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2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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the "official" dish by Rip & Marsha Naquin-Delain RipandMarsha.COM E-mail: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
Largest Press Party Ever Announces The Choices for Southern Decadence 38
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t was the largest attended Press Party in the history of Southern Decadence bringing the greater New Orleans GLBT community together kicking off Official Southern Decadence XXXVIII, Labor Day Weekend, September 2-7. Not only did the French Quarter, Marigny and Bywater attend, but the extravaganza brought in Uptown New Orleans, the West Bank, Metairie, Kenner, La Place and Slidell. Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma should be congratulated for accomplishing this great feat. This year's Press Party was hosted at Show Bar of the Year JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields. Both bar barons John Vignone and Paul Chiriaco, along with their staff staged an incredible backdrop for the evening's festivities complete with street lamps, champagne fountains, red roses, black and red balloons with silver strings, matching table cloths and silver doilies. The popular Marigny club also served some 72 bottles of complimentary champagne, while Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli catered the affair. The excitement was in the air as SDGMs Tittie Toulouse and Paloma came to the stage to set plans in motion for the giant 38th Southern Decadence celebration expected to bring is some 100,000 revelers pumping millions of dollars into the local economy. First the duo announced and brought the only Official Sponsors of Southern Decadence to the stage including Official Guide, Ambush Mag; Official Beer, Bud Light; Official Photographer, Larry Graham: GrahamStudioOne.COM; Official SDGM Luncheon Site, Pat O’Brien’s; Official Deli/Caterer, Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli; Official Clothier and Jeweler, Queen Fashions; Official Vodka and Rum, Republic Beverage Company: Absolut Vodka & Malibu Rum; Official Printer, Sir Speedy; and Official Website, SouthernDecadence.COM. The grand marshals announced the Southern Decadence theme: Hurricane: This Year, They BLOW Back!, colors: black, silver and red, song: Stormy Weather by Viola Wills with remix by DJ Jayskee, and parade lieutenant: Toby Lefort. Then the moment the crowd had been waiting for, the unveiling of the Official Southern Decadence Poster by renowned photographer Larry Graham, and the crowd went wild. The poster is absolutely hysterical with Tittie Toulouse keeping the base of a New Orleans lamp post on the ground, while Paloma is blowing in the wind hanging on for dear life at the top of the lamp post. There's a flutter of paper in the air along with Graham's dog, Peanuts. At the bottom of the poster is a photo of the late Southern Decadence Grand Marshal XXXII Donald "Donnie Jay" James. The 2009 Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture is dedicated to both Donnie Jay, and the late Steve Mettner whose Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli has sponsored Decadence for many years with large cash donations to the grand marshals. For more on the weekend, visit AmbushMag.COM and SouthernDecadence.COM.
No Passes Needed for Oldest Traditional Events at Southern Decadence, It's All Free
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any who have made inquiries into the upcoming 38th annual Official Southern Decadence Celebration of Gay Life, Music & Culture did not realize that many of the events and parties are free and open to the public with no passes required. The oldest traditional, free events include the annual Southern Decadence Drag Show kicking off Southern Decadence weekend featuring SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma which is set for Friday, September 4 at the Home of Southern Decadence, Tubby's Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street, beginning at 9pm. Also on Friday is the annual Leather Block Party with Beer Bust brought to you by the Lords of Leather and the Phoenix, 941 Elysian Fields, beginning at 10pm. Saturday, September 5, Napoleon's Itch brings the 5th annual Bourbon Street Extravaganza, an outdoor concert on the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets featuring live performances by Deborah Cox and other stars on the circuit. Get to the balcony at Dance Club of the Year Oz for one of the best views. The big day is Sunday, September 6 when SDGMs Tittie and Paloma lead the 35th annual Southern Decadence Parade winding its way through the French Quarter beginning at 2pm sharp at 1239 Royal Street outside the Lantern. Around 4ish pm the grand marshals head to Ambush Headquarters, 828 Bourbon Street, to lead the 16th
Big Pre-Southern Decadence, Labor Day Wknd. Edition due out Tuesday, Aug. 18
inside
DEADLINE: Tuesday, Aug. 11
HIV411.org southern decadence line-up sappho psalm in the spotlight out & about in mobile mobile paparazzi celebrazzi sd press party paparazzi snap paparazzi/new orleans ambush paparazzi/metairie, nola under the gaydar 38th official southern decadence
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the pink pastor halloween/new orleans classifieds alexandria, olympus style alexandria paparazzi red stick paparazzi/baton rouge hot tails of red stick/baton rouge trodding the boards/new orleans allons acadiana/lafayette acadiana paparazzi/lafayette snap paparazzi/new orleans ambush paparazzi/new orleans
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Gulf South Entertainment/Travel Guide Since 1982 828-A Bourbon St. • New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 • 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com annual Southern Decadence Bead Toss from the world famous Ambush balcony. 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.
Don't Miss Glitz Southern Decadence Weekend, Sept. 3 & 4 at Harrah's Theatre
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ou won't want to miss one of the hottest tickets in town for Southern Decadence when revelers head on over to the theatre at Harrah's New Orleans Casino 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 on Thursday and Friday, September 3 and 4. Tickets start at $25, and 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.
Circuit Greats & Men of Manwatch Headline Oz Southern Decadence Wknd.
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ance Club of the Year Oz has big plans for the giant 38th annual Southern Decadence
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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4 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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9am-5pm Mon.-Fri. 9am-12noon Sat.. the "official" dish ...from 4 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!
Southern Decadence SouthernDecadence.COM
Southern Decadence 2009 Line-up
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s of press time, this is the current list of Southern Decadence events on the schedule to the 2009 celebration THURSDAY, August 27th... 8pm, SDGMs 2009 Southern Decadence ’09 Poster Signing with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, hosted by SDGM XXXI Rusty LaRoux, Big Daddy’s SATURDAY, August 29th... 2pm, Annual Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Luncheon, by invitation only 10pm, Southern Decadence: 3rd Annual Fetish Ball crowning 3rd King of Decadence, Rawhide 2010 SUNDAY, August 30th... 6pm, Sunday Sister Social honoring
SDGMs 2009 plus all former grand marshals with buffet & drink specials, The Friendly Bar TUESDAY, September 1st... 8am, giant new Official Southern
Decadence Guide Ambush Mag, hits the streets in New Orleans, the rest of the Gulf South by Wednesday, September 2
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sd line-up...from 6 WEDNESDAY, September 2nd... 10am-1am, Get Decadent Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 11pm, Show Night! Special Drag show opening Southern Decadence, Dance Club of the Year Oz 10pm, Southern Decadence Wet Jockey Shorts Contest hosted by Lisa Beaumann, judged by SDGMs 2009, plus the Boys from Around The World & the Corner Pocket Boys with $150 in cash & prizes, Corner Pocket THURSDAY, September 3rd... 10am-1am, Get Decadent Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 4pm till , The hot Men of Manwatch Kick Off Southern Decadence, Dance Club of the Year Oz 4pm until, Welcome to Bear Decadence Beer Bust, Rawhide 2010 8pm, Southern Decadence Line-up: Mr. Decadence 2009 Finals, The Marigny Theatre 9pm, Decadence with DJ Tony B, Phoenix 9pm, Elias Productions presents Glitz: The Art of Female Impersonation, starring Bianca Del Rio, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Lawanda Jackson, Blanche Debris, Christina Cayne & four very talented dancers. Tickets available at TicketMaster.COM, The Theatre at Harrah’s Casino 10pm, Southern Decadence XXXVIII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/ The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket
11pm, Kick Off Southern Decadence with USDA Prime Aged Beef Contest w/ $100 cash prize, Good Friends Bar 12midnight - Dick of Decadence Contest, all $5 cover charge proceeds goes to top 3 finishers, Balcony Bar, Cafe Lafitte in Exile 12midnight, Men of Manwatch Preview Show with the Persana Shoulders Revue. Come meet and greet all Oz Dancers for Southern Decadence. Vote for the one you like the best and he will win cash, Dance Club of the Year Oz FRIDAY, September 4th... 12noon-5pm, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12noon till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout with Hot Dancers, 700 Club 12noon till, Southern Decadence with the hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVIII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 5-11pm, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 6-8pm, Southern Decadence Dingo, The Bitches are Back with Bianca Del Rio & Blanche Debris, Dance Club of the Year Oz 9pm, Annual Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals’ Drag Show starring SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma with Past SDGMs & New Orleans finest entertainers, Official Home of Southern Decadence: Tubby’s Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal St.
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sd line-up ...from 8 9pm, Elias Productions presents Glitz: The Art of Female Impersonation, starring Bianca Del Rio, Teryl-Lynn Foxx, Lisa Beaumann, Lawanda Jackson, Blanche Debris, Christina Cayne & four very talented dancers. Tickets available at TicketMaster.COM, The Theatre at Harrah’s Casino 9pm, Decadence with DJ Tony B, Phoenix 9pm-12midnight, Southern Decadence Weekend Prince of Perversion Ball sponsored by the Radical Faeries, $10 suggested donation, open event JohnPaul’s 10pm, Leather Block Party with Beer Bust by Lords of Leather; Bud, Bud Light, Miller Lite and Coors Light from the New Orleans Bears & the LSGRA plus the return of The Jager Bus, Phoenix 10pm, Southern Decadence XXXVIII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/ The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 11pm-5am, It’s Southern Decadence with Circuit Great Guest DJ Joe Gauthreaux, Resident DJs Tim Pflueger & Jason Lanoux, Lights by Johnny Eubanks & Parker, plus the hot Men of Manwatch all weekend long, Dance Club of the Year Oz SATURDAY, September 5th... 5am till, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 10am-1am, Southern Decadence Ultimate Pool Party, The Country Club 11am-2pm, Arctophile Party Returns, Cutter's 12noon-3pm, Bear Decadence Bears and Bubbles: The Brunch Edition, Auld’s Sweet Olive 12noon-5pm, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12noon till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout with Hot Dancers, 700 Club 12noon till, Southern Decadence with the hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVIII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 5pm, Napoleon’s Itch presents the 4th Bourbon Street Extravaganza live free concert featuring Circuit Guest Stars live at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets 5-11pm, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 8pm, Southern Decadence Weekend Bear Decadence Sire Ursus of Decadence Buffet with 9pm Contest, JohnPaul’s 9pm till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout Party with Hot Dancers, 700 Club 9pm, Steamy Decadence Hot Leather, Hot Men & Hot Music with DJ Karbin, Phoenix 10pm, Southern Decadence XXXVIII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/ The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 11pm-5am, It’s Southern Decadence with Circuit Great Guest DJ Phil B., Resident DJs Tim Pflueger & Jason Lanoux, Lights by Johnny Eubanks & Parker, plus the hot Men of Manwatch all weekend long, Dance Club of the Year Oz 11pm, The Zoo Revue’s Southern Decadence Show starring SDGM XXXI Rusty LaRoux & Cast, Big Daddy’s 12midnight, Southern Decadence Weekend The Golden Age Revue with
Show Director Marcy Marcell, JohnPaul’s SUNDAY, September 6th... 5am till, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 8pm, Southern Decadence Weekend Complimentary Continental Breakfast, JohnPaul’s 9am, Bear Decadence Bear Breakfast featuring Best Bear Beard, Butt, Belly & Chest Contest, Phoenix 10am-1am, Southern Decadence Ultimate Pool Party, The Country Club 12noon-5pm, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12noon till, Southern Decadence Weekend Blowout with Hot Dancers, 700 Club 12noon till, Southern Decadence with the hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 1pm, Southern Decadence Grand Marshals 2009 Brunch & Make-up Party, Friendly Bar 2pm sharp, 35th Annual Official Southern Decadence Parade led by SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma celebrating Southern Decadence 38, begins at Official Home of Southern Decadence: Tubby’s Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal St. 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVIII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 4pm, 16th Annual Official Southern Decadence Bead Toss led by SDGMs XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma, sponsored by the Susan Lucci’s: Rip & Marsha, Ambush Mag & SouthernDecadence.COM, AMBUSH Headquarters Balcony, 828 Bourbon St. 5pm, Annual Miss High Hair Contest, winner takes home the coveted Bronze Barbie, Good Friends Bar 5pm, Southern Decadence Weekend Surprise Drag Show, JohnPaul’s 5-11pm, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 6-9pm, Hot Ash Cigar Party at the Eagle, Phoenix 8pm, Southern Decadence Weekend Bear Decadence Bear Dance Party, JohnPaul’s 8:30pm, Southern Decadence Live Entertainment, Cutter’s 9pm, Decadence with DJ Karbin, Phoenix 11pm-5am, It’s Southern Decadence with Circuit Great Guest DJ David Knapp, Resident DJs Tim Pflueger & Jason Lanoux, Lights by Johnny Eubanks & Parker, plus the hot Men of Manwatch all weekend long, Dance Club of the Year Oz LABOR DAY MONDAY, September 7th... 5am till, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 10am-1am, Official Recovery Day Outdoors: New Orleans Only Pool & Hot Tub Party, The Country Club 12noon-6pm, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 12noon till, Southern Decadence with the hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz 2pm, 12th Annual Southern Decadence Survivors Outer Loop Bar Crawl led by Cruise Director - Ted Mahaffy, honoring SDGMs 2009, beginning with snacks at Corner Pocket 3pm until, Southern Decadence XXXVIII: Where The Boys Are, Hot Male Dancers w/The Boys from Around The
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sappho psalm by Toni J.P. Pizanie E-mail: psalmwrite@att.net
Five Silly Things
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overheard recently. People say that the heat makes us stupid or silly. I have to agree, and these examples are why. They are also true. 1) A friend of mine has a Mercedes Benz. His partner has a VW. So, I said, you appreciate the fine art of German engineering. Yes, he answered, even our sex
toys are made in Germany. 2) Another friend was telling me that her work group goes to Palace Café for lunch because the price is whatever the temperature is; like 96 degrees would be $9.60. So one girl said of her nelly coworker, Ronnie is waiting for 69 degrees. [continued on 14]
sd line-up ...from 10 World appearing nightly, Corner Pocket 4-6pm, Special Early Southern Decadence Dingo, The Bitches are Back with Bianca Del Rio & Blanche Debris, Dance Club of the Year Oz 6pm-12midnight, It’s Southern Decadence with DJ, Dance Club of the Year Oz 9pm, The After Party with the sounds of DJ Tony B, Phoenix 10pm, Decadence Closing Dance Party DJs plus hot Men of Manwatch, Dance Club of the Year Oz
Café Lafitte'sCelebrates The Summer Of Love
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ugust 15 marks the 40th anniversary of the Woodstock festival. And to commemorate
this event, Café Lafitte In Exile will be taking you back to the Summer Of Love era with special music and video, as well as an original production, aptly called The Summer Of Love. On the 15th at 6pm, Rawhide 2010 will hold a mock protest march, which coincides with Wood Enterprises' Cruisin’ In The Woodstck special. (All well drinks are $1.00 from 6-6:30pm.) To add to the fun, at 5pm, you can come and decorate your own poster. Wood Enterprises will supply everything you need. The parade will march until it reaches Café Lafitte. “The Summer Of Love is quite different from anything Café Lafitte has hosted before,” comments DJ Myke. “We’re highlighting some of the most popular plays of that era as well as focus on three of the
major singers we lost from that time.” With costumes designed by DJ Johnnie Love, the crew will spotlight selections from Jesus Christ Superstar, Tommy, Godspell, and Hair, as well as salute, in their own special way, the works of Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Mama Cass Elliot. The production takes place Saturday, August 15 at 8pm sharp. It is recommend to get your seats early for this one. For a complete list of events for the entire weekend, August 14-16, see the Lafitte's ad on the back cover, page 44.
Hospital Diva Benefit for Lauren Brown Aug. 16
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ichael Cochran, aka Lauren Brown, suffered a heart attack on July 11 and underwent successful surgery. He is home and doing well. However, without health insurance, and due to loss of work, a benefit has been organized by Randall and Bev Brown. "What A Girl Won't Do For Attention: Hospital Diva Benefit" is set for Sunday, August 16, 3-6pm at JohnPaul's, 940 Elysian Fields. Door donation is $10. Come help mend a girlz broken heart. There will be food, 50/50 raffle, silent auction and the Heart Pounding Revue.
Miss Gay Louisiana America Heads to Alexandria's Olympus Bar Aug.19-21
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he 20th annual Miss Gay Louisiana America 2009 pageant heads to Alexandria for the first
time in many years. Hosted at Louisiana's newest club, Olympus Bar, 4003 S. MacArthur Drive, in Alexandria, the pageant is set for Thursday and Friday, August 20 and 21 at 9pm. The theme this year is Mysteria, and the pageant will be hosted by producer House of DeLorean's Dominique DeLorean, Miss Gay Louisiana America 2005. Pageant goers can look for Miss Gay America 2009 Victoria DePaula, Miss Gay America 2004 Rachael Erikks, Miss Gay Louisiana America 2008 Anastacia Davenport, and a host of other celebrities. With over $2,500 in cash and prizes at stake, competition is sure to be stiff among prelim winners and first alternates. Additionally on Wednesday, August 19 at 10pm, locals and visitors alike can look forward to the Miss Gay Louisiana America Revue Show, also at Olympus Bar. The competition schedule includes: Thursday, August 20 - 9am, Registration / Briefing from the Promoters, Opening Production Rehearsal; 11am, Promoters Meeting with the Formers, all formers must attend; 12 noon, Lunch and Judges Meeting; 6pm, Roll Call - All Contestants; 7pm, Solo Talent Prejudging; 9pm, Pageant Begins; and Friday, August 21 - 10am, Opening Production Rehearsal (Bring Male Interview Clothes); 12noon, Male Interview; 8pm, Roll Call - All Contestants; 9pm, Pageant Begins. For more information on the pageant, visit MissGayLouisianaAmerica.COM. For more on Olympus Bar, visit OlympusBar.COM.
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in the spotlight by Gary Glitter E-mail: gglitter04@yahoo.com
Phoenix 26th Anniversary Fire & Ice
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n July 17th at 10pm, the Phoenix celebrated their 26th Anniversary with a theme of, Fire and Ice. The bar was magnificently decorated by Eric, and was totally in keeping with the theme. The festivities for the evening was a “traditional drag show” which consisted of Kabrina Watson and Zena (Miss Upper Schegmann Heights). Kabrina acted as MC for the evening and each did a number to celebrate the occasion. Congrats to the Phoenix, and especially to manager Clint, bartenders Chris and Brian B., Eric at the door, and to DJ Tony on celebrating his 11th year at the Phoenix.
X-mas in July x 2
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ot to be out done, on July 25th, two bars decided to celebrate Christmas in July on the same night. Tubby’s Golden Lantern, decided to celebrate with food, presents and Christmas cheer !!! That little elf, Lance provided all the merriment behind the bar in a sexy elf workers outfit, that only he could get away with. Unfortunately, when I was there sappho psalm ...from 12
3) My friend Jody is a true top he told me. Why, I asked? I had to buy a new bike seat because the one that came with the new bike was poking me in the butt. 4) I had to stop watching movies, Karen told me. I love movies, I said. I review them when I’m able and watch them on TV every day. Why don’t you like them, I asked? Oh, it isn’t the movies, it’s
I didn’t get to see any sexy Santa, but I was there early in the evening. I’m sure things heated up as the night wore on and heaven knows who got the naughtiest present of all ??? I can only imagine. Over at the Starlight by the Park, Javier was in full Ms. Santa regalia, and everyone was in the merriest of moods. This is Javier’s kick-off to the Toys for Tots Christmas season that he has done for years. As he has done for years, at every show that he does he will put all the tips in a jar and it all will go to presents for the Toys for Tots Program, and how nice it would be if all of you could just drop a little something
in the pot. Of course all the Party Girls were there and ready to do a show for the folks. They had brought out their holiday outfits and were ready to paint the town “red”. And I know that they did a great job to help this cause. God bless you !!!!
S.D. Grand Marshals Show
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very year at the Home of Southern Decadence, the Golden Lantern, they have the Official Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Drag Show which always is the Friday, which this year happens to be on September 4th, before the Southern Decadence Parade on Sunday Septemer 5th. This years show will be Emcee’d by Past Grand Marshal Regina Adams, and myself. We are looking to see how many of the past Grand Marshals will be coming to perform for this show, which will start at 9pm sharp. If any of the past Grand Marshals are planning to perform we would like for you to just e-mail us a line to
the smoking. I stopped smoking and every time I see a cigarette in a movie, I want one. 5) The silliest thing I heard most recently was me telling Randy that I enjoy collecting the silly things people tell me. Why, he asked, are you going to do anything with them? I never really thought about it but I guess not. Now that’s silly, he laughed. So this is for Randy.
Southern Decadence
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joyfully send congratulations and love to Southern Decadence Grand Marshals Tittie Toulouse and Paloma. Paloma and I have been friends from the days when she first started performing in New Orleans and I was working in the Ambush office. Paloma is my idea of what a drag queen should look like – beautiful, well put together and nice in or out of drag. Tittie I met through Rip and Marsha’s parties. I loved her fun attitude and jokes from the moment I met her. Today we are Facebook friends. I am grateful for her/his concern for my health and all the encouragement that has been sent to me through Facebook. Ladies, my next surgery is the 1st of August so hopefully by my birthday (Southern Decadence), I’ll be ready for that drink Tittie promised me, and we can share it at JohnPaul's. For those of you who have not seen me out and about the last few years, please be advised that I am still interested in all the activities in our community, and I still have some great friends out there – this year’s SD will be lead by two of them. Have a great and safe weekend.
confirm. Please send to me at gglitter04@yahoo.com, and put “Southern Decadence Show” in the subject line. And if you know what song you are doing please let us know. We are trying to arrange just exactly how many we can count on for this show. Looking forward to seeing you all there. Thanks for your cooperation. Of course, the show will feature Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse and Paloma who will welcome revelers to Southern Decadence and receive the Official Proclamation for the weekend from Larry Bagneris, representing the Mayor's Office.
Southern Decadence Continued
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t seems that this year's Southern Decadence is stacking up to be one of the best yet. Everyone [continued on 16]
Dining Out
W
e made it to Tomatoes – that’s Tomatillo’s for those of you who have not eaten there with me. Our group was small but fun. Lynn brought Toy along. I was really happy to see Toy after years of absence – it had been since before Katrina. She is the perfect compact size Lesbian. Jack from Will & Grace would call her a pocket Gay. If I were 25 years younger, I’d be very interested. Rebecca, late as usual, was good company too. The four of us enjoyed our meal and the company of the 20something NO/AIDS workers at the table behind us. I learned about new information from the Center, and caught up on the Lesbian scene from Becca and Toy. Other acquaintances showed up for dinner and it was a treat for me to see them all. I understand that Dining Out for Life was very successful again this year. I am happy to have been a part of it.
Next Issue
I
’m going back into the hospital on July 28th for several days of medical therapy before surgery on August 1st. I was in Ochsner from June 3rd until June 29th. I even died once. That’s right, I stopped breathing and turned blue and was rushed to ICU in a coma. This is getting pretty annoying for me; it will be seven times in eight months that I will see the inside of Ochsner. I’m even making friends with some of the nurses; now that is too much time on the inside. This is the reason that I’ve missed writing in so many issues lately. I apologize to the people that read my column and thank them for their e-mails. I’m going to try to have something ready for Issue #17 but I may still be held hostage in a hospital bed. I deeply appreciate Rip and Marsha keeping my spot in Ambush available for me. I used to love going to events and parties with them, and writing about everything. I loved knowing the bar owners and their bartenders, and lately there have been a few changes. The next time Rip and Marsha do a Metairie run, I’m going to ask them to take me along. I cannot be kept on bed rest until the end of the year – can I? Fall is my favorite season. I am hoping that by then I’ll be out and about and enjoying life again. It would be nice to have something about the community to write about. Did you know that while I was stuck in Ochsner, a woman ran head-on into Ray Bates while he was driving my car? Yes, the car was totaled. Thankfully Ray was not hurt. He was fine until he went to clean out the car and saw how really bad it was damaged. Then he got upset when he realized that he could have died or worse. When it rain; it pours. But even a storm has to stop sometime. Today we have a fancy new Aura with leather inside and lots of buttons to play with. It can drive either as an automatic or manual – really. So it looks like the sun is coming out, and the second half of this year could be great again. I’ll see you here soon.
14 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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out & about in mobile
I
t began more than a decade ago with the first Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contest. A few years later, the leather community was folded into the event. And last year, the Southern Renegades added the first Mobile leather contest to the weekend. The annual Mobile Bear and Leather Weekend at B-Bob’s has always drawn a house full of men from all over the region. But this year, be prepared for something bigger and better. Get ready for... Bleather!
Mobile BLeather Weekend 2009!
O
K, sure, it might sound a little odd at first, but you’ve probably figured out “BLeather” is a playful combination of the words “bear” and “leather”. It’s a marketing ploy, to be sure, but it represents the first time the gay community in Mobile has truly come together to make this a regional event. Here’s how it worksThe local bars will each sponsor an event or party that weekend. Each event will be hosted by a bear or leather club. At most events, in addition to the regular bar fare, each social club will offer its own special “on the house” cocktail. Saturday will feature a complimentary cook out, as well as a complimentary light “brunch” and farewell party on Sunday. It’s fashioned after the long running “L.U.E.Y.” (Let Us Entertain You) Weekend in Houston. Of course, the highlight of the weekend will be the Mr. Southern Renegade Leather Contest on Friday, August 14, and the Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contest on Saturday, the in the spotlight ...from 14
seems to be planning something from the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann, to Royal and Barracks, and up to Elysian Fields and Rampart. There should be enough of everything to satisfy everyone’s tastes. From strippers, to porn stars, to leather boys, to go-go boys, drag shows, entertainment on stages in the streets (at two locations), not to mention the thousands of revelers in the streets. This could be what New Orleans needs to get that boost they need, and leave it to the gay community to do just that. There will be several new things happening that hopefully will add to the “tradi-
Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie Toulouse & Paloma (Photo: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM)
15. Both contests are looking for contestants, so contact The Renegades at sorenegades@comcast.net if you’d like to compete in the Leather contest and gcbla@comcast.net for Bear contestants. Remember, the winner of Mr. Southern Renegade will be sent to New Orleans in October to compete for Mr. Louisiana Leather and the chance to represent that state at the International Mr. Leather Contest next year. How do you take part in BLeather Weekend 2009? Just show up! Watch for additional details to be posted at www.MobileBleatherWeekend.COM and at participating bars websites. The new Hampton Inn and Suites Downtown is our host hotel. Call them directly for the Bleather weekend rates, 251.436.8787, and use the code BBO for the discounted rate. Preliminary Event List: Friday, August 14: 6-9pm @ Gabriel’s, Meet the Mr. Southern Renegade/Mobile Contestants at the Bleather Welcome Cocktail Party, Host Clubs: Southern Renegades & New Orleans Lords of Leather; 10pm @ B-Bob’s, Mr. Southern Renegade/ Mobile Contest; After Hours @ Midtown Pub with DJ Rebb; Saturday, August 15: 1-5pm @ Midtown Pub, Meet the Mr. Gulf Coast Bear contestants at the Grill Out at Midtown Pub on Florida St., There will also be a LIVE Auction to produce funds for next years Bleather events, Host Club: The Gulf Coast Bears; 10pm @ B-Bob’s, Mr. Gulf Coast Bear Contest; After Hours “PTD” Party Til Dawn @ Gabriel’s Outback Patio; Sunday, August 16: Noon-4 pm @ Vision’s on Dauphin Street, Light Brunch and Patio Beer Bust. tions” of what has become Southern Decadence. Keep tuned for more info on what will be happening during this festive time here. I can promise that no one will go away bored, or without some pretty fantastic shots on their cameras and cell phones. Remember, good weather means skimpy, skimpy, skimpy. Oooh ya!!!
mobile
paparazzi
B-Bob’s brings out the beautiful people: Jeremy, Jasyn & James Genre’ joins the show @ B-Bob’s
Rob and Carl LOVE B-Bob’s Sunday Tea Dances! Papa Cherry Guys & Girls Party @ B-Bob’s
Birthday Boy Lee G. & his buddies celebrating with Miss Cie @ B-Bob’s
Scott & Mark party til dawn @ Gabriel’s
A New Crown in Town
J
ust saw at Oz, that one of their own, Mercedes Ellis L’Oreal, has been crowned the new Miss Gay New Orleans Universe. She will be competing very soon for the Miss Gay Louisiana Universe title. We wish her good luck and congratulations on her new title, MGNOU 2009-2010. Hope you all are getting your outfits ready for the Southern Decadence Parade. The weather should be nice and it is always a festive occasion. Grand Marshals Paloma and Tittie Toulouse will be leading the parade and taking to the streets to surprise and astonish the thousands of sightseers that will gather here for the occasion. Get your outfits early as they will probably be bombarded for Black, Silver, and Red, the official colors, but, those of you that live here know that you can pretty much wear any combination and not have to worry. Have to go, my popsicle is melting and I’m getting sticky !!?!!
Jack & Barbara hanging out @ B-Bob’s
Former Miss Gay Mobile Felicity Lane now from Tampa @ B-Bob’s
J. Logan & David cocktailin’ @ B-Bob’s
The Bitch of the Bay Miss Venus Shante’ Da Vis
16 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
Hanging Out ~ Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John, Leon Weekley
Annual Mobile Bear & Leather Event to Become BLeather Weekend!
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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)
S
outhern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Paloma and Tittie Toulouse give a sneak preview of the 2009 Official Southern Decadence Poster to sponsors at the private VIP Reception hosted by Tittie Toulouse and Electra City at their Bourbon Street home before the Official Southern Decadence Press Party. The poster by renowned photographer Larry Graham showcases this year’s theme, Hurricane: This Year, They BLOW Back! Here guests were served cocktails and beer, and then a private shuttle whisked them off to the Press Party at JohnPaul's in New Orleans.
T
he only Official Sponsors of Southern Decadence XVIII were announced by reigning Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Paloma and Tittie Toulouse at the Official Southern Decadence Press Party. Hosted at JohnPaul’s, this press party had the largest attendance of any in the history of the celebration. The official colors are black, silver and red while the official song is Stormy Weather by Viola Wills with remix by DJ Jayskee. (Photo: Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli’s TJ & Misael Rubio, GrahamStudioOne’s Larry Graham, SDGMs XXXV Paloma & Tittie Toulouse, Queen Fashions’ Electra City (SDGM XXXIV), Ambush & SouthernDecadence.COM’s Marsha Naquin-Delain, & Bud Light’s Brad) Other sponsors not pictured include: Pat O'Brien's, Republic Beverage Company: Absolut Vodka & Malibu Rum, & Sir Speedy Printing.
18 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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snap
Daryl Dunaway, Lee Worrells, David Aranda & Stuart Nettles
paparazzi
Marcy Marcell & Boom Boom Laverne A Champagne Toast from SDGMs XXXV Paloma & Tittie Toulouse
Lafitte’s Aletha Bryant, SDGM XXXIV Regina Adams, & JohnPaul’s John Vignone & Paul Chiriaco
Oz’s Persana Shoulders, Queen Fashions' James & Amon Ra’s Mr. America Nathan Brooks
Justin & Kyle
Amon Ra’s Opal Masters & Rhonda Roget flank SDGM XXXIV Regina Adams
Alligator Red, Chris Ward, 4 Seasons’ Chuck Turner & Brad Official Southern Decadence Sponsor Quartermaster’s Misael Rubio & SDGM XXXV Paloma
Parade Lt. Toby with Official Southern Decadence Sponsor Bud Light’s Brad & Michelle
Constance & SDGM XXXIV Electra City
GLBT Business of the Year Alternatives’ Philip Alviar & Jack Jones
Krystal’s DB & Caroline join SDGM XXXV Paloma (center)
Wood Enterprises’ Ken Grandpre & SDGM XXXV Tittie Toulouse
Felina Colby Shane, SDGM XXXV Paloma & Deanna
SDGM XXXV Paloma & Satyricon’s Hoyle Byrd
Bitch of the Year Princesse Stephaney & Man of the Year Toby Lefort
JohnPaul’s Paul & John with Tubby’s Golden Lantern’s Rick
20 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
SDGM XXXV Paloma & LSGRA Pres. Lance
The Largest Official Southern Decadence Press Party hosted at JohnPaul’s ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Al & Dwain, Ambush, Larry Graham
VIP Reception at the Bourbon Street Home of Electra City & Tittie Toulouse prior to the Official Southern Decadence Press Party ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Larry Graham
Southern Decadence Susan Lucci’s Rip & Marsha flank Southern Decadence Grand Marshals XXXV Tittie & Paloma
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 21
These Houston boys pop in to Lafitte’s for some fun
snap
Wood Enterprises’ Ken joins JohnPaul’s John for Rawhide’s July Birthday BYOM Night
paparazzi
Panda Bear’s Ed & Doug at the Lords Luau
Lord Consort XVI Bruce Orgeron welcomes guests to the Lords of Leather Luau
And the fun continues on top of the bar at Lafitte’s
Legendary Alice Brady pops in to JohnPaul’s for a visit
Michael, Kaycee, Ken & Doug in the pool for the Lords of Leather Luau
Legendary Pitty Pat behind the bar at Big Daddy’s
The nameless celeb in the last Ambush is Darrin joining Winston at Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Al & Dwain celebratin’ at JohnPaul’s
Entertainer of the Year Ama Rosa (Alex) gets his meat on at Rawhide’s July Birthday BYOM Night
Frank & Lord King XXVI Gary at the Lords of Leather Luau
Chris welcomes you to Cutter’s
Hurricanman, Bourbon Strip-Tease’s Robert & Doug joining the Lords of Leather Luau
It’s the Summer of Love at Lafitte’s with Evan, Shawn, Bartender of the Year Jeff & Josh
Creig, Edgar, Therese, Dwaine & Ranzy at JohnPaul's
Manager Joe serves some spiked watermelon to Robert for Rawhide’s July Birthday BYOM Night
Randall, Tim & Ron check out photographer Larry Graham’s new poster, now at Tubby’s Golden Lantern
22 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
Swimmin’, Strippin’, Celebratin’ ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Al & Dwain
Capt. David Boyd pouring a cold one at Lords of Leather’s Luau at Lions Inn B&B
The real men of Amon Ra: Rhonda & David Roget, & Cathy Foxx pop in for the Lords Luau
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 23
ambush
under the gaydar
paparazzi
Celebrations, Birthdays, Cocktails ~ Metairie, New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Pride Specialty
by Tony Leggio E-mail: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM
Legendary Alice Brady celebrates her 82nd birthday at The Friendly Bar Chuck celebrates with birthday boy Brad at 4 Seasons in Metairie
Koo, Don & Mother join Alice Brady’s 82nd b-day blowout at The Friendly Bar Anthony & Matthew enjoy the Out Back Bar & Patio at 4 Seasons
DJ E spins Fridays & Saturdays at 4 Seasons Out Back Bar & Patio
Dancing to DJ E at 4 Seasons Out Back Bar & Patio
Toby gets ready to board for his train excursion raising over $8,000 for his NO/AIDS Walk Fund
Sylvia & Pat pop in to The Friendly Bar for Alice Brady’s 82nd b-day blowout
Alice Brady’s b-day blowout brought celebrants Stephen, Kevin & Chuc
The Betty’s: Father & Mother at The Friendly for Alice Brady’s b-day blowout
Thanks to Dining Out For Life Restaurants
Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil for Satyricon
want to start my column off by thanking everyone who attended this year’s Dining Out For Life on July 16. A portion of all the proceeds from participating restaurants go to the NO/ AIDS Task Force. Many of the restaurants enjoyed huge crowds and have reported that this is their best year yet for Dining Out. The final totals from the Task Force will be available soon. We need to make it a point to thank the participating restaurants and their staff by frequenting their establishments throughout the year. You can find a list of all the restaurants that took part in this wonderful event on the NO/AIDS Task Force website. I want to take a moment though to talk about some restaurants that made this night special for their guests who dined with them. First I would like to start with the place I had dinner at which was Louisiana Pizza Kitchen at 615 South Carrollton Avenue. They made the night a memorable dining experience for me and my friends, which included James Williams, Laura Tennyson, Jeff Mallon (aka Elizabeth Bouvier) and the incomparable Princesse Stephaney, who donned a geisha girl outfit complete with painted face and kimono. They themed the night Asian Confusion, a take off on Asian Fusion cuisine, and had decorated the entire restaurant in the theme. Not only was the entire wait staff and kitchen staff in costumes, but many of the diners also dressed for the occasion. We sat next to a table of ninjas. Special menu items also reflected the theme. There was a huge crowd which only added to the lively atmosphere. Other noteworthy guests at LPK that night included a large group celebrating the birthday of Noel Twilbeck, Executive Director of the Task Force, and almost the entire Krewe of Satyricon. Another restaurant that did something special was Mona Lisa at 1212 Royal Street in the French Quarter. They enlisted the help of a famous (or infamous however you want to look at it) entertainer in the city to be their hostess for the night. None other than King Cake Queen XVI Tami Tarmac greeted guests as they entered this wonderful eatery. As always she was her effervescent self and made the night entertaining for all who dined there. So next year, for all those participating restaurants, have fun with this night and do something that will keep people talking and coming back year after year with large groups. And since we are on the subject of the NO/AIDS Task Force, I want to take the opportunity to let people know that the NO/ AIDS Walk is just around the corner on Sunday, September 20 at Audubon Park. Start getting your group together and participate in this amazing event. For more information on the walk and other events the Task Force is doing, check out their website at www.noaidstaskforce.org.
peaking of fun events, mark your calendars because the Mystic Krewe of Satyricon is going to have one hell of a party on Saturday, August 29 at Venusian Gardens. And, I mean this literally, the krewe is throwing a themed party entitled Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil from 8 to 11pm. The tickets are $30 per guest and includes an open bar and food. There will be a hot DJ spinning throughout the night and with special entertainers performing. As of right now, Princesse Stephaney, Elizabeth Bouvier and Sadie Shepard are all set to perform, with many more special guests. There will be a costume contest for the best good costume and evil costume judged by the incredible Miss Becky Allen. And, if anyone knows a Satyricon party, there is never any shortage of hot half dressed male models lounging around. The key for this night is to find out if you want to use your powers for good, or for evil. You decide. For tickets and other information, call 504.525.4498. Speaking about great events, the Krewe of Satyricon just hosted a widely successful evening at the Friendly Bar on Saturday, July 18. The Krewe sponsored a fund-raiser entitled Let’s Make A Wheel of Bingo hosted by the powerful raw talent of Todd Thunder. Talk about your “thunder down under” this is not your mama’s bingo. In fact, this is probably the X-rated version of your mama’s bingo. You could win prizes such as a Cigar Penis, or a penis sculpture or porn. How exciting. And the names of the games took on new meanings such as “Deal or No Deal” or “Guess My Porn Name” or the ever popular “Stick Your Hand In My Hairy Hole.” Todd kept the audience entertained along with his by two bawdy assistants. Sadie Shepard guest starred as Ms. Kristy Kream and Queen Satyricon VII Wedon Brown was Ms. Cinnamon Buns. Vanna White eat your heart out, these two “ladies“ know how to handle a game show contestant. Stay tuned for the next Let’s Make a Wheel of Bingo coming later in the year. For more information on the krewe, go to their website at www.mystickreweofsatyricon.com.
I
S
Happy 175th Edgar Degas
A
nd, I want to say a big happy birthday to Edgar Degas, who turned 175 this year on July 19. The event was commemorated with a soiree that included French cuisine, wine and specialty absinthe libations by Le Tournament Vert. If you haven’t tried absinthe before, you can start now since it was just made legal in the United States. This wonderfully potent elixir is famous for being a hallucinogenic, so the more you drink, the more the person you are with becomes better looking. After a few, hell you are thinking you are with Brad Pitt. So
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the pink pastor by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw, 504.214.4340 E-mail: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com www.thebigeasymccblog.blogspot.com
When being in the club isn’t worth the cost.
P
ity the poor Episcopal Church, the offspring of The Church of England, it has always defined itself by its historical origins and its membership of the worldwide Anglican Communion. All that will probably change since the leadership of the Episcopal Church took the honest and brave decision to restart the consecration of openly gay bishops and to allow for a service blessing for same-sex unions. The reactionary and rabid elements within the Anglican Communion (such gentle and thoughtful souls as The Archbishop of Nigeria and the Archbishop of The Congo, who both belief LGBT folk are in some way ‘animals’) will now certainly move to have ECUSA (The Episcopal Church) thrown out of the communion. That would be a terrible pity, but far from being the worst thing that could have happened. The worst thing for the spiritual and moral integrity of the Episcopal Church would have been to have folded to the brutish demands of the fundamentalists and acted contrary to the honest and difficult process of discernment that the church has been in these last ten years or so. ECUSA is doing what it is doing at some considerable cost; the easy thing is always not to challenge people’s prejudices, and leave unexamined the great body of beliefs and instincts that go contrary to Jesus’ message, but are very dear to humanity. Of course, there is still a mixed picture in the Episcopal Church as regards acceptance and celebration of LGBT people, some bishops are very accepting, and some are actively in cahoots with the African Bishops and others in pushing an
agenda that denies the humanity of LGBT folk. The Bishop of Louisiana is far from being on the side of the angels on this issue, and we may hope that the upcoming election of a new bishop installs someone closer to the aspirations of New Orleans and further from the old certainties of Hicksville, LA. The actions of the ECUSA leadership in biting the bullet and siding with justice has honestly and profoundly changed my opinion of the entire church. I still think that most Episcopal churches desperately need to find a place for a more passionate and heartfelt response to the glory of God, and until they find it they will continue their slow and painful decline, but a corner has
been turned, and at least the church leadership can now look all those Gay and Lesbian Episcopalians in the eye. It is natural to want to belong to an old and exclusive club, but I, as a priest of the Church of England (before I transferred to MCC) suspect that the truth is less glorious. The Anglican Communion used to be known as ‘The Empire at prayer’, and in truth it is mostly an ecclesiastical shadow of the old British Empire – occupying those bits of the map (some quarter of the world’s surface) that used to be painted pink in atlases, and was ruled directly or indirectly from London. It is a ‘fond thing vainly invented’ that serves an uncertain purpose in the 21st century - in some parts of the world it is little more than an ex-pats club, and in other parts of the world it is entirely unrecognizable as the church that sprang from the same source as ECUSA and the Anglican Church of Canada. In places like Nigeria it does battle with externally funded Islamic extremism in a fruitless attempt to be more authoritarian, more extreme, more ‘black and white’ than it’s competition. In truth, there is no
real cultural link between the Anglicans of America and those in Nigeria except a common heritage of colonialism and the occasional nod to the hard pressed Archbishop of Canterbury back in England. ECUSA should be praised and supported. The Diocese of Louisiana should be encouraged to follow the lead of the leadership and start offering gay marriage even before the state legally recognizes it (as MCC does). Would it be too much to hope that one day the old established churches become a force for good in the world instead of trailing progress by several decades? ECUSA has moved itself firmly into the bright side of history, away from an uncertain heritage and historic and ugly links to privilege and power. Let us hope that this serves as a catalyst for renewal and revival in a church that is now better served to provide moral leadership. Rev Clinton Crawshaw is the fulltime pastor of The Big Easy MCC. They meet every Sunday at 5pm at 1333 S. Carrollton Avenue.
under the gaydar ...from 24 drink away. Also, at this festivity, a dramatic exhibit entitled Degas and New Orleans was unveiled in the South Wing of the Degas House at 2300 Esplanade Avenue. The Degas House is the only American home or studio of the French Impressionist Master Edgar Degas, open to the public, anywhere in the world. The Degas House is America’s most treasured piece of Impressionist History. Guided tours are conducted by Appointment Only. Tour length is approximately one hour and includes a viewing of our award-winning documentary, Degas in New Orleans, a Creole Sojourn. So next time you have guests in town and want to add a little culture to their lives, take them to the Degas house, it is an amazing piece of history in our cultural city. For more information on the Degas house, check out their website at www.degashouse.com. Have an event or have something of interest to the LGBT community, feel free to send press releases or information to tonymgp@hotmail.com.
26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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CANAL STREET
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ROYAL
ST. LOUIS
DAUPHINE
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classifieds
1800 19 FR EL YS IA N
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body rubs
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 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 KAJUN'S PUB, 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947.3735 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
bush, OneMightyWeekend.COM
computers Baton Rouge, LA [225] JDiT NETWORKING SOLUTIONS, Jerry Durden, 229.6108, JDiT.US
counseling New Orleans, LA [504] DAVID WAGNER, M.Ed., Counseling & Psychotherapy, 3001 Fifth St., Metairie, LA 70002; 836.0000 WILLIAM C. AUSTIN, LCSW, Individual & Family Therapy, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LA Lic # 8042, 1532 Ursulines Ave., 504.586.7400, 225.571.5964
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 [is1609] NEW GUY IN TOWN - Avail for full body rubdowns starting @ $50 for Fr Qutr area. All other areas, add'l fee. 24 hrs. Out calls only, 616.334.1432 [is1609]
Baton Rouge, LA [225] FOUR SEASONS FLOWERS & GIFTS, 3482 Drusilla Ln., Drusilla Shopping Center, 924.1386, 1.800.237.5381
bookstores
New Orleans, LA [504] ANGLE CUSTOM FRAME, 4422 Magazine St., 269.3726
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 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
galleries
cable shows 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
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
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, 2009, 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 Am-
florists framing
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 America Damron Travel Guide, 800.462.6654, www.damron.com Gulf South/United States AMBUSH Mag, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, ambushmag.com; email: info@ ambushmag.com International GayBars.COM, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137; 504.522.8049, webmaster@gaybars.com United States/Canada GAYELLOW PAGES: Informing the US/ Canada LGBTG Community since 1973. Separate sections for Women and Ethnic/Multicultural focus. PO Box 533, NY, NY 10014-0533; 212.674.0120, http://gayellowpages.com gayellowpages@earthlink.net. Sold at Alternatives/New Orleans, LA
groceries/delis New Orleans, LA [504] QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416 VERTI MART, 1201 Royal St., 525.4767
hair salons New Orleans, LA [504] BOBBY BLUE 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 OFADEAN SALONSPA & WELLNESS CENTER, 536 Chartres, 522.3318, ofadeansalonspa.com SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur St., 565.5555
laundries New Orleans, LA [504] RALPH'S QUARTER LAUNDERETTE & DRY CLEANING, 1101 Bourbon St., 522.9274
28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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]
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
Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.com
massage New Orleans, LA [504] 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 [is2/2010]
media New Orleans, LA [504] AMBUSH Mag, Official Gay Easter Guide, Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide, Official Gay New
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29
30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
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 [is1609]
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 10am4:30pm, Sun 1-5pm MUSEECONTIHISTORICALWAXMUSEUM, 917 Conti, 525.2605, Daily 10am-5:30pm NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM, 945 Magazine, 527.6012 NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 488.2631, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERNART, 925 Camp St., 539.9600 OLD U.S. MINT, 400 Esplanade, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm PRESBYTERE, 751 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL, Jackson Square, Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1:30-5pm
music New Orleans [504] SKULLY'Z RECORDZ, 907 Bourbon St.
organizations Mobile, AL ALABAMA PRIDE FEST, MobileAlabamaPride.COM AQUA, THE PARTY, PO Box 145, Mobile, AL 36601, TheAquaParty.COM BAY AREA INCLUSION, BayAreaInclusion.ORG
FUSION, MobileFusion.ORG GULF COAST BEARS & LEATHER ASSOCIATION, b-bobs.com/gcbla.htm 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 Orleans, 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
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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 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 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:
alexandria, olympus style Beer Pong at a Gay Bar
B
eer pong? At a gay bar? No way! Looks like queers and beers go hand in hand, after all. Besides, there’s no such thing as white whine spritzer pong. Olympus had it’s first beer pong tournament a couple of weekends ago, and it was a success. Dann and Eric are working going out of their way to give their patrons more options than binge drinking and line dancing on Saturday night. There’s also been talk of starting a Texas Hold ‘Em tournament, which I’m sure will be a hit with gay and straight alike.
AMBUSH
MAG.COM 828
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 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
Speaking of our breeding brethren, Olympus is quickly becoming a wonderfully straight-friendly gay bar. Do they make a sticker for that? It’s not just straight or bi-curious women, either. There’s an increasing straight male population that hangs out around the pool tables and jukebox. It’s only natural, really, that an eclectic mix of people have taken to Olympus. It’s easily one of the nicest bars in Cenla, the liquor selection is above average, it’s open seven days a week, the bathrooms are clean and the staff is friendly. I don’t know what else a person could want in a bar. A friendly bartender is all I need. And, it bears mentioning that Miss Grace is one of my favorites around. I refer to her amongst my friends as “Saving Grace.” She can make anyone’s day better. Before I get sappy, I should mention a very important matter: Miss Gay Louisiana America! The annual pageant is typically held at Splash in Baton Rouge, but this year with the help of Olympus’ ever-growing reputation - Alexandria will be home to the three-day pageant. So, clear your calendars and grab a chair early August 19-21. Reigning Miss Gay Louisiana Anastasia Davenport will perform August 19. Oh, and on the off-chance that any of you burly boy-lovers have forgotten, the first meeting of the Central Louisiana Bear Association was Aug. 2. Join up, and make your people proud!
spas New Orleans, LA [504] CLUB NEW ORLEANS, 515 Toulouse, 581.2402, www.the-clubs.com FLEX NEW ORLEANS, 700 Baronne St., 598.FLEX [3539] SPA ATLANTIS PROFESSIONAL SPA & SALON, 740 Gravier St., 566.8088, SpaAtlantis.NET
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
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It’s Dominatrix Barbie
alexandria
Olympus Bar Has It All: Winners, Amigos & Cheerleaders ~ Alexandria, Louisiana
paparazzi Miss Olympus at her best!
Yeah, I know I am bad!!! OMG!!! Sponge Bob
Cheerleaders rock Freaky Friday Costume Contest Winner
Yay, new drag!!!
Save a horse, ride a cowboy!!!
The 3 Amigos
Lucinda’s Drag Prom picture
GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 33
red stick paparazzi Jeremy airing out the family jewels Gorgeous Jeremy with Adorable Andy
Darrin and Scotti Bar barons Guy and Jeff
Having fun in Red Stick
Michael and Lesbian of the Year Chansley
Mikey and Chansley
Richard and Ronnie
Ronnie and Andy
Sexy Ty at Splash
Richard and Cheridon Comedy Award r recipient Gia
Stephen and Jimmy Hound Dogs Johnny and Paul
Rev. Keith at MCC
Luther and Quentin’s beautiful other half
Mark and Jeff
Brooke and Luther
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Pretty in pink
The Capital City ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict
Rick and Tom
Splash’s Trixxie and Miss Valentine
hot tails of red stick by Brad Benedict E-mail: bradhottails@hotmail.com
The Second Half
H
as it occurred to you yet that 2009 is half gone? Where has the time gone? I actually didn’t notice it until I typed in the code for this column format. It was evident that this column format had entered the second half of the year. Wow! I think the passage of time goes much faster the older one becomes. Maybe that is why so many “happy people” make the most of “making merry.” Whatever the case, it is not just happening in Baton Rouge but all over the country. It is just that we are more apt to know what is going on locally. My advice in old Red Stick is to get out now and take in Splash where you can dance to the best music in the entire South. If you like karaoke, then you need to check out George’s, or show up for the bar boys, one of their new early happenings here. You don’t have to wait until late to see a nice body. Try happy hours on designated nights. As far as a fun time in general, you only have to stop in at Hound Dogs, relax with a drink, and chat with two of the happiest people I know, Johnny and Joy. Who says you have to leave Baton Rouge to have fun? I think not. It’s all happening right here. If you want to make things even better,
just read on. Help is on the way, but you need to heed the call if you want it to be a big success.
Important Meeting
C
apital City Alliance (CCA) will be holding an open meeting on Monday, August 10 from 68pm at MCC Baton Rouge, located at 7747 Tom Drive. Anyone who is interested in working to improve the quality of life for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered people in the Baton Rouge area are urged to attend the meeting. Bring your ideas and energy into this effort, and provide your support in every way you can. Specific volunteer opportunities set for discussion will be the following items: 1. Developing a directory of gay businesses or businesses that are either LGBT-owned or friends to LGBT 2. Improving the usefulness of the CCA website 3. Partnering with the LSU School of Social Work to do another survey 4. Identifying social networking opportunities Kevin Serrin, Chairman, Capital City Alliance also wants to broaden CCA’s reach into the community. Right now, he has only 150 e-mail addresses. There are
more than 700,000 people in the greater BR area, and contact is needed with more of the substantial gay population living here. Word needs to get out to the community for people to provide their e-mail addresses to CCA. This way, everyone can be informed of important information. You can do your part by contacting all of your gay and lesbian friends in the greater Baton Rouge area and asking them if they have signed-up with CCA. There is no cost, and all e-mail addresses are kept private. Even if you are one those who aren’t interested in working directly to improve things in Baton Rouge, at least get this message out to everyone you know who just might be interested in helping out. Ask them to sign-up with CCA by going to the website: http://www.ccabatonrouge.org. Click on the ‘Contact Us’ link on the left side of the home page. All comments, thoughts, and other feedback are welcomed.
Important Meeting
I
t isn’t just the season that one might consider hot. It is all the happy people here that make it such a hot place. One of the hottest of the hotties is a stud named Jeremy. I still haven’t cornered this guy, so I may have to ask Luther for a little help here. All I know is that this stud can grace the cover of any magazine, and to my knowledge, he isn’t even a model. As far as I’m concerned, you don’t have to be a model to be a standout in the looks department. Some people just don’t realize how gorgeous they are. I think Jeremy is in this category. He, of course, isn’t the only guy I know that fits
this description, but I do believe that at this point in time, I would place him in the number one position. Then you know when I talk of positions, the fabulous Ty comes into focus. This is one of those masculine types that just beg to be loved and admired. He has that charisma that tells you he knows exactly where he is, where he’s going, and definitely where he’s been. Ty is one of those guys who just doesn’t realize how sexy he is. He knows how to dress to accentuate the positive, but at the same time, you can remove the clothes and you have the makings of a gorgeous and sculptured body. To me, Ty is a man’s man. He just oozes with charm, and he doesn’t even realize how sexy he really is. Good gracious, young man! You are absolutely one of the finest specimens of male sexuality in the entire city. You are really a wonderful human being. I can’t leave it here without mentioning Stephen. This guy has come to have an exceptionally beautiful body that shows how he has worked long and hard at obtaining this success. I can recall the day when he was just another beautiful young man with a gorgeous smile to bring out the happiness of the surroundings. Then, it would seem, that over night, he became a muscle stud. And stud is the right word for this youngster. He is just outstanding in every way, and he too could turn the modeling world upside down with that radiant smile and fantastic body. You are really a nice one, Stephen. A really nice guy with one of the most vibrant personalities I know. [continued on 37]
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trodding the boards by Patrick Shannon, III E-mail: nedcat@earthlink.net
White Noise
T
he musical White Noise, prior to it’s hopeful run in some NYC theater on Broadway’s Great White Way, was given a try-out run at the financially troubled Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre. (The producers of the musical used all forms of advertising media including the delightful media contact I spoke with, Ms. Amy Ferguson - and social networks to get their message out, and the audience in to see White Noise. And, even after an obvious and protracted absence of this show on Marc and Kelli Fouchi’s www.stageclick.com finally an incomplete web page was created by a JimmyD. Maybe now that the show has closed, photographs for the show and pertinent information will be added.) White Noise was conceived by Ryan Davis, and has a book by Matte O’Brien with music and lyrics by Joe Drymala, Robert Morris, Steven Morris, and Joe Shane. The story and characters were created by Joe Drymala. Additional songs were by Laurence O’Keefe, Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and Sharon Vaughn. Donald Byrd directed and choreographed the show, along with direction by Mitchell Maxwell. Scott Lowell assisted with the choreography -”Hip Hop Country.” Costumes were designed by David C. Woodlard. Lighting design was supplied by Jason Lyons. The Solomon Groups Jay Taylor created the sound design. Mark Adam Rampmeyer was responsible for hair and wig design. His designs were supervised by Greg Bonin. For once, The Louisiana Legislature not known for its sophisticated electees regarding any arts funding, actually made an intelligent decision in allowing some tax benefits as an incentive for producers to bring their unproven theatrical dreams for a complete production as an old-fashioned-Bandwagon-and-All-About-Evelike-out-of-town tryout in New Orleans. With, according to the New York Post’s Michael Reidel, some behind the scenes drama and backstabbing. (An abridged concert version had been produced at UNO; and noted by the now retired and always respected Times Picayune theater guy, David Cuthbert.) Hence the arrival of a fully produced and realized White Noise, a musical about all you ever wanted to know about hate mongers, red neck attitudes, the “n” word (as repeatedly used in the show a lot) and other aspects of race-hate concerning not only African Americans: but faggots, dykes; transgenders; gender queers; drag queens and kings; and Jews. If nothing else, these subjects or this subject of Nazi worship and swastika tatoos and hate for “all things different” resulted in a provocative story line which also, in this pre-Broadway try out, made for an entertaining formulaic musical. I’m am not sure it will run in NYC and become a NYC hit returning its investors their money after a long run; but one thing I can say assuredly: if they keep this amazing cast, they will increase their
chances for the illusive brass ring of a Broadway smash or at least a successful stay on a NYC stage. These performers were perfect in their roles. Not only acting but singing and dancing with conviction and professionalism. Here are the names of those highly professional performers and their characters’ names: Brandon Williams as Rick Kent, Mackenzie Mauzy as Eva Siller, Patti Murin as Kady Siller, Andrew McGinn as Bob Siller, Patrick Murney as Duke, David Nathan Perlow as Kurt, Rodney Hicks as Tyler, Antwayn Hopper as Dion, Nancy Anderson as Laurel Siller, and Peter Hilton as Pete Martin. Jacob Ben Widmar, Heather Hamilton, Stacey Harris, Grasan Kingberry, and Krisha Marcano made up the effective ensemble. Each and every one, as stated, gave a convincingly faultless performance. This is not the first musical to touch upon race relations (think back to Show Boat and The King and I and South Pacific) but I think this is the first musical to make race relations its primary theme. Principals are the two singing Siller sisters, blonde haired and blue eyed, and a guitarist boyfriend with skinned head and a secret tatoo across his entire back of (guess what, yes you got it, that old Nazi tribute, the crooked cross). They are moderately successful, but need their “big chance”. Along comes a jaded manager, Evil Incarnate. He convinces the trio to sing their songs with “secret coded words” that can be recognized as substitutes for the "N" word, Jew, Fag, etc. by “those in the know.” Mr. Manager is a money-first, morals-gone guy. The trio becomes a big success on the singing and recording circuit which of course results in a bloody tragedy. A predictive show, yes. A successful show, possibly. First it’s too long. Cut about 30 minutes. Second, that opening dance number with an Oriental slant has no effectiveness and should be cut as well as the dance in which all the dancers perform in all white gauzy floaty costumes. It’s useless also. And then there are the lights! All throughout the show, the lighting designer allows glaring blinding lights to shine German prison camp style in the eyes of the audience in too many scenes. This was an insult to the audience, and does nothing to increase the interest of the plot or anything else. All the “blindlights” do is blind most of the audience over and over. Cabaret and The Full Monty made effective use of a stage white out, by a sparing use of the effect, here it is over used.
The Rocky Horror Show
T
he Rocky Horror Show I saw early in its run at the Marigny Theatre was not only rocky, but somewhat horrid compared to other productions. Rocky and horrid may even work in an over the top show such as this with book, lyrics, and music by Richard O’Brien; but not when the rock music is so loud it drowns out the singing; and the spoken
dialogue is mostly swallowed and lost. And it seems at times the performers (all of them really able to sing well) were forced to sing in the wrong key (too low on the scale). The music was well done by Musical and Stage Director Jonne Dendinger aka Dr. Jonne, as we have come to expect from this highly professional talent; and the house was packed so perhaps the sound volume was overcompensated due to the body mass of the audience. However, of the million or so productions I’ve seen of this pop art rockschlock this one was very uneven, and a lot of good talent on the stage seemed wasted. This production was campy for all the wrong reasons. Yet it did work on a certain level. Playing the lead, Dr. Frank N. Furter was our town’s theatrical treasure Becky Allen and she pulled out all the stops as usual, but playing the Dr. as a female transvestite does dull the iconoclastic suggestions of the show. Ms. Allen had her own wonderful huge stage presence, and wore her glittery costumes (provided by Dwayne Sepcich) making entrances like a Momus Mardi Gras float decorated with the old golden curtain from the Metropolitan Opera House, and all of the glittery and shiny materials that could be scooped up from the Krauss remnant tables in olden times. Close upon her heels is our new rising star Rikki Gee, a sort of Mini-Me Becky Allen playing Magenta. Unlike a big Mardi Gras float (or the Queen Elizabeth, the boat of the Renaissance monarch) decorated for Mardi Gras like Ms. Allen, Ms. Gee plows on stage like a sturdy little tug boat Annie, being short of height but broad in the beam. Ms. Gee could probably stand in for Ms. Allen when she grows up. She certainly makes a theatrical impression in any role she creates and she did that night as the mighty li’l Magenta. Eric Liddick played the role of the naive Brad Majors and he was a delicious sight in his tighty-tiny-whities, showing a box sufficient to satisfy any needed sex appeal. His equally sexy “beard” aka lavender cover-up girlfriend/fiance was played by the well stacked Susie Wilshire as Janet Weiss. Both of these actors were excellent. Jason George, (think Naked Boys Singing! - sigh...) a very fine talent was wasted in the role of Riff Raff, with few words and little stage biz except to wander around with a hump back and white face. Unlike Verdi’s Rigoletto who humpbacks throughout the great opera as a main singing character, Mr. George worked his part well, but made little impression. He would have been a divine Dr. Frank N. Furter. Lisa Davis, one of my favorite local performers, is a petite actress who becomes a giant on stage in any role because of her endless sharply toned abilities. She made the part of Columbia even bigger and snappier. Ms. Davis returns in the role from a pre-Katrina version of the show also conceived by Jonne Dendinger. Marshall Harris, our tall, hunky wellendowed (think Naked Boys Singing! again - sigh...) local blue eyed, blond, muscled actor was perfect in the role of the newly created fully grown baby monster man, Rocky, a Creature. He was directed to play the role as an innocent new born sucking on his thumb with wide eyed innocent looks all of which he did with charm, showing off all his talent espe-
cially wearing that silver lame cod-pieced posing shorts. Mr. Harris is every ones dream come true, a really golden man with natural talent(s) galore. Mr. Harris also created an effective advertising sign for outside of the performance venue, and inside he created an ambiance of funhouse “...terrible thrills... Like a science fiction... Double feature...” John North was excellent in the roles of unfortunate teddy-and-Columbia loving Eddie and his uncle Dr. Scott, and especially as Dr. Scott. He has mastered these roles, and I will never tire of seeing him do it. Our town’s Karen Hebert is another local legendary performer. Her elegant long legged beauty of both body and face served her well in the role of the Narrator. Her thick German Accent was faultless as was her Dominatrix acting, singing and dancing skills. She is able to make every role a starring role, and I’ve never seen her do anything on stage that wasn’t right. She also did the fine choreography. Almost stealing the show were the two Phantomettes, played by Dwayne Sepcich and Andrew Otts in gender-fuckdrag with Windsor Red bee-stung lips (make-up by Nick Farley) and totally jaded expressions they were a knockout addition to the comedic and iconoclastic theme of the show. (Mr. Sepcich crossed dressed over to the “dark side” from Gary Rucker’s version of this musical, which was presented twice at Rivertown Rep after hurricane Katrina. While Mr. Otts just crossed dressed from Breaking Up Is Hard To Do, directed at Rivertown Rep by Patrick Mendelson. Who would have thought that Kenner is such a hot, hot, hot bed of gender confusion. But then care free and careless girlish gossip has been bandied about - breathlessly... Will back stage canoodling be next? It happened at Tulane Summer Lyric - “In the back row... At the late night... Double feature... Picture... Show...”) Dennis Monn and Arrow Rogers created the appropriate set for adventures of Denton, Texas natives Brad and Janet “over at the Frankenstein place” that was lighted by Zalia Bevile. Philip Gordon (think Naked Boys Singing! yet again sigh...) created the sound effects, sound design, and musical sequencing. Ms. Gee, along with Philip Gordon as G*Whiz Productions co-produced this show with Jonne Dendinger’s Moonsong Productions. This is Mr. Gordon’s and Ms. Gee’s first foray into production in the piranha baby pit of the local New Orleans Theatre Community. This was an interesting first effort. Good luck to them in future productions. Even though this production never really came together and was uneven, it was still a delight to see each of these fantastic performers really put their all into the attempt to make it work. I hear that they were playing to full houses most of the time, even though near the end of the run there was some back stage savagery Dame Gossip (who “loves being a girl” though a bit long in her tooth) tells me. But that’s often what you get when a bunch of really talented people jostle for the spotlight, isn’t it? Or perhaps a bunch of insecure talents? Actors do have such fragile egos.
Southern Decadence SouthernDecadence.COM
36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
allons acadiana by Chris Perkins, Lafayette, Louisiana E-mail: keebler_6984@yahoo.com
Refreshing Beverages
S
o ends the hustle and bustle of June and July, and we now prepare ourselves for the months ahead, for some that means the next few months will be focused in on school, for others it just simply means more drinking. Whichever group you fall into you know there is always a place open that will satisfy your sensation of nice refreshing beverage. That’s right, Sound Factory, Lafayette’s Premier Gay Dance Club and Bar, caters to everyone’s drinking needs and social wants and desires, from a Monday night pool tournament with a cash prize winning for first place and Happy Hour specials all night long. If singing is your thing, then head that way for some Kick Ass Karaoke with DJ Chad Evans, and sing until you can't sing anymore, or drink until you can't anymore with their awesome drink specials every thirty minutes for thirty minutes.
hot tails of red stick ...from 34 When I think of manly men, the first one to actually pop to mind is my man John who I usually see when in New Orleans. I can tell you for certain that this one is another jewel of mankind. He too has a body to die for – from top to bottom and all points in between. My goodness! I feel faint just thinking about it. I have one of the sexiest pictures ever of my man John, taken on the Ambush balcony at a certain Mardi Gras Day several years back when it fell on his birthday. I asked Rip if he could be invited up along with his other half Mark, and at the time, I didn’t know the signifi-
They have many other things that go on there from Drag Bingo to Theme Parties to Bear Nights, one way or the other you’re bound to have a spectacular time with the gang from Sound Factory. With ever changing ideas and twist that get thrown in, you will just have to head out and see what everyone from here to out of state is talking about, that is, simply put, a fabulous crew of employees that know what to do to make the crowds of people come back for more each and every night! Crystal's in Lake Charles needs no big introduction, the name is one that everyone is familiar with and flock from all over to party at. So whether you're heading to Lafayette, or heading to Lake Charles, the family and crew of Sound Factory and Crystal's will welcome you and show you what a good time is all about. So until next time, don’t get too carried away with all the drink specials from the staffs at these fabulous two places. Anyway, be safe, and I will hopefully see you all out and about. cance of the day. I think it was a day to remember for him. I know it was for me. Without even knowing it, I had given him a birthday present he wasn’t expecting. I took pictures – lots of pictures – some with, some without the coverings, like I used to do from that balcony each year. That sexy picture of John was fully clothed, bending over, looking over the balcony, but featuring the most gorgeous butt you have ever seen. Oh, my! I’m feeling faint again. I’ll always love this one and recall so many happy times together. I remember so well that time when he took care of me after that dipping experience. I didn’t realize how strong that stuff was, but my resulting
dizziness required a helping hand from this beautiful guy. Isn’t it strange how one thought, one memory, can lead to another? Of course, when you have been around the scene for so many years, you have the advantage of experiencing so much, and definitely have some great memories. That photo session with Mark was really great too, but the result was one of the best calendars I’ve ever seen promoting a candidate for any office or contest. Mark is a beautiful and caring man too, and he and John make such a wonderful couple. I am always happy to be able to share a little time with them. I need to get back to the big city more, but then again, it isn’t the big city it once was. So much has changed with New Orleans, but I loved my apartment in the French Quarter, using it as my writing hideaway, spending countless hours working. It was peaceful there with the rain falling on the banana leaves and the sounds of the boats on the river. It was even better just knowing that the sexiest weatherman in history had the adjacent apartment and didn’t mind baring his body while he worked around his apartment. Russ showed the other side of himself when he was on TV, but I knew him as a great guy - handsome and loving life. It was with extreme sadness when I learned that he has passed away. The last time I talked to him was when I was at the airport in Atlanta and gave him a call. I’m so glad I did. This brings to mind the time I met Jeff Stryker on that famous Ambush balcony again. Some great people have visited there and enjoyed the fine hospitality that Rip and Marsha always provide their guests. Jeff was totally different from what I thought he might be like. I’ve seen so many porn stars that were so much into themselves that they came off rather rude and non-caring of those around them. Jeff was completely the perfection of a gentleman. He was so down to earth that I found it almost difficult to believe I was even talking to him. It was a special party, and I came away with special memories of that night in historic old New Orleans. Sometimes I think back and recall those fabulous Wednesday nights at Oz, but staying up all night and then having to drive back to Baton Rouge had to end, so I just finally convinced myself that I wouldn’t do it again. Now I usually travel down with a nondrinking chauffeur in case I want a drink or two. I know Robert recalls those days. After all, hanging onto a street sign at daybreak told me someone was wasted. He had gotten separated from his wheels, and he had to just wait until someone found him. I think about it now when I see him at the Capitol Grocery or sitting on the porch with those other Spanish Town studs. Robert is another of those extremely nice guys who has one of the best personalities of anyone I know. He just doesn’t know a stranger, and that smile and wave is such a welcome sight. However, I don’t see us going to New Orleans together. Who would drive back? Or find the car? I just thought about another former BR stud, named Kiley. I need to check and see who has heard from him. He left the bright lights of Red Stick to pursue a career in San Francisco. I think the job was at the Presidio and probably was connected to those theater giants. At any rate, I’d like to hear from him. When I go to San Francisco in September, I’d like to kick up my heels with him. Maybe someone will read this and get the message to him. Call me sweetie, and we will head up into the mountains for some wine hunting. I’ve been trying to get back to Las Vegas too. My buddy Tommy lives there, and I haven’t seen his new home yet. He is still working at Wynn, but I expect to see his smiling face during Southern Decadence. It is an excuse to come home, but he doesn’t see much of Eunice. He’s too busy in the Crescent City. Oh, my goodness! You should have seen his pictures from last year. I think this is the year for me to hang out with him. If not with Tommy, I guess I’ll have to see if I can catch up with my Kenny boy. He manages to get out of Acadiana now and then. In fact, he was at the Country Club just a week or so ago. I hope he kept it covered or at least well oiled. That sun can really do damage to sensitive body parts. Let me know the next time you are going down, and I’ll manage to get down there too. Goodness! That sounds erotic! Jeannie and I haven’t done the New Orleans thing yet. One of these days, I’m just going to have to put her in the car and take off. It would be really nice if we could talk Joy and Katie into joining us. The only problem is we don’t have a driver to get us back to Baton Rouge. Okay, Sam, are you up for this? It would be fun to do this little jaunt with Josie, Claudette, and Debbie too. Here again, I really don’t know who the designated driver would be. I guess it would have to be Sam again. Oh, and Ken darling - the next time you and your other half go to Roberto’s on the River, let me know. It is one of the best hidden or out-of-way restaurants in the entire state, and I love dining there. For more information about the 38th Southern Decadence celebration of gay live, music, and culture, go to www.SouthernDecadence.com. Let’s all go this year and live it up a little.
Reach the Market
Ambush
504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37
acadiana
paparazzi
Laurel works the crowd for her CD Release Party at Sound Factory
And greeting people for the Red Party was...
A crowd shot of the Red Party
What he was so shocked for we may never know...lol The girls from the Red Party stop & pose
Our Hairiest Chest Contestants Steven & Courty Court
Well, well, well, what have we here...
Yes, even people from Dallas came for Bear Night at Back Side
Aww sha
Shelby Stevens always looking lovely
Lil Red Riding Hood and of course a fairy, I mean an angel, oh it’s Rick Well guess what they came to see
And our winner is... HAIRY!!! LOL
Beverley ‘n Macky
The guys enjoying the view & drink specials
Courty ‘n Dildora
Look how cute they are, well at least they think so...
And these two, would like to thank all that helped...
38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
Nightlife at Sound Factory & Back Side ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Chris Perkins
As his shirt said, got fur?
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Laura Tennyson & Troy Powell at Mwindo’s fund-raiser at JohnPaul’s Chad & Sarah party at Big Daddy’s
Celebrating turning 21 at Big Daddy’s
Oz Club Kids: Nathan Brooks, Jonathan, Party Host Persana Shoulders, Josh Duffy & Ryan at Oz's Toga Party
Ryan & Jonathan joining the festivities at Dance Club of the Year Oz’s Toga Party
Sadie Shepard as Kristy Kream & Wedon Brown as Cinnamon Buns flanking Todd Thunder at Let’s Make A Wheel of Bingo Satyricon party
Celebrating Summer of Love is Turtle Bay Chef Ryan & Bartender of the Year Jeff at Lafitte’s
snap paparazzi
More fun at Oz’s Toga Party
Coy & Jeff join Mwindo’s show at JohnPaul’s
Bartender Lance (c) entertainin’ the gang at Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Former Satyricon Queen & King Hoyle & Todd join Satyricon’s Let’s Make A Wheel of Bingo
Society Page’s Orlando & Trux pop in to JohnPaul’s for Mwindo’s show
Joe behind the bar for Oz’s Toga Party
King Amon Ra Nick Olivares & David Forth at Mwindo’s show
DJ of the Year Tim Pflueger spins for Oz’s Toga Party
NO/AIDS Task Force Exe. Dir. Noel Twilbeck celebrates his birthday at Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown during Dining Out For Life
King & Queen Satyricon Richard Read & Wedon aka Cinnamon at Let’s Make A Wheel of Bingo
Monica Malta & Delaney Toups at Big Daddy’s
Bitch of the Year Princesse Stephaney joins Dining Out For Life
40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
Out & About ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Larry Graham, Tony Leggio
Ted, George & Capt. Mickey at Satyricon’s Let’s Make A Wheel of Bingo at The Friendly Bar Annex
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ambush
paparazzi
Kabrina Watson hits the stage for Phoenix’s 26th Anniversary
Corner Pocket’s Michael & Oz’s Tommy heading to Detroit for their aunt’s 94th b-day Golden Age Revue’s special guest Opal Masters at JohnPaul’s
Manager Clint & bartender Chris celebrate the Phoenix’s 26th
Bartender Ashlee snags dancer AJ at The Corner Pocket
Lords of Leather’s Allen, Capt. David & Michael at JohnPaul’s for the Lords Vegas Game Night
Dancers Jonathan & Daniel for their close-up with Corner Pocket hostess Lisa Beaumann
Liz Mikeh of Sordid Lives & Friday Night Lights fame on stage at Oz with emcee Blanche in background
Wayne slings cocktails for Happy Hour on Phoenix’s 26th Anniversary
Rick & Brian pop in for the Phoenix’s 26th Anniversary
Sister Mary Izahor does Ringo Thursdays at Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Dancer Brian joins Corner Pocket’s Troy Cutter’s Mac & Billy cocktailin’ at the Phoenix’s 26th Anniversary
X-mas in July Reindeer with Santa Lance at Tubby’s Golden Lantern
Miss Upper Schwegmann Heights Zena live for the Phoenix’s 26th Anniversary show Fire & Ice
Aletha, Savanna, Jaded Jade & Miss Billie do Christmas in July at Starlight By The Park
Miss Gay New Orleans Universe Mercedes Ellis Loreal hails from Oz
Showgirl Eva “The Diva” Las Vegas returns to The Golden Age Revue at JohnPaul’s
Easter Grand Marshal IX Ron Issler (aka Safonda Peters) & partner Stuart Nettles present EGM IX Orlando Aloe (center) with his Mayoral Proclamation
42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM
Anniversaries, Dancers, Showgirls & More ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Gary Glitter
Ken & Mack celebrate the Phoenix’s 26th Anniversary: Fire & Ice
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44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • August 4-17, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM