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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain RipandMarsha.COM E-mail: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Don Evans Slated to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award; Lisa Beaumann & Teryl-Lynn Foxx to Emcee GAA Gala; GAA Top 5 Fly Fashion Glamour & Cheridon Comedy Award Finalists Chosen
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n a unanimous vote by the Gay Appreciation Awards (GAA) Board of Directors, AIDS activist Don Evans was selected as the recipient of the prestigious 22nd GAA Lifetime Achievement Award. This award as well as all of the 2009 GAA Awards will be presented at the 22nd annual GAA Gala on Saturday, July 11, 8-10pm, at Oz, 800 Bourbon Street. Admission begins at 7pm and is $10 at the door. All VIP tables are sold out. Board Members Lisa Beaumann and Teryl-Lynn Foxx will emcee the event. Special guest entertainers include GAA Founder Marcy Marcell, and last years entertainer of the year, Elizabeth Bouvier from New Orleans and Nicole Foxx from Baton Rouge. All Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalists have been invited to do a production number. All stage performance tips, VIP Table sales and door admissions benefit the William Fanning Foundation (Buzzy's Boys & Girls). Since 1997, the GAA Gala has raised a total of $32,626 for charity. The GAA Board also chose the Top 5 Finalists in two award categories. The first award, in memory of the late Ms. Fly of Corner Pocket fame, the Fly Fashion Glamour Award Finalists include Nicole Dubois, Christina Cayne, Dominique DeLorean, Opal Vanderhurst, and Sadie Shepard. The second award in memory of the late Sonny C. Cleveland, a long time Ambush editor, the Cheridon Comedy Award Finalists include Barry Bareass, Rikki Gee, Gia/Baton Rouge, Varla Jean Merman, and Ama Rosa. Winners in both of these categories will be announced at the Gala as well as the Marsha Delain Award of Excellence, the Drag Ambassador Award chosen by Marsha NaquinDelain. Additionally, all of the category winners of the GAA Awards chosen by the Gulf South readership of Ambush in public online voting in early June, will be announced. Lifetime Achievement Award honoree Don Evans is a certified HIV prevention counselor having been involved in the HIV/ AIDS arena for thirteen years. He is currently employed with a not-for-profit agency Natural Resources for Preparing Educating and Changing Environments (N’R PEACE, Inc.), where he serves as the Special Projects Coordinator. Mr. Evans started his HIV career at Pediatric AIDS Program (PAP) Children’s Hospital, although no longer employed for the past eleven years he has continued to provide a service of smiles to the clients by participating as Santa Claus every Christmas Holiday Season. He has served as the manager for Bridge House Drop-In Center for homeless youth by providing countless services including, but not limited to HIV/AIDS education, counseling and testing, food and shelter. From there Mr. Evans went on to continue his services in the HIV/AIDS arena by working as Program Manager for Brotherhood, Inc. As the program manager he implemented a program for Men having Sex with Men (MSM) to reduce their risk for HIV transmission.
22nd GAA Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Don Evans
Mr. Evans has served as the chair person of the Tulane clinical trials outreach department. He is certified by the State of Louisiana as a trainer of trainers (TOT) for HIV Counseling and Testing, TOT for Street Outreach, TOT for the Louisiana Department of Social Services, and the American Red Cross HIV/AIDS Education Department. Past Lifetime Achievement Award recipients include Jimmie Callaway, the late Dan Fountain [Betty Buttons], the late Andy Boudreaux, the late Buzzy Fanning, the late Dirty Dottie, the late Miss Fury, Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain, the late Dan Romero, the late Miss Do, the late Louise McFarland, Miss Dixie Fasnacht, Alice Brady & John Dodt, Gene Adams, the late Charlene Schneider, the late Steve Mettner, Marty Curtin & Koo Gaffney, the late Donald "Donnie Jay" James, Kitty Blackwell, Michael “Fish” Hickerson, Marcy Marcell and Mary L. Lathouwers. The awards thanks those in the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender community who are many times not recognized for the outstanding services and efforts they perform. These individuals and businesses have made the GLBT community into the viable, successful and powerful community it is today across the Gulf South. On-line voting finalists include: Circuit Party/Event of the Year: Gay Easter Parade, Halloween, One Mighty Weekend/Orlando, Red Party/Lafitte's, Southern Decadence; Hair Salon of the Year: Beauty Lounge,
GAA Winners, Christmas in July Edition due out Tues., July 21 DEADLINE: Tuesday, July 14
inside
obituary, e-mail, krewe calendar everybody's a critic dc pride pics/under the gaydar mobile paparazzi celebrazzi snap paparazzi/new orleans official southern decadence trodding the boards halloween new orleans ambush paparazzi/nola las vegas
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Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 info@ambushmag.com Bobby Blue, Headquarters, Mickey Nolan Salon, Salon D'Malta; Gay Carnival Ball of the Year: Krewe of Amon-Ra, Krewe of Armeinius, Krewe of Petronius, Lords of Leather, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon; Neighborhood Bar of the Year: 700 Club, Cafe Lafitte in Exile, The Friendly Bar, JohnPaul's, Tubby's Golden Lantern; Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award: HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two)/Baton Rouge, Toby Lefort, Tony Leggio, NO/AIDS Task Force, Michael "Fish" Hickerson; Bitch of the Year: Aletha Bryant, Paul Chiriaco, Ken Grandpre, Brittney O’Bryan, Princesse Stephaney; Show Bar of the Year: Big Daddy's, George's Place/Baton Rouge, JohnPaul's, Oz, Parade; Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award (named by the GAA Board of Directors in honor of the late Donald "Donnie Jay" James this year): Glitz, New Orleans Gay Men's Chorus, Running With Scissors, The Glass Menagerie, The Roughnecks/ Baton Rouge; Restaurant/Deli of the Year: Bywater Restaurant-Deli-BBQ, Clover Grill, La Peniche, Mona Lisa, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli; Dance Bar of the Year: JohnPaul's, Oz, Parade, Rubyfruit Jungle, Splash/Baton Rouge; Bartender of the Year: Eric Evans/ Rawhide 2010, Paul Harris/700 Club, Joe Macedonia, Jeff Palmquist/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Lance Pippin/Tubby's Golden Lantern, DJ of the Year: DJ Myke/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Johnny Love/Cafe Lafitte in Exile, Mary Pappas/Rubyfruit Jungle, Tim Pflueger/Oz, Richie Rich/JohnPaul's Leather Bar of the Year: Dallas Eagle/ Dallas, Hound Dogs/Baton Rouge, JohnPaul's, Phoenix, Rawhide 2010; GLBT Business of the Year: Alternatives, French Quarter Suites, Queen Fashions, Rab Dab, Sir Speedy Printing; Leather Person of the Year: Michael Albracht, Toby Lefort, Bruce Orgeron, Gary Vandeventer, Matt Worner; Transgender of the Year: Regina Adams, Dee Cooley, Jasmine SX, Rusty LaRoux, Marcy Marcell; Lesbian of the Year: Marty Curtin, Chansley Dykes/Baton Rouge, Mae Falgout, Winnie Green, Red Hanson; Gay Man of the Year: Mike Cookmeyer, Richard Dykes/Baton Rouge, Ken Grandpre, Toby Lefort, Tony Leggio; and Entertainer of the Year: Elizabeth Bouvier, Lauren Brown, Coca, Ama Rosa, The Roughnecks/Baton Rouge. The Board of Directors includes Lisa Beaumann, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, Rip and
Marsha Naquin-Delain and Toni J.P. Pizanie. [continued on 6]
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: 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, Foley, 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 Chris Perkins-Lafayette, LA Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, Gary Glitter, Tony Leggio-New Orleans Bob Brunson, Cieanne & John, 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
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Ambush is the proud sponsor of the Gay Appreciation Awards since 1997. For more info, visit AmbushMag.COM/GAA.
Tittie Toulouse & Paloma Continue Reign; Southern Decadence Press Party Late July at JohnPaul's
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ittie Toulouse and Paloma, 2008 Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV, will continue their reign for the 2009 Southern Decadence XXXVIII celebration since Hurricane Gustav cut their reign short last year, cancelling their parade. Excitement is already brewing as e-mails and inquiries pour in to Ambush Headquarters and SouthernDecadence.COM for the upcoming Labor Day Weekend extravaganza, September 2-7, which is expected to pump millions of dollars into the local economy with some 100,000 participants anticipated.
Street outside the Lantern. Around 4ish pm the grand marshals head to Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street to lead the 16th annual Southern Decadence Bead Toss. And on Monday, don't forget the 12th annual Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl starting at The Corner Pocket, 940 St. Louis Street, at 2pm.. Loads of other events are scheduled as well. You can check out the most comprehensive list at SouthernDecadence.COM and click on 38th Southern Decadence Events/2009. You can also book your hotel accommodations right from the Southern Decadence website.
Back By Popular Demand, Glitz Returns to Harrah's Sept. 3 & 4 for Southern Decadence Weekend 1021 W. J udg e P er ez Judg udge Per ere
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Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma (Photo: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM)
Tittie and Paloma will host the Southern Decadence Press Party in late July at JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields, announcing the 2009 theme, sponsors, poster, song and colors. The choice of JohnPaul's will bring the Bywater, Marigny and French Quarter neighborhoods together for the city's largest GLBT circuit weekend. The oldest traditional events include the annual Southern Decadence Drag Show featuring Tittie Toulouse and Paloma which is set for Friday, September 4 at the Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby's Golden Lantern, beginning at 9pm. The big day is Sunday, September 6 when Tittie and Paloma lead the 35th annual Southern Decadence Parade winding its way through the French Quarter beginning at 2pm sharp at 1239 Royal
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outhern Decadence revelers are sure to head on over to the theatre at Harrah's New Orleans Casino on Thursday and Friday, September 3 and 4 to catch the return of Glitz: The Art of Female Impersonation, back by popular demand. Brought to you by Elias Productions' Tommy and Michael Elias, the show begins promptly at 9pm each evening. Tickets are already selling at a fast pace so don't be left out. Starting at $25, tickets are available at the Harrah's Box Office, by calling 504.533.6600 or by visiting TicketMaster.COM. The emcee is the sassy Bianca Del Rio, voted Bitch of the Year many times by the Gulf South readership of Ambush Mag, now reeking havoc on New York City. With numerous costume changes, Bianca is a stunning Cher in Glitz. She is joined by Teryl-Lynn Foxx doing Diana Ross, Whitney Houston and Dionne Warwick; Lisa Beaumann as Carol
Channing, Judy Garland and Liza Minelli; Blanche Debris as a busty Marilyn Monroe; Lawanda Jackson doing Tina Turner live and portraying Michael Jackson and Mary J. Blige; Christina Cayne as Paris Hilton; and Cotie Collins as Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire. The cast is joined by four talented dancers: Jeremy Roberts who is choreography, Gawain Dupre, Josh Mesa and Darin Eliasen.
Southern Decadence LineUp Set With Circuit Greats; Men of Manwatch at Oz
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ance Club of the Year Oz has big plans for the giant 38th annual Southern Decadence celebration over Labor Day Weekend with it’s mega circuit DJ line-up running September 4-7. The club brings circuit great Joe Gauthreaux on Friday, Phil B. on S a t u r day and David Knapp on Sunday. The hot Men of Manwatch will perform the entire weekend on the bar. You can also look for the resident talents of DJ Tim Pflueger and Jason Lanoux with lights by Johnny Eubanks and Parker. Oz Southern Decadence VIP Passes are going quick, so if you don't have yours, go to OzNewOrleans.COM today. Don't wait in line!
A Re-Return to the 70s & An Afternoon in the Islands
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y popular demand, the Lords of Leather are repeating their Bathhouse Beer Bust on Friday, July 10 at the Phoenix with all the beer/ soda you can drink from 9pm to midnight for only $5. Plus, anyone dressed only in a towel will receive a free shot at the patio bar. Towels will be available for those who don’t want to bring one from home or steal from their hotel. A 50/50 raffle, educational videos, snacks, and lots of frisky business will complete the evening. If you missed it the first time, here’s your chance to get in on the fun. On Sunday the 12th, the Lords will host still another beer bust to help benefit American Brotherhood Weekend’s designated charity: The Leather Archives and Museum in Chicago. Special function lieutenant Pat Johnson has decreed that the theme will be Boxer Shorts, so be sure to pull out your sexiest, scandalous, or most wacky underwear. This special Sunday
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the "official" dish ...from 6 beer bust will run from 8 pm to midnight at the Phoenix. As usual, it’s $5 for all the beer/soda you can drink and the Lords are sure to have some other interesting activities planned. And last, but not least, the Lords of Leather annual LUAU is coming up on July 19th. The festivities begin at 2pm at Lion's Inn, 2517 Chartres Street in the Marigny and end at 6pm. Food, adult beverages, entertainment, and hot, hot men are the feature in the clothing optional tropical pool setting. Several erotic items modeled by various attendees will be auctioned during the afternoon. Tickets are available for $10 from any krewe member. Oh, and be sure and bring your own towel. For more information on any of these events, see the Lords of Leather website at www.lordsofleather.com.
NO/AIDS Task Force Holds 15th Annual Dining Out For Life July 16
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n Thursday, July 16, NO/AIDS Task Force is inviting every one to support a great cause over a great meal for the 15th annual Dining Out For Life fund-raiser. The Task Force has teamed up with over 35 area restaurants to raise funds to help men, women and families affected by HIV and AIDS. Stand up against HIV and AIDS by sitting down at one of your favorite restaurants. All you have to do is gather your family and friends for a good meal at one of the participating restaurants, and 25% of your check will go to supporting the services that NO/AIDS Task Force provides. Additionally, by making an extra donation the night of the event, you will be entered into a drawing for a night’s stay at The International House Hotel or The W New Orleans. Participating restaurants include popular hot spots, longtime favorites and casual eateries in neighborhoods from Metairie to the Marigny, North Shore to the West Bank, and everywhere in-between. There are long time participants such as Louisiana Pizza Kitchen and La Peniche, and new supporters such as Jaegerhaus, Julie’s Little India Kitchen, Nonna Mia Pizzeria & Café and Leonardo Trattoria. Vegans and vegetarians finally have an option at Café Bamboo and Northshore residents can choose from Juniper in Mandeville or Jasmine French Café in Slidell. This year, Dining Out For Life is proud to have Ted Allen as spokesperson for the annual event. Food and wine connoisseur on Bravo’s hit TV series Queer Eye For The Straight Guy, Allen is currently a judge for Bravo’s Top Chef and Food Network’s “ron Chef America as well as host of the PBS series Uncorked: Wine Made Simple. Says Allen: “I’m really privi-
leged to be involved with Dining Out for Life, especially at a time when too many people wrongly believe the HIV/AIDS crisis no longer IS a crisis. New HIV infections are on the rise in a generation of young gay men who weren’t around the first time AIDS ravaged our country; meanwhile, heterosexual women of color continue to be the fastest growing population of people with HIV. Dining Out makes it possible for virtually everyone to make a meaningful contribution to the fight against AIDS, while at the same time having fun and supporting restaurants in their community—it’s a win/win/win!” For More information or the full list of participating restaurants, visit www.diningoutforlife.comor www.noaidstaskforce.org or call 504.821.2601, ext 216. NO/AIDS would like to thank the generous sponsors that make Dining Out For Life possible: Coors Light, Taaka Platinum, Ambush Magazine, Gambit Weekly, New Orleans Magazine, NOLA.com, The Times Picayune, Where
Y’AT Magazine, International House Hotel, W New Orleans – French Quarter and Mix 92.3. NO/AIDS Task Force, the oldest HIV/ AIDS service organization in the Gulf South, was founded in 1983 in response to the early devastating effects of the AIDS epidemic in the New Orleans area. Over the past twenty five years the agency has created a continuum of supportive services to assist people affected and infected by HIV. Programs include HIV prevention education, a medical clinic, food pantry and meal delivery services, mental health, HIV testing & counseling, housing and medication assistance, among many others. The mission of NO/AIDS Task Force is “to reduce the spread of HIV infection, provide services, advocate empowerment, safeguard the rights and dignity of HIVaffected individuals, and provide for an enlightened public.” Over the last 13 years, Dining Out For Life has helped raise over $480,000 for the programs and services of NO/AIDS Task Force. Dining Out For Life International is the
non-profit organization that runs the annual Dining Out For Life® event. Dining Out For Life® is an annual fund-raising event that raises awareness and funding for nonprofit organizations dedicated to the fight against HIV/AIDS. For more information visit www.diningoutforlife.org.
President Obama Emphasizes Family at Historic LGBT Reception
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resident Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, and administration officials welcomed lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people to an historic White House event celebrating LGBT Pride Month and commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, widely accepted as the catalyst for the modern LGBT rights movement. In his address to attendees, President Obama emphasized the importance of everyday Americans realizing
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obituary
e-mail, letters Subject: Pride With A Purpose 2009
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Billy Hyman October 5, 1946-June 22, 2009
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illy Hyman, 62, died at his residence of a massive heart attack in Timmonsville, South Carolina, residing in New Orleans from 1972-2005. He was employed at a lumber company in the 70s and 80s, a national food store in the 80s and 90s; and as a janitor at four bars including former 2601 (now Mimi’s), Friendly Bar, and Big Daddy’s from the 90s through 2002. For 25 years, he hosted his Christmas Party which are sadly missed by his friends. Mr. Hyman was president of the Gay & Lesbian Deaf Club and member of ARSD until he was forced to evacuate due to Hurricane Katrina. He returned to his
would like to thank everyone for their participation and support for Pride With A Purpose. Even though it was a very hot and humid weekend, everyone survived. We raised $12,500.00 for our Mammography Assistance Program. Next year I have changed the date of the fund-raiser. The golf tournament will be Friday, April 2, 2010 and the festival will be Saturday, April 3. Hopefully the weather will be cooler. Again, I want to thank everyone who volunteered their time for this wonderful cause. We are making a difference. Thanks and Love, --Linda birth home town of Timmonsville, South Carolina in 2005. He will be missed for his great laugh and jovial personality. Now he is with his companion of 33 years, Harold Calvin who passed away in November, 2003. Mr. Hyman is survived by sisters Patricia Ann Creech of Timmonsville, Dorothy Cumbee of Spartanburg, Gladys Woodard of Goldsboro, North Carolina, and Jean Stokes of Effingham; and seventeen nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, July 18th, 3-6pm at The Friendly Bar, 2301 Chartres Street, one of his favorite clubs in New Orleans.
krewe calendar Ambush Mag is providing its Carnival/Krewe Calendar to assist Gay Mardi Gras Krewes with their fund-raisers, functions and balls to support and help preserve the cultural fabric of the GLBT community. To submit your carnival/krewe function, e-mail info@gaymardigras.com. Wednesday, July 8th... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents Karen Akers in Concert, $30, Le Chat Noir Sunday, July 12th... ~8pm, 1st Annual Krewe of Mwindo Honors: Celebrating A Night In The Orient, $15 advance, $20 at the door, Attire: Red, Black, or Combination, JohnPaul’s Sunday, July 19th... ~3-7pm, Lords of Leather Luau, Lion’s Inn ~4-6pm, Krewe of Amon Ra Sister “Sundae” Social (home-made ice cream served along with ice-cream drinks), AllWays Lounge Saturday, July 25th... ~Lords of Leather Vegas Game Night, JohnPaul’s Saturday, August 8th... ~9-11pm, Lords of Leather Ms. Louisiana Leatherette Contest, JohnPaul’s Sunday, August 9th... ~4-6pm, Krewe of Amon Ra Miss Turn-About, All-Ways Lounge Thursday, August 13th... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents My First Time, $25, Le Chat Noir
Friday, September 4th... ~10pm, Lords of Leather Decadence Block Party, Phoenix Saturday, September 5th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra Playboy Bunny/ Chippendale Rejects (time and location TBA) Thursday, September 10th... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents Amy Alvarez with Jefferson Turner, $25, Le Chat Noir Thursday, October 1st... ~8pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon presents Andrea Marcovicci sings Songs from the Movies, $30, Le Chat Noir Sunday, October 4th... ~Lords of Leather Halloween Haunted House & Decoration Auction, JohnPaul’s Friday-Sunday, October 16th-18th ~Lords of Leather Mr. Louisiana Leather Weekend, Various Locations Saturday October 24th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra Halloween Party (time and location TBA) Friday, October 30th... ~9pm, Lords of Leather Fifth Friday Beer Bust, Phoenix Saturday, November 21st... ~ 7-11pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Thanksgiving Buffet and Silent Auction with entertainer Lisa Lynn, $10 all-youcan-eat, JohnPaul’s Saturday, November 28th... ~9pm, Lords of Leather American Bandstand, TBA
the "official" dish ...from 8 that LGBT people are not just individuals deserving equal rights and fair treatment, but also members of families—many being parents, themselves. Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director of Family Equality Council, the national organization working to ensure equality for LGBT families, was present at the event. In recent weeks, Chrisler has re-
Sunday, November 29th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra “Pot Luck” function (time and location TBA) Sunday, December 6th... ~Lords of Leather Art Gallery Event & Auction, JohnPaul’s Saturday, December 12th... ~1-5pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Annual Christmas Buffet and Auction, $10 all-you-can-eat, Friendly Bar Annex Sunday, December 13th... ~Krewe of Amon Ra presents AmonRa Rockettes (time and location TBA)
2010 EVENTS Saturday, January 2nd... ~7-11pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon 8th Annual 12th Night Ball, $20 Admission, Country Club Saturday, January 9th... ~8pm, doors open 7:30pm, 12th Annual Krewe of Mwindo Ball, Best Western Landmark Hotel, 2601 Severn Ave., Metairie Sunday, January 10th... ~Lords of Leather Royalty Appreciation Party & Mardi Gras Wreath Auction, JohnPaul’s Saturday, January 23rd... ~8pm, Krewe of Queenateenas’ 17th King Cake Queen Coronation presenting the 2010 King Cake Queen of Gay Mardi Gras, by invitation only Sunday, January 24th... ~7pm, Krewe of Petronius Bal Masque XLIX, site TBA Saturday, February 6th... ~8pm, Krewe of Amon Ra Bal Masque XLV, Alario Center, Westwego Sunday, February 7th... ~7pm, Mystic Krewe of Satyricon Bal Masque VIII, $20 General Admission, Sugar Mill, 1101 Convention Center Blvd. Friday, February 12th... ~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 Saturday, February 13th... ~12noon, Annual Spanish Town Parade, 5th & Spanish Town Road, Baton Rouge ~8pm, Krewe of Armeinius Bal Masque XLII, Alario Center Sunday, February 14th... ~8pm, Lords of Leather Bal Masque XXVII, Alario Center
MARDI GRAS (Fat Tuesday), February 16th... ~12noon, 46th Annual Bourbon Street Awards, Oz, Corner of St. Ann at 800 Bourbon St. ~2pm - 23rd Annual Official Gay Mardi Gras Bead Toss, led by King Cake Queen XVII, Ambush Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St.
ceived and responded to criticism for engaging with the White House, seen by some, including Chrisler, as moving too slowly towards equal rights for LGBT people. “Today President Obama reaffirmed his commitment to equality for LGBT people in front of a tough crowd, myself included,” said Chrisler. “The President acknowledged and encouraged our lack of patience, calling upon us to do what all citizens should do—pressure their governments to act quickly to ensure equal rights as quickly as possible. I was particularly pleased to hear the President recognize how central family is to so many of our lives and that through our families’ stories we can change hearts and minds. Tomorrow I look forward to continuing the hard work of advancing equality. Today I acknowledge this historic moment with my spouse, Cheryl, and our two kids, who at seven years old finally have a president who values their family.” The Family Equality Council works to ensure equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families by building community, changing hearts and minds, and advancing social justice for all families. For more information, visit www.familyequality.org.
New Report Documents Racial Profiling In Louisiana
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ew Orleans, LA - Widespread racial profiling by law enforcement agents remains a pervasive problem in Louisiana and throughout the United States, according to a report by the American Civil Liberties Union and the Rights Working Group (RWG). Government policies are a major cause of the disproportionate stopping and searching of racial minorities by law enforcement agencies, according to the report, which was submitted today to the U.N. Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD). “Racial profiling remains a widespread and pervasive problem throughout the U.S., impacting the lives of millions of people in the African American, Asian, Latino, South Asian, Arab and Muslim communities,” said Chandra Bhatnagar, staff attorney with the ACLU Human Rights Program and the main author of the report. “The U.S. government must take urgent, direct action to rid the nation of the scourge of racial and ethnic profiling and bring this country into conformity with both the Constitution and international human rights obligations.” The report includes information about ongoing racial profiling in Louisiana, where the ACLU continues to monitor complaints of police abuse. Last year, the ACLU of Louisiana released a report, Unequal under the Law, which highlights problems of racial profiling in communities around the state. Based on a year-long study, the ACLU discovered that law enforcement agents routinely stop African-Americans far out of proportion to their number in the population. Since that time, the ACLU has continued to receive reports that African-Americans are targeted by police. In 2009, the ACLU of Louisiana learned that an elderly African American man was killed by police on the front porch of his home in Homer, near the Arkansas border. Members of the Homer community identified this killing
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everybody's a critic by Gary Glitter E-mail: gglitter04@yahoo.com
Pageant Queens, Showgirls, Passports, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals, Winners
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ell, here we are again, it seems like every time I think that I can rest, it’s time for another deadline. Guess that’s the way of the newspaper. Heard many good things about the benefit for Tami Tarmac and all the money that she raised for her quest to go to Miss Gay Louisiana America 2009 in Baton Rouge. It’s expensive to put these girls together and they need every little bit they can get. Wonder if she got a new Bedazzler, so she can have some new jewelry?? Haha!!! Am hearing rumors that a former Starlight “diva” has decided to go to the Elysian
Fields end of town to do her shows. Look for the ad in the paper. Good luck y”all !! What “legendary” patron of the Golden Lantern is planning his own “Surprise Birthday Party” for the end of August? And so it’s done correctly, he is planning every detail from the roast pig buffet right down to the show with the performers that he wants and the songs they will do. ( I guess if you want it done right, you have to do it yourself) And speaking of roast pigs, I see that the Lords of Leather is having a Luau on July 19th at the Lion’s Inn. Now, who wouldn’t want to go to see hunky men in grass skirts, and get a lei at the same time? Wonder if they are going to have a Princess Come-onI-Wanna-Lei-Ya contest??? Betcha by the end of the evening, they’ll be some grass mowed. Just read in another sissy gazette, that if you live in a state that acknowledges gay marriage or civil unions, that you can now have your married name put on your U.S. passports. The name change revision took effect on May 27, in an addition to the State Departments Foreign Affairs Manual. So as you can see we are slowly making some kind of progress, but these little steps are important to all of us. As you all probably know by now, that Paloma and Tittie Toulouse will again be the Grand Marshal’s of Southern Decadence XXXVIII, due to the Hurricane Gustav of 2008, that cancelled last year's parade. An official announcement concerning the “theme, colors, and song” will be at the end of July at JohnPaul's. Look for this year to be even better than in the past, as I know that we’re all ready to have a good celebration. And you know that with the heat the way it is, it will be plenty warm, so I expect to see “skimpy, skimpy, skimpy”. And while we are on the subject, once again as in the past, the line-up for the parade will be at Tubby’s Golden Lantern with parade time at 2pm sharp on Sunday, September 6! Expect to see some new things to be happening before hand starting at approximately 12noon when the parade marchers start showing up. Will inform you when things get closer to that time!?!! (Ok, here’s a hint: red carpet, impromptu drag show, TV cameras). Hmmmm!!!! Guess we’ll be finding out soon who the winners are for the 22nd Gay Appreciation Awards on July 11th at Oz. It should be a fun evening. I’ll be there with my camera to capture all the beauty of all the attendees, and the happiness of the winners, and the ones that didn’t! And now the end of this, another column for y’all. Don’t forget to keep cool, stay out of the heat, and I have to go shop for some more popsicles!!!
the "official" dish ...from 10 as part of a larger pattern of harassment of African-Americans. The Chief of Police in Homer, Russell Mills, told a reporter, “If I see three or four young black men walking down the street, I have to stop them and check their names. I want them to be afraid every time they see the police that they might get arrested.” ACLU of Louisiana Executive Director Marjorie R. Esman said, “Louisiana has a long and tragic history of racial discrimination. It is past time for law enforcement to stop racial profiling and treat everyone, regardless of their circumstances, equally as the law requires. It is no longer acceptable to target people based on their appearance. The people of Louisiana deserve better.” The report came in response to a last-minute Bush administration submission to CERD in January 2009 that was plagued by omissions, deficiencies and mischaracterizations. In both its initial report to CERD in April 2007 and the follow-up submission in January, the Bush administration relied on the Justice Department’s 2003 “Guidance Regarding the Use of Race by Federal Law Enforcement Agents” to support claims the government was taking steps to eliminate racial profiling. However, that document doesn’t cover profiling based on religion or national origin, doesn’t apply to state or local law enforcement agencies and doesn’t include any mechanisms for enforcement or punishment for violating the recommendations. It also contains a blanket exception to the recommendations in cases of “national security” or “border integrity.” As a result of U.S. reliance on the vague Justice Department guidance and other Bush policies, people of color have been disproportionately victimized through various government initiatives including FBI surveillance and questioning, special registration programs, border stops, immigration enforcement programs and the creation of “no fly lists,” according to today’s report. CERD is an independent group of experts that oversees compliance with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, a treaty signed and ratified by the U.S. in 1994. All levels of U.S. government are required to comply with the treaty’s provisions, which require countries to review national, state and local policies and to amend or repeal laws and regulations that create or perpetuate racial discrimination. In February 2008, ACLU of Louisiana Legal Director Katie Schwartzmann presented testimony to CERD concerning racial profiling and other race discrimination in Louisiana.
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under the gaydar by Tony Leggio E-mail: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Tony’s Excellent Gay Adventure in the Nation's Capital
Washington DC Gay Pride Celebrates Stonewall’s 40th Anniversary ~ Photos by Tony Leggio
Pride Grand Marshal Valerie Harper Martha Wash singing “It’s Raining Men” live at the Pride Festival
Southwest Airlines Float
Float in the Pride Parade
Michelle & Tony at Gay Pride Festival DC Cowboys Float
Homomoto Gay Motorcyle Club in the Gay Pride Parade Miss Gay Pride 2009 at the Pride Festival
Leather Float
Drag performance in front of the Capital building
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eople all over have asked me what Gay Pride New Orleans is like? That is a tough question to answer. In New Orleans, we have gay pride 365 days of the year, why just celebrate one day. Unlike other cities, New Orleans embraces our gay heritage and life-style during every holiday throughout the year. We have a Gay Easter, Gay Halloween, Gay Mardi Gras, and last but not least, Southern Decadence. Now do not get me wrong, I would love to have a gay pride celebration that rivals other cities, imagine Sydney, Montreal, New York, or even Baton Rouge. But unfortunately, that time is not upon as of yet. And I do give kudos for the attempt of several organizations in the city to pull together a last minute attempt at a gay pride celebration last week. I attended it and although it lacked the pomp and circumstance, it had potential. That is why I am getting on the committee to bring Gay Pride back to a status that we can be proud of, excuse the pun. If you are interested in being a part of this, contact me for more information. But I digress. So what does one do if their city’s gay pride celebration is less than expected. You grab your pink passport and take a plane, train or automobile to the queer destination of your choice. This past week, I did just that and flew to Washington, DC for their gay pride celebration. I have been to DC before but never for Gay Pride and it definitely was an experience. So I hope you enjoy some of the highlights of the trip I affectionately entitled Tony’s Excellent Gay Adventure in the Capital. After Katrina, one of my best friends, Michelle left the Crescent City for DC for her job. She purchased a sweet condo in Dupont Circle, the main gayborhood in the capital city. So it is here that my adventure begins. First, DC’s pride is a two week long celebration with theatrical offerings, lectures, educational seminars, parties, dance raves, networking opportunities, a parade, all culminating in a street festival and concert. I landed excitedly on the Thursday before the second weekend of festivities. Got settled in her condo’s luxurious spare room and we were off for happy hour at JR’s on 17th Street. And what a happy hour, as far as cruising, good lord, you could not move without stumbling over the next hottie. After enjoying the scenery, we went to dinner at Starz, a restaurant in Dupont that specializes in waiters singing show tunes. Can’t get more gay than having linguine with Lloyd Weber or crab cakes with a little Cole Porter. Reasonable prices on the food, great atmosphere and very cute and talented gay waiters, what more can you ask for. The following day, we went and saw Lynda Carter’s cabaret performance at the Kennedy Center. Who knew Wonder
Woman sang. I was pleasantly surprised by her concert. And did the gays come out to see her. There were lesbians with Wonder Woman tattoos a plenty. She looks incredible and even did her Wonder Woman spin to a standing ovation. Her latest CD is entitled At Last and is on sale now. Now here is a little bit of useless trivia, in early June 2008, Carter found a body floating in the Potomac River while rowing out of the Potomac Boat Club. Could you imagine when the police arrived to find Wonder Woman at the scene? Now I did do more than just gay oriented sights while I was in DC, I went to the Smithsonians and other historical points of value. Okay, I went to the Smithsonian Museum of American History to see one of the major exhibits of American culture, Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers from the Wizard of Oz. Call me shallow, but I waited behind every queen on the Eastern seaboard to get a look at those shoes. Oh, and the Declaration of Independence was pretty cool too. Next, another gay favorite was in town premiering her new play which is heading to Broadway. So we made our way to the Lincoln Theatre to see Valerie Harper in Looped. Harper plays Tallulah Bankhead in this hysterical romp. I have to say that this has got to be one of the funniest plays I have seen in a long time. Harper excels at the role as the heavy drinking and bawdy Bankhead. I found myself laughing out loud often. Make it a point to see this show, you will not be disappointed. As far as Harper, I grew up watching the Mary Tyler Moore Show when I was young and fell in love with independent Rhoda character. So it was a treat to watch her perform on stage. Once we emerged from the theatre, we were off to do a quick change and go to the Gay Pride Parade. We got tickets to the VIP section which put us up close and personal to all the floats and parading groups. Since DC is not as progressive as New Orleans in their thinking, we had to hide our vodka in my man bag. I brought big gay beads so we instantly became popular with the people around us. Tip to queens traveling to other cities from New Orleans, bring cool beads, it can get you things like free drinks, entrance into clubs and even laid if the beads are good enough. After my adventures with the beads I brought, I sent a thank you card to Beads by the Dozen. Back to the parade. All I can say is amazing. There were dykes on bikes, there were the DC cowboys in g-strings dancing on the back of a hay wagon, there were lesbians in bikinis, and Southwest Airlines had a float in the shape of a plane with drag queens as airline attendants. Ms. Valerie Harper was the grand marshal and she was wonderful. The gay bars were not the only ones who paraded. I was pleased to see many and I do mean many religious organizations, churches and activist groups. Who knew their were so
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many specialized groups. Also their were the gay sporting teams. There was the gay rowing team, the gay rugby team, the gay bowling team, the gay volleyball team, and gyms galore. Lots of hot, nubile bodies paraded themselves in front of thousands of parade goers. Did you know there is a gay Super Bowl in October in DC? I am not the biggest football fan, but this might be one game that might be worthwhile checking out. Speaking of hot bars, while I was in town, I made it to a fun club called Nellie’s Sports Bar. Yes, there is a gay sports bar. It has the most incredible happy hour with $1 drinks. I even went to their version of drag bingo. It was very fun, but I’m still partial to ours at the Oz with Princesse Stephaney or Blanche Debris. The following day was the festival. Okay, I was prepared for it to be big, but I never imagined it would be four blocks long with over 100 booths and a concert that was remarkable. There were three stages, one was a drag stage, that spotlighted the talent of the incredible entertainers in the city. The next stage was the arts stage that highlighted smaller local singing groups and songwriters. And the main stage which was situated with the US Capital Building as its backdrop, was where Michelle and I found ourselves front and center at the end of the festival. We got to see fabulous performances by the Washington DC Gay Men’s Chorus, the DC Cowboys, Odd Girl Out, and a exhilarating performance by the Dyke Diva with her female dancers. Then the two headliners hit the stage. First was Ms. Martha Wash who sang her camp classic It’s Raining Men, then the incomparable RuPaul took the stage making several costume changes throughout her show. And, she proved to be every bit the diva. He performed releases from his current CD on sale now called Champion. His message of love and hope for the world and most especially the gay community was an uplifting way to end the festival. Well there you have it, the highlights from my big gay adventure in the Capital. There was a lot more I could have written about, but I was told to just put in the PG13 events. I will release the uncut version in my memoirs. Seriously, for more information on Washington, DC Gay Pride, go to their website, www.capitalpride.org.
The Expanded Definition of Celebrity
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o sooner was I back on Tuesday, then I was asked to be a celebrity bartender on Wednesday for LA Thai's weekly Celebrity Bartenders Night benefiting different charities. Okay, so they expanded their definition of celebrity if I was asked, but I was up for the challenge. I was partnered with the Tales of the Cocktail Angels, Michelle, Melissa and Christina. Let me tell you if their was ever a time I felt like Bosley, it was then standing next to three beautiful ladies. The event took place at La Thai restaurant located at 4938 Prytania Street Uptown. I was making complimentary mojitos all night and let me tell you, I am not used to seeing the bar from the other side. I prefer the side I am normally on. But not only did I make probably 200 mojitos, but I also taught people how to make
them. All under the watchful eye of one of the most beautiful men I have ever met, Corey, who is the La Thai bartender on Wednesday nights. He is my new boy crush. And, he also is a hairdresser at Color Bar on Magazine Street. They passed great appetizers and the drinks were excellent if I say so myself. And speaking of cocktails, one of the most amazing events is happening this weekend July 8 - 12. The 7th Annual Tales of the Cocktail takes place and is the most spirited event of the summer. There are great parties put on by major liquors from around the world, seminars, tasting events just to name a few of the things. This is a must for anyone who loves a good cocktail and New Orleanians fall in that category. And, they get people from all over the world in attendance, so a great opportunity to meet some very cool people. For more information on events and tickets, go to www.talesofthecocktail.com.
Serving it up at B-Bob’s, Jerry & Joe with bar owner Jerry E.
Recording artist Abigail joins event promoter Bob Brunson @ B-Bob’s
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Congratulations Valerie Landry
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wanted to take a moment to congratulate one of my dear friends, Valerie Landry from Pat O'Brien's, on being one of the March of Dimes Spotlight on Success participants. She and lots of other gorgeous men and women participated in getting packages together to auction off at their Gala on June 19 at Generations Hall. It was a fun night of good food provided by local restaurants, great cocktails and entertainment. There were even many people in the gay community in attendance at this event and lots of eye candy for everyone. For more information on the March of Dimes and what they do both locally and nationally go to www.marchofdimes.com.
Continue the Tradition of Gay Mardi Gras Together
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2009 Order of Osiris King & Queen @ B-Bob’s
Goddess of the World, Gina Germaine
A celeb joins Mr. Gay Pride 2008 Seven Iman
ast but not least, I wanted to take a moment to talk about the Gay Carnival Krewes. I am a member of Satyricon, which is a wonderful organization and puts on an incredible ball. There are many other krewes out there also such as Mwindo, Lords of Leather, Petronius, Amon Ra, Armeinius, People of Substance, the Radical Fairies and Apollo Baton Rouge. Please check out all of these organizations. In this time of economic upheaval, we need your support more than ever. I try to participate in many of the other krewe’s events as possible and lend my support. I want to thank the wonderful people from Amon-Ra, who named me as Prom King of their Prom Night they held over at JohnPaul’s the other weekend. It was a fun event and I was honored to be named Prom King, mostly because in high school we never had a Prom King, but even if we did, I doubt I would have been given that title. But I want to stress, that even if you are a member of one krewe, please try to support the other organizations. And help us continue the tradition of Gay Mardi Gras together.
The girls from New York @ B-Bob’s
Pensacola’s Valerie Hart & friends @ B-Bob’s Enjoying the Tea Dance Party @ B-Bob’s
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ave an event or have some thing of interest to the LGBT community, feel free to send press releases or information to tonymgp@hotmail.com. B-Bob’s DJ Robbie C. snags a cutie
Miss Georgia USofA Penny Holiday
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Putting The D in Diva~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John
under the gaydar ...from 14
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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)
AMBUSH
MAG.COM 828
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utter’s hosted its June Birthday Bash for all those celebrating birthdays in June in New Orleans. The party atmosphere goes into full swing complete with a complimentary buffet and birthday cake. (Photo: Birthday celebrants Marsha and Peewee join Cutter’s bar baron Mac McAll)
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O
ne of the top recording artist on the circuit, Abigail, joins Mobile’s legendary blonde bombshell, Miss Cie, following her blowout concert performing her latest release Forever Young at B-Bob’s in Mobile, Alabama.
aul Harris (GAA Top 5 Bartender of the Year Finalist) joins Corner Pocket’s Michael Elias and 700 Club’s Mike Cookmeyer (GAA Top 5 Man of the Year Finalist) celebrating The Corner Pocket’s 17th anniversary, Sugar Daddy Sunday, in New Orleans. Mike Cookmeyer went on to win the second Sugar Daddy of the Year contest as part of the festivities which included a great buffet by Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli and the Sunday Calendar Boy Contest hosted by Barry Bareass.
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he Krewe of Amon-Ra crowned their 2009 Prom King and Queen Tony Leggio and Alexis Daniels under the direction of Special Function Lieutenant Keny Fernandez. The annual event was hosted at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist JohnPaul’s in New Orleans. The Prom King and Queen are chose from those in the running raising the most money. Prom Night benefits the krewe’s 45th bal masque set for Saturday, February 6, 2010 at the Alario Center. For more on the krewe visit KreweOfAmonRa.COM.
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illiam and JT join bar baron Mike “Cookie” Cookmeyer for the 1st Cajun Cookout at GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist 700 Club in New Orleans. The fellas served up a batch of their homemade alligator sauce piquante along with jambalaya benefiting Covenant House of New Orleans raising over $1,000 for the charity. Alligator Red donated the alligator meat for the affair.
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Blake & Stephen
Double Play owner Bill with bartender Mike, asleep on his feet again! King Cake Queen Tami Tarmac raises $1,500 at JohnPaul’s to help send her to Miss Gay Louisiana America
Outgoing Prom King & Queen John Richardson & Cathy Fox Amon Ra Capt. Timm Holt & Pres. Safonda Peters
Philip & GAA Top 5 Cheridon Comedy Award Finalist Rikki Gee at JohnPaul’s to support Tami
Trevor welcomes you to Double Play in the Financial District
snap paparazzi
Lee & GAA Founder Marcy Marcell
Fellow Top 5 Bitch of the Year Finalists Princesse Stephaney & Paul Chiriaco supporting Tami at JohnPaul’s
Special Function Lt. Keny Fernandez & partner Kenny Falco
Gregory behind the bar at Society Page, your Rampart Street Essence Fest Headquarters
Queen Amon Ra XLIV Rhonda Roget & XLIII Opal Masters Prom King Contestants Stuart Nettles, Nathan Brooks & Tony Leggio
Prom Queen Contestants Barbara Ella, Alexis Daniels & Bubbles Champagne
GAA Top 5 DJ of the Year Finalist Richie Rich spinning for Tami at JohnPaul’s
Jay Cooper & Gizelle Bouvier
GAA Top 5 Entertainer of the Year Finalist & Miss LSGRA Elizabeth Bouvier & Barry Rutherford MC Tami’s affair
Danny, Dennis & David slingin’ cocktails at JohnPaul’s
JohnPaul’s friendly owners John & Paul, the only club to ever take GAA Top 5 Finalists in all bar categories, Dance Bar, Leather Bar, Neighborhood Bar & Show Bar
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Hot! Hot! Hot! ~ New Orleans, Louisiana ~ Photos by Ambush
GAA Top 5 Carnival Ball of the Year Finalist Krewe of Amon Ra’s Prom Night at JohnPaul’s ~ Photos by Ambush
King & Queen Amon Ra XLIV Nick Olivares & Rhonda Roget
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trodding the boards by Patrick Shannon, III E-mail: nedcat@earthlink.net
Leader of the Pack, The Ellie Greenwich Musical
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Left Feet Productions recently presented a 3 day run of Leader of the Pack, The Ellie Greenwich Musical on the stage of Southern Rep Theater. Once again, that uber talented Frannie Rosenberg concocted a charming and joyful show with a cast of 23 young people mostly still in high school. The musical is a showcase of the work of song writer Ellie Greenwich who wrote all those wonderful tunes we danced to during the 1960s. The show gives us a simple plot based upon some of the highlights of the life of Ms. Greenwich played with a frisky charm by Morgan Laurent. Young Ellie was played by Lainey Farber and Cherie Ducote played Rosie. Jeff Barry was performed by Price Provensano with Jeffery Lockhart played by Gus Sharkey. All of the performances were top notch but just as amazing were the 22 hit songs brought out by a roster of great local voices and delightful choreography of Frannie Rosenberg. Do you remember songs like Be My Baby; Do Wha Diddy; Hanky Panky; Chapel of Love; Leader of the Pack; Da Doo Ron Ron; and River Deep, Mountain High to name a few? All of the songs chosen brought back memories to this old hippie from the sixties. What a joy to hear them again so well done! Suffice to say these actresses and actors could sing and dance amazingly well. They also created memorable roles in this lovely show. We got to enjoy the talents of Abbey Peterson, Natalie Boyd, Katie DelGiorno, Claire Laurent, Lacey Faucheaux (who blew me away with her talent but also because in profile she resembled the world renown bust of Nefertiti the most famous Queen of Ancient Egypt), Jessica Harrison, Emily Classen, Bridget Miller, Ashley Monaghan. Katie Messina, Laney Simmons, Alexi Langlois, Kelsey Makofsky, Greta De La Rua, Dylan Troost, Patrick Hill, Walker Sevin, and Jesse Karmazin. Eric Porter did the clever stacked record inspired set design; Stephen Thurber created the successful lighting, and those clever costumes circa ’60 were designed by Frannie Rosenberg and Rebecca Marcus. The excellent band consisted of Natalie True, Ethan Anderson, Jimmy Williams, and Travis Henthorn. Where does all this talent come from? It comes from our town, New Orleans. Nah!
Jerker or The Helping Hand, A Pornographic Elegy with Redeeming Social Value and a Hymn to the Queer Men of San Francisco inTwenty Phone Calls, Many of Them Dirty
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erker or The Helping Hand, even in an abbreviate version of the complete title, certainly has the correct title for a play about pornographic telephone sex on the surface, but really about AIDS in a stylishly creative manner for a drama. The playwright, Robert Chesley, died of this disease at the age of 47 after writing numerous full length and one act plays. This creative man composed music; and was a critic for a West Coast newspaper. So, he was actively involved with this epidemic of HIV and AIDS during 1980; and certainly was personally qualified to write about it. Today, his sentiments might be considered dated regarding this subject, but in Jerker, to further abbreviate the plays title, Mr. Chesley wrote a play that uses 20 phone calls between
two men who never meet but develop a true friendship via those often dirty/sensual/erotic phone calls. This was a very different and clever approach to use. In the course of these calls, the true nature of the play’s intent is dramatically revealed when one of the callers, Bert, turns around for a moment with his back facing the audience on which can be seen a very obvious dark mark or skin lesion, a sure sign that he is infected. It is odd and sad that perhaps some of the younger members of the audience might miss this dramatic clue, but to those of us who lost friends and are still losing friends to HIV/AIDS, this somewhat subtle scene on stage brings to mind those years of suffering and fear. Jerker may be considered a tired foot note of concern among those people who were caught up in the struggle against HIV/AID from 1980 on. But it’s still with us and doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon. Jason George gave us one of his best roles yet playing the part of the infected character Bert; and Michael Sullivan did the same interpreting his role as a gay man anxious to “get off” by calling his phone-sex-buddy Bert. Both actors presented us with very convincing performances. As Janice, Miss Led without speaking a word, created some very touching moments as Bert’s counselor and caretaker. Frederick Mead’s direction was well done; but the pacing of the show was far to slow. Good lighting was done by Zalia BeVille; and the all important audio needs were more than satisfied by the team of Ricki Gee and Philip Gordon of G*Wiz Creative.
True West
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n an interview with theater critic, Robert Coe, this is what playwright Sam Shepard said about True West: “I wanted to write a play about double nature, one that wouldn’t be symbolic or metaphorical or any of that stuff. I just wanted to give a taste of what it feels like to be two-sided. It’s a real thing, double nature. I think we’re split in a much more devastating way than psychology can ever reveal.” True West was first performed at the Magic Theatre in San Francisco, where Tom Shepard was the resident playwright. It had its world premiere there on July 10, 1980. It was originally directed by Robert Woodruff and featured Peter Coyote (Austin) and Jim Haynie (Lee). In this play Sam Shepard tells the tale of two brothers. Austin(played by Silas Cooper) is a “successful” young man with a family and a budding screenwriting career house-sits for his mother who is away on vacation. He has come there for privacy to work on a screenplay, but is quickly interrupted by his brother Lee (acted by Jason Kirkpatrick) an unshaven alcoholic, thief, and “loser” who has also decided to return home. At first, Lee only intends to steal a few items of value from his mother’s neighbors, then move on. Although Austin protests, he quickly realizes there is little he can do to change his brother’s behavior and simply requests that he be out of the house by the following day when Austin is expecting a visit from a Hollywood producer, Saul Kimmer (performed by Michael Cahill). The next day, however, Kimmer is still there when Lee returns with a stolen television set. Lee arrives, and eventually in front of a horrified Austin, he convinces Saul to go golfing with him the next day. On the golf course, Lee pitches his own movie idea to the producer. Lee comes home ecstatic and excitedly informs Austin that Saul wants to make his movie. Although a little skeptical, Austin is happy for his brother until he realizes Saul wants him to junk his own screenplay and help Lee write his trashy Western tale.
Austin becomes despondent and begins drinking. He refuses to help Lee who insists that it can’t be that hard. Lee explains to Austin that his own life of petty crime is much more difficult to navigate. He bets Austin that he couldn’t even steal a toaster. The two brothers gradually undergo a role reversal. As Lee vainly attempts to put his movie idea into script form, Austin goes on a stealing spree. The next morning finds Austin polishing more than thirty toasters he has stolen from neighborhood houses, while Lee, now the frustrated writer, smashes the typewriter with Saul’s golf clubs. Soon the two brothers are, quite literally, at each other’s throats. As Austin chokes the life out of Lee with a phone cord, their helpless mother - who is called Mom (acted by Janet Shea) - returns home, and simply announces that she is going to a motel and says: “You’ll have to stop fighting in the house. There’s plenty of room outside to fight. You’ve got the whole outdoors to fight in.” Finally, Lee lies motionless. Austin believing he has just killed his brother, moves towards the door. As soon as he releases the cord, however, Lee springs to his feet and blocks the exit. True West is the first production of the NOCCA Stage Company and I found it to be credibly done by this company. Jason Kirkpatrick played the role of the wild, beer and Bourbon drinking, bear alcoholic brother with intensity and frightful effectiveness. He literally tears up the set and props in his searing portrayal of Lee. Mr. Kirkpatrick is a very big, burly actor; and both the size of his body and the big crazed grizzly bar bear of his stage presence was memorable. His smooth slide from a destructive raging macho schizoid into a cunning con artist was convincing especially his descents into drunkenness and back again into a smart envious brother. I cannot say the same for the role of Austin done by Silas Cooper who gave an uneven performance. He was believable as the educated well mannered successful screen writer, but he was not so effective in those long scenes in which he pretended/acted to be drunk. He did not sustain his “drunkenness”. He slipped in and out of it, which became distracting because it appeared unconscious or just poor acting. Our town’s local theater historian and chronicler, Michael Cahill was miscast as the West Coast movie producer. I have witnessed Mr. Cahill perform some excellent roles. This was not one of them. His portrayal of Saul, the Jewish film maker was not believable. He played Saul as too genial, to easily influenced and to laid back. He appeared too gentle or too much a gentle Gentile to create the image of a greedy ruthless Los Angeles money anti-mensch. I would have appreciated a strong Samuel Goldwyn/Barbara Streisand Hebrew, producer’s lilt in his accent and a less androgynous personality. Without these touches Mr. Cahill looked like a fat round-faced trannie (half way there) wearing a male leisure suit of one hundred per cent polyester: a Wal-mart Blue Light Special. Janet Shea as the Mom of these two psychotic brothers, this Cain and Abel of characters, just had a walk-on role. And that is exactly what she did. She walked on and she walked off. Julie Winn’s costumes were effective, especially Michael Cahill’s polyester-look leisure suit. The sturdy set by Dan Zimmer was fine. A.J. Allegra’s sound design of whining desert winds and spooky coyotes wailing and caterwauling in the night was excellent, as was the lighting of Mr. Zimmer. Janet Shea directed with good pacing and staging. NOCCA’s first production True West can be considered a very worthy effort and suggestive of more and better things to come.
Bourbon Street: A Family History, Episode 2
Y
es, this wild and wacky show premiered at the Backyard Ballroom; and I got to see the last performance. I’m still in shock and reeling! Playwright
Otter’s second installment of Bourbon Street, A Family History carries the musical drama into the ’40s. Directed and designed by Michael Martin, the play has got all the expected New Orleans/ French Quarter types in it, that being: fatherless pregnant females, madames, whores, clowns in masks (I don’t know why yet), evil gin joint females, rich old whore mongers and old men, mostly naked hootchie-mama dancer showgirls in sparkly bare bottom costumes, and opium addicts. Into this hot house mix were added racial canoodling, vivid lipstick Jungle red curtains that refused to open and close smoothly, air conditioning that is mainly imaginative, and people playing at acting who never projected a word all night, even when they sang. From my seat at the back of the theater, the whole show was the equivalent of watching a colorful, soap opera-like, silent film. I guess I got about 5% of the dialogue, but that was enough. In short this experience was a triple camp and I still don’t know if all the screw-ups, over-thetop acting, and totally flat off key singing were intended. Was Madame Otter pulling the wool over our eyes, or was this to be taken as a serious endeavor? No one seems to know, or won’t tell. New playwright Otter, doyenne of the Backyard Ballroom, is a lovely, laid back woman you immediately like after a few minutes of conversation. In this second installment she told me she “explored the intertwined lives of the serenely middle-class Finemans, their ferociously ambitious daughter Lily LeBlanc, sporting house proprietor Miz Mae and her newly betrothed “working girl” Bella, spiritual counselor Ma Bess, and Bourbon Street kingpin James King in her burlesque soap opera, Bourbon Street: A Family History, Episode 2.” This play is “An original comedy/drama set to unfold down the decades in eight installments.” Bourbon Street, A Family History, Episode 2 incorporates six original songs (composed by Otter and Dr. Jimbo Walsh); and, of course, burlesque, especially as performed by special guests, The Slow Burn Burlesque Collective: Nona Narcisse, Lady Lucerne, Natasha Fiore, and Madame Mystere. The story, from a Press Release: “Will opium destroy Lily’s career? What dark secret haunts Miz Mae? Will James King put a stop to the madman Joseph Slade? With Mae and Bess’s help, can Bella cope with unexpected loss? Can Isaac Fineman get the ever-hysterical Marjorie to please calm down? And just who is the father of that baby? Find out in the WWII-years installment, Bourbon Street, A Family History, Episode 2.” Four Humours director Michael Martin came on board to steer this episode, his first shot at a large-cast musical-play. Mr. Martin is a serious and respected talent and it would be just like him to make a joke of this production by steering the whole show into a wreck of acid induced absurd tattered comedy if he wanted to do it. Among the actors, Michael Martin and Otter welcomed back, from Episode 1: Samantha Hubbs, Carlos Gonzalez, Holly Gee, Lou Graff, Megan Clark, and Mike Ober. The performers with their character names were: Samantha Beaulieu (Ma Bess), Blake Buchert (Joseph Slade), Giselle Chatelain (Lily LeBlanc), Megan Clark (Dizzy), Tiara Ford (Grace), Holly Gee (Bella), Kellie Gleason (Marjorie Fineman), Carlos Gonzalez (James King), Lou Graff (Edward Grover), Samantha Hubbs (Bella), Escalante Lundy (Leonard Jackson), Hunter McGregor (Isaac Fineman), Mike Ober (Dr Mason), Paris Robertson (Ma Bess, closing week), Louis St. Romain (Melvin), and the already mentioned Slow Burn Burlesque Collective. The play was written and produced by Otter; Michael Martin’s Assistant Director was Warren Usey. The lovely period clothing were created by Otter. Janna Saslaw was the accompanist. Kaitlin Gresham supplied the lighting. All I can say is if you haven’t had this experience, you should smoke a good home rolled cigarette and see the next show, Episode 3. Believe me, you won’t forget it.
24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 25
ambush
paparazzi
GAA Top 5 Entertainer of the Year Finalist Coca ready at Oz
NO/AIDS Task Force joins New Orleans Guerilla Pride Regular hottie bartender Corey at La Thai's Celebrity Bartenders Night
GAA Top 5 DJ of the Year Finalist Johnny Love working his magic at GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist Cafe Lafitte In Exile
Students celebrating New Orleans Guerilla Pride
A hottie, Al, Dwain, Rudy, a gorgeous showgirl, Joe (Josie Mae Cotton) at the Bette Midler Concert at Caesar's Palace
Raven Kennedy guest stars at GAA Top 5 Show Bar of the Year Finalist Oz
Greetings from Al, Dwain, Joe & Rudy at Paris in Las Vegas’ Eiffel Tower
Hot Men of Manwatch on the bar for Oz’s 17th Anniversary Neon Party Celebrating New Orleans Guerilla Pride
Mark Cotten & Otis Fennell celebrating New Orleans Guerilla Pride at FAB
GAA Top 5 DJ of the Year Finalist Tim Pflueger did the honors for Oz’s 17th Anniversary Neon Party
Bachlorette Valerie Landry (center) with well wishers at the March Of Dimes Gala
Josie Mae Cotton shopping for a new “clutch” at the Wynn Hotel and Casino in Vegas
The Community Center celebrates New Orleans Guerilla Pride
Bartender Allen & one his happy customers for Oz’s 17th Anniversary Neon Party
PFLAG at New Orleans Guerilla Pride
Celebrity bartender Tony Leggio & the Tales of the Cocktail Angels at LA Thai's Celebrity Bartenders Night
GAA Top 5 Lesbian of the Year Finalist Marty Curtin hails from GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist, The Friendly Bar
26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
You Got It! ~ New Orleans, Las Vegas ~ Photos by Ambush, Gary Glitter, Tony Leggio
GAA Top 5 Bartender of the Year Finalist Joe hails from GAA Top 5 Dance Bar & Show Bar of the Year Finalists Oz
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 27
CANAL STREET
100 IBERVILLE
200 BIENVILLE
300
600
RAMPART
500 TOULOUSE
BURGUNDY
ROYAL
ST. LOUIS
DAUPHINE
400
CHARTES
DECATUR
CONTI
BOURBON
ST. PETER
framing
Baton Rouge, LA [225] CITY NEWS STAND & VIDEO, North Blvd., 343.2606; Jones Creek, 751.7494 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 MR. BINKY'S OF KENNER, 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 SLIDELLADULT SUPERSTORE, Slidell, LA, 985.646.2616
New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAME, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726
cable shows
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
GOVERNOR NICHOLLS
1200 BARRACKS
1300 ESPLANADE
classifieds
1800
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
00
00
EN 2 0 0 0 C EL H YS 210 ME 0 N IA N F 22 IE LD 00 S
00
RT PA M RA
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 Foley, AL [251] CLUB EVOLUTION, 8380 Highway 59, 251.943.5557, myspace.com/ evolutionclubdance1 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Alexandria, LA [318] OLYMPUS BAR, 4003 MacArthur Dr., 442.6735, OlympusBar.COM 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
New Orleans, LA [504] THE GAR WILLIAMS SHOW, Every Wed. &Sat., 8:30am & 8:30pm, Access Television Channel 78
casinos
French Quarter/Faubourg Marigny/Bywater
bars
florists
bookstores
1100
24
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
1000 URSULINES
23
counseling
900 ST. PHILIP
M AR IG NY
Baton Rouge, LA [225] JDiT NETWORKING SOLUTIONS, Jerry Durden, 229.6108, JDiT.US
Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
ST. ANN
DUMAINE
19
body rubs
computers
New Orleans, LA [504] MASCULINE TOP STUD FOR AWESOME BODY RUBS & MORE 6'0, 178#, w/magic hands & hard gun. 6am-mid. Fantastic 4 hand session avail. In/Out/Hotels. Call Charlie 504.430.7413 [is1409]
ORLEANS
800
FR
RUBYFRUIT JUNGLE, 1135 Decatur St., 373.5431, NOLAJungle.COM SOCIETY PAGE, 542 N. Rampart St., 299.0156 STARLIGHT BY THE PARK, 834 N. Rampart St., 561.8939, StarlightByThePark.COM TUBBY'S GOLDEN LANTERN, 1239 Royal, 529.2860 Shreveport, LA [318] CENTRAL STATION, 1025 Marshall St., 222.2216 KORNER LOUNGE, 800 Louisiana, 71101; 222.9796 Slidell, LA [985] BILLY'S, 2600 Hwy. 190 West, 847.1921
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 New Orleans, LA [504] 700 CLUB, 700 Burgundy, 561.1095, 561.1098, 700ClubNewOrleans.COM ALL-WAYS LOUNGE, 2240 St. Claude, 218.5778 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 CUTTER'S, 706 Franklin, 948.4200 THE DOUBLE PLAY, 439 Dauphine, 523.4517 THE FRIENDLY BAR, 2301 Chartres, 943.8929 GOOD FRIENDS BAR, 740 Dauphine St, 566.7191, GoodFriendsBar.COM JOHNPAUL'S, 940 Elysian Fields Ave., 948.1888, JohnPaulsBar.COM LE ROUNDUP, 819 St. Louis, 561.8340 NAPOLEON'S ITCH, 734 Bourbon, 371.5450, NapoleonsItch.COM 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
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 [is1709]
circuit/events 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 Feb. 12-16, 2010, Official Gay Mardi Gras, New Orleans, LA, sponsored by Ambush, GayMardiGras.COM Easter Sunday, April 4, 2010, Official Gay Easter Parade, New Orleans, sponsored by Ambush, GayEasterParade.COM May 27-31, 2010, Memorial Day Weekend, Pensacola, FL, sponsored by Ambush, GayPensacola.COM June 3-6, 2010, One Mighty Weekend,. Orlando, Florida, sponsored by Ambush, OneMightyWeekend.COM
galleries New Orleans, LA [504] 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
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 CONTEMPORARY BARBER & BEAUTY PARLOR, 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 [is1309]
28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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. [0809] 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! [1109] 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. [0110] 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
massage New Orleans, LA [504] PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY By Patrick LMT - Outcall or Uptown Studio. Safe neighborhood, comfortable studio. Towels available for draping, Non-Sexual, 717.2577, w w w. 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 [is1309] RIGHT TOUCH MASSAGE -- Christopher - Full body therapeutic massage; heated table; private studio; tropical garden; Faubourg Marigny Area, French Quarter. Upgrade (Salt Scrubs Bodywork). Call 504.458.5996 / website www.righttouchnola.com for pictures, location & special. License #LA4553 [is1509]
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
medical Marrero, LA [504] PRIORITY HEALTH CARE CENTER Tloloc S. Alferez, MD, APMC Infectious Disease/Internal Medicine 4700 Wichers Dr., Suite 304/305 Marrero, LA 70072 (504) 644-4787 [is1409]
models/escorts New Orleans, LA [504] MIKEY/NUMBER 1 MALE ESCORT IN NOLA-hot, cute muscle stud, pics at m4rn.com, ID #190508, friendly & discreet. In/Out/Hotels. Body rubs & 4 hands avail. 7 days, 6am-11pm. 504.756.9443 [is1409]
museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANAARTSAND 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 10am-
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29
30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
4:30pm, 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 THE SOUTHERN RENEGADES, a Levi/ Leather Club, southernrenegades.com 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] AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 4560 North Boulevard, Suite 118, 302.5968, AIDSLAW.org 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 METROPOLITANCOMMUNITYCHURCHOF BATON ROUGE, 7747 Tom Drive, 70806, Worship Sunday, 11am, Bible Study Wednesday, 7pm, 225.248.0404, mccbr.org PFLAG Baton Rouge, President Harold Truax, 225.218.8320 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 OFAPOLLO / 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]
ACLU and ACLU Foundation of Louisiana, P.O. Box 56157, New Orleans, LA 70156, 504.522.0628 x25, Fax: 888.537.0384, laaclu.org AIDS HOTLINE, 821.6050 in New Or-
leans, 1.800.99.AIDS[2437]-9 toll free statewide AIDSLaw of Louisiana, 3801 Canal St., Suite 331, 568.1631, AIDSLAW.org 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 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, 2511 Bayou Road, Suite B, 70119; Office: 504.962.3245, Fax: 504.962.3246; 962.3245, www.inthistogetherinc.org, michael@ittnola.org 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 http:// kreweofpetronius.tripod.com KREWE OF QUEENATEENAS / KING CAKE QUEEN ROYALTY CLUB, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, GayMardiGras.COM/ KCQ
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 31
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 GAY MEN’S CHORUS, 322.7007, nogmc.com; nogmc@aol.com NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL, nojazzfest.com 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 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! 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 New Orleans, LA [504] CHI-WA-WA GA-GA, 511 Dumaine; 581.4242; chiwawagaga.com FRENCH QUARTER PET ASYLUM, 513 Dumaine St., 302.9845 DR. MIKE'S ANIMAL HOUSE, 1120 N. Rampart, 523.4455
pharmacy
hot tails of red stick
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
plumbers New Orleans, LA [504] AVALON PLUMBING, residential & commercial repair & remodeling, call Michael 237.0888 RAMSEY PLUMBING, repairs, repipe, sewer & drain cleaning, water heaters, disposals, 296.6865
printers New Orleans, LA [504] SIR SPEEDY, 343 Carondelet, 586.9812
real estate New Orleans, LA [504] JUDY FISHER, INC. REALTORS, Agent Mary Lind, 874.4905, marylind2020@gmail.com 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 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Magazine Perks, 4332 Magazine, 899.2911, MagazinePerks.COM Marigny Perks, 2401 Burgundy, 948.7401, MarignyPerks.COM Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416
retail/shopping New Orleans, LA [504] ALTERNATIVES, 907 Bourbon St., 70116; 524.5222 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 QUEEN FASHIONS, QueenFashions.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
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 &
by Brad Benedict E-mail: bradhottails@hotmail.com
Going Commando
F
riday, July 31, 2009 will be the first ever National Commando Day — a day when people across the nation will support prostate cancer awareness by not wearing underwear to raise funding for the Prostate Conditions Education Council. 28,000 men die each year from prostate cancer. That’s one death every 19 minutes. 35% of men are more likely to get prostate cancer than women are to get breast cancer yet there is little to no awareness about prostate cancer. National Commando Day is when people will practice being unbound by their underwear together. A new level of freedom and unity will emerge knowing that others have also decided to free themselves. Going commando, being freed, is a great statement to make for prostate cancer which is a taboo subject for men. Even though prostate cancer does not affect you, it can very likely affect those who are close to you. So free yourself and make a stand. Participate on National Commando Day. The mission is to have a day of fun and creating a sense of well being awareness through prostate cancer awareness. National Commando Day is an anti-stigma campaign about prostate cancer. The prostate is a taboo subject and as a result, early detection of prostate cancer does not occur as often as it should. 7 to 9 out of 10 men had prostate cancer by age 80. But neither they nor their doctors even knew they had it. With early detection, prostate cancer can be treatable. If detected too late, many die from this cancer. SALON, 740 Gravier SpaAtlantis.NET
St.,
566.8088,
tattoos/piercings New Orleans, LA [504] AARTACCENT 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
The number of deaths will only increase as the baby boomer generation matures. It is believed that National Commando Day can help break through this stigma and have prostate cancer detection be an common conversation that people have, no matter if you are male or female. Wear a blue ribbon or wrist band to denote your support of prostate cancer awareness, and let the family jewels dangle freely in support of this great cause. It can strike at any age. Be alert to your body’s need for attention in this area, and if you have the right doctor, it can be a nice experience.
Dastardly Error
S
ometimes when I proof my copy for publication, I just don’t see a simple typo, but I’m sure all of you noticed my Mr. Butt Beautiful designation in the last column. Yes – it read 1909 instead of 2009. Sorry about that Joseph. I must have been thinking about my historic home, built in 1909 and about to go on the National Register. You are still the man – always will be. You are truly Mr. Butt Beautiful 2009.
A Few Acknowledgements It was with great pride this year when I browsed the finalists for the 22nd Annual Gay Appreciation Awards sponsored by Ambush Magazine. Congratulations to all of you. In the running in Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award is HAART (HIV/AIDS Alliance for Region Two)/Baton Rouge. George’s Place is up for Show Bar of the Year. The Roughnecks are up for the Donnie Jay Performing Arts Award, and they are also in the category for Entertainer of the Year. Richard Dykes is in the running for Gay Man of the Year, and Chansley Dykes is in the Lesbian of the Year category. I guess the surprise for me was seeing Hound Dogs up for Leather Bar of the Year. Wow! Dance Bar of the Year has Splash in there competing. And Gia has made it in as a finalist for the Cheridon Comedy Award. I hope I haven’t missed anyone. I just wish all of you the very best in your respective categories. It was great seeing Nicole Foxx tie for Entertainer of the Year last year, and it was equally wonderful seeing the Greg Bell AIDS Foundation winning the Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award. Hopefully, Red Stick will bring home some honors this year too.
And In Summary
L
ots of things are going on in old Red Stick. Lots of locals were involved in the big hibiscus convention, and there was quite a bit of participation in the Gay Pride events. In fact, this year presented more being done for interest in Gay Pride than I ever recall before in this city. The area at Magnolia Mound Plantation was the setting once again for this event, and all the bars and some busi-
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[continued on 34]
George's bar baron Richard and Splash bar baron Jeff
red stick paparazzi
Relaxing at Pride exhibit Chica and Coco
Nightlife, Pride, Birthdays ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict
Rick and Tom at Gay Pride
Another Pride booth
Gorgeous Jeremy with Chansley George’s gang at Gay Pride
Capital City Pride royalty
N.O. Gay Men's Chorus exhibit
Hound Dogs’ Joy and Johnny Todd and Mike
Pride booths dotted the area
Trio of Pride participants Todd, Max and some lube Richard and that gorgeous Jeremy again
Rocky with Splash’s Jeff
Celebrating Richard’s birthday
Johnny and Nicole Foxx
Richard celebrating his 60th
Phil, Richard and John
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alexandria, olympus style First Miss Gay Central LA America Pageant in 10 Years by Jodi Belgard ’m writing this from Olympus Bar on the night of Alexandria’s first Miss Gay Central Louisiana America pageant in 10 years. It’s early still, but headlights are beginning to flash into the quiet foyer in anticipation of the night of entertainment yet to come. Contestants are to compete in three categories: evening wear, talent and Q&A, and the winner will be chosen by three local judges. However, we’re still a good hour or more away from the pageant, and it feels necessary to say that lesbians really love a drag show. I feel like I’m sitting in a back corner of Rubyfruit Jungle – circa 1997. The two lesbians who read this will understand. In the meantime drag celebrities Miss Gay Louisiana America 2005, Shreveport’s Dominique Delorian, along with Miss Gay Shreveport Cassidy St. James, Miss Splash (Baton Rouge, for the person who doesn’t know) Miss Ambrosia and Miss Gay Louisiana Alexandria New-comer 2009 Lucinda Majors have entered the building and are making the rounds – and drinking a few – with the growing crowd. Let’s talk fashion for a second. There’s one lesbian in the room (I’m sure she’s a nice girl) who’s wearing a get-up that leaves me dumbfounded. I’m not sure if she’s fashion-forward or if she has a bad back. It’s nearly time for the pageant, and C.J. Jackson, one of Alexandria’s first drag queens and a judge for tonight’s pageant,
I
Jager Promotion Nite
Nites, Tips, Wicked, only at Olympus Bar ~ Alexandria, Louisiana
Olympus Angels
We love Karaoke Nite!!!
SMILE!!!!!
One word…FIERCE!!! 2009 Miss Gay Central Louisiana America Pageant Nite
hot tails of red stick ...from 32
alexandria
paparazzi
Whose your daddy!!! Have you been a bad boi??
I better get a good tip for this!!!
I am wicked thru & thru
nesses participated to the max. Little Quentin (although I know you are not) – oops – did I say that? – was heavily involved in this endeavor. He put together a small booklet of the events at all the important places and with all the great organizations and businesses that contributed to the success of these events. Quentin, my dear, you did good! Moving on, I need to update you on the King of the Hill, so to speak. I refer to the dynamic real estate tycoon and my neighbor Robert. This South Carolinian is not only into property acquisitions, but he is now taking art classes at L.S.U. And if you take a look at his lawn, home, and private patio/swimming area, you will see perfection in the works. I had to get down on my hands and knees to see if I could find a blade of grass off center. Well, I needed the practice, so that was a good excuse anyway. He is just simply one of the most outstanding individuals I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in recent years. He seems to be successful in anything he does, and I’m very proud to call him a friend. You just can’t find a better guy anywhere on the planet. Right, Brandon? And speaking of Brandon, this is another splendid example of quality manhood. He is tall, handsome, and definitely qualified to carry away any smile contest. He has those teeth that just beg to be
took a few minutes to discuss drag and judging. C.J.’s the closest thing to an expert next to Rupaul or Wesley Snipes in To Wong Foo that Alexandria has to offer. “There’s a difference between camp drag and performance,” C.J. said. “Camp drag is comical. It’s expressing your gayness. It’ not being feminine.” But, C.J., a 24-year drag veteran, has seen a change in recent years. “Now it’s got to where the younger crowd feels that they’ve got to show how feminine they are,” she said. “I hang my stuff up in the closet. I was a teacher. I separated the two. I’m a man at work,” she said. “A drag queen is a performer.” C.J. said he originally began doing drag as a form of rebellion. “I was told I couldn’t do it. I was too big. Too overweight. But I decided to do it. I always dressed up in drag at Halloween. Now I can have Halloween anytime I feel like it.” She said that she believes the reason many young gay men do drag now is for the positive attention. “They were picked on in school,” she said. “But it takes balls to be a drag queen.” As a judge, C.J. said she’d focus on originality. “I’ve been around for awhile. I don’t want to see somebody copy someone else’s work. You can do the same number, but you do it your way.” Contestant Marsheya St. Clair did it her way. She and Alexandria’s Felicity Christianson-Taylor are on their way to Baton Rouge. Good luck ladies! viewed in all their glory. Of course, it is always a pleasure to view his great body whether he is washing his wheels or relaxing around the pool. He has a wonderful personality too, and you can see that positive outlook on life shining through whenever you are in his presence. I rather like this in a guy. I’m afraid David and Walker need to do something spectacular soon. The neighborhood is being blessed now with this handsome stud who certainly knows his carpentry. I really don’t know what his status is in life, but I do know that he can kick butt in the looks department, and that body is quite nice too. I’m always looking for that white truck just to get a glimpse of this sexy stud. He is really a nice package of male beauty. Package? Hmmm. I had a visit from Kevin this week, and this is one of those “unsung heroes” you sometimes meet as you go through life. This doesn’t mean that he has done something that warrants a headline in some newspaper or magazine. It means that he is just one of those human beings who stand tall on accomplishments of a personal nature. Whether these accomplishments are in the business world or on a personal basis through friendships, it still comes through as the sign of an outstanding individual. There is none better than this guy. He is great as a traveling com-
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the pink pastor
allons acadiana
by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, 504.214.4340 E-mail: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com www.thebigeasymccblog.blogspot.com
by Chris Perkins, Lafayette, Louisiana E-mail: keebler_6984@yahoo.com
July in Full Swing
T
he month of July is well under way with many great things happening all around Lafayette, and Sound Factory has unleashed a storm of marvelous changes for all of Lafayette and the surrounding areas. John Gilland and the staff of Sound Factory proudly announce a new management team, Macky Fuselier and Chris Perkins. This co-team has been hard at work getting things back on track and running correctly, and are very pleased with the response they have been receiving from the crowd thus far. With different line-ups and incredible drink specials these two will stop at nothing to reach their goal, and that would be, to make Sound Factory Lafayette’s premiere gay dance club and bar! Along with their specials they are also going to be making sure that you can have more fun going out by throwing theme event parties, such like the one they have planned for July 18. Join Sound Factory and the new management team that Saturday night as they host their first Red Party, and the following Friday, July 24 as they present for the first time as well, Bears on the Back Side. They are trying to do what they can to cater to everybody and this is just the start of what they have in mind, and are working diligently to continue to change up all the things that need to be changed to increase the number of people that want to come out. The people that have been around Macky and Chris are very pleased with what they have accomplished so far, and are just as excited to see what they will do next. John is proud of his boys, and knows they have what it takes to make this club
Lafayette’s premiere gay dance club and bar! So hats off to Macky and Chris, congratulations, and good-luck, there are many supporters and we all know that you guys will get it done! If you have not been to Sound Factory, now is the time to go and see what these two guys have up their sleeves, because from what I hear, they just throw random drink specials out there even with the advertised specials, so you really don’t know what to expect from them until you are there. Until next time, have a blast at Sound Factory with the new team, they will be sure that you enjoy your time spent there.
hot tails of red stick ...from 34 panion, as a dinner companion, or as a great conversationalist. You can consider yourself fortunate if you have him as a friend. Danny is another of those guys who you can’t help but love because of his great personality, his willingness to work at important events, or just his absolute inner beauty, a human quality that many have never experienced. It is a type of goodness that presents itself in many forms, and it is a trait that Danny is fortunate to possess. That same inner beauty applies to Michael too. He is one of the most sincere guys I know. He doesn’t change. He remains the same. From a period of relaxation to a day of hard work, you always find him smiling, enthusiastic, and ready to meet any challenge coming his way. He has an intellect too that you don’t find that that often. You recognize it immediately when you are in his company, and it is a joy to experience.
Stonewall
I
have just finished listening to a very stirring and encouraging address given by President Barack Obama in The White House, on the anniversary of the Stonewall riots. The room was filled with the great and the good of the LGBT movement, including Rev. Troy Perry, the founder of my own church – MCC. He said all the right things, (though falling short of admitting his support for
marriage equality!) and said profoundly moving words about that small group of outcasts and misfits – hustlers, drag queens, trans folk, gay men and others, that finally, after years of persecution and bullying, stood up to the police on the night of June 29th 1969. For years before this, respectable gay folk had been going about their lives [continued on 41]
I had another charming visit with Andy when I delivered Ambush to George’s. He is just simply one of the nicest guys around. Another guy who I really adore is David over at Splash, and I haven’t seen them for a while, but I do love my Ty/Stephen connection. I need to get out more, especially if it means getting back with some of my favorite people again, but I seem to always be writing or donating my time to local events. I guess that means I have to bite the bullet and go Lance hunting or looking for Luther. I get excited just thinking about these gorgeous guys. Now I need to get acquainted with Jeremy. That is one handsome stud. Maybe he could join our din-din gathering sometimes. I’d like that. I didn’t get to watch the last LSU game at Hound Dogs with Jeanne, but I hear she was gliding around on a cloud after the Tigers defeated Texas. I watched the game at home in high definition, wide screen, and surround sound that makes my little home theater a great place to view these events. I always think of Little Corey when any LSU games are on. That is one nice little stud. I’ve always loved this one. I have to admit that after Texas beat my alma mater TCU, I was definitely cheering up a storm for LSU. Those damned longhorns were always getting on our case, and it was always a thrill to savor the taste of victory especially when we were in Austin. I recall those days with great pride. Aren’t memories wonderful? Don’t even get me started on the Aggies! I’m not really into sports that much now, but at one time I just couldn’t get enough of football, basketball, bowling, stock car racing, and rodeos. When you go from a farm setting in Louisiana’s hill country to the wide open spaces of Texas to search out your educational future, you discover things you never thought would happen to you. Even fraternities would never have entered my mind as an interest back then, but as I look back now, it seems just the right thing to do. It is also nice to have heroes as you go through life. Some of these heroes bring sports into a personal connection. I can recall when I boarded my horse in the same stable as Walt Garrison, one of the Dallas Cowboys, or when going to events with one of the best of his breed, the one and only Staubach. Now, it is Brees and the Saints all the way. It is the connection that counts and brings out more interest, especially that personal approach. Even celebrity connections mean so much more now. As with many other individuals, it is nice to look back and say that you knew them when. I couldn’t get enough of Betty Buckley’s performances while in college, and look at where fame carried her. You know that hearing her sing Memory from Cats will bring back thrills from that theater on the TCU campus. The same is true of Frederick Forrest, Harvey Hysel, or Van Williams, the Green Hornet himself or that Surfside Six stud, not names that everyone might recall, but how about Bob Schieffer? I knew him well before he became one of the top news reporters of all time. The journalism school at TCU is now named in his honor. I just knew him as another frat buddy. And yes, those stock car guys weren’t famous like Jeff Gordon or Dale Ernhardt Jr., but I can still get a thrill thinking about Billy McKelvy winning so many of those races. It is always nice to be able to look back at the time when Marti’s Restaurant was an important place for celebrities. I suppose I miss this restaurant more than any other from my past dining experiences. The food was outstanding, the setting was great, and the host was one of the best. One of the last times I recall being there was the time I waited to meet Tennessee Williams, one of my favorite writers of all time. It was also here that our Louisiana Writers Guild had such a fabulous dining experience in Marti’s private quarters. Memories are precious. They can bring back the good times and even the sad times, but they are unique and belong to you because you lived them. Hold on to yours, and never let them go.
36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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The crowd is starting to get bigger as the new changes come
Sound Factory’s new management team, Chris & Macky
The ladies on the dance floor
paparazzi
Always a friendly face to greet you at the door
Jeremy looks slightly confused...well what’s new? Just please don’t leave him! Snap Shot Sound Factory’s very first male impersonator
Good times, good times...
Havin’ fun & hangin’ out with friends
Big Cheesy Beyoncea Troy always having to be in the pics
Celebrating Pride @ Sound Factory
Lean in for your photo opp
Looking a little rough, but they sure had a great time
These two join us from Texas just to party with us
Happy customers for the New Management Specials for the LSU game
Stop, pose for the Paparazzi
The men on the prowl...lol
LAAAAA...Miss Kevin ‘n Miss Scott
38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
On The Prowl ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Chris Perkins
acadiana
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Seth pulls a winning ticket from Rick at 700 Club’s 1st Cajun Cookout
Rick sells raffle tickets for 700 Club’s 1st Cajun Cookout benefiting Covenant House
Richard joins Sue who’s showing off her new teeth at Cutter’s June Birthday Bash
Lola & Carlene cocktailin’s at Cutter’s June Birthday Bash
Tim, Cerulleal & Michael in The Country Club kitchen
New bartender Joe slings cocktails at Rawhide Monday-Thursday 9p-5a
Paul & Herman win the Ketel One raffle at the Covenant House benefit at 700 Club
Jimmy joins the June Birthday Bash at Cutter’s
Shannon & Ambush’s Brian Sands pop in for the 1st Cajun Cookout at 700 Club
Max, Bill & GAA Top 5 DJ of the Year Finalist Myke pop in for BYOM Night at Rawhide
Mark & Ron celebrate at 700 Club’s 1st Cajun Cookout
snap paparazzi
JT & William win a $25 Bar Tab from Lafitte’s for the Covenant House benefit at 700 Club
Malissa & GAA Top 5 Bartender of the Year Finalist Paul sling cocktails for 700 Club’s 1st Cajun Cookout
Manager Joe behind the bar at GAA Top 5 Leather Bar of the Year Finalist Rawhide Rob works the door for 700 Club’s 1st Cajun Cookout benefiting Covenant House
Drew slings cocktails at the beautiful Country Club
Cutter’s Mac, Chris & Blake celebrate at the June Birthday Bash hosted by Cutter’s
Maurice joins Olympus Bar’s Dann & Eric, along with Wes in the hot tub at The Country Club
Mike & Rus pop in for Rawhide’s Wednesday BYOM Night
40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
Nightlife in The Crescent City ~ Photos by Ambush, Gary Glitter
Mike & Matt welcome you to GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist 700 Club
in the spotlight by Gary Glitter E-mail: gglitter04@yahoo.com
Daddy, Pride & Neon Where’s your Daddy ??
I
n the life long search for a daddy, the Phoenix bar hosted the Lords of Leather beer bust and a Where’s Your Daddy Contest on Saturday, June 13th. The beer bust started at 9pm and the contest was at 10:30pm and both were full to the rafters. As in past contests, lately, there were four contestants for the 2nd Annual Where’s Your Daddy Contest, and they were all ready, willing and able to assume the Daddy role. The line-up of contestants was: #1 Toby, #2 Patrick, #3 Lance, and #4 Frank. Lords' president and Lord King XXVI Gary Vandeventer assumed the roll of Emcee for the evenings events, and started out by bringing the contestants to the stage one at a time for the Bar Wear portion and telling a little about each of their personal histories. After each had made an appearance, they were all brought back together,
and their first challenge was to each get a tray of jello shots and go out into the audience and see how many shots they could sell during a 15 minute period, for which the winner would get an extra 10 points on their score sheet. For the next portion of the contest, it was Bare Wear, which consisted of each getting a white bath towel and going back and removing all their clothes and coming out in just the towel, their next challenge was to draw a color sheet of paper from Gary and be assigned a helper to help them go out into the audience and sell 50/ 50 raffle tickets, again for a 15 minute time period, and the tickets could be sold one for $1, or six for $5, or boots to balls for $???, and since they had on towels only, guess who’s boots/balls? Well, you’ve never seen so many tickets go so fast in your life. And again, who ever sold the most got an extra 10 points on their score sheet. While all the money was being tallied and they were figuring out who was the
the pink pastor ...from 36 in as much anonymity as they could obtain – avoiding arrest (mostly), often getting married, and generally keeping their heads down and trying to survive. This is all very understandable, but nothing had changed despite decades, indeed centuries of people keeping their heads down and avoiding notice. What set the whole movement for recognition and rights on its way was an act of authentic, truthful defiance. Just like refusing to stand up on a segregated bus, refusing to disperse and go quietly away. Refusing to accept injustice, and refusing to accommodate it anymore. We in the LGBT community are great enablers. We make endless excuses for people’s bad behavior – for prejudice and ignorance, for intolerance and cruelty; perhaps it allows us to carry on as normal and not to challenge it. We sit in church pews where preachers condemn us, or bishops refuse to marry us and bless our families – we pour money into institutions that serve us, when they serve us, only by holding their noses. We have been quick to assume that situations are unchangeable, and too frequently we put up and shut up when we should shout loud enough to wake the dead. Apathy and the closet don’t just delay progress, they kill people – their legacy is marked in ruined lives, deceit and despair. They leave women as tools to be used to hide behind; they reduce us to victims instead of the controllers of our lives and destinies. They have added to the holocaust that is HIV/AIDS. They condemn YET ANOTHER generation of LGBT kids to the same mess we went through. Just like Jesus telling the respectable folk that ‘The Harlots and the publicans are entering the Kingdom of Heaven before you’ it is those who cannot ‘pass’, those for whom dishonesty is not an option for whatever reason that burst
Daddy, all the contestants came back and got to tell their fantasies about Who, What, When and Where they wanted their wildest fantasies to come true, or if they had already achieved that goal. The judges for the evening were : Steven - Bears Club, Mike - Bywater Bar.B.Que, and Barry - Amon Ra. And also at this time they announced the winner of the 50/50 raffle ( $170) was Ken G., who very graciously donated his win back to the Lords of Leather. Finally, came the moment the contestants had been waiting for: 1st Runner-up - Patrick (Ribbon), and Winner - Toby (Medal, $100). Congratulations to all the contestants and the winners, a good job was done by all. And congratulations to the Lords of Leather for making this contest well worth coming to see and participate in. (Very ingenious of you to have the little extras to make the contestants work for that title, and to also make some money for the krewe. My compliments to you !!! Also, kudo’s to the Phoenix for the work by Red, Brian B., and Randy, with music and sound by Karbin. Excellent job!
Guerilla Pride
O
n Saturday, June 26th, I went down the street on Frenchmen to see what was happening in the 500 block for what was to be our Pride function for this year. The organizations that had arranged this were in full force, but at the time that I was there, there weren’t too many people out and about, maybe due to the extreme heat that has cursed us this past week. However, it didn’t seem to dampen anyones spirits and for the people that were in attendance they had the attention of any and all of the
vendors. Upon speaking with most of the organizers they are anxious to setup a committee to start planning for next year and try and put this back in Washington Square Park. Anyone that is interested in joining them can go to their meetings on the third Wednesday of every month at the LGBT Community Center, or go to www.tccgno.org. This is the Community Coalition of Greater New Orleans Organizations and Businesses. Maybe it would be worth some of your time to help these people to get something going for next year and not just sit and gripe that you didn’t have anything this year. DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT !!!
17th Neon Party
O
z’s big 17th anniversary bash was held on Saturday, June 27th, and consisted of turning the whole place into a big glowing neon dance palace. Of course the bewitching hour was at 10pm in order to not have “any” light be able to permeate into the blackness of the place. Even the bartenders were all regaled in various shades of neon outfits and body paint. (And how cute was Blake in his orange Day-Glo tulle hair bow and sash. How gay!) They even had the outside sidewalk and into the club done with Day-Glo glitter and confetti to help get you into the mood for the evening. The dancers were all ready for the night with glowing outfits and were only too ready to get those dollars!!! Congrat’s to Tim Pflueger on celebrating his 15th year at Oz on their 17th anniversary. And a special “congratulations” to Tommy Elias on another successful year.
c'est bon by The Susan Lucci's E-mail: marsha@ripandmarsha.com the gates of living death and show us our true humanity and potential – show us the Kingdom of Heaven. We need to be shown that keeping your head down and surviving is not living, that being tolerated is not good enough, and that the only antidote to more ignorance and more untruth is truth; though we must offer that truth with love, it cannot be downplayed. We must never be ashamed of it. We must not be frightened of its consequences. If those we sit next to in church think well of us because they have no idea who we really are then we are playing a cruel trick on ourselves. If our boss pats us on the back and gives us a raise because he thinks we are someone else then all our accomplishments are in someone else’s name. If our parent’s love us, but we suspect that they would not love us if they knew our God given identity then lets not beat about the bush – they never properly loved us at all. Self deception is no substitute for self respect. We can have self respect, but we need to claim it as if we believed it, and sometimes that means shaking things up, and causing a bit of a riot – rather like the overturning of the money changers tables in the temple. Just because we live in Louisiana does not mean that bigots, homophobes and racists should be allowed a free ride
Farewell to Buffy
O
n the morning of July 2nd, we got up and checked on our oldest baby, Buffy, who has been sick on and off for the past month with old age issues. Her breathing was shallow, but she was still with us. After getting the coffee and a load of laundry on we went to the cage to take out the babies as we do every day of the year. In that short time our Buffy had passed away. We had gotten her back in 2002 and she would have been seven years old this month, which is close to the life expectancy of ferrets. Both Queenie, who will be four years old in November, and our new baby Sassy,
– we have the truth, they desperately need it, and unless we shout it aloud and with dignity, they will never hear it. Rev. Clinton Crawshaw is the fulltime pastor of The Big Easy Metropolitan Community Church. They meet every Sunday at 5pm, for full details of Christian Education classes, social functions and events, and also to check out online sermons, go to www.bigeasymcc.com. Tel: 504.214.4340 to speak to the pastor or email at revcrawshaw@yahoo.com.
who is almost four and a half months old, knew something was wrong, because they always go under the comforter in our bed to nudge Buffy before going down to play, but Buffy was not there, even though they looked and looked. It's amazing how smart pets can be. When they're taken out of their armoire in the morning, they always start out in our bed before going down to play with their toys, bags and tubes. We buried Buffy out back on our patio where she joins 18 of our other ferrets and will now do her magic to make our tropicals even more lush and green. Thank goodness we have Queenie and Sassy to comfort us. There will always be only one Buffy, and we'll sure miss her and her sweet personality.
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ambush
paparazzi
Todd joins Eva Las Vegas for her 70th at Starlight
GAA Top 5 Bitch of the Year Finalist Princesse Stephaney & Starlight’s Javier Lords of Leather Where’s Your Daddy contestant Frank
Calendar Boy MC & GAA Top 5 Cheridon Comedy Award Finalist Barry Bareass & Oz’s Glenn Fonte celebrate at The Corner Pocket’s 17th anniversary
Long time bartender Bruce & new bartender Nate slingin’ cocktails for The Corner Pocket’s 17th
Society Page’s Orlando Aloe congratulates Corner Pocket’s Michael Elias on the Pocket’s 17th anniversary
New bartender Josh slingin’ cocktails at GAA Top 5 Neighborhood Bar of the Year Finalist, Cafe Lafitte in Exile
Paula Lane selling raffle tickets for Eva’s 70th b-day benefit Lords of Leather Where’s Your Daddy contestant Lance with MC & Lord King Gary (GAA Top 5 Leather Person of the Year Finalist)
Where’s Your Daddy contestant Toby presented by MC & Lord King Gary
Michael Elias joins the Pocket’s New Meat Night MC Lisa Beaumann for the bars 17th anniversary
Hazel guest stars in Eva’s 70th b-day show
Philip Alviar shows off his wares at GAA Top 5 GLBT Business of the Year Finalist, Alternatives
Both Spencer & Blake always slingin’ & dishin’ at Good Friends Bar Mikey representing Rip & Marsha in the Sugar Daddy Contest as part of the Pocket’s 17th anniversary blowout
Where’s Your Daddy winner Toby (GAA Top 5 Leather Person, Man of the Year & Buzzy Fanning AIDS Award Finalists) & boy Kevin
Quartermaster’s Miseal catered The Corner Pocket’s 17th anniversary blowout for bar baron Michael Elias
Ambush columnist Gary Glitter celebratin’ the Pocket’s 17th anniversary with MC Barry Bareass
Tommy T joins Brant & Ronnie at Good Friends Bar before his Sunday gig upstairs in Queen’s Head Pub
42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
Contests, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Personalities ~ Photos by Ambush, Gary Glitter
Lords of Leather Ball Lieutenant Ben Bourgeois with Where’s Your Daddy Winner Toby & 1st runner-up Patrick hosted at GAA Top 5 Leather Bar of the Year Finalist, the Phoenix
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44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • July 7-20, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM