Ambush magazine volume 27 issue 21

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2 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 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

Halloween 26: Twisted Seasons Oct. 29-Nov. 1 in New Orleans

H

alloween 26: Twisted Seasons runs Thursday, October 29 through Sunday, November 1. The mega circuit event will bring thousands of revelers to the city joining thousands of locals benefiting Project Lazarus, a home in New Orleans for men and women with AIDS. Join in four days of exciting parties in the Big Easy all for charity! 2009 will celebrate Halloween’s in New Orleans 26th year of parties and fund-raising. Total donations to Project Lazarus surpassed $4 million last year.

This year’s theme of Twisted Seasons will give each night of the event a different seasonal backdrop, each with a little twist of Halloween New Orleans!

Thursday, October 29 (7:30pm10:30pm; auction preview for hosts at 7pm) brings An Autumn Indulgence at The Shops at Canal Place. The kickoff “dressy” event features a taste of New Orleans food from restaurants around the city, silent auction and a performance by America’s Got Talent's Amy and Freddy, along with premium open bar. Price: $50 at the door or included for Paton, Host or 4 Day Weekend Pass. Event Chair: Nick Nevares; Silent Auction Chair: Tyler Douglas.

On Friday, October 30 (9pm - 3am) it's Wicked Winter Wonderland at Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Drive. At this popular dance club, forecasters are predicting a wicked snowstorm to take over Generations Hall in the Warehouse District. Come get lost in a snow-covered forest complete with icy hot go go dancers.

Stay warm by dancing the night away to hot tunes by Austin’s own DJ Seth Cooper.

Select open bar available for all guests and an exclusive frost bitten VIP Lounge with extra special treats for Patrons and Hosts. This party would make Old Man Winter and Jack Frost jealous. Price: $50 at the door or included for Paton, Host and all passes. Event Chair: Ryan Wentworth; with Nicholas Landry, decoration/design; Brent Meche, decoration/design; Travis St. Pierre, DJ/entertainment.

Saturday, October 31 (10pm-4am) is the big night with A Midsummer Night’s SCREAM at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World. This brand new location on the East Bank of the Mississippi next to the Convention Center promises to be a night to remember. Halloween rarely falls on a Saturday, so this costume extravaganza and DJ Roland Belmares-led dance party is bound to be full of Halloween treats (and tricks!) along with lighting by Bryan Holcombe. Note: the theme of Saturday implies Shakespeare but word on the street is dark and scary - it's Halloween!

Select open bar is included for this costume mandatory dance extravaganza. The Official Halloween New Orleans Costume Contest returns from 11pm-12am on stage followed by the must see midnight show.

This event features an expanded VIP Host Lounge. Enter through Mardi Gras World and see the amazing floats of Mardi Gras.

Price: $70 advance/$80 at the door or included for Paton, Host and all weekend passes. Saturday Event Chairs: Jacob Villere and Nick Nesbit.

The finale on Sunday, November 1 (4:30pm) is Spring Rejuvenation on the Natchez Riverboat, Toulouse Street and the Mississippi River. A perfect way to end the weekend for visitors and residents alike to revitalize your body and soul. Experience the beauty and romance of the New Orleans skyline on the authentic Steamboat NATCHEZ... New Orleans’ only authentic Steamboat, a chartered river cruise with brunch. Restore with the beauty and romance of New Orleans and the Mighty Mississippi River. Refresh with local vocalist Anais St. John and the Harry Mayronne Trio in the dining room. Renew with DJ Mary Pappas at tea dance on the top deck. Price: $50 or included for Paton, Host, and all weekend passes. Sunday Event Chairs: Don Paul Landry and Craig Trentecosta.

This is sure to be one of the biggest Halloweens yet! This year, Halloween weekend is also host to a huge convention and the VooDoo Music Experience so book early to secure your spot!

The mission of the Hosts of Halloween is to provide funding for Project Lazarus, a home in New Orleans for men and women with AIDS, so that they may provide healthcare and support services for their residents. Project Lazarus, which provides direct AIDS services, is the sole beneficiary of all funds which are raised.

For passes, tickets or information, visit HalloweenNewOrleans.COM/Ambush.

Ambush Mag (AmbushMag.COM) and Oz (OzNewOrleans.COM) are proud sponsors of the weekend.

Oz Site for Mr. Louisiana Leather Contest Oct. 17

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he Mr. Louisiana Leather 2010 contest weekend activities have been announced by the Lords of Leather, and will occur at several

venues in and around the French Quarter.

All activities are intended to celebrate the Louisiana Leather community and will culminate in the selection of this year’s representative for International Mr. Leather in Chicago during Memorial Day (May/ 2010).

Events begin Friday night, October 16, at the notorious Phoenix Bar with a Beer Bust and Contestant Meet and Greet.

The Saturday night, October 17, contest will be held at world famous Oz nightclub located at 800 Bourbon Street at 8pm.

Admit donation is $15.

On Sunday, October 18, Brunch will be hosted at John Paul’s to conclude an exciting Leather weekend.

Download contestant applications, and contestant information sheets at LordsOfLeather.COM.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. Wins Big at the 2009 IFEA Conference

T

he International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) paid tribute to French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) on September 23 during the IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Ceremony. The IFEA’s 54th Annual Convention and Expo was held in Indianapolis, Indiana September 21-25, 2009, where FQFI took home six awards in the prestigious competition. The 2009 professional competition drew over 1,500 entries from among the world’s top festivals and events.

Honors were given in the following categories: Gold for Best Miscellaneous Clothing, French Quarter Festival’s 2009 ‘big easy sounds’ hoodie by joshua lee studios; Gold for Best Pin, French Quarter Festival’s 2009 Commemorative Pin-pendent by wellington & company; Silver for Best Promotional Brochure, 2009 Christmas New Orleans Style Brochure; Silver for Best Promotional Poster, 2008 Satchmo SummerFest's Promo Poster; Silver for Best Other Merchandise, 2009 French Quarter Festival’s recycled T-shirt Festival Bags; and Silver for Best Other Merchandise, 2008 Satchmo SummerFest's recycled Tshirt Festival Bags.

Winning entries came from organizations as diverse as 500 Festival, Indianapolis, IN; Disney Destinations, LLC Special Events Management, Bumbershoot, Seattle, WA; Tournament

Big Halloween Edition due out Tuesday, October 27

inside e-mail/letters sappho psalm in the spotlight ambush paparazzi/new orleans the pink pastor/in the spotlight celebrazzi snap paparazzi/new orleans everybody's a critic out & about/alabama, pensacola alabama paparazzi halloween new orleans

DEADLINE: Tues., October 20 10 12 12 14 16 18 20 21 24 24 27

acadiana paparazzi/lafayette hot tails of red stick/baton rouge allons acadiana/lafayette red stick paparazzi/baton rouge trodding the boards alexandria paparazzi classifieds drag 101 gaydar paparazzi/new orleans under the gaydar 41 ambush paparazzi/new orleans

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

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of Roses, Pasadena, CA; St. Luke’s Women’s Fitness Celebration, Boise, ID; Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival, Richardson, TX; Lake Buena Vista, FL; French Quarter Festival, New Orleans, LA; Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga, TN; Pasadena Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival, Canton, OH; The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Philadelphia, PA. International contenders included such diverse event organizations as Daegaya Experience Festival, South Korea; Ludwig Van Beethoven Easter Festival, Poland; Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, Australia; Singapore Garden Festival, Singapore; Ottawa Bluesfest, Canada; The Hague Festivals, The Netherlands; China Hohhot Zhaojun Art Festival, China; Festival Lent, Slovenia. En[continued on 6]

THE OFFICIAL MAG

GulfSouthEntertainment/TravelGuideSince 1982 • Texas-Florida Official Gay Easter Parade Guide Official Gay Mardi Gras Guide Official Gay New Orleans Guide OfficialSouthernDecadenceGuide OFFICE/SHIPPING ADDRESS: 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137 USA OFFICE HOURS: 10am-3pm Monday-Friday [Except Holidays] E-mail: marsha@ripandmarsha.com PHONE: 1.504.522.8049 • 1.504.522.8047 ANNUAL READERSHIP: 650,000+ in print/3.5 Million+ On-line NATIONAL CIRCULATION: USA... Alabama-Birmingham, Foley, Mobile Florida - Pensacola Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Metairie, New Orleans, Shreveport, Slidell Mississippi - Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Jackson Texas - Austin, Dallas, Houston

STAFF: PUBLISHER/EDITOR R. Rip Naquin-Delain, New Orleans PRODUCTION DIRECTOR M. Marsha Naquin-Delain, New Orleans GULF SOUTH/NEW ORLEANS AD SALES Rip Naquin-Delain • 504.522.8049 LESBIAN/POLITICAL ISSUES Toni J.P. Pizanie, New Orleans THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS CRITIC Brian Sands, Patrick Shannon AD REPS/JOURNALISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Brad Benedict-Baton Rouge, LA Chris Perkins-Lafayette, LA Regina & Lee Adams-Mullen, Nathan Brooks, 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

4 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

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the "official" dish ...from 4 tries included posters, merchandise, websites, print and broadcast ads, volunteer programs, community outreach programs, and many other categories.

For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc., or to view the award-winning merchandise, please visit www.fqfi.org.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, which produces French Quarter Festival (April 9-11, 2010) Satchmo SummerFest (August 5-8, 2010) and Christmas New Orleans Style (December, 2009). French Quarter Festivals, Inc. promotes the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans.

NOCCA Hosts 2009 Visiting Artist Exhibition thru Nov. 27

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he NOCCA Institute presents the 2009 Visiting Artist Exhibition running through November 27 in New Orleans. The exhibition features two and three dimensional work in a variety of media by Thomas Mann, Wallace Merritt, Gary Oaks, and David Sullivan. The exhibition is in the Ken Kirschman Artspace on NOCCA’s campus at 2800 Chartres Street. Gallery hours are Mondays through Fridays, 12pm to 6 pm, and Saturdays, 12pm to 3 pm. Admission is free.

A professional artist for over 40 years, Thomas Mann is best known for his “techno-romantic” jewelry which juxtaposes technological references, forms and construction techniques with romantic imagery. Originally from Pennsylvania, the artist exhibited his work at Jazz Fest in 1977 and has called New Orleans home ever since. Over the last few years, he has moved away from his signature technoromantic design vocabulary toward jewelry designs that are models for large-scale sculpture. These days, he attends as many as 15 nationally juried craft and art festivals each year, in addition to overseeing a jewelry studio and gallery.

He has also expanded his role as veteran professional artist to include a focus on education by teaching hands-on jewelry making workshops as well as entrepreneurial thinking to artists of all media.

As a result of teaching workshops, Tom’s latest entrepreneurial endeavor was launching a line of DIY jewelry making kits and supplies at the 2009 Craft & Hobby Association Trade Show in Anaheim, CA. An Alabama native with a degree in Urban Studies, Wallace Merritt moved to New Orleans and studied at A School for Fine Photography.

His photographic concentration changed from architecture to the human form. He spent six months in France and Ireland working with a large format camera. The palladium prints from this European experience were landscapes with a narrative quality. From 1995-2000 he was an [continued on 8]

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the official After Pride Party from 8pm to close.

Visit GayIslander.COM for more info.

Baton Rouge Gallery Announces Rise in Prize Money for 2nd Surreal Salon

D

ue to an overwhelming response, Baton Rouge Gallery is proud to announce an increase in the prize monies that will be handed out at its Second Annual Surreal Salon. The exhibition will run from January 3-28, 2010 at the Gallery inside BREC’s historic City Park. The Surreal Salon will feature the work of contemporary artists from across the country shedding light on the lasting effects of surrealism – one of the most intriguing movements of the 20th century –on the way that contemporary art is created in the 21st century.

the "official" dish ...from 6 instructor at the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts. Today he lives in the Marigny neighborhood and concentrates on portraiture. The intimacy of his secluded courtyard allows him the freedom to create disguises, digressions, or alternate personas.

Gary Oaks was born around the middle of the previous century in Knoxville, Tennessee. After a stint in the U.S. Marine Corps, he earned a BA in Liberal Arts at the University of Tennessee. He moved to New Orleans in 1982, and earned an MFA at LSU, specializing in glass and drawing.

He is currently on the Fine Arts faculty at Southern University at New Orleans where he has taught for eighteen years. He lives in Mid-City with his wife, Mary Jane Parker, and their seven cats.

David Sullivan has been creating various types of artwork with computers since they were able to keep up with his ideas.

Originally, he was a painter, and is interested in how analog and digital processes can assist each other. He has shown his

prints, programs and animations in the USA, Austria, Brazil, and the Antarctic. He is currently a studio resident at LA Artworks and a professor at Loyola University.

Satyricon Presents Opening Night of Bless Ya, Boys

T

he Mystic Krewe of Satyricon will present the opening night of Shine Productions’ Bless Ya, Boys, A History of the Black and Gold as a benefit for the krewe on Thursday, October 15, 8pm, at Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave. Tickets for this performance only are $25 and may be obtained by calling 504.525.4498.

Galveston Pride 2009 to be held Oct. 24 in Historic Downtown

G

ay Pride Inc. will present the 3rd Annual Galveston Pride 2009 on October 24, noon to 8pm in Saengerfest Park. This year’s event will feature pop sensation Tiffany along

with a long line up of entertainment and fun for the whole family.

Tiffany, the youngest female artist to notch a No. 1 debut on the Billboard 200 – headlines Galveston Pride for a day of island celebration. Joining the red-haired diva will be Derrick Barry, (Britney Spears from America’s Got Talent), American Idol’s Kady Malloy, and singer Jay Arseno.

VIP Tickets for special “Meet and Greets” with all performers are available for immediate purchase. Funds will go directly to Pride Galveston and the Osito Foundation, 501c3 organizations. The Osito Foundation assists children with HIV & AIDS. Together Galveston Pride and Osito are striving to change lives one child at a time.

Admission is free for the post Ike Pride festival and visitors will enjoy a park full of live entertainment, food and beverages vendors and much more. Special events related to Galveston Pride 2009 include the Pride Kick-off Party at 3rd Coast Beach Bar, Friday, October 23 from happy hour to close and Saturday, October 24 the Pink Dolphin, Seawall and 9th St. will host

Baton Rouge Gallery is upping the ante for this year’s exhibition with $1,000 in cash prizes to be distributed to the top 3 pieces in the exhibition (as selected by the exhibition’s juror, San Franciscobased artist, David Ball).

Winners will be announced at the Surreal Salon Soiree on January 23, 2009.

The Surreal Salon Soiree will be an evening of visual art, live musical performances, surrealist games and will challenge attendees to top the “surreal” costumes from last year’s event. In addition to the $1,000 in cash prizes awarded to artists, cash and prizes will also be given to the attendees judged to have the “most surreal attire” at the Soiree. The evening will include complementary refreshments and live music by DJ OttO and the criticallyacclaimed band GIVERS. Tickets to the Surreal Salon Soiree are $15.

Baton Rouge Gallery is now accepting applications from those artists interested in being a part of the Second Annual Surreal Salon. This year, eligibility has been expanded to all artists living and creating in the United States and its commonwealths and territories. The application/prospectus for the exhibition is available for download at batonrougegallery.org or can be picked up in person at the gallery.

Artist working in all media is encouraged to apply. Entries for the Second Annual Surreal Salon must be received at BRG by 6pm on Tuesday, November 3, 2009.

For more information on the Surreal Salon, please visit batonrougegallery.org

8 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

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e-mail/letters Subject: your lovely vacation pics Dear Rip and Marsha, I enjoy your paper each week and look forward to your updates on all the local events as well as the pictures of the people of our community. I also appreciate all the work you and your writers do for our community. However, in your last issue I was very upset to see that 2 pages of pictures were devoted to your vacation pictures as well as those of Tony Leggio, where as only half of a page was of the NO/AIDS Walk. To add insult to injury, those pictures were on the next to last page of the Ambush.

I have no qualms about your pictures.

I did like them very much, but I really think more space should have been relegated to the walk and all the people who gave their time, money, and a lot of hard work to a cause that is vital to our community. You did them a dis-service and as a person living with AIDS, I felt slighted as well. Your coverage came across as an afterthought.

Sincerely, --Howard Lees

the "official" dish ...from 8 or call 225.383.1470.

Baton Rouge Gallery is supported in part by funds from the Louisiana State Arts Council and the Louisiana Division of the Arts, and by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge through the Decentralized Arts Funding Program. The Gallery also gets support from BREC, the Community Fund for the Arts, WRKF and the late Paula Manship.

Cleveland Chosen to Host 2014 Gay Games IX

C

ologne, Germany - The city of Cleveland, Ohio, USA, has been chosen by the Federation of Gay Games (FGG) to host the 2014 Gay Games.

The announcement by the FGG comes after a year-long site selection process that culminated in formal presentations by bidding cities to the FGG Membership Assembly meeting this week in Cologne, Germany, site of the 2010 Gay Games. Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and Washington, D.C., USA were the other two finalists.

“Cleveland demonstrated to the Federation of Gay Games that they understood the mission of the Gay Games and our principles of ‘Participation, Inclusion, and Personal Best’(tm),” said Kurt Dahl (Chicago) and Emy Ritt (Paris), FGG CoPresidents. “We were highly impressed by the facilities and infrastructure, the widespread community sport, their financial plan and the city’s experience in hosting large scale sports and cultural events.”

“The City of Cleveland is prepared to roll out the welcome mat to the LGBT athletes, their families and spectators from around the world,” said Cleveland Mayor Frank G. Jackson. “Fans of the Gay Games will find that Cleveland is a great place to

celebrate sports and culture and that we have tremendous assets and amenities for them to enjoy. The sports and cultural environment here is truly a uniquely Cleveland experience, one they will cherish for years to come.”

“We are extremely honoured and pleased that Cleveland has been selected to host the 2014 Gay Games,” said W. Doug Anderson, spokesperson for Cleveland Synergy Foundation, the bidding organization. “It is truly a privilege to continue Dr. Tom Waddell’s legacy and vision in our city -an extremely enthusiastic sports town - where the guiding principles of personal best, inclusion and participation are held dear. We are also pleased to be consid-

Cleveland Mayor Jackson (photo by Donn R. Nottage)

ered and selected from among two of the greatest cities in the world - Boston and Washington, D.C. - and greatly appreciate the support of both cities as Cleveland hosts the Gay Games in 2014.”

The Gay Games is a quadrennial sports and cultural festival founded in 1982 by Olympic decathlete Dr. Tom Waddell. Drawing as many as 12,000 participants, more than the Olympics, Gay Games have been held in San Francisco (1982, 1986), Vancouver (1990), New York (1994), Amsterdam (1998), Sydney (2002), and Chicago (2006). The 2010 Gay Games ( www.games-cologne.com) will take place in Cologne, Germany, from 31 July to 7 August 2010.

Cleveland’s 2014 Gay Games IX Sports & Cultural Festival is scheduled to take place August 9-16, 2014. The 8-day event will feature 30 sports, 4 cultural events, an Opening and Closing Ceremony and community and cultural events throughout the Cleveland metropolitan area. Gay Games generate $50 to $80 million in estimated local economic impact in additional to significant ongoing travel and tourism visibility benefits for the host city.

The announcement was carried live worldwide via webcast. A recording of the announcement can be viewed “on demand” at www.livestream.com/ 2014GayGames.

The Federation of Gay Games is the international governing body that perpetuates the quadrennial Gay Games and promotes the event’s founding principles of “Participation, Inclusion and Personal Best”(tm). For more information, visit gaygames.com.

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sappho psalm

by Toni J.P. Pizanie E-mail: psalmwrite@att.net

The Way I Like It

F

irst comes getting financially well through Southern Decadence. This is a fact that many don’t understand or accept — then comes the busy months with dinners and fundraisers and shopping and celebrating.

But wait; let’s go back to Southern Decadence. This is a great celebration for our city. You may not like it but what it does for the city and for our community in particular is a blessing. I am so sick of hearing about how we should put as much effort into other celebrations such as Pride for example.

There are hundreds of Pride celebrations across the country but there is only one Decadence and it is here. Let’s be thankful and talk to a few business owners who have been concerned over possible closings. Sorry that I get so touchy but I am for both SD and Pride being the biggest successes they can be. They are very different and should never be compared.

If there are organizers who want to put on Pride that would be great for our local community. Is there anyone (in our community) who wouldn’t welcome a Pride celebration? No matter how great the organizers are they will never get the numbers that SD gets. I wonder when I read comparisons if the writers have any idea that SD has evolved from a local party into a national festival.

Do the best you can with Pride and be thankful for whatever numbers you are able to attract. Organizers, I do suggest that you try to involve all GLBT church groups and Gay Mardi Gras Krewes and Gay businesses and clubs. In the past, too many people were left out, too many feelings were pinched. Only one would be too many.

As September bid farewell to Labor Day and SD, weekends became full with other types of events. There was the NO/ AIDS Walk and then came the Acclaim Awards.

Have you ever been to a rubber chicken dinner for your favorite organization and said, next year, I’ll skip it. Me, too. I have finally found the exception – The Forum For Equality’s 2009 Acclaim Awards. This year’s dinner was exceptional and I have to thank the Forum’s dinner committee for a job well done. I was not looking forward to going to Harrah’s but it was much nicer than I expected. The food was not as good as 2007 or 2008 but everything else was better than years past.

I would like to add my congratulations to the winners: Political Leader – Michael Bagneris; Political Activism – James Wiggins; Community Health – Heidi Nagele Chapman; Media – Leonard Pitts, Jr.; Art & Entertainment – Ricky Graham and the Chair’s Award – ACLU of Louisiana.

When Julie Thompson learned that Leonard Pitts was receiving an award, she was thrilled at the thought of meeting one of her heroes. We even arrived a little early so we could stand “Pitts” watch. We

finally lost interest and decided to look for our table. Short attention span, you know.

As Julie’s luck would have it, he was seated only twenty feet from our cozy booth.

We were able to speak with Mr. Pitts before and after dinner. Mr. Pitts was the keynote speaker, and speaks with the same passion for freedom and equality as he writes.

He is noted as the 2004 Pulitzer Prize Winning columnist.

I was concerned because after I chased him through the casino, he was eyeing me like I was a stalker. I thought maybe he might call security. Gee, I just wanted to tell him that I enjoyed his speech.

The entertainment was outstanding also and introduced as A Night of Divas.

For our pleasure, there were divas a plenty – Barbara Shorts, Troi Becket, Anais St. John, and Charmaine Neville. They were all lovely and in good voice and humor.

The icing on the affair was seeing people that I’ve missed for several years.

Jim Wiltberger was there as well as the Bagneris family which includes GLBT advocate Juan La Fonta. He’s running for Congress. I got to speak with Lou Volz and Frank, and Larry Best, and a dozen more people that I didn’t have the opportunity to speak with last year. It was truly a delightful evening for me. Julie and I agreed that it was the best rubber chicken event we ever attended.

The evening was extended by many of the same people the next afternoon when the Forum held the Annual Student Mixer. This is an event that introduces Gay college students to Gay churches and organizations, both social and political, and businesses. It was also an outstanding party. I got to visit with students from ULL who organized a PFLAG Chapter in their area – Joey, Tray and Taylor. Amanda was also there and she is also an active PFLAG member. Students from all the local Universities were represented.

I didn’t know when I helped set the next date for an event that it fell on the same weekend as the festival in Gretna. On Oct. 3rd, the Church of Christ the Liberator held its second annual Pot-Luck Dinner at Joe Ruffino’s home across the Lake. Joe lives on an acre of beautiful land outside Mandeville in a comfortable home that we all love to visit.

As he did last year, Joe cooked two entrees and church members and guests brought salads, dessert, appetizers, and side dishes. There was so much good food that I started tasting when we arrived at noon and continued until we left at 4:30.

I couldn’t help myself.

From stuffed mushrooms to carrot cake, I ate my way through the event. Joe made a chicken and oyster gumbo that was excellent and a delicious pork loin.

Jeff and Sheldon made a very different cheese with macaroni side dish using not your ordinary cheeses. They used white cheeses, one of which was smoked Gouda.

Not being a cook myself, and wanting to give Ray a break, I bought the carrot cake. That went well with the cheese and

nuts. And when it was all over, Joe treated me to a good cup of coffee. He had earlier treated me with a good beer. It was the first I’d had in almost two years. All in all, I have to say, I enjoyed one great day, and I hope you can all take part with us next year.

Coming up next is the Rodeo at Angola State Prison. During the month of October, rodeos are held each weekend. I just read on FaceBook that Brad Robbert attended recently and I am hoping to enjoy it as much as he did. This is a fund-raiser for the LSGRA (Gay rodeo).

Bull rider Wayne Sheffield introduced me to the Gay rodeo. I remember when he was riding, the church used to pray for him.

I acted as his sponsor or God-mother when he was baptized at Christ the Lib-

erator in the very early 2000s. So I took praying for Wayne seriously. The last time that I know he rode, he had an unfortunate meeting with a bull’s hoof, and decided to retire.

To prepare us for the rodeo, we are riding up on a bus with a bar – cocktails only $2. That should get us in the mood and the ride is three hours. I’ll let you know how much I can drink in three hours. And if I make it to the grandstands to see any of the action. This will be the first live rodeo for Ray and me – no, we’ve never attended a dead one, only ones on TV and films.

So until next time, be safe and ride ‘em, Cowboy(s) (and cowgirls, too, of course).

in the spotlight

by Gary Glitter E-mail: gglitter04@yahoo.com

And Then There Was 2

D

rag Survivor is in it’s 8th week at Oz, and on September 23, there were 3 contestants vying for the supreme quest of the Grand Prize, but this was the Semi-Finals, and they were ready for whatever happens.

Emcee Blanche Debris opened the show with a little number, and then with the help of Persana Shoulders, they brought the contestants, preceeded by Kevin, the Torch Man. The contestants drew their numbers, and it was the start of Famous Diva’s night.

Since there were only 3 Semi-Finalists, they had invited previous “cast-off’s”, and 2 of the Sunday night show girls to fill in. First up, was contestant #1 Tahtiana, doing Diana Ross, then came “cast-off” Felina, doing Brittany Spears, followed by contestant #2 Sable doing Kelly Clarkson, “show girl” Mercedes was Shaka Khan, then contestant #3 Shan’yia did Patty LaBelle, “cast-off” Candi Fox did Annie Lenox, and “show girl” and Entertainer of the Year Coca sang Lady GaGa, live.

Then it was time for the real reason for this whole thing, to see who would be voted off this week. The 3 contestants had their say as to who would go and it ended with 2 votes for Sable, and 1 vote for Tahtiana. Shan’yia was safe. So it was the judges turn and all 3 judges voted for a tie for both, which meant they had to lip synch for their life, and it was decided by Tommy Elias, that this time, the judging would be for the over-all performance, not just for lip synch. And they would do a number chosen by the DJ that they had previously done in a show.

First up was Tahtiana doing Beyonce’s Halo, and then came Sable doing Reba McIntyre’s Fancy. The judges deliberated and then came the moment of truth...Sable took it with, 3 You Go Girl to 1 for Tahtiana. So the Finals would be Shan’yia and Sable. And now everyone waits for the Finals next week, and we’ll see who gets the Big Bucks!!!!!!!!

Two - One = $1,000

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fter two months, (eight long weeks), and finally we’re here to see who will take home the Grand Prize. It has come down to 2 con-

testants who have battled their way to the top and now it comes to the moment of truth as to who is the Real Drag Survivor.

And believe me when I say they were ready to get that “green stuff” for all the hard work, clawing and scratching their way to the top of the list.

So here, on September 30, in a crowded Oz, packed to the rafters, everyone waited taking bets on who the lucky person would be. The judges: Neil, Ashley, and Tonya were ready. Lights, Music, Torch Man, Action - let the lip synch begin!!!

Blanche Debris opened the show with a little song, and as skimpy of an outfit she could find, however, her hair made up for the lack of costume - it was high and wide. (Some sheep is going to want that back for the winter). And not to be out done, Persana Shoulders came out in a rhinestone S&M collar and cuffs, not to mention make-up for days. (She said she looked like she was ready to be laid out in a coffin) Amen, Sister.

It was time for the past “cast-offs” to come out and 6 of them were there to lend their support and perform throughout the show. The two main Survivors were there and they drew their numbers with Sable #1, and Shan’yia #2. While they went to get ready for their first round of Gospel, “castoff” Tyra Van Ryan led off the entertainment, followed by “cast-off” Deanna Nineman. Now for Round 1, Sable came out and gave us her rendition of Gospel, and right behind her was Shan’yia with her rendition. (So far so good) . And once again we have a “cast-off” Candi Fox doing her entertainment, with “cast-off” Carmen Valdez following right behind her. (Both girls, wowing the crowd, like they were still in the running).

Without taking a breathe, we were into Round 2, which was Rock and Roll, and rocking her way to the stage was Sable doing her thing as a Metal Rocker.

Not to be out done Shan’yia brought out all the guns and hit the stage with none other than Tina Turner and strutted and rocked out the crowd. (The judges had a hard one to decide). And the last entertainer, that had to follow all of this, was “cast-off” Mercedes Ellis L’Oreal. And then it was time for all the previous “cast-offs” to come

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ambush

paparazzi

Eagle bartender Brian & Phoenix bartender Chris at Leather Bar of the Year Phoenix

Aletha back slingin’ at Neighborhood Bar of the Year Cafe Lafitte in Exile

A love fest at Big Daddy’s with Wayne & Cutter’s Mac

Pat & Lea cocktailin’ at Big Daddy’s

Karaoke DJ Philip & singer Rikki Gee join Bywater Mike for Monday Karaoke Night at all new Bywater Patio Bar

DB, Therese & Kristie slingin’ cocktails at Show Bar of the Year JohnPaul’s

Rawhide manager Joe gives Lafitte’s DJ Myke 48 licks for his 48th b-day at Rawhide

Glazer’s Ashley gives one of the Cruzan Rum giveaways to Joe at Rawhide’s Bring Your Own Meat Night

Bar baron Mike & bartender Paul set up the Wii Bowling Tournament at 700 Club Bartender Adrian at Dance Bar of the Year Oz

Synchronized for Art in the Hood are Cutter’s bar baron Mac, with bartenders Blake & JR

Cory, Josh & Bartender of the Year Jeff hail from Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Bartenders Justin & Joel join manager Neel (c) at Good Friends Bar

Cutter’s Wii Bowling Team: Jeff, Rene, Blake & Brett

Synchronized at the all new Bywater Patio Bar, bartender Cameron & bar baron Mike

Robert, George & Bear pop in for Wednesday’s Meat Night at Rawhide

Alfred & N’R Peace’s Don pop in for 700 Club’s Wii Bowling Tournament Wednesdays

Chad & Rick join the Wii Bowling Tournament at 700 Club

14 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Nightlife in The Big Easy ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush

Sister Mary Izahor butches it up before Bartender Ringo Thursdays at Tubby’s Golden Lantern

Society Page’s Orlando & Trux pop into all new Bywater Patio Bar for the Monday Night Special white beans & rice with pork chops

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the pink pastor

by Rev. Clinton Crawshaw E-mail: pastor@bigeasymcc.com www.bigeasymcc.com

My Friend The Witch Doctor...

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have got myself involved in a lively worldwide facebook argument after maintaining that Clergy should have more in common with shamans (tribal holy men and women), healers, oracles, high priests and mediums that social workers and academic theologians.

I wasn’t making the statement merely to be controversial; there is one level where I believe it to be very true indeed.

The loss of awe and wonder at the grandeur and mystery of God cannot be covered with wise philosophies or amateur psychology – worship cannot ever be replaced by socialising or theorising.

When we seek as religious people to steal the language of science and the scientific method, we reduce Christianity to the level of an alternative theory of everything, when in fact it is speaking a different language to physicists and biologists.

Much of our religious experience is not communicable in words – it is uniquely personal between the individual and God; Christianity that remembers this, and seeks to provide space for worship and awe, mystery and uncertainty functions as a means of prospering our connection with God. Without the unspeakable and unspoken interaction between the human soul and the unseen God, focussed and in the person of Jesus Christ we are scarcely different to humanists. Under these circumstances the faith is only operating on an intellectual level, and that is the least satisfactory base for what is ultimately incomprehensible.

If we seek to build a church here on this earth then the pursuit of the transcendent, the miraculous and the mysterious – that which escapes explanation and is by its nature not repeatable through experiment but unique to ourselves has to be our foundation and goal.

We understand that humanity craves the transcendent, having bottled itself up in ruinous bondage to mortgages, credit card companies and dreary practicalities we are desperate to leap free of what Aldous Huxley calls ‘our sweating selves’ and bathe in the light of God. Failing this we are all at least desperate to feel a different light to bare bulb of the everyday.

This light is like moonlight; it changes the mundane into the extraordinary and makes everything it touches unearthly and beautiful. People seek it in many different ways – on one level everything from gambling to drink and drugs is an attempt to burst free from the stifling grip of the everyday, but ultimately these things are bankrupt echoes - desperate attempts to peep through the window into the moonlight, for us, we are called to gaze at the moon, and rise toward it in glorious transformation.

Christians are called to accept that the ‘real world’ is not in fact real – when people tell you to ‘wake up to reality’ they usually mean be a slave to the manufactured structures of human greed , fear and envy – to our economic and social system.

The natural world still remains as a reminder that the real world is transcendent, wonderful, beautiful, God infused and created in love. Bathed in grace.

Much of our dismay and confusion as modern Christians stems from a disastrous confusion of mythos (the knowledge of the unseen and spiritual) and logos (the practical knowledge that comes from experiment and observation of physical things).

We are trying to speak in a language not written in words, but inscribed in divine communion upon the human soul. Never apologise for the inability to speak of what you experience in your faith – the language of experiment and scientific fact falls redundant when faced with God. To open ourselves to the awareness of this unseen God we must seek in our faith to strip away the veneer of human dreariness and like the blind, feel the curves of God’s face.

God in not just a larger, more powerful form of ourselves, God is neither male nor female and God is not called God - this is the word we ascribe to the creator and sustainer of the universe. In reality language breaks down right at the point where we start to feel the presence of God, the mysterious anointing that Christians talk of.

St Paul says the Spirit communicates in ‘sighings’ or ‘groanings’ too deep for comprehension.

Unless we can abandon the instinct that says we must codify and pronounce everything of God as if by doing so we own it, the unseen God will always elude us.

Only by accepting that we cannot grasp hold of, or own God can we begin to experience God. Creeds and councils, wordy prayers that enumerate every jot and tittle of orthodoxy are all the suffocating stuff of human ownership. Most churches have at times gone too far down this road at times – philosophising Christianity out of existence – instead of allotting to the things of God all they require to function as-theyare, which is miraculous, supernatural, mythical and largely unable to be adequately expressed in mere words.

Never be afraid to crave, seek and demand the numinous, the other, the awesome and unseen God who suffuses worship, whom we meet in community and in the silence of hearts. The God we do not have to define, indeed The God we cannot, who exists in a cloud of unknowing, where our arrogance and curiosity meet faith and immensity.

We glimpse this unseen God in the glory of a stormy sea, or a star filled night, but we stare directly at this unseen God, and are touched by this unseen God when we worship in humility and openness; that is what we must seek in our services, in our Christianity and in our lives.

The Witch doctor and the Shaman understand more of the human need for transcendence than does the worthy pastor who has explained away the need for us to ever feel mystery or perplexity – who has all the answers and has no room for the unseen God.

in the spotlight ...from12 out and say who they “wanted to win”. One voted for a non-existent person, one for herself, one for whoever wins, and as in the past, one who didn’t understand, voted “off” someone. (Thank God their judging didn’t count) And now it was time for the judges to proclaim who would be the Winner. The remaining 2 contestants were called to the stage for the final time to learn their fate, as Tommy Elias stood by with the prize of $1,000, cash in hand. The judges nervously displayed their You Go Girl or You’re Out for each, and with a score of 3 to 2, the Winner of Drag Survivor was ...Shan’yia. Congratulations!

PS: Did I tell you it started late! (Yes Tommy I had to say it!) PSS: I will say, having watched all of the shows, 9 wks. seemed like forever, all of the girls can be very proud that they all seemed to grow and learn, and each week they all performed better and better. I can only hope that they ALL have come away learning something that they can use to help better their stage persona. Congratulations to all of you. Well done!

Halloween, Coming Up!

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t seems that everyone is getting ready to do something special for this coming Halloween season.

Not only are all the bars planning special treats, but, several of the local businesses are not to be out done. I’ve heard that a new store in the 200 block of Dauphine St. is planning an opening/art expo featuring an

artist that does Victorian Art Forms. The artists name is Zade, and he will be appearing at “OKEREDA”, which is a clothing store by Ty, who makes some very fantastic, “one of a kind” things for day, evening and costumes. This will be on October 29 from 7-?, and will have cocktails, and hors d’oeurves. This is the place to go see what you might be able to get for that halloween outfit, and see some artwork at the same time. Good Luck Ty! And speaking of Halloween, this year, it is my understanding that the Halloween Parade will be held on the weekend before, which is October 24. After last years big entrance into the halloween market, Blaine Kern has decided that with everything that is going on Halloween Weekend, he would put his parade the weekend before in order to have something special for the locals. It is only appropriate that “we” New Orleanians be able to have something for ourselves to honor the occasion. Last years parade was the best I have ever seen and even surpassed any Mardi Gras parade. It was truly spectacular and should not be missed by anyone.

Fortunately, I won’t be moving until after Halloween, so I will be able to partake of this festive time, and put some of my costume pieces to work one last time.

What a way to go, riding out on a broom, just like the witch you knew that I am. haha!!! That’s right, Trick or Treat, Bitches!!!

Once again, I would just like to thank, Rip and Marsha for believing in my work, and to all of you for your kindness, or not!

Gary Glitter signing out for now, but not forever!?!

in the spotlight Mr. USofA 2009 by Nathan Brooks, rlockhartlmt@gmail.com n September 30-October 2, I was honored to be a part of USofA pageantry’s male contest. The two divisions, Mr. and Mr. At Large became the largest contest for male contestants in the country bringing in 18 contestants for Mr. and 16 for Mr. At Large from nine states!

The contest was hosted by Former Miss USofA At Large Kofi and held at Club Crystals in Houston, Texas. Craig Henderson, the national promoter for Mr. USofA, was very pleased to see so many great entertainers and competitors. This years contest was a full 180 degree turn from last year featuring more large production talents with more back up dancers, live singers, and props making it a new era of entertainment! I have never seen such well put together entertainment numbers and different styles in a long time, but this is the USofA system and as Louisiana will see this system is a NEW LEVEL of entertainment which we might not be ready for.

After prelim night on Wednesday all the contestants in Mr. were over worked and the performances were very tight.

Henderson announced at registration that the first night would be points scored and not comparative as in the past. The line up was clear from that point as former national title holders Monty St. James and Simba Hall made their presence known and their experience as well with Monty providing a gospel number sporting over twenty dancers and Simba performing

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live vocals that were unmatched by most chart toppers. Mr. Gay Texas R.K. LaRue brought back his Hairspray number which got him 1st alternate last year.

Thursday was a day of rest for the boys and now time for Mr. USofA at Large.

Samson, the current reigning, showed massive support for both categories of Mr. USofA by answering phone calls, e-mails, text, and even phone calls for not only At Large, but also the regular Mr. system. It was a great sign to see so much support as he handed down his title that night.

Seymour Chilton, was crowned defeating some of the top entertainers in the country.

Friday was THE NIGHT for celebration as Mr. USofA Ram Crawford would bring down the house as he and the 18 contestants performed a huge version of Zoot Suit Riot accompanied by Miss USofA At Large Tajma Hall and Miss USofA Stasha Sanchez and the boys of Mr. USofA At Large. After the performance the top 12 would be announced and the contest would begin again. Fresh start excluding interview which would be the only category brought over from the first night. The contestants were fired up and 9 out of 12 came back with NEW talents with bigger costumes, more dancers, and more exciting dance mixes! Clean and concise with few flaws made me glad I didn’t have to judge this contest. It would come down to the wire as contestants dawned their club wear for comparative judging and the final scores they would receive that night.

As the lights of Houston, Texas came down Craig Henderson had to catch him-

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celebrazzi (celebrations-paparazzi)

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he Krewe of Armeinius hosted the hilarious Project Runway Trash Drag contest at JohnPaul’s in New Orleans. Each contestant had a designer/ dresser who had ten minutes to get them in make-up, another ten minutes to create an evening wear ensemble (taken from a crate with materials) at which point they were judged, then another ten minutes to turn their evening wear into a ball costume which was judged, and then pulled a number to do a random song which was also judged. Grecian Tinker Bell, aka Lords of Leather’s Alan Kelley won the contest with the help of designer/dresser Ken. The event raised funds for the krewe’ 42nd bal masque set for Saturday, February 13, 2010. Visit KreweOfArmeinius.ORG for more info. (Photo: Co-Emcee Blanche Debris, winner Grecian Tinker Bell, designer/dresser Ken, CoEmcee Bianca Del Rio & Captain Bruce Orgeron)

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he Krewe of Petronius presented their Oktoberfest blowout at JohnPaul’s including the Petronius Fraulein Cabaret starring Bitch of the Year Princesse Stephaney which culminated with the Best Creatively Adorned or Naturally Stuffed Lederhosen Contest which was won by Ray who donated his $100 cash winnings back to the krewe. The event raised funds for the krewe’s 49th bal masque set for Sunday, January 24, 2010. (Photo: 2nd Place David, MC Princesse Stephaney, 1st Place Ray, Capt. Bootsie DeVille & 3rd Place Les)

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o-Emcee Persana Shoulders joins Drag Survivor winner Shan’yia Ellis Narcisse, Oz GM Tommy Elias and co-emcee Blanche Debris for the Drag Survivor Finale at Dance Club of the Year Oz in New Orleans. The finale culminated 10 weeks of stiff competition with 10 contestants, one voted off each week, all for the chance to win the $1,000 cash grand prize. The runner-up was Sable Nicole Starr. For more, visit OzNewOrleans.COM.

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ar Baron Mac McAll opens the annual Art in the Hood exhibition featuring works by a multitude of talented artist all benefiting Buzzy’s Boys & Girls during the month of October at Cutter’s in New Orleans. The dinner buffet and auction is set for Saturday, October 24 beginning at 7pm. The all you can eat scrumptious buffet is available for $5 per person. The remaining art work will be sold at auction that evening.

Since 2003, the event has raised over $19,000 to date for the popular AIDS charity.

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ommunity Health Award recipient Heidi Nagele Chapman is joined by husband Michael at the Forum For Equality Acclaim Awards XI at Harrah’s Casino Theatre. This sold out event was not only a celebration of 20 years of service to Louisiana’s LGBT community, it was a chance to recognize a number of individuals for their contributions toward a society free from discrimination. Other recipients included Political Leader, Judge Michael Bagneris; Political Activism, James Wiggins; Media, Leonard Pitts, Jr.; Arts & Entertainment, Ricky Graham; and Chair’s Award, ACLU of Louisiana. For more on the organization and it’s important work, visit ForumForEquality.COM.

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uctioneer Lord Pat joins Lord King Gary Vandeventer, Lord Consort Bruce Orgeron and Captain David Boyd for the Lords of Leather’s Halloween Decorations Auction at JohnPaul’s. The event raised funds for the krewe’s 26th bal masque set for Sunday, February 14, 2010 at the Alario Center in Westwego.

For more information, visit LordsOfLeather.COM.

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snap Co-Emcees Bianca Del Rio & Blanche Debris join Armeinius Capt. Bruce Orgeron for the krewe’s Project Runway Trash Drag contest

Jimmy welcomes guests to Petronius’ Oktoberfest

Petronius Oktoberfest Chicken Dance winner Chessney & Capt. Bootsie DeVille

Entertainer of the Year Ama Rosa sings live for Project Runway Trash Drag

Trash Drag contestant Cave Man Trey

Trash Drag Judges King Amon Ra XLIV Nick Olivares, Lords of Leather Capt.

David Boyd & Queen Amon Ra XLIII Opal Masters

MC Princesse Stephaney & Capt.

Bootsie DeVille headline Petronius Fraulein Cabaret

Former Mr. Louisiana Leather Michael & Mr. Southern Renegades Toby at the Lords’ Halloween Auction

Miss Louisiana Leatherette stars in Petronius Fraulein Cabaret Trash Drag Winner Grecian Tinker Bell Alan

Lord Troy helps King & Queen Armeinius XLI Ricky & Tim with their loot from the Lords’ Halloween Auction

Grecian Tinker Bell Alan crowned Runway Trash Queen joined by designer Ken at the Armeinius contest

Petronius Fraulein Cabaret brought King Cake Queen XVI Tami Tarmac to the stage

Trash Drag contestant Breakfast Mahony Tim

Designer Ama Rosa, contestant Cave Man Trey; dresser Tim, contestant Breakfast Mahony Tim; winner Grecian Tinker Bell Alan & dresser Ken at Armeinius’ Project Runway Trash Drag contest

Devil Kevin helps out with the Lords of Leather Halloween Decorations Auction

King Petronius XLVIII Arthur serves it up with Crown Prince Lee for Petronius’ Oktoberfest

Crown Princess Natasha, Brent & Queen Petronius XLVIII Freddie

Tiffany Holiday joins the Petronius Fraulein Cabaret

JohnPaul’s John, Mr. Southern Renegades Toby, JohnPaul’s Paul & Lord King XXV Gary at the Lords Halloween Auction

20 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Armeinius, Petronius, Lords of Leather @ JohnPaul’s~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Ambush, Tony Leggio

paparazzi

everybody's a critic Let Your Freak Flag Fly!

by Nathan Brooks, rlockhartlmt@gmail.com kay, so I have been spoken to several people and now things are coming as a weird worry to me about our fine little city. Over Southern Decadence we saw everyone in our little area of the world put out the signal of support of the gay community as they flew the rainbow flags outside their place of business but Tuesday morning did you notice as all those nice little businesses took their flags DOWN! Why is is so bad to support our small community or so bad to that the businesses have to take those symbols of support down?

Video that I made of the city showed over 50 businesses that would not regularly fly a rainbow flag flew them and all 50 took them down before the end of the week. I don’t think that it is beyond us as individuals to try to make money off tourists but I do think it is wrong to allow those business to just make money off the gay community when they see fit. I would like to know what you think because this is my opinion of the matter.

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The Levee’ Remembers Southern Decadence

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he Levee’, New Orleans’ parody newspaper mentioned Oz in their recent article about Southern Decadence describing what seems to be Persana and Bianca. The article was about a preacher who just knows too much about the cultured holiday and walks into Oz saying “The Devil is Here! Here on Earth! And he is dwelling at this moment on stage at Oz, not three blocks from here, attempting to seduce Gods children with his tight

mr. gay usofa ...from 16 self before crying reminding all the contestants that they have a special place in his heart and thanked them and Ram for a great year. He spoke about the worse thing in pageantry being that there could only be one winner; however no one is ever a loser. Ram did his final walk to a thunderous appreciation fit for a king and then the moment of truth came as Monty St. James was named 1st Alternate and the only man standing Simba Hall would be crowned the 2nd ever Mr. USofA. Those are the details. Now here is the editorial. As a contestant and reading over my sheets from the pageant I am very satisfied. I learned a lot from my experience and met some wonderful people. I would like to thank everyone who made it possible Persana Shoulders, Oz night club, the Bourbon Pub, the Carnival Kings, my lovely dancers, Tamaya Watson, Lyric and Just’on, my family and friends, Just Us Boys Magazine, the entertainers at my benefit show, my fairy godfather Gary Glitter, Carl Marks designs, and A-Okay for my club wear, and all those who sent wonderful text, e-mails, and phone calls when I needed them most. This trip wasn’t the best due to some issues I had with members of my team but next year will be even better as i become better prepared and ready for what I know the contest is. I hope we can work to bring this type of entertainment to Louisiana and I look forward to speaking to those male entertainers looking to get involved in this system. I finished prelim night in 16th place and am just proud I could be brought to the dance!

leather slacks and sinful unbuttoned blouse and that unspeakable crimson Louis Vuitton Damier stole.” Also the preacher was seen at the Corner Pocket vowing to “convert” someone! Sounds like my usual Friday night! I just thought I would bring this forward and thank

Don't be left out! of the big

Halloween Ambush Deadline: Tuesday, October 20

504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

those wonderful minds at the Levee' and writer Damian Tatum for the wonderful article that filled me with a funny feeling in my tummy!

Cyber-Queen!

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o tired of standing in front of judges and being nervous?

Tired of dressing rooms full of nasty queens awaiting you to fail? Now you can enter a pageant ON-LINE! That’s right! MissGayWorldWideWeb.com has released the first Miss pageant ON-LINE! The prize package includes over $2,500 CASH! Join the site today for free and enter to win the title that everyone is looking forward to. If not, it was just something better to do than be on Facebook all day plowing farms on farmville!

For more details on this pageant and the Miss, Miss At Large, and Male Impersonator divisions, please visit www.usofacomputers.com.

Mr. & Miss Krewe of Divas

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aton Rouge, LA - An annual tradition continues in Baton Rouge as on Friday, November 13 at Splash night club the Krewe of Divas will have their Mr. and Miss Diva Pageant. The theme will be Rock Star Divas!

Anyone is eligible to compete as long as you are able to understand and comply with the requirements of the titles. As most pageants they will be celebrating the reigns of their Miss Diva Mary Jane Sparxx and Mr. Diva Landon Price, who have had a great year as title holders. Any and all information including times, requirements, categories, etc. can be found on their web site at www.kreweofdivas.com.

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out & about B-Bob’s 17th Anniversary Extravaganza Oct. 16-18

Halloween Blowout Set for Club Evolution in Foley

James Birthday Bash

Surprise! Birthday Boy Jerry @ B-Bob’s

Venus Shante’ Da Viss & Lady Jackie from Montgomery

alabama

paparazzi

Venus Shante’ Da Viss, Miss USofA Alabama Tiffany Racheals & Andrew join Thursday’s College Night @ B-Bob’s Jerry Ehlen gets his 50th birthday cake @ B-Bob’s

Eris after the show

Taylor & Micheal cocktailin’ @ B-Bob’s

Bar manager Bob putting the final touches on the b-day feast @ B-Bob’s

B-Bob’s bar baron Jerry & show director Miss Cie celebrate B-Bob’s being voted Best Dance & Show Bar of the South

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ar baron PR Rivera will host Club Evolution's first Halloween blowout on Saturday, October 31 in Foley, Alabama. Opening at 9pm with DJ Chiba, the Costume Contest with $500 in cash and prizes will be presented by headliner Venus Shante' Da Viss at 2am. The evening also features a performance by Sparkles. For more visit ClubEvolutionFoley.COM.

Emerald City Presents Cursed on Halloween

B-Bob’s bar baron Jerry celebrates his 50th b-day with life partner Phillip Judson after hours at Gabbies

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ursed is the big night for Halloween in Pensacola, Florida at Emerald City on Saturday, October 31 with doors opening at 9pm.

The entire Hellish Club will be open for you to stalk your prey. With over $1,000 in cash and prizes for the Creepy Costume Contest, you can compete for Best Drag, Best Individual and Best Group. The 12midnight contest will be emceed by Lauren Mitchell and Ebony Sinclair. And don't forget the bone grinding beats of DJ Dwight Barkley for your dancing pleasure. For more, visit EmeraldCityPensacola.COM.

Reach the Market Ambush 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

The tear of a clown, Judson, upstairs @ B-Bob’s

Venus Shante’ Da Viss headlines @ B-Bob’s in Mobile & Club Evolution in Foley

DJ Chromatic from Mobile & DJ of the Year Tim Pflueger from New Orleans

Miss Cie celebrates Jennifer’s birthday @ B-Bob’s

24 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Birthdays, Nightlife, Entertainment ~ Foley & Mobile, Alabama ~ Photos by Cieanne & John, DJ Chromatic

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repare yourself for B-Bob’s most extravagant weekend yet celebrating the club's 17th Anniversary and the start of its 18th year in Mobile, Alabama October 16-18. The schedule for the weekend includes: Friday, October 16, 8:30pm: JOSH ZUCKERMAN - You saw him on the Mobile Alabama Pride Stage in Bienville Square!

11:30pm: Multi-platinum singing sensations EXPOSE’ - They were the first group to have four top ten hits on the [https://app.icontact.com/wiki/ Billboard_Hot_100] Billboard Hot 100 chart from their debut album! Plus, 10 top 10 hits! Admission is $10 before 10pm and $12 thereafter.

Saturday, October 17, 8pm: Mobile favorite KRISTY LEE - Belting out her ballads and rock n’ roll songs! KRISTY is a regular here on Joe Cain Sunday!

10-11pm: A special cocktail “Thank You” from Jerry and the Staff of B-Bob’s!

Midnight: Show featuring cast members Miss Cie and Venus Shante’ Da Viss along with special guest former Miss Gay America Nicole DuBois and more... Admission is $7 with proceeds going to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation.

Sunday, October 18, 5pm: ELAINE PETTY - Elaine has a lot of Rock-a-billy in her soulful blend of music! You can see Elaine playing the various venues along Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and at the Flora-Bama! Sit back and enjoy the show with $2 well drinks and $4 Jumbo Bloody Mary’s!

9pm: “So You Think You Can DRAG” contest semi-finals! Admission is $5.

For more visit B-Bobs.COM.

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 25

26 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

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acadiana

paparazzi

Mark always having a gay ole time @ Sound Factory

Justin takes time from his bar to take a pic @ Jules Downtown

And the crowd looks on for their photo opp @ Jules Downtown

The men look on with smiles on their faces @ Jules Downtown SMILE... @ Sound Factory

Let’s not forget the divas on the dance floor @ Jules Downtown

DJ Huggies, Sound Factory’s very own Resident DJ

Papa...razzi @ Jules Downtown And the Lady of the night @ Sound Factory This is the most festive of all every time @ Sound Factory

These two divas were caught takin’ a break from the dance floor @ Sound Factory

They passed out Bear kisses instead of hugs, lol, @ Sound Factory

And of course the rest have joined in with John @ Sound Factory

And of course Tuantie with her little niece @ Sound Factory

And they stop dancing to take a pic @ Jules Downtown

Becca shows these ladies who's are bigger @ Jules Downtown

...Follow you until you love me... @ Jules Downtown

DJ Kyle D & DJ Ryan Powell workin’ the crowd out @ Jules Downtown

Joe spots the camera from across the room, got to love him @ Jules Downtown

28 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Festive, Kisses, Smile ~ Lafayette, Louisiana ~ Photos by Chris Perkins

John enjoyin’ the night with his SBB @ Sound Factory

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 29

hot tails of red stick

by Brad Benedict E-mail: bradhottails@hotmail.com

Out West

L

ast time, I discussed with you the bountiful beauty and grace of that phenomenal example of young manhood, the gorgeous Casey.

This week, I’d like to return and discuss the other phases of the great vacation that Kevin and I enjoyed in San Francisco and up into the mountains of the Sonoma Valley region.

Even though I suffered the beginning of a bad sinus infection, I still enjoyed every minute of this trip. It was my 9th or 10th time out there to buy my Christmas presents and ship back wine that is just not available anywhere else. I do wish it were different here in Louisiana. I feel as if I’m being told what kind of wine I can drink, and I can assure you that I don’t particularly like this. Therefore, I just fly out, pack my wine from the Valley of the Moon and Kenwood wineries, and just trust my packing to allow me full benefits of those acquisitions when I return to the capital city.

This year, all went well, and in addition to all this, I think we both accomplished what we set out to do. Kevin went one way. I went the other. I just didn’t feel up to bird watching like we did in Arizona last year. Instead, I just visited old friends, former places of business that I like, and I came away with a suitcase full of gifts. It was just nice sitting at Spike’s Coffees and Teas, enjoying my breakfast food and coffee, enjoying the “wonderful” sights of other customers, and then heading out for my days of being a good boy and staying out of trouble.

Spike’s in the Castro has always been my favorite coffee shop in San Francisco.

Of course, that young stud that waited on me was a definite and positive force to start out my day. I always did have a warm spot in my heart for redheads, and this military style haircut was just perfect for this youngster. Those eyes were great assets too as well as that trim frame that held those jeans ever so tightly across his rear. My goodness!

I also have to mention Mikey too. He was working at the Human Rights Campaign store on the corner and down from Spike’s. I bought several things here to show my support, and I really found him to be helpful and enthusiastic about his work.

I also did some shopping at Under One Roof, a really nice business with volunteer employees selling items donated to them by major businesses. Both stores had items of interest, so I didn’t have to go very far to get any other gifts. Also across from Spike’s is The Tibet Shop, where I buy so many of my gifts and personal items each year. The owner has been a friend of mine for many years, and I always enjoy my time with him and supporting all things Tibetan. I decided to pass on attending the movie at the Castro Theater. It just wasn’t something I wanted to see.

I was shocked when my friend told me about the Chinese delegation that was in San Francisco recently and stopped by for a visit. They told him it was disgraceful for him to be operating a store like this.

They informed him that China brought the Tibetans out of poverty and into prosperity, and he needed to close up and quit his work and support of the Dalai Lama. That was when he asked them very nicely to exit his shop and not come back. It was all he could do to keep his cool. It took a lot of strength for him to refrain from language that would have shocked the faint of heart.

In the meantime, the two Kevins – my friend Kevin and his friend Kevin – were off into the countryside to seek out new birds for viewing. Kevin was thrilled to see an eagle – not the Bald Eagle – which he had never had the chance to observe before.

This went on for two full days. They did birds. I did things in the Castro and along Market Street. I even made a pass by the Eagle, my favorite leather bar in the city.

We did go together to the Charles Schultz Museum in Santa Rosa, and both of us enjoyed the view from Twin Peaks.

This allows you to see the magnificent view of San Francisco from the Golden Gate Bridge on the left, to the city in the distance, down onto the Castro, and then all the way around to South San Francisco and the airport, a beautiful view of the bay area. This has got to be one of the most spectacular views that I have ever experienced. The temperatures were just right.

I’ve been on Twin Peaks when it was below freezing, and that is a miserable, yet memorable, experience too. I guess our other thing together, besides some good restaurants, was the visit to Mr. S Leather Shop. And it was worth it just to get to talk to someone that could easily be the best looking leather stud I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen quite a few. My goodness! I wanted to stay there all day and experience all the wonders of this world of leather beauty. It would have been a pleasure undressing him.

After all the arboretum visits, taking pictures of the beauty of this great city, and the wonderful visits with friends, it was time to jet back to the capital city. Oh, well!

When my wine runs out, I’ll just go back and buy some more. It is a great excuse to visit my favorite city outside of New Orleans.

Down South

I

t is hard for me to keep up with another Kevin, this one being my New Orleans friend. He is always on the go, but I get daily updates on Facebook. Even though I just don’t have time to respond to all my contacts, I do check at least once each day to see what is happening with friends. I have to admit that I don’t post that much. At the same time, I think other people post too much.

However, like any e-mail, I either hit the delete button or just ignore the post completely. I always take note of what Kevin is up to.

I also keep up with Sharie in this way too. We haven’t seen each other in quite some time, but this is the method of keeping up with things. We both have been wondering what happened to Rob after he moved to Denver. I know he went on a strict

workout routine, got a really great body, and posed nude in one of the muscle groups, but I can’t recall his other name or the group he was with. He used to live in Spanish Town, and he was really a nice guy. Sharie came out to him years ago, and one of my favorite memories of him was on the Ambush balcony on Mardi Gras day several years ago.

Hollywood is coming to our part of town. One of the historic homes a block away from here is the setting for some filming of a movie with Cuba Gooding Jr. The last time I noticed filming here was in this house on Spanish Town Road. I don’t know what that was all about. The cameras were outside and aimed through the window. It was a little unusual so I have no idea what was going on inside.

Robert and Brandon did another quick trip recently – to Charleston. They are constantly on the go but have to work these trips around Robert’s schedule with his art classes at LSU. He is one talented

youngster, and you can tell that by looking at what he and Brandon have accomplished since they bought this old historic home on Bungalow Lane.

John and Phil were off for the weekend over in the Toledo Bend area. They had a family-type gathering over there, and from what I hear, a good time was had by all. It’s always nice to hear about things over in their neck of the woods. They make sweet music together.

BCBoy keeps in touch with me. I wanted him to go to Evita with me last week, but he couldn’t make it. Work duties have a way of altering your schedule for fun and games. I do look forward to our next encounter. Let’s make it soon, sweetie.

And I do need to check in on my Colla boy too. Wow! He has such a fantastic tattoo!

Tatia continues to be the “karaoke queen” of Red Stick. This wonderful lady has a beautiful voice and is just one of the [continued on 33]

allons acadiana

by Chris Perkins, Lafayette, Louisiana E-mail: keebler_6984@yahoo.com

S

o with only three weeks left till All Hallows Eve, hopefully we have at least begun to gather what we need to have the best costume around. And you definitely will need it!

Get Your Jules On!

T

hat's right, Jules Downtown is off and running with a great line-up sure to please everyone out there. Halloween weekend kicks off here on Friday with Kindred Soulz live beginning at 9pm. On Saturday, it's the club's big Halloween party. Make sure and come dressed to impress to see what they have in store for us. Plus on both Friday and Saturday you'll find hot male strippers on the bar.

But before the big weekend you can catch DJ Kyle mixing it up for you October 16, and DJ Cory in the House October 17.

Saint Cecilia is live starting at 9pm October 23 followed at midnight with Valarie Sugarbaker and friends putting on one of her famous drag shows. And on October 24, DJ Kyle will be bringing down the house. It has something for everyone.

Jules is open Wednesday-Friday 7pm-2am, and Saturday 8pm-2am.

Ring in 14 Fab Years at Sound Factory

W

ith costume contest and many fabulous prizes to be won, Sound Factory will definitely be the place to be as they ring in 14 fabulous years of operation under the same name and owner. They have had many changes in the past years and many within the past few months, and in case that wasn’t enough, hang on for what they have in store for you in the next few months.

They are unstoppable right now and unwilling to slow down for any reason. So Halloween Night will be one incredible night at Sound Factory.

In October, we not only gear up for Halloween, we also celebrate Gay History

Month, and if you were at Sound Factory this past Saturday, then you witnessed over one hundred years of drag experience on one stage as they brought in the Fab Five and Still Alive, five drag queens that have been performing and entertaining for twenty years and more. Just everything they have going on this month is in some way touching into our past. Turnabout this Saturday has been happening for years now and just an array of many other wonderful things. Check out their websites for more up to date information on what is happening and stop by and pay them a visit downtown. They are open seven days a week, and always have something going on sure to please you, from drink specials to Karaoke, to drag shows to themed nights that no matter what your desire is, you are bound to have a marvelous time there and will keep you wanting more.

I would like to get off track right now, and send a BIG shout out to Macky and Chris for all the hard work, long hours and dedication that they have put in and without fail, are still just as pumped up as they were the first month. They do realize it is a hard job they have taken on, but with their never ending smiles, they push on like it just falls in place, and at times it does just fall in place for them. But with an excellent staff of bartenders, an amazing DJ, and many more people that often go unmentioned and under appreciated for their part in helping to make Sound Factory the place to be and better and better each and every day the doors open. So I have given my shout out to the two guys that day in and day out work hard to keep you guys coming back, so now for all those reading, next time you see them, let them know what you think of the hard work they put in for you!!

Until next time, have a blast, be safe and keep your eyes open for that camera shot, you never know when I will be right around the corner. If you haven’t yet started then get to it, only three more Saturdays left till Halloween.

30 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

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The two bird watching Kevins

Mr. LSGRA 2009 Denny with LSGRA Pres. Lance

Enjoying a night out The Rawhide stud and Guy

Karaoke time at George’s

Trio of handsome studs Andy and Philip

The Divas Luther, Chansley and Jeremy

Cody and Philip Bar barons Richard and Cory

Nicole with a handsome stud Out for a night on the town

All smiles at George’s

Having fun at George’s

Richard with Mr. LSGRA 2009 Denny

Damon at the Charles Shultz Museum

Richard with Cody King

Kevin at Twin Peaks lookout point

32 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Cowboys, Divas, Karaoke ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana ~ Photos by Brad Benedict

Anthony and Jesse

red stick paparazzi

hot tails of red stick ...from 30 nicest people you could ever meet. I always enjoy my time with her. Of course, Cody King is the “karaoke king.”

I noted that Richie had surgery recently. He’s okay, and this is good. This is one of the most beautiful guys in Baton Rouge. He is so good-looking that he makes you long to buy a home from him.

Of course, this helps when you are a real estate agent. And you ought to see him in leather. Wow! I’d like to use him as a lollipop and give him a tongue bath.

Yummy! We need to get together at Strand’s soon.

I hadn’t seen Lance (not the Splash or New Orleans varieties) lately and was so happy to see him as a performer in Evita.

He has a great voice too. One of the first times I ever saw him was at Rip and Marsha’s place on Bourbon Street. It was one of our many Mardi Gras gatherings, and there was Lance and his other half. I’ll never forget it – and have the pictures to prove it. Lance was dressed as “the little drummer boy,” or character similar to this.

That hat, red jacket, and (almost) seethrough white pants left little to the imagination. I fell in lust again that day and will always recall this fondly.

Jeannie gave everyone a scare last week. She ended up in the hospital. The last report I got from Joy at Hound Dogs

Reach the Market

Best Distribution Points

Ambush 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com

was that she was out of the hospital and doing okay. She really needs to gain some weight and has vowed to stop smoking – and that is a good thing. I wish her well.

David was finished with his work when I got to Splash last week to deliver the papers, so I didn’t get to catch up on the latest scoop there. I need to take that boy out to din-din and catch up on things.

Andy, over at George’s, is always so nice to be around. He is another one that I need to sit down with. I keep up with the latest on Richard through him, Luther, and Chansley. I haven’t run into or talked with Guy for quite some time.

I have TTT all revved up and wanting to go to San Francisco. He wants to check out Casey. Well, who wouldn’t? In fact, he might be the excuse I need to make another trip out there – to see the Christmas decorations? Why not?

Little Corey has been having a blast too. That boy has been traveling with the LSU football guys. He is just one of the most avid of all Tiger fans I’ve ever known.

I keep getting invitations to the tailgate affairs, but I’m afraid if I ever got on campus, I wouldn’t be able to get off and back home until the game was completed. I do appreciate this special friend. He just happens to be one of the best you will find anywhere.

I keep hoping I can get back to Fort Worth and to one of the TCU games. In case you didn’t know it, I’m a TCU Horned Frog. Purple, White, Frogs Fight! Those were great days, good times. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I do appreciate the education I received there. I did the whole thing – got involved in all campus activities – but don’t get back out there that much

anymore. I keep up with everyone by way of the TCU Magazine, and they are going to feature me and my library donation in an upcoming issue. Maybe I’ll hear from some of my old friends – fraternity buddies, sorority friends. Time has a way of separating you, and it was only recently that I made contact again with my college roommate, and this was when the Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter started updating and trying to locate graduates.

I’m also looking forward, as are many others, to the shows that will be coming to the Mahalia Jackson Theater in New Orleans. I hope that someday they will restore the Saenger Theater to its previous beauty, but at least we can see a little of Broadway at this location this year and the first part of next. I love to attend the theater and am happy to support the Baton Rouge Little Theater.

I do recall years ago when I was working out of a Pennsylvania office that I missed a great opportunity of going into New York City. It was actually in Philadelphia that I really missed out on a great show. It was Katherine Hepburn in a play there, but I couldn’t get tickets or stay over and had to get back to my office over near Hershey. I did manage to take in a Pacino movie at one of the theaters there, but most of my work was with the state government in Harrisburg, so Philadelphia was on the far eastern edge of my territory. I would like to go back some day just to visit Hershey, Pennsylvania. They have one of the best amusement parks in the country, and I have so many pleasant memories from there.

The latest front to come through here really took its toll on the booths at Hilltop

Arboretum. Exhibitors had to close early. I didn’t let the rain stop me. In fact, I was there checking out all the plants that I needed for my garden. Some people would say that I don’t need anything else, but I learned a long time ago that gardening was one of my passions. I love to do this kind of work. It’s relaxing, and I am rewarded with beautiful blooms from all kinds of plants each month of the year.

I received an e-mail from Sam last week. I rooted some Angel Trumpets for him and even planted them in his garden.

He usually kills plants, but for some reason, he was able to keep these alive and was bragging about how beautiful they were. Most people say they can’t raise plants, but if they just take the same care of them that they do their pets, their gardens would grow and prosper. It takes time to look after and care for them, but the rewards are spectacular displays of colors that bring endless hours of pleasure to the owners – and to the neighborhood if the plants are up front and in full view. I prefer both the up front and the hidden garden – open for everyone to see up front and hidden from view and very private in the back garden behind a high fence.

Spanish Town, like the French Quarter, has lots of hidden gardens. Being able to view some of them is a unique experience in itself. I love to wander around doing pictures of people, places, and things. It is another way that I record memories.

Be sure to keep your cameras close.

You never know when you will see something outstanding to photograph. It is a great life. Don’t let it slip away. Record it, and keep enjoying it.

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 33

alexandria

trodding the boards

paparazzi

by Brian Sands

E-mail: bsnola2@hotmail.com

I

ncest, AIDS, alcoholism, unemployment, rabbits with cervical cancer, and interracial man-on-man kissing all in a beauty parlor in Slidell?!

Yes indeed. All that, and more, were part of Cutting Edge Productions’ triumphant presentation of Pterodactyls.

Nicky Silver’s scathing comedy about the looming extinction of a particular stratum of humanity and its rarefied lifestyle begins with a fractured history lesson and continues as the upper class Duncans replace their recently departed maid with their daughter’s fiancé who then falls in love with their asymptomatic AIDS-afflicted son. Marrying the tragic with the absurdly comic, Silver mixes equal portions of Albee, Orton, Durang and a pinch of Almodovar, and offers line after great line of arch, snappy dialog that has not dated since its 1994 off-Broadway premiere; even the pedophiliac priest jokes, one must remember, were written well before all the Church scandals broke.

Thus we get a vision of Heaven where homosexuals sit around with Monty Clift and George Cukor. A description of life’s finer things being “Godiva chocolates and prescription pills.” And a father/son conversation that goes ”How did you get it [AIDS]?” ”I f**k men.” ”Why?” asked partly incredulously, partly by way of seeking comprehension.

If, by the end, Pterodactyls is almost too smart and too much for its own good— did we really need the lesbian monolog?—it has taken us there via a route loaded with wonderful verbal and visual jokes that reveal a singular empathetic view of mankind and all our heartbreaking foibles.

Pterodactyls is not fool proof. I would hate to have to sit through a lousy production of it. But director Gary Mendoza got everything right (the familial relationships, the dialog’s rhythms, etc.) with a cast including two high school students who, if slightly too young for their roles, rose to the challenge of this difficult material.

As the truculent son, Alex Lemonier remained stoical as he assembled a miniature Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in his parents’ living room and alienated the affections of his sister’s husband-to-be. If his Todd could have been a bit more flamboyant or theatrical, this was a convincing performance in which Lemonier never resorted to merely camping it up.

As the self-effacing daughter who suffers the ultimate indignity of losing her fiancé to her brother, the winsome CC Falcon, tossing off such lines as “My skin is too tight,” managed to convey with assurance the predicament of the grown child to whom no one pays attention until it’s too late. David Jacobs, though not to the manor born, assuredly bridged the gap between being an everyman of the upper crust and a repugnant, homophobic, incestuous paterfamilia.

Seemingly channeling Megan

Mullally’s Karen Walker but with an icy hauteur, Jane McNulty was flawless in a bravura turn as the shallow, self-medicating mother who is “most alive when planning parties.”

Mendoza’s brave decision to have a black actor play Tommy, the fiancé who winds up in a maid’s outfit, added a whole other dimension to the family dynamics and Silver’s social commentary. This was met by an equally brave and outstanding portrayal by Sam Henry. Having thus far appeared just in musicals and, like Lemonier, a high school student, Henry delivered Silver’s florid, stylized dialog with aplomb. With just a little more polishing, I suspect he would excel in such Orton classics as Entertaining Mr. Sloane and What the Butler Saw. For a small, off-the-beaten-path theater (working in a beauty salon, no less!) to present the regional premiere of this important work would be accomplishment enough. To do it as magnificently as Cutting Edge did, is an achievement that all the theater companies on the South Shore could take a lesson from.

Lucinda looking fab!

Olympus’s new hot DJ... DJ Cutt Nutt

Joey with his Madonna look

Lady Gaga in the House

The Piano Lesson at The Anthony Bean Community Theater

F

eaturing possibly the wildest ending of any major modern play, August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson is a family drama, a mystery, a ghost story and a history lesson. If one wishes someone had forced Wilson to edit some overlong passages and clarify knotty plot points, once he gets down to business in Act Two, Piano Lesson blossoms into a compelling, vital tale worthy of the Pulitzer Prize it received in 1990.

The plot is fairly simple: Boy Willie arrives in Pittsburgh from Mississippi and hopes to persuade his sister Bernice to sell a little-used family piano that reflects a tortuous and torturous history so he can use the money to buy land back down South. By the end, Wilson has well-demonstrated the themes that hang over his “Pittsburgh Cycle,” how one must acknowledge one’s past and learn to sing one’s own song.

On John Grimsley’s period (1936) perfect set, Director Anthony Bean did a skillful job of balancing the script’s realistic with its supernatural elements and found comedy in such quotidian chores as a mother styling her daughter’s hair.

Though he can be faulted for a seemingly endless, static section during which some characters just sat at a table and talked (and talked), when they finally broke into a spontaneous rhythmic song, like the sisters in Dancing at Lughnasa, Bean conjured the expressivity of their feelings better than a thousand words could do.

Veteran Wilson interpreters Brittney James, Donald Lewis, Jr., and Will Williams were, respectively, passionate, resolute, and level-headed, and all were excellent as always. Harold X Evans was like[continued on 43]

Big Pimpin’ DeLorean!!!

The Divine Miss Gia

Marsheya goes blonde Miss Maxi Lamonte

Bambi, Eric & Miss Gia

Lesbians gone bad!!!

34 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Hot, Fab, Bad @ Olympus ~ Alexandria, Louisiana

Pterodactyls at Attractions Salon

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 35

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bars Mobile, AL [251] B-BOB'S DOWNTOWN, 213 Conti St., 433.2262, b-bobs.com GABRIEL'S DOWNTOWN, 55 South Joachim St., 432.4900, gabrielsdowntown.com Foley, AL [251] CLUB EVOLUTION, 8380 Highway 59, 251.943.5557, myspace.com/ evolutionclubdance1 Pensacola, FL [850] EMERALD CITY, 408 E. Wright St., 433.9491, EmeraldCityPensacola.COM THE ROUNDUP, 560 East Heinberg St., 433.8482 Alexandria, LA [318] OLYMPUS BAR, 4003 MacArthur Dr., 442.6735, OlympusBar.COM Baton Rouge, LA [225] GEORGE'S, 860 St. Louis, 387.9798, GeorgesPlaceBR.COM HOUND DOGS, 668 Main St., 344.0807 SPLASH, 2183 Highland Road, 242.9491, splashbr.com Lafayette, LA [337] BACK SIDE, 209 Jefferson St., 269.0430

JULES DOWNTOWN, 533 Jefferson, 264.8000 THE SOUND FACTORY, 209 Jefferson St., 269.6011 Lake Charles, LA [337] CRYSTAL'S, 112 W. Broad, 433.5457 Metairie, LA [504] 4-SEASONS / PATIO BAR, 3229 N. Causeway, 832.0659, www.4seasonsno.com BYWATER PATIO BAR, 3162 Dauphine St., 944.4445 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 PHARE, 523 Gravier St.

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 [is2109] GUY NEXT DOOR - WM avail for full body rubdowns starting @ $60 for Fr Qutr area. All other areas, add'l fee. 24 hrs. Out calls only, 616.334.1432 [is2109]

bookstores 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

GayPensacola.COM June 3-6, 2010, One Mighty Weekend,. Orlando, Florida, sponsored by Ambush, OneMightyWeekend.COM Sept. 1-6, 2010, 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

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

erotica SYKCOR EROTICA, 225.933.0686, SykcorErotica.COM, sykcorerotica@aol.com

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

for rent New Orleans, LA [504] FOR RENT: 1 bdrm apartment on Esplanade Ave, furn kitchen, upper, balcony $850/ mo+dep; 1 bdrm luxury apt on Canal Blvd, furn kitch, w/d, ctrl air, $995/mo+dep; 2 bdrm ½ shotgun double near Delgado furn kit, w/d hookups, $1,000/mo +dep. 220.2736 or 250.6452 [is2209]

galleries New Orleans, LA [504] FAB - Faubourg Marigny Art & Books, 600 Frenchmen St., 947.3700

cable shows

gardening/landscaping

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

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

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

chiropractic New Orleans, LA [504] DR. MICHAEL LECHLEITER, D.C., St. Charles Chiropractic, 1529 Jackson Ave., 566.1833 [is2209]

circuit/events 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,

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] MOMS MINI MART, 902 Poydras, 596.2223 QUARTERMASTER DELI, THE NELLIE DELI, 1100 Bourbon, 529.1416 VERTI MART, 1201 Royal St., 525.4767

36 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

hair salons

laundries

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 Bienville St., 522.3318, ofadeansalonspa.com SALON D'MALTA, 1233 Decatur St., 565.5555, salondmalta.com

New Orleans, LA [504] RALPH'S QUARTER LAUNDERETTE & DRY CLEANING, 1101 Bourbon St., 522.9274 WASHING WELL LaunDRYteria since 1949, City Wide Pick-up, Fluff Dry or Finished, 1 Hour Service, 841 Bourbon St., 523.9955 or 525.3983 [is2009]

household/domestic help New Orleans, LA MALE AVAILABLE for house cleaning, cooking, senior sitting, companion, aide, etc. Ten years experience as certified nursing assistant. References available. 616.334.1432 [is2109]

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. [0810] 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] SUPER 8, 6322 Chef Menteur Hwy., 504.241.5650, 800.800.8000. Minutes from the French Quarter, the hotel offers free continental breakfast, covered parking, high speed wireless internet, local calls, guest laundry, smoking and non smoking rooms, outdoor pool, mini fridge, microwave on request, and independent shuttle company.

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

massage New Orleans, LA [504] 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 Orleans Guide, Official Gulf South Guide, Official Southern Decadence Guide, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137, 522.8049, AmbushMag.COM; email:

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 37

marsha@ripandmarsha.com AMBUSHonLINE, 828-A Bourbon St., 70116-3137; 522.8049, ambushonline.com, email: marsha@ripandmarsha.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 available, 24/7, 504.756.9443 [is2109]

museum/arts Baton Rouge, LA [225] LOUISIANAARTS AND SCIENCE CENTER / RIVERSIDE MUSEUM, 100 S. River Road, 344.5272 LOUISIANA GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 1001 Capitol Access Rd., 342.5855 LOUISIANA STATEARCHIVES, 3851 Essen Ln. LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL, State Capitol Dr. LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HILLTOP ARBORETUM, 11855 Highland Rd., 767.6916 LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY RURAL LIFE MUSEUM, I-10 at Essen Lane, 765.2437 LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE and MUSEUM OF GEOSCIENCE, LSU Campus, 388.2855 MAGNOLIA MOUND PLANTATION, 2161 Nicholson Dr., 343.4955 OLD ARSENAL MUSEUM, State Capitol Complex, 342.0401 OLD BOGAN FIRE STATION, 427 Laurel St., 344.8558 OLD GOVERNOR'S MANSION, 502 North Blvd., 344.5272 OLD PENTAGON BARRACKS, State Capitol Dr. at River Road, 342.1866 OLD STATE CAPITOL, 100 North Blvd. at River Road, 342.0500 or 342.4479 USS KIDD/NAUTICAL HISTORICAL CENTER, Government St. at River Rd., 342.1942 New Orleans, LA [504] BEAUREGARD-KEYES HOUSE, 1113 Chartres, 523.7257, Mon-Sat 10am-3pm CABILDO, 701 Chartres, Jackson Square, Tues-Sun 10am-5pm CAC [Contemporary Arts Center], 900 Camp St., 528.3805, cacno.org EDGAR DEGAS HISTORIC HOME, 2306 Esplanade Avenue, tours by appointment: 504.821.5009, the house tour lasts one hour, is led by a great-grand-niece of Degas, and includes the award-winning documentary video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn 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 OF APOLLO / LAFAYETTE, PO Box 53251, 70505 LEAGUE FOR EQUALITY, PO Box 53425, 70505 PFLAG/LAFAYETTE, PO Box 31078, 70503 ROYAL ORDER OF UNICORN, PO Box 3985, 70502 Monroe, LA [318] GO CARE 2121 Justice, 71201, 325.1092 New Orleans, LA [504]

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 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.COM FOUNDATION FOR MACRO BIOTIC WAY, enjoy-life.com

FRIDAYNIGHT BEFORE MARDI GRAS (FNBMG), PO Box 791376, New Orleans, LA 70179-1376; 733.3311, fridaynightbeforemardigras.com, fnbmg@cox.net 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/ambush 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, dispos-

38 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

als, 296.6865

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

real estate agents New Orleans, LA [504] JUDY FISHER, INC. REALTORS, Agent Mary Lind, 874.4905, marylind2020@gmail.com PRUDENTIAL GARDNER REALTORS, Agent Brett A. Rector, Cell: 453.2277, Office: 861.6400, brettinla@aol.com

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 Embers Original Bourbon House, 700 Bourbon, 523.1485 Krystal, 116 Bourbon at Canal, 523.4030 La Peniche, 1940 Dauphine St., 943.1460 Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, 95 French Market Pl., 522.9500 Maximo's Italian Grill, 1117 Decatur St., 586.8883, MaximosGrill.COM Mona Lisa Restaurant, 1212 Royal St., 522.6746 Orleans Grapevine Wine & Bar Bistro, 720 Orleans The Pelican Club, 312 Exchange Alley, 523.1504, PelicanClub.COM Quartermaster: The Nellie Deli, 1100 Bourbon St. , 529.1416 Tiramisu 55 Restaurant & Bar, 123 Carondelet, 581.3288

retail/shopping Baton Rouge, LA [225] JAMES & KYLE ANTIQUES, 3875 Government St. 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 LA MINA STERLING, 840 Royal St., 324.3423, laminasterling@gmail.com 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

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

tours New Orleans, LA [504] SOUTHERN COMFORT TOURS, 400.9270, southerncomforttours@yahoo.com STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ, Toulouse Street Dock, 568.1401, SteamboatNatchez.COM

theatres New Orleans, LA [504] LE PETIT THEATRE DU VIEUX CARRE, 616 St. Peter, 522.2081 MAHALIA JACKSON THEATRE OF PERFORMING ARTS, 801 N. Rampart, Armstrong Park, 525.1052, mahaliajacksontheater.com

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

drag 101

by Ida Slapter E-mail: ida_slapter00@yahoo.com

SD Down, Halloween Next

W

ell, “Hello again,” my little drags and dragsters, and “Thank God,” Southern Decadence is over. It was my first one you know, and I thought I was too old to be a “virgin” at anything anymore, but let me tell you it always feels good, when it’s the first time! And as in real life, I felt my way around the situation and it was both frightening and titillating and quite arousing at the same time. It almost made me feel like a young girl again, I think. I don’t remember that far back, as it was just before the Stone Age, I think !?!

I will say one thing, that it was quite a busy calendar of events, and I can say that some of you must have read my last column, as I saw a lot of the “girls” all decked out and with pantyhose on too. And even some of the “showgirls” went all the way

with hips and body stockings and everything, it brought a tear to my eye. Then there are always a few that will not give in and just go out, hairy legs and all, not to mention hairy arms and backs. (Can you spell - NAIR). But, I guess in this situation, being that it’s supposed to be Decadence, you get to go with the flow, this time. Guess I’ll have to let it slip for this and for Halloween, but only for those two events, after that there is no excuse. Do you hear me???

After my last column came out, I am happy to say that apparently, one of the leading publications must have been snooping, and they also wrote about the very same thing that I had taken you all to task about. So if you happened to read Woman’s World, you can get at any drugstore or grocery, the September 14 edi[continued on 41]

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snap paparazzi

NO/AIDS Task Force Board Co-Chair Wayne Christenberry, Exe. Dir. Noel Twilbeck & Glen Kahrman at the Forum For Equality’s 11th Acclaim Awards

Jared & Meredith at the 11th Acclaim Awards

Becky Allen & Troi Bechet at Harry’s birthday party

NO/AIDS Task Force Mkt. Coor. TJ Rogers & Community Health Award recipient Heidi Nagele Chapman at the Forum’s 11th Acclaim Awards

Chad & Lyndsey at the Forum’s 11th Acclaim Awards Miss Viola at Harry’s birthday party

Fabulous bartender at Winky’s for Art For Arts Sake

The Johns at the Forum for Equality’s 11th Acclaim Awards

Harry Mayronne (r) & his mother Phyllis celebrate at his birthday party

Ernesto & Craig at Art For Arts Sake

Gala Entertainer Anais St. John & Harry Mayronne at the Forum’s 11th Acclaim Awards

Kat & Chris Wecklein at Harry’s birthday party

Craig with Contessa Christine Breaux at Art For Arts Sake

Nick, Elizabeth & Tyler at Art For Arts Sake

Nadja & Lauren at Art For Arts Sake

Aimee, Jennifer, Susan & Stephanie celebrate at the Forum’s 11th Acclaim Awards

Gabriel & fellow birthday boy Brad at Harry’s birthday party

House of Lounge Burlesque Dancer Window model for Art For Arts Sake

Ambush columnist Brian Sands demonstrates what will happen to him if he does not make his deadlines at Art For Arts Sake

40 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

Gaydar Highlights ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Tony Leggio

Ambush columnist Tony Leggio wrestles alligator at Alligator Museum on Magazine for Art For Arts Sake

under the gaydar

by Tony Leggio E-mail: tonymgp@hotmail.com Photo by: Larry Graham, GrahamStudioOne.COM

11th Acclaim Awards Gala Presents A Night of Divas

O

n September 26, the Forum for Equality held the 11th annual Acclaim Awards at Harrah’s Casino Theatre. The Acclaim Award is given to individuals or organizations who are recognized for their service to Louisiana’s LGBT community. And what an evening this turned out to be, with the theme A Night of Divas how could you go wrong.

The night began with cocktails and a wonderful silent auction, then onto dinner.

Harrah’s did a wonderful job on all fronts from the food to the service and their support to the gay community in the city is always appreciated. But the event was all about the award winners and their contributions to making life better in Louisiana for the LGBT community.

I was honored to be asked to be a guest at one of my friend’s tables, who just happened to be an award recipient this year. Heidi Nagele Chapman, who is Director of Development for the NO/AIDS Task Force for the last nine years, received the Community Health Award. Surrounded by friends and colleagues, Heidi gave a moving tribute about her work in the gay community and the NO/AIDS Task Force’s constant effort to combat this disease.

There were very few dry eyes in the house as she recounted how she dealt with the

drag 101 ...from 39 tion, (with Oprah on the cover), on pages 8 and 9, you will see all the things that I had told you about and more. Some of the highlights were: “Create the illusion of slimmer legs with shaping tights, they’re made from stretchy, tightly woven material that gently compresses and sculpts your legs.” And as I said in the last column, pantyhose and tights were made to make your legs have that silky look that can’t be achieved without them. They’re made specifically for women, what more do you want? That should be a hint!

And while you happen to be browsing in the Woman’s World, you might want to check out the “Make-up” section also, it has more good info for you on what is “hip” today, and gives easy instructions on how to apply make-up. It’s the BIBLE, and all of you should take advantage of this golden book, it’s only $1.79, and it could make the difference of being a “true diva” or being just “duhhhhh”. Be true to yourself and look in the mirror, and take that extra 10 minutes to FINISH out that look that will make you the real “woman” you are trying to achieve. Nothing is ever done well, if you rush into it, and it takes: patience, time, and a true effort. Thankfully, I have had help all through the centuries, Cleopatra, Marie Antoinette, Mae West, and of course my dear sister, Dame Edna Everage, that cute little possum! Everybody needs a “Fairy Godmother” along the way.

Halloween is on the way, and coming very fast, so I hope you all have an idea

recent loss of a client of the Task Force.

Knowing how important the Task Force was to this person and many others like him, made me appreciate even more all the hard work the men and women of this organization do for our community.

Another friend of mine, Ricky Graham, received the Arts and Entertainment Award. Ricky has been a fixture in the New Orleans theatre community for many years. He was the artist who right after Katrina brought us the show I’m Still Here, Me, a moving tribute to our wonderful city.

This show proved to be a huge success and not to mention great therapy for all the locals who attended. I cannot think of anyone who is more deserving of this “prize.”

Rounding out the award winners was Michael G. Bagneris for Political Leader, James Wiggins for Political Activism and ACLU of Louisiana for the Chair’s Awards.

But the highlight of the evening was the expertly delivered keynote address by Acclaim Award Winner for Media Leonard Pitts Jr. Mr. Pitts’ credentials are too long to list, but I will try to do it justice and hit the highlights. Pitts joined The Miami Herald in 1991 as its pop music critic. Since 1994, he has penned a syndicated column of commentary on pop culture, social issues and family life. His book, Becoming Dad: Black Men and the Journey to Fatherhood, was released in May, 1999 and what you are going to do for a costume.

Hopefully, it will be nice weather and we will be able to see lots of scantily clad ghosts and goblins. After all the work I have had to have done, even though I’m not a young thing, I can at least show something, of course I should probably just stick to doing the old witch thing. I like Halloween as it’s the one time that you can really become something you’re not, and God knows that sums up my life, I am a man made woman, you know!?!

It’s the one time that you can just throw on something old out of the closet and still look good. Not to mention, just go to the drugstore and pick up some cheap make-up, and just have fun doing it all wrong. Just go wild! It’s OK, just for this one time, then it’s back to learning how to be glamorous, after all freaky is a Halloween thing, and not for all year round. Are you listening? But then there are some that don’t know that it isn’t Halloween every day.

There are so many places here to get some of the best costumes, wigs, and make-up, no one should have a problem being able to create a total look for whatever they want to be. I’m just shaking thinking about it, maybe if I start now I’ll be able to create the best witch ever! Everybody go shopping now so you won’t be left out at the last minute.

I expect to see some of the best looks ever, there is no excuse !!! Because you know what would happen if I saw someone all wrong? ...Ida Slapter

was reissued in paperback in 2006. In March of 2009, he published his first novel, Before I Forget, the story of Mo Johnson, one of the most popular R&B stars of the 1970s who among other things is battling the early onset of Alzheimer‘s disease.

Pitts was awarded the 2004 Pulitzer Prize for commentary. He was also a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 1992. In 2002, GLAAD Media awarded Pitts the Outstanding Newspaper Columnist award. And twice each week, millions of newspaper readers around the country are treated to his column. His speech was one of the best keynote addresses I had experienced in a long time. It was an eloquent, thought provoking address on the plight of the gay community today and how we can correlate it to the predicaments of many other oppressed groups in the past.

The evening was truly A Night of Divas with amazing entertainment provided by Anais St. John, Barbara Shorts, Troi Bechet, Charmaine Neville, Dorian Rush and Idella Johnson. If you are not a member of the Forum for Equality, join right away, they are working hard for the LGBT community as our voice in our political system. For more information on joining, go to www.ForumForEquality.COM.

Happy Birthday Harry Mayronne, Jr.

I

would like to also say happy birthday to a dear friend and another staple in the theatrical and cabaret communities in New Orleans, Harry Mayronne Jr. Harry celebrated his birthday on September 28 with a wonderful party at his house on Dauphine Street in the French Quarter. The party was a veritable who’s who of New Orleans’ theatre and music communities. Becky Allen, Mandy Zirkenbach, Troi Bechet, Chris Wecklein, Anais St. John and the Pfister Sisters were just some of the people present to help Harry blow out the candles on his three cakes, talk about a sweet tooth.

After all the cake cutting was done, guests were treated to an impromptu cabaret show with Harry at piano and his friends singing. Thank you Harry for inviting me to your birthday party and giving all your guests the ultimate present, the opportunity to experience this wonderfully eclectic mix of singers’ performance in the comfort of your living room. This is truly a night I will never forget.

Oktoberfest

I

t is October, so for those with German heritage know that this is your celebratory month. Oktoberfest events are observed around the globe and New Orleans was no exception. The Krewe of Petronius hosted their Oktoberfest extravaganza on Friday, October 2. I was asked to be a celebrity judge in the Stuffed Lederhosen Contest. Now this is definitely a first for me. King and Queen Petronius Arthur Alarcon and Freddy Guess rounded out the judges panel. If Freddy would have been in drag, we could have been the new Simon, Paula and Randy.

The show was co-emceed by Krewe Captain Bill as the beautiful Bootsie DeVille and Princesse Stephaney. The Fraulein Cabaret was hilarious with the three male contestants having to not only show how they can stuff a wild lederhosen, but also do their best chicken dance. Who knew the Germans started their own version of

line dancing all those years ago with this dance. Winning contestant Ray held up his coveted beer stein for all to see. The night’s entertainment was provided by many special guests from other krewes such as Miss Louisiana Leatherette Cathy Fox and King Cake Queen Tami Tarmac.

The best part of the evening was when Petronius’ diva, the Crown Princess Natasha was informed that Princesse Stephaney was wearing her same outfit. A tussle on the red carpet ensued, with jewelry and wigs flying, but the melee was over before the Ambush paparazzi arrived. For more information on more upcoming Petronius events, call 504.484.6045.

Art For Arts Sake

A

nother big event in the city’s art community happened on Octtober 3 with Art For Arts Sake.

This event happens the first Saturday in October as simultaneous art openings happen around the city’s arts districts, Royal, Julia and Magazine Streets. Art lovers from around the city meander up and down these streets enjoying wine, music and of course, great art.

My appreciation of the art weekend actually started on Friday night when my fiends and I went to an exhibit hosted by KK Projects in the middle of the hood between Music and Arts Streets on North Villere. After a night of art, we went down to see the sights on Bourbon Street and ended up at the Oz for their Band of Gold Party. Now the boys dancing at Oz are a different art form.

On Saturday, I went with my friends Laura Tennyson and Nick Nevares for all the art we could handle. We began our night at Three Ring Circus at 1638 Clio Street. If you have never been to this gallery before, check them out. They are more than a gallery. They host bands, comedy improvisational groups, theatrical experiences and even do British comedy television night. But on this Saturday, they showed a wonderful artist by the name of Matthew Kirscht, whose work is mesmerizing to say the least. And this exhibit is perfect for the month of October, since his works evoke his favorite holiday, Halloween.

After that exhibit, we were off to Magazine Street to see the sights. And the first few blocks of Magazine was where all the action was at. There was a DJ spinning great tunes for the entire block to enjoy. He was located center of the street near Winky’s and House of Lounge. House of Lounge also delighted guests to burlesque dancers in their windows and shows throughout the night. The Magazine Street Merchants Association provided a free shuttle that night to ferry people up and down the block to different art galleries further down.

Also, did any of you know there is an Alligator Museum on Magazine Street. It was open that night and kind of campy fun to look around in.

This is one of my preferred events to attend in the city, not only because it is a great people watching experience, but for all those in the gay community who are interested in meeting people outside the [continued on 43]

Gay New Orleans

GayNewOrleans.COM

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ambush

Nate behind the bar at Rawhide Skipper on the bar at The Corner Pocket

Carol slingin’ cocktails at Le Roundup

Persana Shoulders, Bonnie Bitch, GM Tommy Elias & Mr. Pix, the puppeteer at the fab Bonnie Bitch Show hosted at Oz

Oz Drag Survivor winner Shan’yia Ellis Narcisse, runner-up Sable Nicole Starr & MC Blanche Debris at the Survivor Finale Dancer Rhythm showing his stuff on the bar at The Corner Pocket

Trevor workin’ the Happy Hour crowd at The Double Play

Le Roundup’s Lady Hope showing her assets at the Madam Elysian Fields pageant

Drag Survivor Finale Judges Neil, Ashley & Tonya at Dance Bar of the Year Oz Tittie Toulouse bids farewell at her retirement from drag performance during FourPlay at JohnPaul’s

Calendar Boy Host Barry Bareass & DJ Joey Lopez at The Corner Pocket

Amazingly beautiful Philip at Napoleon’s Itch

Dancer Mikey is a real cutie on the bar at the Pocket

Brian welcomes you to the Phoenix

CW’s Bon Voyage Show & Party was a fab send off at Starlight By The Park

Oz Club Kids Brendon, party host Persana Shoulders & TJ for Oz’s Band of Gold blowout

Mr. USofA contestant Nathan Brooks & new Mr. USofA At Large Seymour Chilton at the Mr. USofA contest Rusty LaRoux hits the stage at Big Daddy’s for The Zoo Revue

Mr. Southwest USofA GQ & Tommie Ross at the Mr. USofA contest

Sisters, Sisters, who’s the pretty one, Opal Masters or Gizelle Bouvier

42 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM

It’s The Real Deal ~ New Orleans ~ Photos by Regina & Lee Adams-Mullen, Nathan Brooks, Gary Glitter, Tony Leggio

paparazzi

trodding the boards ...from 34 wise, and it was refreshing to see him play a character who was by turns raffish, slyly wise, and moderately inebriated; fine as he’s been at interpreting Wilson’s holy fools, I was ready to see him take on a different challenge.

The revelatory performance, though, was Stephfon Guidry’s Boy Willie. Last seen as a drag queen in Unplugged, Guidry has come a very long way since his mannered shtik in The Papaya Man two and half years ago. Having evolved a very natural stage presence, Guidry embodied Wilson’s life force with fervor and conviction. I look forward to seeing what fences this gem of an actor shall scale in the future.

Bourbon at the Border at the Marigny Theater

I

n Bourbon at the Border, Pearl Cleage provides her heroine with an absolutely devastating monolog about man’s inhumanity to man during the Freedom Summer of 1965 that Adella Gautier did full justice to.

The problem was it took six scenes of exposition, occasionally repetitive, often unnecessary, to get there.

Cleage writes pungent, lifelike dialog (more so for her female characters than her male ones), including a great passage about the role of blacks in a Woody Allen film, and is unafraid to paint a not very flattering portrait of a certain portion of Detroit’s black community circa 1995. You can feel Cleage, however, manipulating her dramatis personae and, ultimately, the whole lacks a requisite cogency.

Ed Bishop is to be admired for giving Bourbon at the Border its local premiere, and if I wasn’t entirely convinced that the

under the gaydar ...from 41 bar scene, this event is perfect for you.

Sweet ...Lesbian Travel

I

f you have been reading my columns, many of you should have figured out by now that I love to travel. It is one of my greatest passions.

And I am always looking for a great trip that I will remember for the rest of my life. Well, I have found an amazing trip for all the lesbians in the Ambush readership.

Sweet is the name of a company that specializes in lesbian travel. But to say it is just a travel company would not be doing this company justice. Sweet is not just the company name but also their mission.

According to the Sweet, more and more, women are looking to find meaning in the things they do and the things they spend their money on. They want to help magnify that meaning for their guests and find ways to have fun doing it. Sweet is about celebrating the accomplishments of our current and future guests year round.

They want to create a Sweet community fueled by their inspiring stories. From career changes to special anniversaries, from fitness successes to family additions, Sweet encourages and celebrates their guests in everything they do. While it’s incredible to be in a community of women for a week on vacation, we want to keep that feeling and that energy alive between departures.

effort was worth it, his fluid direction went a long way to overcome the script’s shortcomings. And though he could’ve given better shape to the various scenes’ endings, his final coup de théâtre was powerful.

It would be hard to imagine more natural actresses than Gautier and Latricia Huston, as her best friend, in Bourbon; their excellent performances, Gautier’s steadiness playing off of Huston’s piquancy, were a joy to watch. In the less well-defined role of Huston’s boyfriend, Roscoe C. Reddix, Jr. was very good. As much as it was a pleasure to hear the sonorous voice of Rick Jay as Gautier’s husband and a battle-scarred veteran of the Civil Rights era, this theater novice is not quite as comfortable on stage, yet, as his colleagues.

David Raphel’s sleek contemporary set with its stunning view of the bridge that crosses over to Canada may be the best yet seen at the Marigny Theater. I wish I could’ve said the same about the play itself.

Camelot at Rivertown Repertory Theatre

I

n 1993, Alan Jay Lerner’s son Michael rewrote the book of Camelot so that there’d be young and old versions of Arthur and Guenevere, portrayed by two different performers. Director Dane Rhodes decided to go with this version and power to him. One only wishes the results had been better.

On the plus side was Lerner & Loewe’s classic score; Richard Hutton as the older Arthur with his commanding presence and rich baritone especially fine in If Ever I Would Leave You; Chris Ward/ Eric Porter’s impressive unit set with its arching ramps that provided various playThat being said, get ready because the Crescent City is about to get Sweet.

They will be hosting a seven day fun-filled cruise in the Western Caribbean, November 8-15, 2009, as Sweet takes over the entire Norwegian Spirit. Their journey starts here in our own beloved New Orleans, where they will light up Bourbon Street with a huge party to launch their first cruise. You heard it right, this international company has chosen our wonderful city to launch their first cruise and for that, I would like to take a moment to thank the owners and founders of Sweet, Shannon Wentworth and Jen Rainin. Check out their website, their company and events are incredible.

Additionally to the cruise, they are offering a three-day pre-package allowing guests the opportunity to pitch in with the Katrina relief effort by day and enjoy New Orleans’ legendary clubs by night. Local ladies, Rubyfruit Jungle is the place to be this weekend. Once they board from New Orleans, the cruise will chart a course for the sunny, sleepy (until they get there) fishing village of Costa Maya, Mexico.

Designed for cruise travelers bent on relaxation, Costa Maya has a hammock with your name on it as well as a gigantic saltwater pool with a swim-up bar. Next will be Mayan ruins, colonial buildings and wildlife sanctuaries in bustling Belize City, Belize.

After Belize City, they will travel to Roatan, Honduras, where the beach is plentiful, the water is clear and the coral

ing areas and levels; Travis Acosta’s snippy Mordred who milked The Seven Deadly Virtues for all its nasty cynicism; Veronica Russell’s beautiful costumes; Earl Lennie’s atmospheric lighting; Daniel deShazo’s accomplished conducting/ musical directing; Veronica Belletto, all campy fun as the evil sorceress Morgana; the powerful soprano of Nancy Assaf as the older Guenevere; and a genuinely affecting ending.

On the minus side was Lerner’s talky book that doesn’t give actors much to work with; Andrea Watson who turned the young Guenevere into a fishwife with a small voice; Travis Acosta’s well-intentioned but bland young Arthur; the over-miked sound; Hutton’s occasional flubbing of his lines; confusing choreography in The Tournament (why didn’t Lancelot take part in it?) and a strange, period-inappropriate dance for If Ever I Would Leave You; klutzy dancers; Marshall Harris, who has appeared to good effect in such comic outings as Naked Boys Singing & The Rocky Horror Show, completely miscast as the romantic Lancelot; the zero sexual chemistry between Lancelot and the young Guenevere; and a generally lifeless first act.

At least the buffet by Pigeon Catering with its oyster Rockefeller soup, Cajun brisket, chicken pasta al fresco, garlic mashed potatoes, gourmet cookies, and “Death by Chocolate” brownies was yummy.

Taking a Chance on Love at Le Chat Noir

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n her recent fast-paced cabaret show, Taking a Chance on Love, Amy Alvarez told us, repeatedly, how she loves love songs. And when she offered a new interpretation of a classic or reefs are full of amazing creatures. Roatan is one of the best places in the world to scuba dive and snorkel. If you are not a big fan of getting wet, explore the depths in a submersible boat. Then they return back to Mexico as they dock in Cozumel, where the jungle hides ancient ruins and mystical cave formations draw travelers to Chac Tun Cavern. Whether you want to relax on the white sand beaches, enjoy a catamaran party cruise or peer at the brightly colored fishes from on top of the water or underwater, you’re sure to have a blast.

But the excursions are not the only thing that will heat up this boat. With four of the hottest DJs, parties by the legendary Club Skirts (makers of The Dinah Shore Weekend) and fantastic theme parties, it’s going to be an unbelievable week of music and dancing. And the entertainers on board for this event includes Suzanne Westenhoefer, Erin Foley, Jen Foster, Edie Carey, Kate McKinnon (The Big Gay Sketch Show), Gloria Bigelow, Sandra Valls, Natalia Zukerman, and Adrianne.

And if those entertainers are not enough, they have some special guests lined up which consist of actress and comedian Carlease, Natalie Garcia and Meghan Hall from AfterEllen’s Nat & Meg’s Sweet Adventures, Cathy DeBuono & Jill Bennett from We Have to Stop Now, Comedian Amy Tee, CherryBomb from AfterEllen, Lipstick & Dipstick from Curve, Comedian Chantal Carrere and Reality TV Personality Dani Campbell. Ladies, this has to be one of the most impressive

went outside of the great American songbook to present a new or little known work, she was mesmerizing.

She and musical director Jefferson Turner brought something worthy and different to I’ve Got You Under My Skin by slowing down the tempo to a crawl; there was no doubt that Alvarez meant every word that she said. She likewise deeply connected with They Say It’s Wonderful from Annie Get Your Gun and Make The Man Love Me from A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.

In New Words she created a true dialog with her newborn child while she nailed the comic cuteness in You Should Have Told Me. The medley of song titles from So Long 174th Street was a manic delight. And she made The Way You Look Tonight touching in its simplicity.

But otherwise, one senses Alvarez goes on autopilot, content to let her lovely, crystal clear soprano and perfect diction carry her along. There’s nothing wrong with spending an hour or so with Alvarez— she’s one of the nicest people in this town and her lovely, down-to-earth personality shines through. But an emotional/narrative sameness pervaded too much of Taking a Chance on Love.

Turner and Director Banu Gibson certainly must share some of the blame for this. While a significant improvement over her last outing, Alvarez needs stronger direction and better, wittier dialog in order to fulfill her bounteous potential.

Amy Alvarez has every right to sing classic songs beautifully. We have every right to expect more from her talents.

Reach the Market

Best Distribution Points

Ambush 504.522.8049 marsha@ripandmarsha.com line-up of celebrities in the lesbian community that I have seen in a long time.

But in addition to the entertainment and the ports of call, this cruise offers much more. They have networking and empowerment seminars, sweet sweat boot camps with celebrity fitness guru Shawnee Harkins from Dr. Phil’s Weight Loss Race, and wedding packages for those who want to get hitched at sea. The Norwegian Spirit cruise ship is literally a floating island with first-class amenities.

She offers Freestyle Cruising with the flexibility of eleven restaurants, seven bars and lounges, multiple entertainment venues, two pools, a sports deck, casino, spa and a variety of spacious public rooms.

With NCL’s Freestyle Cruising, your choices are endless. Take a dip in the pool, pamper yourself in the spa with a mani-pedi, roll some dice in the casino, shoot some hoops, relax with a hot stone massage or try your luck at bingo. Norwegian Spirit’s accommodations give you what you need to vacation your way. There’s something for everyone including spacious suites and nearly 600 ocean view staterooms (most with private balconies).

For more information on this amazing cruise, go to http://discoversweet.com or call 877.793.3830.

Have an event or have something of interest to the LGBT community, feel free to send press releases or information to tonymgp@hotmail.com.

GayMardiGras.COM • GayEasterParade.COM • GayNewOrleans.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • 43

44 • The Official Mag: AmbushMag.COM • October 13-26, 2009 • Official Southern Decadence Guide • SouthernDecadence.COM