Ambush magazine volume 27 issue 01

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 1

2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

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the "official" dish

by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain RipandMarsha.COM E-mail: marsha@ripandmarsha.com

Ambush Mag Celebrates 27th Anniversary, 1982-2009

W

ith this first edition of 2009, Ambush Mag moves into its 27th year of service to the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender community of the Gulf South. Ambush had its humble beginnings in Baton Rouge, Louisiana first launching in 1982.

Moving to New Orleans in 1985, Ambush set up shop on world famous Bourbon Street, and expanded to cover the huge Gulf South market from Texas to Florida.

Ambush owes an eternal debt of gratitude to its many advertisers whose support have kept the Gulf THE OFFICIAL MAG South's oldest surviving GLBT tabloid in business. Ambush would also like to express its thanks to its staff and its numerous readers both GulfSouthEntertainment/TravelGuideSince in print and on-line across the Gulf 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide South who continue to patronize Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide the publication.

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: marsha@ripandmarsha.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 - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Jackson Texas - Austin, Dallas, Houston

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 Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Donnie Jay-New Orleans DJ Chromatic, David Long, 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: marsha@ripandmarsha.com, except for special holidays. 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. ©1982-2009, 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

Royal Leather Tea Sunday, Jan. 11

T

he Lords of Leather announce the second annual Royal Leather Tea to be held on Sunday, Jan. 11 at JohnPaul’s in the Victorian Parlors in New Orleans. Join the members of the Lords from 2-5pm in honoring Lord King XXV and Lord Consort XXV as they begin the final weeks of their reign before presiding over Bal Masque XXVI. La Madeliene is co-sponsoring and catering the event. Admission is by a $10 donation and includes champagne and hors d’ oeuvres.

This year the krewe will also be honoring the reigning monarchs from other local and regional gay Mardi Gras krewes. Invited to attend and be feted are the royalty from Amon Ra, Armeinius, Mwindo, Petronius, Queenateenas, Satyricon, Apollo Baton Rouge, Apollo Birmingham, and Apollo Shreveport.

The Lords will also be auctioning gaily decorated Mardi Gras wreaths and are holding a raffle for a table at Bal Masque XXVI which will be held Sunday, Feb. 22 at the Alario Center in Westwego, LA. More information about both events can be found at the Lords of Leather website LordsOfLeather.COM.

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

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26th Mardi Gras Classic Jan. 16-18

David Wagner, PhD, LPC, NCC, CHT

V

olleyball New Orleans is proud to present the 26th annual Mardi Gras Classic Invitational Tournament celebrating Voodoo Magic.

Always held on MLK weekend,

the activities begin Friday, Jan. 16 with registration and ends on Sunday, Jan. 18 with the Awards Banquet and Party. Numerous teams with loads of players are coming in from across North America.

Super Bowl XLIII, KCQ Coronation Edition due out Tues., Jan. 20

inside

celebrazzi 5 12th night ball paparazzi 8 sixth annual ambie awards 10 the pink pastor 11 spotlight/edmund white 12 cookin' with auntie dee 14 snap paparazzi/new orleans 16 snap paparazzi/new orleans 18 spotlight/6th ambie awards 19 king cake queen of gay mardi gras 21

DEADLINE: Tuesday, Jan. 13 10th gay easter parade 38th southern decadence ambush paparazzi/new orleans classifieds one last song allons acadiana/lafayette hot tails of red stick/baton rouge acadiana paparazzi/lafayette red stick paparazzi/baton rouge pensacola/mobile paparazzi

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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22 22 23 26 30 31 31 32 36 38

A portion of the proceeds benefits the PFLAG scholarship fund.

Volleyball New Orleans is hoping to raise enough funds to give to additional charities as well this year.

Over the past 25 years of the Mardi Gras Classic, the tournament has given over $50,000 to local charities and various organizations.

For more information, visit volleyballneworleans.com.

celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

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apoleon’s Itch Bar Barons Chuck Robinson and Ron Julian join Sandy Vee Anderson as Dolly Parton live at the club’s giant New Year’s Eve bash in New Orleans. Sandy was joined by the talents of Carlos Saenz, and the club treated guests to both acts with no cover charge as usual.

H

edda Lettuce, direct from New York City, was a show stopper performing her comedic routine at Voila on the Decatur Street strip in New Orleans. Princesse Stephaney directs the Goodtime Girls every Thursday at 8pm. Several notables were in the audience including Queen Amon Ra Opal Masters, Petronius Captain Bill McCarthy, King Satyicon I Ted Jeansonne and Queen Satyricon VI Carl Mack.

G

olden Lantern Bar Baron Rick Goulet joins famous photographer Larry Graham of GrahamStudioOne.COM for the unveiling of the newly renovated Tubby’s Golden Lantern New Year’s Eve in New Orleans. The side room has been opened up with an extension of the bar, a stage area, new bathrooms and more seating space.

T

eryl-Lynn Foxx and Carlos Butler celebrate with Miss Ashlee (center) for her giant birthday bash at The Corner Pocket in New Orleans.

Guests traveled in from Mississippi and Louisiana to toast Ashlee and enjoy her scrumptious buffet.

Q

ueen and King Satyricon VII-Elect Wedon and Richard were presented at the 7th Annual 12th Night Ball hosted by the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon in New Orleans. The festive event was held at The Country Club who also catered the affair. Royalty from fellow krewes were in attendance including the Krewe’s of Amon Ra, Armeinius, Lords of Leather, Petronius and Queenateenas. The Satyricon Bal Masque VII is Sunday, Feb. 15 at The Sugar Mill. For more information, visit MysticKreweOfSatyricon.COM.

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Gloria & June with friends Krewe of Amon Ra’s Jerry & Kenny flank Jim

Satyricon Capt. Mickey & Treasurer Ted

ambush

paparazzi

The Running With Scissors Gang

King Amon Ra XLIII Paul Davis & King Cake Queen XVI-Elect Tami Tarmac

Queen Petronius XLVIII-Elect Freddie & King Petronius XLVII Charles Alex, Dick & Dale

Tim & Chris Mary, Ty, Dietrich & Paul

12th Night Queen ’08 Karen, new 12th Night Queen ’09 June & Capt. Mickey

Lords of Leather Pres. Gary, Lord King XXV Michael & Capt. David

Sadie & Jack

King Satyricon VI Scott & Jim

James & Curtis

King Cake Queen XIV Princesse Stephaney & Sam

David, Patti Le Plae Safe, Queen Amon Ra XLIII Opal Masters & Ronnie

A friend joins Amon Ra Capt. Timm & King Amon Ra XLII George

Michelle, King Satyricon V Tony, Mom Dawn & Jill

8 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Richard & Joe with friends

Satyricon’s 7th Annual 12th Night Ball hosted at The Country Club ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Satyricon

Gay Carnival Royalty including Satyricon, Petronius, Armeinius, Amon Ra & Lords of Leather

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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

Every New Year is the direct descendant, isn’t it, of a long line of proven criminals? --Ogden Nash

T

he above sentiment is probably held by many people as we approach the start of 2009 – it has not been an entirely good year for anyone with any financial interests, or indeed anyone who bought a house at the height of the housing bubble; I however am going to revel in the fact that 2009 is a year I am looking forward to with

the same joy that I look back at 2008. You see, I have no financial investments (nothing to invest!) and did not buy a house, but that is not why I am overjoyed, it is because my life has attained a greater sense of purpose since I was given the opportunity to serve here in New Orleans than I have ever known before.

I have had periods in my life when I was doing a job I enjoyed, I have worked as a garden designer, a hospice chaplain, an artist, and have studied medicine, but I have

‘This is not me in drag’

never had the same sense of spiritual fulfilment I have found here. If I felt this was a personal achievement I wouldn’t be writing about it – it would be bragging, but instead I am convinced that this is something freely available to all, and it is this belief that brought me here in the first place. Now, if the mention of the word Christ brings you out in hives stop reading here!

I am unashamedly a Christian minister, and will proclaim with my last breath that Christ stood for universal love and deliverance – and that love and deliverance was proclaimed especially to those who the religious establishment of his day persecuted and ignored. I am also absolutely sure that if that phenomena, that mystery we call Jesus Christ had lived today he would be reaching out into our community as he did to the Samaritans and the eunuchs 2000 years ago.

Understanding the central person of the Christian faith is fraught with problems – we understand there is something extraordinary in the person of Jesus Christ, but because the God part of the ‘Man shaped God’ that is Jesus is utter mystery to us our language and our expression breaks down when faced with spiritual experience. This does not make that experience invalid; it merely places it so far outside of our usual mundane reference points that we don’t know where to put it.

The Christian Gospels are something we have very little experience of today – they are not history. They are not biography, they are epiphany, they are theophany, [continued on 12]

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 11

spotlight Literary Icon Edmund White to Appear Jan. 17

O

the pink pastor ...from 11

and they are apocalypse. What all these three words mean is an ‘outshining’ (Greek epi – phanos) of the nature of God – a glimpse of the mind of the God that created this planet however many billions of years ago. They deal with a truth that is not dependant upon historical details or even biographical accuracy, they are true myth, something life-changing and redemptive, but something that exists within a context that is all their own. They speak to us of a truth that is not dependant upon the sort of corroborative details that a court of law demands; they speak truth in the same way that a parable speaks truth – on many many different lev-

els, not just the surface level.

Why am I getting all preachy?

Well, C.S. Lewis said, ‘God cannot offer your any happiness or fulfilment apart for himself, because it does not exist’. This means that all true joy, all lasting happiness is nestled within the nature of God, and when we express something of that nature in love, in kindness, in compassion – we gain access to that true lasting happiness. If I counselled any way of life that did not point to that well spring of all joy and fulfilment I would be deceiving people and leading them astray. I must be honest – in the words of a brother MCC pastor of mine – ‘You need Jesus!’

There, I have now totally divorced myself from lukewarm, wishy washyness – from the approach to Christianity that thinks that you can only accommodate the GLBT community by diluting the faith until it is thin enough to stretch where you want it to go – I actually believe that it is by strengthening the ‘Christ’ bit of Christianity that we find love and inclusion, and by abandoning the vast mass of extraneous doctrine and hate mongering addons that have formed the ‘religion’ that calls itself Christianity but in truth has very little to do with Christ.

I hope and pray that I can have the privilege of another year in New Orleans as pastor of this wonderful church, and that 2009 is an even better year than 2008!

12 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

n Saturday, Jan. 17 at 2pm, at the ArtServe auditorium, 1350 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Stonewall Library & Archives will host a lecture by literary icon Edmund White.

Novelist, playwright, courageous memoirist, short story writer and definitive biographer of writers Rimbaud, Genet and Proust, White is one of the preeminent writers of post-Stonewall gay literature.

White’s best-known work is A Boy’s Own Story, the first volume of an autobiographical-fiction series that continued with The Beautiful Room Is Empty and The Farewell Symphony, vividly portraying stages in the life of a gay man from boyhood to middle age. Several characters in these latter two novels are recognizably based on wellknown individuals from White’s New York-centered literary and artistic milieu, many of whom were fellow members of the Violet Quill, a gay writer’s group that met briefly from 1980-1981 and included, among others, Andrew Holleran, Felice Picano, and Robert Ferro.

Complex and immensely literate, White has also been influential as a literary and cultural critic, particularly on gay issues. He has received many awards and distinctions; among these, he is a Member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, an Officier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, and a Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Please join the organization for this rare chance to meet Mr. White.

The author will be available after the presentation for book signing.

The event will include light refreshments and is free and open to the public.

Stonewall is located at 1300 East Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. Our mission is to collect, preserve, organize for use and display materials related to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender culture and history; support related research and sponsor cultural and educational programs.

Funding for this organization is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council.

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 13

cookin' with auntie dee

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

Soups On

L

et's see now, it is December 26th, the day after Christmas, today the temperature reached the eighty degree mark, tied the high, and I’m writing a recipe column on soup.

Either I’m nuts or physic and know that many a cold front will soon head our way, and there is nothing on a cold winters night like that crusty French bread and a hot bowl of soup.

HOT AND SOUR SOUP

1 (5-ounce) package dried wood ear mushrooms 1 cup fresh sliced mushrooms 3 (14 ½-ounce) cans chicken broth 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger 1 (8-ounce) can bamboo shoots, drained and cut into thin strips 3 tablespoons rice vinegar 3 tablespoons soy sauce ¼ teaspoon hot sauce ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 egg white, lightly beaten 3 green onions, sliced ½ (16-ounce) package firm tofu, drained well and cut into cubes 1 tablespoon corn starch ¼ cup water Rehydrate wood ear mushrooms according to package instructions, chop coarsely. Combine mushrooms, broth and ginger in a Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Add bamboo shoots, reduce heat and simmer five minutes. Add rice vinegar and next three ingredients return slowly to a boil. Slowly stir egg whites into soup, stirring constantly.

Stir in green onions and tofu. Combine cornstarch and water, stirring until smooth. Add to soup and return to boil; boil one minute stirring gently. Serve hot.

MULLIGATAWNY SOUP

Yes, this is a repeat from a column about three years ago, but I have had several requests to repeat it so here the hell it is. Actually this is a rather quick version of the original I published. It takes less than an hour to make.

½ cup diced onion 1 cup diced celery 1 cup diced carrot 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon curry powder 1 (32-ounce) carton chicken broth 1 ½ cups diced cooked chicken 1 bay leaf 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest ½ cup half and half, warmed 1 ¼ cups hot cooked rice ¼ cup flaked coconut Sauté the first three ingredients in hot oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until tender. Stir in flour and curry powder; cook three minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add broth, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer fifteen minutes uncovered. Add chicken and next five ingredients, simmer uncovered another fifteen minutes.

Discard bay leaf. Stir in warm half and half. Ladle soup over rice in individual bowls. Top with coconut.

POT LIQUOR SOUP

2 pounds fresh collard greens ¾ pound smoked ham hocks 1 (1 ½ pound) ham steak, chopped 2 tablespoons hot sauce 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 medium onions, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 6 red potatoes, diced 3 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth 2 (15.8-ounce) cans field peas with snaps 2 (15.8 ounce ) cans crowder peas, rinsed and drained 2 cups water ½ cup dry vermouth 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon salt Remove and discard stems and discolored spots from collards; rinse with cold water. Drain; tear collards into one-inch pieces. Bring collards, ham hocks and water and cover to boil in a large Dutch oven.

Remove from heat; drain. Repeat

procedure. Set aside. Toss together chopped ham and hot sauce; cook in hot oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat for six minutes. Add onion and garlic; sauté until tender.

Stir in collards, ham hocks, diced potatoes, and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stir occasionally, for forty-five minutes. Remove meat from ham hocks. Return meat to soup. Discard bones.

KENTUCKY BURGOO

1 (4 to 5 pound) hen 2 pounds beef or veal stew meat 2 pounds beef or veal bones 1 celery rib with leaves, cut into one inch pieces 1 carrot, cut into one inch pieces 1 small onion, quartered 1 (six-ounce) can tomato paste 12 cups water 1 red chili pepper pod 1 ½ teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons ground black pepper ½ teaspoon ground red pepper 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 6 onions, finely chopped 1 turnip, peeled and chopped 8 tomatoes, peeled and chopped 2 green peppers, finely chopped 2 cups butter beans 2 cups thinly sliced celery 2 cups finely chopped cabbage 2 cups sliced fresh okra 2 cups fresh cut corn Combine first fourteen ingredients in a large Dutch oven. Bring to a boil; cover, reheat, and simmer one hour. Cool. Strain meat mixture, reserving meat and liquid; discard vegetables. Remove skin, gristle and meat from bones; finely chop meat. Return meat and liquid to Dutch oven; cover and chill eight hours. Discard fat layer on mixture; add onions and remaining ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, three hours, stirring often to prevent sticking. This recipe will serve a crowd or you can easily freeze the extra.

PEPPERED BEEF SOUP

1 (4 pound) sirloin tip beef roast ½ cup all-purpose flour 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced 6 garlic cloves, minced 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced 1 (16-ounce) package baby carrots

14 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

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

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2 (12-ounce) bottles lager beer 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes 1 tablespoon beef bouillon granules 3 teaspoons freshly ground pepper 4 bay leaves salt to taste Rinse beef roast and pat dry.

Cut a one inch deep cavity in the shape of an “X” on top of roast (do not cut all the way through). Dredge roast in flour; shake off excess. Cook roast in hot oil in dutch oven over medium-high heat one to two minutes on each side or until lightly browned. Place roast in a six quart slow cooker. Stuff cavity with sliced red onion and garlic; top roast with potatoes and carrots. Pour beer, balsamic vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce into slow cooker.

Sprinkle with parsley, bouillon and pepper. Add bay leaves to liquid.

Cover and cook on low seven hours or until fork tender. Remove bay leaves. Shred meat using two fork.

Season with salt to taste.

Keep warm on these cold coming nights.

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 15

snap paparazzi

Michael, Shawn & Frankie slingin’ cocktails New Year’s Eve at Lafitte's

Hot Bois dancin’ in the New Year at Oz

Allen, Nick & Tommy pop in to Good Friends Bar New Year's Eve

Mr. Josie Mae Cotton ringin’ in the New Year at Lafitte’s in her size 8s Debi & Monroe celeb Flossie take in Donnie Jay’s New Year’s Eve Show at Tubby's Golden Lantern

Donnie Jay, Vanessa Carmichael, Rikki Redd, Entertainer of the Year Elizabeth Bouvier & Todd Blauvelt (front) headline the first show at the all new Tubby's Golden Lantern

One of those hot Men of Manwatch on the bar at Oz

Shawn’s a show stopper at Oz New Year’s Eve

Napoleon Itch’s Chuck Robinson with mega star Sandy Vee Anderson as Dolly Parton live at the Itch

Lester & Ernst grab a cocktail at Golden Lantern’s New Year’s Eve Show

Le Roundup’s Collette Ambrose joins Jessica Starr & Pernisha Starr at her club

John & Stephen behind the bar at Double Play

Jerry & Jim New Year’s Eve at Oz

Jimmy, Bartender of the Year Lance & Will sling cocktails New Year’s Eve at Tubby's Golden Lantern

Miss Carol slingin’ cocktails at Le Roundup

Good Friends' Justin, Manager Cameron, Sammy & Blake

DJ Tim Pflueger spins New Year’s Eve at Dance Club of the Year Oz

Frank Pizzolato & Wood Enterprises’ GM Ken Grandpre outside Good Friends New Year's Eve

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Melissa & Mother Moses ringin’ it in at Double Play

Ringing in the New Year ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush

Popping in for the Donnie Jay's New Year’s Eve Show at Golden Lantern

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 17

Don holding Jack during Happy Hour at The Friendly Bar

Petronius Captain Bill joins Princesse Stephaney at Voila for The Goodtime Girls featuring Hedda Lettuce direct from NYC

Lisa Beaumann hosts New Year’s Eve at The Corner Pocket

Dennis, Ashlee & Miller Rib’s David from Hattiesburg celebratin’ Ashlee’s B-day

Ron slingin’ cocktails at Rawhide 2010

King Satyricon I Ted & Queen Satyricon VI Carl pop in for the Hedda Lettuce show at Voila

Bar Baron Michael Elias welcomes guests to the Pocket New Year’s Eve

snap paparazzi

Mr. Patti Le Plae Safe shows off her baby bump following Voila’s Hedda Lettuce show at Good Friends Bar

Cat-eyes cuddlin’ with Sandra & Teryl-Lynn for Miss Ashlee’s B-day at the Pocket

Troy works the door New Year’s Eve at The Corner Pocket

Dennis behind the bar at JohnPaul’s

Darwin, Queen Amon Ra - Mr. Opal Masters & Rodd grab a cocktail at Good Friends Bar

Miss Benuviti joins Ashlee & Linda for Ashlee’s B-day at The Corner Pocket

Nawlins Flava Chef Joy cocktailin’ at Starlight By The Park Mark & John pop in for cocktails at JohnPaul’s

Big Daddy’s Lester & Rodney cocktailin’ at The Friendly Bar

Marsha’s (center) look of horror as she’s snagged by Paul & John at JohnPaul’s

Josh on the bar New Year’s Eve at The Corner Pocket

18 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Bar Baron Javier serving up your favorite brew at Starlight

Birthdays, Cocktailin’, Slingin’ ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush

Miss Ashlee showing off her pretty legs during her b-day bash at The Corner Pocket

Specializing in Historic Properties Full-time Licensed Realtor for 12 years French Quarter Property Owner To Buy, Sell, or Lease, call Mary Lind!

Phone 504.948.3011 or 504.581.2020

in the spotlight The Sixth Annual Ambie Awards

by Brian Sands & Patrick Shannon 008 saw heartbreaking tragedy, outra geous comedy, searing drama...and not all of it was at City Hall! Rather, with over a hundred productions from Jefferson Parish to St. Bernard, from Orleans to St. Tammany, we were kept very busy this past year as the theatrical community—actors, writers, directors, designers, technicians—in the greater New Orleans area continued to amaze and impress us in these still-challenging times.

In recognition of the outstanding work done in the past twelve months, we are delighted to announce the nominees for the Sixth Annual Ambie Awards. It is a measure of the vibrancy of our local theater scene that no fewer than 56 productions have been honored with at least one nomination. As always, the Ambies are totally subjective, occasionally arbitrary, inclusive only of the shows we saw (sorry to all others) and not at all validated by Price Waterhouse. Congratulations to all our nominees who have trod the boards during these extraordinary times with steadfast dedication, bodacious imagination and boundless talent.

Sponsored by Ambush Magazine, the Ambies will be presented at Le Chat Noir on Monday, February 9 and we hope that all nominees will be able to attend. There will be a slight,

2

suggested admission charge with the net proceeds being donated to NOCCA’s Theater Department. Please spread the word and wish a hearty “Break a leg!” to all whose names appear below: Unique Theatrical Experience: Halloween Silver Party, Arthur Roger/Halloween New Orleans; HeartSong Two: A New Orleans Concert for Iowa, Le Chat Noir;

Spaces in Between, Kathy Randels/Artspot Productions and Art in Action; Swimming Upstream, Ashé Cultural Arts Center; Varla Jean Merman Loves a For[continued on 24]

Deadline: Tues ., Dec ues., Dec..

30th 504.522.8049

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ambush

paparazzi

Robert, Lisa & Sandra having some fun at Society Page

New Year’s, Clubbin’, Entertainin’ ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush

700 Club’s Matt ringin’ in the New Year with Scott

Festive & fun New Year’s Eve at 700 Club

Sean dancin’ in the New Year at 700 Club

700 Club’s famous couple Scott & Scott New Year’s Eve

Poncho takes a break at Cutter’s Bartender Neel serves cocktails for Rawhide’s Chuck Wagon Happy Hour on Fridays

Chris, Eric, Ray & Steve out at Oz Paul & Michael slingin’ New Year’s cocktails at 700 Club

Marcy Marcell & Rusty LaRoux star in The Zoo Revue at Big Daddy’s

Raven Kennedy guest stars in Oz’s Sunday Show

Deroy & Southern Dynasty Cohost VanShawn celebrate at Society Page

Buffy, The Queen Bee of Bourbon Street, pears out over her territory at Ambush Headquarters

Ringin’ in the New Year at 700 Club

Kory, Mwindo’s Larry & Leroy pop in to Society Page Jim & Jim cocktailin’ at Oz

Vic, David & Keith with 700 Club’s Mike doin’ a New Year’s toast

Vaughn slings cocktails at Society Page

Rip & Marsha ready for Satyricon’s 12th Night Ball at Oz trying for over two hours to get a cab with no success

Queenie, The First Ferret of Bourbon Street, in her toy box at Ambush Headquarters

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 23

in the spotlight ...from 19

eign Tongue; Ventriloquist Verses, The Alamo Underground Best Production of a Musical: Assassins, The NOLA Project;

By Jeeves, Rivertown Repertory Theatre; Li’l Abner, Summer Lyric Theatre at Tulane University; Miss Saigon, Rivertown Repertory Theatre; Rent, Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré; Tommy, NOCCA Best Production of a Drama: The Arabian Nights, Tulane Univ.

Dept. Of Theatre; Metamorphoses, UNO Dept. of FTCA; Rabbit Hole, Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans; The Seafarer, Southern Rep; A Soldier’s Play, Anthony Bean Community Theater; Spinning Into Butter, Loyola Dept. of Theatre Arts Best Production of a Comedy: The Altos, Shine Productions; Die! Mommy!

Die!, Running With Scissors; For Better, Southern Rep; Laughing Wild, Actor’s Theatre of New Orleans; A Place in the Sun, Running With Scissors; Speech & Debate, Southern Rep Best Original Work: Crimes Against Nature, Otter/Backyard Ballroom; A Place in the Sun, Richard Read/Running With Scissors; The Renew Revue, Ricky Graham, Sean Patterson, Jefferson Turner, Dane Evans; The Sweetest Sounds: The Music of Richard Rogers, Jefferson Turner/ NOCCA; Varla Jean Merman Loves a Foreign Tongue; What, Has This Thing Appeared Again Tonight, Jim Fitzmorris/The NOLA Project & The Shakespeare Festival at Tulane Best Children’s Show: Aida, JPAS Summer Youth Theatre;

Back to the 80s, 2 Left Feet Productions; Cinderella, Wing & A Prayer Productions; Holiday Extravaganza, NORD Crescent City Lights Youth Theater; Jamal’s Special Christmas Gift, Anthony Bean Community Theater; Once Upon a Mattress, JPAS Summer Youth Theatre Best Director of a Musical: AJ Allegra, Assassins; Roland “Butch” Caire, Miss Saigon; Blake Coheley, Tommy; Derek Franklin and Sonny Borey, Rent; Diane Lala, Li’l Abner; Gary Rucker, By Jeeves

Best Director of a Play: Lorenzo Gonzalez, The Arabian Nights; Aimée Hayes, Speech & Debate; Laura Hope, Spinning Into Butter; David W. Hoover, Metamorphoses; René J. F. Piazza, Rabbit Hole; Richard Read, A Place in the Sun Best Actor in a Musical: Roy Haylock, Cabaret; Vatican Lokey, Miss Saigon; Michael Moore, Tommy; Travis Resor, The Frogs; Joey Taranto, Rent; Christopher Woods, Rent Best Actress in a Musical: Becky Allen, Annie; Idella Johnson, Rent; Meredith Long, Ruthless!

The Musical; Janie Planchet, Aida; Rachel Romano, Once Upon a Mattress; Jessie Terrebonne, Cabaret Best Actor in a Play: Jason Kirkpatrick, Coyote on a Fence; Keith Launey, Erik the Fourteenth; Jack Long, A Place in the Sun; Brian Peterson, Die! Mommy!

Die!; René J. F. Piazza, Rabbit Hole; Will Williams, Radio Golf Best Actress in a Play: Trina Beck, As You Like It; Joyce Deal, Miss Margarida’s Way; Laura Friedmann, Spinning Into Butter; Elizabeth Skinner Gore, Laughing Wild; Jennifer Growden, Uncle Vanya; Ashley Ricord, Side Man Best Featured Actor in a Musical: Matt Artigues, Tommy; Lee Farrar Bailey, Oklahoma!; Daniel deShazo, Miss Saigon; Bob Edes, Jr., Cabaret; Richard Alexander Pommes, Assassins; Josh Smith, Tommy Best Featured Actress in a Musical: Samantha Helmstetter, Tommy; Jorinda Junius, Li’l Abner; Leslie Limberg, Rent; Lisa Picone, Assassins; Beverly Trask, Cabaret; Ralshella Washington, Raisin Best Featured Actor in a Play: A.J. Allegra, What, Has This Thing Appeared Again Tonight?; Bob Edes, Jr., Die! Mommy! Die!; Harold X. Evans, Radio Golf; Rodney Graham, Gem of the Ocean; Dui Jarrod, A Soldier’s Play; Ron Reeder, An Enemy of the People Best Featured Actress in a Play: Gina Abromson, Rabbit Hole; Julie Bounds, Talking With...; Chrissy Garrett, Metamorphoses; Claire Gresham, What, Has This Thing Appeared Again Tonight?; Maura Hooper, An Enemy of the People; Peggy Walton-Walker, The Clean House Best Ensemble: The Bug (Brittany Chandler, Cynthia Davila, Joshua Eichhorn, Rebecca Elizabeth Hollingsworth); Die! Mommy!

Die! (Leon Contavesprie, Bob Edes, Jr., Jack Long, Brian Peterson, Dorian Rush, Dwayne Sepcich); Metamorphoses (Blake Balu, Natalie Boyd, Ryan Bruce, Ellen Buschang, Derrick Deal, Joyce Deal, Chrissy Garrett, Jonathan Mares, Ben Matheny, Jessica Salamin, Georgette Verdin, James Yeargain); The Renew Revue (Ricky Graham, Yvette Hargis,

24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Sean Patterson, Mandy Zirkenbach); The Seafarer (Drew Battles, John Bostic, Jim Fitzmorris, Mark McLaughlin, Shad Willingham); Speech & Debate (Natalie Boyd, Sean Glazebrook, Sean Knapp, Liann Pattison) Best Costume Design: Linda Fried, Oklahoma; Roy Haylock, Cabaret; Charlotte Lang, Li’l Abner; Shauna Leone, Frannie Rosenberg, Abbey Peterson, Back to the 80s; Otter & Oliver Manhattan, Crimes Against Nature; Julie Winn, Tommy Best Lighting Design: Lynn F. Caliva, Metamorphoses; James Clotfelter, The Seafarer; Su Gonczy, Die! Mommy! Die!; Marty Sachs, For Better; Scott Sauber and Nancy Macko, Rent; Gary Solomon, Jr., Tommy Best Set Design: Kevin Griffith, Metamorphoses; Geoffrey Hall, The Clean House; Shannon R. Miller, Return to the Forbidden Planet; Rick Paul, Li’l Abner; David Raphel, For Better; Chad Talkington, A Soldier’s Play Best Choreography: Blake Coheley, Tommy; Karen Hebert, Cabaret; Stephanie Herring, The Arabian Nights; Arieuna McGee, Jamal’s Special Christmas Gift; Mattew Neff, Oklahoma!; Lindsey Price, Annie Best Music Director: Roland “Butch” Caire, Miss Saigon; Donna Clavijo/Alan Payne, Fiddler on the Roof; Jonne Dendinger, Annie; Derek Franklin, Rent; C. Leonard Raybon, Oklahoma; Jefferson Turner, Tommy Best Sound Design: Priscilla Jenkins, Spinning Into Butter; Richard Read, Die! Mommy! Die!; Michael Singleton, For Better; Liz Waldmen, What, Has This Thing Appeared Again Tonight?; Christopher Wright, Gem of the Ocean Best Wigs/Make-Up: Tori Bernard, Heather Autin, Back to the 80s; Greg Bonin, Tommy; Mel Calahan, Where the Girls Were; Don & Linda Guillot, Li’l Abner; Brian Peterson, A Place in the Sun; Bryce Turgeon, Ruthless!

The Musical Best Special Effects: Die! Mommy! Die!; Metamorphoses; A Place in the Sun; Rent; Splatter House; Tommy Best Food/Dining Experience: Ginger Luke, Minacapelli’s Dinner Playhouse; Andy Messina’s, Rivertown Repertory Theatre; NOCCA; Rocky & Carlos, The Altos/Shine Productions

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 25

CANAL STREET

100 IBERVILLE

200 BIENVILLE

300

600

RAMPART

500 TOULOUSE

BURGUNDY

ROYAL

ST. LOUIS

DAUPHINE

400

CHARTES

DECATUR

CONTI

BOURBON

ST. PETER ORLEANS ST. ANN

800 DUMAINE

900 ST. PHILIP

1200

Shreveport, LA [318] CENTRA STATION, 1025 Marshall St., 222.2216 KORNER LOUNGE, 800 Louisiana, 71101; 222.9796 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921

1300

body rubs

1000 URSULINES

1100 GOVERNOR NICHOLLS

BARRACKS ESPLANADE

classifieds

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 UI PH SA U A D

24

00

00

20

EN 00 C EL H 2 YS 1 0 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S

M AR IG NY

00

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 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 706 E. Gregory St., 433.8482 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 Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, www.4seasonsno.com CLUB TRIBUTE, 3202 N. Arnoult Rd.,

New Orleans, LA [504] HOT, MASCULINE STUD FOR SENSATIONAL BODY RUBS & MORE 24/7, 6'0, 182#, hard gun & magic hands. Four hands available.

In/Out/Hotel appointments. Call Charlie 504.430.7413 [is109]

bookstores RT PA M RA

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

Baton Rouge, LA [225] CITY NEWS STAND & VIDEO, North Blvd., 343.2606; Jones Creek, 751.7494

New Orleans, LA [504]

French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater

bars

373.5431, myspace.com/ RubyfruitJungleNOLA SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156 STARLIGHT BY THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 561.8939, StarlightByThePark.COM VOILA, 300 Decatur St., 638.8198, myspace.com/VoilaNOLA

455.1311, myspace.com/clubtribute New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM BIG DADDY'S, 2513 Royal, 948.6288 CAFÉ LAFITTE IN EXILE, 901 Bourbon Street 522.8397, Lafittes.COM CORNER POCKET, 940 St. Louis, 568.9829 COUNTRY CLUB, 634 Louisa St., TheCountryClubNewOrleans.COM, 945.0742 COWPOKES, 2240 St. Claude, 947.0505 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888 LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450, 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 RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE, 1135 Decatur St.,

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 MR. BINKY'S, 96 West 26th St., 466.1870 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

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 [is2408]

circuit/events Feb. 19-24, 2009, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.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 Sept. 2-7, 2008, 38th Official Southern Decadence-A Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture, end of Summer Blowout including the Southern Decadence Parade & loads of activities, bringing over 125,000 revelers to New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2009, Halloween 26, benefiting Project Lazarus, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by AmbushMag.COM, halloweenneworleans.com Dec. 30, 2009-Jan. 3, 2010, Gay New Year's in New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, GayNewOrleans.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

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

New Orleans, LA [504] MARDI GRAS ZONE GROCERY, 2706 Royal St., 947.8787, MardiGrasZone.COM QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416 VERTI MART, 1201 Royal St., 525.4767

with free local calls. Some have additional features such as balconies, jacuzzi tubs, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, full kitchens, high-speed Internet access and free off-street parking. Absolutely all are clean and safe. Regular rates starting at $79/nt. Special Event rates starting at $119/nt. Weekly and monthly discounts available.

MARIGNY MANOR HOUSE, 2125 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116, PHONE: 504.943.7826, Toll Free: 877.247.7599, marignymanorhouse.com, E-mail us at info@MarignyManorHouse.COM. 1840’s Grand Greek Revival guest house, large spacious bedrooms, private baths, antique 4 poster queen beds, wireless internet access, tv/vcr/dvd/ cable, telephone, complimentary continental breakfast and off street parking.

BON MAISON GUEST HOUSE, 835 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.561.8498 BOURGOYNE GUEST HOUSE, 839 Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116, 504.524.3621

hair salons

massage

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

New Orleans, LA [504] 4 HAND MASSAGE, Butch/Kevin, Nat’l Board Certified, 908.2069, License #LA 3355, #LA 4230 [is109] PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY

By Patrick LMT - Outcall or Uptown Studio.

Safe neighborhood comfortable studio. Towels available for draping, Non-Sexual, 717.2577, www. n e w o r l e a n s . a m a z i n g h a n d s . u s Discounts for: Friends of Dorothy, Students, Artists, Service Industry, License #LA4005 [is2708]

groceries/delis

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 [is2408]

lodging/accommodations 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.

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.

CRESCENT PALMS MOTEL, 3923 Martin Luther King Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70125; PHONE: 504.821.7773, FAX: 504.267.7366, CrescentPalmsMotel.COM, E-mail us at crescentpalmsmotel@yahoo.com. The Crescent Palms Motel is located in the heart of New Orleans, minutes from the French Quarter and other famous attractions. Our newly renovated, vintage motel offers 24 spacious guest rooms, large bathrooms, ample closet space, a cocktail lounge and complimentary off-street parking. Each room features two brand new double beds, complimentary high-speed wireless internet, a refrigerator and more. Please come visit soon!

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

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, 6am-12midnight.

Playgirl, Inches & Freshmen Magazine model.

Pics at m4rn.com, ID #190508, 504.756.9443 [is109]

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 CEN-

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 27

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

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

organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm Pensacola, FL [850] APPETITE FOR LIFE, INC., provides 2 nutritionally balanced meals a day-lunch & dinner, for some 60 men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, 1842 West Cervantes St.; Mail: P.O. Box 308, 32592-0308; 470.9111, Fax: 470.0201, gaypensacola.com/appforlife GULF COAST TIDE, INC. w w w . G u l f C o a s t T I D E . o r g ; info@GulfCoastTIDE.org Alexandria, LA [318] CLASS [Central Louisiana AIDS Support Services], 103 Bolton Ave., 71301; 1.800.444.7993, 442. 1 0 1 0, FAX: 443.5216 Baton Rouge, LA [225] HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two), 4550 North Blvd., #250, 927.1269, Fax: 927.7367, haartinc.org, haartinc@aol.com GBLSU [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians & Supporters United], glsapres@unixl.sncc.

Isu.edu, Kristy Price, President, 388.5160 KREWE OF APOLLO / BATON ROUGE, PO Box 3591, 70821; kreweapollobr.org KREWE OF DIVAS, kreweofdivas.com, 343.0380 LAMBDA GROUP, 2937 Greenwood Dr., PO Box 82775, 70884-2775, 907.3665, www.lambdabr.org, info@lambdabr.org LEWIS HUMPHREY’S FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 387.9798

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH OF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 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] AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Orleans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, 828.3399 BELLE REVE NEW ORLEANS, AIDS Residence for Families, PO Box 3305, 70177; 945.9455 BIG EASY M.C.C. (Metropolitan Community Church of Greater New Orleans), Sunday Worship at St Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave. at Willow. Fellowship after service. Mailing address: 1333 S. Carrolllton Ave. New Orleans, LA, 70118; 213.4340, p a s t o r @ b i g e a s y m c c . c o m , www.bigeasymcc.com BROTHERHOOD, INC., To decrease the spread of AIDS and HIV among African Americans, 1661 Canal St., Suite 3230, 70112; 566.7955 CAVALIERS MOTORCYCLE CLUB: Gay motocycle group sponsors monthly day rides and other riding events in New Orleans area.

Visit www.cavaliersmc.comc or call 782.5625 or e-mail info@cavaliersmc.com.

CHURCH OF CHRIST THE LIBERATOR, Sun. 11am Service, 607 Marigny St. (behind The Friendly Bar), ChristTheLiberator.ORG COMING OUT SUPPORT GROUP, meets 1st Wed. of each month, 7:30-9pm, Info: Liz 482.4012; Lesbian & Gay Community Center, 2114 Decatur St., 70116; 945.1103 COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK, a project of the NO/AIDS Task Force which works with the gay community to implement HIV prevention activities, 507 Frenchmen St., 945.4000, noaidstaskforce.com COPS 8 (Citizens' Organization for Police Support in the 8th District), 840 N. Rampart St., #51, 70116; 588.COPS (2677), cops8.org DRAMA! [A Gay & Lesbian Arts Organization], PO Box 52565, 70152; 948.9924, DramaNO.org, DRAMA@DramaNO.org FOOD FOR FRIENDS, 944.6028 FORUM FOR EQUALITY, 336 Lafayette, Suite 200, 70130; 947.2981, ForumForEquality@aol.com FOUNDATION FOR MACRO BIOTIC WAY, enjoy-life.com GAY APPRECIATION AWARDS, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049; AmbushMag.COM/GAA GAY COUNSELING LINE, 833.1500 GLSEN [Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network], 482.4081, Fax 595.8587, E-mail: glsenno@hotmail.com, glsenno.org GULF GENDER ALLIANCE [GGA], NonProfit Support Group for Transgender persons.

Monthly meetings, socials and political activism.

Privacy respected and expected. Interview required. Nondiscriminatory. Call 504. 324.4035 or write PO Box 56836, New Orleans, LA 70156-6836; gga.org, E-mail: info@gga.org HALLOWEEN IN NEW ORLEANS, INC., PO Box 52171, 70152-2171; halloween neworleans.com HATE CRIMES HOTLINE, c/o Family Service of Greater New Orleans, 504.202.2131.

The Hate Crimes Project offers to assist those who feel that they may have been a victim of a hate crime. The project provides advocacy for persons victimized due to race, religion, gender and gender identity, age, disability, and/or sexual orientation.

IN THIS TOGETHER, HIV/AIDS Case Management, 1661 Canal Street, Suite 3107, 70112; 962.3245, is www.inthistogetherinc.org,

itt@accesscom.net KOCKTAIL BUNCH BOWLING LEAGUE, Contact Glenn Culp, 504.861.0233 KREWE OF ARMEINIUS, PO Box 56638, New Orleans, LA 70156-6638, cetubby@cox.net, KreweOfArmeinius.ORG KREWE OF AMON RA, PO Box 7033, Metairie, LA 70010, KreweOfAmonRa.COM KREWE OF MWINDO, PO Box 51031, 70156; 913.5791, KreweOfMwindo.ORG, krewe@kreweofmwindo.org KREWE OF PETRONIUS, PO Box 71665, 70172, Pres. Arthur Alarcon 451.9507, Capt. Bill McCarthy 430.6695, Sec. Mae Falgout 484.6045, http://kreweofpetronius.tripod.com KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/ KCQ LaCARP [Louisiana Community AIDS Research Program], 584.1971 LA-LIFT, Social Club for Lesbians, age 50+, who have fun together on weekends. Email: armyvet20@webtv.net LAMBDA CENTER, 831 Elysian Fields Ave., 70117 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 770435, New Orleans, LA 70071-4035, 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 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

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

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

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

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 PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Cathy Espenan, Cell: 344.2116, Office: 861.7575

restaurants New Orleans, LA [504] 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 Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 NOLA Smoothies, 315 Decatur St., 302.1185

Orleans Grapevine, 720 Orleans, 523.1930 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

retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504]

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29

one last song

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

Going Home: Part Two

W

hen the song ended Sam called a cab for the two of him on his cell phone.

He placed his hand on Kirk’s shoulder and turned to face him. “Is there someplace special you’d like to go for dinner?

Kirk smiled at him, it was warm and wide. “Any where you were planning on is fine with me, as long as I pass their dress code.”

“You’ll pass any code. I’m dressed even more casual than you are actually.

Is there any thing special you’d like to eat. Anything you don’t like, type of food? Italian, Spanish, Creole, Home Cooking?”

“I’ll eat just about anything?” Kirk placed his hand down on Sam’s knee.

“Surprise me.” With that said they both laughed.

Kirk had no idea where they had ended up for dinner, but it wasn’t to far from the bar and it smelled of Italian spices and sauces cooking, he knew that. He raced the places through his mind as they waited to be seated. It was busy, he could tell by the clatter of people eating and talking. He could sense the hustle and bustle of the servers going in and out of the kitchen area. He heard the bartenders taking orders at the bar and then the hostess approaching and welcoming them to Maximo’s. Sam gently took him arm and guided him to their seats following the hostess. “I hope this place is all right with you.”

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 ESTATE TREASURES CONSIGNMENT SHOP, 2014 Magazine, 679.6600 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 QUEEN FASHIONS.COM, queenfashions.com, exoticfashionmall.com 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 TOP DRAWER ANTIQUES, 4310/18 Magazine St., TopDrawerAntiques.NET WICKED ORLEANS, 1201 Decatur, 529.4384, WickedOrleans.COM

spas 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

“One of my all time favorites. I use to come here quite often in fact.” They sat next to each other in a small booth rather than across from each other, though that is how the hostess placed the menu’s down. That was something that always bothered Sam, was when he went into a restaurant with some other man, the host or hostess would sit them across from each other rather than side by side like they would a straight couple, especially here in the French Quarter where more than likely if two guys came into a place together and one was holding the others arm, more than likely they to were a couple. He picked up the menu and asked Kirk if he would like to tell him what was featured, to which he laughed a bit and told Sam he knew it as well as the back of his own hand, and when their waitperson came they would recite the daily specials.

“I’m sorry, I just thought, you not being able to see…” but he didn’t finish the sentence Kirk placed a single finger to his lips.

“Treat me just like anyone else, I really would appreciate it and I promise I will definitely let you know when I need the help, I know my way around this town pretty well, believe me I’m use to a good many things. Things maybe you don’t even notice. Like right now, people are trying not to look at us, but some of them can’t help it and they do stare.”

Sam suddenly felt a bit ashamed because he was thinking that some folks were staring because they always

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

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

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

did when ever he came into a room. How egotistical he was indeed he realized at this very moment, never having thought that maybe the stares weren’t for him after all, but for people feeling empathy for Sam because of his lack of sight. “I have gotten use to it, unfortunately my ex could not bear it, and quite frankly he was kind of , how do I put this, ashamed to go out in public with me.”

“He must have been a very shallow person. Personally I find you quite exciting and I enjoy being out with you.”

The waiter came, did his job, took their order and went off to fetch their drinks.

Sam ordered an unsweetened iced tea and Kirk got a tall vodka and tonic, with a double squeeze of lime.

As they were awaiting their dinner to arrive, they sipped on their drinks and talked of many things. Things that people upon first meeting and realize they like each other talked about in an effort to come to know as much about each other as possible. They spoke of their pasts, and what paths they had followed from their teen years to where they were at now. They explored each others lives and how they each had come out and when they first realized that they were different from most of their friends. They spoke intimately and rather explicitly of each of their first experiences with others of the same sex. And as different as they were from each other they found out they were just as much alike. Sam had a hard time getting through the story of the first Kirk and the new one could sense the water building up in his eyes, because his voice became softer as he spoke of it and he could detect just the slightest tremble. He tightened his grip on Sam’s thigh and Sam eased his legs closer to him. Kirk had to hold himself in check, for suddenly he just wanted nothing more than to explore this other man from head to toe and everything that lay between. He had to remember that they were no longer sitting in a friendly bar, but rather out in public. He squeezed Sam’s thigh one more time and then quite reluctantly withdrew it.

“I’m sorry, I seem to be getting a little carried away with myself, forgetting where we are.”

“It makes no difference to me, if I was worried about it I would have sat across the table from you.”

“Still I think I’d rather end this rather remarkable evening at either your place or mine and not sitting down in Central Lock-up.” Sam laughed at that one, and at last their food arrived. They ate in relative silence, and it amazed Sam how well Kirk was able to handle the simple chore of eating, he certainly had a lot to learn about this man.

After dinner it was decided that they would indeed go home together, listen to some music and get to know more about each other, and through negotiation it was decided they would go to Sam’s condo in the warehouse district. Kirk would have been just as

30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

happy to take him back to his slave quarter digs just a few blocks from where they were, but Sam was very persuasive, and so once again they were in a taxicab and headed in the night towards their destiny.

Though Kirk could see very little of the condo they had entered, he was guided step by step and in a very descriptive manner through the foyer into the living dining area of Sam’s abode. Sam sat him on a plush overstuffed sofa and gently sat down next to him. Kirk immediately placed his arms on the others broad shoulders.

“My God, he muttered, you're built like the preferable shithouse.” Running his hands downward over his six-pack and to his waist, he took hold of the bottom of the muscle shirt and deftly drew it up over his head stripping his upper body.

Sam drew him closer and kissed him long and deep, unbuttoning his shirt and slipping it over his shoulders, he was surprised, pleasantly to find his body tight, not over developed, but no slouch either. He marveled at the smooth white unblemished skin and slowly licked across his throat from shoulder to shoulder. This caused Kirk to shudder just a bit with pleasure and in response he allowed his hands to wander downward and into the other man’s crotch. It was just where he had wanted to place them all through dinner and now here he was doing just what he had longed for since this man introduced himself.

Sam was responding from the gentle stroking and stood up slowly facing Kirk, undoing his belt he tugged slowly at the waistband allowing his pants to slide below his knees. Kirk wound his fingers around the silk like fabric of the swimmers thong Sam was wearing as underwear freeing the others member.

All at once and without missing a beat Sam was out of his pants and swept Kirk up into his massive arms and was carrying him into another room.

Laying Kirk on a king sized bed, he slowly stripped the rest of his clothes off. He laid on top of him kissing him once again. Hungrily and greedily Kirk returned his kiss as deep as his tongue would reach. Sam whispered in his ear “I‘m going to turn on some tunes and I‘ll be right back,” and suddenly he was gone. All at once Kirk felt very alone, naked and very venerable and it brought horrible memories when he was just twelve or thirteen years old. His mother had left him with one of his “uncles“, that what she called all of her current boyfriends at any given time, when she had gone out to work for the evening. She was not really a bad person, his mom, she was just to trusting that’s all. His uncle had bathed him and carried him to his cot in a small room. After toweling him dry, he said he would be right back with his pajamas. He came back, but no pajamas, but with a tube of lube [continued on 31]

allons acadiana

hot tails of red stick

by Patrick Clinton Email: BlondAtULL@aol.com

by Brad Benedict Email: bradhottails@hotmail.com

I

t is a new year and we have a lot to look forward to. In just a few short weeks, we’ll have a new president, and if all goes well, it should also mark the beginning of a new era in freedom and civil liberties for all Americans. For too long gays and lesbians have been treated like second class citizens. I for one am thrilled that the Bush Era is finally coming to an end.

And over the next few months, the traditional celebrations should be better than ever. Carnival Season has begun, and before long there will be parties and balls and everything in between. The countdown to Mardi Gras has begun, and Acadiana is already gearing up like never before.

Over the next month, Sound Factory and Back Side will once again start the transformation that for so many marks the beginning of Mardi Gras in Lafayette. John and Mark and the rest of the crew are already planning the parties and other special events.

In the meantime, don’t forget that Sound Factory and Back Side have a weekly lineup that is second to none.

Besides hosting the most fabulous events in town, they always make sure that every night of the week is its own special party. They are open seven days a week and always have something incredible planned.

Whether you’re looking for a quick drink after work or a wild night on the town, there separate weekly lineups make even the most uneventful night fresh and new. From Show Night every Sunday and Karaoke on Tuesday to their unforgettable Dance Parties every Friday and Saturday, when you plan a night out at Sound Factory and Back Side, you know it’s going to be an adventure. And with ever changing drink specials, you’ re sure to get a great deal. What more can you ask for?

It’s two bars in one, and it won’t break you’re pocket book.

So this Carnival season, make sure you remember your friends at Sound Factory and Back Side. Mardi Gras in Acadiana wouldn’t be the same without its only Gay owned and operated bar.

With so much going on in Downtown Lafayette, it’s no wonder that the area has become so well known for its great parties and celebrations. The Cajun culture is just conducive to fun, and Jefferson Street is Ground Zero for all of it.

one last song ...from 30

beating faster, and they could each feel the others hardness pressing against one and another.

“Is this going to just be a one night fleeting bout of sex or do you think there may be something more?” It was Sam talking and Kirk couldn’t believe that this stunning creature really wanted to start something with him.

“I’d say that is resting with you right now.”

"I’ve explained myself to you as much as I could, I just don’t want to be hurt again, that’s all. I guess what I’m asking you is will you take me as your partner now and forever?”

“No doubt.” Sam took the tube out of Kirk’s hand and opened it, taking some on his fingers. Sam braced for the coldness he expected to feel between his cheeks, but it didn’t come. Instead Kirk rubbed it between his own cheeks and kneeled above him, stroking him with the rest of it.

The music continued to play and Kirk only remembered the first few bard of the ONE LAST SONG that was playing as he slipped into total ecstasyl To be continued...

You may contact me at donniejay@hotmail.com.

instead. This was Kirk’s introduction to anal sex and it wasn’t all that great, in fact it hurt and left him trembling. It was wham, bam and thank you man, and it began happening more times than not every time his mom left him with an uncle. After awhile he came to expect it and when it didn’t occurred he thought maybe he had done something wrong.

He has related all this to Sam when they had spoken about coming out before dinner.

Soft music filled the air in just a few seconds and Sam slid his now naked body close to him. He handed something to Kirk, yep, a tube of lube. Well he was no longer that inexperienced youngster and this was fine with him, Sam could literally have anything or any part of him, no holds barred. He ran his hands down the broad well toned back of his new found friend, down and down they went exploring everything, and they came to rest atop those glorious globes of flesh. Slowly Sam spread his legs apart, allowing his fingers to slip between them, which they did. Not probing per se, but just resting there.

Both of them could feel Kirk’s heart

So next time you’re looking for a wild night out on the town, check out Sound Factory and Back Side. It’s sure to be a night to remember. Until next time, have fun and be safe. I’ll see you in the Downtown.

Your Balls

T

hanks go out to my buddy Ronnie Wise in Dallas for helping me compile a list of bal masque presentations for 2009. It doesn’t seem possible that this time of the year has rolled around again, but it’s almost King Cake time too.

The great beads are already being purchased in hopes of enticing some cute stud out of his pants for a string of plastic balls, but there’s nothing wrong with that in my opinion. I consider this time of the year as the free “show and tell’ period, and it is such a fabulous time of the year.

For those of you who want to attend the different balls, here is all I have but there are others that I haven’t been informed of yet.

Apollo Shreveport Ball 1/10 Apollo Baton Rouge Ball 1/17 Krewe of Queenateenas King Cake Queen Coronation 1/24 Krewe of Mwindo 1/31 Krewe of Petronius 2/1 Apollo Birmingham Ball 2/7 Krewe of Olympus Houston 2/7 Royal Order of Unicorn Lafayette 2/ 7 Krewe of Amon Ra 2/14 Mystic Krewe of Satyricon 2/15 Apollo de Lafayette Ball 2/20 Friday Night Before Mardi Gras 2/ 20 Night of the Black Mask 2/20 Krewe of Armeinius 2/21 Krewe of Oceanus San Francisco 2/21 Spanish Town Mardi Gras Parade 2/21 Lords of Leather 2/22 Bourbon Street Awards 2/24 Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss 2/24 For those of you who have never attended a Mardi Gras ball and may be from out of town, let me tell you a little bit about them. Mardi Gras is a celebration held on Shrove Tuesday, the last day before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. Mardi Gras (or Fat Tuesday and interpreted from the French) arises from the custom of parading a fattened ox through the streets of Paris before a grand feast is held that evening.

The celebration ends a long carnival season that begins on January 6

(Epiphany or Twelfth Night after Christmas). Celebrating the Mardi Gras season was introduced to North America

by French colonists as early as 1725 in New Orleans but also in many sur-

rounding areas. Mardi Gras celebrations and feasts can be traced back to the early Roman custom of merry-making prior to a period of fasting.

Societies, called krewes, developed from private social clubs, but in recent years more and more krewes have become public in nature. According to legend, the word krewe derives from the old English spelling for crew and the custom of krewes taking their names from mythological characters dates back to at least 1857. These krewes were originally labeled as mystic since members traditionally wore masks during the elaborate balls and also due to membership rosters never being published. Each krewe elects a parody of royalty: king, queen, dukes, duchesses, princes, princesses, knights, and captains who reign over the years’ celebrations, fundraisers, and meetings. Traditionally, the season culminates in two major events – the krewe’s parade and, most importantly, the krewe’s bal masque or masked ball.

The Mardi Gras parades consist of floats holding the krewe members who throw doubloons, beads, and other items to the people lining the streets. Many parade-goers wear costumes of purple, green, and gold, the traditional colors of Mardi Gras, when attending the parades, and scream “Throw me something Mister!” to the krewe members on the floats. Marching bands and celebrities on floats are also included in the [continued on 34]

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31

acadiana

Dr. Patrick & Travis celebrating graduation at Sound Factory

Lisa about to get wild at Sound Factory

Randall partying at Sound Factory

Macky is all smiles at Sound Factory

Ethan in from California at Sound Factory

Bob enjoying a night out at Sound Factory

Steven working the door at Sound Factory

Colta having a beer at Back Side

Chris bartending at Sound Factory

Natalie smiling pretty at Sound Factory

Mark always working hard at Sound Factory

Lyndsey after graduation at Sound Factory

Tony bartending at Back Side Max relaxing at Sound Factory

Khory toasting at Sound Factory

Daric hanging out at Sound Factory

Miss Steven at Sound Factory

Giles dropping by Sound Factory

Darius celebrating graduation at Sound Factory

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Rachael & Mark at Back Side

Graduation, Smiles, Wild ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Patrick Clinton

paparazzi

GayNewOrleans.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 33

hot tails of red stick ...from 31 parades.

Mardi Gras Day, which is always Fat Tuesday, is the last day of the carnival season, with many of the largest parades being held on this day. The annual bal masque is filled with pageantry and excitement, as the captain of the krewe presents to the reigning king, queen, and honored guests a formal tableau depicting a specific theme. The court of the king and queen are members of the krewe who are introduced in spectacular costumes depicting aspects or characters appropriate to the theme of the bal masque selected by the captain and approved by the board.

Gay balls have taken on a more unique roll in Mardi Gras celebrations. In spoofing those that are supposedly a little more aristocratic, members come up with memorable themes that often cost quite a bit to produce but offer entertainment like you will not find in the regular organizations. Please note that I did not indicate straight here, but just fill in the blanks. If you want originality, quality, and excellent entertainment, you attend the gay balls. Many of the other groups are closed groups with no admittance by the public except by strict invitation only policies. When it comes to a gay ball, if you haven’t received an invitation, fork over the dough and purchase yourself a seat in the balcony.

Sometimes, the balcony seats are usually the most desirable anyway, and this allows you to see everything going on, something which is often not possible when seated at tables on the floor section. Some people think they can’t attend a gay ball, but too many think they have to be invited – for free. Well, let me tell you, theses balls are expensive, so quit expecting a freebie and don’t go around saying you weren’t invited.

Yes, you are invited – some free, some for pay. Think of it as a movie. Get a ticket.

Just as important a part of Mardi Gras as the balls is the bead tosses from balconies. Tops go up. Bottoms come down. Eager exhibitionists go home with great souvenir beads and end up on the internet or in compilations of Mardi Gras tapes and DVDs. As was commonly quoted on the old Jerry Seinfeld show, ‘there’s nothing wrong with that,” so get rid of your society hang-ups, and let it all hang out. It’s just a body part. We all got them things. They are called tits and dicks.

Now that you know all about your balls, enjoy the season.

costume, that is. The other is a given.

Lance – a fantastic job waiting for him upon graduation, maybe in San Francisco.

Stephen – ditto, only locally or whatever is best for him and for Ty. Dan – ditto and maybe a return to his roots, Cincinnati, I believe.

Brad – more problems to solve in the world of mathematics.

Wes – continue his education and finding more time for working out and keeping that body so hot and gorgeous and needing to be massaged.

John and Mike – have more nude swimming and hot tub outings at their country home.

Little Corey – making an appearance in that private garden in the buff.

Nicole Foxx - the Miss Gay Louisiana America title.

Karen – more music for her collection and more time to relax or to promote the Greg Bell charity.

Guy and Richard – some more trips to far away places.

Chansley – something bigger than her truck and her boat.

Rocky - more handsome, young studs.

Michael C. – another house to flip but one with a big profit margin included.

Claudette – freedom to get some real Cuban cigars and more time to sit on her balcony and watch her naked neighbor.

Kim - more time to enjoy life without working so much.

Marsha – another diamond and being able to share another great Magnolia Cotillion with Rip. Danny – more hibiscus, or at least how to keep them alive when he does acquire them.

Michael A. – having more sex – with his garden plants – and creating new crosses for bigger and better blooms.

Ben – another fantastic massage like the last one he had.

Raquel – claiming the big one for Louisiana again.

Garland – pleasing his customers and having them come back for more.

Robert – trees around his pool that are green instead of brown.

Brandon – more shine and less dust for that new car in his driveway.

Damon – a trip back to the wine country in California and a stopover in Las Vegas.

Tommy – keeping Roscoe from tearing up his new house.

TTT – a successful second career that can carry him over into retirement.

Dennis – more of his pictures in Ambush.

Your Wishes

N

ew Years Day starts another year of your life, and many of you make lists of things that you will try to do – called resolutions.

I find that I very seldom stick with mine, but it is still fun to at least think about, and even writing down a list is fun. This is similar to giving up something for Lent and then sneaking around and doing your own thing in private because you know you aren’t going to tell anyone. Sometimes it is best just to let well enough alone, but then again, it is fun to speculate at what individuals might put on their personal wish lists.

Here are my unique speculations just for you: Sam – completely finish lining his bedroom walls with nude pictures from his collections, something he has been working on for quite some time, but now that he lives alone once again, he can enjoy, enjoy, enjoy naked.

Gerry – finding a nice young man to share trips and dinners with. (That means Luther and Damon may have to do it together without Gerry, which sounds wonderful and ever so naughty.)

John Wayne – hoping for an early spring so he can lounge around naked in his patio.

Kenny – having the biggest one at the LOL ball, a

34 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM

Ty – time to vacation, maybe go hunting, camping out, making out in the wilds – with Stephen, of course.

Ronnie – another great Mardi Gras season with lots of trips to all the balls.

Cody – more successful nights of karaoke with original themes to entice more people to become involved.

BC Boy – maybe a new home, some vacation time.

Phil – more of JW, night and day and weekends too.

Cass – more special equipment and lots of men to share it with.

David – more privacy.

Scott – shared privacy.

Mark – keeping those young studs happy in Lafayette.

Dick – keeping those young studs happy in Red Stick.

John B - keeping that leather stud happy in New Orleans.

Kiley – continued happiness in San Francisco.

Jeanne – a sign to go on the back of her chair reading “the queen sits here.”

Joy – more ways to please her customers with special parties.

Johnny - a whole lot of tips and lots of hot sex.

Malcolm - that XXX-book that was reviewed in Ambush.

Debbie – a title that fits her or at least satisfies her yearnings.

Joseph – more beautiful men hanging out around his pool.

Josie – a private driveway or at least permission to park off the street.

Walter - more leisure time at his beach home.

Barry – someone to love and love and love.

John – completion of his book.

And to those of you who aren’t included – well, I ran out of space.

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Hound Dogs Johnny & friend

Ty & Stephen out with friends

Checking out belly buttons

Cutie Quentin at work The Diva with her cutie

Johnny & Joy having fun

Clowning around at George’s

Enjoying the performances Gorgeous Ty at Splash Rocky & the boys

Andy & Rocky

Entertainer of the Year Nicole Foxx performing Having fun at George’s

Richard with Splash DJ Karen

Two very handsome studs

The king & his stud again

Daniel with a cutie stud

red stick paparazzi

Another talented Diva

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Cody taking a break

Divas & Studs ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict

Richard & Daniel

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mobile

paparazzi

Why blondes have more fun & not brunettes

Judson relaxing @ B-Bob’s

Richard, Darrell, David, Danny & Chase catch the Colton Ford Concert

pensacola Emerald City Celebs ~ Pensacola, Florida ~ Photos by Roy Williams

paparazzi

Venus Chante Da Vis on stage @ B-Bob’s A lonely New Orleans hooker, caught on camera outside Emerald City

The Colton Ford Concert brought Broderick & Michael to B-Bob’s If they could only have kids, wouldn’t they be gorgeous

B-Bob’s Bar Baron Jerry gettin’ in the spirit

Monica Kane (r) & her grandson Andy

Vision’s Pooh, Tract & Bean found the beer more interesting

Tim, Jack & Ray, still looking good after all these years

Singer/Porn Star Colton Ford sings for the huge B-Bob’s crowd Rachael Ray (r) & her manager Cy stop

by Emerald City Sadie Calhoun still packs a punch (I mean it, she said she’d hit me if I didn’t publish this pic.)

After losing the election, Sarah Palin has to work the door at Emerald City to make ends meet

Fabulous beautiful Barbara (r) from Emerald City and an admirer

David & Nathan are hot to trot after the concert

Colton Ford “pumps up” a fan, still singing!

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Allison, Christina & Megan enjoying the season

Celebratin’ by the Bay ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by David Long & Craig Powell

Emerald City’s MVP of the Year

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40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • January 6-19, 2009 • GayMardiGras.COM • SouthernDecadence.COM