To School parties. What a way to end what has become the wildest summer Downtown Lafayette has ever known.

In the meantime, make sure you take advantage of Sound Factory and Back Side’s unbeatable Summer Lineup. The Sound Factory and Back Side have really raised the bar on quality entertainment this whole summer.

By making sure every night of the week has something incredible going on, they have shown that those often boring week-nights can be just as much fun as a Friday or Saturday, and the tradition will continue as we head into Autumn.

The Sound Factory and Back Side are open seven days a week, and the good times are only surpassed by the enthusiasm and creativity they put into

keeping their weekly lineup as fresh as ever. The week kicks off every Monday and never slows until it all begins again seven days later.

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 on 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. Chad has as much personality as he does talent.

His charisma really breathes new life into the karaoke experience. And he doesn’t limit the kinds of music he offers. He has everything from oldies and country to dance and rap.

Wednesdays are now Wild Wednesdays at Sound Factory, with a special Theme Party every other week. So far, this has been even more spectacular than anticipated.

The first Wild Wednesday was a Luau Party, and it was a real celebra-

Giant Souther n Southern Decadence bor Da y Decadence,, La Labor Day Wknd. Issue Next

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504.522.8049 tion of the summer spirit. There were people wearing everything from swimsuits to straw skirts, not to mention, everybody who walked in the door was given a complimentary lei. Now that’s what I call spreading good cheer.

Since then there has been a Military Party, a White Party, a Beach Party, and a full blown Masquerade, as well as many others. And the party will continue all summer long. 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. And tomorrow night, August 13, to continue the tradition, they are hosting a Pajama Party so grab your favorite nightly or set of pj’s and get ready for an incredible party. It’ll definitely be a night to remember.

But the week doesn’t stop there.

Thursdays are Thirsty Thursday, and while I’m not going to print the specifics, I can assure you it involves 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.

I know many of you college students are down about the beginning of school, but think of the bright side; it’ll give you an excuse to have one last big blowout before classes begin. And if I know one thing, I’m sure Sound Factory and Back Side will be hosting a Back To School Party that’ll quickly make you forget all your worries. Just keep your eyes peeled for more details.

Until next time, have fun and be safe. I’ll see you around the Downtown.

hot tails of red stick ...from EX-8

the straight guys who come in for a peek. That doesn’t surprise me at all.

I can probably tell you in advance that they are mostly the married ones too.

Don’t these women know how to satisfy their men?

The place is called Hypolite’s Antiques and is located on Weller, one block off Plank Road. In fact, Sam accompanied me to Lafayette today, and we made our way through Breaux Bridge for lunch at this great little French restaurant, Chez Jacquelines. She is really from France, so you get French along with your Cajun foods, a nice combination. It was wonderful, and so were the antique shops. It was a nice little diversion to our daily routines. With the tropical storm out in the Gulf, we noticed a little wind and some rain, but mainly it was a rather calm trip and nice drive through the countryside.

I guess that is about it for another week. I dropped in on the bars here, and they were all buzzing with activity. Sexy photographer Ben was busy at Splash.

Joy was a delight at Hound Dogs. And of course, you know I had to go and check out Luther. My goodness! I have to go. Just thinking of him gets me all worked up. See y’all later.

but the tight pants and equally tight black T-shirt really looked good on him.

Maybe he took my advice about showing off a little of that sexy body. It all came about when he joined the bicycle club and has to wear these short, short shorts. He was complaining about how short they were, and I told him that he had it and needed to flaunt it more. To hell with those damned baggy shorts that cover the knees. Do like the sexy birthday boy of Bungalow Lane, and show a little skin. I hate this current style of low hangers. Give me a cowboy with tight jeans and a little bulge showing, or a sexy man with a little flesh in view. Hopefully, I’ll see just that when I head out for Tucson and Tombstone on a little trip later on. I’m hoping for a rodeo or something like that, but I can assure you that I won’t be looking at other tourists. Those tight jeans will identify the locals immediately.

I checked out some of the movies and books that Sam has in his antique shop. I’ve told you before that he got lots of items from Hibiscus Bookstore, and he has a XXX section in one corner of the shop. He is constantly surprised at all

EXPOSE'-18 of 52 • August 12-25, 2008 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • GayBars.COM • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

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one last song

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

A Time For Adjustment: Part Two

H

e walked the sultry streets of the French Quarter as twilight began to fall. It was late August and there was a rather heavy although quick shower just before he left the small apartment he had rented. The air was heavy, pressing down upon him; he hadn’t even walked a full three blocks before he felt as if he needed another shower. He felt more as if he had been swimming through the thick air more than walking, but that is New Orleans in August.

He supposed that the native populace was use to it, and though he was from a tropical climate also, somehow the humidity never seemed to get to him like this, perhaps it was the breezes that swept in from across the Atlantic and the bay that made if feel more comfortable in Coral Gables. What ever the reason the humidity was oppressive in New Orleans in August.

He strolled leisurely down to Royal Street and made a right onto Saint Peter and headed for Jackson Square.

He stopped to read the bills of advertising at Le Petite Theatre du Vieux Carre, some musical or another was playing and he made a mental note to go see it next weekend. He crossed the street into Jackson Square with its assembly or tarot card readers, musicians and street performers, all hard at work looking for a few coins from the small groups of tourists wandering around. He paid no attention to their barking at him to stay for a song, a reading or perhaps to have a sketch done in charcoal, by a hungry artist, whom displayed some of his work hanging on the iron fence surrounding the center of the square.

He stopped momentarily in front of Saint Louis Cathedral and made the sign of the cross. Something of a religious nature installed in him as a youngster compelled him to do so. He held back the urge to genuflect, turned and went into the garden area, to cut through to the street running along the river.

Halfway around the inner circle of the garden he noticed him. A young man sitting in the dimming light, his arms outstretched across the back of the bench, his head tilted back as if he was about to fall asleep. Sitting on the bench at his side, was a duffle bag and a backpack, bulging with contents. Must be all his worldly belongings, he thought to himself, and almost erasing the picture from his mind at once continued on his way out of the park and down the street towards Maximo’s, a favorite restaurant of his.

Once inside the restaurant, the

cool air caressing his face, he felt alive once again. The restaurant was rather empty this particular evening and he sat at the chef’s counter, ordered his rack of lamb, medium, a pasta salad and a glass of white wine.

As he was sipping his wine, thinking of nothing in particular, just gazing at nothing, he noticed from the corner of his eye the same young man he had seen almost asleep on the bench. At first he didn’t pay to much attention, but when the guy stopped and set his bag down to begin starting to read the menu posted in the window, next to the door.

He smiled to himself as if to suggest that there was nothing on the menu of the day for him, or at least that he could afford to purchase. Then much to his surprise, he picked up his bag and entered the front door, where he was immediately stopped by the closest waiter, whom engaged him in conversation at once. He wished he was sitting closer where he could hear what was being said, but his was not with in earshot, so all he could do was try to imagine it, from the body language he was seeing. Finally the young man took out his wallet and flashed some bills at the waiter, who though rather reluctant to do so, seated him in an empty booth closest to the door The youngster tossed his bag in first and then sat down next to it. Smiling to himself, and took the menu offered by the waiter, opened it, scanned it and must have ordered, as the waiter was frantically writing on his order pad.

The waiter came over next to where he was sitting at the chef’s counter, hung up the order and gently tapped the bell.

He could not help but engage the waiter in small talk. “Some people?” he started as a question nodding his head in the direction of where the young man sat as to indicate who he meant.

“Well!” the waiter replied smugly “I guess his money spends as well as anyone’s, it is the off season you know.”

And he fled not wishing to carry the conversation any further. He disappeared behind a waiters stand and then went back to the booth carrying an iced tea.

Kevin could not help sneaking a peak at the younger man across the restaurant every now and then. Finally the younger guy caught him staring at him and smiled broadly back. At first Kevin was nothing but embarrassed, but then burring his ignorance for having done so and been caught, he smiled back. The young man threw his head back, and feigned sleep for a moment, then pantomimed a hearty laugh. So Kevin had been caught staring then as well, he smiled again and nodding his in

the affirmative to admit he had done so.

It was then that the waiter brought the young man his food, and ignoring anything else Kevin might have been trying to convey, he dug right into it like a man who hadn’t eaten in a week. Kevin finished off his meal and ordered another bottle of wine, suddenly the thought hit him that he should maybe invite the guy from the park to join him in a glass, but when he looked over to beckon him all he saw was the back of him exiting the restaurant and headed back where he had come from. Disappointed that he had not acted sooner, he none the less quietly sat and polished of the bottle himself.

When he finally did leave Maximo’s, he was weaving ever so slightly heading back in the direction from whence he came. All along the street he was pestered by pan-handlers, some with their dogs on ropes and leashes, some with just their friends hanging out with them.

Why did so many of them travel with the dogs? Someone had told him at one time, and he couldn’t remember who for anything, that the dogs were to keep them from being hassled by the police, because it was too much trouble getting a hold of the SPCA to pick the animals up. Wither this was a fact or not, he had no way of knowing, he only knew the street kids had a bevy of dogs.

The first few who asked for spare change, got what he had in his pockets, and when it was gone he just held his palms outstretched and upward to indicate he had none. Nobody Mf’…ed him, but just nodded their heads that they understood, and waited for the next passerby.

Now as he entered Jackson Square and the park in the center of it, he realized that he was indeed staggering, the wine had finally taken its toll on him.

He could make out a figure sitting here and there, but not so well as to identify one from the other. He was passing the third bench, when the figure spoke to him. “You better sit for a spell, the cops are patrolling tonight and you don’t want them to see you swaying on your feet like that.”

He sat down, “I guess you're right.”

He said as a matter of thanks and then squinting to get a better look saw that it was the young man whom he was addressing.

"That was kind of you,” he smiled after a minute or two of silence.

“I was just stating a fact, that’s all.”

The young man smiled back, brushing a strand of hair from in front of his eyes.

“I hate to see anyone carted off to spend the night in jail. Especially, someone who more than likely has a nice place to lay down their head.”

Kevin shook his head in disbelief, this guy sounded like he was coming on to him, more than likely a hustler, a rent boy that was all it was. He has spotted him, staring down at him on the way to dinner, recognized him in Maximos, and after eating came back here waiting for him. That could only be the logical

reasoning behind this.

The young man sensed something almost at once; he had encountered it many times before. “I’m no hustler, if that’s what you’re thinking. I left home when my dad found out I was gay. He wasn’t too happy with that, so he sent me packing with some cash to live my life. I’ve been working my way towards California; I just can’t blow what I have on fancy rooms or nothing like that. I need my money for when I get to where I’m going to settle.”

“I wasn’t thinking that…”, but the young man cut him off.

“Sure you were I could read it in your eyes, on your face, that just what you were thinking.”

Kevin bowed his head remorsefully, “Sorry, I guess I was. I was just thinking that must have been the reason you talked to someone my age.”

“You aren’t old.”

“Compared to you I am.”

“Hell I’m eighteen, legal age.”

“Not for drinking.”

“It was only iced tea.” He started to laugh, his laughter was contagious and Kevin joined right in with him.

“You're eighteen, you sure.”

“Sure I’m sure I ought to know how old I am.”

“I supposed I was a little younger than you are now when I started.”

“Started what?”

“Do I have to draw it all out?”

The young man winked, “My name is Dale.”

Kevin took his hand “I’m Kevin.”

Dale drew Kevin in closer to him on the bench and kissed him, causing someone to yell from behind the bushes, “Get a room, before you get us all busted.”

“Just one thing.”

“What’s that?”

“I’m not just starting.” With that Dale stood up helping Kevin to his feet and slinging his bag over the other shoulder said, “You’ll have to lead the way, I have no idea where in the hell we’re headed.”

“My dear boy, we are off to dance the dance fantastic to ONE LAST SONG.” And slowly Kevin led the way.

To be continued...

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